Portland- The Grotto

Andrew and I are in Portland this weekend.  Andrew is at a conference for work and I tagged along to have some rest and relaxation (and maybe some shopping too).  This morning after Andrew and I slept through the night (thanks mom and dad for watching my babies) I went to the The Grotto here in Portland.  It is a 62 acre botanical garden, which they call a place of solitude, peace, and prayer.  If most definitely all of these things.  It was so beautiful.  I arrived quite early and it was still a bit drizzly, so there was hardly anyone there but me.  I don't know when I have enjoyed myself more.  

First, I walk through the lower portion.  I followed the path that went through the stations of the cross

Station 1: Jesus is condemned to death.

Empty Tomb

Then I walked into into the center part and there was this beautiful Chapel.  Inside it looked like a mini cathedral.  It was very lovely.

It seemed to me that it was too small to be considered a chapel.

Every where you look there is a hidden area with something else to look at.  Jesus carries his cross.

I didn't know what this was when I first saw it, but a small sign revealed that it  is an elevator that takes you to the upper garden.  Very cool.

This is the view from the top.  I don't know if you can tell but there are two spires in the center of the picture,  that is where Andrew was at his conference.

 The Upper part includes the peace garden.  

I love the part of this plaque that invites us to find peace by entering deeply, personally, and genuinely, into the mystery of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.   

 As you walk through you are able to see visually the mysteries of Christ.

Joyful mysteries.

Sorrowful Mysteries.

Glorious Mysteries.

Luminous Mysteries.

This was just too big to get a decent picture.  It is a prayer and meditation labyrinth.

How pretty is that waterfall.

I took this picture to give an idea of how high the upper portion of the gardens  stood.

Having a wonderful time in Portland and looking forward to another good night sleep.