Well Settled in "Wor Hoose" !

As February approaches it will be 4 years since we arrived here from the UK and Carole and I still remain convinced it was the best move we ever did. There are a lot of good reasons for living here in Oregon but first and foremost is the simple truth that our quality of life is far better than it would have been if we had stopped in the UK. Currently there is still a recession in Oregon and a lot of job losses with the economy badly hit however there appears that we are moving in the right direction and hopefully leading to a full recovery. I still work at Eagle Crest Resort and still enjoy my role at the Front Desk Reception where my Geordie accent appears to be "awsome" to my American visitors! Carole has finally retired from the resort and is now a lady of leisure. For myself I will carry on until I feel the need to call it a day but not just yet, there is still life in the old dog for a further year or so! I try to make use of the Resort sport facilities which are a "perk" to all employees where I use the treadmill on a regular basis. However I don't recomend trying to take your sweater off when it's in motion. Falling over backwards isn't good for your ego when others are watching! Use of the sauna, swimming pools and 3 golf courses further enhances this great resort. Sadly my damaged discs in my lower back prevents me using the golf course but I do use the putting course to best advantage. Don't think I will be as good as Tiger Woods - well at golf that is!! Carole and I did our share of travelling having recently took a holiday in San Diego which allowed us to visit Los Angeles including the usual tourist locations like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Disneyland and Universal Studios where I was aquainted with the lovely Marilyn Monroe! Trips also to Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Chicago ensured we saw a bit more of this wonderful country. We shall be going back to Chicago in August to attend the wedding of our son Alan who after a long bachelor career has been finally caught by the lovely Lacy!! Both very well suited for each other and maybe just maybe Carole and I will be Grandparents in the future! Our daughter Debbie has finally obtained her working visa to remain in the USA and is settled in her appartment also in Chicago. The saga will finally conclude when hubby Darren leaves the UK permanently in April. If anyone tells you it is so difficult to obtain a visa to live and work in America let me say that is so definately true!! Of course there are still some things we do miss like fish and chips, english pubs, newspapers and steak and kidney pies but we are well adapted now to the American way of life even where I now ride the range on horseback! Finally I have to mention the other member of our family who is Geordie, the most wonderful little Westie dog in the world. A little guy with a super temperament and who is a joy to have around the place. Well thats my update for now, all that remains is to say to all family and friends, Carole and I wish you all good health and happiness for 2010 !!! I have updated our family pics so please click on the Photo Album on the left.