Observation about Brookings:

One thing I am realizing about Brookings is that it is an unsweet-spot, an adolescence between town and city.

Unlike small towns, there isn't a town vibe of everyone-knows-everyone, talking for hours at the post office. People do know each other, but not like they do in Hamilton. Geographically,the city has also developed to the point that it doesn't have a center. Not like Hamilton, where you could always find people strolling down mainstreet. Or hanging out at the library. (Although, I might not have got that until I was in Hamilton longer).

But Brookings also isn't big like a city is big. Its not a Portland, Eugene, Salem or even Corvallis. Its not even The Dalles. There are a lot of different things to do and see here, (especially, I assume, once tourist season starts), but it isn't a big enough city to support its own sub-cultures and niches for everyone.

If that makes any sense...
Also, remember, I am writing this on some of the most depressing days of the year. And after going through a lot of stress.