Sight seeing, Strawberries and Bingen...

We recently had the honor of volunteering for the First Descents Camp and we got spent some time in the Hood River, Or. area.  We actually stayed in Bingen, WA which I though was pronounced differently than it is.  The locals call it Binge-n, like they have been binging on the booze a little too long.
Day 1-6 from the First Descents Camp #1 can be seen on our gallery website: www.chrisohta.zenfolio.com

Here are some glimpses of Bingen, Goldendale, Mt. Hood and an organic fruit farm just outside of Hood River.

First Descents - White Salmon Day 2

Day 2 was their first real day in kayaks.  The weather could have been better but it also could have been worse. We lucked out and got access to the swimming pool in Goldendale for our first wet exit and T-rescue session which was really nice for everyone.  Then it was to the lake for some paddling fun and some kayak polo.  The campers did so well and they held their own with the instructors in the games of kayak polo.  They were all such "Robstars" and it was a total "Robstar" day.

At the start of the day, we had been together for less than 24 hours but you could already feel the special bond of the FD family.

The Day 2 gallery can be seen here: http://chrisohta.zenfolio.com/p7315930

First Descents - White Salmon Day 1

Heidi and I recently were inspired by our friend, Tobin Dailey, and had the pleasure of volunteering for First Descents Camp.  First Descents is a kayaking and climbing camp for young adults with cancer, www.firstdescents.org.

We did not know exactly what to expect when we signed on but we knew in our hearts it was going to be very special.  Little did we know that we were going to be witness to and be a part of one of the most special weeks in our lives.  This camp provides an opportunity for cancer survivors to let go and to share themselves in loving, supportive and understanding atmosphere while also learning to kayak.  Many times throughout the week, we all stepped out of our comfort zones but we were surrounded by the FD family that had our backs no matter what. First Descents brings strangers together and creates a family by the end of the week.

This was absolutely one of the most incredible experiences of our lives and we hope to be a part of First Descents forever.  Thank you First Descents for all that you do and thank you to our new FD family!!!  You have touched our hearts, warmed our souls and given us more than words can explain.  We love you all and will always be here for you!!!

Here are some of the faces of our new FD family and the Day 1 gallery can be seen here: http://chrisohta.zenfolio.com/p138991315