Life with the Lyons

The Homestretch

2012-02-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

33 Weeks. Our birth month is quickly approaching and we are doing great. Katie continues to have aches and pains but these don't limit her ability to complete the day to day. We have had to say no to some hiking with friends or reconsider when there is a lot of walking involved.

We had a wonderful visit from Jason and his new girlfriend Rachel.

Great conversation, great food and lots of down time made for a great time.

Jason walking the border. To the left- Canada. To the right- United States.

Peace Arch Park is the Northwest border crossing.

It is the month of the baby shower. Three baby showers in three weeks. Next week is a skype shower with the Ohio family, then a Spokane shower, and then Yakima.

31 Weeks.

2012-01-29T16:59:00.000-08:00

Here's the 31 weeker. Baby Lyon is 3lbs and very active. We love to lay in bed at night and watch Katie's stomach change shape as our little girl stretches out and completes somersaults. I will press my ear to her stomach and get a quick swift kick as if she's saying, "Seriously! It's cramped enough in here!" Other than a couple aches and pains as well as some difficulty with getting comfortable at night, Katie is doing great. Thank you to those who have already sent us baby gifts! We really appreciate your thoughtfulness. Can't wait to share the next few weeks with you.

When it's good to be inside.

2012-01-20T19:28:00.000-08:00

Kaleb, Teanna, and Joel enjoying some coffee on a cold Saturday. Leila decided to literally jump into the photo landing over my shoulders.
I snapped this photo last night at 1:40 am while I was stoking the fire on a chilly night.
This is for Bill and Colleen. Leila instigating a playful match. Jessie had to warm up to her.

He did...

Until baby...Leila is cheap entertainment. Though she is growing increasingly irritated with my annoying attitude. Here she lets me know it.

26 Weeks

2011-12-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

Baby Lyon is kicking and rolling more than ever. Mom is doing great. Third trimester here we come!

Grow a pair.

2011-12-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

I've done a lot of things lately that I don't want to do. In my prayers, I've asked for greater opportunities to serve. Of course that won't be easy. I have to drop my selfish attitude, man up, and press on. My biggest success lately, in my eyes, has been heating the house. We have electric heat (high cost) and a wood burning stove. It's not the last thing I want to do at the end of a work day but it's close. I arrive home and exchange the tie and slacks for gloves, a head lamp, and a maul. Soon, our small home will go from 60 to 80 degrees. This usually means a happy wife still wrapped up in a cocoon of blankets and me on the top of the covers with beads of sweat dripping off my forehead. We haven't been taking a whole lot of pictures lately so I thought I'd post these. These are the 20 week ultrasound photos. Baby Lyon is now 25 weeks so these pics are old news. I, dad, love feeling her kick and punch my hand. Katie would have a different opinion on the matter. There's nothing like getting sucker punched in the bladder and then having a grown man talking baby talk while poking your belly. Let me tell you...that girl can kick! It used to be cute but last night I pulled my hand back and looked at Katie and said, "That just ain't right."

She has cyclist legs.

I had great intentions to throw down something good in this post. Something insightful. Something memorable. But when I look at her pictures I can't get past the tibia. She has metatarsals and phalanges. It's amazing. I look at her heart ventricles and nasal bone (She got Katie's thank God!). She also has my heart. I'm experiencing a level of ownership and protection like never before. It's overwhelming. Then i'm reminded there is One Greater. One who knows and allows her blood to flow. That makes it easier and much more enjoyable.

Quit the whining. Quit the complaining. Do what's been asked of you. Take the criticism from those who love you. Walk the dogs cause you need it more than they do. Treat your patients not just for their health but because they feed your wife and child. It's not about you Scott. It never is and never will be...ever. And that's ok.

22 Weeks

2011-12-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

Here you go. I swear she is going to pop soon! The due date is four months from today.
We spent the weekend in Seattle. I completed some continuing education and Katie took advantage of some shopping. No pictures cause I forgot the camera.

I like Canada but I love Poteca.

2011-11-28T20:18:00.000-08:00

Let the tradition continue in other states west of the Mississippi. Every year give or take a few days around New Years my family makes a Serbian dessert called Poteca. I can't really describe it cause it's that good. Katie and her mom decided to take it on this year. Unfortunately they decided to do it right in the middle of a Saturday during college football.
This is the finished project. I uploaded the pictures backwards.

The weekend before, Katie and I headed north into Canada. Whistler, B.C. is one of the best ski areas in the world. We went for a marriage conference.
Our room was amazing. The view was better.
This is the bridge from when entering/leaving Vancouver.

Canadian money. It's prettier than ours.
Yes, this whole blog is backwards. I should have said something about that at the very beginning. Oh well, that's what makes me look back at these posts a year from now and laugh. Still not showing very much!

A Potluck Post.

2011-11-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been awhile. We have been busy beyond belief! I didn't take the time to sort out the last couple weeks so here is a smorgasbord of pictures from the last couple weeks.

Katie is now 20 weeks. This is her at 17 weeks. So not showing much yet. (even though she's trying in this picture.) It's crazy how you find out and then it takes forever to show! Last weekend Kate's brother, Ben, got married. Here is Katie with her mom.
Still not showing. There's a baby in there I swear. That's what happens when you have abs of steel.

Big sis making sure kid brother doesn't have any blemishes while up front.
Everyone wore converse.
Grandma and Grandpa Unruh.
Kate's dad sang at the wedding. He sounds like an angel. I clapped at the end but no one else did and then everyone looked at me. I was embarrassed but not really.

Pastor Greg (a Buckeye) and Jay enjoying some catching up at the rehearsal dinner.

A week before the wedding I had a craving for my moms apple dumplin' recipe.
Katie and Vivian made them for me. They turned out great mom.
Summer is over and Fall is fading fast. As snow approaches we still have terrific sunsets that continue to draw me to the shoreline to snap a couple photos.
She doesn't care that it's freezing.
Looking north to Canada.

Our home has a wood burning stove. Leila has taken a liking to this because for the first year of her life I yelled, "NO STICKS INSIDE LEILA!" as she ran through the door knowing the rules but couldn't resist. She says, "These are waaaay better than sticks. They're like sticks on steriods!" Below: Leila helping me make kindling.

We just returned from Whistler, B.C. It was a great weekend and will post pictures soon. I'll also post some pictures of Kate and the 20 week ultrasound as well as the gender....

MY time

2011-10-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are becoming a challenge. While Katie is at work I have the day off. It takes me all of an hour to get done with what I have to get done and then I find myself bored and struggling for stuff to do. So I walk. I exercise. I read articles on therapy. I read the Bible, other literature, or books on therapy. I was thinking yesterday; I should learn Spanish, or build a smoker out of a trash can, or plan out my next five years. But I don't. At least not all on Wednesdays. I get frequent stares from Leila when she hears "go" or "for a" or "walk." It doesn't even have to be a complete sentence. She basically does this (below). Sits on the loft and gets a birds eye view out all the windows just to make sure all is in order in the front yard.It's fall and the vacationers have gone home. The state park is all but empty of smells of fresh bacon, kids that just met riding bikes together and the silhouettes of kayakers 100 yards from shore. We've deserted the park too. Our adventures have taken to the fields.
Huge fields where farmers cut hay are separated by miles of skinny country roads unavailable to all except cyclists and walkers. We break from the roads and make our way through the fields. It's where the birds are. It's where the field mice play games with the dogs. It's were the coyotes roam at night and howel at dusk from pack to pack to let each other know we are there.
I don't take Jessie Owens at dusk for that very reason. He doesn't stand a chance against a coyote. I'm throwing this in for Bill and Colleen. Don't worry. He's quite smart and listening exceptionally well.
I don't hesitate to take Leila at dusk. She would enjoy an encounter with a coyote. When we walk sometimes I think about it. I almost, in a weird way, hope for a coyote to come at her. How cool would it be to get into a fight with a coyote. Maybe i'm weird. It's you, coyote and your dog fighting it out. No one else around to see it. I've been bit by plenty of dogs and let me tell you nothing hurts worse than a chihuahua.
Till then Jessie marks every blade of grass in the field and Leila is more concerned with clearing the fields of all wildlife except her and Jessie.
They run...fast.

Jessie knows how to work the camera.
I got a gopher.

Working together to get to something.

Jessie Owens trying the one ear up thing.
Most of you can't wait for the baby. Even more of you can't wait for the baby so I stop posting pictures of my dog. Haha. Until then this is what you get and what I do enjoy.

The baby is doing well. Katie is just over four months and getting her energy back. November 17th is our next doctor visit. It's the biggie- the twenty weeker which reveals the gender. We will find out. So put your guesses in now!

Changes and a place of our own...for now.

2011-10-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

Life on the commune is never dull. Shon, Katie's uncle, decided to buy over a thousand pounds (literally) of beef just in case the world ends I guess. Here they are making steak, hamburger, and cow candy bars. Tomorrow they will start making sour kraut -- an 11 day process. Meanwhile, Katie and I moved from grandma's basement to a fully furnished vacation rental across the way. It's also right next door to Katie's parent's. Here are a couple pics of our new "cabin."

It's two levels with three bedrooms and a bathroom.I've been getting this look a lot lately from Leila. It's the "how many times are we going to move" look.

We're excited to use the wood burning stove over the winter. It really makes this place cozy.

I don't often let USC grads stay in my home. But we made an exception for Rich and Marilyn Nicholson who are the parents of a great friend of mine. This is what happens and I questioned my decision after this!

Below, Caleb and Teanna visit us and the Nicholsons.

Just another window to look out. Leila broke the new backyard in this week while tangoing with a skunk. Let's just say it was hotel garage for her that night.

RRRRAAAAARRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!

2011-10-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

It's time to post this I guess. Katie is pregnant. The pics below are baby Lyon at 12 weeks. She is now 15 weeks. Katie is doing well. Healthy. Busy as ever. She actually did a half marathon last week as you know. Besides the constant fatigue and nausea (i've heard it's a sign of a good pregnancy) all is going well.Below, baby Lyon shows off five fingers and right arm. We are excited for our new arrival to come roaring into our world. New season and new challenges!
Pray for Katie. Pray for her health and the babies health. Pray for me. Pray that I serve Katie beyond what is expected. Pray for my leadership and support- so I can give my little family what they need.

After we camped we ran like a girl.

2011-10-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

This is all we wanted to do after the last two weekends. Leila placed a ball near Jessie. Jessie didn't seem to mind.
Last weekend Katie and two friends participated in the Run Like A Girl Half Marathon. Jeff, Ryan and I enjoyed good conversation while tracking our wives progress.

Katie, Becca, and Rhoda before the race.
Becca's son, Jack, crackin' a smile.
Katie, Becca and Rhoda.

Most of the course was trails.

Afterwards we went to Boundary Bay for some lunch. While we waited we checked out Bellingham's farmers market.

The weekend before we met up with a bunch of Washington friends for camping and hiking. Spokane, Yakima, Ellensburg, and Bellingham were represented.

We camped along Icicle Creek and the fall leaves were setting in.
Leila had a blast in the river. Some spots were a little deeper than others so it provided us with a couple laughs when she disappeared under water only to resurface with a surprised look on her face.
Leavenworth is just around the corner and lucky for us the fall festival was going on.

We had great food again.
Today I am packing up our belongings and preparing to move into a rental for a couple months. It is a summer "cabin" so we will need to move out before next summer but it's nice to have a cheap place to live for the mean time.

Whew boy holy cow!

2011-09-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

"I'm prepared" I told myself as I walked into the testing center. The lady greeted me without a smile and asked for my drivers license. I took my seat in the waiting area with two other people. "What test are you taking?" the guy next to me asked. I gave him the shortest answer possible in an attempt to communicate my lack of desire to talk with him at that moment. He was obviously nervous. He rested his head on his hands and looked at the ground. I did my best to avoid his contagious attitude. For another moment I stared out the window at the blue sky. The sun reflected off a car and into my eyes. I stared into the suns refection because I knew I would be in a windowless room for a good five hours soon enough. My stare was broken after the second call from the smile free lady. Sun and mean people- I thought of California. "Would you like to start early?" Yes. I got up and I tapped the guy on the shoulder to break his nervous fixation. "You got this," I said. He thanked me. I was fingerprinted, metal detected and everything except cavity searched.

I knew the first ten answers. Thank you Jesus. I can do this! I suppressed my excitement and worked through the first section. It got harder...harder....harder...and draining. "Choose the best answer." You see, that means there are two, if not three right answers. I don't know. I would pick both. Those are two identical answers. I guess...and guess...and guess again. I'm beginning to question if I studied hard enough. Should have studied more. You're not smart enough and you're going to take this test multiple times before you pass. STOPPIT! SCOTT! This feels no different than your tests at Loma Linda. Trust your studies, your diligence, your prayers, your friends and families prayers, your smarts, your common sense, trust your track record.

1:30. One minute and 30 seconds was what was left when I hit submit. I was prepared for this. I was warned. You will feel terrible. You will cry and go home to silence and numbness. You will begin studying because you KNOW you failed. It was a long 90 minute ride home. Silence was the last thing I wanted because it made me think. I wanted to drown out thoughts with words to people on the other end of the phone. Kate's uncle met me in Bellingham for a spur of the moment dinner and beer. Partial relief partial uneasiness.

" Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

I repeated this verse over and over throughout my studies, during the test and after the test. I worry not about the things of my life. I am provided for. If I fail I fail and I will ask for strength to pass it another day.

"Commit your work to the Lord and your plans will succeed." Proverbs 16:3.

Everything that I am is from the Lord. He gives and takes away. Nothing I do is of myself. It would be straight arrogance to think I passed that test on my own. Sure I studied hard and put in the time. I also committed every study session to Him. I only pray that I do that with every situation in my life- my money, my house, my relationships, my children and wife, the next step, etc.

Leila would quickly trot into the room during my study sessions. Almost in a peaceful frantic just to get my attention. "Pet me! It's time to pet me!" I had to. She layed at my feet constantly during my study sessions. Leaving only with the intention to reenter the room like it was the first time and saying "Pet me! It's time again!"

ACTIVE. Probably the best word ever. The second best word: SUPERSEDED. ACTIVE equals longer walks with Leila. ACTIVE equals reading something besides treatment for spinal cord injury. ACTIVE means paying off my student loans. ACTIVE means exercise. ACTIVE means our own place. ACTIVE means Katie gets her husband back after five years. Seriously, we have yet to spend more than three months of our marriage outside of school.

I'm tired. I was explaining it to my dad it's like the day after running a marathon. All you want to do is eat and sleep. I could not be more tired by 5pm. I feel like eating Thanksgiving dinner every night and then going straight to bed. But it's done. No more tests or late nights studying.

I saw her for the first time after finding out I passed. Her eyes were beautiful and glowing with memories from the past five years- yet tired and eager to make up lost time. "We did it" I whispered. "I've got your lunch made." She said. "You get to iron your own clothes." I smiled because she doesn't miss a beat. There was nothing more to say. It was finished. Oh. My. Goodness. It. Is. Finished!

Ladies and Gentlemen...Introducing Jessie Owens.

2011-09-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

A big dog in a little dogs body. That is the best way to describe this six year old schnauzer. We headed to Spokane for Labor day weekend to catch up with friends and say our farewells to Bill and Colleen who will be heading to Ethiopia for an extended period of time and Jessie will be vacationing in Birch Bay until they get back.

Leavenworth was our destination Friday night. The six hour drive to Spokane was a little much considering I worked until 530pm. Kate's uncle Kevin got us a room at the Icicle Inn (he does the sales and marketing for them).
Leavenworth is a Bavarian village tucked into the Cascade Mountains. It's full of pines, lakes and rivers, as well as Germans.

The scenery quickly changes once you head East from Leavenworth. Past the wine grape vineyards and apple orchards are wheat fields and small cute towns where everyone knows everyone.

I would have loved to take more pictures but we were anxious to get there. Waterville is a neat little town with nothing much in it but full of character.

Soon, along the horizon, come the pine trees. It's the way Spokane welcomes us every time as if to say, "Welcome Home!" The tire cover on the Jeep was fitting!
Babies! Babies everywhere! Jarrod and Jake share the holding duties during a night of pizza and catching up on Saturday.
The north side from Dan and Tiff's house.
We stayed at the Roe's home. Here we are at a little Italian bistro for Sunday afternoon lunch in Brown's Addition.

Sunday night Jeremy and Jason put together a cookout for us in Manito park.

Monday came and it was time to head back to Birch Bay. Jessie loves car rides but was a little confused with this change.

Thanks to Leila and Emma for accepting him into their pack right away and making him feel right at home! It was almost like Leila said, "I got this Scott. Jessie you're going to do just fine here with us. We get to run for miles!" We've done two nice runs to the fields and today was beach day.

Emma the water lab.

Eying something besides kibble.

If you haven't figured it out, I love my dogs. Great friends and even better stress relievers! I took my board exam this past Wednesday and will hear on Friday the results. My study sessions always began and ended with Leila at my feet. True support!

2011-08-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

You never know what you will find when the tide goes out. Here, a starfish. It was bright purple. The picture doesn't do it justice
Leila soaking wet after going head first after who knows what- crab, small fish or clams.
This whole week is the Northwest Washington Fair. It takes place directly across the street from where I work. Katie and I went on Tuesday night. I didn't take my good camera but you can see Mt. Baker on the right in the picture below.
Ruth, Rhoda, and Katie enjoying a moowich.
My graduation gift to myself. Some people buy cars, I bought a kayak.

I couldn't pass up this opportunity.

2011-08-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

Summer has consisted of BBQ's, boat rides and sunshine.

Leila not sure of the boat approaching the beach.

Last weekend we went to Yakima for a Wheeler family reunion. We had a great time catching up with family.

Mount Adams

Just another beautiful sunset on the bay.

Leila Update

2011-07-24T18:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry guys! I know it's been awhile but there has been so much going on here at the bay. My owners are finally home from their vacation. I still don't know where they go. I hope they weren't at the dog park or Petsmart without me. Anyway, it's summer here and there's 'gulls to chase, beach to explore and campers to visit.I absolutely love it when the tides out! It's the best part of my day. The great blue herons, seagulls, and kill-divers think they own the place but I have something to say about that. Have you ever had clams? I love clams and it's a blast digging in the sand. It's the only place i'm allowed and I love it.
I thought i'd post some pictures of me chasing some birds.

When i'm not chasing birds I chase the frisbee. It's awesome and I love it. I love it so much. Alpha Mcmaster Scott can throw it all kinds of ways but sometimes gets mad at me when I act like i'm chasing it and then don't and then he has to go into the water and get it cause I don't want to and he gets frustrated at me but he still loves me and it's all good. I love it.

Here's me with a clam. I'm not supposed to eat them but I love them.

I find eye contact to be the best way to get what I want. I just stare at the humans and they love me and I love them too because they give me food and I love them.
Yesterday we went on a boat ride. I was so scared at first! The waves were big and fierce.
There's my house in the distance. I didn't think I would ever see it again.
The worst part was the wind. My masters failed to give me sunglasses and that was terrible.
I eventually got used to it and made my way to the bow for a view of Mt. Baker.

We went to Sucia Island and I got to get off and see other dogs and smell island smells.

Mount Baker in the North East.
It was the first time i've ever seen sea lions and one looked to be about my age, one year old.

We did make it home and I returned to my favorite spot. Comfortable right by the couch with a view out the window.

This is my birthday month. I don't know the exact day cause I was a stray. But it's cool. Well, it's dinner time and I know there is bacon to go on their burgers!

Trading Pelicans for Eagles

2011-07-16T09:26:00.001-07:00

We are home. For two and a half weeks we have made memories to enjoy and anticipation for our next big adventure.I can't take credit for all of these photos. This is one of them! Emily, my sister, captures an osprey as it displays it's trophy and holds on tight as it returns to it's nest.

I also can't take credit for these. Wild horses about 19 miles north of the last paved road. There are about 14o wild horses still roaming on the Outer Banks.

At home, sunsets are easy to come by and don't require early mornings. Here, a sunrise over the Atlantic.

Historic Corolla is small but unique.
Currituck Light House is tall enough to be seen from the ocean or the inlet waters.

Biking, walking, tennis, frisbee on the beach gave endless options for fun times.
Corolla school house in historic Corolla.
On Thursday night out group let off fireworks because the 4th was interrupted by a thunderstorm. Here I experimented with the group and their glow sticks. I'm sure there's a better way to take these pictures.

If you come to the Outer Banks, Kill Devil custard and fries are a must.
Strange seagull and there black capped heads were everywhere.
Jellyfish.
Storms off shore of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Bodie Island Lighthouse is the first of three lighthouses on the southern half of the island. If you look closely in the picture below, it is absolutely pouring. Katie and I took a boardwalk out into a marshy area about 400 yards from our car. We could see a sheet of rain coming at us and we quickly ran for cover under a 10x10ft patio at the end of the board walk.

For those who don't know, Kitty Hawk N.C. is home to the first flight. Wilbur and Orville Wright, Ohio boys, completed the first successful flight in 1903. The sand and strong winds made it a perfect spot.

When we weren't exploring we were resting and enjoying family time.
This week I returned to work at Lynden Family Physical Therapy. This time i'm getting paid! The next couple weeks will consist of visitor from all over Washington, a Wheeler family reunion, and a huge hurtle...boards.

OBX part 2, through the eyes of Emmy

2011-07-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

It's nice to have a different perspective. Emily, my sister, is an excellent photographer and has a seasoned eye.

Ashley's little one about to be up to no good.

Keeping up with the Tour de France.

On the way to the beach.
Aaron, Emily's husband, and I enjoyed throwing the frisbee. Too bad we are too young to understand that we are too old to go that hard. Now we are both sidelined due to sore backs.

Shells everywhere.

Katie watching me do my sexy run.

Most of us...except Emmy of course and I'm somewhere out there.

Katie and Aunt Annie.

More ghost crabs.
It's warm enough here to swim whenever we want. "I think i'll go to the beach, then go home and swim in the pool and then back to the beach." Awesome!
Trying on the kids inner tubes.
Aunt Annie's watercolors.
I joined her and tried to watercolor the bike.

Each family was in charge of a nightly meal. Lot's of good food.
The whole dang fam.

Katie cozied right up with a book today.
A Joshua Tree here in North Carolina.
More to come...national seashores, lighthouses and wild horses.

From the Pacific to the Atlantic, OBX part 1

2011-07-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

It gets tiring when you are hiking, running on the beach, climbing sand dunes, throwing the frisbee and cruising on the beach cruiser. There is so much to do.
Walks have been a part of the morning routine. There are trails with neat trees, marshes, different wildlife or of course the ocean.

The road ends one mile north of our beach house. The beach becomes the road and obviously requires four wheel drive.

Pelicans are everywhere. There are plenty of sand crabs that find the curious tourists annoying and the occasional dolphin that makes an appearance just for our experience.

We've had thunderstorms every night. By the time we leave I will have experienced more thunderstorms this week than I have in the past 8 years.

My Aunt Annie is a gifted painter. She is perfectly content with her watercolors and the scenery. I even gave watercolor painting a shot.

Kate and I enjoyed an afternoon trip to Jockey's Ridge State Park. It is home to the East coasts largest sand dunes.

That's me at the top of the hill ready to run down.

Tomorrow we head to Cape Hatteras and the Wright Brother's National Monument.

Washington D.C.

2011-07-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning we headed to North Carolina but first had to stop in D.C. to visit a couple museums and break up the 12 hour drive.Group shot on the mall.
We visited the Smithsonian's Natural History museum.

I liked it's ears.

Nick wanted to touch the Washington Monument so we did the best we could.
It's sharp at top.

We visited the Korean War and Vietnam War Memorial.

It's been a great trip so far. Expect some picks later this week of lightning storms, storks, crabs and the East's largest sand dune.

Back where I come from

2011-07-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

Part of me feared what I was going to see when we landed in Cleveland. Only slight embarrassment as mom and dan greeted us with this sign.
I was really looking forward to the grand tour of the backyard. Mom and Dan do such a good job keeping it up and always looking to plant something for a surprise the next spring.

There is no shortage of life as squirrels, colorful birds, deer and the occasional coyote call the yard their playground.

Dinners on the patio are a must.
Katie caught in the act...stealing off my plate!

I brought home my regalia so the rest of the family could see and get photos.

Leave it to mom to announce to the neighborhood as she posted this sign on the garage door.
With much hard work from Mom, Dan, Kate, Emily and Aaron, and many more, my graduation party was great. Thanks to you all for blessing me!

The patio was decorated with photos and trinkets from past years. My favorite was my bobble head doll with my 4th grade picture.

Nothing like a friendly afternoon game of Jarts, the game that was outlawed due to too many picnic injuries and no longer sold.
Everyone who visits gets a picture by the outhouse. Emily and Aaron, who are seasoned pros with pictures by the outhouse.

The next destination is Washington, D.C. for a day and then to Outer Banks, NC. I'll post D.C pictures midweek. Until then, it's back to enjoying time with the family and the beach!

SPO~KAN~E

2011-06-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Find me another city with class V rapids smack dab in the downtown of the city. Our two week adventure began with a 4 day visit to Spokane to catch up with good friends and relive some good memories.

Our Spokane "parents" Bill and Coleen let us stay at their place (they would be mad if we stayed anywhere else! :) ) We enjoyed dinner at the Downriver Grill before taking a stroll downtown to see the water.

Friday morning we drove two hours to the Idaho/Montana border and took on the Route of the Hiawatha trail. I've blogged about it before about two years ago but this time Katie was able to go and it was early summer before the leaves change. There was even snow still on the mountains!
We joined up with our Califriends Jeff and Rae who were in town for Ironman. Jeff was competing. Yes, he is crazy and loves his wife enough to go on a 14 mile mountain bike ride before the ironman race.
The trail contains 10 tunnels and 7 trestle bridges in the 14 mile stretch. One tunnel is 1.6 miles long and requires headlamps.
Coming out of a tunnel.
The water was running heavy due to the increase in rain this year.
I have some video from the Hiawatha Railroad that I'll post later. This post comes from a coffee shop in Ohio. Those pictures will be posted early next week from Outer Banks North Carolina. Oh, and i've gotten plenty of requests for a Leila update. Seriously, people she's a dog! She agreed but will have to wait until we return. Those paws don't handle the keyboard well.

California...It's a wrap!

2011-06-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

After Portland and the Redwoods of Northern California the hills turned brown and the clouds gave way to bright blue sky. We arrived to the Bouma's household just in time for dinner.
We had some time to kill before the closing festivities began. We went to Disneyland one last time and had to get a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge outside California Adventure since it was too cloudy the week before in San Fransisco.

Thursday morning Dad and Cheryl arrived from Ohio and we had plenty planned. We hiked Ice House Canyon toward Mount Baldy.
The trail's river was running heavy thanks to the extra snow fall this winter. That sounds like a joke when I look at these pictures. There really was a lot of water I swear! There was also a few families of Sequoia standing tall and more than enough gnats to make you want to turn around.

From Left: Me, Katie, Curt, Jody and Luke, Cheryl and Dad.

Katie, Jody and Raelene before my graduation dinner. Thank you ladies for making a great meal!

One last meal with my classmates before the White Coat Ceremony and Graduation.

Thursday night was great! It was the physical therapy students alone being celebrated without the other professions. This is my class, 68 of us.

Hector, Angela, Mamiko, Stacy, Michelle and I before the White Coat Ceremony.

I somehow managed to win two awards. One for excellent clinical performance and another for general interest in the physical therapy profession and community activities (below).

Here is the one who made it all happen. My beautiful wife who supported me through long nights of studying. As well as studying through meals and sacrificing time with her for the hope to pass what seemed to be impossible exams. She made the most of it by learning new recipes and investing in the womens ministry at our church.

My parents with Katie and I following graduation. IT'S DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OVER!!!!! FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The journey is over. Another season come and gone. Mount Shasta wished us well and sent us off with a full view.
Occasionally, I stop what I am doing and am reminded that school is over. June 12, the day I hoped for during late night of studying with heavy eyelids is now a day in the past. It is mine- an education that can't be taken or failed. It is one of my proudest memories. But I came home from California with more than just an expensive piece of paper. I came home with a deeper love for my wife, a wife that is more beautiful than the day we married. I came home with memories of new friends where we shared new adventures together. I grew up. Oh yeah, and I came home with the coolest freakin' dog in the world!

The drive south

2011-06-07T17:08:00.001-07:00

These pictures are backwards. Today is Thursday. Tonight is the white coat ceremony, tomorrow is hiking, Saturday is a graduation party, and Sunday is one of my top five life moments...graduation. It's 5:30am right now and I can't sleep. So I thought i'd finish this up before heading into Loma Linda for a crash course on the up coming festivities. Below is probably the worst photo of the Golden Gate Bridge i've ever seen. We didn't have time to cross it (plus there's a fee) and the fog was bad but now we can say we saw it.
We stopped by Redwoods National Park in Northern California for the morning. The trees are huge!

The strange nodule on the tree above is a seedling for a future tree.

This is where President Nixon dedicated the park. It's about a mile in on the hike we did.

The Northern California coast- beautiful but unswimable due to the dangerous tide.

Before California came Oregon and Portland was where we stayed our first night.
We met up with Paul and Kasey. Kasey was a roommate of Kate's while in Spokane. They let us crash at their place but before we enjoyed good conversation at Cascade Brew house where we tried different types of Sour Beers. I can see where they are going with the sour beer thing but not my favorite.
Portland is by far the weirdest city I have ever been to. Hippies, people running down the street trying to fly a miniature kite on a 4 inch string, theater plays in the middle of the street and so much more can be seen here.
Before we left Washington we had a thank you party for Lynden Family Physical Therapy.

Over 50 people came and almost half were kids.
I'm grateful for family. It was a part that was supposed to be hosted by me but my hours at work made it difficult to get done what needed to be done. Kate's mom and dad, uncles, aunts, grandparents, cousins all pitched in throughout the week to make it happen.
Steve and Robin, the clinic owners are generous folks. These were the prizes for winning the balloon toss.

Camping and Racing.

2011-05-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

It's memorial day today and I am grateful. My brother has been in the Army for long enough and we are ready for him to come home. Praise God he is almost done! That being said we had a great time this past weekend camping, biking, hiking, eating and waltzing around downtown Bellingham but I couldn't help think of David often this week. We have freedom to explore such beautiful country!

Deception Pass is a beautiful place. It connects Whidbey Island and Anacortes. We camped nearby at Bay View State Park. I didn't manage to get many pictures of the campsites. I must admit I am a poor people picture taker.It was cold at night. Leila wrapped herself up to stay warm. And when she got too cold...

She kicked me out of my spot.

Our drive home took us on Chuckanut Drive, one of the most beautiful drives in the state.

We stopped in Bellingham to watch the Ski to Sea race. It starts up on Mt. Baker and over the course many hours ends at the port of Bellingham.
It begins with Cross Country Skiing, continues with downhill ski, then road biking which passes off to running, then canoeing, mountain biking and finally finishes with kayaking across the bay.
We watched a bit of the end and the mountain bike/ kayak transition.
We don't know this guy but he was happy. I guess he didn't see the 1.5-2 foot waves and 20 mile per hour wind he was going to have to deal with.
The final leg waiting to get in the water.
This week is the last week of my internship. We leave Saturday for California and Graduation! It's been a long time coming and I cannot wait to get that paper in my hand. June will be an exciting month for us. Lots of trips and fun to come!

TriBerry Triathlon

2011-05-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

I did my first triathlon of the year two weekends ago. I wasn't sure how I was going to do considering I haven't done one since before physical therapy school.

I didn't push myself knowing I was going to have to walk the next day. That's me on the far left in the pool. It's my second triathlon with a pool swim. It doesn't give you the whole experience without a lake swim but it was still fun.
Transition from swim to bike.

Finishing the bike with a new friend, Reed, who I rode next to from miles 5 to 15. Nice to meet people I can ride with that live in the area.

Transition from bike to run.

Leila wanted to run with me. I was very close to agreeing.
That's me finishing.

We Hike.

2011-05-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

Blue Herrons come out at low tide to prey on small fish. Low tide happens around 1pm right now and it adds a new dimension to what you can explore.

Our pup loves the beach. The other day I led her out onto a sandbar and let her loose. I was a little hesitant since she still possesses everything a puppy has to offer but had my running shoes on just in case. She did great.
Chasing seagulls, getting her first run through open water, and the mistake of lapping up salt water were all experienced for the first time.
There is a trail in the state park that leads you into dense forest with lots of different animals and plant species.

No sunsets look alike and because of the rain and constant clouds it keeps you guessing what you are going to get that night.

Check out the white line in the middle of the picture. It was the weirdest thing. It spanned the entire length of the water's horizon.

Getting her vitamin D.
I did a triathlon today. Ben, Kate's brother took some picks. I'll post those soon.

Everyday at the Bay. Some Pics

2011-05-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

No day at the bay is the same, but there are consistencies- 30 minute walks through the park, breaks in the clouds, ping pong, dinners together, and squawking eagles and seagulls.

Leila pointing at a squirrel. I honestly think it was the first squirrel she'd ever seen. The other day she almost jumped out the truck window to get to a deer. Lot's of new adventures for her.

To the Northwest, view from the state park on one of our walks, the Canadian Range.
Leila hosting family.
Four leaf clovers everywhere!
A view from Semi-ah-moo, a spit eight miles north.

A little video of what once was...

We. Are. Bloomies!

2011-05-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we headed to Spokane for the annual Lilac Bloomsday race. It's the world's largest 12k race. This was my third effort and Kate's fourth. She continues to improve her time and mine has slipped every year. We had a great time with friends enjoying good fellowship and sunshine.(Let's keep telling everyone it always rains in Washington!)

Pre-race tradition includes throwing the warmer layers into the surrounding trees to benefit those in need.

It's a hilly course that includes "doomsday" hill, a grueling one mile climb at mile six.

Downtown Spokane is a wonderful place! Family owned restaurants, parks, raging rapids, and oddities such as this giant red wagon make it a fun place.
Sharing in some much needed brother time with my closes friends.
Followed by a walk to Manito Park for some football toss. Leave it to Katie to capture the one moment I took it in my man parts.
Later that night we visited with some of our favorite people. Bill and Colleen Roe have been a huge blessing to us in the five years we have been married. This is a view of the northeastern part of the city from their condo.

Grace Elizabeth, the Roe's 10 year old beagle.

Week three and feelin' at home.

2011-04-17T17:59:00.000-07:00

My drive to work is completely different from the 91 freeway in Los Angeles. Farm houses, mountains (big one's!), occasional frost, seagulls, and...absolutely no traffic! I took these photos on the way to work and after giving them a second look, saw the beauty in them.

The sun rises early here. It also sets late.

Raspberries. It's early but I can't wait to do the drive by and grab me a handful of these!
I was invited to a men's retreat by Jay, my father-in-law. It was up in the mountains of Mt. Baker on Silverlake. We enjoyed frisbee, shooting competitions, and great discussion lead by Tim, the pastor at Birch Bay Community Church.
Morning fog that managed to hold the sun off most of the day.

Moss covers everything thanks to the high rain levels and heavily forested areas.

We only got to shoot .22 caliber rifles but it was still a blast. That's a lie, the shotguns came out and the clay pigeons were left shattered and Jay one the shotgun tournament.

I haven't quite adapted to the weather yet. Yes, I hit the target but I was absolutely freezing the whole time.
The next couple weeks will consist of a 12k race in Spokane, jet planes to possible employers, and soakin' up the bay.

Settling in.

2011-04-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

Much apologies for not writing earlier. We have been here two weeks now and are finally settling in. It's plenty of "Where is this?" and "Where is that?" Lets get caught up on some things for now.

We are staying in the walk out basement of Katie's grandparents home. It's a great spot!

Our view overlooks the ocean. I'm sure i'll post plenty of better pictures over the next several months but for now these will give you a visual.

A good friend of mine, Joel, and I are blessed to have an extended reunion. He live next door and it's nice to spend a couple minutes here and there with him. We visited Boundary Bay, a local Bellingham brewery who's known for there IPA.

Leila still leaves her toys on windowsills.

We got her some protective footwear. The beach is full of sharp barnacles. Yes, it seems ridiculous to have a dog where boots but it's worth it...the video is worth it!

I thought i'd throw some "final days" pics in here. We went to Disneyland during our last two days in California.

Mr. Incredible standing with some guy in red.
Roller coaster video.

The transition.

2011-03-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

The last week was a blur. I feel as if it was busier than the whole three years combined. Packing boxes, hugs and goodbyes, stress were the central activities that were surrounded by trips to Disney and homemade dinners with friends.

Jason came and visited. Jason was there at the beginning, at the midpoint and at the end of our time in California.
On Saturday we made our way to Temecula for wine tasting. We visited Southcoast wineries and Jen was our sommelier. (Half of you will go look that word up now.) Katie knows Jen from a previous party where she was the server. Jen remembered Kate and our five wine tastes turned into 15-20 tastes.
Katie and Jason guarding our precious counter space.
Afterward, the four of us made our way to another winery for lunch...with water.
Two beautiful women, Katie and Raelene. Rae has been the closest of friends for Katie. Marathons, meals i've been lucky to share, and countless memories that make us smile have been centered around these two. If only Jody was present, the picture would be complete.

Good food: spinach and cheese filled ravioli over roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, basil on sourdough bread.
A good friend of mine, Daniel, brought me a going away gift. Pictured below, Jason holding a "growler" of Hangar 24 Orange Wheat. What a great going away gift!
Our late nights didn't go over well with Leila. She found ways to shut the light out.
Leila having a moment and having her final goodbyes with her backyard.
The truck has arrived...
The serious packing has begun...
We purchased ten feet of space on the truck. The rest of the truck would soon get filled with product. We packed it tight because every foot we didn't use we got $101 back.

This was one of the few times Leila popped her head up on the trip. You wouldn't have known she was there if it wasn't for the rattle of the cage.
She really just wanted to sleep. Katie woke her up to take this one.
Shasta pass brought snow. It was all bark and no bite. We searched high and low to find chains with minimal luck until finally!

We have arrived! Our view from the backyard.
Below, the wallet buster.
Leila settled right in. Emma taught her the Washington ways with a little nip to put her in her place (a well deserved one!) and Mia to the right, a 4 month old rotty.

We have been accepted with open arms here. (as if we wouldn't) Leila has also been accepted. Though ornery and quite confused at times she manages to get her play time and run time. Life only gets better at the bay.

Disney at Night

2011-03-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Date night at Disney. As much as I complain about living down here I know Kate and I will have great memories. This has been a season of growth for us. It has been difficult in more ways than just academically. We've had to resolve issues and challenges without family, friends and old comforts.

I love my wife. Someone said to me: "Graduate school can destroy your marriage." Yes, it can, but it can also make your marriage so much stronger. For the last three years Katie has made my lunches, ironed my clothes, accepted my late nights in the anatomy lab, listened to my complaints, put up with my selfishness and supported me even though she knew I was wrong.
The last couple weeks have been relaxing. Amongst the boxes marked with their selected destination and bare walls, Katie and I have found time to enjoy each other and make the most of our final days here in California.

Trader Jose's as we call it down here, provided us with a wonderful meal. A paper bag holding our sandwhiches, our season passes, and a table by the ducks is all we needed for a great evening. One ride was all we managed to do but it was Katie and I enjoying time together with only one thing on our mind.....

BEATING THE CRAP OUT OF THE OTHER ONE ON THE WORLD'S BEST RIDE!

Buzz Light year is the neatest ride. 4D with competition. She grabs my shirt as if to kiss me and says in all seriousness, "You know, I'm going to destroy you."
Tonight, tonight my friends, I have the last laugh. Yes, the last round consisted of a string of accuracy like none other and Alpha Male Master Scott pulling off the upset.
As I sit here and watch my dog destroy her recently purchased toy, I ponder what it means to give and not receive. She seems so ungrateful. I just bought that and all you want to do is chew it and destroy it. She looks up at me and just knows. She says, "thanks for the training, thanks for the walks and the trips to the dog park, thanks for giving me a bath when I had flees, thanks for giving me a bed and warm house and food to eat at night." Even if I don't feel loved by her, she is a lesson of love. Sounds crazy and if you don't have a dog you really think i'm nuts. That's ok. Leila is teaching me to love unconditionally. She says, " I was a stray and you gave me a good life... I love you." To my family and friends: Is there anything better than that?!
People watching...
A poor man's made rich when his favorite breakfast beverage is orange juice. We have the sweetest fruit this year. Katie, once again blessing me, makes fresh squeezed orange juice for the week.
Below is a video of Leila at play. She is a great joy and a wonderful prelude to our first child.

I'm finding pleasure in the simple things. With no cable to waste my time and no money to spend on anything but bills, moving, and a distant trip to the other side of the country I find myself learning more than I learned in the last three years.

Nothing New

2011-03-01T10:35:00.000-08:00

Under three weeks left. Yes, that is all the time left for us in California. This is the calm before the storm. Until then all you get are pictures of the pup and random photos I deem worthy of posting.

I wonder about Leila. She sees the packing and I hear stories about how stressful moving can be for a dog. She seems fine and oblivious to the whole thing. She's happy as long as we are with her.

She likes her bed by the back door...where the sun is.

The other day I caught her carrying this 2lb weight around. I asked her if she liked working out and she said yes.

Katie has been experimenting with what we have left over in the cupboards. School is winding down and the funds are getting tight and Katie truly makes the most of what we have lying around. Below is a giant cookie that she baked in this cast iron skillet. It. Was. Awesome.

Below is a video of Digger McDiggerson. I always ask Leila if she saw any other dogs digging for gophers in our back yard. And with her nostrils compacted with dirt and her snout as brown as can be she says, "No, that was another dog."

More to come. Things are about to get crazy!

Q and A with Leila.

2011-02-19T15:06:00.000-08:00

You asked, so I decided to post again. This time with my master and over a bowl of cold water and rawhide sticks. So let's get started!

Alpha Male Master Scott (this would be my rap name by the way.): "Leila, what do you consider your best physical quality?"

Leila: "Well, besides being incredibly good looking, I would have to say my colors. I have many colors on my coat and my pawnails each have a different color. Thanks for asking."

Alpha Male Master Scott: "What do you do to pass the time? If your owners are busy eating or cleaning. What do you do with your free time?"

Leila: "Well, I have lots of free time! My only commitments are daily walks to keep my masters calm so they don't chew or dig and daily dog training. I love to hunt anything in the yard including moles, cats, grasshoppers and crickets, leaves that may blow due to wind, and shadows. Other than that, I keep an eye on the house and notify the whole neighborhood when someone is at the door. Oh, and I sleep...a lot."

Alpha Male Master Scott: "Do you have a lot of toys?"

Leila: "Ooohhh yeah. I have to admit, i'm spoiled. But it's good for me. I like to have a choice. It keeps me interested and I shred them real quick. Purses, shoes and toys- life's good! I also have certain spots for my toys. Any ball usually rests on this window. I keep them here when I'm doing something else. I like to keep some toys in doorways and some right were my master's stand most. Other toys have a special place in my heart and rarely make it out of my house so I can have them with me when i'm by myself. Rodriguez is one of my favorites but he needs surgery cause I tore him to shreds. Hey, he's named after a Michigan coach. It's a good thing!" Alpha Male Master Scott: "Leila, do you consider yourself smart? Do you get bored with the nonsense of other dogs."

Leila: "Oh, I love to play but the dog park has some bitches. And I don't mean "female" dog. Some dogs are brilliant but I would say i'm the smartest, and prettiest, dog there every time I go...well...of all the dogs that have ever been there, ever."

AMMS: "That's an awfully confident statement."

Leila: "Well, that's what it takes in this dog eat dog world."

AMMS: "Are you full grown?"

Leila: "Just about. I'm 50lbs and 10 of that are my ears."
AMMS: "So, what do you enjoy most about life?"

Leila: "Ummm, there are lots of things but there are a couple that stand out. One, I love to ride in the car. Two, I absolutely love a good belly rub. Three, my day has to start with waking up my master by licking his face or giving him a snotty nose press. Four, and probably the best, training. It's so much fun. Currently, my masters put all kinds of tasty treats around me and try to tempt me while I do tricks. I caught on quick and need a reminder from time to time."AMMS: "Do you have any nicknames?"

Leila: "Yes, quite a few actually. To name a few: Drama queen, Diva, Jackrabbit (cause my ears), Yoda (again...cause my ears), puppy, tank, girl, terrorist, lazy as#, and leiladodle.

AMMS: "Well, it's been fun Leila. We appreciate you taking the time out of your busy day to answer a few questions."

Leila: "Oh, anytime, I love attention."

Leila: "Thank you everyone for spending some time with me. Oh, and I just wanted you to know how much my masters love all of you. They miss you so much and are excited to see you soon. A quick shout out to my Ohio peeps, i'll meet you soon. Until then...bring on the rawhide!"

Our California days are numbered but...

2011-02-12T16:56:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago I had the flu. Well, it was more like a nasty fever. I was stuck on the couch and any movement wasn't worth the effort. Let me make it clear: Leila is not allowed on any furniture! And she is not a lap dog. It's not that we don't wish she wanted to sit next to us on the floor she just doesn't. She will lay on her bed or elsewhere. But when you are sick that's a different story. Leila broke the rules and made me feel a little better.

The other day we had a friend over and her three kids. These kids call me Mr. Lyon and that's kinda weird for me. I had the privileged of helping them hang their Christmas lights back in December and really, they just wanted to get on the roof.

Below, this is what you don't want to do. This says, "jump up for my hands!"

They wanted to be in the Leila's cage and our pup was a bit confused. She loves kids gets so excited when they are around. Our dog trainer says it's because they are both adolescents and she wants to play with them. I always get excited and nervous at the same time when kids arrive at the dog park. An opportunity to practice.

Even when she is resting she is watching. The dobe in her is intense. She does nothing with half effort. One minute she is half asleep the next she is destroying the cricket that made it's way into the house. We did have a bug problem but Leila made that her hobby. She truly is a watchdog.

Well, it's over. Katie did it! She ran her half marathon in 2:11! She expected 2:30. She started in a slower group and had to do a lot of maneuvering of other runners. This slowed her down a bit.

Katie ran it with Rae. They trained together almost everyday- 4 miles, 6 miles, 8 miles, 10 miles.

My classmate and friend Stacey also ran the race. She was the two hour pacer. I parked at her house in the morning and we road bikes to the race because traffic was so bad near the beach.

Kates group started in the 7000-7999 group. She is somewhere in there.

And their off!!
Below, mile three.
Stacey with the 2:00hr sign at mile 9.
Katie and Rae at mile 9. Still lookin' good!
The finishers. Daniel, Jeff, Rae and Katie. Daniel and Jeff did the full marathon. They all finished around the same time. They started way earlier.
Running along the Pacific Coast Highway next to the ocean.
With all the biking and photos I took trying to keep up with them I was almost just as tired.
Yesterday we had a yard sale. It was the strangest sale i've ever been a part of. We started at 730am and didn't get a single person til 10am. That was when we wanted to wrap it up. My neighbor and I talked most of the time. He was trying to sell a manual fishing boat thingy and changed his mind and said you will get more out of this in Washington than anyone down here. So he gave it to me. He also gave me the cargo box below. I was blown away! In almost three hours of trying to sell my stuff I made 20 cents (the guy didn't have 5 more cents...cheap a#@.) and gained a boat and storage carrier. Strange huh?!

Leila had a visitor. Leo. A Jack Russell Rat Terrier mix. He is fast! And Leila is top heavy and still growing into her legs. It was quite funny watching her try to take sharp corners with him.
One of Leila's bet qualities- she is sensitive to the other dogs size. With big dogs she stands upright but with smaller ones she will play at their level.

Give her a straight line though and she will catch you.

And Caught.

Leo wiped her out.

Life slows down the next couple weeks. No major plans. Just packing and putting the finishing touches on our three year California trip. In the end for those of you who don't keep up with your blogs I can honestly say it is worth it. I have our whole time here documented.

Lyon Pride!

2011-01-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

Last sunday Leila graduated from beginner puppy training. She was one of 6 dogs in our class (Two of which did not graduate.) and obviously the best looking. She stood proud and serious in her cap as if to say "Bring it on!".

Next on the list, intermediate training. The class will focus on accomplishing tasks with distraction.

We meet at Redrock Canyon

2011-01-09T09:50:00.000-08:00

The parents made a quick trip to Las Vegas for a conference so we decided to make the 3+ hour trip northeast for some hiking. We discovered Redrock Canyon just outside of the city.
Inside the visitors center, a window with a view that looked like a panoramic photo.

Where's Waldo? Can you find Cheryl in the photo below?
Dad discovered this squeeze.

We took the Calico Tanks trail; an out and back that was a challenging two miles.

There was a dusting or what was the remnants of snowfall that was surviving thanks to the suns lack of height during the day.

The end of the trail was well worth it. A frozen watering hole and the temptation to throw watermelon size rocks to break the ice. Beyond the trail just a bit further was this nice view of the city.

Our second hike of the day was cut short. Daylight was running thin and the drive home was in the back of our minds.
The trail winded back into this canyon but we only made it to the base and turned back.
I smelled a sweet smell. The kind of smell that brings back old good memories. My mind went to cool nights in Spokane. Cool breezes in Leavenworth hiking the icicle creek trail. I attributed it to the few juniper trees but it was something else- water. I forgot the smell of water. There is something special about the smell of cold, pine, dust and water all rolled into one. A smell only the great West can deliver.

The exit of the park gave us a good farewell and revealed all it's colors.
I am reminded of our great country. There is always more to explore.

Visitors from the North...

2011-01-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

A nice visit from family is always welcome. With Christmas vacation amongst us and families enjoying the exchange of gifts and dinners together Katie and I got to celebrate with family this year. School breaks are nice but way too long. I become bored and eager to get going again. So bring on the visitors.Above, Katie, Kevin and Isaac and I stand in line for "Soarin' over California" at California Adventure Park. Below, Katie braved the front seat of Splash Mountain where the front always gets the most water. We went two days. The first, sun and warm temperatures brought the park to full capacity. It made for long lines and frustrated people. We ventured again Wednesday. Rain and wind but short lines made for a fuller day.
Our days were full and included a trip to Joshua Tree National Park. If you haven't already guessed based on previous posts, I take everyone here. It is becoming one of my favorite places to visit in Southern California.
Every time I visit it looks different. I know, it's the desert but wind, water and the elements make it an ever changing place. Below, Kevin snapped a shot of the many windmills just west of Palm Springs on our way to the park.
Kevin's panoramic stitch of Barker Dam.
It was chilly; four layers, a hat and hood.
I told Isaac he would love this place. He has an unbelievable imagination and he turned the rocks into a giant jungle gym and helped me discover new places in the park.
I love looking for different photographic shots. I would almost prefer having a close up lens than a panoramic lens when shooting here.

Aunt Teresa and the others enjoying the endless rocks on the Barker Dam hike.

Above, Kevin waves as he returns from his tight rope walk across the dam.
Sunsets make for nice pics and with the addition of clouds even better. Some think the Joshua Tree is ugly. I still can't quite figure them out myself.
Below, snow and clouds mix as the winds picked up on the mountain tops at sundown.

Tomorrow I start my second affiliation. I have mixed emotions and can't wait till March...the end of our season here in California!

The holidays...

2010-12-26T12:14:00.000-08:00

Kitchens have never smelled so good. Alone they are great but together when they cook, I want a place at the table.
It's Christmas time and get togethers are a must. It wouldn't be complete without a party at the Bouma's.

Jeff attended a bike fitting course in Seattle so I got to watch and learn from another PT as we adjusted Curt on his bike.

The ladies always go all out. This was my place setting.
Dinner in our sweaters.
If you haven't figured it out we had an ugly Christmas sweater party at Curt and Jody's home. The white elephant gift exchange was a hoot. Jody ended up with this wonderful piece of artwork.
Luke and Cole playing santa on Christmas eve.
I couldn't resist this five dollar bone that smelled like peanut butter. It's Leila's favorite flavor and her eyes say how excited she was to get her teeth on it!
You probably heard about all the rain we have been getting down here. It is overwhelming and especially when you have a puppy who doesn't really get why you aren't taking her for walks.
Unfortunately Leila was still on house rest from her spading. Otherwise she would have loved messing around in the pond that found itself in our back yard.
White water rafting anyone. This is mountain view road turned river. Check out Youtube and all the videos of Loma Linda and the massive storms.

Mud mud mud! This road is now a dirt road.

Below is a video of Leila in action. Check out her style.

We frequent this dog park. Looks like we won't be going there for awhile after the rain brought down this tree and crushed the fence.
Tomorrow night Katie's aunt, uncle and cousins arrive. Disney, Joshua Tree and other adventures are in the mix for this Christmas vacation.

A note from Leila...

2010-12-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys! It's me Leila. I wanted to formally introduce myself and now that I have some time I thought I'd try this blogging thing. Things are crazy here. I mean, there are always shoes to chew and holes to dig, that's a given, but I've got lots of other activities on my plate.
So, some of you have been asking about me and about my interests and I thought I'd fill you in. I already mentioned I love to chew and dig and I am learning quickly what I can and can't chew. There is always something new. I know if I can chew or not cause my owners get crazy eyes or say "good girl". I am learning English because it's not my first language...Spanish is. My other interests are sleeping, pooping in every possible spot in the yard, hide and go seek, sight seeing from the front window, socializing at the dog park, notifying my owners with a couple barks if any moving object is 50 yards from the house and snuggling.I'm working on my ears. I still can't keep them standing! It's the hardest thing to do if I'm not thinking about it.

I've been loving my doggy training! I catch on real quick and get to go to this real big blue place with a guy who has an endless supply of treats in his pocket. It's awesome! There's other dogs there too! I love playing with all sorts of dogs. I mean, check out my eye contact. It's perfect. To date I know about 15 commands. I learned "No!" the quickest. Most recently I've learned "vicious/bark" but that is still new and will probably have to wait until my surgery heals before I can continue with that one. I love to shake! In fact I love it so much I do it before people ask. Sometimes I get so excited that I do it with both paws and meet my new friend face to face. My masters don't like that very much so I don't do it any more.
People think i'm cute but some think I am aggressive and sad looking. I think they are ugly and I feel bad for there overprotective owners. I mean I am a girl and it isn't very ladylike to bite and growl.
I always wondered what was beyond the great wall. So many sticks to chew, new smells and uncharted territory. Could you imagine all the unmarked trees!
Yes! That is me jumping off the great wall. I discovered I was able to jump up there two weeks ago when I mustered up enough steam to go after a cat. I absolutely hate cats.
The other day my owner, the uglier tall one, pulled out this claw like thing and began moving around the leaves with it. It was awesome! I loved chasing that thing. He put it away though when all the leaves were gone.

So, the other day my owner took me to "the terrible place." I hate that place and just know it when we are going there. There is this silver table and a lady that pokes me with things. I trust him but the other day was the worst. He left me there with poky lady and she made me fall asleep. I woke up sore and in pain. I was so happy to see my master later that day but he made me where this stupid thing on my head.
Lets recap the worst day of my life: left me at "the terrible place" with poky lady, left me in a world of pain and embarrassed me with this satellite dish thing on my head. I mean, could you imagine walking around the dog park in this thing! How embarrassing!
I also had my dewclaws removed. They were awkward and not very good looking. I tried to ask for pink tape but they gave me green. These people have no fashion!

Well, it's been nice meeting you. I will write from time to time. Until then...Chow!

Too Kool for Skool

2010-12-18T15:55:00.000-08:00

Our class was split in two. 60+ students cut in half and what happens? You develop closer friendships with those in your room. These were the final days. 3 years of classroom, stress, labs, tests and fun all just about done. But not yet.

Disney is a positive. When people ask where I went to PT school I will smile at the fact that I frequented Disneyland, the beach, Palm Springs and the desert.

The last eight weeks was basically lab. Lots of photos and laughs were attained. Most of these photos are of people I spent most of my educational experience with. Below, Hector and I, laughing our way through a treatment. I spent most of my three years working on Hector as well as others but Hector and I always appreciated each others constructive criticism.
Mike, Byron, and Joe.
Our final PT party consisted of a photobooth.Katie ready to leave;I'm still dancing.

Below, Mike inflicting pain.
Dinner at BJ's Brewhouse. It's an asian sandwich.
We had the dorm dwellers over for a good meal. Mamiko, our Japanese classmate, requested Mexican food for dinner. In the end, they got a home cooked meal, Mamiko got her mexican food and Hector was impressed with our ability to cook Mexican food.

The infamous peace sign. This is how it is currently being taken in pictures.

Hector assessing Rogilio.
Completing a nerve tension test on Hector.

Now the memories are made and can be remembered. Thanks guys...it's been fun!