Last week, we got back from a trip through the Pacific Northwest, and packed a lot into one week. Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. were the big stop-overs with college tours all along the way. Yes....another daughter is getting ready to make her way out of the house and into the great big world. Those of you who've been there will understand. Those of you yet to watch your kids fly the coop.....hang on to every memory, cuz it goes by way too fast. But I wouldn't miss any of it .....even the tough bits. 

So, on with the journey......... After a tour of Chico State University ( Go Wildcats, whoop whoop!) we headed up to Oregon. After a stop at U of O in Eugene (beautiful campus!) , we headed up to Portland for a little tourist break. After checking into the Benson Hotel (more on that later!), we wanted to walk the Pearl District....it was time for a little shopping. I had not been to Portland for many years, so was very excited to see the city. Just by chance, we ended up HERE at Cargo. It turns out it is my new favorite store. At least for now. You know how fickle shoppers can be.

We ended up spending more time here than we had planned, but it is easy to get lost in the 10,000 square feet of  "showroom, flea market and international bazaar all rolled into one". I had to search for my daughter more than once when we each wandered off to look at another eye-catching shiny thing......

Cargo imports from China, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Nepal, Vietnam, Africa and Mexico. Get a load of the goodies.....

High fives....

Baskets of baskets....

Baskets of birds....

Birds that can whistle....if you add water....

I was particularly taken with the eyes on a chain...proof positive that mother's really can see what goes on behind their backs.....

I have always wanted one of these.....

Rows of robes.....

Bits and pieces.....big pieces.....

Pairs of pairs....

Fans to cool off after hiking through ......

And plenty of foo dogs to go around...

This guy will tell you.

CARGO. Check it out. Tie a string to the front door to find your way back out. Or not....you may want to just stay.