the west coast, flying, and friends

so, if you were to ask me if anything new and exciting has been happening lately, i would be able to say yes! 

i returned yesterday from a fabulous trip to portland, oregon to spend some time with two of my favorite friends, one of them traveled along with me, while the other is living there until august. my friend, mary, is the one living there for  a year. she is volunteering through an organization which i believe is called jesuit volunteer corps - if i am not mistaken. her job is basically preschool teacher and homework helper of somali refugee children. it's really awesome and she is great with the kids! i admire her servant heart! 

so the trip began with a shaky & nervous me, crying to my husband because i was afraid to fly alone, and ended with a new love of flying, new realizations of myself, a massive crush on the west coast, and strengthened friendships.  it was lovely.

i would have to say my most favorite part of the trip was riding the train back to Portland from Seattle (we decided to head up there for a day & a night). it was absolutely beautiful. the train had a lovely observation car, with floor to ceiling windows and cushioned benches to sit upon so you could comfortably take it all in. not only was the scenery beautiful, but so was the conversation. we talked about dreams, the meaning of beauty, and how the west coast seems to have no limits. we talked about home and we talked about family. we met a traveling girl from south korea who God used to confirm our heart's intentions. 

we also went to the coolest place, you should check it out, kennedy school.

i have to tell you, portland is so great for the following reasons (and more):

1. there is a cafe that has bragg's liquid aminos on the tables instead of the typical ketchup.

2. nearly everyone had wonderful gardens

3. biking

4. friendly people

5. hybrid cars

6. mountains

7. bridges

9. martini/dive bars

10. $1.50 PBR

11. the beautiful houses

12. unexpected palm trees

13. the ability to take train rides to seattle

14. awesome vintage shops

15. people's food co-op

so anyway, thanks mary, for the most awesome week. 

i had a blast and a half. 

make that two blasts. 

get your purse and let's go.

shit yeah bitches.