Gary and Betsy Johnson wanted something special for their 40th wedding anniversary, so they planned a slumber party with their children and grandchildren in a treehouse. Not just any old treehouse though. They visited Oregon’s Cave Junction and stayed at Out’N’About, which has 36 acres next to the Siskiyou National Forest.
“We had family time with no electronics or TV,” Betsy said. “We could zipline, hula hoop, or horseback ride.” She delighted seeing her family scamper back and forth across the suspension bridges during daily activities and roast marshmallows for s’mores at night.
“A fresh piney scent greeted us with all-around views of mountain tops,” she added. Family members traveled across several states to celebrate the special occasion for Gary and Betsy.
Through his career as a commercial pilot, Gary logged in many miles before retiring. Now he and Betsy like to adventure with family and be together as much as possible. The couple also volunteers with NOMAD, a group through the Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church that utilizes retirees in their own RVs to render aid in distressed areas after first-responders secure the scene.
Gary and Betsy have learned to be at home wherever they are, and they realize God is with them in all their travels. They see God’s hand at work in the beauty of His creation such as the magnificent redwoods in California, which they also introduced the grandchildren to. “Seeing those awesome trees makes you realize what a mighty God we serve,” Betsy said.
Out’ N’About Treesort’s treehouses for family vacations in Cave Junction, Oregon
“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Psalm 78:4 NIV).
Even if a family can’t travel far for a trip, moments to cherish are right in the back yard or nearby park where children can see God’s handiwork. Picnics are a plus!
**If you would like to find out more about Out’N’About Treesort, click here.
**If you would like to find out more about NOMADS mission work through Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church, click here.
