We arrived in Portland, OR first and spent a few hours exploring downtown...Texans, if you think Austin is weird, go to Portland, they've got you beat for sure. Chris also had the chance to meet Grandma and Grandpa Tonissen at dinner our first night. The next day we enjoyed a day of exploring in Eugene at the University of Oregon. First stop, Heyward Field, where the Bill Bowerman (co-creator of Nike running shoes) statue stands. However, we were one day late, because the stadium was closed for resurfacing. I don't think I've ever seen such a disappointed look on Chris' face, I even contemplated walking away so Chris could jump the fence. BUT...God definitely knows the desires of our hearts (even small ones) and shortly after knocking on the door to the field, the cleaning lady turned the corner and allowed us onto the field as long as we promised not to walk on her mopped floors. Basically, we had the field and statue all to ourselves!!
Second stop, a goose-hunt to find the Steve Prefontaine memorial. We only knew a general area, so we drove, and drove, and drove...and then we saw it, a sign that pointed us in the right direction as we were leaving, what a blessing. Our third stop was running Pre's trail at Alton Baker Park where many famous runners and olympians have tread. Chris considers it the best trail he's ever run...checkout the pics. The rest of the day we enjoyed some much needed rest, delicious food, and relaxation. We loved Oregon, the weather, the mountains, the beauty!
In order to see more of the country, Chris and I drove down to Grass Valley to spend Christmas with the Tonissen/Morrish family. We surprised Mom and Dad by arriving a little earlier than expected and had a great few days to just hangout before Christmas. One of the greatest gifts I received was quality time with Melissa, Charlie and Jack...I have missed them a lot this year and it's a joy to watch them and learn from them as parents. During the week our activities included time with baby Jack, Christmas lights in Roseville, gingerbread creations, Cornish Christmas, quality family time, and a play date with Hannah and Elijah. One of my favorite parts of Christmas is having the entire family together (we missed Stefanie, Robert and the kids)! Especially, getting to surprise everyone with the news that we are having a baby girl!!! Chris and I are excited, blessed and praise God for His incredible gift to us.
Christmas day began with a delicious breakfast of Mom's homemade quiche (yummy!!!) and a fun-filled day of worship, presents, visiting and games. Family time is so precious and I am thankful for the amazing family God has blessed us with on both sides. It is a joy to know we are loved, supported, and prayed for continually as God leads us to fulfill His purposes.
One other highlight of our trip was a photo shoot of pregnancy pics with Alan...we are so impressed with his ability, his heart, and thankful for him giving us his time. I put a few pics below, but for more you can checkout facebook.
Thanks for letting us share our journey with you and I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year celebration. We praise God for another year ahead and look forward to how we can be used by Him as parents and in ministry. Love to you all...the Millers
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| Pre's Memorial |
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| Bill Bowerman statue (standing on a waffle iron) |
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| Stockyard Ginger |
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| Packer Stadium |
