I would be bucking the stereotype if I didn’t tell you about this delectable event, and that sounds like too much effort so early in the new year. So, I’ll admit I’m one of those: Hi, I’m Emily and I’m a chocoholic. You can just bet you’ll see me at the World Forestry Center’s 5^th Annual Chocolate Fest.

It’s only two slim days, so to speak, but they are days filled with dark, milk, and white deliciousness. Of course there will be vendors, presentations and demonstrations. That’s all fine and good, but my time there will be spent doing what every chocolate lover should and will be doing: tasting. And if there is anyone out there who believes that it’s all about the same, it is time to learn a lesson. A sweet, sweet lesson.

Ciao,

Emily

I always think that, after the excitement and chaos of the holidays, January can seem pretty dull. It’s a great time to travel, everyone’s gotten their ya-yas out flying in November in December, and it’s a perfect time to see Oregon.

If you have a business trip to Portland coming up, or even if you don’t, you should take advantage of the “three nights for the price of two” hotel special. You can spend a day tooling around the city one day— the world-famous Powell’s Books is just a quick stroll from the deLuxe, and there are great restaurants and boutiques in the same ‘hood—and then maybe head out for a cool hike in Forest Park the next day (it’s the country’s largest inner-city park, BTW). Spending a few days, and getting a third night free, is a great way to see a great city, if you ask me.

Have fun,

Brandon