Back from Portland, where I spent two days on the coast, near Tillamook. I felt so at home there, thanks to the warmth of my friend and host and thanks also to the environment and surroundings.

Now, back on the rez, where I was to teach intersession language arts, but classes were canceled due to poor turnout. Going to enjoy the rest of my break by hiking around the rez and Monument Valley.

I had to drive to Phoenix yesterday to work out teaching cert. issues. I'm growing more and more convinced that our government doesn't really want teachers to teach. But then, I'm awful with paperwork and bureaucratic mazes. I'm always amazed by the drive to Phoenix from the rez, however: green buttes, jutting mountains that look like inactive volcanoes, saguaro and cholla cacti, giant bolders and rock formations, canyons and red rivers. Despite the errand, the views made the drive worthwhile.