The Marathon

Until a couple of years ago, I never thought I would want to run a marathon. Then, one day, while driving the Alpine Loop to see the fall colors, I thought how fun it would be to run through the mountains while training for a marathon. I wasn't sure just when I would feel ready to do it and I definitely wouldnt have done it this year if it were'nt for my running friend Joanna. She attended the Iron Man Cor de Leine (how ever you spell it) to watch our other friend compete in her first Iron Man this past June and when she came home...she was fired up. I call it the "finish line effect!" You can't help but want to get up and move when you watch all those people cross the finish line of a race. The first time I felt it was while watching Troy compete in the Spudman Triathalon in Burley, Idaho. I remember thinking..."if some of these people can do this, so can I"

And now, after training for 3 months, I (we) did it. On September 19, 2009 we ran the Logan, Top of Utah, Marathon. I call it "Joanna's Marathon" because she was the driving force. She was the reason we all got roped in to doing it, and I'm so glad we did! Thanks Jo!

Here I am, wearing my medal proudly!!!


We were so happy when we saw Troy, Aaron, and Scott at mile 18. It was the best little pick-me-up we could have asked for.

We started together and finished together! I love these girls!

ooooh, chocolate milk never tasted so good!

The legs were a little wobbly, but we felt pretty good--a lot better than we did after our training run of 22 miles.

My man who loves and supports me. He inspires me with his drive and discipline. Love you T-bone!!

BYU vs Oklahoma Game and Victory Run

Dad just couldn't resist taking the flag on a victory run around the neighborhood. Me, Julie, and Joanna stayed home and cheered them on. Rhett was cute to blow bubbles with Emma. He's a softy at heart. Todd Kartchner heard the commotion and came to join in on the fun. Kinnon and Jordan and his buddies finishing the victory run. Even Kaela got in on the action. Troy, Todd, Aaron, Kinnon, and Kaela. It's fun when BYU wins! Anna opted out of the victory run.

Football Pep-Rally

Matt and Chase. Boy, how Matt loves pictures! The waffle making crew Coach Price and Tbone Kaela's second round We've got some fun coaches and parents. The pyramid that never was Jordan came straight from his practice Me, Joanna, Coach Lee's wife, and Tara. Trevor and Emma. Emma, remember to play hard to get! Kaela giving me her best picture smile!

Emma's First Day of School

We love love love Super Start!

She loves putting her tuition check in the mailbox!

Swim Lessons with Becky Thomas

For years I have wanted to get the kids in this swim school with Becky Thomas. I finally got it together enough to get someone signed up (lucky Emma)! Wow! Becky and her method of teaching is amazing. I guess her mom, Jan Thomas, has run a famous swim school in California for years. Becky lives here in Utah and does a round of swim lessons at her home here after she finishes up the summer at her mom's school in CA. We got lucky to get Becky as Emma's teacher. She was amazing and Emma loves her. Thanks Becky!!

Graduation Day.

"I'm in charge!"

Finally Four!!!

For at least the last 8 months Emma has been asking when she is going to be 4. It's hard being an August birthday--I should know! Hers is even later than mine though, August 29. Sorry babe! We sure had a fun time celebrating down at Dear Lizzy's though, didn't we!?

We were minus a few. Jordan was in Alpine jumping bikes into a pond with friends, Kaela was with the Price's at a party and I think Matt was at the same party with Easton. So, the Half-Family party was what we did.

Emma loved her "Dizzy Lizzy" drink.

Anna preparing for her waittressing days.

I love the little speckles of chocolate cupcake on her chin. She's such a beauty!

Fashionista.

Fabulous hat Anna Banana

Dad doing what Dad does best!

Time for presents

She couldn't wait for those mini littlest pet shops.

Grandmas and Grandpas always sweeten the day with some loot! Thanks guys!

Kaela, always giving, gave Emma a book she picked out herself in Jackson Hole and a dollar bill. She's always got to slip in a little cash.

Back in the Saddle, so to speak!

First Day of school went off without a hitch. Kaela loved her purple shirt and matching purple shoes. That girl is Puplicious!!

Anna got hot (well, she already was) in her new Abercrombie sweater that she just "had to have".

Matt's first day of 7th grade left him sleeping on the couch until football practice.

Jordan is all about the naps right now. Think that growing thing is happening.