Mon February 5- Arriving at the cabin

After spending the weekend in Portland in the Blooms, we were ready to make the cabin our home. We havenow been here for three weeks and have gradually adjusted to living in a temperate rain forest. Average MONTHLY rainfall at this time of year in the Mt. Hood National Forest in 10-12". Despite its beauty, it is wet and there is an appreciable absence of light except on some days when the sun shines like below!

However, 10 miles away and 2000' feet higher is more snow that you could imagine; we have become regular snowshoers.

We have joined a brand new health club in Sandy, a town about 20 minutes away and have worked out daily. After all those farewell lunches and dinners, we could stand to lose a few and we are well on our way!

We go to the Sandy Public Library for internet access, books, and newspapers and have become regulars at "Freddie's, the local Super Walmart in Oregon (no, we haven't become "greeters" yet!)

Like all hearty Oregonians, we are learning to "find the light." Sunbreaks can be fleeting this time of year but it is always there, so you just have to find it!

We miss all of our family and friends and hope this will help us stay connected with you all. Life is good!!