2 Chicas are Coming Up Smelling Like Roses
Look, there's Mount Hood! Chica 2 exclaims, "what do you mean we're flying over the hood?" No, no, no! The iconic Mount Hood with a smoky haze kissing the very top peak, stood proud and welcoming as we lowered toward the runway of Portland International Airport. Chica 1 was ecstatic!
This trip has been a long time coming. Portland is home to the International Rose Test Garden; which is why Portland is also known as the City of Roses! New roses, old roses, heirloom roses, roses in development, you name it, they grow it. I want to hurry, get the rental car, rush over to the garden, and then, ironically, slow down enough to smell a few. But before we leave the airport, we stop at the Portland Visitor's Bureau, which is conveniently located near baggage claim. We get a few recommendations, maps, and off we go.
The International Rose Test Garden was packed on this Saturday before Memorial Day. Families, young couples, old couples, 2 Chicas and other groups of folks were swarming the garden just like the bees! The immense parking area proved to be no match for the steady stream of cars searching for the elusive parking space. As an added bonus, even the parking areas were blooming with a variety of rose bushes!
Once we lucked into a space, we descended some pretty steep stairs down into the oldest public rose garden in the United States. There were reportedly over 10,000 rose bushes on different growing levels. The view of the city of Portland from the various landings is stunning!
Because of the warm summers and wet winters, Portland is the perfect place to grow roses. Over a decade ago Chica 1 was known to order roses from a company in the Pacific Northwest. My love for the prickly plant has matured as has my understanding of how difficult the rose is to grow in Florida.
But here at the International Rose Garden, I have transformed into a child; moving swiftly from bush to bush, looking at the names and admiring the beauty of the garden. I want them all. Chica 2 rolls her eyes and wanders over to a food cart for a pre-food truck snack.
Chica 2 goes into the gift shop and buys things like rosehip tea, rose socks, etc. It takes some time, but finally, I have had enough of the countless, endless rose garden excursion. How about we visit the Japanese Gardens? Chica 2 quietly walks up the stairs, across the parking lot and begins the ascent up to the top of a pretty steep, winding pathway. At the top Chica 2 proclaims she is famished and Chica 1, winded from the climb, agrees to head back down. Farewell fair rose garden; it was a fragrant afternoon!
2 Chicas Make A Truck Stop
Portland is home to a number of food carts that are grouped in various
areas around town. 2 Chicas headed down to SW 10th Ave. and Alder Street to try
some of the carts in this little area. Of course Chica 2 began to excitedly
discuss what she was going to eat when she got to the food trucks. A homemade
giant burger with fresh cut fries; ooh ooh Thai chicken, but not too spicy;
maybe just a little taste of soul food. Do you think there's soul food? Well
you will see in just a minute my dear.
After parking, we carefully crossed the street and began food cart shopping. Many were closed. One of the vendors says that Saturday afternoons are a mixed bag. It looked like a good crowd to me, but maybe it wasn't a buying crowd.
After parking, we carefully crossed the street and began food cart shopping. Many were closed. One of the vendors says that Saturday afternoons are a mixed bag. It looked like a good crowd to me, but maybe it wasn't a buying crowd.
I am always a little adventurous, so I decided to try food from the country of Georgia. I orded the sampler that came with a melted cheese sandwich, eggplant and walnut roll, and bean and onion bread. It was a little bland for my tastebuds. A homeless man was walking around begging so I offered him this plentiful sampler. Not only did he wholeheartedly decline, he asked for a cheeseburger!
Chica 2 , Whimpy, and the homeless gentleman immediately had a momentary bond. Oh for a cheeseburger today... Fleeting was the sentiment because Chica 2 now wanted to try a little Hawaiian Barbeque. Well, despite our best intentions to visit multiple food trucks, we were stuffed and ready to move on.
2 Chicas drove up to the Pittock Mansion to get a peak at the beautiful views. Supposedly one can see Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Hood. Just our luck, it was overcast and no such views were seen. The air was crisp and cool; our sinus cavities were thankful. As our eyes turned to the Pittlock Mansion, it brought a different sense of beauty to our eyes.It looks like a fancy chateau perfectly situated at the top of a hill.
Naturally the mansion comes with quite a scandalous history, but we can't reveal all the secrets. Supposed to be really good bird watching from this location, but we only saw a couple of birds watching us. Could it be that we got that wrong? Luckily they were relatively small birds.
We wandered over to Macleay Park and admired the beautiful neighborhood. The stately homes invited the weary travelers to look but don't touch. We continue on past shops and restaurants. There is a trail at the end of the loop and there were quite a few cars parked there, but it was a little too spooky looking for two out-of-towners. Felt a lot like something from a low-budget horror movie. Maybe we were just tired; we're not normally so skittish. How do we get over our fears? Retail Therapy - tee hee hee!
As the GPS barked out orders, 2 Chicas sat back and enjoyed the scenic drive to the Addidas Village, home to the Adidas Giant Shoes. Chica 2 parked and went on and on about what she hoped to purchase at the store. Maybe they would have some denim Addidas. That would be so fresh! Or maybe should could find something that isn't available in Florida. Upon entering, we learned that it was an employee only store and that these two sojourners could not shop there!
Can you hear the sad music playing: wa wa wa waaaa? Bummer... We took a couple of pictures of the large shoes and went on our not so merry way. Guess we will have to go to the more traditional plazas to experience any shopping pleasures.
We wandered over to Macleay Park and admired the beautiful neighborhood. The stately homes invited the weary travelers to look but don't touch. We continue on past shops and restaurants. There is a trail at the end of the loop and there were quite a few cars parked there, but it was a little too spooky looking for two out-of-towners. Felt a lot like something from a low-budget horror movie. Maybe we were just tired; we're not normally so skittish. How do we get over our fears? Retail Therapy - tee hee hee!
2 Chicas and My Addidas
As the GPS barked out orders, 2 Chicas sat back and enjoyed the scenic drive to the Addidas Village, home to the Adidas Giant Shoes. Chica 2 parked and went on and on about what she hoped to purchase at the store. Maybe they would have some denim Addidas. That would be so fresh! Or maybe should could find something that isn't available in Florida. Upon entering, we learned that it was an employee only store and that these two sojourners could not shop there!
Can you hear the sad music playing: wa wa wa waaaa? Bummer... We took a couple of pictures of the large shoes and went on our not so merry way. Guess we will have to go to the more traditional plazas to experience any shopping pleasures.
2 Chicas Gorge On Scenery
We were up bright and early the next morning. You see, it was my birthday and boy had I planned a long day! 2 Chicas were set to drive from Portland, up to Mt. Hood, and down to a city near Crater Lake. As we say see ya later to Portland, I couldn't help but feel day two, my birthday, entered with very little fanfare. I often fancy myself far more spirited than I really am. So perhaps in the quiet of this moment, reflection on the importance of highlighting special occasions through
celebrations escapes me.
When I come out of my trance, we are exiting the highway. We turn right, then left, and voile, we arrive at the beautiful little town of Troutdale. With its beautiful outdoorsy sculptures and everyday appeal, it does a great job of serving as the eastern entrance to the Columbia River Gorge. As we slowly drive through the town, the old steel bridges provide a glimpse back in time.
The first pullover on the road was a highway marker highlighting the Lewis and Clark expedition. This was one of a number of scenic overlooks along the Columbia River Highway. Chica 2, after reading some of the history of the area, decided that she was Lewis (of Lewis and Clark). Sadly, she had not read enough of the history to add any authenticity to her role. So after a few awkward shouts of "onward" and a few sideways glances, the reenactment ended.
I, on the other hand, spent my time constantly pointing out Mt. Hood. The first historical marker noted the mountain was named for the Vice Admiral of the British Navy back in 1792. Lewis and Clark on the other hand, named the local river Quicksand. Over time, it became known as the Sandy River. Interesting stuff. Pull over Chica 2, I exclaimd! We've arrived at the Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Overlook.
We find a parking space and leap out the car. We giggle because we both were as glad to stretch our legs as we were to see the outstanding views! Notably, Chica 2 is relieved to get a break from the history lessons. Despite the distractions, the Columbia River is the true star. The river and much of the surrounding area is best described as pristine. Lush green forests bend down to kiss the blue-black waters. As all rivers do, there are twists and turns as well as splinter streams. One can only wonder what lies around the next bend. For us, it is to get back on the road to yet another destination.
Onward fair explorer, let's get to the Vista House at Crown Point.
The Vista House at Crown Point is a beacon on a ridge. I distinctly remember seeing this spot as the plane was descending into the Portland International Airport. According to reading material, Crown Point is one of the most photographed places in the Columbia River Gorge. It is a memorial to Oregon pioneers, and provides yet another beautiful view of the area.
Inside the house is a gallery that displays pictures chronicling the history of the region, beginning with the Native Americans and moving to the building of the roads. It also has a little concession area for snacks, and a much appreciated restroom.
Chica 2 is anxious to get to the waterfalls, and away from more boring history, so off we go to Latourell Falls. Navigating from the Vista House proves to be a mini adventure. As one leaves Crown Point, there are a series of loops winding down 600 feet and much closer to the Columbia River. The car felt as if it was spiraling down the road doing handstands.
Shepperd's Dell is a nice waterfall, but not as
dramatic as Bridal Veil. The path to Bridal Veil Falls is steep and not easy to
navigate. I needed oxygen after descending just half-way down the trail, but I
certainly don't want to take anything away from the waterfall. Just like a
flash of lightning in the night sky, we were jetting up the road to the next
fall.
The big girl of the group is Multnomah Falls. It is a double falls and on the property is a lodge built in 1925. It may be crowded because it is so close to I-84, but it is easy to get to, and only takes a few minutes to get to the base.
Hood. She continues to stare at the mountain from various vantage points and discuss how she will speed down the slopes at the speed of light. I begin to share what Chica 2 finds to be boring facts about Mount Hood - it is 11,239 feet high and is a dormant volcano....
Although many of these facts she finds trite, Chica 2 now wants to delve into the volcano and explore the underworld. What an imagination!
We pull into Buzzard Point, a place I feel is more akin to Chica 2's personality, to take pictures of Mt. Hood from this vantage point. The view is amazing! Chica 2 is really ready to get rolling again. I ask her if she is going to soar above Mt. Hood from a vulture's point of view, but she just rolls her eyes and starts the car. I guess she would have preferred to have been asked if she was going to soar like an eagle. My bad...
The next stop is Jonsrud Viewpoint, which provides a perfect view of the Willamette Valley. I take a number of pictures while being rushed back into the car. Before you know it, we were turning into the Timberline Lodge for a my birthday lunch. We looked at each other in amazement. The skiers were out in full force and the lodge was abuzz with activity.
We were struggling to wrap our heads around skiing the end of May.Two hungry travelers toured the historic Lodge, ate some grub from a lovely buffet, watched a little skiing, and got back on the road. This because Chica 2 decided she was far too full to ski, especially once she saw that the ski lift disappeared into the clouds! What a little scaredy cat!
On the way to Roseburg, we make a quick run through Woodburn Premium Outlets. It was just the thing for two road weary girls. Sadly, as it was Sunday, the outlet closed early, ending our shopping excursion. After a couple more hours on the road, we arrived at our overnight destination. Roseburg is a nice little town with shopping and good quality lodging. We had traveled from Portland up to Mount Hood and down to Southeast Oregon, making multiple stops in one day. Needless to say, we were exhausted!
Once again we were up bright and early the next morning, we had breakfast at the hotel and slipped over to the shopping center to walk off the calories. We then packed up and once again got on the road. The drive from Roseburg to Crater Lake is beautiful on the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway. There are all manner of waterfalls, bubbling brooks, scenic overlooks, and small town shops along the way. We roll down our windows so we can hear the water gurgling down the river. One scenic overlook provided stunning views of Mt. Bailey and Mt. Thielsen as well as a welcome bathroom break. It was fun, but I really wanted to get to Crater Lake, the only National Park in Oregon! As we approach the welcome sign, Chica 2 had to be reminded to slow down for the Ranger Station. Her impatience almost embarrassed us; behaving as if the Ranger was taking too long to give us the guidebook.
Fortunately, this dissatisfaction did not last for very long She lit up like a bonfire as she rounded the first curve. The roads had anywhere from 4ft to 6ft snow banks! Although it was the last week in May, it looked like a winter wonderland!
Every curve and bend of the road provided views of beautiful, white blanketed forests. Chica 2 finally saw a pullout area, parked and bound out of the car. I was left to calmly turn off the car, take out the keys, and lock the door before tracking through partially melted snow. As we neared the rim, we immediately were spellbound!
The blue is what gets you. Your eyes are drawn to the most regal rich blue color of the lake water. It feels like something from your dreams. The water looks like it was painted a perfect crystal blue. It is breathtaking.
We found ourselves taking pictures of the water as if the very next snap of the camera would show we had somehow been mislead. But every single vantage point was beyond belief. We finally realized we were not alone. Others who had come to this relatively remote part of Oregon were standing there on the rim doing the very same thing. Moving from left to right and from right to left snapping pictures. Zooming in with their camera lenses. Showing their companion the pictures. Each of us were beaming!
Chica 2 pretended to be on a snowboard soaring above the rim like some superhero surfer. She soaked in the sun and in that very moment, looked invincible. As I moved my eyes away from Chica 2, I focused in on Wizard Island located in the 1,943 feet deep lake. This is the collapsed cinder cone of the ancient volcano.
Chica 2 says she is going to jump in and swim to the bottom, being the first female diver to accomplish such a feat. She then shivers and changes her mind. Although the water is enticing, she decides hypothermia is not. As such, she will allow someone else to descend into the deepest lake in the country!
Now her fantasy is to hike up to the mouth of the cinder cone and go down into the vent to explore the inner workings of the volcano. Naturally her fear of discovering a huge dinosaur buried beneath the earth stopped her from the latest exploration. She really believed her footsteps would awaken this slumbering beast. Tee Hee He.....
I guess it's best that we return to the car and continue to drive round the lake. The various views were well worth the time and effort. The lake is so enticing, it feels like you can breathe in that deep aqua velvet water. The crispness of the air, the stark whiteness of the snow, and the silky smooth water of the lake caress the senses.
The drive around the rim is about 33 miles so be patient and enjoy the many different sensations all around you! Eventually, we ply ourselves away from the awesome beauty and head to our next exploration. After quick stops at the Steele Visitor's Center, we bid Crater Lake adieu.
When I come out of my trance, we are exiting the highway. We turn right, then left, and voile, we arrive at the beautiful little town of Troutdale. With its beautiful outdoorsy sculptures and everyday appeal, it does a great job of serving as the eastern entrance to the Columbia River Gorge. As we slowly drive through the town, the old steel bridges provide a glimpse back in time.
The first pullover on the road was a highway marker highlighting the Lewis and Clark expedition. This was one of a number of scenic overlooks along the Columbia River Highway. Chica 2, after reading some of the history of the area, decided that she was Lewis (of Lewis and Clark). Sadly, she had not read enough of the history to add any authenticity to her role. So after a few awkward shouts of "onward" and a few sideways glances, the reenactment ended.
I, on the other hand, spent my time constantly pointing out Mt. Hood. The first historical marker noted the mountain was named for the Vice Admiral of the British Navy back in 1792. Lewis and Clark on the other hand, named the local river Quicksand. Over time, it became known as the Sandy River. Interesting stuff. Pull over Chica 2, I exclaimd! We've arrived at the Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Overlook.
We find a parking space and leap out the car. We giggle because we both were as glad to stretch our legs as we were to see the outstanding views! Notably, Chica 2 is relieved to get a break from the history lessons. Despite the distractions, the Columbia River is the true star. The river and much of the surrounding area is best described as pristine. Lush green forests bend down to kiss the blue-black waters. As all rivers do, there are twists and turns as well as splinter streams. One can only wonder what lies around the next bend. For us, it is to get back on the road to yet another destination.
The Vista House at Crown Point is a beacon on a ridge. I distinctly remember seeing this spot as the plane was descending into the Portland International Airport. According to reading material, Crown Point is one of the most photographed places in the Columbia River Gorge. It is a memorial to Oregon pioneers, and provides yet another beautiful view of the area.
Inside the house is a gallery that displays pictures chronicling the history of the region, beginning with the Native Americans and moving to the building of the roads. It also has a little concession area for snacks, and a much appreciated restroom.Chica 2 is anxious to get to the waterfalls, and away from more boring history, so off we go to Latourell Falls. Navigating from the Vista House proves to be a mini adventure. As one leaves Crown Point, there are a series of loops winding down 600 feet and much closer to the Columbia River. The car felt as if it was spiraling down the road doing handstands.
2 Chicas Fall and then Fall Some More
The sides of the mountains were so close, I was
tempted to reach out and grab a mossy tree limb, but being the practical one,
decided against it. The promise of four waterfalls within five miles was almost
too much for Chica 2 to handle. She anxiously pulled into a parking space and
leaned her head in the direction of Latourell Falls. We could hear the water
from afar and as we rounded the corner,
Latourell Falls was peaking at us
through the trees. As we made our way closer to the falls, we smiled at the
volunteers working to remove some invasive species of plant growing in the
area. It was refreshing seeing a multicultural group of young people working
together to protect one of their local treasures. We hiked the narrow trail
right up to the falls.
Latourell Falls was peaking at us
through the trees. As we made our way closer to the falls, we smiled at the
volunteers working to remove some invasive species of plant growing in the
area. It was refreshing seeing a multicultural group of young people working
together to protect one of their local treasures. We hiked the narrow trail
right up to the falls.
We don't care how many waterfalls we've seen on
trips, it is still with wonder that I gaze upon tons of water cascading over
the side of a mountain. To feel cool droplets brush against my face and hear the
power of the water as hit hits the basin floor to me is one of God's ways of
saying "I AM". Chica 2 was beaming and as usual, was already rushing to
get to the next waterfall. Please just give me another minute to take it all
in! I glance over my should prior to sitting down in the car and breathe in
deeply.
Shepperd's Dell is a nice waterfall, but not as
dramatic as Bridal Veil. The path to Bridal Veil Falls is steep and not easy to
navigate. I needed oxygen after descending just half-way down the trail, but I
certainly don't want to take anything away from the waterfall. Just like a
flash of lightning in the night sky, we were jetting up the road to the next
fall. The big girl of the group is Multnomah Falls. It is a double falls and on the property is a lodge built in 1925. It may be crowded because it is so close to I-84, but it is easy to get to, and only takes a few minutes to get to the base.
There are only three other waterfalls in the nation taller than Multnomah
Falls, so 2 Chicas say this is a don't miss it opportunity! There is a bridge
that allows close viewing of the lower falls and it also provides a great view
of the upper falls. This place is teeming with people because of the lodge and
the reputation of this particular waterfall. There are many informational
placards and picture perfect angles. We avoid photo bombing any permanent
memories, cross the street with care and take a few more pictures of our own. As
we bid goodbye to Multnomah, we get the pleasure of driving by the Oneonta
Gorge. It is one of the most beautiful areas in the states. We liken it to some
wonderful botanical fairyland, but we had to take a pass because hiking to the
waterfall would require immersion in Oneonta Creek. It is just too cold for we
Floridians to engage in waterplay!
2 Chicas Visit the Hood
About an hour into the drive to the Timberline Lodge, Chica 2 decides she wants to ski down one of the slopes of Mount
Although many of these facts she finds trite, Chica 2 now wants to delve into the volcano and explore the underworld. What an imagination!
We pull into Buzzard Point, a place I feel is more akin to Chica 2's personality, to take pictures of Mt. Hood from this vantage point. The view is amazing! Chica 2 is really ready to get rolling again. I ask her if she is going to soar above Mt. Hood from a vulture's point of view, but she just rolls her eyes and starts the car. I guess she would have preferred to have been asked if she was going to soar like an eagle. My bad...
We were struggling to wrap our heads around skiing the end of May.Two hungry travelers toured the historic Lodge, ate some grub from a lovely buffet, watched a little skiing, and got back on the road. This because Chica 2 decided she was far too full to ski, especially once she saw that the ski lift disappeared into the clouds! What a little scaredy cat!
On the way to Roseburg, we make a quick run through Woodburn Premium Outlets. It was just the thing for two road weary girls. Sadly, as it was Sunday, the outlet closed early, ending our shopping excursion. After a couple more hours on the road, we arrived at our overnight destination. Roseburg is a nice little town with shopping and good quality lodging. We had traveled from Portland up to Mount Hood and down to Southeast Oregon, making multiple stops in one day. Needless to say, we were exhausted!
2 Chicas Crater Surf
Once again we were up bright and early the next morning, we had breakfast at the hotel and slipped over to the shopping center to walk off the calories. We then packed up and once again got on the road. The drive from Roseburg to Crater Lake is beautiful on the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway. There are all manner of waterfalls, bubbling brooks, scenic overlooks, and small town shops along the way. We roll down our windows so we can hear the water gurgling down the river. One scenic overlook provided stunning views of Mt. Bailey and Mt. Thielsen as well as a welcome bathroom break. It was fun, but I really wanted to get to Crater Lake, the only National Park in Oregon! As we approach the welcome sign, Chica 2 had to be reminded to slow down for the Ranger Station. Her impatience almost embarrassed us; behaving as if the Ranger was taking too long to give us the guidebook.
Fortunately, this dissatisfaction did not last for very long She lit up like a bonfire as she rounded the first curve. The roads had anywhere from 4ft to 6ft snow banks! Although it was the last week in May, it looked like a winter wonderland!
Every curve and bend of the road provided views of beautiful, white blanketed forests. Chica 2 finally saw a pullout area, parked and bound out of the car. I was left to calmly turn off the car, take out the keys, and lock the door before tracking through partially melted snow. As we neared the rim, we immediately were spellbound!
We found ourselves taking pictures of the water as if the very next snap of the camera would show we had somehow been mislead. But every single vantage point was beyond belief. We finally realized we were not alone. Others who had come to this relatively remote part of Oregon were standing there on the rim doing the very same thing. Moving from left to right and from right to left snapping pictures. Zooming in with their camera lenses. Showing their companion the pictures. Each of us were beaming!
Chica 2 pretended to be on a snowboard soaring above the rim like some superhero surfer. She soaked in the sun and in that very moment, looked invincible. As I moved my eyes away from Chica 2, I focused in on Wizard Island located in the 1,943 feet deep lake. This is the collapsed cinder cone of the ancient volcano.
Now her fantasy is to hike up to the mouth of the cinder cone and go down into the vent to explore the inner workings of the volcano. Naturally her fear of discovering a huge dinosaur buried beneath the earth stopped her from the latest exploration. She really believed her footsteps would awaken this slumbering beast. Tee Hee He.....I guess it's best that we return to the car and continue to drive round the lake. The various views were well worth the time and effort. The lake is so enticing, it feels like you can breathe in that deep aqua velvet water. The crispness of the air, the stark whiteness of the snow, and the silky smooth water of the lake caress the senses.
The drive around the rim is about 33 miles so be patient and enjoy the many different sensations all around you! Eventually, we ply ourselves away from the awesome beauty and head to our next exploration. After quick stops at the Steele Visitor's Center, we bid Crater Lake adieu.
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