This past weekend was full of sports, a running pal running 80k for his 80th birthday, a quick trip to Portland for lunch with my sister and a visit to the Portland Filson store. All good summer events!

In my running group, The UO Noon Group, runners often do a “birthday run.” John, the runner in dark blue with the waist pack is a traditionalist in this way and this year, turning 80, decided to run 80 kilometers over 3 days. We all joined in for some or all of it with him to offer support and encouragement and liquids. I ran ten miles with him on Saturday and it was well worth it. John’s an inspiration all the way around.

On Saturday there was a fund-raiser softball game that was put on by the former University of Oregon quarterback, Justin Herbert and several of his teammates. It was to raise money for the Kidsports group in town that my kids have enjoyed over the years. They had a home-run derby and then a game which was super fun. Other players included gold medal winning decathlete, Ashton Eaton, a few current football players, two UO Women’s Softball players and others that I do not know. Herbert is now the quarterback for the Chargers (San Diego? LA? Where are they now?) . . . but it was a very fun afternoon.

On Sunday I went to Portland to have lunch with my sister Jeanne who is up there attending a Tin House writing workshop. She lives in Tucson, so it was a good chance to catch up over a meal as well as explore a bit of Portland.

We swung by the Portland Filson store while there and looked at some items. Filson makes quality winter clothing and even though it was summer hot on Sunday, it was nice to be there.

More Filson –

Final stop before heading home was to a coffees shop in Portland. This sign made me laugh.

Until next time – ! –