Chit-Chats

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it's my first time to celebrate Mother's Day. And this is what i got:

(Travis wrote our baby's name as well but i have to hide it...
sorry folks but we won't disclose our baby boy's name this time.)

To my hubby: Thank you for being so thoughtful. I LOVE YOU!

It's All About Tulips

2010-04-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Since living in Portland for 3 years I haven’t been to the Tulip Farm in Woodburn. Gracious, a friend from Hillsboro posted some amazing pictures on her blog site taken from the farm recently. Flowers fascinate me and it's time to pay a visit to the tulip farm. I asked Trav to take me over to Woodburn so I could see it personally.

Yesterday we went and I believe it took us less than an hour to get there. The place is called Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm owned by the Iverson family. They started growing tulips in 1974 and initiated annual tulip festival which is celebrated every spring. Acres and acres of tulips engulfed the whole field. Vast of diverse tulip varieties with assortment hues welcomed my sight. Endless rows of each kind and mixed ones. There are also things that I didn’t miss to notice like the miniature windmill, the wooden shoes, and the old steamed tractors which the farmers used way back then. Moreover, aside from tulips, the farm also offer a country market, a gift shop, food and wines, fun activities for the kids, photo contests and various amusement for the visitors to enjoy. Of course, on that day several visitors were there. Kids enjoyed walking through the mud and riding the wooden shoe train, most had their cameras and took pictures and a few enjoyed painting.

Even though Trav and I weren’t able to wander the whole farm yet we were able to see it sufficiently. Before heading home; we ate lunch, explored a few stores within the vicinity and bought a souvenir from the gift shop.

Visit their website www.woodenshoe.com

Here are a few shots I took. Enjoy!

Banana Nut Crumb Cake

2010-04-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

I was in baking mode today and made Banana Nut Crumb Cake. Hubby says it taste good. Besides, he's always the first one to taste my cooking experiments.

World Guinness Record for Samal Island

2010-04-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Samal Island bagged a World Guinness Record... for what??? it's THE WORLD’S largest colony of Geoffrey’s Rousette Fruit Bat. Read the article below:

Samal Cave Hosts Record Bat Colony
By: Jeffrey Tupas
Philippine Daily Inquirer- Inquirer Mindanao
Date Publish: Saturday, February 13, 2010

DAVAO CITY – THE WORLD’S largest colony of Geoffrey’s Rousette Fruit Bat (Rousetteus amplexicaudatus),one of the most hated and misunderstood creatures in the Philippines, is found in the Island Garden City of Samal, according to the Guinness World Records.
Conservationists say the recognition highlighted efforts to save the bat species.
The Texas-based Bat Conservation International (BCI) described the Monfort Cave bat sanctuary in Samal as among the few known to scientists, “If the wonder of nature still exists, then the bats at Monfort Cave are one of the very few left on earth, particularly in the Philippines,” the BCI said in a report released in 2006.

Mariamarta Ruano-Graham, head of the records management team of Guinness, said in a letter to Norma Monfort, head of the Monfort Bat Cave and Conservation Foundation Inc. that the group took notice of the BCI estimate of 1.8 million bats living in the cave, which is inside the 24-hectare property owned by Monfort in Barangay Tambo in Samal.

New Record
“You have set a new Guinness World Records … and a certificate to commemorate this is included, “Graham said in her letter dated February 1. “Although the certificate does not automatically guarantee an entry in our world-famous annual record, we do consider all new records for inclusion in future Guinness World Records publication and products.”

Monfort said the recognition gave importance to the bats and highlighted their role in protecting biodiversity.

“The role of bats in the environment and the ecosystem has been so understudied and undervalued, that you will be amazed to know that the diversity of many exotic fruits coming from the Davao Region, such as the durian, has been scientifically attributed to bats as major pollinators,” she said.

“These creatures are friendly and are beneficial to the survival of the environment and the people,” Monfort said.

Urgency
She said the BCI’s assessment of the bat sanctuary in 2006 bolstered the validity of the urgent need to protect the mammals.
The BCI study, according to Monfort, showed an alarming decline in the population of the bats because of the destructive human activities, including hunting them for food or just for fun.

Monfort said that in some areas of Samal, bats were still being eaten by humans.
The BCI team, she said, even found that some sanctuaries on the island had already been deserted by the bats.

Filipino Kids Foundation of Samal

2010-02-26T11:51:00.001-08:00

Travis and I just launched a new website benifiting the kids of the Island Garden City of Samal - Philippines. This initiative is being made purposely to help those less fortunate kids of Samal to have a better education.. to have a better future. As we all know that most public schools in the Philippines needs help specially those that are located in the remote areas. Not enough books, no playgrounds, lack of school equipments, multi-grade classrooms, etc. On the other hand, some parents can't afford to send thier kids to school.

On this regard, this foundation is humbly asking your assistance through donations. Let us unleash the volunteerism in us and help these kids have a better future. Let us help them by providing them some stuffs that they need. Let us be part of this good cause and let us make them smile.

You can donate money, books, school supplies, school equipments, computers, sports equipments, etc. Kindly refer to the foundation's website for further details.

http://filipinokidsfoundationofsamal.org/

Again, your help is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Yay! It's a Baby Boy :-D

2010-02-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

Travis and I would like to share you something. We went to the doctor today and had ultrasound. The baby is normal and healthy (awesome).

Ladies and gentlemen, it's a baby BOY!!!

Philippines Visit

2010-02-20T15:45:00.001-08:00

I know it’s been a while since I posted something on my blog site. During the past 2 months, my husband and I spent our yearly vacation in the Philippines. As usual, we were delighted. To be with my family and closest friends during Christmas season is very significant to me. Pasko sa Pinas is truly different. The food, culture, the people and everything else. Climate wise, the month of December is a bit cooler and Travis prefer that kind of weather condition.

(@ d Bazaar - World Trade Center Manila)

We spent our days meeting friends; attend gatherings; going to the beach; fishing and of course, Travis went scuba diving. Even though, I can’t ride motorcycle as much as I’d like to because I’m pregnant, nonetheless, I still enjoyed the whole stay. Travis went back to the Portland weeks earlier because I had to wait for my late mom’s death anniversary on February 5th. But, I made sure I had to be home on February 9th which is my hubby’s birthday. The plane landed at Portland airport @ 11PM (huh!). Sure, I got to celebrate his birthday for maybe 2 hours (hehe).

(travis relaxing & getting to dive underwater)

Yes, I should officially pronounce that I am expecting. (Yahoo!!!) I am on my 20th week now and my tummy is showing bit by bit. (It’s strange since I haven’t had this huge belly before hehe)..However, I’m so thankful that I haven’t experienced any difficulties during my first trimester. No morning sickness, no headaches, no cravings or whatsoever. During my first ultrasound, I couldn’t imagine how I feel when I saw the heartbeat of my baby in the monitor. … Ahh.. it made me want to cry… (precious little angel) I will have another doctor’s appointment next week so I will keep you updated.

To all my family and friends in Samal, we missed you already and looking forward to be with you all next visit.

Veterans Day

2009-11-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

The Story of Veterans Day

Excerpted from ESL Teacher's Holiday Activities Kit, by Elizabeth Claire.

===================================================================
November 11 is Veterans Day. A veteran is a soldier who has served his/her country. Thirty-five countries fought in World War I. They fought for five years, from 1914 to 1918. The United States fought in the war from 1917 to 1918. Finally the countries stopped fighting. The leaders signed an armistice. They signed the armistice on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. The armistice meant that the war was over. Americans were very happy to hear about the armistice. No more soldiers would die in the war. The soldiers could come home. People went out into the streets and laughed and danced. They blew horns and whistles and rang bells. They sang songs. They thought that there would never be another war. President Wilson made November 11 a holiday to remember the end of the war. The holiday was called Armistice Day. At eleven o'clock in the morning, everyone stopped doing whatever they were doing. People were completely silent for one minute. This minute was to remember all the soldiers who have died in wars. The body of an unknown soldier was brought to America from the cemetery in France. His body was buried in a tomb at Arlington National Cemetery. It was called the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The US was in three more wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day. The bodies of three more unknown soldiers were brought to the cemetery. On Veterans Day, there are special services at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Americans remember and honor all the veterans.

===================================================================

Nonetheless, Happy Veterans Day to my husband Travis! I salute you for your courage of serving this country. I am very proud of you and you are my HERO!

Naturalized as American Citizen :-)

2009-11-10T19:43:00.000-08:00

The verdict has arrived. After 4 years of living as a Green Card holder, I have successfully completed the final leg of my immigration status. Today, I became acclimated as an American Citizen. Yahoo!

But before I celebrate, let me share how I spent my day today. I woke up early this morning to appear at my appointment at the USCIS Office located in downtown Portland. It was my Citizenship Test/Interview and I had to be there before 11:00 in the morning. So, Trav and I went to the aforementioned agency and got there an hour early. We went through an x-ray machine at the entrance for security reasons, I believed. We were told to wait in a waiting room and wait until my name is called. We sat at about 10-15 minutes and the lady in her early 30’s (I guess) called my name. Now, it’s my turn. But, I was really surprise that I didn’t feel nervous or whatsoever. She guided me to her room and there I sat on the chair in front of her desk. Before the interview, she administered an oath (me)agreeing that all of my answers to this interview are true. She asked my passport and green card and I gave it to her. She asked me if I was ready and I replied with a grin, “Yes, I think I am”. So she asked me civics related questions like:

What is one promise you can make when you become a United States citizen?
I replied – To obey the laws of the United States

Where is the Statue of Liberty?
I answered – the Statue of Liberty is on the Liberty Island

What movement tried to end racial discrimination?
My answer was “Civil Rights Movement”.

Who is the First President?
I replied – George Washington

Who is the Governor of Oregon?
Governor Ted Kolungoski

After five questions, she stopped asking me civics questions. I was guessing that if you answer 5 correct answers in a row(out of 10 questions) they stop asking anymore. Then she asked me to read the first sentence that was written on the paper. The sentence was “Who lives in the White House” and of course, that was easy enough to read. She then grabbed another piece of paper and asked me to write what she’s about to dictate. It was, “The President lives in the White House”. Therefore, I wrote what she told me on the sheet of paper and that’s it. “Pretty easy wasn’t it,” she told me. I said, “Yes, it was.”

She typed a little bit on her computer and continues asking me about the stuffs that I wrote on my application letter. She asked me my real name, my husband’s real name, my birthday. She even greeted me belated happy birthday since my birthday was 4 days ago. Asked me if I have committed any crimes since becoming a resident. Asked me how many times I travelled out of the United States since becoming a permanent resident. Asked my current address, my home phone number, if I file taxes every year, if I’m willing to serve the nation if needed and defend the constitution of the United States. As usual, I answered all of them truthfully.

After that, she grabbed the paper from the computer printer and showed me if the items written were all correct and not misspelled. It composed of my full name, my birth date, my country of origin my alien registration number, etc. She gave me the 2 (2x2) photos that I sent together with my application and had me signed on the sides on both of the IDs. Followed by a paper saying that it was my receipt or some sort that I have passed the Citizenship Test/Interview. I even asked her if she has any idea on when can I take the oath, she replied “You are going to have your oath taking today at 2PM.” I was very ecstatic to hear about it. I never thought it was that soon. She then stamped my application "APPROVED" and gave me a letter stating that I will have to take an oath that same day. Finally, she congratulated me for passing the test/interview and that I can apply for a US passport after the oath taking ceremony and can visit Philippines anytime. We shook hands and I thanked her for being so polite towards me and the whole interview process. She replied, “Well, thanks for making it easy on me”. I thought, it was a nice compliment. I think, the whole process only took 20 minutes or so. Yet, she didn't ask for any documents or whatsoever. Perhaps, it depends on how easy or complex each case may be.

Below are the photos during the oath taking ceremony.

I'm so thankful for this oppurtunity. And, I would like to thank my ever loving husband for all the support he had given me after all the processes that we went through since moving from the Philippines.

Mah Birthday....

2009-11-07T12:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday..(Nov. 6) I really didn't do anything special because I am still anxious about my oncoming US Citizenship Test/Interview on the 10th. Nevertheless, my loving husband cooked me dinner. He gave me a few mementos and surprised me with a little chocolate cake as well. Thank you Babe, you are the best!

Oh, did I forget to tell you my age?? Never mind... All i know is that I’m still young. Hahaha!

trav prepared this..

mini-chocolate cake..we don't need more calories :-)

1-2-3 blow!

Ex-President's Presidential Bid... Again???

2009-10-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

October 21, 2009 - Manila Philippines

Ex-President Joseph Estrada declares to run for the presidency in 2010 national elections. My first reaction was…. REALLY? What a shame… What was he thinking? After being convicted of plunder yet he does still have the face to bid his candidacy to the Filipino people? I mean what does he want to prove this time? That he was innocent and will try recouping the dignity that he lost? His time was over. He tainted his term with a substantial abomination that no one will ever forget. In fact, it was the people of this ailing country who expelled him from his seat. But why run again? Perhaps, considering that he was once this country’s superior, he most likely assumed that he’s still having the authority to accomplish the things that he was unable to finish.

Frankly, at this moment I don’t know what to say. There are a number of politicians aspiring for the same position. Needless to say they are all TRAPO (traditional politicians). Personally, I already give up trusting any of them. Maybe there are a few who are truthful to their jobs yet most of them are deceitful and corrupt. No wonder Philippines belong to the most corrupt nations in the world. Good job! (NOT!!)

Well, I am just hoping that Filipinos will scrutinize these aspirants and will vote whose best for the country. Voting Education, everyone! Let’s see what will be the outcome. For sure, next election will be a haywire and corrupt as usual.

On Joseph Estrada? I don’t know. I'd rather say, definitely not. Not for me. Remember that i am just giving my own personal opinion and i don't intend to inflict somebody else's decision on this matter. Besides, I am just exploiting my freedom of speech. :-)

Wonder Gays

2009-10-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

This is the Visayan Version of "Nobody" as popularized by Wonder Girls. No offense to gays...but this video will make you laugh... Enjoy!

Hangout

2009-09-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

My Portland friends says it's time to hangout once again. Emily suggested to meet at the mall and all of us agreed. Of course, when Pinays go to the malls they will just window shop. Nevertheless, Emily, Betsy and Selah bought a few stuffs. Cheryl couldn't find a US Bank ATM machine until we were about to leave...(too late cheryl)... Me? Well, I didn't get any. Why? Hmm Let's see.. I don't have money (kuripot)? or I don't need something to buy? Maybe both... hahaha

Aside from wandering around the mall, Emily took us to lunch/dinner because she said her birthday is coming and she got a job (celebration...yehey!). Thank you, Ems.

When Calamity Strikes

2009-09-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

The worst tropical depression hits the Philippines. Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana Storm) hammered the Metro Manila areas. Hundreds of thousands of residents were affected. Many people are dead and thousands were brought to the hospitals and numbers of people went missing. Residents of the distressed areas were evacuated to higher grounds. Some stayed at evacuation centers. Families lost their homes, perhaps their loved ones, their livelihoods, their own possessions in general. It's very devastating when calamities like this strikes. There's nothing you can do to stop it other than to assume its going to create danger and devasation for those who are affected.

But, we believe Filipinos are strong and will never give up. Don't lose hope. Don't lose faith. Keep praying. Keep helping and keep sharing.

My utmost sympathy to the victims and to those who are grieving. Let us pray for them.

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

Our Labor Day weekend was spent on the Columbia River. We took our boat and did a little bit of fishing. We hooked our boat on one of the docks alongside the river and stayed overnight. You might be wondering where we slept? Our boat has a cuddy cabin so that there is a space for us to sleep underneath. It was a good sleep over at the river. Or, I should say, it could be a better sleep over if the trains don't blow their horns all the time.

This shot was taken on the night of Labor Day.

Newborn Nephew

2009-08-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

Recently, my sister just gave birth to a healthy baby boy. She named it Kian Jay. To my Ate and her family, congratulations!

Baby Kian

Apart

2009-08-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

Travis left for Arizona 2 days ago. He's going to meet an investor and look at some properties while over there. I didn't go with him because Arizona is too hot for me and plane tickets are just ridiculous these days. So I told him, I rather stay at home and wait for his calls/updates whenever. Not until today, I realized that being him far away is unusual for me. It's seems that 1 character in the house is missing. I don't have somebody to chat around. I don't have somebody to ask for a few favors (haha). I don't have somebody to hug and cuddle anytime i want to. I guess I just have to admit that there are times we have to be apart. That I will be fine and I will survive. Just like some people say, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder". I think it's true because i always miss Trav most of the time he's not around (aahh). Oopss, let's keep this a secret or he gets excited. (lol)

Well, I can't wait until my husband gets home....

Meet-up

2009-08-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

Our first meet-up was a success. It was sort of a potluck lunch to which everybody brings various foods to be shared. I prepared chicken adobo and everybody else brought their own treats as well. We had our lunch and we talked a lot. Exchanged a few stories and shared several laughs. Filipino food was great as usual. Our tummies were full when everybody came into a decision to watch a movie. We settled on the couch and watched the “Orphan”. It’s sort of a drama/horror film which was interesting.

Selah, had to go home early and her husband picked her up. Oh, I have to mention that I was stung by a bee while sitting on the porch. Ouch! My thigh is still swollen after 2 days.

I had to say, our first get together was great and I couldn’t wait for the upcoming gatherings. Thank you Betsy & Kip for being the host...

PDX Acquaintances

2009-08-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Last week, I communicated a few Filipina gals in Portland area. Majority speaks bisaya so it’s a plus. Emily and Cheryl live nearby while Betsy and Selah is on the other side of town. We correspond through Friendster (thanks FS) and decided one day that we are going to have our first meet-up at Betsy’s house in Lake Oswego.

I can’t wait to meet these girls personally and make friends with them. See you on Wednesday, ladies!

Biometrics Appointment

2009-08-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

Been to the Portland USCIS Office today. I had my fingerprint done as a requirement for the US citizenship application process. Then, the officer gave me a book to learn about the United States. It's the Quick Civic Lessons for the New Naturalization Test. Therefore, i have to study these lessons so that i will have greater chances of passing the interview later on. Study. Study. Study. Hopefully, i will have my interview in 2 months. Cross my fingers.

Corazon C. Aquino

2009-08-05T12:06:00.000-07:00

Corazon C. Aquino (January 25, 1933 – August 1, 2009)

the 11th President of the Philippines

the first female president of the Philippines and the first female president of any country in Asia

nominated to receive the Nobel Peace Price

was named by Time Magazine as Woman of the Year (1986)

issued Presidential Proclamation 131 and Executive Order 229 (leads to Agrarian Reform Law)

was cited as one of 100 Women Who Shaped World History

Corazon C. Aquino: Icon of Philippine Democracy

Salamat Po!

Hawaii Trip

2009-07-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in my previous blog that i will post pictures of our Hawaii Trip. Here are a few pictures during our 7-day vacation/anniversary to Waikiki, Hawaii. (Sorry, i can't post all of them).

Part of the sprawling Waikiki Beach

(photo taken from our hotel)

Germaine's Luau

(A show representing the Hawaiian culture)

My dinner plate
(forget what it's called but super delicious)

Learning to Surf
(it's very exhausting)

Trav hooked a tuna during his fishing trip

The statue behind is one of Hawaii's surfing legend

At the Pearl Harbor

July 4th

2009-07-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

July 4th is Independence Day in the US. It's a national holiday just like every other country that commemorates the same ocassion. Certain events are mostly held by communities like concerts, patriotic ceremonies, state fairs, charitable exibits, etc. In downtown Portland, there is always Blues/Jazz Festival every year. This time, we decided to dock our boat in front of the festival venue since it's alongside Willamette River. So, we docked our boat for 3 days and just enjoyed listening the music and meet a few people around. In fact, we meet Daniel and Allene (a filipina) a couple from Scapoose, Washington. We chatted and got to know each other.

Fireworks display happens on the evening of July 4th. I have to admit it was my first time to watch fireworks display that long.... about 30 minutes of fireworks show...whow!! Very fascinating and breathtaking. It was indeed a very nice 4th of July experience. God Bless America!

Wedding Anniversary Plans

2009-07-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

On the 23rd of July, it’ll be exactly 4 years that Trav and I got married. Has it been that long? Oh my, time goes by so fast. Anyway, Trav asked me if I wanted to spend our anniversary in Mexico or Hawaii… Oh gush, decisions…decisions…. decisions… Trav have been to Maui and Conzumel, Mexico before but I have not. We both love beaches. We adore outdoor activities yet both places offer the things that we like to do.

Therefore, I did a little bit of research. I have learned that Mexico is still dealing with the H1N1 (swine flu) epidemic. So, there goes my quick conclusion. We are going to Hawaii… Besides, we can’t afford ourselves getting sick after all.

Hawaii, here we come!

(Will post pictures later)

Goodbye to MJ

2009-06-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson "King of Pop" dies at 50 after suffering cardiac arrest. It's just so shocking when a person dies unexpectedly. A few months back, Michael just announced his comeback tour called "This Is It" and did vigorous rehearsals thereafter until learning the sad news today about his sudden death. People all over the world are just saddened and shocked about his death.

Michael Jackson is a star the world could not ignore. He's survived with three children: Prince, Paris and Blanket.

Goodbye to the King of Pop. You may rest in peace.

Camping Week

2009-06-22T15:28:00.000-07:00

Last week was a camping week. Travis decided that we are going camping somewhere in Central Oregon. Oh boy, not the long drives again. But wait a minute, why am I complaining? I’m not even in charge of the wheels. I’m used to being a passenger all the time which makes it more relaxing. Sunday, the camper is almost ready and Travis almost loaded all the things that we need. We left house Monday morning and all the way we went. It took us at least 4 hours before reaching our destination.

Jasper Point Campsite is one of the recreation sites in Prineville Reservoir State Park. The lake was enormous. My first impression was, “big lake on top of the mountains?” Oh well, I don’t want to challenge myself knowing the story behind it. All I know is that we are going camping on the lake. After all, it was a nice place. Pretty atmosphere, felt the cool breeze most of the time, juniper trees covered the mountains, and the good weather was a big bonus.

I can still remember when we use a small tent for camping. It’s a hassle sometimes getting in and out and the dusts trying to get inside. Until, last year we bought a pop-up camper. It has 2 pull-up beds, a sink, 2 burner stove, porta-potty, small fridge, a heater and AC. Oh yes, more convenient than the small tent. Just tow the camper at the back of the truck and you’re all set.

When you’re camping you’ll do different activities. We brought our mountain bikes with us so we went biking. Otherwise, just stay in the camp and relax, relax, and relax. Although, we did a little bit of fishing. Or I should say, I did a little bit of fishing while Travis enjoyed fishing most of the time. Fishing gets me fed up easy. I don’t have patience at all. Much more when I don’t catch any. I just realized that most of the time fishing in America is considered a hobby or just for fun unlike in the Philippines where fishermen take fishing as another way of providing food to the table if not selling it for extra income. Back to our fishing, while sitting on the rock, I saw 3 fishes and nibbling on my hook. I was so excited and Trav told me to wait until the fish bite on it. I felt the line got heavier and guess what… I caught a small fish. I reeled my line in and yes… I got one. It’s called a crappie fish. Of course, Trav caught one as well. And we just throw it back to the water since they are way too small to keep.

To the crooked river, we went. It’s about an hour drive from the camp. And you guessed it, Trav went fishing again. Caught a few and enjoyed it. I just stayed on the bank of the river while taking pictures. I love taking pictures. Oh, did I mention I saw two little snakes? I don’t like snakes. You should see me how long I jumped the very moment I saw those snakes. They are little snakes like baby snakes but still they are snakes. Er... I just have goose bumps talking about it.

Wednesday night, Mick (Trav’s step-dad) and his family went over and meet us for dinner. I prepared chicken adobo, pork chop, steamed green beans, potato salad and a few drinks. We had a nice time just chatting. But they had to leave that night since they have to work early the next morning.

We moved out thursday at noon and head our way back home. We decided to take the scenic route. It’s a longer trip but you’d be able to see a lot of beautiful sceneries. Once Travis noticed a river or a creek near the highway, he would make a stop and go fishing as expected. We got home before dinner time. Unfortunately, we had to unpack our stuffs again. That’s the reality of camping trips. Pack and unpack.

We spent four days in the mountain. I can say, it was a nice out-of-town trip after all. Thumbs up to Trav for convincing me to get out of Portland once in a while.

Japanese Garden Visit

2009-06-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to visit the Japanese Garden in Portland. One fine morning, Trav and I drove over to Washington Park where the garden is located. We got there before 10AM so that we'd be able to join the morning tour. From one garden to another the guide was demonstrating the very detail of each garden. There were 5 garden styles namely; The Tea Garden, the Strolling Garden, the Natural Garden, the Sand and Stone Garden and the Flat Garden. Every garden set-up just fascinates me. The architectures, waterfalls, the zigzag bridge, the ponds, the flowers, the trees, the whole setting. So peaceful and relaxing... For me, the Strolling Garden is the best. It's so captivating.

The said garden, is noted as one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens created outside Japan. Created by Professor Takuma Tono in 1963, though the public had their first glimpse in 1967.

Here are some pictures that i took:

The carved stone below is a one of the most precious structures in the garden. It's a gift from a renowned Japanese haiku poet, Suoshi Mizuhara upon his visit to the Japanese Garden in 1966. The characters written on the stone translates as:

"Here, miles from Japan

I stand as if warmed by the

Spring sunshine of home"

For more information, visit their website at: http://japanesegarden.com/