Getting ready for a “big” trip is always an exercise in organization, anticipation and anxiety. This weekend I have been knee deep in all three. But I am happy to report that, with the exception of food, I am all packed for our 7 days on the West Coast Trail and partially packed for the 5 days that will be scattered between Seattle, Victoria, Port Renfrew and Vancouver. Whew, with only a few days to go and a work related trip to Grand Rapids in between, I am beginning to sweat the small stuff.
Polishing and re-weatherproofing the leather of my boots. The key to happy hiker feet is a pair of comfortable, well cared for boots!
Last week I spent Thursday in Portland (for work). The day was bookended by two days of gruesome travel, including two wakeup calls at 4:15 am (Wednesday and Friday) and airline mechanical problems. But Portland…priceless! It is quickly becoming my favorite city.
My flight arrived at 6:30 pm on Wednesday. Dave and I immediately headed to Salty’s on the Columbia Seafood Grill (3839 N.E. Marine Drive, Portland). Although I had a delicious dinner of wild salmon, wilted spinach and garlic mashed potatoes, my eyes were fixed on the Columbia River and the kayaks, sail boats, canoes and speed boats out for the evening. Along the river path, joggers, walkers and bicyclers were active.
The evening was clear and from my hotel balcony, I enjoyed watching the colors of the sunset reflect on the Willamette River and Mt. Hood in the distance. What a trip to leave my camera at home! Morning brought another clear day, another beautiful view of Mt. Hood and sculling on the river. Also a day of work. I look forward to a future trip when John and I can explore the city and discover it’s many activities.
