I'm finally back

I'm back from Portland these past few days and making preparations for the move. I've done some of the major items, like banking and car changes, now I have to start packing. I find I'm dragging my feet a bit; it feels rather overwhelming. But I have to tell myself, "just start". Take the "one box at a time" attitude. Do it a few hours at a time instead of a packing marathon. I have some time yet, so I don't feel super pressured. Which can be both good and bad.

My last few days in Portland passed pleasantly. The weather was absolutely beautiful; sunny and warm. I got to spend time with my hostess/friend and it was great. It was the first opportunity we'd had to just relax and talk.

On Friday I went on a hike with one of my new friends there. We went to a place called Lost Lake. It's a hilly, forested area on a large lake with a stunning view of Mt Hood. We saw an osprey, who caught a fish right in front of us and flew up into the trees. The trees themselves are HUGE, and very old. I always feel like I'm in a cathedral in a forest. It really speaks to my soul. After we got back from the hike, myself, my hiking mate, and my hostess friends all went out to dinner at a little place called Wild Abandon. We sat out on the patio and enjoyed the warm breeze, some Sangria (yummy!), delicious food and fine conversation. It was a great way to end my initial visit to Portland.