Portland, OR

Living on the West side of the states for the first time in my life leaves me with the desire to drive, explore, and experience the Pacific Northwest. If only we had a little bit more time here. There is so much to see and despite how much I'm struggling with the political climate of America, it is a beautiful, diverse country. Landscapes, people, cities. It is full of beauty and difference. 

I knew I had to see Portland, Oregan. Home of one of my favorite writers/speakers, Cheryl Strayed. Known for its weirdness, quirks, and hipster vibe, I was excited to drive the eight hours to explore a new city.

I expected Oregan to be absolutely gorgeous but it wasn't until right outside Portland. At least coming from Idaho. It was the same brown, boring landscape I've gotten used to here in Southern Idaho.

Our trip to Portland was a lovely escape from the monotony of everyday life. We explored downtown, got drunk and danced the night away at a 90s bar, ate doughnuts at midnight at Voodoo Doughnuts,  and we traversed the eccentric Saturday Market with a trendy Stumptown coffee in hand before walking the many blocks to Powell's City of Books. 

I was simultaneously overwhelmed and awed by the biggest independent used and new bookstore in the world. We had to go back a second time before I could decide on a mug and a book to buy as a souvenir of our time. We ate food cart Indian, Greek, and Mexican. Although I was expecting amazing food from this foodie city, I can't say we were impressed by much. We ended our second evening in Portland at Salt and Straw where I got a bone marrow and smoked cherry scoop and a sea salt scoop on a fresh waffle cone. It was delectable.  

Our last day in Portland was reserved for nature, hiking, and outdoors. We stopped at Multnomah Falls which is very easily accessible from the highway before moving on to a seven-mile hike to Ramona Falls (which is a part of the PCT!). 

Reconnecting with a long weekend away to a new city is one of my favorite things to do and I hope Brandon and I continue taking the time to enjoy new places and one another. 

Oh, and keep Portland weird.