rockergirrl responded June 18, 2007 at 12:54AM

  www.findbarefootbooks.com

I can relate to the back and forth in you decision making about this. My DH and I met and married in SF and moved back east. We have been here for 7 years now but we still think about SF all the time. We never thought we would have stayed here for this long. But now that i have the kiddos I can't imagine living in the city again. This "large town" I live in now seems big enough for me. Good luck with your choice. The most important thing to remember is the move doesn't have to be forever. Go and rent a place. If you hate it - move back.

  momotogo responded June 18, 2007 at 5:12PM

  

We made the move from the SF area to a rural part of the East Coast too. We just hit the 5 year mark. I sometimes go through urban withdrawal, but there are a couple of big metros 2 or 3 hours either north or south. I used to miss having access to lot's of cultural events, options for going out or eating out, but at this point I can't see myself living there again. I go for visits to see my family & friends - who I do miss - but not the rest of the regular insanity. I love the life we have here, there's room to roam, and the pace is wonderful. I'm with rockergirrl, check it out for a year (all seasons), rent, and see how you like it.

  birdiehandmade responded June 18, 2007 at 10:30PM

  

I agree with the above posts. You'll definately miss some parts of your old life, but I'm sure you'll discover new things that you love too. Plus, you can always move again.

  Sticky_Mommy responded June 19, 2007 at 9:28AM

  I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Portland is great, it's a small (ok tiny) city with a communtiy feel. You'll find all sorts of crafty, young, hip, arty people. And lots of kids too.

There is surfing in OR, just a bit chilly-er!