Recently Laurie and I had a rare opportunity to get away for 24 hours. It had been almost 2 years since the last one. Since a lot of logistics are required for us to go anywhere we usually find it easier just to stay at home. I still believe that everyone needs a break once in awhile though!
When it looked like we were indeed going to pull this thing off Laurie began doing some research online. She had decided and I agreed that it would be foolish to see how far we could drive when we only had 24 hours and at least 8 of those would be spent sleeping. Anyway she discovered a neat getaway in Port Orford of all places that seemed to be just what we were looking for. The name is Wildspring Guest Habitat www.wildspring.com. They have private cottages in a beautiful wooded setting, a guest lodge, and lots of peace and quiet. They also provided a nice breakfast the next morning. 
It was entertaining for me just to roam around the grounds and look at all the garden art that was placed thoughtfully throughout the property. There was also a beautiful handmade outdoor spa with an ocean view which we enjoyed on Saturday evening even though it was during one of our coastal storms. 
The cottage was very nice and was built within the last 10 years. There were no phones but there was a small TV and stereo. Also no TV service is provided but the guest lodge has a nice selection of DVDs that would appeal to anyones tastes. Each cottage has a massage table and Laurie opted to have a therapist come and work on her for 90 minutes. Meanwhile I had the luxury of reading a book which is something I rarely get to do. 
Now for a bit of trivia! The next morning we were walking up to the guest lodge for breakfast. Another guest was just ahead of us also on her way there. Once inside we visited with her and found out she was from Seattle. As Laurie and I were eating suddenly Laurie said that she thought this lady looked familiar. I didn't think much of it at that point. A few minutes later Laurie spoke up again and said "I've seen her wearing a red coat standing out in the snow." A short time later Laurie finished her breakfast and was outside talking with the owner. I quickly glanced over at this person's table and now I was beginning to think that somehow she looked familiar as well. As I was finishing my breakfast I couldn't help overhearing her mention "Santa Claus". Immediately a light went on inside me and I smiled to myself since now I knew who she was. Her name is "Elizabeth Mitchell" who co starred with Tim Allen as Mrs Claus in "The Santa Clause" movies produced by Walt Disney Studios. We actually own these movies and are pretty familiar with the characters. I hurried outside to tell Laurie but she had already figured it out for herself and was talking to the owner about it. He had recognized her as well. Although she was friendly toward us probably the best part of this story is that she didn't know that we knew her identity. After all why would anyone be vacationing in Port Orford unless they were wanting to keep a low profile?The bottom line is: Would we go back? We sure would and would highly recommend this place to anyone that needs some quiet time like us and Elizabeth Mitchell!
