Oregon the Beautiful
by Dena Hart
Vancouver, WA
I was born and raised primarily in Bend, Oregon. Even as a child I knew I was living a special place. We lived on the outskirts of town on some land. I used to love walking to the airport when I was little, lay on my back, and watch the planes that may be flying that day. As I grew older I never lost that interest. The crystal blue skies seemed to beckon the planes to visit, so welcoming.
Later, whether it was running up Pilot Butte for cross country practice, or visiting any of the wonders of Oregon- Lava Butte, Crater Lake, Fort Rock (where we searched for many an arrowhead), skiing Mt. Bachelor…or staying in our own yard, I felt very fortunate to be living in such a beautifully diverse state. I have moved away and lived back East and in the Southwest, and while they have their own beauty, Oregon will always be my home.
