Our connection to our client families continues to humble us. This summer, we were welcomed into the homes of many of them. We celebrated graduations, toasted dream homes and shared in the loss of some dear friends. We continue to find gratitude in the special role our clients allow us to play in their lives.
In our continued efforts to support our community, we had two opportunities to that came about with Marion Polk Food Share this summer. One was by way of sponsoring and attending their annual dinner and auction, where Larry, Laurie, Brenna and Katherine all walked away winners. The other was through sponsorship and sweat equity on their Youth Farm. Sarah, Michelle and Brenna spent a few hours helping to harvest green beans, peppers and tomatillos. They welcome volunteers anytime, but particularly in this season of abundant harvest.
On the professional side, we expanded our knowledge of PERS through the Financial Planning Association, and soon after gave a topical presentation to local state employees. Behind the scenes, we’re working on a revamp of our office space. Next time you’re in, you’ll notice some fresh paint and new, locally sourced artwork.
After flying the friendly skies with travels to Colorado and California, Michelle has re-engaged with life in the Pacific NW. Beyond fielding client needs and scheduling meetings here at the office, she has begun her third year co-facilitating NAMI’s 11-week educational class for friends and family members supporting someone with a mental illness. She is also proud to be partnering with Salem Hospital and Willamette Heritage Center in coordinating events they will host later this year.
Over the summer, Sarah was able to travel within Oregon to Astoria, Crater Lake, Sisters, and Detroit Lake, plus take a road trip to Yellowstone National Park. She also relished time with a college friend who visited and time with one of Peter’s sisters, who joined them in their travels to Yellowstone. At home, Sarah and Peter are looking forward to enjoying their yard after a landscaping project is soon completed.
Katherine has spent a good portion of the last few months acclimating her puppy Quill to his new home. She and Quill enjoyed a long weekend at Clear Lake where they quickly learned that Quill is too big to be in mom’s kayak with her. Now that the pup is six months old, Katherine is finding it easier to re-engage in the community particularly the volunteer opportunities that she enjoys.
For reasons unclear, Brenna signed up for 5 races over the past three months. Training for and participating in them have kept her running 200+ miles. When not traveling by foot, airplanes took her to New York City, Washington DC and Montana, all allowing time with friends and family.
It was a busy quarter for Larry. Business took him to Florence, Bend/Sisters/Sunriver, Portland, and Coos Bay. This summer has been full of commitments to the fundraising committee for the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater, in addition to his service on the Illahe Hills Country Club finance committee. Aside from competing in a BBQ competition this summer, Laurie got her first ever hole-in-one playing in the Creekside Member/Guest golf tournament.
