Oregon Exploring: Japanese Gardens in the Spring

My parents flew Sawyer out from California after we had a little time to settle into our rental house. We wanted some time to setup a totally empty house. Thank goodness we did. Our stuff was a week late so we slept on an air mattress and our couch was another blow up mattress. Baby proof...yes, but certainly not toddler friendly.

We took my parents and Sawyer to the Japanese Gardens in Washington Park. It's such a peaceful and picturesque place to be. I have never been, but it was definitely on my to do list for exploring Oregon. I want to go back every season (I am especially looking forward to Fall).

Day dreaming

Sand garden
I had visions of my toddler running through the middle of this, but thankfully I was wrong. What a job to rank the garden. Wonder if they are hiring?

Sawyer loved the gardens meandering paths, but the koi fish were his fave.

That face, those curls!

I love the light pouring in from the trees.

Waterfall with all that lovely moss. One thing I am not used to...all the moss in Oregon. I love getting lost in it.

This is where you enter. Well, hello there.

The Japanese Gardens are a must if visiting Portland, Oregon. My next quest if one for food. I am REALLY, REEEALLLLY missing Mexican food. We have tried places in the Portland, Oregon area with no luck. Southern California is full of yummy Mexican food...house made chips, homemade salsa, guac...bean and cheese burritos! Ok, I'm making myself hungry. I'm missing a good hole in the wall. The last place I tried in Oregon made me sick. Please, any suggestions are welcomed from locals. Otherwise, I am on my own and on the hunt!



Hours / Directions

Addmission
$9.50 Adult
$7.75 Senior (65+)
$7.75 College Student (w/ID)
$6.75 Youth (6-17)Children 5 and under free

Portland Bound

I turned 36 last week and I am jobless, homeless, and I couldn't be happier. We sold our house in one weekend. I was hopeful it would sell fast, but this was shocking! We live in a historic area of Orange, California. Old Towne Orange feels like small town living. I fell for a charming craftsman bungalow five years ago and have been fixing it up ever since. I had no clue how much work it would take, but I was really happy with how we are leaving our home. I can only hope the new owners have as many amazing things happen in the home for them!

I've worked for the same company for almost 8 years. It's been a rewarding position, but I am ready for a new adventure. My new job title goes a little something like this...mommy, wife, freelance graphic designer. I am beyond excited that I will be staying home with Sawyer. It's such an honor. I am also super lucky to be able to work out of my home. I love what I do and I couldn't give it up. It's apart of who I am, but it's about finding balance between work and family. By day I will be mommy and by night I will be a designer.

SO...the big question is where are we moving? Hmm...maybe the title of this post gave it away..Portland, Oregon! Visiting Oregon was like finding a hidden gem. You don't know why the rest of the world does not know about. Shh...don't tell anyone. I want it to stay that way. It is true...you have to like the weather. WE DO! Give me gloom and rain over sunshine any day. Rain especially makes me feel alive. My California friends are reading this saying...you crazy girl! Maybe I am!? Nah, we are going to love hiking, exploring and living our new life. Today we drove 550 miles to Redding, California and tomorrow we will drive into Portland. I can hardly wait! It's been hard to leave family and friends, but we know it's what will be best for us.