Vancouver / Friday / 1918
ok, i've just had dinner (fried tofu and veg, then an amazing chocolate mousse). here's the last batch...
flying in to Seattle
replica of the voyager airplane that flew all the way around the earth, piloted by Dick Rutan and Jeana Yaeger in 1986, Seattle airport
Tahoma or Mount Rainier, in the distance, as we left Seattle for Portland.
we stopped to get some supplies for the bus, and a few beers to celebrate my (32 hour-long) birthday!
Portland (probably my favourite town in the USA) shop window.... um... what?
TOFU wins!
Jesse and i met up with the lovely Brandon from the Helio Sequence (you must listen to their album keep your eyes ahead - it's brilliant). we went here for the finest cup of coffee in North America. fact.
Seattle
woke up early and went for breakfast down at the market. top hash browns! it's a lovely view, and we had a beautiful summer's day. met up with Jason from the fabulous Death Cab for Cutie and went to Don Bennett's drum store - half museum half shop, and a really nice, friendly, welcoming bunch of people.
one of the most depressing signs i've read in a long time. it's pretty clear that the state of the economy is hitting hard over here too. there are more closed-up stores and homeless folks than last time we were here. i really hope President Obama gets the support he needs to pass his plans for healthcare, and the many other reforms that the people here need. i also hope that some of the jobs that have gone return soon. This was the Outdoor Store, Seattle. How gracious, that in the toughest of times, probably the most depressing day, the owners thought to put up a sign saying thankyou - that's pure class, and that's what i love about the USA.
"ORD"
The stars of the show! Shawn Smith was fantastic - he has the most amazing voice, and was a pleasure to have with us. Jesse recommends the following: The Family or EDC by Satchel; Shame or Interiors by Brad; or any of his solo records.
turns out there's a disused swimming pool under the venue in Seattle - naturally, i wanted to have a look...
i turned the corner to see this life-sized father christmas staring at me. it was like a horror movie, and i was about to get axed to pieces.
dan and me (as a ghost!)
