Nothing like a gorgeous train ride to kick off a long Thanksgiving weekend. The weather in Portland was crisp and clear, with Mount Hood outlined by the bright blue sky and yellow trees on the horizon.

I love taking the train because it allows the time to decompress and prep for vacation; like a buffer zone between everyday life and relax time. A lunch of goat cheese, salami and satsumas along with a thermos of cider makes that trip even more perfect.

And of course on beautiful late autumn days, you get amazing views like this one: