C'MON OVER....THE WEATHER'S FINE!

During the past week, much of the national weather news centered on the Pacific Northwest. First, it was torrential rains and hurricane-force winds, then severe flooding that closed major roads, and finally, mud slides.

I'm pleased to tell you that it's over. Yesterday and today, it was clear. Although colder than usual -- which translates into great powder for Oregon's many ski resorts -- the sun is shining again.

Speaking of snowboarding, skiing and other winter sports, did you know that The Fulton House is less than 90-minutes away from Mt. Hood, where skiers can really enjoy the slopes every day. Mt. Hood is also home to Timberline Lodge, a national treasure built by FDR's Works Project Administration back in the Great Depression years. This gem of a lodge is on the National Register of historic places and showcases the output of the dozens of artisans who built it. It's filled with hand-carved bannisters, an enormous fireplace, hand-hewn beams and rafters from native Douglas fir, and many other features. The lodge is a great place to sit down to a delicious lunch and then enjoy a beer while toasting in front of the fire.

The drive home to The Fulton House is on a U.S. Highway and then Interstate 84, so weather is not usually a problem. However, make certain your vehicle has studded snow tires, chains or other traction devices, just in case.

Once again, I'm happy to report that the bad weather has passed and we can welcome you to the great City of Portland. See you soon!