ROLLING ALONG

Next stop in my wandering life -- Portland, Oregon. Excited about the move to a historic art deco apartment even though its in a large city. But tis a city that is vibrant, active, creative, artsy and above all a well planned large city. Yes, country mouse goes to the city. Lots to see and do with my first and foremost artificial friend -- who goes by the name of "Rebel."

Will be off for a couple weeks getting moved and settled. Til than.

HOT PAD FOR AN OLD IRON -- "MAKE DO"

Found attached to an old wooden ironing board -- being used as a hot pad for an iron. Commercial truck licence almost hundred years old. Good example of a "make do."

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AT PIONEER PARK

This group of Saudi students embraced me in their lively talk and manners as I took their photos. They are friends -- enrolled at Portland State University -- most are freshmen at the school. A wonderful bunch of young men -- conversation was easy and fun. 

Pioneer Park, Portland Oregon

PIONEER PARK FRIENDS

About a month ago I visited Pioneer Park, a large community place,  located in the center of Portland, Oregon. I took lots of photographs in the park that day. Today's photos are part of that collection. These two gentlemen graciously allowed me to to take their photos as they were sitting and chatting with each other -- enjoying the day. 

They told me they were originally from different states-- Arkansas and Florida. Now both are residents of Portland. They both seemed to agree that it was a very friendly and convenient place to live even though Portland is major large city. I agreed with them -- myself finding it a very lively and friendly city.  

LONG AGO IN KENTUCKY

Once upon a time this was a busy porch where folks stepped up through the double doors into this general store. Still standing today, yet vacant of goods -- its vintage facade reminds the town's old-timers of its former activity. Their memories light up. And then there are those that think it is an eyesore. What do you think? 

TINY COTTAGE WITH BLUE SHUTTERS

Found this sweetheart of a cottage on one of the main roads through Aurora, Oregon. It's just the right size for one person to live in or perhaps could be used as a studio/workshop for some talented artist. I called this place a cottage in the post's title because that is how I saw it. Whatever its use it added to the historic ambiance of the road on which it was located.  

Located in the gable of the cottage was this   

window insert of antique carmel glass.

OLD TOWN AURORA, OREGON

This small quaint town maintains its vintage feeling from the past through its architecture. I felt the structures had lots of contrasting lines and angles that reflected the energy of the town.