17th October, 2018. Our 2nd day in Portland with Rich and Elizabeth. Pittock Acres Park and Mansion and Washington Park

We woke to a great morning with clear skies and a brisk breeze.  We are assured of another superb day. 

Our commencement was delayed until pickup at 10.30 am and we decided to have a brunch at another of the French Bakery Restaurant named La Provence.  Rich ordered Mimosas and we then enjoyed a hearty breakfast, tabled incessantly as to the lovely day yesterday,bthebduperb Peruvian Restaurant, even if the noise level was somewhat jarring. 

From brunch we drove to Pittock Acres Park and Pittock Mansion an historical home, where we enjoyed a walk through superb gardens overlooking the city of Portland with Mt St Helens in the background.  We then did an extensive 2 hour tour of the mansion.  Just fascinating as the home of the first wealthy newspaper magnate of th3 area.

Following this a short visit to the spectacular Washington Park.  Beautiful gardens, again highlighting the autumn beauty on a perfect day. 

Rich decreed mid afternoon that he was hungry, but that he and Ken were going to enjoy a couple of beers, discuss the world then go for a walk through the shopping area before dropping us off for a time of rest before dinner at a lovely Italian Restaurant in the trendy up market suburb of Lake Oseaga.

Elizabeth and Jeanette suggested a cool drink and afternoon tea of cakes and a cool drink. We parked the car on a street and walked a block in the afternoon sunshine to a hotel restaurant where we ordered beers and also afternoon tea..  It was simply delightful.

From here we walked down the street and visited several stores, all selling Halloween items. 

Elizabeth wanted to spend more time walking through these trendy shopping areas, but Rich showed little enthusiasm.

Following this they dropped us off at our hotel where we had almost 2 hours for a rest then shower before they picked us up for dinner at a lovely Italian Restaurant where the noise levels were lower than last evening, and where we enjoyed an excellent 3 course meal, discussing how we first met, what has occurred since and some future plans. 

Rivh is in good health following a significant prostate cancer bout last year.  He is back playing tennis and golf. 

 He is very much engaged in volunteer activities supporting  the homeless through a St Vinnies affiliate and in working with local government agencies. 

We have enjoyed 2 lovely days with these long term friends.  We just get together and catch up. 

Tomorrow we pick up a rental from Enterprise and then make our way to SunRiver and catch up with Tom and Cathy.