FULL OF BEAUTIFUL THINGS

PORTLAND IS SO FULL OF beautiful things. People, food, nature, clothing, home goods, architecture. All of it is so, so good. Johnny and I spent two full days there (not including travel time), and it was all wonderful. I admit that I was expecting less because I had actually wanted to go to Seattle for our anniversary trip-- and take the train or ferry to Canada while we were there-- but the trip was amazing and I'm so glad we went. We both really want to go back and visit our friends and take a trip to Cannon Beach and Sauvie Island. Two days definitely isn't enough. 

I was most impressed with the food. It's probably my favorite part of going ANYWHERE and also my weakness. I spend most of my money on food, but I'm trying to change that habit and focus more on investment pieces rather than the fleeting (albeit glorious) happiness that I get from food.  If you know me, you know that I have horrible, terrible, no-good eating habits; I'm trying to better about it-- I just have an affinity for anything sweet, salty, rich, greasy, fried, unhealthy, or fatty. It's pretty bad. Anyway, my favorite spots were Tasty 'N Alder for breakfast/brunch (the best I've ever had!) and Salt & Straw for ice cream. Top notch.

In terms of favorite shops-- because we went to a lot (Canoe, Frances May, Hand-Eye Supply, Tanner Goods, Imogene + Willie...) -- I would say the best experiences were at Kinfolk and Schoolhouse Electric. Oh, and Powell's Books because, duh!, books, books, so many books! Kinfolk was so great because we got a tour of their beautiful offices and even got to meet most of the staff and the founder. Everyone there is so sweet and talented. I was in awe pretty much the whole time. And Schoolhouse really needs no explanation. I want everything in there to be in my house, please!

Our favorite thing about the trip overall, though, was going to Multnomah Falls. Again, I was a little underwhelmed because of the overexposure of it, I guess, but-- also again-- it really exceeded my expectations. It's a whole other experience from seeing the photos and hearing accounts. It was Johnny's favorite part as well. I love traveling with him and having one-on-one time with him in general. We don't get the chance to take a trip just the two of us very often, but every time we do, it makes me want to more. Just non-stop walking and talking and laughing (and eating).  I can't wait to go on more trips with him. We have a lot of places on our list for next time.

And, of course, can't forget about the Ace!