So, I think I’m going to try & introduce something called Film Fridays, where I post some personal film work for fun. This one is from my roadtrip in Northern California & like I’ve said before, I terribly miss it here. I have recently had an obsession with camping, and my goal is to go camping in these woods someday soon. <3
Hope you all have a good weekend — go & do something that is inspiring!
the columbia hotel . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
the columbia hotel . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
the columbia hotel . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
stumptown coffee at mix & breadboard restaurant . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
stumptown at mix cafe . ashland, or . polaroid sx-70
lithia park . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
lithia park . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
lithia park . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
lithia park . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
deer at lithia park . ashland, or . polaroid sx-70
deer at lithia park . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
breadboard restaurant . ashland, or . polaroid sx-70
ashland hills . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
on the way to medford . ashland, or . canon 5d mk II
the road there . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
self portrait . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
the most amazing person . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
sammy & julie & richard . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
bear & sammy . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
hands . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
a letter from kim’s . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
kim’s chinese and american foods . medford, or . canon 5d mk II
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Well, here I am, finally blogging the second half of Ashland. It took a really long time to blog this portion of the trip because it was the most personal to me, and I learned a great deal about myself from it. I’m still not sure what to say, but I will tell you what I did love about it.
+ the most charming hotel I stayed in — The Columbia Hotel, which is a European style hotel had real keys and such charm. Hotels like this don’t fit everyone, but I really loved it.
+ mix cafe — where I discovered Stumptown coffee. I was in heaven after that.
+ lithia park — I had to make another stop at this lovely park in the morning after going there the evening before. Which brought me to the best part of the park — the little deer family I stumbled upon! And they must be so very familiar and comfortable with humans because they allowed me to get very, very close! Of course, that one deer kept eyeing me as I was taking photos.
+ breadboard restaurant – um. yum.
+ family friends — one of the largest reasons I wanted to come to this area was see old family friends that I have not seen in about 18 years. It was amazing catching up with them, hearing stories about my family, and my parents when they first immigrated to the US. I learned more about myself in this section of the trip than I have in a long time. At least, about my history. I read letters my dad “wrote” & got to see places where they had been before me. Before I came into this world. It was amazing.
+ josh ritter — And, it was our family friends who introduced me to Josh Ritter & his wife Dawne Landes, who I listened to the majority of my trip back home. It turns out that Josh is a part of the family that I went to visit. So a part of my roadtrip music collection grows. I pretty much listened to the music I collected during this trip for months after coming back from it.
Learning about my history, about my family’s past makes me feel like a part of something larger, something more important. I almost felt, rooted. I don’t know how to describe it, really. I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I was going on this entire trip — what I would learn & see & do. But I have gained so much and I am so grateful for it. This made me want to go back to China someday because when I went many years ago, I wasn’t into photography just yet, so I don’t have good documentation of all the things I saw and learned. So that is definitely something I will have to do in the future. :)
Now, it is time to drive home.
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. | patrick’s point . film. |seattle . part one. | seattle . part two. | the man in the alley. | the road to ashland. | ashland . part one. |
ashland creek . ashland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
. . . . . . . . . . .
Why hello, Ashland :)
the moon & the ashland springs hotel . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
windows & displays . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
I arrived in Ashland well after dark, and after unpacking and checking into my hotel (the Columbia Hotel – highly recommended European style hotel), I spent most of the evening walking up and down the downtown main street (it’s quite small) trying to decide where to eat. Nothing looked really appealing until I looked into the window of a restaurant called Tease and saw a band setting up that I found my spot. :) The band was actually a small LA band called the Tyler Lane Band and they were really quite good! I purchased a CD (my second one on this trip – I was well on my way to making a soundtrack without even planning it) and snapped some photos while enjoying my dinner (duck tacos! I can never resist duck) & a honey ale beer (my first one that I finished!!). I felt like such a grown up – on my own in a restaurant, sitting at the bar, enjoying the band & just being content. :)
the tyler lane band . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
honey ale & free chocolate pudding! . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
the tease bar . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
The next morning I went to the first place that looked appealing for some brunch and coffee, a little place called Pangea :) Lentil soup with one of their wonderful wraps – yum! (notice my Oregon sticker on my polaroid/travel journal :)) Afterwards, I pretty much spent the rest of the day going into shops, visiting the park & walking all around.
lentil soup . ashland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
floor with character . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
pangea & mix . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
ashland hills . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
used books & fall tree . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
ashland creek . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
ashland creek . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
ashland creek & bench . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
The Ashland Creek & Lithia Park, two places that just spoke to me during my stay here. The stream is so comforting, and the park is so inviting. I could get lost here for hours. In fact, I spent a great deal of time here. (and I’ll spend more the next day!)
reflections . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
the most soothing place in the world . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
painter & cellist at lithia park . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
leaves . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
leaves & light . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
one leaf . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
lithia park . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
fall is on it’s way . ashland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
ashland lithia water . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
thirsty . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
ashland springs hotel . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
Home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, possibly one of the most popular and well know Shakespeare Festivals in the nation, you see this all over the town. Because of this, there were quite a lot of junior high and high schoolers milling about (I remember in high school there was a field trip here – I didn’t go to that though). I didn’t watch any plays, but I did see one of the free shows on the outdoor stage, which was some flamenco dancing.
columbia hotel . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
banner . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
lithia park . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
the coolest car on the entire planet . ashland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
flamenco dancing . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
After watching a bit, it began to get cold, so I headed to a coffee/ice cream/pastry shop called Mix – where I had possibly the most perfect cup of coffee I ever had. They serve Stumptown Coffee, which I am simply head over heels for. I only wish they had locations over here! But I understand why they wouldn’t – I will just have to settle for buying beans online. When I arrived at Mix, I asked for a decaf coffee, which they said they don’t have ready, but they could do a french press for me, which is how my love for french press coffee from cafes (I already owned one at home) began. It really is that much better. I got the decaf honduras. Seriously amazing.
the most perfect cup of coffee. ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
After coffee, I went to Standing Stone Brewery for dinner – which to be honest was a little disappointing. The beer was fabulous but the food fell a bit short. :( I sorta wish I tried something from these pickled jars though.. I love all things pickled. <3
pickled . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
standing stone . ashland, oregon . canon 5dmk2
. . . . . . . . . . .
Ashland, my roots. Or at least, where my roots began. It felt good to be here, to be reconnecting with this… space. lol, I don’t know how else to explain it really. It’s a beautiful little town, with so much character and charm. One could argue that with the festival, it could be too geared towards touritsts, but I didn’t feel this way at all. It held it’s own. I struck up conversations with everyone around me, and just thought it was all around lovely.
I just love Oregon, I do.
Part two on it’s way.
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. | patrick’s point . film. | seattle . part one. | seattle . part two. | the man in the alley. | the road to ashland. |
road to ashland . somewhere in oregon . polaroid sx-70
Hello again, Oregon.
puffy clouds . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
rain in the hills . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
rain in the hills . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
over 30,000 miles . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
expressive clouds . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
the light . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
ivy . eugene, oregon . sx-70
sheep . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
rail . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
on the way . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
mist in hills . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
sunset . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
sliver of light . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
an oregon sunset . somewhere in oregon . polaroid sx-70
towards the sun . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
farewell light . somewhere in oregon . canon 5d mk2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
So, here I am, back on the road again. This time I was heading back down south, towards home. But before reaching home, I had a few more stops to make. My next stop was namely Ashland, Oregon.
I’ve said before in the past posts about this trip that there is something about Oregon that just feels good to me. I think in large part is it due to the fact that it was where everything began for me.
And I’m going back to the beginning.
My next few posts are a bit hard for me to formulate, I really almost don’t know what to write. Half of me wants to write nothing at all and just let images talk. I haven’t quite decided yet.
Either way, here are the images from the part of the trip where I travel through Oregon again, this time on I-5. I especially enjoyed the fact that I had clouds & rain to entertain me the entire trip down. :)
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. | patrick’s point . film. | seattle . part one. | seattle . part two. | the man in the alley. |
the man in the alley . seattle, wa . polaroid 420
. . . . . . . . .
One of my most absolute favorite images from the road trip, I thought it deserved it’s own post.
To wonder who this man was, where he has been & where he was going.
I hope he is well.
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. | patrick’s point . film. | seattle . part one. | seattle . part two. |
geraldines & sweet potato fries . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
ammmmazing french toast . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pioneer square . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
salumi . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
salumi . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pioneer square . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
such a wise face . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
ornamo . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
rooms 75 cents . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
cadillac hotel . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
ivy & socks . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
a collection of guitars . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
globe bookstore & bookworks studio. seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
elliott bay cafe. seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
amusing store writings . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
books books books . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
the elliott bay book company . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
taping of a movie. seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
public boat landing . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
rain . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
refuge from the rain . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
fremont troll . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
etg . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
mel & matt’s place. seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
& commences part two. :)
A few things I enjoyed & saw:
+ geraldine’s.
The yummiest french toast resides here. And I can never say no to sweet potato fries. :)
+ salumi.
The yummiest cured meats resides here. There was a pretty large line when we went – definitely a place to visit while in Seattle :)
+ fremont.
A really cute, hip area, where the famed Troll lives and where the best vintage mall in all of the world is. (This is probably not true, there are other ones out there that I’m sure are more amazing, but this has been by far the best place ever. I spent wayyyy longer in here than I intended). Another great vintage store is also in this area, as well as the cutest tiny coffeeshop (with a working vintage cash register!) where I took refuge in while it rained.
+ wasabi bistro.
Awesome sushi place where I met up with the very lovely Sarah Rhoads & her husband, Chris. I had such an enjoyable time meeting up with them for the first time, and the sushi was pretty awesome too ;)
+ pioneer square.
Known as the oldest part of Seattle, it’s got lovely brick buildings, and I also witnessed people filming a movie (which I found out later was the movie called The Details). They also have underground tours here, but I always seemed to miss them because of the timing with parking just never worked out. There is also a really great antique shop here, where I found a great typewriter for Mel ;)
+ elliott bay books.
I just love bookstores, and Elliot Bay is the oldest in Seattle. I loved the feel of it – it’s different than Powell’s in Portland, the floors creak, the nooks are a bit more hidden, and it just feels older. I love it.
+ vintage/antique malls.
Can I just say how I love the way Seattle sets up vintage/antique malls? People can buy space and sell their things at whatever price in that space in the ‘mall’ so you can find things at varying prices. So likely you’ll find some bargains, or at least, some really reasonably prices vintage/antique items. The vintage mall in Fremont was especially amazing – the prices were really quite fair, I thought! I found a lovely blue fan there and a gorgeous grey clutch that I love! :)
. . . . . . . .
Thus ends my northernmost portion of my trip, and I begin heading south. Heading up north, going through all the cities and landscapes, I saw a lot and experienced a lot. Next in my journey would be the most personal part, the part where I learn the most about me.
Ashland, here I come. :)
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. | patrick’s point . film. | seattle . part one. |
seattle from kerry park . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
Seattle! I have finally arrived. :)
sunset . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
seattle from kerry park . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
5 spot . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
molly moo’s . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
molly moo’s . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
molly moo’s . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
a random dodgeball game . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
locks at ballard . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
foliage . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
flowers . pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
broccoli romanesco . pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . polaroid 420
peppers . pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
first starbucks . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . polaroid sx-70
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place fish . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
awesome guys rockin out . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
rockin out . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
to and from pike place market . seattle, washington . canon 5d mk2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Upon arriving Seattle, I first went to my friend Mel’s place where I was staying while I was there. I really enjoyed being able to spend time with her and her husband Matt (whose wedding I photographed too way back in 2005!) Since I was staying with them during mostly weekdays, I did most of my exploring on my own, which I feel produced a different feel of images versus my Portland set.
A few things I enjoyed:
+ kerry park.
When I first got there, Mel & Matt took me to this park, which has a wonderful view of Seattle. On the way there I also finally got to view a sunset! I don’t know what it is about sunsets. I think I enjoy them because it signifies a transition from the day – much like I enjoy early mornings (I just hate waking up for them!) The view form the park was beautiful – I was even fortunate enough to see Mt Rainer (how lucky I was to see both mountains during my trip!)
+ 5 spot.
A restaurant that apparently changes their menu & decor every few months to a certain theme or location. While I was there, it was Puerto Rican themed. Unfortunately it seemed we got there a bit too late, and most of the food was gone, but we were still able to dine. And they had live music! :)
+ molly moon’s.
Ice cream! Who wouldn’t love it? I enjoyed the lavender lemon sorbet which was delicious! I absolutely loved the decor of this place, and while we were enjoying the ice cream, we were also trying to see who could make their trash into the trashcan from halfway across the room. And while Matt wasn’t looking – I totally made the shot. :)
+ portage bay cafe.
Famed for their breakfasts, I met up with my friend Nickie here and we enjoyed lovely breakfasts here, & watched as Nickleback enjoyed their breakfast from across the room as well. lol. (we went to the Ballard location)
+ pike place.
If you’re familiar with Seattle, then you will notice that the majority of these images are from Pike Place. There is just so much there! I was in awe of all the colorful flowers (and so cheap!! $5 for a beautiful bundle with dahlias and everything!) and perfectly displayed fruit and of course the entertaining fish throwing. I wandered around a lot, there are many nooks and crannies that you can look into. And the food! I was able to try a mini doughnut place that is near the front of the market – by the time I got there they were about to close so they gave me a bunch of doughnuts for insanely cheap. Even though they weren’t warm they were still delicious, and I would imagine taste amazing when they are warm & fresh! I had to stop into the first Starbucks as well, just to do it. :) Pike Place is a really touristy area though, and it’s obvious, but it’s still fun. :)
+ a modern dance class.
While I was there, I decided to try & take a dance class to keep a bit in shape (I was able to take a pilates class in Berkeley while on this trip) & asked Mel if she wanted to come with me since she dances as well. I really enjoyed taking the class and getting my feet dirty so to speak. Dance just feels so good for me to do, and I love moving to music as well. Unfortunately I’ve slacked off since coming home from my trip, but I always tell myself I need to get back into class! There’s really nothing like it for me.
. . . . . . . .
Seattle reminds me a lot of San Francisco in some ways. Mel noted that when she first visited Seattle, this was her impression as well, and she LOVES SF, so it was a done deal for them to move there from California. It’s definitely much more of a city vibe than you feel in Portland.
More images are coming up – I had to split Seattle into two posts because I took so many images! And I just want to share so much with you all. :) So part two is up next.
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city. |
patrick’s point . film. |
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
I finally got around to getting some film developed recently, including the ones I took on my roadtrip. Here are three favorites of mine, from Patrick’s Point. Taken with the Hasselblad 500CM. I love, love, love the feel of the first one especially (as well as the last one) – it brings me back to being there. :)
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning. | day one. | day two. | day three. | day four. | portland . the home. | portland . the city.
the pearl district . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
menus . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
trees. portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
carton service . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
oblation papers & press . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
je pense a vous & je t’aime . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
water tower . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
modern confectionery lofts. portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
hunt & gather in b&w . portland, oregon . polaroid 420
pearl district . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
flower . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
vespa & sushi . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
crockery . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
pearl district . portland, oregon . polaroid 420
pella. portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
electric . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
mini cupcakes & coffee . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
a french lunch . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
me & common table . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
amy & her coffee . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
chandelier . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
mt. hood . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
washington park . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
emily at living room theaters . portland, oregon . canon 5d mk2
tacos . portland, oregon . polaroid sx-70
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Portland, oh, Portland. I fell for you. Hard.
Instead of describing exactly what I did, I will share with you what I loved, as well as a few things I noticed.
+ the pearl district.
Oh, oh. How I loved this area. Most of these images are from the Pearl District – I loved it that much. Plus that was the area I spent the most time exploring on my own. It reminded me of a cross between Chicago’s buildings & Sacramento’s midtown feel.
+ powell’s books.
It’s book heaven. And I could’ve lived there. Three floors filled to the brim with books? The possibilities are endless. It is also where I purchased my Heart in Oregon sticker because yes, my heart is in Oregon.
+ living room theaters.
What a lovely little spot! I met up with an old high school friend of mine here, we watched Amy’s friend Michalangela sing live jazz (she has such a lovely voice – I bought her CD while I was there) & drank delicious spanish coffee while catching up :)
+ restaurants & shops.
. isabel pearl . Coincidentally, the owner resides here in San Diego, and also owns other restaurants here :)
. cupcake jones . Had the most adorable key lime coconut mini cupcake here. Yum!
. st honoré boulangerie . The most charming french boulangerie, & had the most delicious lunch there! I love places that have common tables – it’s a very fun way to eat :)
. ipnosi . bought the most adorable blue coat here ;)
. sapphire hotel . this is actually a restaurant, but it formerly a seedy hotel where rooms were rented by the hour around the turn of the 20th century. Pretty awesome location & delicious brunch food!
. oblations paper & press . unfortunately it was closed when I passed by, but I did droll through the window ;)
+ the people.
One of the things that struck me the most about Portland was definitely the people. On my entire trip, it was probably the most welcoming, warm & comfortable locale; random strangers would compliment my clothes, and I just felt like I was accepted. I got the impression that people genuinely cared for each other – even strangers. One of the things that I noticed immediately when walking around the city was people looked at one another. People were looking at me! I was actually quite self conscious about this in the beginning, I thought there was something wrong with me or that I stuck out strangely, but I then realized that this is just how Portland people are. The way people look at one another isn’t a mean way either, like some cities do – they’re not looking at you to judge you or size you up in any way – the way people look at one another is a comfortable, gentle curiosity. While I was there I noticed myself looking at others more – and looking strangers in the eye more – something that I don’t feel like I can necessarily do here in San Diego. In Portland, I felt like I was actually a part of their community, even though I had been there only for a few days. It was pretty amazing.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In short, yes, I love it & want to move there. I had never felt so immediately comfortable in a city like I did in Portland. I loved it. In my head, I’d like to think someday, someday. Portland. You are in our future.
Someday. :)
*
Up next, Seattle!
*
Previous road trip posts:
the beginning.
day one.
day two.
day three.
day four.
portland . the home.
Another placeholder! This one will be much shorter. Check back later this afternoon ;) Okay, so I totally lied on this one! and to make up for it, I replaced it with a different image :)
tell your story . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
boots & wellies / chairs & bike . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
the kitchen . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
breakfast . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
the dresser . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
piano maps . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
the room . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
where to? . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
prepping . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
milk glass typewriter . portland, or . canon 5d mk2
. . . . . . .
& the polaroids.
that blender . portland, or . sx-70
the cursive typewriter . portland, or . sx-70
the dresser top . portland, or . sx-70
miss amy seeley . portland, or . sx-70
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Portland, oh Portland. But before I begin on you, I must begin on Miss Amy Seeley (along with the lovely roommate Emily)’s home. My dear friend Amy was gracious enough to allow me to stay with her while I was in Portland, and I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to see Portland with her, through her eyes. After leaving Astoria, I drove inland towards Portland and arrived later than I had planned. Immediately once I entered Amy & Emily’s abode, I fell in love. It’s so charming in every. single. way. See that typewriter? It writes in cursive. I’ve wanted one ever since now. That blender? So 1950’s perfect. The chairs and bike? The boots and wellies? Can we talk about those?! I am green with envy, if only it rained enough here for me to justify buying a pair (of course, I can justify buying ten thousand coats though. lol) I especially love how Amy arranges her room, with pockets of inspiration everywhere. Her dresser top is filled with treasures, things that you can tell she adores. (And it’s hilarious that she and I have the exact same milk glass pedestal vase – I found mine at a thrift store here in San Diego, hers in Portland). And her beautiful, beautiful piano, where she creates her lovely sounds. My favorite spot in her entire home would probably be right above her piano, where she has lovingly arranged some clear bottles, a compass, a feather, and my favorite part of all – a typewritten phrase – tell your story.
I wish I had taken more photos of their home, cause there were so many things I loved about it. I loved the morning light that streamed through the front in the morning, and cascaded down the back of the house and into Amy’s room in the afternoon. I loved how cozy it felt, I could have stayed for so much longer!
Obviously this isn’t all that I experienced of Portland, but I did want to separate it into two posts to feature the home & then the city. Oh, the city.
That will come next.
*
Previous road trip posts:
moody skies over nye beach . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
Day four was here, and my last day along the coast. It started off cloudy (what else was new?!) but it was going to be a much more leisurely day of travel because I had less distance to cover to my next destination. So that allowed me spend more time exploring places. :) I started the morning off journaling in my pajamas while looking out the window over the ocean, then grabbing some coffee and a camera and heading down to the beach. (Coffee and I would become great friends on this trip). I absolutely loved how moody the clouds were over the water.
moody skies over nye beach . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
crab shell . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
just the two of us . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
beach grass . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
After a good stroll, I headed towards the bayfront, and then to the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. It’s very similar to the lighthouse in Point Loma, shaped like a house, and the inside set up with 19 century items. I love seeing all those things, and imagining how they lived back then. After touring the lighthouse a bit, I hit the road for Cannon Beach.
bayfront . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
bayfront . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
yaquina bay lighthouse . newport, oregon . polaroid sx-70
yaquina bay lighthouse interior . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
yaquina bay lighthouse interior . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
yaquina bay lighthouse . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
yaquina bay bridge . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
trees in grass . oregon coast highway . canon 5d mk2
two lands joining together . oregon coast highway . canon 5d mk2
tree on rock . oregon coast highway . canon 5d mk2
haystack rock . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
to haystack rock . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
haystack rock . cannon beach, oregon . polaroid sx-70
the beach . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
haystack rock . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
Immediately, Cannon Beach struck me how much it reminded me of San Diego beaches, except the huge sea stacks that were smack on the beach & in the ocean. It almost gives you a sense of scale and grandeur. Also, instead cliffs like you see in San Diego, you see mountains. I stopped into town for lunch (Sweet Basil Cafe) before heading towards Astoria, my last stop before heading to Portland.
mini sand dues & rain n shine . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
quaint little barn by the water . cannon beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
I literally stopped the car in the middle of to road after passing by this barn and said out lout “You’ve got to be kidding me!” It was that quaint & unassuming!
on the way to washington . columbia river, oregon/washington border . canon 5d mk2
whoops! welcome to washington . point ellice, washington . canon 5d mk2
Hm. Whoops! When navigating through Astoria, I ignored my GPS and went left instead of right, which forced me to cross the Columbia river into Washington! And let me tell you, that has got to be the scariest bridge ride I’ve ever done (and I’ve done many), because of how high you visibly climb in the beginning, and then how close you are to the actual water towards the end. And I wasn’t thrilled to have to do it all over again to make it back!
back over the bridge . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria-megler bridge . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
While in Astoria (which reminds me of a miniature San Francisco), I decided to go up to the Astoria Column which I found on Yelp (let me tell you, Yelp was my *go to* when I was on my own during this trip!), and walked up the 164 flights of stairs to the very top, which was EXHAUSTING, but well worth the stunning 360 view.
astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
looking northwest . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
looking west . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
looking south . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
looking east . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
‘little’ boats . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
sun rays . astoria column . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
I was falling in love with Astoria, one bit at a time.
I had a bit more time before sunset (I was determined to see a sunset on this trip!) so I hurried into downtown, to see if I could get a view over the water.
through the trees . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
quaint little neighborhood . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
quaint little neighborhood . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
Before getting to the waterfront, I decided to walk a bit through the town. I really fell in love with Astoria. The vibe, the feel, it really was like a miniature SF! I so wanted to stay longer, but I couldn’t. However, I did find this charming, charming, charming coffeehouse (Astoria Coffeehouse Cafe) and hung out there a bit. I fell in love with the entire place and ordered myself a chai to drink, which was the best chai I’ve ever had in my life. They also offered Stumptown coffee, which you will hear more of down the line. :)
astoria coffeehouse cafe. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria coffeehouse cafe. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria coffeehouse cafe. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria coffeehouse cafe. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
godfather’s books. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
godfather’s books. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
liberty theater. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
streeview. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
pilot. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria-megler bridge. astoria, oregon . polaroid sx-70
Reached the waterfront! But blast! I can’t see the actual sunset, so I headed back up to the column to try & see if I could catch it up there.
columbia river looking towards washington. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
from my polaroid travel journal. astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
astoria-megler bridge, after sunset . astoria, oregon . canon 5d mk2
Of course, by the time I drove up there, the sun was gone. Alas, another sunset has alluded me on this trip.
But I had fallen in love with an entirely new town. Astoria, though my time with you had been brief, you are lovely in every way. I will be back soon. :)
Thus ends the coastal portion of my trip and I head inland.
Portland, here I come :)
*
Previous road trip posts:
leaving eureka . eureka, ca . canon 5d mk2
On day three, I was greeted in the morning with more fog, which again was on and off throughout the day depending where I was. My destination was Newport, Oregon, which was roughly 8 hrs away if I drove straight through, but of course, being on a trip like this I made many, many stops. That was one of the beauties of taking a trip like this on your own, I could do whatever the heck I wanted to. :) My first planned stop was Patrick’s Point, which absolutely took my breath away because it was thick with fog which gave the entire place this incredible mood that I was in awe of. I felt like I was transported into a different world. I ended up staying there TWO HOURS, which I did NOT plan at all!!
in awe . patrick’s point, ca . polaroid 420
the magical trees . patrick’s point, ca . canon 5d mk2
leaves . patrick’s point, ca . polaroid sx-70
fog over trees . patrick’s point, ca . canon 5d mk2
agate beach . patrick’s point, ca . canon 5d mk2
leaving patrick’s point . patrick’s point, ca . canon 5d mk2
As you can see, I was pretty enamored with the place. Apparently the beach that is there is famous for it’s agate rocks, and unfortunately I didn’t make the trek down to the beach – it would’ve delayed me longer. So I got in the car and headed north through the fog.
haze . highway 101, northern ca . canon 5d mk2
redwood burl . highway 101, northern ca . canon 5d mk2
elk . highway 101, northern ca . canon 5d mk2
the barn & road . highway 101, northern ca . canon 5d mk2
lighthouse . crescent city, ca . canon 5d mk2
the road to oregon . highway 101, northern ca . canon 5d mk2
welcome to oregon . oregon/california border . canon 5d mk2
Welcome to Oregon! Finally I made it to the border, and the minute I crossed, something happened to me internally. I don’t know what it is, and I honestly can’t explain it, but it just felt so good to be in Oregon. I can’t say I felt this way about Washington – it seemed to be only isolated to Oregon.
It just felt like home.
a glimpse of the sky . whaleshead, highway 101, oregon . canon 5d mk2
oregon coast beach . whaleshead, highway 101, oregon . polaroid 420
trees on rocks . highway 101, oregon . polaroid sx-70
beach grass . highway 101, oregon . canon 5d mk2
sea stacks . meyers creek beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
The best part about Oregon beaches are definitely the sea stacks that are on practically on every single beach. The best ones are the ones with trees on them! Plus, can I just say how happy I am to see trees everywhere? Trees just make me feel safe. :)
isaac lee patterson bridge . gold beach, oregon . canon 5d mk2
oregon coast from cape blanco . port orford, oregon . canon 5d mk2
cape blanco lighthouse . port orford, oregon . canon 5d mk2
I made a detour to visit this place – I told myself that I would see a lighthouse like this – a classic looking one – on my trip!! There is just something about lighthouses – they seem so romantic in a dreamy – out at sea sort of way. I love them. They seems to contain so much history and stories in these places.
boats . coos bay, oregon . canon 5d mk2
mccollough bridge . north bend, oregon . canon 5d mk2
into shorewood . north bend, oregon . canon 5d mk2
I don’t know what it is about these, but the below two images make me giddy. Especially those fir trees & ‘moss’ on the rock.
heceta head lighthouse . florence, oregon . canon 5d mk2
tunnel . florence, oregon . canon 5d mk2
the view from my hotel room . newport, oregon . canon 5d mk2
After 12 hours, I finally made it to my hotel in Newport, which was amazing. Every single room has a view of the ocean (and it’s a pretty good deal too!). I arrived around the time sunset would’ve been – but unfortunately the sky was not cooperating with me. Would I see a sunset at all this trip?! I stared at the ocean for a while before heading out to grab dinner (Local Ocean Seafoods – had the Fishwives Stew, which was AMAZING. The seafood was so FRESH, and I fell for mussels because of this stew – they are usually too fishy tasting for me). I went to bed that night, full, happy, & listening to the sound of the ocean.
Perfection.
Day four, here I come!
Oregon, I love you.
*
Previous road trip posts:
bolinas lagoon . bolinas, ca . canon 5d mk2
So begins day two. I meant to combine day two & three together as a post, but I had way too many images to be one post, so it will have to be two posts. :) After leaving the San Francisco bay, I encountered the Bolinas lagoon, which was one of the first spots that actually had sunshine (I was driving through some thick fog before that). The lagoon was gorgeous with the fog rolling over though. I weaved in and out of fog pretty much my entire drive along the coast.
fog between the hills . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
fog . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
floating boats . bodega bay, ca . canon 5d mk2
fog in trees . bodega bay, ca . canon 5d mk2
Bodega Bay. I really only stopped here because of Hitchcock’s movie “The Birds.” It did not disappoint.
the birds. bodega bay, ca . canon 5d mk2
california coast . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
california coast . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
the california coast road . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
a note left behind . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
california coast . somewhere along highway 1, ca . polaroid sx-70
the view in the side mirror . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
a thin layer over the ocean . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
headlands coffeehouse . fort bragg, ca . canon 5d mk2
The last time I saw the ocean before plunging inland, heading towards Highway 101. Looking at google maps, it’s only 15 miles, but ohmigoodness, that drive was by far, the most INSANE & stressful drive my entire trip. So many pin turns, and I was basically on the edge of the road. Plus it was hot. But it was gorgeous to see the lovely mountains filled with trees.
leaving the coast for the time being . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
bridge & water . somewhere along highway 1, ca . canon 5d mk2
All of the craziness was worth the drive though, to step into this world.
the giants. avenue of the giants, ca . polaroid sx-70
the giants. avenue of the giants, ca . canon 5d mk2
Avenue of the Giants. There are moments that I have, where I wish I was still driving along this road, listening to Greg Laswell, & enjoying the trees that surround me in stillness. Yea, it felt like home.
go . before eureka, ca . canon 5d mk2
Last moments of daylight, and the last time I saw the sun that day, for shortly after this image, I was plunged into fog, yet again. But I was exhilarated from the day, and looking forward to the next day, where more adventures waited. <3
*
Previous road trip posts:
accidental double exposure . richmond bridge & patrick’s point, ca . polaroid 420
So after about 8 hours of driving, I arrived late at night in Berkeley/Oakland where one of my closest friends Carol lives; pretty delirious from the drive because driving along that stretch of I-5 is the most. boring. drive. ever. Even worse at night when all you see are headlights and darkness! Plus, I’ve gone along that drive so many times that I’m pretty tired of it to be honest. But I was glad to be there. I always feel at home up north.
After a several hours of sleep, we got up and headed to breakfast, at a place called Rick & Ann’s. It was an absolutely delightful breakfast, and I loved the fact that the kitchen was an open one! After that, we strolled around the neighborhood before setting off to Oakland to explore.
rick & ann’s . berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
rick & ann’s . berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
around the neighborhood . berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
around the neighborhood . berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
jack london square . oakland, ca . polaroid sx-70
cathedral of christ the light . oakland, ca . canon 5d mk2
cathedral of christ the light . oakland, ca . canon 5d mk2
grand lake neighborhood . oakland, ca . canon 5d mk2
grand lake neighborhood . oakland, ca . canon 5d mk2
We explored several neighborhoods, which were all very fun to see & experience. The Cathedral that we visited was pretty insane to look at – the exterior is entirely of glass, but the inside was quite a surprise – it was all wood! Beautiful craftsmanship & design though :)
That evening, we visited a little eatery that I definitely think is a Berkeley gem, Gregoire Restaurant. It’s not so much as a restaurant as a charming open kitchen with a few stools and and outdoor seating. But the food is definitely what makes it because it’s French takeout!! Hands down the most gourmet takeout food I’ve ever had (and was extremely delicious). We took it back to Carol’s and ate it on plates, and I felt like we dined at a restaurant based on the quality of the food! What a wonderful way to end the first day. I will definitely have to be back again.
gregoire restaurant . berkeley, ca . iphone
The next morning I woke up at the crack of dawn, to begin the coastal portion of my trip. I would be driving from the Bay Area up to Portland along the California & Oregon coast, and I would be doing it completely alone. Needless to say, I was very excited.
As I sleepily looked out the window that morning, a gentle haze of fog greeted me over the rooftops of Berkeley.
morning . oakland/berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
morning . oakland/berkeley, ca . canon 5d mk2
What a way to start the morning. :)
So after packing my car back up, I headed off on my adventure. :) The most interesting thing I noted, was how alive everything felt. It looked so quiet and still when I looked out the window, but the town was alive and everyone was commuting as normal. Certainly a good morning. :)
As I headed towards Highway 1, I crossed the Richmond/San Rafael Bridge as the morning fog was starting to lift off the bay. Once I crossed, I looked back and was greeted by a most breathtaking sight. I immediately pulled over to take it in – the first of many, many pull overs during this trip.
richmond/san rafael bridge . san francisco bay . canon 5d mk2
pier . san francisco bay . canon 5d mk2
After taking a few photos (the first image on this post being an accidental double exposure from this day & another day) & marveling at how surreal it felt, I got back into my car, and headed off.
It was a lovely start, and I had many more miles to go.
{
