Portland, etc.

Sitting under an overcast sky as the tide comes in at Cannon Beach, I feel a bit lonely. I was around such great people the last few days. I am feeling the void of their absence, yet I am grateful for their friendship.

My time in Portland was absolutely amazing, thanks to Christina. There was lots of good times including a small gathering at Christina's house when I first arrived, disc gold with Derrick, a fabulous happy hour at Portland City grill with Chris, Christina, and Shayna, a shiatsu massage (thanks Christina!!) and a sushi dinner all before the weekend.

The highlight of my summer so far came in the form of the Oregon Country Fair. (A big thanks to Amy for driving us down there.) Entering this renaissance festival felt like entering another country. I'm having trouble finding the words to describe the vibe of this place. It had its own unique culture that was very vibrant and real. Costumed pagans dominated the visually stimulating crowd while all visitors contributed to a positive atmosphere. I was literally smiling the entire time I was there. This year the fair celebrated its 40th anniversary, but it was my very first experience attending. Music, dance, commerce, friendship, and fellowship, the fair had it all.

There were two musical performances that stood out; March 4th Marching Band and Pimps of Joy-Time. March 4th is a large group that played for a love of music that radiated throughout the raucous crowd. The marching band played many original tunes that had everyone dancing, but the stage performers the band accompanied stole the show. From circus style pole acrobats to tumbling jugglers, the performers displayed their skills while March 4th jammed behind them. Following the marching band, Pimps of Joy-Time showcased a musicality that had the crowd dancing from start to finish. This Brooklyn based funk band grooved through styles, tempos, and solos to give one hell of a concert.

The festival takes place just outside of Eugene in woodlands. Being under the trees helped define the atmosphere of the event. All the structures where vendors were selling goods and services had tree-house like architecture helping them to blend in to the forest. Do yourself a favor, go to the Oregon Country Fair next year.