What Works for Me

In December of this year, we will have lived in Oregon for two years. We have done some exploring, but have spent most of our time still settling in. Planting plants is recreational for us and checking out different kinds of plants that are unfamiliar to us, is a treat. We have some new Bee residents now, and they appear to be doing well. I just have one bit of advice for you about bees, don’t let one get stuck in your hair. It has happened to me twice and the lesson was, always pull your hair back or wear a hat. Now, I don’t normally get that close to the bee’s and they do leave us alone, but I was assisting the Bee keeper and he just jumps right in there without any of that silly protective covering..Lol!  I really appreciate the look of a small quaint towns, but I find driving through Portland kind of fascinating. I like observing the old brick buildings, admiring the charm of older homes, with yards of lush greenery, and all of the great colors coming from Rhododendron’s, Clematis’s, Azalea’s and more. On a recent visit to Portland I had an opportunity to walk through a neighborhood while my husband went to shop at a Bee supply store.

None of the homes in this area are alike

Pretty Wisteria

A Rose garden

While on our way to locate a bakery we had passed, we ventured into a local farmer’s market. As I looked around I discovered some greeting cards for sale. I was very much attracted to the artist, Mason Parkers style of watercolor. They have that charm I like and I see that he will have some 2016 calendars for sale in the near future. I’ll be first in line..

City Meanderings

What a cool building!

I was trying to duck raindrops..

Fire escapes..

Rain in the City

We had to go back to Portland again. We have not learned to have an umbrella in the car with us at all times. We have a few things to learn about life in Oregon. Anyway, I have a few in the car photos to share. We did locate a place to park our car. It was worth the amount we paid to leave it in one place.

Like a Sponge

On Tuesday my husband had a morning appointment at the Portland, Veterans hospital. Other than driving by Portland we had not visited the city. While Mr.G, went to the various departments, I went outside to try to locate an area where I could get a decent view of Portland. It would have been easier to just go up a few flights, via the elevator, but I chose to brave the cold and wind and go outside. Because of my small town upbringing I get enthused about seeing new sights. I think I mentioned that in yesterday’s post. I absorb the scenery, sights and colors, kind of like a sponge. For my newer readers, I often take photographs while my husband is driving. Reason being is that I don’t want to miss anything interesting. As we drove up to the hospital I noticed water and I got so excited. The rode was windy and there were no full views because of all the trees. By the time we got to the hospital, I was eager to start exploring. I could overwhelm you with what I saw, so instead, I will keep my composure and dole out the photos a few at a time..

Mt St Helens in the background