Gunther Family Journey

Cutting Down the Christmas Tree

2011-12-11T17:24:00.000-08:00

This is the first year we have a real tree. Lee insisted that we get a tree permit and cut it down ourselves. I wasn't sure this was a great idea, after living in Portland for 3 years I had my heart set on a douglas fir. I had passed the Christmas tree farms so many times, always eyeing the perfect rows of Douglas Fir's, laid out like tiny statues dotting the Oregon landscape.

My parents bought us a permit to Duchesne County, in Eastern Utah where I grew up.

After passing nothing but Cedar Tree's and White Pines, I started to realize that this road did not lead to the tree in my mind,

About every thousand tree's I would spot a Blue Spruce like a diamond in the rough, and then it would be gone.

After a whole day of looking we ended up with, one blue spruce, and a white pine.

My parents took the Blue Spruce, since it fit in their house a lot better, and Lee really wanted my Mom to have the tree.

We spent the following day helping my parents decorate their house for Christmas. Jack loved helping Grandma with her turquoise and silver tree.

After getting the Peterson house ready for the holiday, we loaded up our white pine and headed home.

The next day my sister Cherlyn and her boyfriend Janzten helped us decorate the tree. Lee and Jack found a creative way to hang the lights. Vaulted Ceilings do lend an advantage to stringing lights.

Unfortunately Jack has asked to climb up on top of the fridge and onto the wall everyday since decorating.

He had a great time with his Daddy though. Merry Christmas, what a wonderful time of the year.

Thanksgiving with The Peterson's 2011

2011-11-24T17:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving. After 3 years of being away from family on Thanksgiving, we celebrated with the Peterson's.

Grandma Wagstaff, Mom, and Cherlyn.

The whole Crew.

Playing Games after Dinner.

Thanksgiving,

Mogli

2011-11-23T19:31:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of our puppy Mogli a few weeks after we got him, around September. He was two months old when we got him, and he is about 5 months now. TO have or not TO have a dog. That is the question right?

I grew up with an outside dog. Which meant they were all outdoor dogs, they went with my Dad and brothers on the horses hunting, and other country things. They were usually labs or Golden Retrievers and belonged to my brothers. I loved them to a point, but because they were always outside, it meant they were somewhat starved for affection. The smelliness of living outside and the constant running away when they were unleashed was annoying. I didn't want that.

I wanted a dog for Jackson. I wanted a dog for myself. I wanted to have a family dog. I knew they could add so much love and companionship to a family. I also like the extra exercise walking a dog daily gives a family. Lee just happend to be back in Portland when I took the leap and got Mogli. He came around eventually. Jackson picked him out and named him after one of his favorite Disney Characters.

I can't say he has been a perfect dog, or the adjustment has been painless, but we have crossed the threshold and will be dog owners for life. He is a great dog, and luckily a smart one. There have been a few chewed toys, and some scolding, but as you may know, labs are very smart. He was potty trained in less than a week. He is allowed in the down stairs area of the house during the day when we are with him, and the rest of the time including at night, he sleeps outside.

This is for a couple of different reasons. The alternative to having him sleep outside would have been to crate train him as a puppy to sleep inside. This would have been fine, except we spend a lot of time at both of our extended families homes, who have an absolute no dog in the house EVER policy. So I knew that Mogli would be sleeping outside when we visited. Mogli needed to sleep outside during the cold months in order to gain the extra layer of fat he would need if we were somewhere he couldn't come sleep in the house. So far the arrangement has worked out great. Lee made him a cute doghouse in our backyard, which is huge and fenced in-just perfect for a dog. In the morning I will let him come downstairs with Jack and play for a while, then we usually go for a walk to the park. I love having a dog, I love watching my son with a dog. I love the lessons of pet ownership that having a dog provides to my son. Of course the clean freak in me is vacuuming and shampooing downstairs a lot more, but the love he brings is worth it. And yes, we bath him regularly and shampoo him, so luckily he doesn't smell like a dog. So that's that. he is an outside dog, with visits to his designated areas, and it is working out great.

We have a black lab, named Mogli, and he is here to stay.

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

This post is a little late, but we had a great Halloween 2011. We attended our Ward Halloween Party on Thursday, with two Roman's and a Race-car Driver.

We met up with our new neighbor Melisa/Ariel the Mermaid, and got to see Jackson's good friend "the other Jackson" :) Jackson Lund. This is what it is like trying to take a picture of my wiggly Jackson.

Lee and I also attended a Halloween Party in Brigham City, and after met up with some great friends to go the Haunted Forrest at Sherwood Hills after. We stood in line for a long time- but the hot chocolate made up for it.

Here is the Group. Alaina and her husband, Lee and I, Pete & Kathy, Kaylee, Josh the monster, & Tim and Anna and their kids Avery and Alex. It was a fun night, though the haunted Forrest was a bit much for the kiddos. We thought it would be a little less scary. Wrong- Tim and Lee ended up carrying two crying kids the whole way through. I think they are still having nightmares. Poor kiddos. Luckily knowing Jacks tolerance for scary stuff we left him with Grandma Donna for a fun movie night.

Happy Halloween.................

Welcome Home Dell..i love u.

2011-10-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my new Dell. Mine is midnight blue. It is perfect. I am in love with my computer. My job requires me to spend A LOT of time crunching data, submitting reports, behavioral plans, functional analysis, projected rationale budgets, ect. Sometimes having the ability to do part of your job from home, is harder than it seems. I am on strict deadlines, and the work must get done.

Lets just face it my old "Acer" just wasn't cut out for those kind of deadlines. It was time for an upgrade. My husband surprised me with this beauty, and yes it has made my life SO much easier. Now if only it could make dinner, I would be set right ;)

CornBellys Fall 2011

2011-10-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

One Saturday in October Mom ran a half marathon, and Grandma came to support. This isn't a post about that though- this is about the fun we had after those 13.2 miles. Grandma treated us to a trip to Corn Belly's and we had a great day.

Jackson is a lucky little boy. He has some amazing grandparents. I am always amazed at how great my Mom is with him. She always gets down on his level to play, and Jackson loves how she will play imagination with him. She always seems to have boundless energy when it comes to her grand-kids. I love you Mom. You are such a great grandma.

Here are some shots of the day, Boo Bunny on the haystack, racing the go-karts

We saw a puppet show, ate camel corn, sat in an old fashioned fire engine.

Jackson's favorite part was the corn bin. Jackson loved the feel if the corn on his feet.

My little man is growing up so quick, I still think of him as my baby boy, but the reality is he is a big boy. I might need to stop calling him my Boo-Bunny soon, but then again maybe not.

Learning Dynamics Preschool

2011-10-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

When we moved to American Fork I knew one of my first priorities was to find Jackson a highly structured academic Preschool. This was important to me. Jackson thrives off of schedules and lists. He loves knowing exactly what comes next. Through my education and work experience I have learned that this is the case for most children to some extent. While of course each child learns differently, some are more visual learners, while others learn better by direct participation-it is true that children need boundaries to feel safe, secure and to learn.

Jackson is very black and white. He wants to know why he is there, what they are doing at that moment, and what they will be doing next. I researched a LOT of preschools. I knew that I would be working part time, some of those hours I am lucky enough to work from home, but I need to be at the office for meetings at least two days a week. I found learning Dynamics in Lehi, and I immediately knew it was a good fit. I wanted to find a preschool that focused on phonics. I am a strong believer that children can be reading before Kindergarten, and this is something that I want for Jackson.

Learning Dynamics provides a reading program that will support that goal. Their goal is to help children develop language and comprehension skills through activities that teach sequencing, rhyming, classification, same/different, and opposites. They teach reading through Frontline Phonics, a reading program that was developed at Learning Dynamics and recognized as one of the nation’s leading beginning reading programs. This is the main reason I chose Learning Dynamics.

The year has been going great so far. While Jackson is at school I squeeze in a few meetings and paperwork for my job. Its a great fit. Jackson loves his teacher Mrs. Fossenbeck. I love her too, because she is straight forward and even tempered with the kids, she is kind, but in complete control of the class.

Jackson feels safe and secure at his preschool because he knows what to expect next. He knows that after calender, is circle time, and then learning time.

I love watching him learn new things. Jackson knew all of his letters and their sounds at 18 months, but what I didn't realize is that he has a harder time recognizing the lower case letters when they are not pared with the uppercase. I am glad that his teacher brought this to my attention, we have been practicing recognizing just the lowercase letters and he has them all down now.

After a few weeks at learning dynamics he can write the first two letters of his name, which is huge for him. I have worked with him since he was a baby on letter recognition and theirs sounds, but we haven't focused on writing. I am grateful to have good teachers to help me, help my son have academic success.

The most we can hope for our children is that they are life long learners, this is my goal for Jackson. I want him to not only learn, but to "love to learn" and never stop learning no matter what his age.

Your 30? Why, YES I am.

2011-09-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

I turned 30. There was cake, candles, and a boat (w. wake-board of course) in celebration of 3 decades on planet earth.

My baby boy, who is not a baby anymore.

The Peterson/Gunther/Jarvis Campsite at Startvation State Park. (my high school cliff jumping escape)

Yes, as I mentioned. HE CAN JUMP. and he never wakeboards and ~~its irratating he can do it better than me...........notice how there are no pictures of my jumps. After comparing the two, i felt compelled to leave mine out.~~

My brother Maverick, and my adorable niece miss Blakely.

Doing what I love, almost more than anything......

"Cousins"

The family. Perfect weekend. Sunshine. Water. Wakeboard. Family.

Thanks Parents for making it happen.

Here is to the next 30 years. My dreams are many, my determination is set. The future is limitless.

A Derby, 2 Rodeo's and A Triathalon later............

2011-08-13T06:41:00.000-07:00

Everyone from a small town knows that the County Fair is basically the biggest thing all year.

In the small town I come from , the Duchesne County Fair is quite the get together. Carnival, The Demolition Derby which is so packed that if you come on time there will be standing room only, in a huge grandstand. There are two rodeos, a kids buckaroo, pagents, and numerous other "fair" events. We were so excited to live close to home and get in on the action. Lee competed in the Starvation Triathlon, and I did a 5k on Saturday (at an 8:03 pace which I was happy about :) Lee did awesome too, and it was so much fun to be a part of it all.

I woke up at 5:30 to run my 7:00 am race, and then headed to the lake to watch Lee finish the rest of his Tri.

Later that night before the rodeo, Jack went on the rides with his cousins, and loved the orange Train.

This picture is priceless, these two little boys love my Dad so much. He is an amazing Grandpa. All of Jackson's grandparents give him so much love from both sides, he is a lucky little man.

Every little boy should get to ride a horse with their Grandpa. Since moving back to Utah Jackson gets to have a lot of sleep over dates with my parents. They might be two hours away, but compared to Idaho and Oregon, we feel like they are next door.

Miss Blakely and Cousin Jackson.

Jumping on the tramp is a must a Grammy's house. This is just after my 5k run, playing with the babies. Jackson has tried to convince Grammey to let him take her tramp home. lol.

Grandparents were an essential part of my childhood, they taught me many things about myself and shaped the way in which I view the world.

It is one of the greatest gifts/relationships that I can offer to my son. This was a huge factor in our decision where to move after our schooling. It was the right decision for us.

Reunion & a 3rd Birthday

2011-07-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

During the first weekend of August we attended the Wagstaff/Price Reunion for my Mom's side of the family. Saturday July 30th was also Jack's 3rd Birthday. He celebrated Thomas The Train Style.

And got spoiled by his parents, and family. Thomas the Train Tracks galore.

Dad and the lovebirds at the annual auction.

This was one of the biggest attractions at the reunion, uncle Maverick's jeep. Jeepin is Jack's new thing.

We were up North Fork at our families private land, it was so beautiful and refreshing to wake up to this !

This is Jack with his winning blanket, Grammy bought him the lucky ticket.

Jeepin........................

This is my Grandma Wagstaff, who is the unofficial head of the reunion. We love this special lady.

Sweet niece Blakely with her Daddy, I heart being an aunt.

You can't camp without spending a substantial amount of time around a smoky campfire with those u love.

I think I see a resemblance?

Who doesn't love a wedding?

2011-07-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

Weddings are G r e a t!! Especially when a: your husband is a best man, b: the wedding is at a an awesome resort/hotel/with golf course/and spa c: Your parents take your son for the whole weekend, and D: The wedding is basically a high school reunion with all of your husbands closest friends, (who by association-happen to be some of your favorite people too!)

The beautiful bride Amy, and Groom Eli Rountree

One of my favorite resorts in logan canyon, just 30 minutes from my Alma Mater

The wedding was so much fun from start to finish. This is a picture is of Cathy and I at the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. We were able to stay at the resort for two nights with friends staying there too, it was so much fun! I literally felt so carefree, like lee and I were 21 again. :)

lee was able to golf with his friends for 18 rounds, something he rarely got to do while we were in OR, and might I add, he won. Yip my guy, who never golfs, who doesn't own his own clubs beat out a dozen or so other guys who play every other weekend and take it very serious, while lee golfs every couple of years, with his carefree attitude and flip flops. Yes, i'm proud.

This was such a pretty venue for a wedding,

And this guy knows how to wear a tux, still is the best looking husband in the room. biased. i know.

Good times.

My date for the evening. :) I had the best day before the wedding, I read to my hearts content, worked out hard, got ready without feeling any rush since lee was golfing and and I was childless, read some more, took a walk in nature, ate pita chips and hummus, napped, and savored every minute of my downtime. PERFECT DAY, i say yes.

Tim, Chris, and lee, best friends since Pee-wee football, and beyond

I love this picture. All of the guys in this picture (minus 2) have been best friends since Elementary!!

We still all get together once a year for the annual Friend Christmas party which includes all of these Brigham City alumni and their wives (held at Tim and Anna's house in Hyrum Utah.) It is rare to keep in touch with friends since you were 7 or 8, especially when you live in different states, and have families of your own. They were lee's second family growing up, and have always been there for each other, it is a great bond that they share.

A new Zipcode

2011-07-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

84003, is the number at the end of our address these days, we are here in Beautiful American Fork , UT and we lOVE IT! let us show u around,

This park is visible from our house, about 5 houses down the street from us.

This is our church, which is also on our block, across from the park about 5 houses down. Yes, we are in Utah, the land of steeples and parks.

Here are some shots of our house. They aren't the greatest, but you can see the front of it and our side yard.

This is a great house, a huge cement area for RV parking is Jack's new bike riding area. We have a big back yard, and love it!!

I will post pics of the backyard soon.

It needs some tlc, but its huge! We have a lot of different trees, and a big garden area which we will put to use next year.

The biggest change for me (visually at least) is the mountains!! They are massive, and right out our front door.

The other change which I love, is blue skies every day. In Portland there are so many cloudy gray days, I love seeing the sun everyday and blue skies.

Mountain Range View.

We can get to the temple in under 5 minutes.

Mt. Timpanogos.

This is the mouth of AF canyon, I run a lot here, it is very peaceful and serene. We are so blessed to be back home in mountains.

Suavie Island 1/2 Marathon!

2011-07-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

On the 4th of July..................

I ran the Suavie Island half marathon with my great friend Tahsha. We had been training together for the past couple of months and both felt ready to reach our goal times. I had such a great time training with this girl, I must say running friends are really the best friends. When else can you talk about bm's, chaffing, husbands, cramps, and any thing else that pops in your head with out feeling the least bit awkward, on a run I tell you!

There is something bonding about waking up at 5:00 AM to run 10+ miles. :)

The night before the race I changed my fueling plans and had two GU's for breakfast, with a 1/2 cup of water. Big mistake. I set my race goal for under 2:00 which felt very achievable considering I had ran a 11 mile training run at under 9 minute miles. The first 5 miles I was set on course running at a 9 mile pace, then mile six hit and and got really sick, puking in a corn field sick, and it wasn't pretty. I ended up finishing the race ten minutes over my goal time, putting my average around 9:30-9:45 minute miles. To say l was disappointed would be an understatement, but considering how my stomach felt for half of the race, I was just glad to finish. My mom, lee, jack, Jordan, Nicole and baby camo all met us at the finish line. Tahsha got her time of 1:43, and am super proud of her. I am grateful to my family for coming out and supporting me, and also to Nicole who really went out of her way to coach and encourage Tahsha and I. I Ioved every minute of training with Tahsha, and I can't wait to do another run with my OR running friends! I am so lucky to have these incredible people in my life.

Grammy's 3 week visit

2011-06-30T06:47:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned I have great parents? Well I do. As a teen I didn't always appreciate or see everything that they did for me, but hindsight is 20/20 they say, and I feel like I am beginning to grasp what a lucky girl I am-to have parents that will do anything they can to help my little family, plus more.

These three had way too much fun on the Portland water front, while I was working, I worked right up until we moved. It was a hard thing to leave my job, I had the opportunity to serve many great people. It is the second great job I have left for my husbands employment and schooling, its a good thing he is worth it :)

We can't get enough of the Oregon Coast, one of the best parts about choosing Oregon

My Mom came and stayed with us for our last 3 weeks in Portland. We said goodbye to our home of 3 years in style by hitting up some of our favorite locations

pines to the coast, aww...perfect

The beautiful Tillamook, with breathtaking beaches, and tasty ice cream...YUM!

The Children's museum has been a Gunther Family favorite

, Jack especially loved the clay roomWe had a a busy last three weeks, packing up the house, cleaning, and visiting all of the best Portland spots one last time

Goodbye Portland, we are more than happy to be moving on, but very grateful for the growth we have experienced here.

Girls Night!!!!!

2011-06-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

When 6 girls get together kid free and no husbands in sight, it is going to be a great night.

We booked a room at the double tree hotel, the weekend before I moved to Portland to enjoy each others company, and give me one last night in the city with my favorite Portland girls.

This is a picture of Nicole telling the helpful security guards that we

had lost our car, Tahsha and I were laughing so hard and taking it in stride (............i mean we knew it was in a smart park right? just not which one.........) Nicole on the other hand knew this was no laughing matter :)

This is Nicole frustrated at the lack of car available, as well as Tahsha's and I's attitude of indifference towards the situation! love it!

It was a fun night with H&M shopping, a lost and found car, happy hour at Henry's

And the best group of girls and friends I could ask for, love u guys!

I can't say that alot of sleep was involved in our night, considering we managed to get room #666 which encouraged a few attempts at scary stories, which were quickly put to a stop by others. :) Though lots of chatting was involved, life stories shared, and enough laughter to help everyone remember a good time.

Can a girl ever have too many girls nights out? No, of course not.

Doctor of Chiropractic Degree!!!

2011-06-24T14:47:00.000-07:00

When I met Lee he had no intention of going back to school, he had been in the Air-force, studied some at UCLA and here and there-he thought he was done with school. He was 25 I was 21 just finishing my undergrad at Utah State. I didn't push this issue at first, because lets be honest love is blind, and at that point I didn't care if he was unemployed, he was mine and that was all that mattered.

Soon though reality set in, we got engaged then married, I took a job in Idaho right away and lee came with me to Idaho Falls. With his business experience he landed a job in radio marketing, a decent job, but I could tell he wasn't being challenged and he didn't love what he did. After a year in Idaho Falls my job transferred me to Pocatello, Lee had also been taking some classes at the ISU extension in IF, and transferred as a full time student to the Idaho State Campus in Pocatello.

Having a background in Massage Therapy Lee had always wanted to take it a step farther and become a Chiropracter, but the opportunity had never presented itself.

After a great deal of thought and prayer we decided that this would be his career path. It all made sense, he loved working as a massage therapist but never pursued it fully since he felt like there was so much more to offer people. Lee is also very people oriented, he truly loves to help and serve people, and wanted to be in profession where he could financially provide for his family and truly help people. We both strongly believe in the benefits of Chiropractic, and the life changes it can provide.

After both Lee and I completed our schooling at ISU, we left my job in Idaho, and took our two month old and moved to Portland. Three years later we are back home in Utah with an amazing job opportunity awaiting us. I am so proud of this accomplishment he has achieved, he has truly grown so much through this process, and I know that he will be an amazing Chiropractor who will bless the lives of many with his abilities.

A big thanks to my parents, who have supported us ten fold through this process, We love and appreciate all you have done and continue to do for us.

My sister Cherlyn who told me she wasn't coming to the Graduation and then surprised me at the airport! love u sis!

We were also very fortunate to have lee's Dad and two brothers make the trip for his graduation. It really meant a lot to have you there, so thank you again.

Lee and his brother Phil.
This is lee and James Parker, our neighbor and good friend. Since lee took the spilt and most of our close friends didn't, we really missed seeing them at Graduation.
Have you met a more handsome Doctor? Way to go Doctor Gunther, you made it.

Goodbye Jackson

2011-06-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

In reflecting back on my time here in Portland I have come to realize that I have met some amazing women. As a working Mom (and a minor control freak :) I take very seriously what Jackson is doing when he is away from me.

Of course I enjoy working (using my education to benefit my family and working in a profession that is both personally and financially rewarding) BUT, with all that being said it is still hard to leave my little man.

I started working just after Jack's first birthday.

Teacher Tami was one of the women who I trusted with my sons care. She went above and beyond my expectations with him, having a little structured preschool for Jack and Linken, learning, doing crafts, exploring, and always making sure he had healthy snacks.

Tami is an amazing girl, and I wish I had more time in Portland to get to know her better. Here are some pictures from the going away party Tami through for Jack with his best pals :)

This in another special girl in our lives. Abbey is also a great friend and Jack's sitter. She has done so much for our family. Jackson loves Travis and Abby, we are really going to miss them.

We had cupcakes, & fruit salsa with pita chips.

Jack loved having his name on the board and a picture of himself blown up.
We have been blessed to have made a great network of friends while Lee has completed his schooling. They have been like a second family to us, and helped to make our 3 years in Portland fly by a little too fast.
Linken, Travis, Cohen, Jack. (missing Kaleb, who didn't want to be in a picture)

The Rose Festival *

2011-06-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

This year we spent some time downtown for the Portland Rose Festival

All the bridges were lit up,

And the fleets arrived for fleet week

This is our city!

view from the parking garage

Jack was not a big fan of the firework's big bang at the end, so we are going to need to work on that, since skipping fireworks is not an option for the Gunther's.

We love fireworks and all of the crazy festivities that come along with them. They were so beautiful, this is something I am going to miss about Portland-watching the fireworks over the waterways.

A Portland Summer

2011-06-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

A PORTLAND SUMMER.......................................

Means we have bbq's with friends

Lots of outside time,

Zoo Trips,

With as much SUNSHINE and WATER as we can possibly fit into our busy days,

Because LETS FACE IT, we all know that summertime is really the best time.......

of the year

Around this house

2011-06-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

Around this house we have a lot of backyard picnics, just to be in the glorious sunshine,

we practice the pledge of alegance to ourselves in the mirror,

We play pretend with the neighbor girls over the fence,
Tinker Toys are a favorite pastime,

especially when you roll them down the hall.

Around this house, we like to scramble our own eggs

And use the spatula ourselves, to turn them

We paint in the afternoons,

and eat our popsical while we shoot hoops,

I believe we might miss hanging around this old house next month, when we are living here

maybe, just a little.

Peterson

2011-05-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

Family

by James Baldwin

Know from whence

you came

because if you know

from whence you came

There is no limit

to where you can go.

Peterson:

Peterson is a patronymic surname meaning "son of Peter."
The given name Peter is derived from the Greek petros meaning "stone."

Family. Enough said.

Pictures by Sharli Fitzgerald

http://www.sharssnapshots.com/

Seattle Easter

2011-05-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

Living in the NW Jack really misses his grandparents and cousins around Holiday time, this year we decided to join the Thompson's in Seattle for a family Easter Weekend. Chalene is one of my best friends, we have been through a lot together, and both share a mutual love of EAster. It takes us back to when we were little girls and our Dad's were hiding quarters (in brightly colored Easter-Eggs) around our Grandparents farm. We were always so intent to find our baskets first, and show the other one what we had found. This year Chalene went all out to give our boys the best EAster ever! Thanks cousin, love ya. :) So excited! What eggs have candy in them???
Learning the trade of egg dying...
GO, GO, GO, jack, on the hunt!
The boy waiting to go in after Church. We hid their baskets with a jelly bean trail to each of them. GReat idea chacha

blue.

happiness.

COASTAL LIVING spring break '11'

2011-05-06T22:20:00.000-07:00

Spring Break. Just saying the words bring back happy memories. When I was in college working on my undergrad at USU, Spring Break meant warm weather, and sunshine. Good times with my girls, away from school. Mexico, Vegas, Southern Utah, we were off.

I'm out of college now. Living in the rainy NW as a busy working Mom, putting my guy through Chiro school. And I still get giddy when I hear the words Spring Break!! :) :)

This year I planned a trip to the Oregon Coast with one of my old Logan roomies, cousin, and best friend, miss Chalene. My parents decided to come join in, and we all had a super time on the rainy coast. Rain or no rain, we had a great house, a hotub, and a beachfront view, and relaxing family time to ring in one of my favorite holidays.

Loved this house! It was perfect for the 7 of us!

Cousins. Never to old to do a cartwheel :)
I love how our boys are such good buddies....
The Newport Acquarium, big fan of looking down at the sharks.

The crew
My amazing little guy, he is such a smart sweet little man.
chalene
His pants were so wet, I took them off and put his boots back on, he loved it. :)
Boys. will. be. boys.
bye mom...
Myles with Mommy Rain Boots=happy feet.
We love Lincoln City.

NW Hikes

2011-05-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

I am a Utah girl at heart, but I must say Oregon waterfalls and hiking are hard to beat. We love getting outside and checking out some beautiful scenery, and getting our investment out of our Kelty (which we love). During the warm months we try to go hiking at least once a week. Here are some shots of some recent hikes.

This is our favorite hike Horsetail Falls.

My handsome husband.

Lee and I have hiked all over the Gorge, hiking the horsetail numerous times, taking our good friends the Sajovics a few weeks ago, and my parents who were just here at the end of March.

This is the view from under the waterfall, its a Last of the Mohicans Cave :)

Putting Jack in his throne. I bought this awesome Kelty when Jack was just six months old. It is great fo hiking and can carry a ton of camping gear if needed.

This was a Sunday afternoon walk, just up from the main waterfall Multanomah

Jackson's favorite this is to go under the waterfalls and play, love this boy!

Famous Fall of the Gorge.

This is a hike in Camas WA. It is around Lacamas lake and is more of a walk than a hike. Great for kids and super beautiful. I have been wanting to take Jack and Lee here for a while since I drive by on my way to work at a Camas school, a few times a week.

Gunther Family Picture

Jack at Lacams Lake

This is about 20 minutes form NE Portland, and worth the drive. I have really enjoyed working in WA. I love the little cities just across the river. Its amazing the difference in the two states. If we were going to stay here in the NW (which would never be an option), I think that Camas WA is such an adorable mini city, with great schools, low crime, and beautiful scenery.

My Bucket List

2011-04-08T15:03:00.001-07:00

As I have noted in previous posts I like Lists. To do lists, goals lists, exercise lists, chore lists, grocery lists, monthly-weekly-daily lists, at any given time you will find at least two in my purse.

With that being said I have been throwing around the idea of an actual Bucket List for a little while now. My friend and fellow blogger Penny did one last year, and left me remembering that I needed to combine my goal lists into one.

Its not that I felt compelled to create a list, but more so to put my thoughts and goals in order and in writing to sort of set them in stone. I've always followed a the notion that a goal is just a dream, until written down, acknowledged, and then a pathway created-as to how one will achieve that dream (goal).

There are a lot of things I want to do and accomplish in life, some I know will take years, others I hope to complete much sooner.

Here's the list, in no particular order-since a goal is a goal no matter how big or how small. Some are big dreams, others for fun, some serious, some not so serious.....enjoy. :)

1.Learn to sew
2. Take an Art course from a community college, and then paint a portrait of my children

3. Travel to Italy with my husband

4. Plant a huge garden, and 'CAN' everything in it.
5. Buy a home
6. Qualify for the Boston Marathon
7. Go on a hot air balloon ride
8. Go to a professional football & baseball game with Lee in season
9. Complete a 1/2 IronMan

10. Pay my respects to Arlington

11. Drive a Sailboat

12. Watch the Launch of a Space Shuttle
13. Go to the Count down of New Years Eve in New York
14. Make a Family Tree Quilt

15. Go on a horse back trip to the Uintahs with my Dad
16. Become a Certified Scuba Diver with Lee

17. Ride in a Helicopter
18. See the pyramids of Egypt

19. Visit Stonehenge
20. Zip Line through a Jungle
21. Own a Canoe or Kayak.
22. Own a timeshare on Lake Powell, and visit once a year
23. Serve a mission with my husband
24. Write my biography
25. Write a biography for my brother

26. Take a pottery class
27. Stand on top of a dormant* Volcano
28. Print off my blog into a book

29. Teach my mom to swim
30. Visit the Grand Canyon
31. Learn to show more Gratitude
32. Volunteer at a Rest home
33. Drive A Sand Dune Buggy
34. Get a Street bike and start riding more and driving less
35. Improve my tennis skills
36. Take piano lesson
37. Run the original marathon in Greece

38. Run the Nike Women's Marathon

39. Sit in for a session of Congress

40. See Cirque Du Soleil in Vegas

41. See the Declaration of Independence

42. Go to the top of the Space Needle in Seattle

43. Go to Law School

44. Have my own library with Hardbacks of all the classics

45. Visit a vinyard, and stomp grapes barefoot

46. Clear the entire wake on a wake-board

47. Get a snowboarding pass to Sundance

48. Witness all of my children get advanced educational degrees

49. Record a CD of My Gram playing the Organ and my Dad singing

50. Interview both of my Grandmas

51. Keep updated babybooks and journals for my children until they can write their own

52. Create special theme bins for each month of the year

53. Move home to Utah

54. Go to Hawaii

55. Visit a friend in a foreign country

56. Research my Family tree, complete geneology

57. Visit the Statue of Liberty

58. Lay on a Sunny Beach every day for two weeks

59. Hike to the Y in Provo

60. Enjoy the Journey

60 it is for now, but at 29 there are at least 40 more to be added-What about you? What is your Bucket List?

Happy Toes

2011-03-19T22:41:00.000-07:00

Somebody had a birthday, so we went out for pedicures...(as if we girls ever really need a good reason)

The best part for me at least was the massage chairs.........oh yeah.

Pretty ladies, pretty toes....

After our Pedicure's we went to Tami's house for a little dessert party.

Happy Birthday to one of my favorite Portland People.......Miss Sabrina Mangum! XO

Going to the Dogs

2011-03-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Growing up at my house, we always had a dog. They were an outside dog, and usually belonged to my brothers, but I claimed them as my own. One of my fondest memories is of our dog Little Ann. She was my brother Cole's dog, and my favorite. When she was just a young pup herself (about a year and a half old) she had puppies. I don't remember the exact number, but

I know it was around 9 or 10. We gave them all away, but that summer was magical. I loved watching her take of her puppies, playing with all of them, and wrapping them in a blanket like they were my babies. My Mom never let us bring them in the house, and I hated to leave them at night. I think I was in 5th grade that year. The picture below wasn't my dog, but it is similar. I love Golden. Retrievers, they are such loyal dogs.

Needless to say I think every boy needs a dog. I really wish we could have a dog for Jackson here in Oregon, we have such a big backyard, it would be perfect. But, now isn't the right time for that. We are just too busy, and don't have the time to care for it.

During the month of Febuaruy we had quite a few dog adventures around our house, and my little man was in heaven.

It was a typical day at the Gunther House, I had just got home from work and Lee was off early from school. It was a warm day and I had left the front door open to get some sunshine in. Jack was playing by the door when suddenly there were 3 dogs in our yard. They obviously new each other, two smaller grown dogs and a puppy. Jack and Lee immediately ran outside and started playing with them. It was so cute to watch Jackson play with the dogs. He couldn't stop smiling, and was chasing them everywhere.

The three dogs kept running in the road, so we decided to put them in the backyard while Lee walked around searching for an owner. Just when Jack and I thought we had it under control, one of the dogs slipped through a slab in our fence and jumped into another neighbors yard. Before we knew it, another of the dogs jumped after his friend.

Jack yelled "Come back Bodger, Come back boy!"

It was the cutest thing ever. He sounded just like the boy from... A Long Journey Home, the original Homeward Bound movie.

This was the best shot I got of all three of them, they were all so crazy. Eventually Lee went on his bike found the two escaped dogs, and their owner-just up the street. It was fun while it lasted.

We didn't need to wait to long to have a dog around again. The next weekend our good friends and neighbors the Parker's went out of town and asked us to Dog sit. We said yes, and loved having Tarbee around. For now we will just dream of the day when we have our own dog. Preferably a lab, or Golden Retriever, they really make the best dogs.

January Grandparents.......

2011-03-19T18:50:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to have my Mom come home with us for a week after the Christmas Break. She was able to watch Jack while I worked and give him a break from going to the babysitters. We have a super hectic schedule around here with Lee in school or clinic from almost 7 to 7 everyday, and my working 20-25 hours while trying to run a home, take care of Jack, and stay on track with my running goals we are always busy. There are numerous days when Lee walks in the door and I walk out, so it was nice to have my Mom here, helping with cooking, cleaning, and watching the kiddo. My Dad flew up on the weekend, and we were able to visit the Children's Museum and hit a few Portland sights.

The Children's Museum was presenting their Tinker Toy Exhibit. Jack fell in love with the classic toy. When Lee got home he ordered Jack his own wooden Tinker Toy set from Amazon. I love that it is a wooden toy, and requires imagination from the child. Jack builds bridges, ladders, towers, robots, and so many other things he comes up with.

Jack and Papa playing with the huge Tinker Toy Man.

Brushing the Alligators teeth. The Children's Center has so much for kids to do, and is very educational.

This is Jackson riding at the airport. He was on his way to the ticket line and happy at this point, since he thought he got to go home with Papa and Grammy. Poor little guy was heart broken to see them go.

We had some time to kill so we ate at a restaurant in the Airport. With all of the flights we have taken, and all of time we have picked up family from the airport, we have become VERY acquainted with the place. We have a few favorite stops. Notice Jack eating his ice-cream, that Papa let him have. Gotta love that left over ketchup on his lips, haha.... The boy was in heaven.

Thanks Parents, we love having you. Hurry back.

2011.....a new year

2011-03-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

So Yes I understand its March 11th, and yes I am just getting around to my New Years post.....but hey who's keeping track right? :)

After a great Christmas at my parents we headed West. Along the way we stopped at the Peterson Christmas party and spent time with family. It was so nice to spend time with my Gram, and extended family. I really do have the best family. Above are some of the Peterson girls, Me, Cherlyn, Chalene, and Cassidy.

Here is my QT pie with Cousin Myles. I just love watching these two together. Myles's Mommy and I were childhood best of friends and cousins, and I am so glad our boys can spend time together. They were loving Great Grandma's piano.

The Peterson Crew, minus a few....

Here is my cute hubby who is in his last year of pursuing a Doctorate in Chiropractic, addressing the family's Chiro needs. Of course his sidekick in Training Mr. Jackson Lee Gunther, was at his side. We are raising a Hyper sensitive Chiro son...:)

Okay I had to include this. We had the opportunity to stay at the Amazing Thompson Cabin in Sundance Utah. Thanks to my cousin Chalene and her husband. We were leaving for Provo the next morning so that Lee could work with Dr. Hanson (The doctor we are going into business with). This cabin just happened to be between there and our family Christmas party, so we took advantage of it. It is definitely the nicest place I have ever stayed...and probably the most expensive (Robert Redford has a cabin just up the rode, and this one is nicer). U get the picture... So we did our best not to touch anything and leave it exactly as we found it.

The next morning we were off to Provo to Let Lee do his thing, My Mom was coming home with us for a week or so, so her and I hung out in Provo (my future home) and did a little shopping while Lee worked with Dr. H.
After leaving Provo we headed West again. Thanks to a white out blizzard, and Jack losing his lunch in the car and on me, (YUCK)---we only made it to Brigham City and stayed at Lee's Dad's house. Let me just say I never been so greatful to get out of a car. The next morning we stopped by Lee's Grandma W. house for lunch and a quick visit. Jack had a blast playing with Lee's aunt Cami. He is still singing the "Horseie, Horseie, on your way" song she taught him. :)

We stayed the night in Boise again and woke up on New Year's Eve determined to make good time and get home to celebrate the new year...umm WRONG...that was all until a train w. toxic chemicals derailed on our Freeway. 6 hours off of schedule, we made it home around 11:15 and finished unpacking the car at just about midnight. Lee and I just laughed and said... Happy New Year! Good night.

It might not have been the most exciting New Year's Eve I have ever experienced,,,,,,but it will always be memorable.

HAPPY 2011 EVERYONE....only 2 1/2 months late. :)

Make it a great year!

The Polar Express 2010!

2011-03-01T22:39:00.003-08:00

We had our tickets, we were ready for some Hot Chocolate...and we wanted it HOT HOT HOT..
We boarded the train with cousins............took our seats......and we were off to the North Pole.

This was a special trip for Jackson with cousins, aunts, uncles, Grandmas, Grandpas, and even a great Grandma along for the ride.

We sang Christmas Carols all the way to the North Pole. Drank Hot Chocolate, and ate our cookies too.

After a great deal of excitement and anticipation we arrived at the North Pole. Jackson sat on santa's knee like a big boy and told him that he wanted a Blue Scooter.

And we even recognized one of his elf's! Our cousin McKenzie was Santa's lil' helper on the Polar Express. :)

The Heber Creeper Railway took us safely to the North Pole and back. Thanks Mom and Dad for getting the tickets and making the magic happen.

All aboard.................................................

Merry Christmas 2010

2011-03-01T22:39:00.001-08:00

This is what Christmas looks like at the Peterson house....

We always cut our own tree of course.....the taller the better.

On Christmas Eve we light a candle for my little brother Cole. We visit his headstone and remember all the wonderful memories we have of him.

We make yummy cookies for Santa, and try a few ourselves.....

The two stars of the entire Christmas show, the grand-babies..

Miss Blakely Nicole, and Jackson Lee.

Santa Clause found us this year. Jack got his blue scooter along with way too many other toys....

& Of course Papa got him a gun........

Some of us got Penguin PJ's from Gram...........while others wore gingerbread men....

We were blessed to spend another year in the company of those we love, and remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Merry Christmas 2010

Northern Utah pre-Christmas visit......

2011-03-01T22:38:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Blogs are a little late this year, but better late than never. We stayed bus visiting Santa at the Courthouse Villages b a few days before Christmas in Lee's home tome of BC..............

Here's my little cutie playing with cousins. His sweet cousin Callie is just 11 days younger than him. Jackson got to have a sleepover with Cousin Mick, or Mickers as we like to call him. He had so much fun with his older cousin, Here they are eating the big breakfast which Lee is so famous for cooking up....

Grandma Donna has a magical Christmas house. Lots of Christmas ornaments, snow-globes, dancing reindeer, ect. Basically a little winter wonderland for the kids. Jack spent a vast majority of his time in the train room. He was gearing up for our big Polar Express ride a few days down the rode.........(future post to come). This was our last trip from Oregon to Utah for Christmas, next year we will be living there!

BC Friends

2011-02-04T15:47:00.001-08:00

We arrived at The Gorman's house on December 18th after our nice stay in Boise. They are some of are very best friends, and even though we are not related we consider them family. When I met Lee he was actually living with them. We were all excited to see each other and the Jack jumped right in with Tori and Kenzie playing and having a good time. Oh and the dog on the right is
Pete's dog Akeela, she is such a sweetie-a pure bred Mastive.

After hanging out for a while, we got the kids ready for bed- giving Tori the instructions for babysitting and took off with Pete and Kathy for Lee's annual Friend Christmas Party. I have been with Lee for 8 years, and the annual friend party has been going on longer than that. Lee grew up in Brigham City, Utah and maintains close friendships with about 15-20 guys from high school. I have became good friends with a lot of their wives and girlfriends and love spending time with them. The Christmas party was a ton of fun, with the annual white elephant gift exchange, and some good Texas Holdem. Sadly though, my old camera was dead, so possibly in the future I will post some of my friends pictures from the big night. Here is the one picture I got before my camera died of Chris holding his Happy Birthday sign from Miss. Anna. Jack did a great job staying at the Gorman's and Lee and I had such a fun night, getting some adult time and catching up with old friends. I love hanging out with guys who have known my husband since 1st grade! :) I always hear the best stories about Lee from "back in the day!"

Making our Way Home...

2011-02-01T20:02:00.001-08:00

Since Jack is now 2 and requires a plane ticket to fly, we decided to brave the stormy roads and drive home for Christmas. Here is a peak at the inside of our Gunther Caravan, yes we all had our traveling faces on. So serious, :), or maybe we were all just bored and sick of being in the car! :) It was a beautiful drive though, perfect road conditions, clear skies-and great company. Lee remarked that he could drive all night.

But....after 6 hours of driving I was done. YES it was me, not the 2 year old that couldn't take it anymore. This came as a surpirse to Lee and I considering we have drove from Utah To Florida together sometimes driving for 20+ hours with only gas breaks when we first met. We consider ourselves seasoned road-trippers, and would never dream of wasting money on a room after only 6 hours. But............for some reason on this trip I was tired of driving by the time we hit our half way mark of Boise. I begged and pleaded with Lee to get a hotel room, using his biggest weakness "food" against him. "Come on, I said, you know they have a free all you can eat breakfast!" And that did it! We stayed in the amazing Oxford Suites (which I highly recommend to those traveling through Boise). And I couldn't have been happier.

We had a great time, getting some one on one with just our little family before all the craziness of Christmas visiting began. !

The Hotel was a super deal. with

a decent work out facility, really great rooms, a terrific

pool w. hot tub and separate kids pool, and an amazing breakfast included in the stay. IT was a worth every cent. The boys had a great time swimming while I ran on the treadmill and used the workout room.

Here we are all the next morning posing in the lobby of the Hotel. I was feeling super happy about my great nights sleep and workout, while the boys were feeling great about their huge breakfast, and swim time. :) I must say it was a win-win for all! With only six hours left on our journey we headed out on the road again.

2011-01-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

December in Portland..........

2011-01-09T17:57:00.000-08:00

We started getting ready for Christmas early this year . Jackie was old enough to really grasp the Holiday spirit and get into the excitement of the 'Guy in Red'
He helped me decorate the tree, and loved listening to Christmas music with me. (We heart our pandora radio station) We took a special trip to the library in November to get all of our Christmas books, and we bought the Polar Express movie in anticipation of our upcoming train ride in Utah.
Jack and I also took numerous shopping trips together in preparation for the big day. We mostly ended up at the mall every Friday, since that is my only weekday off of work, and we try to avoid taking Lee with us on Saturday-since he is not a born shopper like Jack and I.

Yes its true, my little man can shop with the best of them, and of course considering that I could window shop from dusk til dawn I am thrilled. Just give the boy a mall-car/cart to ride in and something tasty to eat and he can shop for hours without complaining. After a few hours we usually visit the indoor play area, but I must say he is my favorite shopping partner at the moment. No whining, complaining, or personal schedule or agenda to keep. Its a great arrangement. :)
By Christmas Jack had memorized all of the kids Christmas songs.
His mind amazes me, I still catch him walking around the house singing "Up on the house top, click, click, click, down through the chimney with old "Saint Nix", adorable!-

Notice the flag near the top of our white tree, this is because Lee has taught Jack the entire
pledge of allegiance.(I will post a video soon). He can say the entire thing on his own, and yes Lee couldn't be prouder.
So Lee thought we should put our flag on the top of the tree, to help with their morning pledge. So as you can see, that is what we did.

We made our annual Gingerbread house, and sugar cookies. It was so much fun having Jack old enough to help me this year. Of course like any 2 year old, he ate way too much candy before we could get it on the house. Our house collapsed a couple of times and Dad came to the rescue. Next year we will go with the pre-assembled kind. :)

The WSCC Christmas Gala

This year we finally made it to Lee's School's Christmas Gala. We went with our friends the Zuckerans and had a great time. The Gala was held in Portland at the Forrestry Center, the food was amazing, and there were different levels to go to, with dancing, booths to chat it, and even a chair lift.
It was so nice to get dressed up and socialize with adults only. We were able to talk with The President of Lee's school and his wife, only to find out that they are good friends with Dr Hansen-Lee's future employer in Orem. Its amazing sometimes what a small world it really is. Nights like that remind me that we really need more dates.

Jackie, Kaleb, Linken, and Travis painting their ornaments.

Since we have lived in Portland we have went home to Utah for Christmas every year around the 17-18. This year Jackson was able to host a cookie and ornament decorating party with his best friends before we left.

I love being a Mom. Having Jackson has really brought the Christmas magic to our little home. It is so much fun re-living the childhood excitement of Christmas, through the eyes of a little boy. Our last December in Portland, was one to remember.

Thankful Thursday

2010-12-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was a special one. We were able to travel to Seattle to spend it with The Dave and Chalene Thompson Family.

When Chalene and I were little girls we were cousins and best friends, who happened to live in different states. We were always plotting and planning on how we would get together, and once we were together at our Gram's Ranch we would then start plotting on how to stay together. Planning elaborate schemes in order to keep our parents from separating us, included switching the salt and pepper shakers (I don't know what purpose that would have served? :)), hiding, and lots and lots of tears.
Now here we are both living in the Northwest putting our husbands through graduate school, and raising our little boys. We had a fun time and met some new Seattle friends. Jackson especially enjoyed his time with cousin Myles and yellow dog Misha.

In the Spirit of Thankful Thursday I wanted to write my own Thankful 2010 list.
1. I am thankful for my family.
For a husband who keeps pushing through his schooling in order to enable our family to reach our goals.
For my son whose little light fills up my life, in little and big ways I never imagined possible.

2. For my extended family. For their love and support both emotionally and financially while Lee and I have completed our education for the last 11 years! (Yes I started my undergrad at USU in 2000 right after graduating high school)

3. I am grateful for eternal families. I am grateful that after 10 years of seperation from my brother I still remember the peace and promise I felt the day we did his temple work. I am thankful to have been born under the covenant of an eternal family, and blessed to be a link in that chain.
4. I am also very grateful for my job. I have an amazing job. I am truly blessed to work a job in which I can choose my own hours, make a great salary, and spend time with children on the autism spectrum (who truly are the most amazing kids ever)!
I have an terrific boss and coworkers, I feel truly blessed to have met some amazing individuals while working with
Autism Behavioral Consulting.

5. I am thankful for my health. I am grateful that I can walk outside my front door and run as far as my mind allows, I am grateful for the emotional and physical health my Heavenly Father has granted me. I am grateful for the ability to have children, this is truly one of the greatest gifts a women has. (And no , I am not pregnant)
6. I am grateful for free agency. We all have a choice. Every day we can choose to make it a great day, we can choose to love our life, learn from the past, and embrace the future. Happiness is a choice.

7. I am super grateful for the year 2011. The year Lee finishes school, the year we get to go home to Utah. Forever. Yes, I have been gone 7 years too long.

I am thankful I took time to remember all that I have to be thankful for, I was inspired by a fellow blogger who does Thankful Thursdays every week. What about you? What are you thankful for? If you are reading this consider yourself tagged for a "Thankful 2o1o list!"

Octoberfest

2010-12-05T22:24:00.001-08:00

We love Autumn!

The colorful leaves, bright yellow, crisp red, and burnt orange.

This year we have an

amazing backyard with the most incredible trees, to

watch change with the season.

They are so beautiful, and even more fun to jump in.

Oregon is a great place

to take in the

sights of Fall.

We are big f

ans of Halloween, dressing up, carving pumpkins

and trick-or-treating.

We visited Leipold Farms again this year, and had a great day. The sky was blue, the pumpkins were plentiful, and Jack chose a great pony to ride named

"Cowboy."

Sisters

2010-11-16T23:04:00.000-08:00

A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.
-Isadora James

My sister Cherlyn and her Boyfriend
Janzten were able
to come to Portland the weekend before Halloween.
Despite the rain, we managed to have a good time. We visited Frightmares, the Spook Alley at the Rose Garden, and then watched a scary movie-which I might add was way too scary for me!
We did a little shopping, a little voo-doo, and a little Saturday market,
and of course we laughed a lot.
You know at the kind of stuff you can only laugh at with your sister. :)
Good times. Love ya sis.

29 it is.................

2010-11-03T21:56:00.001-07:00

During the last week in September I turned 29. It was a great birthday, it was so nice to have my parents here to celebrate with me. I love having family visit, especially awesome grandparents that give Jack all the love and attention he needs, plus a little extra. :) I also felt pretty spoiled thanks to the all of the great restaurants my parents took us too their treat, and the birthday clothes shopping spree my Mom took me on. It was prefect. Thanks Mom.
Here is my birthday cake, with my dads nickname for me since I was a little girl written on the bottom.

We took my parents to Big Al's in Vancouver, and had a great dinner while Lee cheered for his favorite team the Boise State Bronco's. We were constantly busy while they were here and hit up a lot of our favorite Portland spots,

Our favorite restaurant "Beaches" in Vancouver.
We love this place, it sits right on the Columbia, and you can watch the Sail-Boat's pull right up to the dock and order take out,

We visited the Rose Gardens.

And also made our first official trip to Mt. Saint Helen's

It was worth the drive

On Saturday my parents watched Jack so that Lee and I could go on a date, we went to Barnes and Nobel just to hang out together and read, one of our favorite things to do, and then to a movie. It was some much needed couple time.
My guy.

Later in the week I got to celebrate with the girls at the Cheesecake factory for my birthday, Thanks Sabby for setting up a fun night, with some awesome food! All in all it was a great weekend to turn 29.

I'm 29. It is a great age. So great, that I plan on staying 29 forever. :)

07.30.08 The day that brightened our World.

2010-10-02T21:08:00.001-07:00

Flash Back July 30th 2010.

Jack wakes up around 7:30.
"Good morning son, its your birthday!" Jack was so excited to run out and see all of the balloons and birthday decor lining the living room-and of course the chocolate frosted cupcakes sitting on the table. "I want a cupcake he announced!" And that is exactly what he got, right there at 8:00 AM in the morning on a Friday in July, because its not everyday Jack turns #2.

After the cupcake there were presents to be unwrapped- including a large basketball hoop,money for his piggy from friends, a new tent from his best friend K, special packages from Grandparents, and lots singing "Happy Birthday to Jack." It was a perfect Friday, no work for Mom, cupcakes for breakfast, and even visits from friends who wanted to say Happy Day.

A Special Tent from K.

The evening included dinner at our favorite restaurant, "The
Beaches" on the Columbia in Vancouver.
Jack got to throw rocks in the water, and blow out his candle on his big boy dessert.

Jack and his birthday dessert

Lee and our good friend Forrest, who was visiting from Utah and joined us for dinner.

Lee and I taking advantage of a picture moment outside of Beaches.

Forrest and Lee giving Jack a ride.

After Dinner Lee and Forrest went to the movies,
while Jackson and I, had a Mommy-son-date- snuggling in the big bed.

Here is Jack so intent on his movie. :) I love to snuggle my little guy when
he still lets me, he's growing up too fast. I just Love my little man more than words can express.

Happy Birthday Smarty Pants, you are wise beyond your years. Love Mom.

NEW BLOG!!

2010-08-31T00:27:00.001-07:00

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I wanted to announce my new blog. It is nothing fancy, just the rantings of a girl who hated running in high school, and now cannot function without it. So much of my life is devoted to running, training, and attempting to maintain healthy eating habits for myself and my family-that I REALLY needed an extra avenue to put my thoughts in order. Since our family blog will someday be printed and used as a journal of my families life, I didn't want to fill it with my daily ups and downs of staying on the running/fitness wagon. I created this blog to keep myself accountable, track miles, and overall achieve more in the area of fitness and health, and maybe help to motivate other fellow runners or health seekers, like so many amazing people have done for me.

ENJOY

http://valerie-becauseirun.blogspot.com

Family Ties

2010-08-19T22:34:00.002-07:00

Here are four wonderful women. My sister Cherlyn who is one of my greatest blessings and friends, My Mom- who has done so much for me and my family, and continues to be an amazing support and friend in my life, and a super Grandma to my son Jack. I love u Mom. And last by not least my Grandma Peterson or just "Gram" as I call her, who is also one of my greatest friends, and mentors.

My Gram is past her 80th birthday and still looks "put together" and "poised" everyday of her life. You will not find this lady sitting around in her later years, she still works more than a part time job-waking up at 5 am everyday since I can remember, taking the day head on. She is a "strong" woman in every sense of the word, physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually- she is the Matriarch of her family and has such a strong sense of self, that you cannot help but try to emulate her "no nonsense, get the job done" attitude. I remember one memory very clear of my Gram. I was experiencing at the age of 19 the most traumatic event in my life, and falling apart. She took me aside and told me to get it together, that falling apart never helped any bad situation get any better. The woman has a way with words, any of her children and grandchildren can attest for that, and yes I got it together very quickly. Her wisdom and silent example have been a guiding force through out my life. I love her dearly.

My Grandmother has a love and a talent for music, one which she passed onto my own father. At a young age she taught her self to read music, and then to play the piano and organ. She is a well known organist who has played at numerous events and served her community tirelessly for well over 50 years. I am hoping that her music gene went from my Dad to Jackson, since it clearly skipped me. On our recent trip to Utah Jack got to visit Great Grammy Piano- as he likes to call her. Gram said in response to that "Val-rey you have him call me Grandma Ellen-piano." In a voice that only Gram can use. :)

So focussed.............

He did nothing, but run from the organ to the piano while we were there. He loves music.

Jack still asks to go to "Grammy Piano's house"

I hope Jack inherits "Gram's" love and talent for music.

Its official Jackson loves music. He loves to play the piano, so much in fact that his own Grandma Peterson (my mom) went out and bought a piano keyboard, which flew home with us. Yes, he's just a little spoiled. :)

Ft. Vancouver

2010-08-14T15:13:00.001-07:00

Fort Vancouver Independence Day

We Celebrated the 4^th of July, one of our favorite holidays at Fort Vancouver (in Vancouver Washington) this year.

We were not disappointed.

We LOVE America.

We are proud of the Red White and Blue.

We are grateful for the freedoms we enjoy.

The highlight of our day was watching the Bi-plane rides from Cap'n Mac @ The Pearson Air Museum

Of course the boys needed to get a picture w. the plane-hat included.

Independence Day in the United States of America is commonly referred to as the Fourth of July. It is a federal holiday to commemorate July 4, 1776, the day on which America got its independence from the Kingdom of Great Britian

What an amazing day. I hope that one of the legacies I can give to my son, is to help him understand the importance of Freedom. I want Jack to appreciate all that this great Country has to offer, all that it has given our family, and the long line of patriotic men and women, who have given their service and lives to protect and provide the freedoms we enjoy.

God Bless America.

"National honor is national property of the highest value."
~ James Monroe

A Reason. A Season. Or A Lifetime.

2010-08-01T14:56:00.000-07:00

A Reason. A Season. Or A Lifetime.
People come into your life for
a reason
a season
or a
lifetime.
When you know which one it is
you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a
reason it is usually to meet a need
you have expressed.

They have come to assist you through a difficulty
to provide you with
guidance
and
support.

To aid you physically
emotionally
or
spiritually.
They may seem like a godsend
and
they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then
without any wrongdoing on your part
or
at an inconvenient time
this person will say
or
do something to bring the relationship to an
end.

Sometimes they die.
Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up
and
force you to take a stand.

What we must realize is that our need has been met
our desire
fulfilled
their work is done.

Some people come into your life for a season
because your turn has
come to share
grow
or
learn.
They bring you an experience of
peace
or
make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it
it is real.
But only for a season.

Lifetime
relationships teach you lifetime lessons
things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional
foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson
love the person
and
put what you have learned to use in all other
relationships
and
areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Adults Only Vacay....

2010-07-25T16:17:00.001-07:00

As many of you know recently Lee and I were able to take a couples trip to the gorgeous Glen Canyon Recreation area, home of Lake Powell. This larger than life place sits on the Southern Utah & Northern Arizona.
Lake Powell took 17 years to fill, with a storage capacity of 27,000,000 acre-feet, making it the second largest man-made reservoir in the country. What does that mean, well after 300 + dollars in gas and two full pwr. boating days on the lake we were able to cover about 4% of the lake. Its a big place. :) It has so many side canyons that it is said to have more shoreline than the entire west coast. If you have a chance to ever visit this place, I highly suggest you take it, you will not be disappointed.
As you can clearly tell from the last post I have an obvious bias to the place, and was so excited to take Lee back to my favorite place........

It was important for me to share this place with Lee, and I am so thankful he let me take this vacation! It was so very much needed.

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We did a little camping.....a little hiking........some boating......a lot of relaxing......And my all time favorite wakeboarding, seriously I would wakeboard and nothing else at LP if I could.

It was an amazing trip, I am so thankful that my parents watched Jackson for us, and took such great care of him. It was so refreshing to see the red rock dessert again. I love the green in Oregon, but my heart remains where the sky is open and the landscape streches as far as you can see. I love the heat, the water and canyon lands. I know this is a place I will go back to several times during my lifetime, the lake is such a part of me.

A girl in my Bunko group also used to work at the Lake. Brenda put it best when she said, "Lake Powell is not just a lake, it is an experience, the lake becomes part of you, and you become part of it- and you have no choice but to return."

FLASH BACK LP 2001

2010-07-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

I used to live and work at a place called LAKE POWELL.

For two summers o1, and 02 I worked until noon and was wakeboarding by 2:00

In Lake Powell every day is a great day.....
(Summer 1. Anasazi Inn, Andrea, Maggie and I)

I left USU for LP the first summer w. my girl Dominique and cousin Chalene........off to the middle of no where!
Lake Powell is in the middle of the dessert, with the closest town if u can call 700 people a town about 2 hours away.

meaning...the only people who live at Lake Powell are people who work for the resort. Usually summer college kids like myself, looking for some adventure.

With my freshman year at USU behind me I talked my Best Friend Tyffanie into heading back to the lake. The next Summer did not dissappoint. Here are some of my favorite photos of the lake.

(Working at the Restaurant in our awesome orange shirts.........)

When the sun went down we went out.........to Brown Town. (The nickname of the dorms where we lived)

Spring Fever

2010-05-10T23:01:00.000-07:00

I have been on somewhat of a blogging hiatus lately, partially due to the demands of a part-time (plus some) work schedule, a curious 21 month old- as well as a host of busy activities.
During the last part of March my parents were able to visit.
We really got out there and made the most of our time, with trips to the Mt. Hood Inn, Japanese Gardens, Restaurants on the waterfront, the Temple, and even a memorable date night for Lee and I in China Town.
It was a great visit, made much easier by the fact that we are now in a house, with a third bedroom! We LOVE being in a house, especially myself. The house is much bigger than our apartment, and its square footage more than doubles on sunny days when Jack is able to play in our back yard.
We love our neighbors, our street, the garage to store our stuff, the park down the street, and the privacy a house provides. Yes, I must say that my love for Portland life has increased ten fold, since making our way to 12351 Stanton Street.

For those of you who know me well, know-that I am a HUGE list person. I make a to-do list almost everyday, I have week lists, month lists, checking off each item as I progress throughout my busy days. So to wrap up our Spring thus far I'm putting it in list format, partially for the simplicity a list provides, and also because I plan on printing off this blog someday and I want to document the day to day trivial events.
Jackson's Spring Accomplishments...
1. He can sing entire versus to several songs, his favorite this week "Lets go fly a kite!" Adorable
2. He knows all of his ABC's and letter sounds, and can speak in sentences-as well as follow 3-4 step directions
3. His best friend is still Mr. K. Mangum, lovingly referred to by Jack as Cable.

4. He caught his first fish this Spring

6. Loves his new art easel, jumping on the tramp with the big kids, and digging in our garden.

Lee...
1. Is on the down hill slope of school now! 1 year and 4 1/2 months left until we can come home. :)

2. Shaved his head and I love it! Pictures to come.
3. Ran a 1/2 marathon with me at 2 days notice, with no training!

We had such a good time together, even though the race conditions were less than desirable...

Mrs. Gunther (AKA me)
1. Found the most amazing running partner ever! No schedules to arrange, she never complains or goes faster than me, meet the 205! I'm in love. She has helped me get almost a minute faster on average....
2. Is so so so excited for our couples only Summer getaway to the gorgeous Lake Powell I can't even stand it. I used to live and work at this amazing resort during my undergrad summers, and my memories there are truly some of my fondest times.
3. Last but not least, my sister and favorite girl is coming to town this weekend. I miss her terribly and plan on making the most of our time.
4. Oh yes and I almost forgot, I PLANTED A VEGE GARDEN, and flowers! I am so proud of myself, and my sweetie for making the boxes for me! I will post picture updates on my lil' vegetable's as they grow.

a day in the life of..........

2010-03-01T23:11:00.000-08:00

We live here

We love Oregon because of places like this:

:

Mr. Gunther spends 60 hr. weeks here:

So that in 1.5 years we can move back here:

We are currently dreaming of our 2010 summer vacation to here

We just can't seem to get enough of the little man over here:

:

"He will send comfort."

2010-01-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

This is my brother Cole.

Many of you knew him and loved him as I did, many of you didn't have that opportunity. On January 5th 2001 we laid him to rest at the age of 17. The week he passed away has always been a dark week for my family, I truly believe Heavenly Father is mindful of our heartache and sorrows. On January 5th 2010, 9 years to the day we buried our brother, son, and friend, we were sent an Angel, Blakely Nicole. My sweet niece I feel, was sent to help comfort our hearts and brighten the world with her special spirit. I know my brother would have loved both his new niece, and Jack-his nephew, Perhaps he even had something to do with the due date :). I Love my brother and miss him everyday, though I know he is in a better place. I am so grateful for the plan of salvation, to know that we can be with our loved ones again, and the wonderful blessing of an eternal family. Welcome Blakely Nicole , you are so loved, and such a wonderful addition to our family.

Holiday Magic #2

2009-12-28T20:09:00.000-08:00

Holiday Magic

2009-12-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Utah has been a whirlwind of events. We braved the icy roads and drove from Portland to Brigham City on Sunday the 20th, deciding to get a Hotel room in our recent home state of Idaho around 2:00 am. After a great nights sleep we were on the road arriving at Lee's Dad's house Monday morning in BC Utah. Jack setteled in for a nap and Lee being the awesome husband he is let me go out for a girls night with some of my best friends. We went to the movie the "Blind Side" and we were not dissapointed. It was nice to get out with just the girls-especially to be back in Utah. The next day we went down to stay in Ogden with Lee's brother's family. Lee was able to get together with his good friends and brother for a day at the gym, while the girls took all of the kiddies to the lights at Willard Bay. We had a great evening hanging out with friends and family, the kids loved the Christmas ornanments that Kathy brought, and Jack loved playing with all of his cousins. Christmas Eve brought more parties, with The annual Gunther Family Lunch at Jack's great Grandpa's house Lloyd Gunther, followed by a Christmas Eve party in Tremonton at the Warburton home (Lee's Mom's family).
We loved seeing all of our Northern Utah friends and family, and look forward to moving back to the area in 2011 when Lee finishes his Doctorate of Chiropractic. I moved to Logan in 2000 right after graduating high school to attend USU. I love the area. I met Lee in 03, and after spending time with his family in Brigham City I knew that this was the place I would raise my family.
On Christmas Eve we headed out to my parents house in Duchesne Utah. We arrived late, but Jack was wide awake and amazed at the 14 foot+ tree in the middle of the great room (it helps to have vaulted ceilings)
We had an amazing Christmas, and as usual Jackson was the star of the show. I am so grateful to have a family who loves and adores my son as much as we do. He loves his papa, and rides the four wheeler with papa to feed the horses. He is Grandma's buddie and loves to play with all of his toys, he asks about "cherry-and Mav" and tells everyone he meets his ABC's. Yes I will throw in my brag of the day on my 16 1/2 month old. He knows all of his ABC's in order or seperate, he can count to ten, knows most of his colors, 3-5 of his shapes and can say three word sentances. He will repeat any word you ask him to, and can fill in the words of his favorite songs. We are working on the letter sounds now, and based on his letter recognition skills I am sure he will know them in no time. We of course like all parents are so proud of him, and are continually amazed at his rapid development and love that he brings into our lives. We are so grateful to have Jackson in our life, and cannot imagine not having his special spirit to brighten our day. Life is good. We are so blessed.

Autism Awareness

2009-11-17T13:59:00.001-08:00

I am asked constantly what I do for work, so in order to inform and help educate Autism Awareness I would like to share a little bit about what I do.

After graduating from USU in 04 with a B.S. in the Social Science field I moved to Idaho and became certified as an Intensive Behavioral intervention Therapist. This is a very specific program sponsored by the state of Idaho which is available to children.
IBI therapists work with children to develop positive behaviors and the skills they need to function in typical home and community environments. IBI is a one-to-one, time-limited service that is individualized for each child. IBI uses theories of Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavioral Supports. One of the primary teaching techniques used is Discrete Trial Teaching. Skills are also generalized into play situations and naturalistic situations. http://www.childrenstherapyplace.com/ibi.html

I worked as an IBI therapist with primarily autistic children and as an HR representative for "The Children's Center' in Idaho for 4 years. During this time I decided to pursue a Master's degree in Human resource Training and Development from ISU. I worked full time during the day and went to school at nights, spending most of 2008 working on my Thesis, which I successfully completed & defended at 9 months pregnant. I worked right up until the day I had Jackson, literally the day of July 30th 2008 was my last day as an IBI therapist and Jackson's birthday.

Two months later we moved to Portland for Lee's schooling and I left my job. Leaving such a great job was a difficult transition for me. I love being home with my son, but I truly believe that I am a better Mom when I am able to work outside of the home. My time with Jackson and Lee is much more effective and quality based when I am able to work. I also feel that I have an obligation to work considering I have 6years of post high school education which I can use to benefit my family. Finding a job in Oregon that met my qualifications and schedule was not easy. Prior to taking my job this summer as an Autism Therapist I had been offered numerous positions. Many were in the H.R. field requiring I work outside the home from 9-5; this was not an option for our family, while other job offers did not meet my pay requirements. I do not believe that working outside of the home works for every mother, but for me the perfect job came along for my qualifications and our families' schedule.

I work for ABC (Autism Behavior consulting) services out of Vancouver WA. http://www.autismabc.org I work part time averaging 15-20 hours per week. I set my own schedule and try to work around Lee's school schedule so that Jack is typically with him when I'm working. I am blessed to have a wonderful friend who helps watch Jackson, I trust her with him completely. This job is truly an amazing blessing for our family; I am so grateful I get to work in the autism field and help support my family while Lee completes his education.

I am very passionate about what I do, and helping the children and families I work with. Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 150 births (Centers for Disease Control Prevention, 2007). Roughly translated, this means as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. And this number is on the rise. Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing at a rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the ASA estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. One should keep in mind however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees -this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. By learning the signs, a child can begin benefiting from one of the many specialized intervention programs.

What I do
I follow a very structured program designed and directed by a psychologist and BCBA Director, employing Discrete Trial Training and Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy where core skills are broken down into manageable parts, and taught systematically using prompting strategies and a positive reinforcement system. These sub-skills are taught until mastered, and then those skills are used to build new skills. Challenging behaviors are analyzed, and a program is developed to reduce those behaviors while replacing them with socially-acceptable replacement behaviors.

Though this is a lengthy blog, it is really just a brief synopsis of what I do. Awareness and education are key, as well as early Intervention therapy for children who are diagnosed with Autism. If you would like to learn more about Autism please visit the Autism Society of America's webpage at :
http://www.autism-society.org

Facing the Miles

2009-10-19T08:37:00.001-07:00

I remember watching a friend run cross country in high school and wondering to myself why anyone would volunteer to run. I played volleyball in high school and running was always something given to our team as a punishment, miss a serve run a ladder, hit the ball out of bounds-the team ran a lap, it was something I learned to avoid-it was punishment. My memories of junior high include avoiding track days at all cost, running the mile twice a quarter was torture.
(this is not my #)

Running was a journey I started during my undergraduate at Utah State in Logan Utah, ironically the same place I finished my 3rd Marathon last September. It was my freshman year at USU, and I signed up for a workout class. The day I ran my first mile without stopping I was 19, I couldn't believe I had survived, but I had-and I was addicted. Running for me is about so much more than just running.

(BlackSmith Fork Canyon)

I relish getting to see the sunrise, getting that special jump on the day before the rest of the world, feeling that postrun glow push me through busy mornings and long days. "Running is so boring," so many people complain to me. I disagree with this entirely. I get some of my best work done while I am running. I write therapy plans, solve complex work issues, find solutions to nagging problems, finish chapters in my Graduate Thesis-then walk myself through its defense, and even compose comprehensive to-do lists without touching pen to paper. I also daydream, play out amazing vacations Lee and I will someday take, listen to songs which transform me back to childhood and beyond, grieve for lost loved ones, and celebrate all of the blessing life has given me.

Then there are times I think about absolutely nothing except the run, nothing but the sound of my feet hitting the pavement like a therapeutic trance calming my information overloaded mind. I have run 8 months pregnant, and 5 weeks after my son was born, both times my pace was so slow Lee could speed walk and keep up, but it didn't matter to me, the point was I was moving. I have ran in Mexico, Georgia, Boston, and down the streets of Daytona Florida, in California along the beach with Lee, a trail with mountain lion warnings in Idaho, farm roads in Utah, past waterfalls in Oregon, and across the red rock desert of Page Arizona.

(This is the temple which got me through the race, I ran towards it for the last 6 miles, since the race ended at a park just below the temple hill)

I have felt pain at miles 19 and 20 of a Marathon that would knock me to my knees on a regular day, but not on race day, because I am ready for them, I am prepared mentally and physically, there is nothing that can break my stride. "Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go…" T.S. Eliot. I don't believe everyone needs to run to find out who they are, but I do believe that anyone can do anything they put their mind to do, especially running.

( Hardware Ranch where the race began)

I have said it several times; anyone with enough willpower, heart, and desire can finish a marathon, which is more about an individual's level of determination and grit-than their physical ability. Training is essential though, 26.2 miles demands a persons respect. Life is about setting goals, new goals, higher goals, avoiding complacency at all costs. For me, my future running goal is the coveted Boston Marathon, which requires Women ages 18-34 to run 26.2 miles in a maximum time of 3 hrs and 40 minutes. Wow. That is fast! That equals around an 8:20 mile for the entire 26.2 miles, meaning my ten minute miles aren't going to get me to Boston, and changes are on the horizon for more speed work! I have a long way to go.

This goal today seems unachievable, but so did the thought of running a Marathon 5 years ago. I would have never believed that my body or mind could sustain that type of endurance, but it can, and I did. We never know how far we can push ourselves in any aspect of our lives until we just do it. A favorite quote of mine reads… "We have no idea what infinite potential for greatness we possess- just below the surface of what we limit ourselves to do." That is the question then for all of us, what infinite potential do we all possess just below the surface of our fear, and how much of it have we actually discovered?

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

2009-09-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element. It is my personal approach that creates the climate. It is my daily mood that makes the weather. I possess tremendous power to make life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In all situations, it is my response that decides whether a crisis is escalated or de-escalated, and a person is humanized or de-humanized. If we treat people as they are, we make them worse. If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.

~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The latest and Greatest

2009-09-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

Party Week

2009-08-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

We had a busy week. Grandma Peterson flew in from Utah and stayed for a week, we were able to celebrate her birthday at a fancy litte desert retaurant in downtown Portland, as well as Jackson's first birthday party. Jackson loved having his Grandma spoil him, and I really appreciated all of the help with his party.

The birthday balls were a huge hit with the babies, which was a good thing-since the 70 degree weather wasn't allowing for much of our original 'water party.'

It was a great party! We appreciate everyone who showed up to help us celebrate, and all of the great gifts as well!

Jackson got to eat a little dog cake, it was so cute before he started eating it! In retrospect though, I think I will do a different color than muddy brown next year, it looked much too much like

"- - - -"

(u get the picture), but he still had so much fun eating it! He is such a QT, we coudn't imagine our family without him! Happy Birthday little Jack and Grandma!! We love you. Can you sense the apprehension? He wasn't quite sure, right up until he discovered how yummy frosting really is!!

An Oregon Summer

2009-07-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here it is the end of July, almost one year to the day (tomorrow) since Jackson was born and we are in the middle of a great Oregon summer. We have had so much fun this summer, it safe to say we are adjusted to Portland life, and we LOVE it here! :)

This is the first summer since high-school which I haven't been working a 9-5 job, even last July I worked right up until the day i was induced with Jack. Staying home has been a new experience. Now that Jack is turning one, I will be re-entering the workforce, but it has been so much fun having this time at home with him and enjoying our wonderful summer days. So far this summer we have been on a ton of hikes, usually Sunday after church, or in the evening after Lee gets home from school, we will drive up to the Gorge and check out a new hike, so far we haven't been disappointed! Lee and I both love getting out and moving, spending time in nature and teaching our son the importance of an active lifestyle. We even found our own little waterfall, it is a tiny one off the beaten path called "fairy falls."Along with our hikes my summer mornings have included a lot of miles. At least three times a week I am up around 6:00 am, my running girls and I getting our morning dose of fresh air and a great workout, completing our goals and setting new ones. We just finished a 1/2 together and now I'm setting my sights of the Top of Utah full marathon in September. This is truly one of the best parts of my day, waking up before the rest of the world, pushing myself, spending time getting my thoughts in order, and gaining strength from other motivated people doing the same thing.I love summer. I love the heat, the fresh fruit we were able to pick and make jam from, the BBQ's, Jackson's cute tan lines, spending time with our great friends at the pool in our complex, the green everywhere, the fact that the sun stays out until 9:00 pm, my races, my evening walks with Lee, and just the overall feeling in the air. The feeling of freedom, fireworks, parades, carnivals, and good friends. Aww...its *Summer* what more can I say.

Heyyyyyyyyyyyy...they sayyyyyyyyyyy...........its your birthday..............

2009-06-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADA (Jackson with Great Gram)
from your biggest fans in Utah. We miss you so much, we wanted to send a birthday wish your way and show you what we have been up to........................

Jackson ate his first ice cream cone at the zoo....................

While watching the elephants do tricks..............................

we saw the rock creek damn come over the top................

And Mom held me up to see the monkey's too!

I've held a baby hound puppy that just wouldn't mind......................

And got a new zoo hat and plenty of kisses from Mom everyday..................

We miss you so much and wanted to share with you all of our many adventures.........................................................

Jackson has been a big help to Grandma sweeping the porch

And a big boy with grandpa riding the horses

And we even spent time at the Starvation Reservoir.

We wish you could be here too, but we know you are studying hard.

Have a wonderful birthday, we will see you soon!!!!!

Love Valerie and Jackson.............................................................

Happy Birthday Dad!!!!!

2009-05-30T21:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad. I love you. I hope you have a wonderful day. You are such a wonderful father and example to me. You have always taught through example. Your hard work and selflessness has blessed our family through out the years.

I strive to obtain your work ethic and ability to stand true to your convictions at any place and time. Thank you for always being there for everything, whether it was a volleyball game in high school, or a race you didn't want me to run, you and mom have always supported all of your children in anything they have done. You are a wonderful father, and a terrific example. I am so blessed to have you as a father and grandfather to my son, I know he will learn from watching you and his father what truely makes a man great.

Happy Birthday.

Dad and I 1982

Peterson kids with Grandpa and Dad, 1985

Top of Utah Marathon 2007

4 years of Marital Bliss.......

2009-05-13T21:18:00.000-07:00

Four years ago today (May 14th 2005) Lee and I were married in a beautiful cabin in Utah, and then two years later we were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple(March 2007). I am still completely head-over-heels for that guy, marrying him is the best decision I have ever made, he is so much more than I deserve or expected. I wanted to document a few reasons why I have the most amazing husband, friend and father to my son any girl could ask for.

In no particular order . . .

1. He lets me take as many bites of his food as I want without asking, even after I have stated that I'm not hungry and refused to order my own, and he has the good grace not to call me on it.

2. His smile. Warm, open, and given freely.

3. His tiny guitar, that he has had since I met him, and the fact that he will still play and sing to me.

4. His spontaneity. He is always game for anything crazy, daring or unusual.

5. His utter excitement over my fixing any type of meal, he is so thankful and impressed over something as simple as boiling spaghetti.

6. His forgiveness. He does not, never has, and never will hold a grudge. He even forgives me for the ones I hold. :)

7. He tells me I look pretty (even when I don't)and that he loves me every day.

8. The color of his eyes, deep brown no speckles.

9. His Testimony.

10. His one liners from movies, and how he uses them at the perfect time.

11. His Optimism. His positive outlook is a breath of fresh air.

12. His Unselfishness. He will give a stranger the coat off of his back, and never expect anything in return.

13. His shoulders. They are perfectly broad at the top forming a triangle with his waste, what can I say . . . the guy has an amazing body.

14. His Athleticism. The boy can do anything, dunk, run, flip, hike, swim, spike, throw, catch, kick, & hack with little or no effort, and its usually done better than the guy whose actually trying.

15. His love for the temple, and his unyielding dedication to make it there once a month.

16. The fact that after a full day at school, he is so excited to play with his son-and he never looses patience with him.

17. His commitment to physical activity and good health.

18. His smell. With or without Cologne I love it!

19. His patience for my drama and bossiness.

20. The fact that he is so good natured. He has-in four years of marriage- rarely lost his temper or cool, and is always willing to talk it out-no matter how late it is.

21. His excellent communication and understanding of my needs.

22. The way he cares about our extended family.

23. All of our amazing adventures together from Zuke in Florida, to no lights in Mexico, he is so much fun to be stuck anywhere with. He makes great company in any situation.

24. His Humility. Though he is talented beyond belief at everything he does, he will be the last to tell you so, and the first to compliment you on how great you are.

25. The fact that he works so hard for our family, his desire to succeed and willingness to complete his schooling at all costs is a compliment to the great man that he is.

I love you babe.

A sad Goodbye.

2009-04-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

Its unlike me to blog about personal or private events, but I find myself tonight overcome with grief and turning to my blog to express it. This has been a very difficult week for our family. Two days ago Lee received a call that his Mom's heart had stopped, and she had been life-flighted to a hospital in Utah. It took one look at his face walking in the door from school, to know something was very wrong, Lee rarely gets upset. Lee's mother was put on life support and the family was given no hope of any brain activity.

This news came out of the blue with no prior medical heart issues. I am humbled beyond belief at my sweet husband's faith and love for the Lord as he prayed to understand Heavenly Father's plan for his mother. Lee was able to fly to Utah to be with his family when they turned off the life support, and next week we will fly back for a funeral. I am so grateful for the plan of salvation and for our Savior who made that possible.
Lee's mother Wendy had many admirable qualities which I want to strive to learn better. She was a very patient woman, and an incredible listener. She was a quite reserved woman, but extremely humble and full of humility. She was not a prideful person, and had a way of understanding others, while never judging them. She was very open, and loved others unconditionally. I am grateful for her, I believe she is responsible for so much of the goodness that is in my husband. She is his Mother, Mothers love their sons, this I know.

Above is a picture with Lee and his mother, (middle) Grandmother, and baby Jack, taken on the 2nd of April 2009.

As promised.....Lee's on stage flip

2009-04-18T09:58:00.001-07:00

Okay just like I promised here on the pictures from Lee's back flip stunt at the Powell Butte Ward Talent Show! What a sport, I signed the poor guy up unknowingly and he had no choice but to perform. The first picture is us, just a little bit before if was his turn. Does he look nervous? "Hahaha, and I couldn't help but mess with him while we waited." Though there was no need to panic, as you can see below he flipped like a champ! What a guy.

And yes for all of you wondering, he landed on both feet no hands!

Tulip Festival

2009-04-17T23:15:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we were able to visit the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn Oregon. Our friends the Weikels being native Oregonians showed us the way and gave us the grand tour. The tulips were beautiful, but it was a little cold for this time of year. Jackson and Charlene had a good time, but not as much fun as their Mom's who just couldn't get enough baby flower pictures. It was a busy Saturday followed by our ward party talent show, where Lee did a standing back flip, no hands and on the hard stage! Yes he is amazing I know. It was a crowd favorite. (I will post future pictures) :) I highly reccomend a drive to the tulip farm, such amazing colors. Happy Spring from our family to yours...

Easter Sunday & a Shiner

2009-04-14T07:28:00.001-07:00

We had an eventful Easter, On Saturday we attended a baby Easter party, and had a good time at the Wiekel's decorating eggs. Jackson is is a busy boy these days. He is not only crawling every where at 8 months but he is almost walking on his own. He cruises along everything, furniture, tables, dishwashers, bathtubs, anything with a slight ledge. He can also stand alone for about 30 seconds. During these recent explorations Jack recieved his first shiner after a table leg got in the way of his right eye. Boys will be Boys.

The Top picture is shiner day #1,the lower picture where bubee looks a little drugged ( blame it on those 5:30 am mornings :) ) is the shiner day #4

My Men in Blue on Easter Sunday, So Handsome!

Jackson and Charlene hunting eggs.

Spring Break in Utah

2009-04-08T07:59:00.001-07:00

During Lee's Spring break from Western States Chiropractic College we were able to visit Utah for my Grandma Ellen Peterson's 80th birthday party, as well as visit other famiy and friends along the way. Jackson did well on the airplane, he slept most of the way.

Jackson and cousin Cali, born just 11 days apart.

Jackson with his new freind Kloden.

Jack and his new girlfriend Harley

Of course my Grandma looked amazing as always,especially for 80 years old. Happy birthday Gram ,we love you.

As you can see Jackson did not like the swimming pool. It was late at night and we were staying at the Marriott in Provo so that I could run the Provo 1/2 marathon the next day. There were lots of noisy kids at the pool and Jack got scared.

Yes those little white specks are snow! April 4th was a snow storm in Provo, all 13 miles.