Portland, Oregon
The City I live in is a beautiful city in many ways. Blessed by mild climate, it is near the Pacific Ocean on a river delta. The Columbia River, fed by the Willamette River, flows past on its way to the sea. Is there anyone who would not say the sunsets where they live are the most beautiful in the world?
We do have an active volcano for a neighbor, but she (Mt. St. Helens) seems to be resting again. Just to her south, and directly east of the city, we have Mt Hood, another slumbering volcano.
Also, for those who may be concerned by the possibility, we have an earth fault or two near enough to cause some excitement if they move suddenly. Still, altogether, the area is a wonderful place to live, and the people of the city are as friendly as their environment.
There are neighborhood open-air markets where people sell and trade crafts and merchandise. There are several farmers markets where everything from fresh produce to kitchen sinks can be gotten for the right price. I enjoy going to these markets just to watch the people.
There are many parks in the downtown area, and many more in the area around the city. On nice days the people come out of the office buildings to eat lunch in the parks. The center of the city is occupied by Pioneer Square, which is called "the living room of the city," tho it would be more accurate to call it a Patio.
Early Spring, and a nice warm day, bring people into the Square: It is a great place for a casual lunch, meeting a friend, or just engaging in the popular sport of watching people be. Some enjoy lunch, The Girls Talk while The Guys kick around a hackysack.
One of these parks is a "Water Park" and on warm days you can count on seeing people jumping in to cool off. This young lady was both wet and, as her smile reveals, happy.
Above is a view from a small, intimate park, and 'Afternoon on the River' during the Blues Fesival. On the right is some mermaids playing in fresh water.
Below is a view of the contrast between a traditional style building mirrored in the black glass of a very Mod archectual design. Next is an Art Deco Style, which looks better in person.
This is a pair: Looking at my seventh floor window (the one with the yellow smiley face) from Pioneer Square, and then looking from my window down on the Square. I took the picture of my window from between the red shirt and white shirt. Yes, that is a Starbucks. The Dome with Flag is The Pioneer Courthouse, and this view is looking just south of east.
