Perfection at its Peak

Some friends we met a year ago
On an Italian tour
Said, "Visit us in Oregon -
We'd love to see you more."

It took a year but here we are
And what a day they planned!
We drove 200 miles, viewing
So much gorgeous land.

From Vista House, we made our way
Up to Multnomah Falls.
The photos don't do justice
To a sight that just enthralls.

Hood River was our destination
Next to stop for lunch,
But first we checked out all the shops
Before we got to munch.

Delicious food, a killer view
Of windsurfers and kites;
A mild and sunny day we had
To add to our delights.

Next stop, the lodge at Timberline,
A rustic ode to wood,
The views a bit obscured but still,
We'd stay there if we could.

From there, a little detour
To a campground by a stream
With wine and cheese, bread, grapes and jam -
It felt just like a dream.

There even was s tablecloth -
Such planning all this took!
Reliving childhood days, I tossed
Some sticks into the brook.

At last, a visit to their home,
An elegant retreat.
(We surely have a knack to find
The best folks we can meet!)

Some drinks on the veranda,
Then some steaks cooked on the grill;
Potatoes, salad, yummy tart -
We more than ate our fill!

They drove us "home" - the day was like
Perfection at its peak.
All this from friends so special,
Though we've known them just a week!

(Dedicated to John and Debbie)