In a Piece of Paradise

What a wonderful experience it was to drive over and through the winding hills from Portland into the itty-bitty town of Carlton. From one vineyard to the next, past hazelnuts and flowering orchards. Classical music on in the car, perfect little scene out of some cute movie.

Felix has been the best host imaginable, and not to mention the best cook imaginable. The work required is perfect and beautiful. From shoot thinning to transplanting to weeding. Being able to wake up and get to work through the afternoon, then to sit back and admire the land around you is the best reward. Even better is knowing that you'll be feasting on simple gourmet items straight from the garden, paired with a glass of one of the house wines.

Bottom line. Great. Simple. Earthly. Beautiful.

And to follow up on the trip from CdA to Portland... Was tired from staying up planning, so, napped early on and was set to go after. Great drive, especially when you get into Oregon and the trees start to thicken and the character of the towns build in quality. Wanted to stop for a picture op at Multnomah Falls, however it was getting dark and I rushed onto the big city. Spent the night at a great friend's house and went on my way the next morning.

The animals here are hilarious, add a dynamic flavor to the experience. Spent time in and around McMinnville today and loved it as well, picked up some used books and saw a bit of the funny "Alien Invasion" festival that is starting this evening. Plan to go back for the farmer's market!

Will post photos later, but before I leave definitely. Thank you all! Love you.

“What you’ve done becomes the judge of what you’re going to do – especially in other people’s minds. When you’re traveling, you are what you are right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.” – William Least Heat Moon

Official Schedule

With this entry I will officially state the clear details for my departure and schedule through July.

I have been convinced to take my car down with me. I will leave June 16th (a week away!!) late morning, and arrive in Portland early evening. From there I will leave "old blue" ( haha) at a friend's house in town and take my things with me to Carlton, via community transport, that night.  

Carlo and Julian Winery is my official first host site for 2 weeks until the 1st of June. Joining back up with my car and spare supplies/food etc on the 2nd will begin my second span of time at Cascadia Chestnuts through the 17th. Then there is a buffer of 5 days before I drive to Nehalem to work at Lunasea Farms from June 23rd-July 7th. My handful of days will hopefully be spent going on photo shoots with my new-found friend and her family in and around Portland. On the 8th of July is when I am expected to be at Fairfield Farm in Corvallis. I am scheduled to work there until the 22nd.

When I have completed my stay at each of the farms I will drive to Portland again and make my pilgrimage to North Idaho for a week and a half's stay; just in time for family reunion and photo shoots. ;) As the times get nearer I will add my plans for August.

Cant wait until I get to show you all photo proof from the great excursion!

**I have obtained almost all necessary equipment. Tested the tent and new sleeping bag + cot. I need to find a way to keep my feet just as warm as the rest of my body.... but everything should be fine.Want to find a pair of inexpensive, yet efficient, thin khaki shorts to pack. Since I will be doing most of my laundry with my own basic resources I am trying to pack quick-drying items and such.

I'll update another on the day I leave!
-Jaida

                           "Either you run the day or the day runs you." - Jim Rohn