Living in this beautiful area of Southern Oregon, surrounded by forests, rivers, lava flows, caves and lakes, our biggest challenge is to figure out which wonderful terrain we want to go see when there is so much gorgeous scenery to see.

One of our most favorite destinations is Howard Prairie Lake. This mountain lake experiences some wonderful breezes, making it not only the lake of choice for boaters looking to fish, ski or cruise (like we do), but it is ideal for the sailboats, too.

This is our third year keeping our boat at Howard Prairie Lake during boating season. My family and I often times head up to the boat after work from Ashland, or on the weekends from our home in Medford. Only 30-45 minutes and we feel like we are in a whole new world. We go there to unwind and be together, to cool off when things warm up in the Rogue Valley, to fish, to play in the water, to see the wildlife, to read and enjoy the fresh air, sometimes to sleep out under the stars, sometimes to enjoy the company of friends. Some times we load up the coolers and stay out on the lake for hours on end, sometimes I'm lazy and we come in to eat at the restaurant at Howard Prairie Lake Resort and enjoy their good food. There is nothing like rolling in after a night under the stars to enjoy a great cup of coffee and one of their breakfasts.

This past Friday, what to go see and do was an easy decision to make. How we went about it was new and different. It was our first "Ladies Only Sunset Cruise"! "Rules" were: no spouses, boyfriends, kids, or pets allowed - just the ladies; bring what you want to snack on or drink, bring some to share if you'd like; if you're meeting the carpool straight from work, don't worry we'll cover you. Our objective, have a relaxing time and good conversation.

Mission accomplished! The water was like glass and the temperature so nice, it was well in to dusk by the time we pulled up to the dock. It was a great way to start off the weekend, enjoying The Good Life here in Southern Oregon. Can't wait to go again!

See you out there!

Karen Cooper - OR/CA Mortgage Consultant - www.Quality4Loans.com