10/10-Portland, Oregon/ It's too late to turn back, here we go.

The Jade was a cool venue, which is very open to literary folks.  I was able to meet Dena Rash Guzman and Parker Tettleton who've I've known on-line or have been published in journals with for years and years and years. Also it was a pleasure to meet Sam Snoek-Brown, Yuvi Zalkow, and Julia Clare Tillinghast. 

Dena Rash Guzman

The readings were phenomenal, as were they, as people...GOOD PEOPLE, as they say. Portland was an enjoyable city--reminded my a lot of Austin, Texas, in fact, they even stole their slogan.

Me, Dena, Sam, Julia, Yuri and Parker

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 Friday's Guardian Angels: Danny Gicker (a University of Delaware buddy) and Kerri (lucky to remember the first name, so last name not incluced). Had a great time with Danny and Kerri was super nice. She asked tons of questions, which is a great way to be nice. Went to a street vendor for Mexican and for dinner, a New Orleans tapa place, called Tapalaya! Blessed to have some old and new friends.

Strange But True Portland Stories: The only down side was that the kitchen area in the back was noisy. Kitchen work is hard work and communication is key, but the chefs seemed to be yelling about opening the mayonnaise or lighting pilot lights or other such shit. So notes (old school text messages) were passed.