by Charlotte on August 21, 2011
“Start this run from Saltzman Road off the St. Helens highway, U.S. 30. The trailhead is a hike up from the parking area. Take the trail that heads south. The Maple Trail runs gently uphill a couple of miles before crossing Leif Erickson. This route can be turned into a loop, or run as an out-and-speedy-back. This is simply a beautiful run, through big old maples that open to the sky after they shed their leaves. The farther you move from Washington Park, the better the Forest Park trails hold up to fall traffic. This section of the Maple Trail rarely develops bogs, and its surface remains firm even after drenching showers. Even so, the trails in Forest Park come with knobby roots hidden by leaves and slick slopes. Be aware of where you place your feet.
Good maps and info on Forest Park trails are available in “One City’s Wilderness” by Marcy Cottrell Houle, available at bookstores and the Oregon Historical Society; and “Hiking and Running Guide to Forest Park,” a handy 10-map set by the Friends of Forest Park. The guide is available at local outdoors stores and bookstores, or for $21.20 through the Friends, P.O. Box 10934, Portland OR 97296.”
Source: Oregon Live
The trail starts on NW Saltzman Road
It quickly turns into a beautiful thick forest around a narrow trail
View from the top facing Northeast
The trail was blocked by a fallen tree. Mulder was happy to jump over it.
We took the Leif Erickson route on the way back.
A view of North Portland
by Charlotte on July 31, 2011
We have never tried camping with Mulder so we chose a park that is close by for his first camping trip. We had a great time exploring the area. Unfortunately he did not stay quiet during the night. He barked at every sign of movement or noise. We finally ended up leaving the park at 5am to go home. I think if we had a more remote location, he will do better.
The park had a nice view of the valley and the hills
The town of Vernonia was retro cool
Lunch at the Blue House Cafe was yummy!
Mediterranean inspired desserts
At the local park in Vernonia
They had a fenced dog park!
Mulder checking out our home for the night
They had nice hiking trails
by Charlotte on July 16, 2011
Better late than never. Summer arrived late this season but our garden is finally in full swing.
Yummy raspberries. We have four different kinds.
Blueberries are next.
Peppers are slow but with warmer weather, they should be blooming soon.
Pumpkins are getting ready for a fall harvest.
Sweet peas. We made a tasty Thai Red Curry with them. Excellent flavor!
How is your garden doing this year?
by Charlotte on July 11, 2011
REI holds an annual paddle demo where you get to try out several types of equipment for FREE. They make it really easy as you can just walk in to register and they provide everything you need such as life jackets, sandals, kayaks, and paddles. This year it was held on July 10th at Vancouver Lake. We had a great time and maybe even get into kayaking someday.
Kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddles came in all shapes and sizes. Just pick as many as you want!
This one was light and easy to maneuver.
The obligatory self-portrait.
Marcel was ready to buy this one.
Then I understood why. It was very stable and easy to use plus it had the open top which felt more comfortable.
Marcel did better on the paddle board this time…
Even canines joined in the fun.
The mountain was out that day
After a day of kayaking, we went to Mississippi for a late lunch at little big burger.
Veggie burger with chévre and truffle fries. Yum!
by Charlotte on July 8, 2011
After a week long trip to Las Vegas with my family, I was glad to be home. Marcel and I hit a couple of new foodie spots on the way home from the airport.
Townshend’s Tea on NE Alberta
My favorite Rooibos tea and Chai for Marcel
The original Schnitzelwich from Tábor
Szekely Goulash
Cookie
We highly recommend both Townshend’s Tea and Tabor.