A walk in the park

 

Marquam Park, Portland, courtesy of Dane Fishbaugh

Sometimes going green can be as easy as a walk in the park.  As the summer sun layers heat in waves upon the city, what better way to keep cool (and green) than by paying a visit to your local park? Not only is the air fifteen degrees cooler in the shade, but the sounds and smells of nature are truly rejuvenating to the harried urban spirit- a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. 

We lucky Portlanders have no excuse for not getting out of the air conditioning as Portland has an absolute wealth of wonderful city parks. In fact, the City of Roses boasts both the largest and smallest parks within a city limit. It seems that every neighborhood claims it own little oasis – mine is the lovely Mt. Tabor, an inactive volcano- within easy walking distance.   

Wherever you are, your computer won’t miss you while your gone, and getting out of the concrete jungle for a moment is never a bad thing. You just may find yourself going back for more.