I Smelled Roses in Portland, Oregon

     To reward yourself for your accomplishment creates more accomplishment. To celebrate those occasions and small victories. You deserve that. 

     

     After my flight attendant recurrent training in July, I headed to Portland, Oregon, to reward myself for my first anniversary as a Flight Attendant. That's a milestone to celebrate!

     My train ride from the airport to the hotel was an hour away. It was far but convenient. I enjoyed the view outside the train until the sun set on the horizon. I had to get off at the Sunset station, and my hotel was located at sunset boulevard. What a coincidence! 

      As usual, I struggled with directions to the hotel, and I had to ask some people on the train. People were friendly to show me the way. Unfortunately, the hotel was on the other side of the highway from the train station. So I had to cross a bridge and walk on a road with no people around while dragging my luggage. It was such an experience ... a walking experience!

      My first agenda the following morning was the International Rose Garden. I was happy that I decided to see this place. This garden is one of the best gardens I've seen and the highlight of my trip. I can spend a day here and just relax. Thanks to another Filipina tourist who took a favorite photo of me on the grass surrounded by a bed of roses!

     At Shakespeare Garden, Shakespeare says, "Of all flowers, I think a rose is the best." Who doesn't love a rose? Who doesn't want to receive roses? It is a symbol of love, not only for lovers but for any kind of relationship. 

     The garden shop sells flowers with inspiring notes. One bouquet says, "The world is a rose, smell it and pass it to your friends." Isn't that a nice message?

       Later that afternoon, I explored downtown and other parts of the city via train. One thing I appreciated on this trip was the convenience of the commute. I didn't spend much on transportation. The train was inexpensive. 

      A couple of events were happening in Portland, including some concerts and games. It was a busy weekend despite the hot weather. First, I went to Old Town Saturday World Market and had a little shopping and a lot of window shopping. Then, I enjoyed a Vietnamese lunch and handmade ice cream. Then, I sat at the park and watched people around. That was a fun day!

     I could have seen more beautiful places in Portland, but I thought that the International Rose Garden was already a wonderful place and experience. I was satisfied and happy with what I saw. 

      Any garden is a place of beauty and tranquility. It is an excellent place to meditate and read a book, at least for me. I encourage you sometimes to slow down and appreciate the beauty around you. As the old saying goes, "Stop and smell the roses."