Portland Poncho: June 2009

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Thanks, Lila!

Lila sent an early birthday gift. Thank you for the beautiful key chain. It's already being put to use!

Monday, June 29, 2009

We undertook our first Washington State hike on Sunday. Perfect hiking weather starts with a brisk, overcast morning and ends with a sunny afternoon. Wind Mountain was our destination and it included a 1,100 foot elevation climb.

We couldn't help but stop and capture a shot of the Columbia Gorge. In the distance, you can see the sun trying to break through.

Zoe insisted on a photo.

Wind Mountain

The hike up to Wind Mountain was peaceful and included lots of switchbacks and some huffing and puffing, but the views were worth the effort.

By the time we reached the top, the sun came out.

They don't call it Wind Mountain for nothing.

If you look carefully, you too can see that the wind blowing through Matt's hair.

Demonstrating a way to combat the acrophobia.

Or not.

We encountered many petite wild flowers along the trail.

Afterwards we headed to Hood River, on the other side of the Columbia Gorge, to feed our Cherry and Raspberry addictions.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

McMenamins Edgefield

Trying to get the most of the summer and daylight hours, we roamed McMenamins' Edgefield grounds in Troutdale, Oregon. Edgefield is quick getaway for city folks and its grounds consists of a soaking tub, golf course, vineyard, tasting room, glass and pottery galleries and an artfully restored hotel.

Matt enjoyed the gardens.

Really enjoyed the gardens.

McMenamins Edgefield

2126 SW Halsey St.

Troutdale, OR 97060

Saturday, June 6, 2009

St. John's Bridge

Since our move last year, we're still exploring Portland. One trip took us to North Portland, under St. John's Bridge. Arguably the bridge to get the most lookers, St. John's Bridge is a steel suspension bridge finished in 1931 and painted pale green to blend with Bridgecity's tree laden landscape.

St. John's Bridge spans over the Willamette River.