Backroads

There is a gem of a vacation rental in Bend. It is called The Bonus Room and it is located on a working horse farm about 15 minutes from downtown.

We liked it so much because it gave us a combination experience. The farm itself was relaxing and unique (we could have stayed there for a real vacation) but we of course also opted for some of Bend's other outdoor activities. The Bonus Room is a totally self contained private apartment on the farm.

In addition to the horses, their are also the cutest goats (miniature nubians I think), chickens and two dogs. If someone had kids this would be ideal.

This place is absolutely unique and super affordable. The owners/hosts live on the farm and will certainly give you a tour if you like but you don't feel like you are in their space.

I recommend The Bonus Room without hesitation. Their website is www.thebonusroom.net.

If you want to get away from the crowds and see wonderful scenery this is it! Steens Mountain is fault block mount. Heading east from Frenchglen you pass the historic site of Peter French's "P" Ranch. Peter was a notorious cattle baron late 1800s. Driving east is a gentle slope. As you go you higher you pass thru different climate zones starting with high desert ending with Alpine. Up at the top you see where glaciers carved valleys and you see cirque lakes. You can fish at one. I was there one year in July and there was snow banks. When you get way to the top you park and walk up the last half mile to a weather station. It is clean & cool. Hear at the very top you look down a mile straight down to the the Alvord Desert. If you have a pick up or high clearance rig you can drive down the South route called the Roosters Comb. It is very rough. At the bottom is the Blitzen Crossing a park and stream. Follow the road about 10 miles and come out in Fields, Oregon. Have a milk shake! Frenchglen is about 10 miles north of Fields. Nearby visit the round barn. Ask directions in Frenchglen. It is neat and there is a museum too.

After traveling the scenic byway of Route 242, I hit Sisters around noon with an appetite. I did not do any research on places to eat, but saw a sign for Angeline's Bakery and thought I would give it a try.

Very cozy interior, with a few tables, and friendly staff. It had the feel of a favorite local eatery.

I decided to get my lunch to go to enjoy the sunshine. After reviewing the menu board, I decided on the Turkey Bagel Sandwich on the garlic/onion bagel with spicy spread (you get chips with it).

I really enjoy the delicious sandwich, which was big and filling enough to split. Fresh and the spicy spread did have some "zip" to it.

When I returned to work and was reviewing my trip, I mentioned that I had lunch at Angeline's, a co-worker also had good reviews of the eatery.

After reviewing the website (http://www.angelinesbakery.com), I wish I was there in the morning to try some of the freshly baked muffins, maybe next time!