First Week of School

Brody wanted to go to Big Al's with his best buddy Connor to celebrate the first week of school.  They have different teachers this year but play together every recess and continue their strong friendship.   The last picture cracks me up... boys taking a selfie :) 

First Day of School - Wesley 1st Grade & Brody 3rd Grade

Wesley was very excited to start 1st grade at South Ridge with Miss. Manke as his teacher!!!  Brody was looking forward to showing his little brother around.   He was happy with his teacher and excited to see his friends.   Adorable cards made by Mimi!   Both boys select their outfits and did their own hair this year - getting so big! 

Crater Lake Half Marathon - Enjoying the View

We went to check out Crater Lake the day before the run - absolutely gorgeous views!!!   Brody and Lila both did research on Crater Lake.... we all learned some interesting facts.  Brody's report pictured above.  

Crater Lake Half Marathon - Race Day

Crater Lake 1/2 marathon was by far the hardest run we have ever done but hands down the most beautiful!  The air quality was not ideal bc of all the wild fires... they did not decide if the race was able to happen until two days before the event, it was a last min call based on the fire location, air quality and road closures.   It was the highest elevation we had ever run and the most hilly - there was no flat ground it was either up hill or down hill and the last 7 miles were all up hill.   Before the race started Amy and I were looking around and realized it was a small group participating in this run and they were all elite runners... except us, but we finished and had a great time running. We had the most AMAZING support crew!!!  Because there were so few people participating in the run and it started at sunrise, they were able to follow us in the car most of the route.   The kids were continually yelling out the window "go mamma" and encouraging us the entire way cheering with signs they made.   Big thanks to Amy for agreeing to do this crazy run :)  Matt and Scott are the best husbands ever - beyond thankful for their love & support! 

Crater Lake Half Marathon - Ranch Rental House

We stayed at the cutest ranch rental - the owners were the nicest people!  The owners live next door and made sure that everything about our stay was perfect.  They have hundreds of acres of cattle, several horses and adorable ranch dogs.  We happened to be staying there just after a bunch of baby calfs were born.  It was extremely peaceful and beautiful there overlooking the river and animals.   They brought the kids/dads to a fishing hole on their property via an ATV and Wesley caught a big fish.   The kids had a blast catching fish, crawdads, snakes, playing in the water and exploring the wide open space.  Brody & Eva decided to slumber in one room and Lila & Wesley camped out on cots in another room.   Such a fun vacation with friends that our kids have grown up together since birth.