Well, we couldn't take the whole week off work, so we decided to make at
least one day an educational family outing. We were torn between the Oregon
Zoo or OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry), which was having an
exhibit for kids called "Animal Grossology". Tough choice....

Unfortunately, after several dry months, the skies decided to grace us with
lots of rain this week, so we ended up at OMSI. The good thing is that I
forgot that in addition to regular science exhibits they have a retired
submarine docked outside in the river. We bought tour tickets and learned a
lot about life aboard a submarine. The tour was given by a retired Navy
submariner and it was so cool!

Check the link for more info. and a virtual tour. I only wish the virtual
tour included the crew's quarters, such as they are. The best
accommodations, aside from the captain's, are the 3 open bunks atop the
torpedoes. They are the only ones that any sailor over 6' 2" tall could
dream of being comfortable in and the only ones without the bottom of the
overheard bunk right on top of your face.LOL

http://www.omsi.edu/visit/submarine/

We did end up spending several hours in the museum, which is very hands-on
and lots of fun for kids and adults, too. Brett and Rachel both fell asleep
in the car on the way home and we'll all be going to bed early tonight.
We'll make it to the zoo later this year, I'm sure.

Kelly C.;o)