PORTLAND.....

We had decided to take a train from Seattle to Portland...here is what we learned from this experience:
1. Obviously, go during the day if you want scenery.
2. Upgrade to Business class so you can avoid sitting next to the young mom with a two year old, that she did not give a nap in hopes he would sleep and was drinking a screwdriver to take the edge off.
3. Be prepared for delays. In our case, the lady wiping out on the platform, and then having to follow a slow freight train.
We did eventually arrive in Oregon to see my sister and her family.

We loved Portland. The area is beautiful, the city is full of funky shops and places to eat. We spent time in the Pearl District...
Eating at Burgerville, as close to eco-friendly and natural fast food you can get.
Greg and I went to E. Burnside and to dinner at Doug Fir Lounge. The shops on the street were closed but I plan on checking out a few of the vintage ones next time I am up there.
We were also able to catch up with old friends that we had not seen in a long time.

We drove up to the coast in the rain, had dinner together at a great place and then one quick photo op by the ocean. It was freezing!
We left the next day but had a great trip. The area is just beautiful and it's winter..in the summer I can only imagine how gorgeous it would be.
Now, here is the random photo from the trip...loved this chandelier my friend had hanging in her house. Now we are home in very warm weather, but home.