The Oregon coast is one of the most stunning places on earth. Here, you can contemplate the mysteries of the universe as you stroll down the beach, hike through majestic forests or marvel at a gorgeous sunset.

My mind tends to wander towards the more prosaic:

Why are there 15 bead and glass blowing shops but only one car wash?

Why can’t we get decent Internet and phone service?

Are the whales actually showing off, or are they oblivious?

What makes plants grow this huge?

Why is there no decent pizzeria when so many families with children visit and live in the area?

How does the place serving truly horrible pizza stay in business?

Why do the blackberry bushes have more brambles than blackberries?

When is Walgreen’s pharmacy actually closed for lunch?

Why do people visit a beautiful place and then litter?

Why is there only one liquor store when there are so many local drunks, visitors, and drunken visitors?

Why are there so few doctors in an area where there are so many seniors?

How long will it take us to visit all 500 wineries in Oregon wine country?

Why won’t some dog owners pick up their dog’s poop unless someone’s watching?

How do all the t-shirt stores make money?

What does the Christmas store do the rest of the year?

Why does the landscape guy only show up after we’ve mowed the lawn?

 

And mostly… why does summer have to be so damn short?!