A Trip to Japan

No, I haven't actually been to Japan. I have been relatively close (Philippines, back in 1999), but today I'm referring to the little piece of Asia that resides on a hillside above downtown Portland.  The Portland Japanese Gardens is a beautiful oasis above the hustle and noise of the city, and it is really quite a lovely place to take a break.  My husband commented that it would be a fabulous place to bring a book while it's raining and sit on a bench in one of the several shelters within the gardens, and simply enjoy the sound of the rain while you relax with your book in the quiet.  Over the next few posts I'm going to take you on a quick tour of the gardens so you can experience the peace of that place, too.