At least I made you smile…

Ok, so I was at the grocery store today, and this guy in the checkout line struck up a conversation with me. Anyway – to make a long story short, he wound up asking if I wanted to grab a coffee. I politely declined, as my days are numbered here in Portland (and, more importantly, I was running late to a company event I agreed to volunteer at), anyway – he responded back with… “that’s OK, at least I made you smile.” I’m not sure why, but those words really resonated with me – because, as my time here in Oregon comes to a close, I can’t help but reflect on my summer in the Northwest … and smile.

At every corner, there is something beautiful to take note of. The sunbeams breaking through clouds illuminating sections of green, lush hills, vibrant and beautiful flowers blooming around, the friendly smile and demeanor of most people here in Oregon, kids playing in the grass – laughing without a care in the world and breathtaking views of mountain vistas, dense forests, powerful waterfalls and jagged, rough yet incredible coastlines.

This place is simply priceless. I truly feel as if I’ve been able to take my foot off the accelerator for a few months, breathe, and literally smell the roses. It’s nice to stop running long enough to take a look at the beauty around you. I’ve explored and ventured into new territory, hiking mountains, caves, kayaking into Canadian waters of the North Pacific and explored the bustling downtowns of both Portland and Seattle.

So, with less than a week before I head back to the scorching desert of Arizona, I can honestly say that yes… you DID make me smile….