snowchaser1

Hello, Funny you should ask about Eugene since I was the one who started this thread. I moved to Eugene about 3 weeks ago during a heat wave and we're having another one this weekend. It may get as hot as 100, but it doesn't last very long, maybe a few days, and then it's cooler, again. Most homes (unless they are newer) don't have airconditioning because, historically, they haven't needed it. We have some humidity, but not compared to Alabama, where I grew up. The nights always cool down a lot compared to the days and I hear that the winters are very mild. You'll have to drive to find snow. People here are very active in the summer and I see people out riding there bikes at all hours no matter the temperature or weather. So far, I like the area for it's green spaces, rivers, and bike paths. It's not far from the mountains and the coast. I have a lot of exploring to do! You can check out the two hospitals in the area and they are called Sacred Heart and McKenzie-Willamette. Both are planning to build new facilities in the near future. They list their pay on the particular job you look into on their respective websites. Hope this helps!

Findyourspot.com votes for Eugene, too! Thanks for the idea! I can't wait to move home to Oregon! Now, I just need a job.

Yes, I know alot about that area. I worked at RVMC nearly 5 years and lived in Ashland. I never thought I'd consider buying a house in Medford, but financial reality had to set in sometime. I've been away about 5 years and now it's time to settle down. I've changed specialties from ICU to tele/PCU. What does it mean to have magnet status? Thanks for your input!

Hello All! I am planning a move back to Oregon and am trying to figure out which city to pick. I love snow and snow sports in the winter and gardening and cycling/hiking the rest of the year. I don't like it too hot and dry in the summer. I also, need my arts and culture. Which town from the above list would best fit me in Oregon? Any help would be appreciated!

I'm looking to relocate to Oregon, again. I don't know much about Eugene but am very curious. I love green and rain! You mentioned a new hospital. Do you know about when they will be opening? Also, do you happen to know who are the most commonly used travel nurse companies in that area? Thanks for any info.

Thanks to everyone's input on my question! It's been a while since I visited to find all these responses. One person asked if I'd been swayed one way or the other. The truth is, I'd love to visit the state with all it's good and not so good. But, I've decided to stay on the west coast, at least for now, since I have family in Oregon and Washington. But I think the thing that makes me least interested in Maine is the humidity, not the cold winters. I grew up in Alabama and hated the humidity and mosquitoes! But, we don't get the thundershowers and fireflies out here, which I really do miss! I love to hear all your stories and I really appreciate your input!

Thanks for your feedback! I have been a nurse 12 years, but this is my first experience with a palm pilot system. I can understand the safety features, but am still new at using it. I hope I get better at it instead of more leary of it. I think it is really new to hospitals. Is this your understanging?

I've been using a palm pilot-type medication charting system for the last two months. It is called Accuscan and the med machine is Accudose. Has anyone used this system anywhere else and how do you like it? I, personally, do not like it because I feel it wastes a lot of time. The worst part of using it I think is checking off new med orders. Ugh! Any comments?

Hey, thanks for your honesty! Are you from Maine? Do you still live there? I only mentioned Portland because I figured they'd have the most travel nursing positions available. I've never been to Maine. Bend, OR-too dry in summer, Boulder--talk about expensive!!!!and waaaay crowded, Never been to Ketchem, ID. Been to Flagstaff but don't remember much and I have family in Rochester, NY. Thanks for the suggestions. Bellingham is lovely, but not enough snow for my taste--once again. Did go to Burlington last fall but only a few days. Maybe I should go back and check it out with my bicycle. Anyway, Any other towns in Maine that might meet my needs? I don't care if they're coastal.

I am presently living in Wenatchee, WA which is about 2 hours NE of Seattle after living in and near Seattle for 3+ years. It is much drier and sunnier here, but close proximity to mountains and outdoor adventure. Housing costs are much more reasonable and I'm working at Central Washington Hospital-a nice progressive place. It's not green enough for me and I'll probably move in the next few months, but you may find it wonderful! If you like mountains, apple orchards, smaller town life, and rivers and hiking trails a short drive away, you may want to check it out.

Attention all Mainers: I'm considering moving to Maine this summer (as a traveler and possibly to relocate pemanently) and I'd like to know a bit of what to expect. I have been deprived of snow and real "Christmas card experiences" most of my life and think that Maine may have what I'm looking for. I'm currently in Washington state but don't like having to commute to the snow. I want it to fall frequently in the city where I live. I want to XC ski right where I live. Can I expect this in Portland? I undestand that your winters are long and I'll just have to see how I do with that when I live there. I never think winter here is long enough! Please give me some advice and experiences. Oh, and do you get fireflies in the summer? Oh, and how about gardening? Will I be able to garden there or is the season too short? Thanks for any input!