Molalla?

Angela found out about an elk farm on the way to Portland in the Willamette Valley.  Elk farm, you say?  We’re there.

We made an appointment with the owner, Brenda, and set out for our tour of the farm.  We learned so much about elk farming that I think we might actually be able to start raising them ourselves if the State of Oregon wasn’t already trying to shut them all down.

Brenda is an ‘outlier’ – not among the average.  The type of person who lives every day passionately and deliberately succeeds at whatever she pursues.    She got into elk farming after seeing a show on the Discovery Channel.  This was followed by years of research, persistence, and a lot of luck.  Her days now involve taking care of all her beloved animals, schooling her kids at home, and hosting community events on her beautiful farm – a snow-capped Mt. Hood dominating the horizon.  We were both envious of the harmonious life she’s created for her family… not to mention all of the elk sausage you can eat.

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Speaking of Mt. Hood, my beautiful and intelligent wife has managed to land a gig reviewing hotels.  One near Mt. Hood, anyway.

There’s no telling where this will lead, but we’ll start by enjoying the benefits of working with the first client. The primary benefit, of course, is not sleeping in the rain.  The other bennies involve regulation croquet courses and sleekly designed rooms with luxury baths.

Seriously, this change of pace is greatly appreciated.  If you’ve ever been on a long trip and wanted a vacation from your vacation, you know what I’m talking about.  Anyway, we’re sticking around Mt. Hood for a few days.

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“Diligence is the mother of good luck.”

Benjamin Franklin

7 thoughts on “Molalla?

  • September 11, 2009 at 2:09 PM
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    I had such a nice time showing your lovely family around the farm. My husband was envious that he did not get to meet you. I put you on facebook and my husband posted about you to all the guys he works with. Everyone seems to think you guys are leading a life we all wish we were bold enough to do. May God be with you, protect you and guide you. We will be watching with anticipation to see what your next endevors will be. If you ever come back this way and our B&B is open, you are welcome to stay.

  • September 11, 2009 at 2:19 PM
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    What a great story and a great life! Are you two adopting any children. I know, I know, I’m a 38 year old blues and gospel singer in Oregon, but I promise, if you took me with you, I’d do the dishes and keep my room clean!

    I also love this elk farm and Brenda’s family. I’m still thinking I could sneak in and leave with them without being noticed…still trying to figure out how to do that.

    God bless you on your travels and take a bit of my heart with you.

  • September 11, 2009 at 6:36 PM
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    Congratulations on landing that gig! Cheers, Bree

  • September 12, 2009 at 11:39 AM
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    Spotted Red Beard (with Jason at the wheel) driving down Burnside last evening in Portland. Nearly got a case of whiplash when I realized it was you… Hope you are enjoying Portland!!! Sorry about the heat – it’s not normal!! I love my city. E-mail me if you have any questions or need any advice…

    Peace,
    Joe

  • September 12, 2009 at 9:40 PM
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    Congrats on the reviewing gig! Wonderful. I hope you all enjoy ‘your vacation from your vacation’!

  • September 13, 2009 at 9:16 AM
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    Hi! Where are you now? Still in Oregon? Sounds and looks like you are having a great time.

    My niece drove the ExSport to Reno and then down 395 to Palm Springs. Not too smart as she blew a tire and discovered the AC didn’t work. I told her that Angela probably never turned it on around here and didn’t know it wasn’t working. Anyway, she’s staying in P.S. with her mom. She got everything fixed and loves the car.

    Where are you headed next? Give me plenty of time to make reservations for you in PV Mexico. You’ll love it. Bodes will too as there all kinds of kids things for him.

    Have a safe trip and continue to enjoy. Hugs! Dee

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