Tag: hoyt arboretum

Exploring NW Portland – Hoyt Arboretum

Posted on by Shannon Dooley

With spring peeking at us and the need to keep our social distance I wanted to share one of my favorite places with you. When I moved to Portland 19 years ago I explored this city like it was Atlantis, I wanted to take it all in and didn’t want to miss anything. After about a month of exploring I found myself at Hoyt Arboretum, what a dream. The Wildwood trail quickly became one of my favorites for a run or a slow morning stroll.

The arboretum is a curated museum with over 6,000 trees and more than 2300 different species from over 170 families, including 67 rare or endangered species. The collection was designed in 1930 by horticulturist and landscape designer John W. Duncan and I think if he could see how his vision has come to fruition he would be proud, it’s a very special place. If you live nearby I encourage you to take some time to connect with nature here, trails are still open though the visitors center is closed. If you don’t live in NW explore your local parks and trails, we’re fortunate to live in a city that has preserved the ability to connect with nature in some way in almost every neighborhood.

Please take care of yourselves, if we’re all socially responsible now we can get back to life as we knew it sooner rather than later. I’m sending love and gratitude out into the world and hoping the best for us all.

The Path to Enlightenment is Paved with Trees

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you. — Frank Lloyd Wright

Have you ever wondered why nature is so calming? When I feel stressed and about to reach my breaking point, I crave the tranquility of verdant wooded areas to help clear my head and leave me recharged.

Recent studies have proven that spending time in green spaces can lower our blood pressure and even alleviate anxiety and depression. This research has played a major roll in cities choosing to invest in parks and gardens that break up vast concrete jungles and create healthy areas for their inhabitants.

With all that in mind, it’s no wonder that the stunning southwest Portland home I had the pleasure of selling recently was so popular. In fact it went pending in just four days. As you step inside, among the open floor plan and stylish details, the huge windows showcase the forest that surrounds you. Thoughtfully designed sliding doors give way to an expansive deck surrounded by a peaceful thicket of trees.

Just moments to some of my favorite local spots to experience the restorative power of greenery. The Portland Japanese gardens, the Rose Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum are all perfect places to take a breather. Step inside and immediately feel calm, centered and focused.

If you are looking for your next dream home, or need to sell your current home to make that move, I’d love to be a resource for you! Give me a call and let’s talk about how to make that dream a reality. In the meantime take a walk outside, breath in the outdoors that surrounds you, and remember that there is only now.