Portland in three weeks.

Due to my host's refusal to let me commit to less than a three months stay, I decided to head up to Portland after labor day. I have officially signed up for my class.

I went to the Sonoma fair with Olivia the other day (y'know the 13 year old), and we had the grandest of times. I know its real lame to hang out with a 13 year old as much as I do, but if you met her you would surely understand. I feel like I am the thirteen year old that I never was when I am around her, and well, she is one of the funniest people I have ever met. We rode rides, played games, watched horse races, I got my palm read, ate chocolate bacon and a variety of other interesting foods, and went home happy.

A few days ago I went to Fort Ross. Here I am on top of a rock that looks like a walrus (or so my mother thinks).

Though you certainly can't tell from the picture, Fort Ross is an exquisitely beautiful locale. I think I would like to return to Northern California one day. I love the climate and the combination of mountains and oceans and trees. I think going to Portland is going to be kind of a shock for me at first because I am not used to being anywhere near the city. I have grown accustomed to seeing more trees than people on a daily basis. Nonetheless, I am terribly excited!

I kill big bugs now,

and jump off really tall things into water.

Also,

I feel compelled to keep moving north after labor day. I found this nationally renowned writer's workshop in Portland and Justin has invited me to come live with him and his girlfriend for free while I am taking the class.

Two days ago a woman named Basha (a friend of Ruth, the woman I am staying with) called me to ask if I would come live at her farm in Marin and take care of her goats, chickens, cats, koi fish, and parrots for two months. I would have my own bedroom and bathroom, and would not have to pay rent. Two weeks ago, an artist friend of Lauri's who lives in Sebastopol asked if I wanted to come work for him and sublet a place nearby for 300$ a month. Neither place is North.

When I told my new friend Mark about the opportunity he was terribly upset that I would even consider working for another artist rather than pursuing my own art and writing. I was flattered, but it is not making my decision any easier; I am kind of terrified of being in a position where I am able, and even expected to work on my own art.

I have to tell Basha tomorrow whether I will be housesitting or moving North after labor day.