February 14, 2026
Dear Liza,
Happy Valentine’s Day! But that’s not what this blog is about.
Last evening we three bundled up and bussed off to our drizzly Downtown and enjoyed a bright, warm celebration of Portland city life.
Even before we got to Pioneer Square, known as Portland’s Living Room, we could see things were going to be interesting.
Shimmering lights, crocheted tents, furious “fire swamp” explosions, and an electrified juggler made us forget the rain.
Hundreds of folks were out, enjoying the show and the community. A well-tended bonfire in a beautifully wrought fire-pit warmed chilly fingers and evoked a camping-in-the-woods vibe.
Furthering our adventure, we walked to Director’s Park and found warm coffee and sweet s’mores (By Marsh & Mallow, in their new location). A delicately carved, glowing Nautilus shell lit what is usually a wading fountain.
Refreshed with sugar and caffeine, we had one last stop : Portland’s World Trade Center. We heard it before we saw it. “Audible” was a deafening understatement!
There were artworks you could walk into, walk through, and just marvel at.
And as our own batteries were running low, we had a long, quiet look at the Willamette and then headed off to catch the bus back home.
Thanks, Portland! It was delightful.
Love,
Grandma Judy
Dear Liza 