This document is the November 2021 issue of the High Desert Living magazine for residents of the Tetherow community. It includes articles about local businesses and service providers, an introduction to new staff and contributors, and announcements for upcoming community events. The magazine aims to share stories, news and information among Tetherow residents.
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High Desert Living - November 2021
1. Burrus
Say Hello to The
Family
November
2021
Our Stories · Our Community · Our Publication
A Social Magazine Exclusively
For The Residents Of Tetherow
living
HIGH DESERT
2. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
2 3
TheVandenbornGroup.com
650 SW Bond St | Suite 100 | Bend, OR 97702
Natalie Vandenborn
Nvandenborn@gmail.com
541.508.9581
TheVandenbornGroup.com
650 SW Bond St | Suite 100 | Bend, OR 97702
Natalie Vandenborn
Nvandenborn@gmail.com
541.508.9581
Your Next
Level Lifestyle.
We know that Bend offers everyone the next level lifestyle they are looking for.
The Vandenborn Group is here to help you purchase a new home or sell your current home.
It is time to begin living your best life! Our vast knowledge and experience allow us to assist
you in all situations. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, moving up, downsizing or
purchasing an investment property we are here to help you. Our professionalism, integrity
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home can be a stressful time and we recognize this. This is especially true in today's
market. Our dedication to working for you helps create a seamless
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Let Us Be Your Trusted Advisor and Partner!
4. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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Sponsor
Neighborhood
I N D E X
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood vendor to use.
Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring the publication. These local businesses are
proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for
supporting the publication!
ACUPUNCTURE/ HEALTH
Dr. Megan Carmichael
(541) 647-0569
acuwmegan.com
ARTIST / PAINTINGS
Cooper Art and Abode
Kristine Cooper
(509) 844-2641
cooperartandabode.com
AUTO SALON
Perfection Plus Auto Salon
(541) 598-6193
ceramiccoatmycaroregon.com
BLINDS
Budget Blinds
Bob Hughes
(541) 788-8444
budgetblinds.com
CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL
& COMMERCIAL
Muddy Paws Residential
Cleaning Services
Patrick Sherman
(541) 280-8736
muddypawscleaners.com
COWORKING & EVENT SPACE
The Haven CoWorking
(541) 323-9675
worklifehaven.com
CUSTOM GARAGE FLOORING
Superior Garage Floors
(541) 549-4040
superiorgaragefloors.com
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS
Artisan Homes and Design
(541) 318-9987
artisanhomesanddesign.com
CUSTOM WOODWORKING & DESIGN
Nathan’s Custom Wood and Steel, LLC
Nathan Wismer
(541) 588-2817
bendcws.com
DENTISTRY
Mill Point Dental
Mike Longlet
(541) 388-0078
millpointdentalcenter.com
DESIGN AND REMODELING
Buffalo Ridge Builders
Aaron Ribble
(541) 977-1824
buffaloridgebuilders.com
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Joe Mansfield CLU, ChFC
(541) 633-1927
wfadvisors.com/joseph.L.mansfield
FITNESS STUDIO
Boxit Fitness
(541) 706-0210
www.boxitfit.com
FRAMING/CUSTOM
Eastlake Framing
(541) 389-3770
eastlakeframing.com
HOME INSPECTION
Bend Brothers Inspection Services
(541) 362-6379
bendbrothersinspections.com
HOME WATCH &
CONCIERGE SERVICES
4 Seasons Home Services
(541) 593-8037
4seasonshomeservices.net
INDOOR CYCLING
CycleBar
(541) 797-0490
cyclebar.com/location/bend
INSURANCE AGENCY
State Farm Insurance
Jessica Anderson
(541) 797-7041
sfagentanderson.com
INSURANCE AGENT
Country Financial
Austin Northup
(541) 390-0543
countryfinacial.com
LANDSCAPE/DESIGN
Desert Sun Landscapes
(541) 408-6309
bendlandscapes.com
LANDSCAPE/
IRRIGATION/HARDSCAPES
Native Habit Landscapes
(541) 420-8517
nativehabitbend.com
LUXURY REAL ESTATE
The Vandenborn Group
Natalie Vandenborn
(541) 508-9581
Thevandenborngroup.com
MEDICAL AESTHETICS &
HORMONE THERAPY
Optimal Anti-Aging and
Functional Medicine
(541) 728-0700
OptimalRXMeds.com
MORTGAGE LENDER
Directors Mortgage
Jake Murray
(541) 385-6112 x2310
Directorsmortgage.com/bend
NATURAL MEDICINE
Terrain Natural Medicine
(541) 797-0013
terrainnaturalmedicine.com
NON-PROFIT
MountainStar Family Relief Nursery
(541) 322-6820
mtstar.org
PAINTING SERVICE
Marc Riverman Painting, LLC
Marc Riverman
(541) 280-6073
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dental Associates
(541) 312-2490
pediatricdentistco.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Em’s Lens Photography
Emily Alper
(510) 418-2501
emslensphotography.com
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
Tidy and Flourish
Melissa Jean
(541) 480-1681
tidyandflourish.com
REAL ESTATE
BrundageSmith Real Estate Team
Molly Brundage
(541) 280-9066
brundgagesmith.com
SHORT TERM PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
Avid Wanderer
Carol Domme
(541) 797-3433
avidwanderer.net
SOLAR ENERGY/INSTALLATION
National Solar
(800) 808-1955
nationalsolarusa.com
TRAVEL CONSULTANT/
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Avid Wanderer
Carol Domme
(541) 797-3433
avidwanderer.com
VETERINARIAN
Blue Sky Veterinary Clinic
(541) 383-3833
blueskyvet.com
WINDOW COVERING
Bend Window Works
Andy Brookman
(541) 383-2455
bendwindowworks.com
WINDOW TINTING AND
STONE RESTORATION
Custom Tint
(541) 419-9578
custom-tint.com
WINE BAR / SHOP / DELIVERY
Good Drop Wine Shoppe
(541) 410-1470
gooddropwineshoppe.com
BRINGING
WOOD
AND
STEEL
TO LIFE
Craftsmanship
and detail
like no other.
NATHAN'S CUSTOM WOOD AND STEEL, LLC
541-588-2817 • NathansCustomWoodworking.com
5. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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LANDSCAPE SERVICES
• Full service landscape installation
• Customized landscape maintenance plans
• Irrigation activation/ winterization
(541) 408-6309
BendLandscapes.com
Since 2003
We work closely with your design to create a
beautiful and sustainable outdoor space.
FAMILY
OWNED
IN BEND
OREGON
LCB #9536
Poppy
Tetherow Resident
Tania Lee
Ad and Design Manager
Bend Brother’s
Inspection Services
Resident Business Partners
Michelle Davis
Resident Contributor
Dr. Megan Carmichael
Tetherow Healthful
Living Contributor
Megan Tormey
Owner of Dog Pack
Collars and
Pet of the Month Sponsor
Sarah Rafail
Resident Contributor
Emily Alper
High Desert
Living Photographer
The Burrus Family
Tetherow Residents
Joseph Mansfield,
CLU, ChFC
Financial
Fitness Contributor
High Desert Living Would Like To Thank Our Entire
Staff and Our Resident Contributors For Their
Valuable Contributions To The Magazine
living
HIGH DESERT
STAFF AND RESIDENT
CONTRIBUTOR TEAM
6. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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publisher’s note
Tetherow residents,
As I was preparing a message for our Thanksgiving issue, the
first thing that came to mind was: “Thankful!” For so many
reasons I am thankful. Thankful to be a ‘Bendite’ and live in
such a beautiful community. Thankful for the continued health
and safety of my family, friends, and High Desert community.
Thankful to our frontline workers who continue to make us
safe, day in and day out. Each November I try and slow down
and appreciate all the little things that get missed throughout
our hectic and busy schedules.
One of the things I am most grateful for is the opportunity to
bring High Desert Living to each of you, each and every month.
Many of you tell me how “unique”, “personal”, and “touching”
High Desert Living is and that you love reading about your neigh-
bors and community. Well, my joy is connecting, listening, and
sharing your stories. I am grateful for your emails, texts, phone
calls, and recommendations. There are a lot of magazines that
come to your mailbox and vie for your attention. I think we would
all agree there is a big difference between receiving something
and actually reading something. I want to say thank you for mak-
ing us a one you choose to read.
HOPE STARTS HERE
Since 2001, MountainStar has
services for 5,000 local babies
and toddlers.
Visit mtstar.org to support
your community’s children
for many years to come.
Together, we keep
kids safe!
Ready to start your next project?
We take the headaches out of the building process
so that you can sit back and enjoy life.
541.604.1534
BuffaloRidgeBuilders.com
Color Flake System
Polished Concrete
CCB#173851
As you turn the pages of the November issue, a thankful voice
reads throughout. Michelle Davis, a beautiful writer and author
in Tetherow, shares what she is grateful for in Tetherow and
beyond. Aaron Myrha, owner of Optimal Living and Functional
Medicine, shares what he is thankful for, what changed his life,
and has ultimately launched his success in helping others. And
Sarah Rafail, a natural Tetherow nurturer, shares her grate-
ful story of becoming a Doula and helping pregnant women in
Central Oregon have wonderful birth experiences.
As always, if you enjoy receiving and reading High Desert Living,
please thank our trusted local business partners. This magazine
would not exist without their partnership and support. The best
way to thank them is to consider their company when choosing
products or services for your family. Shop Local!
With gratitude,
Lindsay Resendez
541-219-1670
lindsay.resendez@n2pub.com
7. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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save the date
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
AND
MEETYOUR NEIGHBORS,
November 13th (4-6pm)
Kick Off the Holiday Season with
Happy Hour at BoXiT Fitness
Tetherow resident and BoXiT Fitness owner,
Shannah Werner, and her team, invite our
wonderful community to kick off the holiday
season and visit their refreshed studio.
All ages welcome!
When: November 13th from 4-6pm
Where: BoXiT Fitness Studio
345 SW Cyber Drive
Suite 104
RSVP to lindsay.resendez@n2pub.com
to reserve your spot in the RING!
We can’t wait to see you there!
welcome to high desert living
WELCOME OUR NEW BUSINESS PARTNERS
OUR SPONSORS HELP US BRING YOU THIS PUBLICATION
EACH AND EVERY MONTH. CHECK OUT OUR NEW PARTNERS!
As a COUNTRY Financial
Representative, Austin
Northup, is trained to listen to
your needs, and find solutions.
He is a local agent who lives,
works, and plays in the same
community as his clients and can help you select the right insur-
ance policies to protect your future.
“Six words I stand by: “Real People. Real Answers. Real Quick.”
My mission is to use those six words as a guide to meeting the
lifetime insurance needs of my clients. I provide personalized
advice, competitive products, and superior service. COUNTRY
Financial consistently receives the highest ratings for financial
strength, operating performance, and customer satisfaction.
Everyday I continue to strive for the highest customer satisfac-
tion, by speaking to my clients about their policies in plain lan-
guage – not jargon. I’m committed to providing each client with
an annual review to make sure the policies and coverage they
have in place meet their needs and protect them year after year.”
525 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend
541-382-4935
email: austin.northup@countryfinancial.com
website: representatives.countryfinancial.com/austin.northup
8. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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pet of the month
POPPY Story content by Sarah Fraser
The Frasers (Keith, Sarah, Hannah, Josephine and Alexander)
have lived in Tetherow almost 10 years with the newest addition,
Poppy, a mini–Australian Shepherd, just turning 7 months. “She
is a red merle with stunning blue eyes,” Mama Sarah dotingly
shares. “We got her from a breeder in Moscow, Idaho, whom we
met as our last Aussie was slowing down. We picked Poppy late
February from a litter of nine and collected her in the middle of
March. Thankfully she likes car rides!”
Poppy is very attached to her humans and will go anywhere
the Fraser family goes. She loves to play in the water with her
favorite walk being Shevlin Park. Recently, Poppy experienced
her first rain puddle after a nice overnight rain. She was very
cautious of it at first, but once she splashed the water, there was
no stopping her from puppy puddle stomping!
Poppy has completed two levels of training. “By no means was
she top of the class,” Sarah laughs. “Halfway through each
session she would lie down, cross her paws, and watch the other
dogs. Her favorite part of class was running and playing catch.
Curate. Choose Joy. Live in Gratitude.
Specializing in Home and Business Organization + KonMari Method Services
Text/Call Melissa at 541.480.1681 to discuss your project • TidyAndFlourish.com
home tidying • pantry organization • moving in
She can jump with ease, so we are thinking about continuing her
education and attending agility class. However, we are not sure
that’s such a good idea.”
Poppy is a great cuddler and will sit on your knee for hours. She
also likes to spend a lot of her day sitting and watching the golf-
ers. “She never makes a noise! She also loves to go for ice cream
and is one very spoiled puppy. She doesn’t destroy things, but is
known to hide socks and shoes under her bed!”
“If you see us out walking, please don’t hesitate to talk to us.
Australian Shepherds are known to be quite shy, so the more
people/dogs she meets, the better.”
Thank you, Fraser family, for sharing your story and introducing us
to your newest addition! She is such a doll and represents the High
Desert community well. Thank you, Megan of Dog Pack Collars, for
making the ideal collar for Poppy. Her puppy energy and beautiful
markings match the “Glamour Ribbons” print perfectly.
THE PUPPY
9. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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high desert elevation
GRATITUDE
by Michelle Davis, Author and Tetherow Resident
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns
denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity...
It makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a
vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
Living in a world where each
week brings about a new uncer-
tainty, I am beyond grateful to be
residing in the Tetherow com-
munity. Whenever life’s events
become a bit too much, all I need
to do is step outside and within
moments, I find solace. Mother
Nature certainly graced this high
desert region with incredible
vistas, endless trails, bountiful
wildlife, and a majestic river. Even
when inside, watching graceful
deer nibbling on nearby bushes, spying a delicate hummingbird
searching for nectar, or enjoying the exquisite glow of a lingering
sunset, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to be here.
In fact, it would be easy to solely base this blog on how grateful
I am for the high desert land. But there’s more to Bend … and
Tetherow … much more. I’ve come to realize the true splendor of
this community lies in the people who live here.
Ok, I know it’s not like it used to be … before so many of us moved
here. Nevertheless, what I find most unique is the acceptance I’ve
felt since our first trip to Bend. Maybe it’s because most residents
are transplants, making it natural to reach out to others. After
all, isn’t that true of many small towns turned big? But what if
Bend were special? Could it be that unique and caring people are
drawn to this town? Is it a place where people feel free to shine
their light?
As I’ve gotten to know more “Bendites,” I realize a common
thread exists which exceeds fitness and love of the outdoors.
It’s a commitment to excellence. This is more than achieving
personal greatness—it’s a quest for growth in all aspects of life.
People in Bend want healthy lifestyles, conservation, respect,
freedom, and peace. And they want to feel comfortable in their
own skin, uninhibited to be who they are.
I’ve heard it’s our volcanic
rock that draws certain
people to Bend. If so, that
might explain things. The
moment I walk off the plane
in Redmond or drive into
the city limits on Route 20,
my body senses some-
thing different. It’s hard to
explain, but I feel the pull,
hear the call to step up and
elevate into my higher self.
And for that, I am beyond
grateful to live in Bend and
to be inspired by many in
this amazing community.
We each have a unique rea-
son for being here, whether
it’s riding epic trails, fishing
the Deschutes River, attend-
ing concerts at Les Schwab,
or enjoying the impressive
breweries and restaurant
scene. Why are you in Bend?
How is Bend special for you?
What makes you grateful
about this community?
As humans, it’s natural to focus on what we don’t have, the injus-
tices in our world, and the pain and sorrows experienced by other
or ourselves. While it’s important to honor these emotions and
continue to strive to make humanity stronger, safer, and kinder,
we cannot stay stuck in the negative. For us to make a change, it
must start within, at the individual level. When we find gratitude
and appreciate the many gifts bestowed upon us, we take one
step closer to rising. And in doing so, we light the way for those
around us.
Elevate. Shine your light.
Be grateful.
“At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark
from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep
gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” –
Albert Schweitzer
CENTRAL OREGON’S FULL SERVICE PV SOLAR
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10. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
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THANKFUL
OPTIMAL ANTI-AGING AND
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
By Aaron Myrha
In 2018, a few months away from turning 45 years old, Aaron
Myhra, managing partner at Optimal Anti-Aging and Functional
Medicine, found himself 50 pounds overweight and tired all the
time. “I didn’t eat terribly and got at least eight hours of sleep
most nights, but found myself constantly exhausted. Looking at
beginning the second half of my life, I decided to get a complete
physical exam. The results were great, other than needing to
lose some weight. Happy for the results, but still extremely tired
all the time, I kept searching for answers and stumbled onto
Hormone Replacement Therapy. I had another blood lab test
specifically for hormone panels and found my testosterone levels
were in the low 400s (typical range is 250-1,200).”
While Aaron was grateful to have found the reason why he had
been struggling to manage his weight and energy levels, he also
found himself frustrated that none of his health providers had
mentioned testing his hormone panels while getting blood work
done. “I found a specialized clinic that offered HRT (hormone
replacement therapy), and after a couple months, my life began
changing in a very positive way. As my energy levels and stamina
increased, the weight started coming off.” Aaron began research-
ing deeper into hormone replacement therapy online and after
talking to several medical professionals around the region, he
learned that hormones and their consideration in primary care
was extremely rare. “It then became my mission to make sure
other men and women had access to primary care specializing in
hormone replacement therapy in the Pacific Northwest.”
In October of 2020, Aaron started Optimal Alternative Medicine
in beautiful downtown Redmond, Oregon. In April 2021, he part-
nered with Leah Sullivan, FNP-PC, board-certified Family Nurse
Practitioner and member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging
Medicine. Aaron and Leah decided to change the clinic name to
Optimal Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine and now offer hormone
replacement therapy as well as primary care services to patients in
Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, both in person and via tele-
medicine. “With the current pandemic, we felt it important to be able
to offer access to primary care and Hormone Replacement Therapy
without having to come in physically or rearrange a patient’s busy
schedule to operate at their highest level.”
“Our mission is to help people feel their absolute best
and not have to sacrifice the things they enjoy in life
because of the natural course of aging. You don’t have
to age hard or accept a decreased ability to enjoy your
life to the fullest physically, mentally, or spiritually. At
Optimal Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine, we can bio
identically replace hormones our bodies have depleted
or stopped producing, while slowing and even reversing
the aging process so you can be your most active life and
feel better, look better, and live better.”
A thankful testimonial from Bonnie V.:
“I am a 55-year-old, post-menopausal woman who was sick and
tired of feeling sick and tired! I literally felt terrible all the time!
I had no sex drive, and my weight kept climbing upwards, no
matter the diets or healthy eating. Then I discovered Optimal
Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine. I had a blood test done that
showed I was very low in testosterone! As low as -5, on a scale
where normal for a woman is in the range of 120. Who knew! My
doctor had never discussed testosterone as an issue for women!
Did you know it is just as important as estrogen and progester-
one for us ladies? I started taking testosterone in February of
this year, and before I knew it I was feeling amazingly better! So
much more energy, and a positive outlook, after feeling so low
and depressed! Now, the weight is coming off, and as for my sex
drive… Wow! I’m up and running again – even better than when I
was in my 20s. I encourage you to check out Optimal Anti-Aging
and Functional Medicine. Their staff are very knowledgeable and
will treat you like family. It will change your life!”
Call: 541-728-0700
Email: info@optimalrxmeds.com
Website: optimalrxmeds.com
OPTIMAL
ANTI
AGING
and
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MEDICINE
753
SW
11th
Ave.
Suite
A
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OR
97756
541-728-0700
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For more info or to schedule an appointment
OPTIMALRXMEDS.COM
11. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
20 21
WE LOVE WHAT WE DO
and we love your pets too!
“I love that Patrick shows up with a cleaning crew
of 3 or 4 people. They can get thru my house in an hour.
They are always on time and can squeeze me in last
minute if necessary. They practice Covid mask wearing.
They bring their own supplies and use natural
cleaning products. They are always happy and asking
for feedback so they can improve their services.
I highly recommend them!!”
(541) 280-8736
muddypawscleaners@gmail.com
SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL HOUSEKEEPING
AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES
tetherow nonprofit spotlight
MOVEMENT
Live well. Feel good. Choose joy.
KICKcancER is a nonprofit dedicated to helping fami-
lies with cancer thrive. We educate families on nutrition,
natural detox methods + essential oils to boost well-being
and quality of life during and after cancer. We also provide
KICKstart Kits for families who are interested in exploring
and integrating some of these methods with their children
undergoing treatment and post treatment. We host a 30 Day
THRIVE Program that will provide you with a customized
DONATE | CONNECT | VOLUNTEER
kickcancermovement.org
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH EDUCATION
We teach the importance of REAL food and REAL health for REAL life.
NO ONE
FIGHTS ALONE
WE OFFER FREE
KICKSTART KITS
to families with children
undergoing treatment.
30 DAY
THRIVE PROGRAM
Customized meal plan and protocol
to specifically help you THRIVE
KICKCANCER
ATHLETES PROGRAM
Providing sponsorships for our
cancer fighting athletes
kick
cancer
30 day protocol, ongoing support and weekly training to help you
THRIVE through cancer.
We empower cancer fighting athletes through our KICKcancER
Athlete’s Sponsorship Program to help them take their dreams to
the next level.
We appreciate your support and encourage you to check out our
website (kickcancermovement.org) to learn more about our
programs, events, and sponsors.
12. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
22 23
Jenna Anne | 9th grade
Addison | 6th grade
Kennady | 8th grade
Cascades Academy
tetherow
kids
Back-to-School
A very special THANK YOU to our wonderful
teachers, school administrators and faculty
for their hard work and continued support of
our students and High Desert Community.
Teddy and Haley
5th and 7th grade | Seven Peaks
Noah | 2nd grade |
Miller Elementary
Isaac and Lexi | 6th and 7th grade | Pacific Crest
Colton | 7th grade | Pacific Crest Micah | 3rd grade |
Miller Elementary
Bella and Frank | 9th grade | Summit High School
Kaia | 4th grade | Miller Elementary
Cole | 3rd grade |
Miller Elementary
Allia | 7th grade | Pacific Crest
Jackson | 4th grade | Miller Elementary
FIRST DAY
PICTURES,2021
13. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
24 25
Dr. Megan Carmichael
541-728-3481 • info@bendlifeacu.com • 1291 NW Wall St, Bend, Oregon 97703
A Holistic Health Center
To a joyful present and
a well remembered past.
Best wishes to the
upcoming Holidays and
a prosperous New Year.
TYLER DAY,
Owner Operator
LANDSCAPING • HARDSCAPING • IRRIGATION
NATIVEHABITBEND.COM @NATIVEHABITLANDSCAPES
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healthful living
Introducing
Bend Life Acupuncture
Integrative Medicine
by Dr. Megan Carmichael DACM, LAc
I’d like to formally introduce myself
to the High Desert Community.
I’m Dr. Megan Carmichael DACM,
LAc. I’ve lived here in Bend Oregon
since 2006. In between now and then
we ventured to Southern California for
a few years, before quickly realizing
that the best mountain bike and moto
trails are in Bend, so we moved back.
In 2015 I shared a clinic space in an
established acupuncture clinic on the
eastside of Bend. In no time, I moved
to my own clinic on the southwest
side and by 2020 I’d outgrown the
clinic, but experienced a brief time off
through 2020. When we opened back
up, it was as if we didn’t miss a beat
and it was time to expand.
As of October 2021, I am happy
to announce the expansion and
rebranding of my clinic to Bend Life
Acupuncture Integrative Medicine,
formally known as Acupuncture w/
Dr. Megan Carmichael. Not only has
the business name changed, we also
Bend Life Acupuncture Integrative Medicine front
staff greets you with a warm, nurturing atmosphere. I
specialize in two techniques called Balanced Method
and Electro-Acupuncture. Issues that I specialize
in, but not limited to are; Allergy Elimination, pain
management, nutrition, women’s health, toxicity,
and gut health. Prior to this I was a behavioral health
counselor and massage therapist. Additional acupunc-
turists are being added to the team with specialties in
chiropractic, physical, emotional health, pain manage-
ment, oncology care, women’s health, and more.
Our massage therapists specialize in deep tissue,
medical massage, pain management,
decreasing depression/anxiety, physical training/
therapy studies, and more. We have a sound
therapist who specializes in biomedicine ailments,
such as increasing athletic outcome through
sound wave treatments. He also has years of work-
ing with PTSD, emotional care, meditation
and other biomedicine issues. Since our skin is our
biggest organ absorbing all of the outside
world, Bend Life Acupuncture Integrative
Medicine has added a licensed esthetician.
Please feel free to stop by our clinic and visit our
new location. We would love to talk more with you
about your healthcare goals and building improve-
ment for enjoying more of life and longevity.
1291 N.W. Wall Street Bend, OR 97703
541-728-3481
https://bendlifeacu.com
have a new location in the heart of
downtown Bend Oregon.
Our vision is to be a balanced center of
holistic healthcare, providing you with
a variety of practitioners and healing
modalities.We also believe in the benefit
of reaching outside our walls to build a
multifaceted approach to healing and
communication with other community
providers.The new location has six
treatment rooms and ample parking
and soon we’ll host multiple lectures to
the community of Central Oregon.
There are many spokes on a wheel,
all of these spokes need balance
and attention for precision, as do
the many facets of good health and
longevity. We all see that diseases like
autoimmune, insomnia, infertility,
gut health, depression, addictions,
chronic pain, cancer, etc are on the
rise. To treat these conditions we’ll
need healthcare practitioners to come
together and share their knowledge
and experience to help each case as
unique as the individual.
14. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
26 27
meet your neighbors
Story content by the Burrus Family | Photos by Em’s Lens Photography
Meet your neighbors, the Burrus
family. David, Elise, Ivan (3), Sage (18
months) and Otto the VW bus (50)
have been residing in Tetherow for
the past three years. “We feel very
fortunate to live in Tetherow and take
advantage of the golf course, swim-
ming pool, biking/walking paths and
playground with our kids. The close
proximity to Mt. Bachelor is amaz-
ing! We also love Phil’s Trails and
the Wanoga trail system for mountain
biking, and often ride to the trails
directly from our neighborhood!”
You may recognize their timeless,
unique VW bus in the neighbor-
hood. Affectionately named Otto,
and celebrating a 50-year anniver-
sary this year, he is the mascot for
their business, Pediatric Dental
Associates, and is part of their
signature advertisement around
town, including High Desert
Living. “We love going on family
road trips with Otto! He’s great
for local camping and cruising
around town.”
When the Burruses are not camping with Otto, they
often travel to the Oregon Coast to go surfing. Their
favorite spots are Pacific City, Otter Rock and Agate
Beach. “We love having family traditions with bon-
fires and beach time on the Oregon coast with our
kids.” When they can travel out of state, they love
Hawaii. The Burruses also like skiing/snowboard-
ing, biking, hiking, surfing the river wave, and fish-
ing. Music is also a huge passion. “We love music!
Our favorite band is Pearl Jam and have seen 50
shows in the U.S. and internationally. We have a
‘gallery’ in our home that showcases our Pearl Jam
concert posters.” They also like the Rolling Stones,
B F A M I L Y
T H E urrus
Grateful Dead, Phish, The Black Crowes and like
the genres of Outlaw/Cosmic Country and Reggae.
David grew up in Creswell, Oregon, and Elise grew
up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For their undergrad-
uate education, David attended Eastern Oregon
University, and Elise went to Boston College. They
met in Wisconsin while at Marquette University
School of Dentistry. They both shared the passion
of working with children and pursued residency
training in pediatric dentistry. David and Elise
married in 2009 and moved to Bend in 2012. David
was particularly attracted to Bend because he was a
wildland firefighter before dental school, and spent a
lot of time in Eastern and Central Oregon. He loved
the beauty of the Cascade mountains and also the
snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor! He encouraged his
Midwestern wife to move out west, even though she
had only been to Bend once before, during a snow-
storm. Now, they could not imagine a better place
to raise their family. “We had the fortunate oppor-
tunity to join the pediatric dental practice of David’s
childhood dentist. A short time after moving here,
we were able to purchase the practices in Bend and
Redmond. In 2016, we built out a new Bend office
in the COPA Center for Pediatrics in Northwest
Crossing. Our Bend office features a real 1976 VW
bus, named ‘Pearly’ that was converted into a two-
story playhouse. We take pride in giving kids a posi-
tive, fun experience at the dentist at an early age!”
Their dental practice sponsors many local schools
and sports teams and are mentors for students
at COCC. Elise also served on the board for the
Kemple Memorial Children’s Dental Clinic.
Over the last year and a half, they have done a lot of
take-out and family dinners at home. “We feel lucky
to have so many good food options in Bend.” Some
of their favorite restaurants include: Wild Rose,
Trattoria Sbandati, Washington, Zydeco, all of the
local breweries.
When they are at home, relaxing, the Burrus family
likes to read, spin some vinyl records, sit by the
fire, and watch their favorite sports teams: Green
Bay Packers and the Oregon Ducks.
When asking what their favorite part of living in
the Tetherow community was, they kindly replied,
“Our wonderful neighbors, the beautiful nature and
scenery, and the close proximity to Mt. Bachelor
and the Cascade Lakes! We have a bobcat and a
great horned owl that often visit our property. Bend
is a wonderland in all seasons!
16. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
30 31
INSPEC TIONS SERVICES
Bend Brothers Inspection Services has been servicing Central
Oregon since 2020. While visiting Bend on their honeymoon in
2019, Dana and Ross fell in love with Oregon. They moved to Bend
in 2020 and along the way convinced Ross’s brother, Ryan, to move
with them. Ross and Ryan came from similar backgrounds. Ross as
a real estate agent and Ryan as a home inspector.
The brothers decided to start a home inspection company that
focuses on client and agent relationships while providing the
most thorough inspection possible.
Their mission is to help homebuyers make informed decisions
when purchasing a home. “We are committed to providing the
highest level of customer service and maintaining a level of pro-
fessionalism that is unmatched. We offer 24/7 scheduling and
support for our clients and agents. We provide all reports in 24
hours or less, and we even offer a buyback guarantee!”
To further their mission of encouraging homeownership and
home maintenance, Bend Brothers Inspection Services would
like to offer their Home Maintenance Inspection to the resi-
dents of Tetherow for a discounted rate. If you schedule a Home
Maintenance Inspection with them and mention High Desert
Living, they will give you 20% off their normal price.
When asking Bend Brothers if they had any advice for the
Tetherow community, they honestly replied, “Our advice to all
homeowners is to maintain their home as diligently as possible.
Most of the deficiencies that we identify on a daily basis are
caused by deferred homeowner maintenance. The big three,
as we like to call them, consists of: the roof, HVAC, and sid-
ing. These three systems should be evaluated and maintained
yearly to ensure longevity. We offer a yearly Home Maintenance
Inspection to assist our customers with maintaining their home
and protecting their investment.”
“At Bend Brothers, we will always be a family-owned and
operated business dedicated to our customers. When we are not
inspecting you may find us out enjoying the Cascades or grabbing
a beer at a local brewery. We love the Central Oregon lifestyle and
are humbled to be a part of this great community.”
BendBrothers
business sponsor spotlight
Call: 541-362-6379
Visit: bendbrothersinspections.com
Email: admin@bendbrothersinspections.com
Thank you, Dana, Ross, and Ryan, for providing excellent
customer service to our High Desert community. The Bend
Brothers recently came to my home for a Home Maintenance
Inspection. Their professionalism and attention to detail were
unmatched! They explained every evaluation thoughtfully and
truly cared about providing solutions to areas that needed to be
fixed. And all within 24 hours! I highly recommend their excellent
service! Thank you, Bend Brothers Inspection Services, for being
a valued and founding partner in High Desert Living.
THE BROTHERS DECIDED TO START
A HOME INSPECTION COMPANY
THAT FOCUSES ON CLIENT AND
AGENT RELATIONSHIPS
17. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
32 33
Doula
Your Neighborhood
L O V I N G H A N D S D O U L A S E R V I C E S
high desert highlights Content provided by Sarah Rafail
If you have the pleasure of meeting Sarah Rafail, one thing you will immediately notice is her
calm and nurturing nature. It is certainly no surprise that her career has been in caregiving.
While living in Newport Beach, California, Sarah was a critical care nurse at the Hoag Hospital
for two years. After moving to Bend five years ago, Sarah found her passion as a doula and has
been caring for pregnant women in Central Oregon for nearly three years.
Sarah is generally hired at the beginning of the second trimester and builds a relationship with
the mother and their support group for the remainder of their pregnancy. “I’m an employee of
the parents and surrogates,” she lovingly admits. “Doulas provide education (I provide evi-
denced-based research) and physical and emotional support during labor. We also advocate for
our clients when we see that they aren’t being given the best care by staff. I am their support
role. I find out what their needs are and am there in case something happens.”
Oftentimes, Sarah is the mother or sister role for pregnancies that don’t have family in town
and is on call two weeks before and after every due date.
As a mother of four, Sarah’s first birth in the hospital didn’t go as planned. “My first baby
was born in a hospital with an OB as my provider. My goal was an unmedicated birth. From
the start, my OB didn’t support this type of birth, and the hospital staff did not make it easy
for me either. I was not “heard” and did not feel supported throughout the whole pregnancy
and birth. My second, third, and fourth babies were born at home with a midwife and doula
present. These were entirely better experiences. My midwife and doula listened to me and
my wishes for the type of birth that I wanted. They empowered me by creating a safe and
As Sarah looks into the future, her goal is to start midwifery
school online, next summer. This will be about a three-year
commitment and will become a midwife for at-home births.
“Midwives are assisting the woman with the medical part of her
pregnancy. She is medically trained to provide prenatal care for
women and to deliver babies.”
When asking Sarah if there was one thing she would want preg-
nant women to know, she thoughtfully replied, “Find a provider
supported environment. I went into
birth work because of this experience.
No matter where you birth, women
need to feel safe, supported and
heard. This is what I provide for my
clients. I have found that women need
someone who can fill the role of their
mother or sister but in a non-judg-
mental way. I have a true passion for
helping women achieve the birth that
they desire.”
Following her client’s birth, Sarah
does an after-care check-in to make
sure all is well with the new mom and
baby. As a trained placenta specialist,
she can also encapsulate the placenta
for her client to ingest. “It is the life
source between you and your baby.
What better way to nourish your
body than by something you and your
baby made together.” The placenta is
full of nutrients and hormones that
can replenish your postpartum body
and has many benefits, including:
• Inhibits postpartum blues
• Restores lost hormones
• Reduces postpartum bleeding
• Restores iron levels
• Increased milk production
• Increased energy
In addition to capsules, Sarah also
enjoys making:
• Tinctures: Last indefinitely, can be
used to ease PMS symptoms and
used for menopause
• Herbal Salve: C-section scars,
diaper rash, eczema, sore nipples
from breasting
• Placenta prints: Made with food-
grade dyes
that is on board with the type of birth that you desire, ask ques-
tions, and if you don’t like their answers, it’s ok to switch. Also,
educate yourself about childbirth and the postpartum period.
Read books, not Google.”
Visit lovinghandsbend.com to learn more and follow Sarah’s
doula journey on Instagram at lovinghands.doula.bend.
meet
Sarah and her doula baby, Archer
18. High Desert Living • November 2021 November 2021 • High Desert Living
34 35
23.
Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
Adventures by Disney!
Disney Wish cruise ship coming out in 2022!
5 4 1 - 7 9 7 - 3 4 3 3
AV I D W A N D E R E R . C O M
