Category: travel

  • A hallowed place

    The McKenzie River in Oregon flows from snowmelt filtered through the unique volcanic aquifer of the Cascades into icy springs that feed Clear Lake. To walk the trail around that lake, to see clear water that flows out of the lake to become the river that provides Eugene with its drinking water, that’s an experience.…

  • Around the bend, an old friend and a new one

    First it was the rugosa roses. If you don’t know them, that’s a joy in store. The first time you inhale the aroma, you just sigh and say, “Now that’s a rose!” They are unique, with new plants shooting up from the roots and forming rangy beds (not everybody likes this; they do roam). The…

  • Pause, turn around, be surprised

    Our last night in London, we had run out of steam. We’d packed in a full touristy day, then ridden the ferry by Westminster at dusk and walked the square. We were headed for the hotel and packing, and a big day of train travel to Paris the next morning. I don’t know what made…