On a lovely day in early October, Arno and I had a free morning and went to Laurelhurst Park, in Portland’s trendy Southeast section. The park is an easy walk from the famous Hawthorne Street, and even closer to Belmont Street. It’s a long walk from my house, but a 15 minute drive, so we took the quicker option.
I had my photography lesson the day before, and I practiced a little. I don’t notice any great improvement in the quality of my photos, but I did practice adjusting aperture and shutter speed. I still haven’t really figured out iso. But the great thing is: I went out snapping photos, and did not rely on my auto settings. This is a first for me, and I’m proud of myself for taking the plunge.
Laurelhurst sits on a divide between the grittier hipsters of the SE, and the wealthy Laurelhurst neighborhood of gigantic homes like castles that vie for attention along hilly streets that curve from view beneath enormous trees. When I first moved to Portland I fantasized about living in one of those homes, and being able to walk from my front porch to the spacious and stunning park.
The day was sunny. The lake sparkling. The ducks eager. Dogs and children barking and squealing. Strollers being pushed, lovers hand in hand, joggers, skaters, readers, chess players, photographers. All in all, a perfect day for the park.
Conscious Engagement 