Food quest in downtown Portland
From the moment we got off the plane, we hit the ground running Amazing Race style. The hotel shuttle picked us up and we were on our way, stashing our suitcases and off we went on the red MAX line. First stop, we decided to take a quick walking tour of downtown to stretch our legs after a long flight. The rumblings were real, and it wasn’t the streetcar passing by. Definitely, it was time for some comida. Food carts are an everyday occurrence in downtown Portland. We stopped by the Alder Street food truck pod and took in a city square covered in paradise. Choices abounded from Indian to Asian, Hawaiian to Latin, healthy bowls to Grilled Cheese Spectacular. My stomach wasn’t big enough to try everything. We picked out one of the two Hawaiian cars and it had some of the most delicious teriyaki chicken while the Loco Moco gave us flashbacks of our excursions in Hawaii.
Next stop, Portland Public Library. My sister is a librarian and we often try to “check out” the libraries in cities we visit. It’s a great place to get our bearings, use free wi-fi, and ask questions from a trusted local (librarians)!
Nearby we found a corner mexican restaurant with great tacos, a great view for people watching, and great music. Sated for the moment, we explored the iconic Powell’s bookstore. The staff picks had hilarious and thought-provoking commentary.
Ready to try another transportation style, we took the bus into the mountains to see the Rose Garden. There were so many beautiful varieties. After lunch we had a bit of the sleepy sensation following a meal, so a bit of exercise was invigorating. Next we decided to let our sweet tooth do the walking and waiting at Voodoo donuts. We tried the lemon chiffon, marshal mathers, and caramel delight. It was definitely a tourist experience with the eclectic decor and pink boxes. The small coffee shop next door was delectable and served a delicious cardamom honey latte. They hadn’t officially opened yet, so they served coffee from a window on the side of the building.
Dancing the first night away
The Friday evening showcase was great and so was the social dancing that followed. It was a deliriously good night of dancing. Everyone including the pros were dancing and interacting. The evening definitely had a warm and open feeling. It felt like being invited to a best friends’ party. You may know a few people but because your friend is so gregarious everyone is put at ease. The host of this Congress was that friend we didn’t know we had acquired. He was introducing people, connecting people, and openly available the whole weekend.
Saturday Workshops
The next day we decided to pull a Zena, Warrior Princess, on the workshops. We took one every hour it was offered and by the end we were tired and hungry, but on fire for Latin dance. I especially enjoyed the Yamulee footwork and partnerwork class. Classes that combine these skills are cool because it gives you an opportunity to soak in a bit of styling as well as get to know people through partnerwork. Also, it gives me the chance to get a sense of the group dynamics and decide if I’d like to lead or follow based upon the class balance and vibe.
This trip we opted for the hotel club level so we ran up to the lounge for hors d’oeuvres and then immediately took a break to get a few winks of sleep before the evening showcase. One piece I enjoyed immensely was a duet by Patrick and Scarlet of Canada. I enjoyed the elegance of the movement. Their team piece also had wonderful surprises throughout including a quick step in the middle of the mambo.
Solo Competition Time
The nerves always hit me just before stage time. It’s always been that way. One of my drama coaches used to say, it’s key to channel your energy whether it be nervous or excited into your performance. Thanks Ms. Liddell, because I needed that piece of advice. Once I stepped on stage, there was only the music and me getting ready to share the gift of dance with the new friends I met that weekend. It was lovely from start to finish. I was so thrilled to have the opportunity to not only perform but to do so in front of an audience so far from home.
