Portland and Such

We switched up the days of doing things so that we could visit with Bill's aunt and uncle one more time.  But before heading off to Portland to meet up with them, we decided to check out a local shop on the suggestion of Jennifer (from the alpaca ranch).  Willamette Valley Pie Co.  We had pie for breakfast.  SOOOOOOOOOOOOO good!!!!  They have a happy hour in the mornings that we just couldn't resist.  And it was so very worth it!!!   After our pie and a little bit of exercise on their playground, we headed out to Portland.  We parked near Rick and Sharon's place, then headed out for a walk to Powell's City of Books.  We had been feeling a wee bit book deprived (we only added to our travelling library once, at a Costco).  Powell's is overwhelming with its huge collection.  We did show some restraint, and many ninja mind control books got the kibosh, but we all managed to come out of there pleased.  

Back at Rick and Sharon's, we had a lovely lunch.  Their condo is beautiful, overlooking the river.  The kids were fascinated to be up that high, but assured me that I should stay back (not a fan of heights), and told me in excruciating detail what it was like.  Before bidding adieu to check out the science museum, we lined up for the shot.  Top:  Bill, Rick, NS.  Bottom:  K, NB, G, J, Sharon.  I keep forgetting to bring my gorilla pod, so I'm not in the shot.  Bummer.      

Thanks to Jamie, we re-upped our membership to DMNS so that we could participate in the reciprocity program.  DMNS is such a wonderful museum, it's hard to imagine finding others around the country that we would enjoy as much.  OMSI was incredible, though.  We got there mid-afternoon, and spent several hour perusing the exhibits.  Space was neat and so different from what DMNS has.  We got to watch videos featuring Bill's favorite astronaut, Chris Hadfield.  I learned a lot about pee in space.  A lot.  There were a lot of things we did, but pee in space made an impression on me!  K and NB worked on earthquake simulations, trying to build a steady/sturdy structure to withhold the stress.  J made my hair stand on end in the physics lab.  And we all enjoyed the health pinball machine.  Who wouldn't?         Overall, Portland was a fun city, we're very glad we went.