2 things

1. I can't believe I haven't written about my new love affair before now: Coconut Bliss ice cream. It's sooo good. The flavors are delicious, plus the ingredients are organic and fair-trade, and all vegan. Coconut milk is used instead of soy milk, which gives it a creamy, rich taste similar to cream (my apologies if you're allergic to coconut!). Agave nectar is used instead of sugar, which means the sweetness is just as rich, and it doesn't leave me with a headache like sugar usually does. It really is amazing, and now that the weather is gorgeous, it's a perfect time to try it!

2. Last night was Last Thursday on Alberta Street. I got there late (darn the #8 bus), so I wasn't able to explore the stores as much I would have preferred, but I did get to eat at a delicious establishment. Francis Restaurant had a special Last Thursday "happy hour" menu. That didn't necessarily mean their prices were less, but it looked like they offered items that are not usually on their menu (also, I think they are usually not open for dinner). I had a vegan 4-bean burger with veganaize on toasted focaccia, served with a combination of greens. It was absolutely delicious. It didn't hurt that I hadn't eaten since 12:30, and it was 10 before I ate last night, but I'm sure the food would have tasted wonderful even if I had not been quite so hungry. A cool side note: on the way to the restaurant, we encountered a little "booth" selling vegan cupcakes and ginger snap cookies. Only in Portland!