Exit summer
I really enjoy summer out here in the Pacific NW. Even if there was crazy weather this year including a hailstorm, record-breaking 100 degree days and various cold spells. We had a pretty busy summer what with moving to a new city, finding jobs, apartment, bike commuting and exploring Portland. We didn’t get to rock climb yet but it’s still warm out so there may be time (if I remember how to climb-it’s been a year!).
Summer bounty
I had a few u-pick adventures this summer that were really fun over on Sauvie Island. It’s an island about 30 minutes outside of the city and it’s all agricultural. The berry crop was fantastic and I got together with a group of friends and we jammed, canned, baked and cooked up a storm. Now I’m looking forward to apple and pumpkin season. Mmm, pie!
Matt conquers the falls
We did get a good hike in recently at Silver Falls State Park. It’s a “must-do” according to all the books and even though it’s crowded at the trailhead, it’s worth it. 8.5 mile loop, 10 waterfalls. Most of them were swimmable, but I only jumped in one because the water was quite icy. The park was only about an hour and a half from Portland and we camped with friends at the park campground, which was a nice break after a day of hiking. Once we were about a mile into the trail, the crowds petered out and we enjoyed the maintained trails and great views. I miss the woods, I plan to get out and explore more this fall.