Lansing, Michigan to Oregon: Some Questions and Concerns

[Crandall1]

Yeah, what everyone else said. Some comments from my own perspective:

I was raised in Eastern Oregon, but lived in NYC and Chicago for 25 years. Moved back to the Valley four years ago, and couldn't be happier. The winter takes a little getting used to, as it essentially rains every day from late September to around mid May. But as others mentioned, I sure didn't mind not having to shovel snow. The summers are incredibly nice. The temps are about the same as in Michigan or Illinois during the summer, but the humidity is 25% instead of 75-100%, so it _feels_ much cooler.

I snowboard as well. This is heaven for snowboarders, especially compared to Michigan. Mt. Hood and Mt. Bachelor are hubs of the sport, especially the latter. There are several regional areas as well; I personally prefer Hoodoo, which I live about 45 minutes from, as it is cheaper, closer, and never has lines at the lifts. There is also Willamette, and in the south Mt. Ashland. If you're in Portland, there are several areas in Washington worth visiting as well, and Whistler is a half-day drive or a short flight. Mountain biking (and biking in general) is very popular here as well.

I can't speak to the library job at all, but professional jobs are a bit hard to come by here, so I'd suggest coming out, finding a job, then moving. Otherwise, you'll end up being a barista at an espresso stand. (No shortage of jobs in that market.)

[SeeBee]

Originally Posted by Crandall1

Yeah, what everyone else said. Some comments from my own perspective:

Otherwise, you'll end up being a barista at an espresso stand. (No shortage of jobs in that market.)

Exactly. Where I shop, one of the grocery clerks has a degree in Russian language and literature. Go figure.

[MBLaLande]

Miganderwander: Thanks so much for all of the information – it’s so great to get an opinion from someone who lived in my area. I’m especially happy to hear about the weather (yes, I know exactly the morning breath you’re talking about!!). I’m also sooo glad to hear about the lack of nasty mosquitos and those dumb flies. I’ve always kind of thought that the constant green would help counter the grayness. Again, I really appreciate all you have said, and I’ll make sure to contact you when I have more questions!

Nell Plotts: I’m starting to think that’s exactly what we’ll do. All of these cities sound so wonderful that I don’t think this method will bring us regrets.

Crandall1: I agree – I’m so looking forward to not having to shovel snow (or walk for hours through it, trying to go from class to class on one of the country’s largest campuses!). My fiancé is getting very excited about all of the snowboarding as well.

Crandall1 / SeeBee: That is so sad, but I think this sort of job shortage is a problem in many places right now. I know a lot of young people (around my age) stuck working at minimum wage jobs after graduating from college.