“I hear it’s nice there”

That’s what every person in Utah and Arizona has responded, when I’ve replied, “Portland, Oregon” to their standard be-friendly-to-tourists question, “Where are you from?”. Good to know we still enjoy a fine reputation. I was amused by the reaction of the checker in Moab, Utah, when I followed up with, “Yes, but you have a great place here, too”. She gave a broad smile, lifted her chin, squared her shoulders, and said, “Yes, we do!” and gave me a genuine rather than token “Have a nice day!”. I found this entertaining because it was 100 degrees and 6% humidity outside, and it’s only June. Three months of that kind of heat, no matter how beautiful the scenery, would not be for me. Even my hair has gone straight after a week with almost no moisture in the air. It looks a good two inches longer, and I’m startled by looking at a strange reflection when I catch a glimpse in the mirror.

Today, we re-encounter urban America (and coastal moisture) with a swing to the opposite extreme. We’re dropping Luke off at the Las Vegas airport, then picking up Ali in Los Angeles. She’s attending Anime Expo in Long Beach this weekend; Luke needs to return home early, to work and to prepare for leaving for summer study in England on Thursday. So nice to have grown-up children who can fit into family plans or do their own thing, as mutually desired. On Sunday, we’ll return to the National Parks by coming home via Yosemite.

Fun quote by ESPN’s Bill Simmons on his NBA Draft Diary:

“4:35: Jay Bilas calls Greg Oden “the ultimate high character guy.” I would have gone with Gandhi.”

Good to read the Blazers did so well in the draft, in reputations as well as in basketball skills.