Hood River

In spite of the three hour time difference our bodies were cooperative and we slept until a respectable 7 AM.  We left Gresham and traveled a few miles to the entrance of the Columbia River Gorge.  Signs in Troutdale, Oregon proudly proclaim that the small village is the "gateway to the gorge. "

The Columbia River Highway winds around the body of water reflected in its name and through a large state park. 

According to a tiny sign nearby, these are Saint John's Wart.  They grow wild all through the valley.



Multnomah Falls



Columbia River Gorge.  Incidentally, in the Pacific Northwest it is fairly common to start the day with some cloud cover.  It burns off between 10 AM and Noon depending on the day.

We took in plenty of the scenery before heading to Hood River late in the afternoon where Jan enjoyed some wine tasting.  Check Facebook for evidence of that.  She enjoyed the red wines and I thought the cheese was first rate.

Jan found a Bed and Breakfast that is part of a farm called Sakura Ridge.  The room faces Mount Hood.  You couldn’t ask for a more stunning vista.  We hurried through a delicious dinner at Celilo’s in the village of Hood River to get back to our sheep farm to watch the sun set. 

Our side of the Sakura Ridge Lodge.  We are staying in the Orchard Room.  There are pear trees all around us.



Mount Hood at sunset

The room is elegant, tastefully decorated and very comfortable.  It is so quiet.  A soft breeze and sheep bleating periodically, although they are headed to their quarters for the night. 

I can’t wait to see the star field!

Tomorrow we drive to Bend, Oregon to spend some time with friends.