There’s something magical about the intersection of mentorship, family, and new adventures. Last week, Katie, our two kids, and I experienced all three during our first Oregon Coast family travel, hosted by one of the most influential figures from my Rice University days.
The Professor Who Changed Everything
My host wasn’t just any professor—he was one of my favorite computer engineering instructors at Rice and is a multi-degreed Rice alum himself (as is his wife). Beyond his technical expertise, he profoundly shaped my life in an unexpected way: he introduced me to wine with the unforgettable declaration, “Taste that? That’s French dirt!” That moment sparked a lifelong appreciation that extends far beyond the glass.
Today, he serves as both an investor in and advisor to DexMat, demonstrating the enduring power of academic relationships. His impact on our company extends beyond capital: he helped us recruit our incredible Chief of Staff, proving that great mentors continue giving long after graduation.
Pacific Northwest Hospitality
For years, he and his wife had been encouraging us to visit their house in Neskowin on the Oregon Coast. With hectic schedules and young children, the invitation always seemed just out of reach. Finally, the stars aligned for a perfect family getaway.
This marked my second visit to Oregon—my first trip took me only inland, leaving the legendary coastline unexplored. This time, we’d experience the full Pacific Northwest treatment.
Donuts and Departures
Our adventure began at the airport with a delightful discovery: Blue Star Donuts, the gourmet donut shop I remembered fondly from my previous Oregon visit, now had an airport location! We grabbed a box containing one of each variety for our two-hour drive to the coast—the perfect fuel for a family road trip.
Beach Days and Creek Adventures
Arriving Monday afternoon, we immediately made our way to the beach, where Hawk Creek empties into the Pacific. The creek provided the perfect introduction to Oregon’s coastline for our young explorers—gentler than the ocean waves yet still magical. There, we encountered two of the coast’s iconic landmarks: Proposal Rock and the Ghost Forest, natural monuments that speak to both romance and the raw power of nature.
Tuesday morning brought us to a different stretch of beach, where I enjoyed a solo run while our kids collected shells and sand dollars—treasures that would rival any pirate’s hoard. Speaking of pirates, I couldn’t help but reflect on perfect timing: we were visiting during the 40th anniversary year of The Goonies, which famously took place on this very Oregon Coast in Astoria. The adventure-seeking spirit of that classic film felt tangible here.
Coincidentally, I had recently backed the Life After The Goonies documentary—a passion project celebrating the film’s enduring legacy. Being here on the actual coast where Mikey, Data, and the gang searched for One-Eyed Willy’s treasure added an extra layer of magic to our own family adventure. “HEY, YOU GU-UYS!”
Connections and Generations
Tuesday afternoon delivered an unexpected reunion when my college roommate—who happens to be our hosts’ nephew—arrived with his kids. Multiple generations and decades of friendship converged on this beautiful beach, creating the kind of spontaneous joy that defines the best vacations.
Our evening adventure took us to a brewpub in Pacific City for dinner, followed by an ambitious climb up a massive 400-meter-tall sand dune near Haystack Rock. The steep ascent tested my stamina, but the panoramic views justified every challenging step.
Pacific Northwest Perfection
Wednesday we embraced the region’s signature experience: a lush forest hike surrounded by towering trees and verdant greenery. This felt quintessentially Pacific Northwest—the kind of environment that reminds you why this region inspires such fierce loyalty among its residents.
Our afternoon featured ice cream at Nestucca Bay Creamery (because what’s a family vacation without strategic dessert stops?) before one final creek session. The kids’ laughter echoing off the water provided the perfect soundtrack to our last full day.
Wine and Wisdom
True to form, my wine-introducing mentor ensured we experienced exceptional bottles throughout our stay. The quality reflected his discerning palate—the same attention to detail that made him such an inspiring professor and now makes him such a valuable advisor.
Airport Excellence
Thursday’s departure gave us a chance to tarry at Portland International Airport (PDX), which exceeded all expectations. The highlight was discovering the Tillamook playground in Concourse E—a 608-square-foot interactive play area featuring a life-sized flying “Yum Bus” that doubles as a slide. Tillamook, the cheese brand we love, had created this thoughtful space for traveling families. Our kids burned energy while we enjoyed Tillamook ice cream, proving that great brands understand their customers’ real needs.
Lessons from the Coast
This trip reinforced several truths about meaningful relationships and experiences. Great mentors continue shaping your life long after formal education ends. The best adventures happen when you finally accept those long-standing invitations. Family travel, while challenging, creates irreplaceable memories. And sometimes the most impactful people in your life are those who share not just knowledge, but also “French dirt” in a glass!
The Oregon Coast delivered everything promised: dramatic landscapes, family bonding, professional relationships deepened, and enough natural beauty to fuel months of inspiration. Most importantly, it reminded us that the most valuable investments aren’t financial; they’re the time we spend with people who’ve shaped who we are and who we’re becoming.
What mentors have had an outsized impact on your life? How do you maintain those relationships as they evolve from academic to professional to personal? Share your stories—I’d love to hear about the professors, advisors, and guides who’ve shaped your journey.
Just lovely!