The Oregon south to central coast is noted for its magnificent sand dunes, some reaching 500 feet in height. I think the fact that the pine and spruce forests intersperse with the dunes and that lakes dot the valleys along the coast together serve to give this portion of the west coast a distinct feel. The villages along the coast are centered in fishing and have a nautical ambiance with clam chowder, fish stuffed with crab, and fish and chips dominating the menus.
I saw sand drifting onto Highway 101–the coastal road in Oregon–and quickly pulled over. I looked at the dune and said to Kathy, “Let’s climb it.” At first she was hesitant since it was tall and steep. I told her if we fell, it was soft sand, so off and up we went. Half way up we discovered a number of fully ripe fruited blackberry bushes growing on the edge of the dune. What a treat! The thing about sand dunes is that, since the sand is loose, you slide backwards; so you don’t make much progress. The struggle upwards–probably about 60 feet–was worth the effort as we were able to see sand dunes interspersed with forest stretch out before us. The way down was easer to navigate–gravity helped.
Who knew that Oregon has covered bridges? We took a detour to see one and soon found ourselves on gravel roads among vineyards and commercial Christmas tree farms. The bridge was white and barn-like with thick wooden boards for flooring. It was fun to drive across its one lane.
Oregon has great natural beauty and is clean, clean, clean. WEG
kgraumann
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I am working on the last of my hand picked 2012 blackberries from OR. The huckleberries are long gone. Be sure to look for huckleberries as they’re ripe when blackberries are.
Nora in NOLA
I’m not sure I know what huckleberries look like 🙂 I will look for then at the farmer’s market. Thanks for the advice.
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WOW how exciting. Cathy is defininitly as venturesome as you. So enjoy your adventures. Miss you guys at church , know The Lord is with you as you enjoy your retirement.
Thanks Linda!
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When I was a child, my family spent many vacations on the Oregon Coast, mostly in Cannon Beach, close to Haystack Rock. Jana and I also honeymooned there and plan to spend next year there for her 60th birthday. I attended my last Keith Green concert close to Tillamook but a littel inland – and took my kids to a Quaker Camp close to Twin Peaks. Thank you for jogging my memory as you are makinig some great ones all your own. Love you, Roger l& Jana.
Love you guys and you and Jans are often in my thoughts, especially now. We will be in Tillamook Thursday–we hope to take the cheese tour.
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Wish I were in your luggage. This sounds wonderful! Have fun.
Yea Dianne!
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