One of the many reasons I love living in Portland is all the great festivals. Case in point, I did some web searching this morning for something to do and found out about a Polish Festival. One look at the photos of pierogi and kiełbasa and we were convinced to go try it out. We got there for lunch and I was in sausage and sauerkraut heaven.

The place had a wonderful vibe – filled with music and happily chatting people. The stage had non-stop dancing – all decked out in colorful wardrobe. And the perfect weather was a wonderful accompaniment.

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Jasmine was very excited to start her second class of gymnastics class today. This time, its girls only. Girl power! They did lots of warming up and what looked to me physically impossible stretching contortions. Then they did various tumbles, low bars, and balance beam activities. And yes, the class actually wore her out. Jasmine had to ‘rest her eyes’ on the ride home.

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We went to a unique event today – a pet parade. Dogs of all sizes, some even in costume, one very brave cat, and two goldfish were in attendance. There were prizes for Best in Show, Best Trick, Most Unique, Best Dressed.

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Jasmine and I headed to the city of Tigard’s annual family festival for food, fun, and fireworks. You might remember we attended last year’s festival. This year was bigger and better.

Last year it was held in the lawn behind the library. This year it was located at a regional park with playgrounds, game fields, picnic areas, and ample parking. Jasmine tested out all the playground activities. Her favorite was the arched monkey bars and the crazy seesaw contraption.

Last year the bbq was hotdogs and hamburgers. This year was pulled pork, mesquite beans, and potato salad. All were excellent. Unfortunately, Jasmine didn’t like the bbq pork, I think the taste and texture were too new for her. She said I would have to eat her sandwich. Oh, the sacrifices a dad must make for his daughter.

Last year dessert was icecream bars, this year was hand scooped double dipped waffle cones. Jasmine choose chocolate, and I choose black cherry swirl. We enjoyed our treats while listening to the band play patriotic songs at the park pagoda.

Jasmine played at the playground until evening, then we headed over to the open field with a blanket and snuggled while watching the amazing fireworks to close out another great family festival.

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Who wants to go the coast? I do. I do.

We enjoyed the scenic drive to the ocean. We met friends for a yummy Mexican lunch then spent the afternoon at the beach. The kids did their best to make sand castles, but they kept falling down.

After the beach, we headed to our favorite coastal destination, Tillamook Creamery, to get ice cream and cheese. During the ride home we stopped and walked along a beautiful babbling stream.

We arrived home tired but relaxed with the sound of the ocean still singing in our ears.

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