Portland - liquid brown runs like the Niagara

Hal’s dream was to marry me first and then take me along to savour the myriad of brown stouts in Oregon. Just like Ireland I’ve become the designated driver and Hal, well he never drinks more than a pint or two yet those rosy cheeks can glow surrounded by beer vats, talks of hops, and his favorite chips in his midst.  

We arrived in Portland in the afternoon walked the floral streets of downtown up to the University admiring the vibrant blossoms of the: Japanese ornamental, cherry, laurel, thunderclouds and Mt. Fugi trees. Then onto to the Pearl district to view modern architecture and Hal’s first of many microbrewery – The Rogue. The sun shone through the hovering clouds as we shared several “flights” of varying colors, textures and tastes of beer. I have been corrupted never would my lips have tried beer now I am indulging and more often than not finding something that will quench my thirst.

That evening we found our home and nestled in with our hosts for the night rich in conversation about the arts, politics, and how Portland went from a logging mill to a beer and granola haven.

Up Mt. Tabor for our morning joint before savoring my first coffee in the Alberta District. Rich cream hit my tongue with a hint of bitter dark African coffee and I heaven bound. Cool brisk winds kept our feet hoping as the morning walk turned into a late lunch near the Mississippi District and Hal’s next brewery – Ex Novo. The seats were nestled right beside the massive vats of beer illuminating Hal’s linguistics chance to woe me further into his indulgences.

Walking into Laurel wood Park, similar to Mount Royal, large mature trees were the playground for children and their parents setting up picnics strolling past glorious homes teaming with flower pots of gold, orange, and lilac tulips. Matching the mauve bushes and teal blue heather growing on the ground. The lush green lawns looked artificial as we crouched down inconspicuously to see if they were. That evening back at our home we met a guest from Australia studying art in Argentina with a 1 month layover in the U.S., we shared fine wine and dinner as she spoke of her adventures.