From the Sublime to the Ridiculous

Leaving Portland should be easy. It's overcrowded, over-priced, and takes itself way too seriously. But, and this is really important: the food is seriously good.

The hotel breakfasts are hotel breakfasts, but there is some seriously good food to be had in very unlikely places.

Once Prudence was packed, Sarah and I drove to a Michael's in Milwaukie, OR to get cord for a prayer rope she is making for her friend, George. Then we drove back into Portland to St. David of Wales Church hoping to sing there. I chose it because their website was pretty friendly; however, I am finding that looks on websites are often deceiving.

Turns out Fridays are terrible days in which to visit churches (also Monday's). Turns out rectors often take either Friday or Monday off. So very often there is no one to open up the church to a visitor.

 

 

 

 

We discovered the Hands On Art and Play Preschool, but alas, the church was locked up tighter than a drum with no one from the church around. Because we were mindful of how nervous teachers can be with their kids coming into contact with strangers, we sat in our car in the parking lot to sing, As The Deer.

Then we walked around the neighborhood down the hill, which turned out to be pretty awesome. On Division and 28th Place there was a bunch of food caravans. One in particular called out to me. This place was open and friendly and helpful (and, yes, they were trying to sell us something, but in a way, isn't that what churches are trying to do?).

Fortified with a raspberry gingerbread cupcake, a pumpkin whoopie pie, and a pear basil rosemary scone (sublime!), we also stopped at a juice bar and Sarah got a Puckerup (pineapple, kale, celery, mint, and lime juice). Totally successful food venture and a really fun walk.

Wandering around, we saw a fabulous old neighborhood being devoured by yuppies. Yoga and ballet barre exercise and foodie-type hang outs mixed with gentrified apartments and really old hippie homes. It won't be long before it goes the way of 23rd Avenue.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then we drove to St. Andrew and All Souls, Portland. They have the coolest signs.

Ethnically diverse congregation in a changing neighborhood, we were lucky to meet Edna, the Junior Warden. They were having trouble with their chair lift and Edna was trying to get it fixed. She was also trying to run their food pantry.

But she took time to open the church for us and talk briefly about their ministries and the challenges of changing demographics. They do a Wednesday night service. And they amere quilting new seasonal banners in workshops in there basement. We may make it back here next week.

Once again feeling a little like intruders instead of guests, we sat in the car and sang Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.

Onward to Seattle.

I am very thankful it only rained once, just outside of Olympia, because by the time we got to Seattle it was rush hour. Crazy traffic from Tacoma on. But long about Tukwila the city sort of sucks you in. We didn't break free until just beyond University of Washington. We are staying North Seattle Shoreline. More reasonable hotel prices.

Dinner at 125th Street Grill (hotel recommendation). Only fair dinner. But we were really hungry and it wasn't far away. The calamari appetizer was great, but downhill after that. Tired, but happy to be here. What a trip!

Tomorrow: Exploring the old/new city. Pike Place Market and Green Lake.

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