Arriving in a rare Portland monsoon using Portland's wonderfully efficient rail and bus public transportation, I was immediately welcomed by my host Rick. The house is spacious, tidy and well-kept - and the guest room fits the same description. Having a spotless bathroom for my own use as promised was one of the best reasons for staying here. My hosts were friendly and helpful, providing maps and public transportation schedules based on my needs for the week I would be staying with them. Because I was doing a course involving long days (and running early in the morning) our interaction was kept to a few shortish conversations and I was so grateful for the calm and quiet this house provided after an intense day. Nearby in the Woodlawn section of Portland are several restaurants of which I wish to mention two - Woodlawn Bakery and P's and Q's. I had asked my hosts to steer me to a good coffee shop and they did not disappoint. The bakery has flawless coffee and hearty breakfasts that allowed me to fuel up for the day. In the evenings, P's and Q's was just the right solution for a tasty evening meal that was delicious yet without pretension. Having rented a bike, I was able to get into central Portland within fifteen minutes from this place (my hosts graciously allowed me to store the bike in the garage). A slightly longer ride brought me to Powell's in downtown Portland where I was able to indulge my love of used books (and a fixed rate home shipping fee). This is an oasis of kindness and tranquility in Portland and I am grateful to have experienced it. I would very much like to come back here should I visit Portland in the future.