PETERSEN: Vermont Chapter

graduation.

Posted in General with tags family, friends on August 18, 2011 by Missy

The day every medical student waits for . . .

GRADUATION!

Chase’s mom, stepdad and brother came out to see him march down the aisle of hardwood benches. By now, Chase has been a student for 21 years, I’d call that seasoned. However, on May 22nd this medical student’s long career in student-hood came to an end . . . finally. He walked lightly and his eyes sparkled brilliantly that day. The day couldn’t have been more beautiful. The temperature was comfortable and a kindly breeze carried the sweet smell of spring flowers through the town of Burlington.

A proud mom from humble beginnings.

Because we are who we are, we were running a little late for the graduation ceremony. That’s saying something because we had planned to be at the building almost two hours early. I dropped Chase and Enoch off at the door of the building where graduation would be held and parked the car with Tess. Thanks to family in town, we had our seats saved on the main level of the non-air conditioned building (rather than in the sweltering balcony). I was just stepping off the shuttle when I saw the graduates shuffling in in a single filed line. I stood at the entrance and waited for Chase so I could snap a photo.

So so hansom!

It was a pleasantly brief ceremony, which everyone appreciated. Students were called up, most families whooped and hollered, some blew horns, one even played a musical intro with a french horn as the student approached the stand, it was fanfare at it’s finest and we were all thrilled to be there. I found myself getting teary-eyed as I watched my dedicated, long-suffering husband approach the stand.

When his name was called and I watched the hood being placed over his head I wiped away my tears and felt my throat get all wabally like it does when I’m struck with emotion. Part of it was a swelling of pride for his hard work, part of it was relief to see the light at the end of our tunnel.

Here they are, the University of Vermont College of Medicine Graduates of 2011.

Can’t see Chase??? Take a closer look . . .

The whole day was filled with celebration.

I felt great love for our Heavenly Father for the blessings we have been given. We have such an amazing family, on both sides that at times it’s overwhelming.

Chase’s brother Jake was able to come out and be a part of it all. We don’t get to see that guy much, so it was wonderful having him in our home (despite the flight scheduling catastrophe, sure glad it worked out). Thanks for coming Jake.

I try to avoid the phrase, “so blessed,” as I feel it’s a taboo cliche, however, that’s exactly how I feel. Chase and I were raised in fortunate circumstances that brought us together. We have two funny little kids who, despite their moments, bring more joy and sunshine into our life than we could ever have imagined. We had no idea it could be so fun. We have made life-long friends who’s bond is as good as family’s. We have been enriched and enlightened by the people we have encountered and enter into our next phase of life (residency) with a little trepidation, but mostly excitement. To all those who’ve touched our lives, thank you. You will not be forgotten, you have left your imprint on our hearts and we are all the better for it.

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quinn.

Posted in General with tags death, family, grief on August 17, 2011 by Missy

In April we heard the bad news. We were at the UVM Student Family Easter Egg Hunt when Chase got the call. He disappeared for a while, but I thought nothing of it. Often when we’re at school functions he disappears as he catches up with his class mates. I was sitting in the lobby with the other families, watching Enoch chase and be chased by the other kids, enjoying a light-hearted conversation with one of the student’s spouse. I was thinking we should pack up when I looked up and saw Chase walking directly toward me with a somber look on his face. “Can I talk to you?”

“Yea, what’s up?” I ask with sincere concern.

“Let’s go in one of these rooms.”

Chase walked a little faster toward an empty room, I learned later it was to hide his emotion from the crowd. I looked at him as my heart began racing, “What’s the matter? You’re scaring me.” I say. Chase reveals terrible news. His youngest brother had passed away unexpectedly and tragically the night before. He burst into tears and we held each other for a while. “Oh no, oh no, oh no!” is all that came from my mouth.

We packed up and flew to Utah the day after Easter.

It was a beautiful funeral. . . and a crowded one. Quinn had friends from all over the area that came to remember him.

Obituary

Quinn C. Petersen 1987 ~ 2011 Beloved son, brother, grandson and uncle, Quinn Clifton Petersen, 24, passed away April 23rd, 2011. He was born March 25th, 1987 in Murray and raised on the family farm in Riverton, Utah. He is the son of the late Craig A. Petersen (Riverton) and Nancy Petersen Rees, and Gaylen K. Rees (Grover), Utah.

From his birth Quinn was a unique and fun-loving boy. He enjoyed life to its fullest. Anyone that knew Quinn was a fast friend. His personality was bright and exciting. He was witty and quick with his humor and could brighten a room instantly.

Those of us who knew and loved him remember many times laughing until we cried. Quinn was an extremely bright and talented young man. Because of his talents and personality he was looked up to and loved by many. He was a natural leader and people were drawn to him and felt comfortable in his presence. He could captivate the heart of anyone young or old. Quinn was a handsome young man and liked to look his best. His tender heart and unforgettable smile endeared him to everyone he met. We will miss him terribly.

Quinn loved his family, sweetheart Kaitlin White, the farm, the outdoors, hunting, fishing, motorsports, exercising, eating healthy and working with his hands. He enjoyed working in the construction business with his Rees brothers and sister and cousin Brett. Quinn was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a strong testimony of the Savior. He believed in eternal families and looked forward to seeing his dad again. We believe he is enjoying a joyful reunion with those who have gone before him and is continuing his eternal journey.

Survived by his mother Nancy Petersen Rees (Gaylen), and his brothers Jake Petersen, Luke Petersen (Hilarie), Chase Petersen (Missy), and his sister Marci Kay Childs (Brandon) and his grandfather Jacob P. Burton Jr. Preceded in death by his father Craig Alan Petersen and grandparents Roy and Vera Petersen, and Myrl Burton. Funeral Services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. in the Harvest Park Stake Center, 4501 W. 11800 So. Friends and family may call Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the Broomhead Funeral Home, 12600 So. 2200 W. and Friday an hour and a half prior at the church. Interment in the South Jordan Cemetery.www.broomheadfuneralhome.com

I feel it a sign of aging when death becomes a more frequent guest than before. My dad died a year and a half ago and it was sad and difficult but because of supportive friends and family it was manageable. Quinn’s passing was very difficult to experience. I saw more raw emotion in the week we were there than I’ve ever seen in my life. My heart ached, not just in sympathy, it actually ached.

I believe in Christ though. I believe in His atonement and that he will one day return to us again. I believe that we will all be together again with Quinn and he will have stories to tell us about what he’s been up to in heaven, they’ll be awesome stories too ’cause Quinn could tell stories like no other. If he had to go, then Easter was, in fact, a beautiful time of year to do it. A time when we reflect on new life, resurrection and rebirth. We sure love you Quinn, you’ve left a hole in our hearts that can never be replaced and so we will rely on our Savior until we meet again.

Experiencing Grief

I don’t claim to have all the answers or be an expert in any one field. I’m certainly no counselor, however, in my experience with Child Life Specialty I have seen a variety of families grieve and so feel this is an important topic to address. Before the funeral we had all gotten together to reminisce and found ourselves laughing, a lot. Quinn was a ridiculously funny guy. I recall hearing one of Chase’s brothers comment, “It feels wrong for me to laugh, to be happy.” I was surprised to hear this. Through the course of my education i thought everything I was taught was common knowledge and so didn’t take my degree very seriously. I realize now that the things I’d learned from my education and internship may NOT be common knowledge and that there may be people reading this who need to hear what I’ve learned.

When a person grieves it is experienced differently than anybody else. Most people are familiar with the Stages of Grief as described by Kubler-Ross (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). However, I don’t think people understand that these feelings are not necessarily experienced in that order or constrained to these emotions at all. This list elaborates on the five stages of grieving.

There is no inappropriate way to grieve, knowing this doesn’t make it easier, but should at least reassure the individual that what they’re experiencing is normal and okay, explore those feeling. The best thing to do after a loved one has died is to talk about them, share stories, laugh and enjoy your life while focusing on the positive influence the deceased had on your life. Stay involved with your family, become MORE involved in extracurricular activities, set achievable goals and make a plan to reach them. You will revisit your pain from time to time and it may hurt just as much as the first time you heard the news. Consider those moments to reflect on the deceased and celebrate the life they DID live.

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gunyans.

Posted in General with tags camping, friends on August 16, 2011 by Missy

When we first moved to Vermont we met Michael and Holly Gunyan. There are few couples a person could meet as interesting as them. Holly attends medical school while fulfilling her church calling as an auxiliary leader. She grew up in several different places, Syria being one of them, and manages a considerably large garden with her husband Michael. Michael has done pretty much everything you can think of. He’s a professional chef/welder/river guide/carpenter/parking lot attendant . . . what else guys, help me out here.

Every year we’ve lived here we’ve gone camping with the Gunyans on Memorial Day. Sadly, this year was the only exception.

Every year we’d concoct new S’more’s roasting combinations. One year involved a Krispy Kream Doughnut, chocolate and marshmallow. Another, Bacon wrapped scallops. Shortbread and a Dark Ghirradelli chocolate. Mmmm!

To the Gunyans! May you match in Madison and allow us to continue our Memorial Day tradition! We sure do love you guys.

Mable.

Posted in General on August 13, 2011 by Missy

Miss Mable is a wonderfully educated, active and enthusiastic old woman who lives on our street in Vermont. She will be celebrating her 95th birthday this year and grows an extensive garden. She wouldn’t like it very much if she knew I posted this picture of her. “When I look in the mirror, and I have to look very closely now to see anything, I’m always very surprised at what I see. I don’t look the same as I picture myself. I think it’s a very good thing that my eyes are so bad or I might feel more depressed when I see what an old woman I’ve become!” laughs Mable while we sit at her table one day. Even at 95, Mable is sure to get out walking as often as possible. Doesn’t matter how cold it is (within reason), you can count on seeing Miss Mable walking through our neighborhood with her aluminum folding camping chair slung around her shoulder. She has a pretty big route mapped out so if she gets too tired she sets her aluminum chair down and takes a rest until she’s ready to start back up again. I love you Mable, you’re so determined to fight both mental and physical flaccidity of the Golden Years. Fight on. I hope to follow in the same fiery nature.

Lucy.

Posted in General on August 11, 2011 by Missy

Once we knew we were moving our home remodeling really kicked into gear. I had painted Enoch’s room in a whimsical argyle design and knew it would have to be repainted in some kind of neutral color when we moved. Because I’d have to prime and paint it anyway I thought it would be a great opportunity to invite the neighbor kid over to have a bit of fun.

Lucy is three years old and lives next door to us. Her family had moved in while we were in Utah for the holidays. The two kiddos hit-it-off immediately as soon as they were introduced. Enoch invited Lucy over. We took out our poster paints and let the two kids have full reign on the walls, whatever and wherever they wanted to.