Keep it Weird, Portland!

August 5-9, 2021

 

After a tearful departure from Salt Lake City, we puddle jumped our way to the Oregon coast.  Along the way, we spent a couple of nights at Lake Walcott State Park (not our favorite state park; however, it was in the right place at the right time and served the purpose of breaking up the drive).  Our next stop was at Boise, and then to Boardman Marina and RV Park.  This campground was located along the banks of the Columbia River.  There was a lovely river walk along the Columbia River offering beautiful views.  The trail led into town where we found Burnt Field Brewing!!  The brewery in located in what once had been a home. The lawn was filled with picnic tables. creating an environment that  reminded me of going to high school graduation parties!  It certainly was a setting that made you comfortable and feel welcome and at home!  

Finally, for our final puddle jump, we made it to Portland!  Our trip from Boardman to Portland followed the Columbia and offered stunning scenery!  Driving through the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area was a gift in itself!  We had been warned by other campers along our journey that Portland was a “mess” and not safe to go into so we had decided to stick to the parks and trails outside of Portland for our two days there.  However, once we arrived, we couldn’t resist going into Portland and I’m so glad we did!  It’s funny because I’m reading a book on the Oregon Trail and there are stories of people facing difficult situations and deciding it best to give up and turn around.  As they encountered emigrants who were headed west, they told them horrific tales of their own experiences and convinced several others to turn around themselves.  As the gossip spread, the tales grew more and more horrific.  I’m not saying that people were not justified in turning around and that they did not have a difficult time (one in ten died!) but rather, just a general statement on fear mongering.  As we wandered around downtown Portland’s Saturday Market, we felt very safe and had a delightful afternoon.  We certainly saw a large number of homeless individuals, but I haven’t been to a city yet that doesn’t struggle with homelessness. 

 

Our first trip into Portland took us to the "Saturday Market".  It actually runs on Saturday and Sunday.  As with most markets, this market abounded with arts and foods!  

After leaving the market, we walked through China Town and spent tranquil time meandering the Chinese Garden.  It was a delight for all our senses.  Visually, the colors were beautiful, the water features provided calming sounds, the flowers treated us to fragrant treats, and the tea house provided a delicious choice of teas.  Don’t miss this little spot if you are in town!

We left the garden in time to make it to Saturday mass St. Henry’s.  We typically go to mass on Sunday mornings; however, we had purchased 9:00am tickets to go to Multnomah Falls Sunday.  Apparently, due to popularity, parking has gotten to be a problem so they sell a limited number of tickets (they cost $1.00) for each hour.  We chose to go the earliest time you could go, hoping to be there at the least crowded time.  Even being outdoors, this Delta Variant has us concerned.  The falls were beautiful and offered a trail taking us to the tip top of them!  Honestly, the view of the falls was MUCH better from below; however, the view of the Columbia valley was stunning from the heights the trail took us to!  Starting our Sunday at this scenic gift from God was amazing!

 

Following our trip to the falls, we went back into Portland where we explored the Nob Hill area which offers unique boutiques and shops.  Our favorite shop was Salt and Straw where I had a dip of their Goat Cheese Marionberry Habanero ice-cream.  It sounded just weird enough for me to have to try it!  Yes, Portland’s motto is “Keep it weird”, and they certainly do!  It may sound weird but, believe me, it was delicious!! Quite the party for my taste buds!

 

Next, we headed to Washington Park where we strolled their Japanese Garden.  The Japanese Garden was much larger than the Chinese Garden.  I enjoyed both strolls; however, if you only have time for one, I’d recommend the Chinese Garden.  

 

Also located in Washington Park is the International Rose Test Garden.  Portland is the city of roses and you see them in everyone’s lawn.  The garden in the park is unreal!   I have no idea how many gardeners they have caring for this delight!  This was quite the party for my eyes and nose!

 

Evening was coming and it was time for dinner, so we headed to Portland’s Pearl District, known as the place to find craft beer.   We soon found ourselves at Deshutes Brewery and wrapped up our Portland experience with a Black Butte XXX Imperial Porter and a tasty plate of vegetable pasta.  Yummy!

A fitting end to our visit into Portland was coming back to our camper and finding a random bouquet of roses on our picnic table!  I can only guess a camper pulling out, had left them for us to enjoy.  People are great and Portland is not an exception!