Blog Master G

 Jen and I have now been to Portland, Oregon twice — both over Labor Day weekends. The first trip was Labor Day weekend 2001 when we were living in San Francisco. And the second trip was earlier this month when we went for our friend Katie’s wedding. We’ve loved it both times. Portland is such a beautiful, awesome city. The first time we went, I called it a green version of San Francisco — it’s a city filled with trees. And, of course, it’s nearly as progressive as SF, too.

Katie’s a friend from San Francisco who relocated to Portland shortly before we moved to Saratoga Springs. Also at her wedding were three of our other SF friends, Tiff, Miguel, and Jeanine. It was a short trip, but an awesome one. We arrived late Friday night and left early Monday, but we packed so much action into that weekend that it seemed much longer. And it’s always tons of fun hanging out with the SF crew.

Katie and Alex’s wedding was great. It was on their farm outside Portland. The groom arrived at the ceremony on a pony with the “Bonanza” theme song playing. Their two Bernese mountain dogs, Blueberry and Sailor, were the ring bearers and performed well. There was a horse drill team performance shortly after the ceremony. Katie and Alex then did a “victory lap” — Katie on horseback and Alex riding his bike. Then Katie did a ride-by bouquet toss (Jeanine caught the bouquet).

It’s not often one has the opportunity to attend a wedding with so many unique elements, and we’re glad we made it. Big congrats to Katie and Alex!

Along with the fun of the wedding and hanging out with llamas at a great little B&B (Scappoose Creek Inn), we got to spend a day hanging out in Portland, getting lost in Powell’s and enjoying the afternoon and evening with the gang.

It was awesome being there, and really good to see all of you! We miss you and love you guys!

Enjoy more photos below or view the Flickr sets for Portland Day 1 & Katie’s Wedding and Portland Day 2: