Return to PDX

I've made no secret of how much I miss Portland.  I miss so much about it, I couldn't write it all out in a reasonably-sized post.  So, when I got a Southwest Ding for $69 each way (from San Jose), I jumped on the chance to visit.  I am so glad.  It was just what my heart needed at a time when I've been feeling pretty lonely.  It hasn't been the easiest to re-adjust to living on the Central Coast.  Friends I had then are in a different place (some of them, quite literally) and I haven't been able to reconnect as I had wanted to.  I definitely have more and deeper relationships in Portland than anywhere else (family relations aside).  And, it was a huge blessing to strengthen them over this 4-day trip.

I arrived on a Wednesday night, and was able to participate in Home Community.  It was such a blessing to share time with these incredible people again.  It honestly felt like we hadn't been gone for so long.  I wish I had taken a group photo that night, but alas, none to show for the time spent with them.  But, my heart was full from it, and that's what counts.

Sunset from the plane

Thursday, I decided to bus down to my old school and surprise my nursing class.  I knew they would all be there and I did genuinely surprise most of them.  I loved the looks on their faces when they saw me and it felt so good to connect with them.  No matter where this path of nursing school takes me, these are my cohort and I simply adore them!

Afterward, I went to Happy Hour downtown with my good friend Maria and another friend Reyna.  We had a great time grubbing on delicious Lebonese food and gabbing about school, life, music, and more.

Building a new bridge--as if they need anymore

Downtown

Love these ladies

Thursday night was movie night with Eric and Ellen!

Friday, I went hiking through Mt. Tabor with my friend Karli.  We had a great chat and some good exercise.  It was COLD!  30º!  But, despite how cold it was my whole visit, it did not rain.  Not one drop.  I was quite disappointed by that....

Love the view

 Friday afternoon, I met up with many folks from my nursing class for another Happy Hour and chat time.  Many were knitting and crocheting and some of us were just eating and chatting.  We were there for hours.  It was such a blessing to spend more time with them.  A highlight for me was driving with Rachel and Leo over to NW Portland to meet with everyone.  I love this kid!

On Saturday, after breakfast out with Jill and Aaron, we met up with my friend Alicia, who drove down from Seattle.  Then, the 4 of us met up with Maria, Dave, Joci, Eric, Ellen, Craig, and Rachel to see Catching Fire.  Love it!  Again, I wish I had taken a photo, but I completely forgot.

That night, we hit the town--Alicia, Maria, Dave, Sabrina, and I.  Afterward, we went back to Alicia's hotel to play more games.

Sunday, Alicia joined me to worship with Imago.  It felt so good to be there again, as we have still not quite connected to a church home here in AG.  Alicia drove me to the airport afterward and my short trip came to an end.

I was disappointed not to be able to meet up with our old neighbors or to visit with Luke and Kat.  I say "next time" because there will most definitely be a next time.  I heart PDX!