September 22, 2009

Portland, OR

Oh yes, things are still going mighty fine.

My last night in Missoula was a dream. Nicole and I went out to eat at a restaurant that was holding a benefit for the school where she works. It was actually the same restaurant that Will and I ate at on our first night in Missoula; everything had come full circle, I felt complete in Montana. We had one of the tastiest bottles of red wine that I have had in a while and enjoyed the 'all you can eat' theme after camping. Sunday night was chilly. We walked back to the boys' house after dinner and I even folded my sweatshirt arms over tight to my body stay cozy.

By the time we made it back, Sam was working on quite the project in the kitchen to ensure that the night was well under way. And so it was, I spent my last night with Will, Danny, Sam and Ryan. Those boys were so sweet to me while I was visiting. It is awfully nice to see them thrive in the elements that they love most. This whole trip is about me doing what I love and being true. Along the way I've seen so many people who do that every day of their lives, it's inspiring and a good reminder. Just because you can't go fly fishing today, doesn't mean that you can't go another time.

I do find that living in the present makes things difficult for me. To not be happy in the present is impossible, though. There is no reason to be upset because of a moment, I think it works in reverse. If the moment yields happiness, then embrace it. And if it does not, accept it.

Today is my second day in Oregon. Monday morning I met my new friend, Spring, for the first time. I found someone who was traveling from Missoula to Portland in the 'rideshare' section on craigslist. We had a really great ride, making small talk and chatting, and mostly listening to CosmoRadio on XM. It was awesome. The drive along the Columbia River on I-84 included bountiful scenery; canyons, mountains, water, perfection.

I'm staying with my mom's cousin, Ann, and her husband, Brad, here in Portland. The kids are 7, JT, and 10 months, Katherine, plus there are two dogs! I get to sleep in a real bed, which is another huge treat for me. So far I've been spoiled with good food, got to watch JT ride his bike for the 2nd time in his life, and spent most of the day being around a beautiful baby girl; I am loving it.

Today I did go downtown to walk around and see part of the city. It was at least 90 degrees and sunny, still no complaints. We got sushi tonight for dinner and I'm still so full that I almost didn't write this. In fact, I just unbuttoned the top button on my jeans, yesss.

I have postcards that I have been trying to mail since last week, so it's crucial that I remember to put them in the mailbox tomorrow.

If you read this post in it's entirety, I love you, and thank you, and I hope you haven't given up on me yet.

Sweet dreams...