Y3 D13

Yesterday was the first day I came truly close to actually relaxing. Still not there as the internal battle rages on in my head. Put on the front. Put on the mask of sanity.

Drove to Portland yesterday with the kid and my niece. Went into town to a place where some friends from my old town now work. Unfortunately since it was a Tuesday no one was around, but the nice thing is at lunch they gave us the friends and family discount because they knew I was friends with the executive and sous chef. After lunch we wandered around downtown Portland going into vintage shops. I found a 70s red leather jacket in perfect condition for $40. We then headed to the hotel where we all crashed until it was time for dinner. For dinner we went to my friend's restaurant which I have mentioned before in these writings. The last time I was there was with my brother which was bittersweet being back. We had an incredible dinner -- poke, pork belly with tempura egg, razor clams with gnocchi, tortilla bisque, kailua pork, gorgonzola ravioli, coconut cheesecake, blueberry tart, and brownies. That's the courses I can remember. The owner/chef/friend came over about halfway through the meal and sat with us and we caught up. He poured me some drink he is serving at his late night happy hour on weekends which consisted of absinthe, vodka, tequila, white wine, and port. I had one. Only needed one. Total when he had the server bring the bill? $28.50. Was NOT expecting that. I won't lie, I was expecting him to knock something off like the desserts but not 75% of the bill. Seriously, we easily had 100 - 125 worth of food and drink. I gave the waitress a $45 tip which is closer to what she would have gotten on a normal bill plus a little extra. That was really nice and made my night.

We got back to the hotel around 10. I got us a suite so the girls are in the other room right now and I am in the front room. We are heading back at some point today but in no hurry. I need to be around people. I need to stop dwelling. I did send out a couple of messages on OKC yesterday. Of course, no responses. Makes me wonder why I even try...