Mick:
"I grew up fishing. Every summer since I was eight, my dad, brothers, and I went fishing in Doreys off the Oregon coast."
"I moved to Pelican in 1982 to work at Pelican Seafoods, then began commercial fishing again in 1984. Then in 1995, with a wife and a baby on the way, I decided that maybe it was time to live and work on the beach. So we bought the Pelican Bar and Grill. There’s been a lot of blood, sweat, and tears to turn it into the Wheelwatch Lodge, but it’s been worth it. It’s either a labor of love or insanity. Either way, no regrets. We’ve been able to live a lifestyle that most people only dream about."
Vicki:
"I’m originally from Montana and grew up at a Ranger Station on a lake. I lived in eastern Oregon for awhile, but decided that the rolling wheat fields weren’t for me. I came to Pelican in 1990 seeking adventure and with my mind made up that I could endure anything for seven months. I worked at Pelican Seafoods and enduring anything meant long, cold hours with fish blood and guts on my clothes, in my hair and splashed up on my face. My family was sure that I’d be back within two weeks, but after two weeks I decided that I would stay for 3-5 years. At the end of my fourth year Mick and I got married and I became a year-round resident until 2005."
"In 2005 we started splitting the year between Pelican and Oregon. We decided that our daughters both needed more opportunities and that our youngest, who is autistic, needed a more intensive and consistent education."
"It was a good move for us, but now Mick is in Pelican for 6 months of the year and the girls and I ( & 2 dogs & 2 cats—my traveling circus) only come up for the summer."
"Believe it or not, I really miss the winters. Winter in Pelican is so beautiful. However, I do appreciate receiving mail every day and being able to get fresh produce (hey, eat a salad in winter? It had been years!)."
"Well, I won’t be the one taking you out fishing, but you’ll definitely see me around—often walking the dogs or accompanying our daughter on her outdoor adventures. My roll varies, but I’ll make sure your room is clean and that you have everything you need. If you have any special dietary needs (or preferences), let me know when you schedule your trip and I’ll make sure we meet your needs. I look forward to visiting you and sharing our little slice of Shangri-la."