We arrived on the outskirts of Portland & the campsite was great except for the noise of the massive trains that thundered through at odd hours during the night!
Our next set of local millennials escorted us to a wonderful collection of places. It’s true to say we would probably never have discovered by ourselves. Having local guides relieved us of the pressure of driving in the city so we could enjoy the sights.
One stop was an amazing bookshop that spanned several floors. I have no idea how many books were kept there. I got lost a few times. It turns out it was the place where one of their friends had proposed.
While daughter & friends chatted & caught up with all the news. I sat back daydreaming about possible tattoos. Becoming even more relaxed in a floatation tank experience treat which had been slipped to the schedule.
Surplus Food
We ate at some brilliant venues & even was able to give some of the surplus food to a homeless person on our way back to the van which felt like a small but good thing to do.
Sadly homelessness seemed to be as bad a problem in the States as in the UK which given the wealth of these nations continues to baffle me.
It provided motivation to get involved with a local group at home but more of that later.
Car for Home
Indeed one of our young hosts seemed only a whisker away from being on the streets. I was shocked to discover that he was living in his car while studying & holding down a job.
Scary stuff given he was the same age as one of my kids. Unable to suppress my mothering instinct made sure he had some decent nourishment while he was with us.
One of the places we visited was The Grotto. A tranquil location with a Religious connection. It was a fascinating place with many ‘garden rooms’ to wander through.
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