The sun returns

The draw here is the blue-green clay and weathered formations that tower up from the trail.

Totality

And then, blam! A distinct change in light and temperature.

Sea Lions on the docks

From an anthropologist’s perspective, I think the rivalry is almost touching.

Oregon Wine & Sake

Along the route are 31 highlighted wineries within a 30 minute drive of the city.

Beach time

Confession: I live about 40 minutes’ drive from the Pacific Ocean and I hardly ever go there! That’s a crime, isn’t it? Yes, yes it is. In 2016 I’ve been to the beach two times. I went to Astoria for my birthday in January, and later in the Spring, I went out with a group […]

Rainier Soap & Christmas

I was delighted to discover that one of the largest original industries in the town was the Rainier Soap Factory

Enchanted rides

The rides are not as mind-blowing as typical corporate them park rides, but they are legitimately fun.

Enchantment

It’s just on the other side of cute, and has turned creepy in a most delicious way.

Cherry Orchard Trail

We would be hiking the Cherry Orchard Trail that also begins near Lyle, and I knew ahead of time that I would like it.

Cliffs, moss, waterfalls

My philosophy is that there is potential danger all around us at all times, and that a trail is actually safer than a sidewalk.