Embraced, Enamored, & Engaged at Graham Oaks

Join me as I share a piece of my heart - a super special park and area that I've been mostly keeping to myself for years. Release expectations, but we will likely encounter sparrows, warblers, birds of prey, woodpeckers, and a bunch of other birds. We will probably encounter other wildlife as well - I see deer almost every time I visit! Nesting and/or fledgling birds of multiple bird species are also possible.

Where to meet/parking: At 7am, we will meet at the main parking lot picnic tables (at the gazebo behind the bathrooms) - at the Gateway Trailhead for intros, stretches, and grounding breaths, complete with accessible parking spots, accessible toilets, a water fountain, and a bus stop right in the parking lot! The parking lot isn't the biggest, so carpooling/public transit is encouraged. However, there is nearby street parking available as well. Being there somewhat early, it hopefully won't be a problem anyways!

What to expect: We will start by walking through an oak savanna adorned with various flowers, such as Lupines, Camas, Daisies, and more. From there, we'll head into a complex, lush, mixed forest. We will also explore riparian corridors along a creek. Come for the birds - stay for the mindfulness; in true Valita fashion, meditative moments will be sprinkled throughout the outing that intentionally direct all of our senses. I will also lead a guided meditation either before or after birding. The focus of the meditation: feeling held, supported, and in love with life as we work our way up from root to heart chakra. For those who have time, we will wrap up at Lux Sucre Bakery + Cafe (31840 SW Charbonneau Dr #A, Wilsonville, OR 97070) for brunch and social/debrief from about 10am-12pm.

Trail conditions, length, and exposure: Trails are mostly flat and consist of pavement, dirt, packed gravel, and metal footbridge. We will walk about 2 miles, give or take. There will be multiple opportunities to sit and rest. Some of the outing will be in full sun exposure, and some will be in shaded woods.

What to bring: Snacks, water, any gear that you'd like (if any - I'll have an extra pair of binoculars), any mat, blanket, towel, cushion you'd like to meditate on (I will provide some blankets, though! And benches are available), field guide/app if desired, sunscreen, and weather appropriate clothes (hat, sunglasses, rain jacket, etc - I'm not sure of the weather at the moment.)

I am happy to drive up to 3 people who are willing to meet at my house in Forest Grove at 6am. Call or text (541) 968-9177 to set that up.