The last time we'll......

As the move to Boston nears so many 'routine' events are fast becoming memorable "the last time we'll...." events. For example, I, as you know, give blood every 8 weeks at the local blood bank. I donated recently and realized that I will not be eligible to donate again until after we move! It was my 'last blood donation' at that spot! As we prepare for our big move, several little things like this have become momentous occasions to recognize and appreciate the things we love about living in the Eugene area. What a tremendous reminder to 'live in the present'...whether we are moving away or staying here. All we really 'have' is right NOW.

Along these lines Trina and I are going to Newport, Or this weekend for what we expect will be our last trip to the Oregon Coast before we move to Boston. Newport is one of our favorite coastal destinations and we have visited periodically throughout our 7.5 year relationship. We have made day trips involving picnics and chowder, weekend trips to stay with friends in houses above the beach, and trips involving furious winds and bone-chilling temperatures. But, no matter the conditions, we always enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the salty sea air, and the chance to stroll through touristy shops and boutiques while sipping a latte or hot cocoa.

As if visiting Newport isn't enough of a treat, we have been gifted (for my birthday back in March) a night at one of the sweetest bed and breakfasts in Newport: the Ocean House. It is a tremendous gift and one that comes at the PERFECT time. What better way to unwind from all the demands of preparing to move cross country than by taking 24 hours off and staying at the Ocean House? Our room is complete with GORGEOUS ocean view, soaking tub (I may never leave), beautiful decor, incredible food and all the peace and quiet you could ever want! Ahhhhhh. Just with the 'dr' ordered.

Soaking up our last (gulp) trip to Newport for some time will involve all of our favorite stops. I am in LOVE with the beach...so this means that poor Trina will be subject to much walking in the cold, windy conditions forecast for the weekend. I promise to treat her kindly and with copious hot beverages and chowder. We will also visit the Rogue Brewery...one of my favorite spots! Rumor has it that they make a
KILLER burger (which I have never had). I have a sneaky suspicion that Trina will be updating her facebook status with some delicious details regarding some massively tantalizing burger on Saturday around the lunch hour. I will likely be savoring the locally brewed, delicious espresso stout or 'dead guy' ale. Sigh. No trip to Newport is complete without strolling through the waterfront area with a latte, and of course we'll hit all the fun little boutiques around Nye Beach.

I had hoped that this summer I would cycle from Astoria to Brookings, but this dream was hatched before my realization that I would be funded to work in Boston starting July 1. This is just another reason to soak up the scenario along Hwy 101.