We awoke excited to spend the day with some of our favorite friends in one of our favorite towns – Portland.

While Angela ran a few errands, I took the boys for an introduction to Powell’s Bookstore – the best bookstore in the world. It was a Saturday and thus swarming with bookworms, tourists and employees like NYC’s Fifth Avenue at lunchtime. Young people were showing their parents around and a group of kids were sitting down for a reading. The boys wanted to explore more but we didn’t have time to linger.

Angela rejoined us and we walked around the Pearl. Colleen, who we’d see later in the day, suggested a brunch place called Tasty n Alder. No reservations taken, so we put in our name and willingly subjected ourselves to the 1.5 hour wait. More walking around the Pearl and a quick stop across the street at Heart Coffee for an iced Americano, much needed as it was already 90 degrees at noon when we were seated for brunch. We’d all recommend Tasty n Alder – strong staff, unusual food/flavor combinations and fun atmosphere made it worth the wait.

The highlight of the day was getting to spend time with Colleen, Mark and their daughters for dinner, talking and swimming. It was an unusually sunny and hot day for Portland, and perfect for sitting outside under the trees. The late evening swim at Mark and Colleen’s nearby club made the boys happy and tired. It was the first time our sons and their daughters had met, but you wouldn’t have guessed it as they were playing like lifelong buddies before the night was over. After the swim, Colleen navigated us toward the local DQ to get treats for everyone.

Many thanks to Colleen’s family for visiting with us on short notice – it was fantastic to spend time together.