We mixed and matched veggies, meats, and sauces for some stir-fry delight at the Mongolian grill for lunch. The only place this week where overeating feels healthy. Well, besides the ice cream sundae – but that really is more a palette cleanser.

Next we headed to Powell’s bookstore for literary explorations. Mom got several books on her checklist. And Jasmine found a few items to peruse.

Then to the mall for Jasmine to get her ears pierced a second time. Apparently this undertaking can only happen with grandparents in tow. (The first piercing happened when grandparents Lynn and Rachel visited us a couple summers ago. In the following months one earring fell out and the ear healed apparently overnight. )

We shared dinner at the food court and then said our goodbyes to Karen and Ted, as they head back to the snowy North next morning. Thanks for a great visit!

[Show slideshow]

I met my folks for breakfast at the hotel. They made it through the night with the pre-teen unscathed. Jasmine had a lovely smiley face meal. She even shared some of her bacon – if you call a miniscule sliver sharing.

We headed to the coast for another sunshine day (which I keep telling my parents is very rare here – but they seem unconvinced). After walking on the windy beach we drove south for some cheese and ice cream at Tillamook Creamery. My two scoops were butter pecan and black cherry. Jasmine got chocolate chip mint and chocolate.

[Show slideshow]

My mom really likes gardens, especially Japanese themes, so this was a must on the week’s agenda.

This would be Jasmine’s first time here. She was excited to get a day off school and for her special sleepover with the grandparents this evening – for which she had packed a couple days in advance.

To summarize our visit: the gardens was a feast for the eyes and soothing to the soul.

For lunch we went to an Indian buffet. And dinner was at their hotel restaurant which had some fabulous desserts.

[Show slideshow]

1 2 ►

After dropping Jasmine off to school, the adults drove to the gorge. First stop was Multnomah Falls which was impressive as ever. The overlook bridge was closed due to some falling rock demolishing part of the structure. Another win for gravity.

Next stop was Hood River for lunch at a fav restaurant that has a wonderful view of the valley. I got my usual delicious clam chowder. Ted ordered a catfish sandwich with a side salad. Turns out the side salad so huge, that I helpfully volunteered to eat half the sandwich.

On the return trip we visited the Bonneville dam and fisheries.

We picked Jasmine up and then headed went out for a Chinese dinner.

[Show slideshow]

My mom Karen and step-dad Ted arrived in town today for a week visit.

We start off by a short walk to a local pub where we had yummy sandwiches with homemade potato chips. We digest for a bit before going on another short walk to pick up Jasmine from school. Jasmine was happily surprised and immediately charged her grandparents for some super hugging.

We hang out at our place, catch up and plan out the week, particularly what to eat. Tonight we decide on a German feast at Gustav’s.

[Show slideshow]