Afternoon Tea at The Heathman, Portland, Oregon

I traveled by car to Delta Park and then via MAX light rail to Pioneer Square in downtown Portland. I walked a few blocks to The Heathman. I had afternoon tea in the historic tea court at a table where I could see the fire in the fireplace. Afternoon Tea at The Heathman is a long standing tradition in Portland, especially during the holiday season.

I chose Earl Grey tea with bergamot (do not like Earl Grey with lavender). I had four sandwiches, deviled egg, Heathman scone with mascarpone, banana bread, and five desserts. I especially liked the classic cucumber sandwich, the Heathman scone and the Banana Bread. I was taken back when I received the bill. The price had risen from $28.50 per person (listed on the menu card) to $32.00 per person!! I had a $10.00 coupon which I received at the Washington Square Macy's Tea/China Dishes Presentation a couple months ago.

After the tea I wandered around The Heathman lobby and mezzanine looking at the glass art and the artwork. I was especially impressed with the library on the mezzanine. The glass cases held books of authors that have stayed at The Heathman over the years.

"Neon Nights II"

I recently submitted (and was published) a geocache "Neon Nights II" which has been nominated for WSGA November Cache of the month. The geocache was based on "Neon Nights" by Acid Rain in Rapids City, South Dakota. There is another geocache that is similar: "Mystery of the Seaside Prom" (GCXTWN) but it uses Signs/Objects rather than Neon Signs.

Enjoyable day in the Columbia River Gorge Nov. 8, 2006

My daughter, Catherine, and I drove via I-84 and the old Columbia River Highway to the Womens Forum. I attended the WWFM (Event Cache) from 10:00 to 10:15am. The storm clouds parted and the sun shone upon us. Afterwards Catherine and I continued eastward in the gorge stopping for lunch by the fireplace at Multnomah Lodge, visited the trailhead at Eagle Creek and sat in a rocker and high-backed chair in front of the three-story window at Skamania Lodge. I sipped hot Spiced Cider and admired the view while Catherine read her novel. We drove back via Hwy 14 to Vancouver. A very enjoyable day!!