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"Have you filled up in the state of Oregon before?" he replied.
I had to think. "No, I don't believe I have," I surmised.
"In Oregon", he informed me, "it is a requirement of state law that the pumping mechanism is only operated by an attendant." He proceeded to fill the tank and clean the windscreen with a smile and a happy word or two.
The scenery in Oregon continued to be impressively Nordic, although you soon became used to it. Portland seemed to be a beautiful city, with lots of bridges and waterfronts. The traffic spoilt it a little, though. I intend to see more of Oregon on my way back south, as on this occasion I am bound by my need to be at the airport early tomorrow.
After Portland, we enter Washington state, and the scenery is dominated more by water than by trees. There are fine views of the Columbia river to the west, and the ever present might of the snow capped Mount St. Helens to the east.
We soon enter the urban sprawl of Tacoma and Seattle, and make our way to the motel I have booked, originally just for myself. We check in, and I am delighted to find there is a lake within walking distance, and a bus stop to the city centre directly opposite. We have failed in our last ditch attempt to get Sal on the flight to Alaska, so I must abandon her for a couple of days – hence the environs of the motel are more important to me than usual.
We set out in search of food, having been directed by the receptionist to a place where the omnipresent national franchises abound. We then look a little further, and come across something called the Roaster. This turns out to be a remarkable place, which prides itself on roasting and smoking meat. All these processes are visible to the diner. The food is excellent, and the place also stocks a full range from the Alaska micro-brewery.
Back at the hotel, I pack for the morning, with Sal's assistance. Those of you who have ever seen a Wilkins pack will know that this is a wise thing to do.
I then make the ultimate sacrifice, a five o'clock wake up call, as tomorrow I am Alaska bound.
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