VNV Nation in Portland

I’m savoring a pickle slice in the parking lot of an AM/PM. It’s a leftover from the delicious three-meat meal I enjoyed with Kristen at Botto’s, a fantastic BBQ spot in Portland. The macaroni and cheese with penne noodles and garlicky, cheesy goodness was like a decadent pasta dish.

With two hours to go until the concert, these adventurous ladies are planning their next move, and Kristen surprised me with a suggestion, “Want to go to a museum?”

“No” I said too quickly that later made me contemplate an apology. However, little did I know, she meant a tree museum, aka arboretum. With the rain starting to fall, we’ll see how that adventure unfolds.

Earlier, I had a lanyard around my neck as I stepped into the rare book section at Powell’s Books. It was a fascinating experience to see books displayed behind glass, with price tags ranging from under $100 to a staggering $25,000 for a 1st edition copy of Lewis & Clark’s Expeditions.

I felt a sense of empowerment, almost like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” at the upscale shops. The opportunity to own a piece of history was thrilling, and unlike a museum, there would be no taser and drive to the police station to worry about when taking it home.

I just don’t think Dave would be on board for the $4000 price tag.

Again, we sit. At a booth in a bar, people watching and waiting until VNV Nations 7pm showtime. I’m definitely an outsider here with my white-striped tank top, gray sweater, and white tennies, as the attire here is 99% black – shirts, sweatshirts, laced-up boots.

A little culture difference never hurt anybody right?

Like earlier when Kristen thought – while I went in AM/PM – she could wait in her car at the gas pump without purchasing gas. Wrong. We’re in Oregon baby, and that means an attendant will quizzically look at you and say “How many gallons would you like?”

I was equally disoriented when my $9.99 charger purchase (I accidentally grabbed Dave’s instead of mine) rang up as $9.99. Doi! No tax.

Well, we’re 20 minutes before showtime and I imagine we’ll be heading in soon. I’ll sign off and you see over the border next tomorrow.

Hold on! We’re standing in the front row pre-show and Kristen’s talking to a fan that “has waited 24 years” to see this group and also said that he cried when he bought the tickets.

Which made it all the better watching him sing along to every song and get several fist bumps from the lead singer. What a delight it was to see a person’s day made perfect!

Onto a three hour ride home. Thanks for being here.

Love, Jaclynn