Portland Day 4: Food & Friends & Beer

We picked up a rental car this morning and traveled back into our own state, but just barely, as we were going to visit blipper RavensRoost and her husband J in their home in southern Washington.

Despite Mt. Adams only playing peek-a-boo with us, the view was amazing, and I was particularly entranced by the ever-changing cloud formations. My attention was soon diverted to the superb lunch that RR had made -- rich smoked salmon chowder, a delicious kale salad, and a lattice-topped apple pie that had the most delicate, delicious crust that I've ever eaten. Our contribution was a crusty loaf, a tasty foccacia, and a bottle of wine, all from a fine new food shop near where we're staying in Portland.

The conversation was as delightful, rich, and nourishing as the food, and the time sped by much too quickly. Thank you, RR and J, for such a wonderful afternoon!

On our way back to Portland, Phil and I made an unplanned stop in Hood River at a craft beer brewery we'd been talking about visiting. We tried six of Pfriem Brewing's Belgian-style beers in small tasters, accompanied by a salad for me and mussels and fries for Phil, and will definitely seek out several of those beers in Bellingham at our local bottle shops.

The return to Portland was made more challenging by heavy rain, but Phil got us back safely. Now it's time for sleep, before we hit the road again tomorrow!

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