Bend to Portland

We took the advice of Kerry Gillette and drove the McKenzie Highway which is winding and beautiful.  We arrived in space, aka a crater field.  Overheard from another couple walking to the top of the lookout, "Have you ever done it at the top of a lava castle?"

Next, we popped by Eugene to say hi to Emily and the kids in their adorable Ukrainian makeup and braids.  For pics, see: http://coxkidsnews.blogspot.com/2011/09/ukrainian-day-photos.html Then on to the famous Oregon coast. Yes, we had clam chowder at Moe's.

For Nanny's sake, we stopped at Tillmook for a factory tour (read: samples!!!) and ice cream.

We headed into Portland later that evening and met up with Laurel and Josh.  Although we weren't able to sneak a peak of Gallilee, we were deeply encouraged and challenged by their adoption, church strategies, and love for their city.  The next day, we got on our bikes and tooled around infamous Portland.  First stop: Farmer's market.

 Next, the Saturday Market.  Eddie was very excited.

Third, we wound our way up to Mississippi St. for food carts and randomly ran into Kyle and Joy, our pastors in Salt Lake.  Yes, we had the Brian Bowl at Por Que No?  Yes, it was delicious. And yes, we had Stumptown Coffee.  It was a close call though. We were getting tired of waiting in lines and asking for directions and almost went with a cheap cup from a nearby food cart.  But then, wonder of all wonders, a man walked out of the shop next door with coffee. We checked it out and it was Stumptown!  Needless to say, we waited in line.