well i'm off to the land of the leprachauns

I have decided not to bring my computer (I hate carrying stuff) so all photos of my adventures will have to be uploaded when I return. Not that it's unusual for me to blog infrequently, so I don't know why I'm bothering to warn you now.

Hopefully there will be plenty of these jolly fellows doings jigs and handing out pots of gold.
And hopefully there will be plenty of beautiful scenery for me take in while I am exploring.

i spent my lunch break here

After lunch some people and I sat by the pool for a sunny break. It didn't feel as hot as 90 degrees and humid in business casual seems like it would. It was quite lovely. We will definitely be back tomorrow, and eat much faster so we can have more pool time. I'm thinking there is even time to take a dip, if I plan well and have my simming stuff with me (maybe even wear a bathing suit under my work clothes). Hooray for training in Orlando.

airport massage

Tuesday, on my way back from San Diego (I still owe more photos from the weekend as we did more than just cruise around downtown like nerds on segways wearing helmets) I had a layover in Sacramento. There was a massage station, and I've always been tempted by those short massages offered in those weird looking chairs. Because what isn't awkward about having a stranger (who may or may not be licensed) rub you down in a public place? Clearly a worthwhile activity.
I watched for awhile trying to decide if the massages were quality. The people really got in there with their elbows and stuff, so I figured it'd give me the relaxation I needed and help ease me out of my five-day weekend back into a three-day work week. The massage was pretty good, and I am definitely glad I didn't see anyone I know during the whole process. You should totally stop for a massage the next time you have time to kill in an airport (it was definitely healthier than the Cinnabon I wanted to keep me entertained).

have you ever seen arrested development?

hiking in the gorge

The weather this weekend was gorgeous.  And one of the very best ways to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon is hiking in the Columbia River Gorge.  There are tons of waterfalls and hiking paths to choose from, and you can't really make a bad choice.

Great shot of one of the waterfalls.  Matt B took all of the day's photos with his nice camera.  Good work Matt!
Everyone excited for our sunny adventure.  I love the drive through the gorge-- what a gorgeous view of the Columbia River.
Strolling along the path.  
Many things living and growing in the forests of Oregon.
Let's pose real quick on this bridge.
The shot of this waterfall is fabulous.  Matt had to use the tripod to get the water droplets just so.  I kind of look photo-shopped in.
On the way back down.
This is the best picture of the day.  Patrick did eventually make it onto the log, in case you were wondering.

buying local

So this weekend I did some fun, local shopping.  Friday I 

went out with my friend Kim to the Alberta Arts district in the northeast for dinner and shopping.  I bought this cute, handmade, one-of-a-kind dress at Tumbleweed where Kara Larson, a Portland designer, sells her dresses ("Kara Line") along with some other brands.  

Then Saturday there was a ceramics and jewelry sale at the Oregon College of Arts and Craft that is right across the street from my apartment complex.  I bought this ceramic wall hanging, three necklaces, and a broach.  The pic of the necklaces may ruin birthday surprises coming up in August and September for a couple people, but I'm so excited about them I wanted to share.  Have I mentioned lately how much I L.O.V.E. living in Portland?

spring break highlights

I finally got around to uploading pictures from my week in Utah at the end of April.  Although I had a wonderful visit, I didn't take many photos.  Here are just a few:

Rachel finished the MAcc in style (as always).  Kirst and I went to her graduation party at Spark, a new lounge in Provo.  So fun, and I totally wish it'd been there while I was in school.

Daniel and I had a beautiful sunny day at The Bird due to all the late snow fall.  I think this made day four for the season, so tragic.  I got to explore the back side of Snowbird where I hadn't skiied before and Daniel was such a good sport to wait for me.  :)  

Here is my Easter basket.  My mother started buying us a purse in lieu of a traditional basket once we were older.  I know someday I'm really going to enjoy carrying on our fun traditions with my own children, but in the mean time I am oh so glad my mother does not feel I am too old for all of the holiday festivities of my youth!