Hey, Portland's just been named one of the Top 10 Cities in America for walking -- No. 4, to be exact. (Blugene is No. 8.)

As well it should. Just the other day our four-year-old and I took a walk in the late afternoon sun, about 10 blocks or so over to the coffee shop and library branch. Through her eyes, I saw all sorts of things that I otherwise would have blown right by. When we got home with all our great finds, I realized it was the best thing I'd done in quite a while.

Don't get too cocky, though, folks. Jersey City is No. 9, and having gone to school and worked there for nine years, I can tell you that there are parts of that town where you should run, not walk, and it's not for the recreational benefit.

UPDATE, 6:06 p.m.: I am reminded that there is an entire blog devoted to walking around the Rose City.