I spy joy in colorful row houses

Row houses on Glisan

One of my new year’s resolutions is to “be awake to beauty and aware of magnificence.”

On an errand for work, I happened upon on opportunity to fulfill that resolution: this fabulous set of row houses, painted in vibrant colors.  I drove around the block twice looking for a place to pull over and take a photo.

Even on a gray, rainy Portland day, these houses popped from the obvious pride and care with which they were painted. I took a few photos and just stood for several minutes soaking in the beauty.  A passer-by seeing me with camera in hand commented, “I work across the street and see people taking pictures of those houses all the time.”

It’s no wonder these houses bring joy to so many.  The collective display is truly magnificent.  Vibrant, happy colors applied in such detailed and caring fashion. It makes me smile.  And apparently many others.