From Hollywood to Rural Oregon: A Family’s Search for a Simpler Life

Growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, can seem idyllic. But for one family, the allure of the entertainment industry eventually gave way to a longing for a quieter, more grounded existence. Their journey from the bustling city to the serene landscapes of rural Oregon highlights a growing desire for a simpler lifestyle, driven by factors like cost of living and family well-being.

A Childhood Immersed in Entertainment

The author’s connection to the entertainment world ran deep. Their father served as the chief audio engineer at NBC Burbank for 38 years, a role that brought them into contact with iconic figures like Dinah Shore, Bob Hope, and Johnny Carson. The family lived in Studio City, enjoyed early access to television technology – a monitor rigged by their father – and even experienced close encounters with celebrities. Despite this privileged upbringing, a yearning for a different kind of life began to emerge.

The Pull of Rural Life

The author’s fondest childhood memories weren’t of Hollywood parties, but of summer vacations spent on a farm in Nebraska. These experiences instilled a deep appreciation for animals, open spaces, and the rhythms of agricultural life. This “farm girl at heart” feeling persisted into adulthood, and a desire to raise a family in a similar environment grew stronger.

Leaving Los Angeles Behind

The decision to exit Los Angeles wasn’t sudden. The author and their husband, both teachers, initially settled in areas like Westwood, Anaheim, and Riverside. While these locations offered stability and opportunities, they couldn’t fully satisfy the couple’s longing for a more rural lifestyle. A turning point came when their two sons developed respiratory problems due to Los Angeles smog, solidifying their commitment to finding a healthier environment.

Finding a Home in Oregon

The family embarked on a deliberate search for a new home, sending out 100 applications to locations throughout the Northwest. The husband secured a teaching position at a community college in Salem, Oregon, even though it meant a pay cut. The author supplemented the family income by teaching evening college classes and later transitioned to daytime instruction once their children were in school.

Building a Life on the Land

In 1974, the family purchased a six-acre tree farm, later expanding to a ten-acre property. They embraced the challenges and rewards of rural living, learning to milk goats, cut trees, and raise chickens and ducks. The author found an outlet for their experiences by writing articles about their “newbie farming” adventures for a local newspaper. The proximity of the Oregon coast, just an hour away, provided additional opportunities for recreation and enjoyment.

Contentment and Lasting Memories

While their income was slightly lower in Oregon, the lower cost of living and improved quality of life more than compensated for the difference. Decades later, the family remains in Oregon, cherishing the peace and beauty of their surroundings. The author acknowledges a continued fondness for Los Angeles – the scent of orange blossoms, the excitement of movie premieres, and the drive along the Pacific Coast Highway – but recognizes that visiting is fundamentally different from living a life rooted in the tranquility of the Oregon countryside.