It started out to be a return trip to Crater Lake. Ashton and I had been there in 1988 staying at the old Lodge. It was the year before the Lodge was shut down because it was so unstable and there was concern that the building would just fall down on its own. Indeed the Lodge looked like it needed to be cleaned and burned. What the Lodge lacked in amenities in those days was more then made up by the incredible beauty of the place and a fine staff of young men and women that invited us to their Halloween Party. Because the Lodge is open for a short season they have staff only Holidays celebrations. We happened to be there in August for Halloween. It was really an honor to be included and we had a wonderful time. We also lucked out and had a room that overlooked the lake. Though it lacked a tub or shower it had a private toilet and sink and Ashton was able to make a video recording of the sun rise over the lake. (more…)