Valerie Reed:
CLASS OF 1973
Sheldon High SchoolClass of 1973
Eugene, OR
Valerie's Story
Life
My life since high school has been a virtual whirlwind of experiences. I think I initially dreamed of being a professional singer, and did pursue that kind of half-heartedly for a while; even spent some time in Hollywierd, but earned income from TV and movie work rather than from any of my music-related activities. I was married briefly to a poor, confused young man with an anger-management problem. Over the years, I've been blessed with some fascinating employment experiences - disk jockey (KORE), dispatcher (BYU Police and Pleasant Grove Police, both in Utah), admin. aide and 9-1-1 Public Ed. Coordinator (Eugene Police), editorial assistant (U of O), training coordinator/grant writer (LCC), farm manager (Dark Horse Farms in Oregon, Lea Ness Equestrian Farm in NC, and Wish Upon A Ster Friesians in Maryland), editor and writer (North American Friesian Journal), free-lance writer (Equus, Practical Horseman, Dressage Today), office manager (an engineering firm in Texas, and at several construction sites), administrative assistant (Iams - yep, the pet food company - and other places), rescue/rehab volunteer (various cat/dog rescue and wildlife organizations). I've learned something valuable from each place, and am very pleased that, although I'm not financially wealthy, I'm certainly fulfilled spiritually and emotionally.
I've also been extremely blessed in my friends. I've met some amazing people over the years, and my life has been made richer for knowing them. I've found that my passion in life is caring for animals, and it's that passion that has enables me to long outlive the prognosis for my illness (lupus). My horse (a 10-year-old Friesian gelding I've owned since he was a week old) keeps me young at heart and fairly fit, and my cats keep me awake when I'm trying to sleep. :) That's their job, according to them. My friends keep me smiling and (mostly) sane.
I've moved back to Oregon where I intend to stay. I'm done relocating house and critters, although I hope to do more traveling. I miss my friends and extended family (which, naturally, includes animals!) around the country, but it's good to be home.
I occasionally get an inquiry from people who grew up listening to my dad on KUGN and who wonder from time to time what...Expand for more
ever became of him. So here's an update: He's happily retired from radio, and has recently moved into his dream home. He designed it, his own self, and took three years to build it. It's not quite finished, but it's finished enough for him to live in it so he'll take his time with the final touches. The family is very proud of him. He does occasional voice work for radio and TV ads, and for a time was the host for a bunch of video series compiled here in Eugene. He hasn't yet ridden his 'grand-horse' (as he refers to my horse), but I hope to correct that situation soon. ;)
Update (5/22/07): They say that when you get serious about staying single, you'll meet someone. I used to think that was a load of horse manure, but I was wrong. I'm engaged to be married in September of this year to an amazing and wonderful man who happens to be French, works for the same company I do (Levi Strauss & Co.), and is not just 'someone' - he's my soulmate. We've just purchased a house in the Santa Clara area, and are really looking forward to setting up housekeeping there. I take back what I said about not moving again.
We're headed to France soon for his daughter's wedding, so I finally get to cross off "Go to France" from my list of Things To Do. I'm totally jazzed about that!
Still looking after cats and my now-13-years-old horse and wildlife in my spare time, counting pants (I work in Inventory Control for the Levi's Only stores) during the day, and just generally appreciating my life.
I hope my former classmates are all enjoying their lives, too.....
Update: I'm now happily married, and really having fun furnishing and decorating our new mortgage payment. :))
Next update: We took Dad to France with us last February to do some work on the apartment my in-laws (may they rest in peace) left to my husband and his brother. Great bonding experience, got a lot done, and it was wonderful watching Dad have such a good time. :). We also have another Friesian gelding in the family - 3 years old, and a third cousin to our older horse. They're devoted to each other, and I'm convinced Gryphon keeps Skoshi young. My husband and I are still at Levi Strauss; Gerard's in Global IT and I'm still doing inventory control for our stores. Life is good!
Register for Free to view all details!
Yearbooks
Reunions
Register for Free to view all events!
Photos
