Hi Sarah:  What an absolutely great way to re-energize yourself and your friends.  That sounds like something we all need to do in some way or other.  Re-lighting our fuses and regaining our energy in such a positive way as you describe sounds like so much fun.  You Go Girls !

 By the way... I see you live in Oregon City.  I visited a friend in Cornelius... just west of Portland a few years ago, and spent five weeks with her... kind of doing for myself personally what you just described.  I know the "falls" in Oregon City are not as impressive as many by most standards... but I found it so relaxing just standing... or sitting when I could... along the railing by the falls there along the Willamette in Oregon City.  It was just a little thing... and usually nobody else was there... but I found it very relaxing.  Take care...    Karen Anne

We do "girls night out at the Melting pot" $35 4 course meal, tip included... The melting pot knew how to 'target' us choc-o-haulic and cheese lovers... all kidding aside it's FUN!

OK....I'll let my wife go out on Saturdays so that I can watch college football (Ohio State Buckeyes) with my son.  I am all for it!!!   Jess Rankin, Pickering Group  (check out my profile)

Sarah-You have reminded me how easy it is, if we just take the time to getaway.  After the holidays, I will make that promise to myself to have a girls night out.  Thank you for the inspiration and have a wonderful week. 

Sarah, I believe the girls weekends are great.  I didn't start doing this until last year.  My hobby is making jewelry and beadwork.  I went to four retreats last year and already reserved one for January and one in March that is a Bead Cruise to the Carribeans.  I love it.  Quite a break from real estate. We need our R&R.

Karen Anne ~  Thanks for adding your thoughts.  How wonderful for you to have had some time out here is the beautiful state of Oregon!  I love being here.  I know what you mean about the Falls at the Willamette.  We all kind of take things for granted when it is in our backyard.  I think that is why when you were there it was quiet.  Somehow being around the power of a waterfall is reassuring.  Let me know when you come out again the next time!  Have a great week!  :)

Julie ~  I am going to try to remember to make you follow up on that promise to yourself.  It is just so necessary, and dare I even say it...deserved!  We work hard, we need to remember to play hard and laugh hard too!  Thanks for visiting!  :)

Katrina ~  Hi, and thank you  for adding to this post.  I have not ever been to the Melting Pot.  We do have one here in Portland.  In fact, us girls are scheduled to go there in January for a dinner.  The plan is to have the large group for that one.  For the beach, though, there are only seven of us who go, so it is much more intimate and personal.  Both are good.  I am looking forward to the January dinner...particularly as you mentioned how divine it is!  :)  Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Jess ~  I see hoe you are....ulterior motives to get the wife  out so you can have some father-son time.  What a great thing to do.  Those memories with your son you both will cherish as long as you live.  And I did check out the profile...have a great holiday with your family!

Kay ~  What a neat hobby.  I used to do the same thing a lot myself.  I always felt so blessed to be able to have some creativity.  And though I have been to the Caribbean, I did not make any jewelry!  What a wonderful time!  I would suspect that there would be some terrific and unique beads available.  I would love to see some of your creative works of art!  Share them with the class, will you??