Portland Marathon 2013

We happened to be at our place the weekend of the Portland Marathon in September. We were awakened by the sound of cheering, so we dressed quickly and went outside to investigate.

Even though we didn't know anyone running this year, we'd heard that lots of people just line up on the course to cheer people on. So we found a fun group in the neighborhood who were playing loud music and cheering loudly for the runners as they passed by.

Since the runners have their names on the front of their official badges, it was easy to call out their name as you cheered! "Way to go, Cheri"  "Keep it up, Stewart!" It was fun to see them smile through their panting. A fun way to watch the marathon.

Salt & Straw Ice Cream Frenzy

Up the street from us is the locally famous gourmet ice cream shop, Salt & Straw. Since it opened earlier this year, I have watched the never-ending line out the door and around the block as I walk past. Portland people are going crazy for Salt & Straw! Even though it's local, this is a "destination" ice cream shop - people from all over the Portland area come to brave the line to get a taste.

I've only braved the long line one time with visiting friends. This is the list of flavors which changes seasonally. The staff cheerfully passes out samples for you to try before ordering. The ice cream IS good - full-fat, flavorful, creamy, and rich. Between the calories I don't need and the wait in line (it took us 45 minutes!) I won't be visiting often.

The good news is that a new location for Salt & Straw just opened up in Southeast Portland. That will help shorten our Northwest lines.

City Bikes!

We purchased a couple of bikes to leave at the condo for short trips around the neighborhood...to the store, to farmer's market, to a cafe or brewery. Called "City Bikes", these are a hybrid between a road bike and a cruiser type. Sitting up right you can see the traffic, and a few gears to navigate the small hills. We both purchased Felt Bikes - Cafe 7's. As you can see, my husband is quite tall! I've ordered a pannier to use to haul cargo on the back of mine. These bikes are awaiting a reserved spot in our building's garage.

Little Libraries!

When I was out for a walk in my neighborhood one day, I spotted this and had to stop. What? A "Little Library" just planted along the sidewalk. Someone built a charming little box (a bit larger than a mail box) and stocked it with books to share. What a generous and genius idea!

As you can see, it states "Please take a book if you see one you like, and leave a book when you have one to share." No signing a card. I love the level of trust in the goodwill of people to be able to set this up. I intend to go back one day and take a book, and leave one to share.

Don't you wish that more people in the world would do this? Maybe you could be the first in your neighborhood.

Back to Portland

After 28 years living elsewhere, I have returned, at least part-time. Not only a return to Portland, Oregon, but also to my old stomping ground neighborhood of Northwest District, when I was a young adult fresh out of college, working in NW Portland. I hoped to return someday, and now we have.

My goal in this blog is just to have a place to share little tidbits and photos about what I love in Portland. When I'm here I'm always inspired to snap photos...walking down the sidewalk I spot all kinds of beauty in the city.

We love exploring the city and discovering restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops in our own neighborhood, in nearby Pearl and downtown, and greater Portland as well. This is where I will share those photos and discoveries.

It's the little everyday joys that make for a sweet life. And I'm glad that I get to build that sweet life again in Portland. I hope you enjoy sharing my city adventures!