As I woke up this morning to the sound of seagulls screeching, I realized that I have never stayed at a hotel in downtown Portland. In fact, I am not sure I’ve even stayed at someone’s home here in the city.

I live only 6 miles from downtown but it might be a world apart for the early morning sounds! I don’t hear seagulls–at least, not this many seagulls–at my little house out in the country. Plus the other noises seem much more urban–trucks, cars, planes (well, I do hear planes at my house). I haven’t heard any ambulances or fire trucks, though.

I am sure folks from big cities are laughing as they read this. I bet Portland seems quiet and quaint compared to the raucous noise of New York City or Chicago! Still, I am surprised at how different it is from my usual morning nature’s melody wake-up.

I am enjoying a cup of coffee and then will be heading down to the lobby to set up the registration table. zKipster is working great–we registered 76 people in two hours yesterday! It was great to see so many friends and say hello!

Some people have meetings this morning but don’t forget: the conference officially opens with the Discover Portland Trolley tours which start at 1:30 pm. The weather report is great–it will be a perfect day for a scenic tour of the city and Portland Head Light. If I don’t see you at registration, well…see you on the trolley!

Leslie