We smell much better this year

Greetings from the unusually calm Oregon coast!

A year ago, we were wrapping up the final touches on an anniversary story to rival our sand-bagged Kauai Debacle of 2006. But unlike Kauai, we decided we had enough fun here in Cannon Beach last year to give it another go. That plus a “you blew us away with your service” letter to the hotel's management resulted in the unexpected and highly appreciated free dinner and lodging. Apparently the exhausted and equally stranded staff received a pile of letters blaming them for the lack of electricity, lack of hot water, lack of phone service, flooding, road closures, basically the Big Storm of 2007 in general. Amazing what just a word or two of kindness can reap for all involved.

Now, a year later, the seagulls are flying easily over the calm ocean. Piped Christmas Musak is in full swing. The decorative pine boughs are stationary. And I can post a blog update while Rob enjoys a long hot shower.

We have gotten rather used to travel disasters. 90 mph winds. Flooding. Norwalk. So it's a bit disconcerting having things go as planned. We're not complaining, mind you. We're just a little edgy. Perhaps a stroll on the beach is in order. And don't worry, we'll stay far away from the water's edge.