Ashland, Oregon is in the southwest section of the state, in line with the Cascade chain of volcanoes, not too far from the coast. It’s home to what is probably the best-known, and best-produced, Shakespearean Festival on the West Coast. Beautiful town, beautiful theater, in a breathtaking valley ringed by mountains. My mom lives here, and one of my brothers, which was one reason why I asked to be booked for a signing. Also a great art community.

Yeah this is the heart of Granola country, but you’ve got to love Oregon for that. Everyone’s so hip, and enlightened, and so freaking considerate. Different from California and yet not. The same thing exists there, it’s just buried under layers of overpopulation.

My talk was in the library, then the signing at Bloomsbury Books after. As in Marin, as in Palo Alto, this was a great crowd too. Abstractionists, realists, ceramists, sculptors, you name it. Talented people just looking for a gallery owner to be straight with them. Well if there’s on thing I love, it’s eliminating the BS factor and the snobbery.

Spent time with my mom and brother later. Took his crotch rocket for a ride; some kind of Suzuki with a jet engine. Topped out at 175; I was content to go half that speed. I mean it ain’t my bike to get killed on. We spent a great day together doing chores, playing jokes and telling stories. She’s 80; could pass any time now, but I think not. Believe I’ll come back next summer with my family to visit. Perhaps take in Taming of the Shrew while we’re here. That would be just fine.