The wake up call came at 6:00 am. I was so exhausted that I could hear the phone but could not manage to move to answer it. Luckily the significance of the event registered in my tired mind and I did not go back to sleep. So much for staying awake for 22 hours and trying to recover on 5.5 hours of sleep.

My first day in Portland has been quite nice. An early morning glimpse from my 9th floor hotel balcony revealed the Columbia River and an unexpected treat, the most beautiful bright red maple trees I think I have ever seen. The maples are not a phenomenon just under my balcony; all over the city leaves of yellow, bright orange, burgundy and red grace trees lining the streets and walkways of Portland. What an incredible urban color display! Hard to believe I had to fly to the Northwest to experience one of the most beautiful falls that I can remember. The day has remained overcast and gloomy although we almost saw the sun for a few moments. The high today was 53.

Dave and I spent all morning and early afternoon in meetings. The highlight of our day has been the social event of sharing food and good conversation. Twice we have patronized McCormick & Schmick's establishments. For lunch we took a group to McCormick & Schmick's Harborside at the Marina where we dined on fabulous seafood and corn chowder and mediocre dungeness crab melt sandwiches. Jake's, a staple on the Portland dining scene since 1832, was our choice for dinner. Joining us were several people who shared several hours of lively conversation and a meal that included excellent crab leg appetizer and so-so clam chowder. My entree was a superb combination of crab, artichoke and mushrooms sauteed in a wine sauce. Yummy!

Now I am looking forward to a long night's sleep. I hope to feel like myself tomorrow and not struggle so to stay alert.