Team Millie

Even though I didn’t want to say good-bye to summer, today was a perfect fall day. The temperatures have started to cool off so I got to break out my boots, which are my most favorite thing to wear on chillier days!

Henry approved!

Then we headed downtown to watch Kate’s dog, Millie, compete in the Wiener dog races for the Oktoberfest festivities!  

 Number 5 on the track but number 1 in our hearts.

She may or may not have come in dead last, but we definitely give her an A for effort! We all had so much fun watching the races, even my man, Henry! 

Most of the dogs couldn’t figure out the goal of actually crossing the finish line but they were so darn cute running their little hearts out.

I know I say this a lot, but dogs really are the greatest!! 

So Long, Summer

How perfect is it that Brad Paisley's 'Beat this Summer' came out this year, the year of the best summer ever!?! I would say pretty perfect, since I don't think I could ever beat this these last few months.

I'm not sure words could even do it justice, so maybe some pictures will. 

Look at that girl's sweatshirt! Maybe we're related!

Oh Summertime, Don't You Leave Me

A Love Letter to Oregon

Today marks the 6-month anniversary of my move to Oregon and I could not be happier with my decision to head west!

It's no secret that I have fallen madly in love with Bend.

  

I love that the mountains appear more and more fascinating each and every time I see them.

I love the sunsets and couldn't imagine a better way to conclude each day.

I love the Deschutes River and the Oregon coast and everything in between.

I especially love the trees. Oregon has the best trees. 

I love the laid back personalities, the eclectic mix of festivals, and the abundance of outdoor recreation. I love seeing the cyclists on the way up to the Cascade Lakes and admiring their dedication.  I love that dogs are valued members of the town and are welcomed more often than not.  I love that rodeos, trucks, farms, and country music are far from rare, feels so American to me.

I love that my weekends are spent exploring. It’s nice to disconnect from technology and establish a deep connection with nature. Its unbelievably exciting to know that I’ll see something brand new to my eyes each time I embark on an adventure and that it will, without a doubt, take my breath away.  

I love that the pace of life doesn’t require you to move so quickly between moments, that you miss the one you’re in.

I love the beer culture and the breweries, and the way they’re viewed as the ideal place for hanging with friends, conducting business with a colleague, or getting to know someone new.

But most of all, I love the sense of community. I’ve yet to meet a person who doesn’t love Bend and all that is has to offer.  I love that the question “Why did you move to Bend?” prompts the response “Why not?” I love that a common bumper sticker reads "Your vacation is our life". And I especially love the overwhelming sense of pride in this town and the fact that I’m not the only one who calls it Paradise.

I love you Bend, Oregon. Thank you for being so darn beautiful, invigorating, and magical. I could not ask for a better place to call home. 

XOXO

Hail to the Redskins!!!

Today kicks off the Redskin season!!!

I cannot wait to see this guy lead us to the SuperBowl!

May the season be filled with touchdowns, victories, and lots of Griffining!

Hail to the Redskins!!!

Oh, and one last thing...is anyone else having this problem?

Today was a perfect day for a perfect day

Every day in Oregon is pretty awesome, but I think Oregon decided to really show off today!

First, we spent the morning being complete tourists at the rodeo town of Sisters! 

Dad got a real kick out of the crossing guard flags and insisted on waving one each time we crossed the road. 

We bought some omazing fudge!! Clearly not following my paleo diet this week...

After shopping around the town, I decided to take Mom and Dad to see some houses in an attempt to convince them to move out here. Look at that view of the mountains!! Who wouldn't want to live here? No commitment to move from the rents just yet, 

but I'll keep trying! 

After Sisters, we drove a few miles down the road to Black Butte Ranch. This is seriously one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. 

Now, on to Dad's quest to become Fly Fisherman of the Year! 

First step: Get Oregon fishing license. Check! 

Second step: Learn from the best. Check! 

Third Step: Catch a fish. Check!  

Oops, no fish this time. Unless you count the LDR (long distance release) as Jeannelle calls it. Oh well, two out of three ain't bad. Better luck next time. 

Huge thanks to Ed for taking Dad out on the Deschutes!

Mom, Raylee, Jeannelle, and I had a great time hanging out on the river as well. 

Thanks for being so perfect Oregon! You continue to amaze me every day!