The Portland Connection

I just have to interrupt my postings on Cape Cod for a few posts.
Just returned from an amazing trip. Thank you Chris & Lisa for this introduction.
Portland Oregon is quite the experience!
Wikipedia states "Portland is a city located near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers in Oregon. With a population of 568,380 it is Oregon's most populous city, and the third most populous city in the Pacific Northwest.The city and region are noted for strong land-use planning and investment in public transit. "
It is attracting and capturing the hearts of our youth and families. A visit there gives a glimpse of the why. Portland is one beautiful city with an exciting blend of historic and modern architecture (I will have to do another post devoted to the architecture, it is wonderful). Vistas of Mt. Hood and the Willamette River, stately Douglas Fir trees, flowers and trees budding and ready to bloom in FEBRUARY. Combined with great art, farmers markets, waterfront festivals and a diverse population, and you have one very exciting city.
Some of the highlights...I experienced some of the best small local dining establishments, I have ever had. The neighborhoods are more like small towns where you can walk (and most do, a wonderful site to see neighbors outside and greeting each other) to a cup of coffee, a grocery or one of the many quaint stores. Yet you are only a 10 minute drive to the city proper.
Did you think I would just mention the shops in passing ? (Ha!) That will be a post in itself as the shopping was just as exciting as the city.