Etienne, I'm beginning to think the Portland travel bureau should hand over some commission!

The Modern Gal, yes, Portland is easy to have a crush on. I'm one of the few people who wouldn't actually want to live there, but I'd love an annual visit. If you ever make it out there, make sure to look up my brother for advice on all the best places to go!

Elaine, we will do our best to avoid the hospitals of Seattle, but I will definitely be thinking about you while I'm there. I think I will always associate that city with you. :)

Sugar Jones, yes, head up to Portland. Make it a mother-daughter trip! (I had to laugh, I saw your "lovely trip" comment here late last night, right after I finished writing about all the frustrations tied to our vacation, and posting the photo of the cold, miserable beach. But it WAS a lovely trip. You're right!)