A Day in the Life

Grandma and Grandpa and the girls

2012-01-29T19:40:00.000-08:00

Happy 40th birthday to Justin. Justin and Kristin celebrated by skiing at Schweitzer and spending the night up at the ski area with Justin's brothers and sister! We celebrated by hanging out with the kids! Precious time together. Full of joy!

Silly faces

Layne must have asked me 10 times when Grandpa was going to be home. He had to work a bit but he finally made it. He supplied the girls with headlamps for some fun in the dark.

In the AM we had plans to go to Build a Bear but first the Layne and Lucy waited for some of Grandpa's pancakes. Little did we know that they would be rejected. They didn't taste like their mom's. So we made smoothies and had cereal. For the record Mike makes whole wheat pancakes and they are yummy.

Off to Build a Bear. Layne and Lucy told me how excited they were as we were driving to the mall to make stuffed animals. This is Layne's bear that she named Rainbow. It plays a birthday song. She got to pick the song out.

The squeeze test to see if it is just the way she wants it. More stuffing? Nope it was just like she liked it.

Next is Lucy

Lucy picked the girl chipmunk form the movie Chipwrecked. Her name in the movie was Brittany but she is now Gloria! I am not sure where Lucy got that name but so be it. Gloria sings a song from the movie.

Lucy is standing on the pump that pumps the stuffing in the animal.

Now they are preparing the hearts to go inside their animals. So cute. I wish I could remember all the things the worker had them do because it was adorable. Things like put the heart by your ear so your animal knows you will always listen.

I think they are getting the heart warm here.

Putting it on your nose so the animal knows you will always be there.

The cutest ever is close your eyes and make a wish for your new animal. Look at those girls squishing their eyes up and wishing. Ahhhh precious.

In goes the heart!

Now it is time to brush the dolls and pick out some clothing.

Layne could not wait to show Grandpa her bear!

Lucy's chipmunk Gloria is in her jammies and jumping on the bed with the girls.

OK, the headlamps came out again. This room is completely dark but the flash made it look like all the lights were on.

No flash here and two girls hiding behind a curtain.

With the flash on the camera.

Some relaxing time for Layne! She is in the secret bed watching a movie. Lucy was in and out and not doing much relaxing.

Does she look like she is up to something???? Or about to be?

What a great time with our granddaughters. We love them to pieces. Justin and Kristin are great parents. Layne and Lucy play together and listen so good. Sweet little ones. They are a gift from God and they brought a ton of joy to our home this weekend. Can't wait until next time!

California Dreamin' Jan. 2012

2012-01-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

The sisters got together for the weekend. We got to celebrate Patti and her success on the Daniel Plan together. We had so much fun together. We laughed a ton! That is such a good thing! I love them both so much!

Here is Patti 110 pounds lighter. We are on our way to the one year rally for the Daniel Plan at Patti's church. Both of my sisters have done great job losing weight. It is hard and they both did it. I am so proud of both of them!

Two silly ladies! SISTERS! Patti and DeeDee!

This is part of Saddleback Church. With the help of some professionals the church started on the Daniel Plan for health a year ago. This is an area of the church that is for the kids.

Walking up the steps to the rally. This church is huge. Even though it is huge it is very warm and welcoming.

Patti and Dr. Amen the brain doctor. He is one of the doctors that got this eating plan going. We could tell stories here couldn't we!

Pretty Patti!

This is the practice for those who were going on stage.

Patti and her friend Elizabeth.

The rally started with some praise music!

Pastor Rick Warren has lost some pounds too.

Here is Patti being introduced to the audience. They showed her before picture on the big screen!

All the weigh loss people on stage were asked to bring one item that they wore before the program started.

Wow! What a difference!

Billy Blanks was part of all this and helped people with their exercise program!

Dee-Dee and I got front row seats!

We got some great eating tips. The thing I remembered the most was planning ahead! Sunday plan your food for the week!

The rally was over and DD, Patti and I went to Patti's to watch the Saints game. As you probably know it did not have the ending we hoped for! We had fun watching together though. Just before the game was over we had to leave for my tattoo appointment in Newport Beach!

Our family tattoo guy, Rick, had my mother's name tattooed on his arm after she died. Lucy 25-09! He did a butterfly tattoo for her when she was in her seventies. He has done tattoos for Patti and her son Josh. We tried to talk Dee-Dee into getting one and I think she almost caved but after a conversation with her granddaughter she said no! She was there for moral support though.

Here it is 1/2 done.

Ok, the story behind the tattoo. Stephen (who as you know has ALS) did a promo picture for Team Gleason. In the picture he has the word Inspire written on his arm. Mike came home from New Orleans right before I left for CA and said Stephen believes his job now is to INSPIRE others to live their lives fully. He does inspire that is for sure. The eagles and the soar are for my favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 40:31. Those who hope in Lord with renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles. When an eagle soars they use none of their own power. When we trust God we get our power/strength from God. A tattoo for Stephen and for me. I think the two tie together perfectly!

Sunday the rest of the family came over for dinner. It was so good to see everyone. I went out and took some pictures of the view Patti has from her home.

Jessie hung out with me while I took pictures. Jessie is my nephew's daughter. What a cutie.

Grant is sitting on Jessie. Nice family picture.

See Jessie's hand? Patti, Jackie, and Sarah look a bit squished too.

Josh and Sean were at Patti's too. I can't believe I didn't get a picture of them. I will see if Dee Dee got one and add it. Monday came and it was time to go home. The morning started with a walk. Patti kicked my butt. Uphill like you can't believe. Patti did 4 miles and I stopped at 2 because I was concerned about being so sore I wouldn't be able to walk normally. After the killer walk I had to get my traditional California flip flops. Always get a pair when I am there. Dee-Dee, Patti and I headed to Jack's Surfboards via my old Newport Beach stomping grounds. Jack's is right by where I hung out when I lived in South CA.

The beach is just at the end of this street!

I was trying to get a picture out the back window of the beach. It was so fun playing and trying to get the picture I kept doing it. I snapped this happy picture of my sister Dee-Dee. She looks happy! Love this picture! Never got the beach but this is way better.

Had to get a quick shot of where Keri and Kristin were born. Hoag Memorial Hospital. I think this might be the parking garage and we actually made it into the hospital for their births!

What a great weekend. Nothing like hanging out with your sisters. I am so blessed to have the best sisters ever. We love each other and would be there for each other no matter what. I can't wait to see them again! Love you DeeDee and Patti!

Bald Eagles CDA, ID December 2011

2011-12-31T15:35:00.001-08:00

I have lived in Spokane (which is about 30 minutes from Coeur d' alene) for over 30 years. Mike and I have never made the trip over to Coeur d'alene, ID to see the bald eagles that arrive in the winter to eat the fish that have spawned in the lake. Now that I have made the trip I will do it every year. Mike and I left home about 7:00 AM and arrived at one of the viewing sites around 8:15. We stayed for 3 hours watching these amazing birds. 9-12 pound birds with a wingspan of 6 to 8 feet. The pictures really do not show how huge they are.

This is a young bird in the tree. It takes up to 4 years for all the white to appear on the bald eagles. Some of these pictures are blurry but I am including them anyway. The close up pictures I took through our spotting scope with my little point and shoot camera. The more picture I took the better I got so the pictures get clearer as you go along. The picture above and below were not taken through the scope.

This one was not taken through the scope.

Here is one of the first scope pictures. This eagle was about three or 4 blocks from us up in a tree.

Swooping down to get fish right in front of us.

Three in the air

Anytime a picture has the dark ring around the outside it was taken through the spotting scope.

This was taken through the scope and the thing around Mr. Eagle's beak was actually on the lens of the scope.

The back end of an eagle. Can you find him?

Here is the ranger that helped us learn about the eagles. The banner is a model of life size adult eagle. Huge wing span!

A section of Lake Coeur d' alene! This was the viewing area. There were a lot of birds roosting off to the left in the trees!

Bald Eagles everywhere!

These are what the eagles came for!

I told you the pictures got better!!!

I know this picture is blurry but he was so big I had to add it to the blog!

When were first came to this viewing area there were about 6 of us. It got pretty crowded by the time we left! This picture was taken about an hour into our time there.

Can you find all 6 eagles?

When Mike found this eagle through the scope I had to take a picture! You can see all of his individual feathers!

I think these eagles are looking at all the people wondering what we are doing.

Look closely and you can see a fish hanging below the branch!

Just as we were getting ready to leave we heard a gun shot in the distance. Then another one. (Still duck hunting season). The eagles took off out of the trees. We thought there were about 50 eagles in the area but we soon found out that was a low estimate. Take a look at how the numbers grow in these pictures. There were a few birds in the group that weren't eagles but not many!

Look at all the dark spots!

3 hours flew by. What a great place to live! Not only do we have an abundance of wildlife and beautiful scenery we have great coffee! Some lunch and coffee hit the spot. It was chilly out watching the eagles.

Mike loves his food!

I am reading a good book about how great God really is. I know I take my surroundings for granted way too often. Just being outdoors today in such a beautiful spot surrounded by such beautiful creatures reminded me of just how GREAT God is. Greater than we can even imagine! We are so thankful for all of it!

First Day of the Season

2011-12-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

It had been raining in Spokane. We knew that it had rained at the ski hill but we were hoping for soft snow. Sunny skies were a plus too. This is the parking lot at 49 degrees north! Slick but we thought for sure the snow would soften up as the temperature rose.

We saw Jason and his family in the lodge before we started skiing. I took several pictures of these two guys and Jason's eyes were closed every time. So Mike did his usual craziness...

He grabbed Jason and said take this picture! Well, Jason's eyes were open at least. That is why we call him CRAZY MIKE.

Oh Christmas tree oh Christmas tree. Pretty tree in the lodge!

First time my skis touched the snow this season. I was waiting for Mike trying to think of things to take pictures of. Snow doesn't look too bad does it!

Mike getting ready outside after getting partially ready inside!

Taking a few more pictures. A beautiful day isn't it!

The 49 logo on the chair lift!

We are finally on our way up the mountain!

A little narration as we ride the chair lift!

Here are some kids learning to race!

Hmmm! A little fog rolling in. No one else up on the top. At least not very many others! Kind of nice.

Hi Mike!

There are these big metal bells on the trees all over the place at 49. This one is at the top of the mountain. You can use it to measure how much snow there is. Some years you have to reach down to ring the bell because there is so much snow. The idea is to keep skiing, not run into the tree, and use your pole to ring the bell. Now you have to reach up to ring it. We need more snow!

We only took a few runs today. The snow never did soften up. The clouds rolled in the temperature didn't change much. We took a run down one of the faces of the mountain, rode the chair lift up and headed for the same run and it was closed. We assume because it was too icy and dangerous. I really wanted to ski more but no need to injure myself on the first day up. When we left everyone else seemed to be leaving too. We had fun though. Nice drive, a few runs, lunch and home early! Let it snow!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T16:32:00.000-08:00

What!!! No white Christmas??? Didn't look like we were going to have one but Mother Nature surprised us Christmas Eve. We didn't get a lot of snow but we got enough for it to count as a white Christmas!

Huge snow flakes!

I didn't do a very good job of taking pictures this year. That doesn't happen often. Got a few though. Katie opening her Christmas sock from Santa. Sure was great to have Katie home for a day or so. She makes me smile and laugh. I love you Katie!

The tree!

Mike with his new belt. He examines everything very carefully. The nose strip is a nice touch!

I got nice red dishes. Love them. They aren't quite as bright as they appear in this picture.

We had our traditional cinnamon rolls and scrabbled eggs for breakfast. The eggs are missing on this plate!

Our friends Trisha and Jay came over for dinner in the evening as did Mike's mom Leola. It was great to have them all.

Layne and Lucy arrived in their jammies. So cute!

Mike and I got the girls remote control John Deere tractors. Mike cleared a space in the basement so they could drive them all over.

We had a great Christmas. Mike cooked a delicious prime rib. I cooked potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pies (also delicious). The best part of Christmas was the fact that we were celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ! Thank you God for sending him to save us!

The Many Faces of Lucy

2011-12-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

I watched Lucy while Kristin had a booth at a craft show a few weeks back. Kristin did great. We did too. Here she is snuggling with grandpa!

Of course my camera was out and Lucy enjoyed every minute of the picture taking. "Take a picture of me Grandma"! She is a girl of many faces!

Cute smile! Totally posed but cute!

She got the dogs involved in the photo shoot! Rocky didn't mind a bit.

Bear was indifferent! He looked the other way every time she came near but he put up with it.

She had Bear trapped.

Kisses for Rocky.

Bear looks strained here.

Ah Rocky is so easy.

Finally a candid shot. Both the girls love this track!

We had fun hanging out together! Can't wait to do it again!

Are You Ready for Some Monday Night Football!

2011-12-01T21:11:00.001-08:00

Monday night football and we are on the field at the Superdome! Last time we did this we had to leave before the game started. This time we were able to stay for the whole game. Kind of fun! I got to see the game of football from a new perspective! I could hear the coaches talking to the players, the players talking to each other and I learned about the pictures they take of every play and more! Stephen answered all my questions about what was going on behind the scenes! Thanks Skeve! This is Mike with one of the defensive coaches.

Some of the other people on the field grabbed Stephen for some pictures. Fans!

Mike is talking to Peter King. He is a writer for Sports Illustrated. I guess we should have know who he was but Mike and I hadn't heard of him. He didn't know that though.

US! Someone could have told me my Saints was crooked on my hat.

Posed picture of Peter King and Mike!

If Mike gets a picture I thought I should too. Thanks Peter.

Joe Horn, a former Saints player, talking with Stephen!

We are sitting on the players bench before the game. We didn't get to hang out on the bench after the game started but we stood right behind the bench!

I am with Stephen's good friend Thad! Fun guy!

On the left is Mickey Loomis the GM of the Saints. He was very welcoming

I don't know this guys name but he spent quite a bit of time talking with Stephen. He played for the Saints when Stephen did.

Eli Manning warming up.

It is hard to get the front of these guys because they don't face the sidelines. I didn't think it would be a good thing to walk onto the field.

Ah here we go!

Drew Brees!

The long snapper and kicker!

Mike and Steve strolling down the sideline!

Coach Payton is still on crutches! It made me nervous during the game. Too close to the sidelines.

Warming up! That's a lot of Saints!

Mike and Steve were headed into the locker room right before the game. Just as we were getting to the locker room we saw Kenny Chesney. Thad is a big fan. Thad shook Kenny's hand and tried to speak but it was barely understandable. It was funny! I guess Tim McGraw was with him but I missed seeing him. DARN!

I was waiting in a chair outside the locker room sitting by Coach Payton's cart. My temptation was to sit in it and turn it on and maybe even take it for a spin. I don't think I would have gotten very far because there were 3 large security men right by me. I think they were there to keep me out of the Saint's locker room.

The officials have arrived!

The players started filing out to head to the field. I am still in my chair but now things are a little more interesting.

We strolled onto the field with the boys! :-)

This was where we stood most of the time. Mike actually went down with the photographers toward the end of the field. He was right on the sideline.

Roman Harper was a cheerleader the whole game. Fun to watch!

I wanted to say down in front to these two but I wasn't sure it was the right thing to so. :-) I thought I might get banned from the players bench so I zipped my lip!

Right after each set of downs Drew Brees headed right back to the bench to check out the photos that we taken and to talk it up with the coach!

Mike has his photographer pass on his arm. Sean the guy that takes tons of pictures and video for Steve and Michel gave it to him to use so he could get down with the photographers and have a better view of the game.

A defensive strategy session.

Mr. Brees watching the big screen!

The defensive line! Big guys!

Here is an action shot. This was from Mike's perspective. I let him have the camera for a bit. If you know about Mike and my camera that was a big deal, giving it to him. :-)

More strategy talk!

This is the back up quarterback with Drew Brees. How would you like to be Drew Brees' backup! His uniform is nice and clean!

Drew Brees scored a rushing TD and then tried to spike the ball over the goal posts. It was funny because he had to jump and throw it over. I think this is right after he did that. When he came back to the bench the players were laughing and having fun with the spike!

Amazing receiver Graham!

Time to look at the photos of the last set of downs. I was kind of fascinated by how fast they took the photos of the plays and how they kept them organized. Steve asked someone to bring me a book with the photos in it. Wow! I could coach football now I am sure!

More players. When you are down on the field you feel it is necessary to take pictures over and over of everyone so we did!

Mike took this picture! Shocked aren't you! I looked down toward Mike's spot on the field and I didn't see him. I did see one of the professional photographers taking a picture with a small little camera. I was a ways away but thought it looked like my camera. What was this pro doing with a point and shoot? I could see a couple of cheerleaders and thought that was who the pro was taking pictures of. Why my camera? I didn't seem Mike but my next thought was Mike was with the cheerleaders. Check out the next picture. I was right!

Little height difference between Graham and Brees!

Brees warms up a little right before he goes back into the game. He never catches the ball though. The gentleman on the left catches it and gives it to Brees. Protecting those hands!

I thought I was taking a picture of the final score but the Saints scored one more time. Great game. We got to experience the game from a whole new perspective. We were very fortunate to be able to watch the game from the field. Thanks Stephen for letting us share this experience with you! We loved it! And we love you!

Back at Steve and Michel's house. We were leaving early the AM. So hard to leave all the Gleasons! Steve wanted a three generation picture of the Gleason guys. Love this one with them both looking at precious little Rivers.

This is a wonderful picture too. Generations of Gleason's. Glad I am part of their lives.

The trip to New Orleans was ending. We were sad to leave. It was wonderful to see all the support Michel and Steve have. They are safe and secure in New Orleans hands but most of all in God's hands. Keep praying for them We believe miracles happen! PRAYING ALWAYS! Love you guys!

Gleason Gras 2011

2011-12-01T19:07:00.001-08:00

I want you all to know that most of these pictures were stolen from Keri! I took a lot of the same pictures but hers just look so much better I couldn't resist. Thanks Keri!

Wow! What an event! At least 4,000 people came out to support Stephen, Michel and Rivers! The money raised went to the Gleason Family Trust and to ALS research! We need that cure! So many activities happening in Champion Square. There were bands! The gentleman with the microphone is Paul Varisco, Michel's dad.

Julie Varisco on the right, Vinnie's wife and Michel's sister in law!

This event filled all of Champion Square right outside the Superdome!

Sweet little Rivers sleeping through all the noise, cheering, and music!

This is part of the crowd. Keri is taking the picture inside the VIP area and the bands are to her back!

The VIP area also included a room with beautiful lighting. Fancy furniture too.

The VIP room had different restaurants from New Orleans serving up yummy food all around the perimeter of the room.

An auction for several different things. I bid on the Kyle Turley jersey for my sister but the bidding got a little steep for my budget!

Every football was unique. Different signatures but all of the signatures were Saints players. $200.00 for a ball!

Sean Payton and Drew Brees signed guitar. It is a raffle and I think the raffle tickets are on sale on the Saints website.

The favorite Saint!

More auction items!

Fancy jacket. We saw all kinds of Saints garb!

Look closely at this picture. Can you see Stephen's signature in the middle of the picture. Can you see the statue under the signature? That statue of the blocked punt is being made and will sit right in front of the Superdome! That blocked punt really was huge to New Orleans!

More bands. I didn't get the name of all of them! That security guard in the yellow jacket looks a little scary!

Keri took these pictures right when we got to the event. The crowd was gathering.

There was a kids area. Fun football things for the little ones to try!

Gotta have our pictures with Dree Brees. Ok, it wasn't the real Drew Brees!

Keri's media pass given to her by one of the kind photographers at the event!

Mike, Jackie, Kyle!

Stephen talked to many people who came and were fighting ALS. This was so moving to me. Steve was so encouraging to all these people and he listened so carefully to what they had to say. Tears! Steve really does have a calling to encourage, inspire, and love people!

Jill Varisco, Michel's mom, Keri, Mike, Jackie, and Kyle!

This is a bigger picture of the VIP room. It got pretty cold outside so it was nice to be able to come inside and warm up!

There were different sayings on the glass pillars!

Sweet Michel! She is inspiring because she is so giving! Also, Michel has more energy than anyone I know. Take care of yourself Michel!

AHHH! Baby Rivers!

Kyle Turley (former Saint) sang at Gleason Gras. He is good!

More pictures of the crowd. Can't remember what everyone was looking at! Maybe Keri does. She took the picture!

Steve talking with a smiling lady who has been diagnosed with ALS!

More inspiration and encouragement from Stephen!

Favorite sticker ever!

Here are some pictures of family and friends!

There is so much love between these two brothers. They are a team and for as long as I have been part of their lives that has been the case.

OK, the start of the mustache contest! Stephen, Kyle and William

What do you think of this mustache?

HMMM! A lady with a mustache? Something is up here! Kyle is giving the situation his full attention.

Some more of the contestants!

Ah, the lady mustache is drawn on. Disqualified! Stephen and William picked the two finalists and then the crowd chose the winner!

Lilly wanted to be involved in the contest. She is one of River's cousins. Pretty darn cute!

Paul's mustache looks pretty good I would say but he is part of the family so disqualified!

Give it up for your favorite mustache!

Great band here. Wish I knew their name.

Rockin' Keri!

Along with all the fun came a lot of emotions. Part of me wished Gleason Gras never had to happen. No t-shirts, no bands, no food. Thinking that doesn't change anything so it was important to be in the moment and think about all the good that was happening at Gleason Gras! I remember telling Stephen this summer how sorry I was that he was going through this. He said, "It is what it is"! That is the truth. Stephen has been a great example for all of us and has shown us how important it is to live life the best you can no matter what. This little girl really touched our hearts. She had a card with the Saints logo she had made on the front. Inside it said, "Don't worry God is with you". AMEN little one. You said it all. I looked at Kyle and Keri and saw their tears and felt my own coming on. We hugged!

Julie and Keri! Beauties. Between Keri and I there are no pictures of Hilary! Sorry Hilary. Hilary is Michel's sister-in-law also!

Here is my pass that Jill was so kind to give me.

Someone, Keri and Kyle! :-)

The elder Gleasons!

Mike and Kyle! They look alike don't they!

Here is Stephen talking to the kicker for the Saints!

Michel and Stephen!

This is Kyle and his cousin.

A little chat with Drew Brees!

Drew Brees and his wife with Stephen and Michel!

Keri found someone with the Cougar Team Gleason shirt on! Love her expression. I wonder why Ryland and Easton like to make funny faces at the camera???

HAHA

Yes, Patti this is Kyle Turley and Jackie again!

More family!

Mike and Vinnie ( Michel's brother)!

Sean Payton was at Gleason Gras. He closed it up with some words about Stephen and knocking out ALS.

What a day. Gleason Gras was from 11 AM to 6 PM. It went fast. The New Orleans community has really rallied around Stephen and Michel. Michel's family is doing so much too. They are a wonderful family and I am happy I know them! I pray for Stephen everyday. It doesn't do any good to ask WHY? There is no answer to that but sometimes it is hard not to go there. Sometimes I can't help sobbing. Someone can just mention my family and the tears come. I think the tears are important and real! Most of the time though I think about how Michel and Stephen are living their life. If you just watch them you will see determination, inspiration, and fight! There is no givin' up in those two. I love you both and am so proud of the people you are.

An Afternoon with the Saints

2011-12-01T18:37:00.001-08:00

While I was hanging out with Rivers, which I totally enjoyed, Stephen, Keri, Mark, Ryland and Easton went to watch the Saints practice. Pretty neat experience for all of them.

AHHH, the blocked punt!

After practice the family got into a little football action themselves.

What a neat guy Drew Brees is. He came over to the family and played some catch with them! He thought Keri was a "natural". All the adults mentioned that they really didn't want to drop a ball that Drew Brees threw to them. I don't think any of them did!

Go out for the long one from Drew, Mike!

Easton with open arms waiting for that ball.

After some catch with Drew Brees everyone went and had some food at the Saints facility. They feed the players after each practice!

What a spread!

Easton looks like he is really enjoying that ice cream. Who wouldn't!

Yum!

Dig in Mike!

What a great experience for all. Thanks Stephen for taking them to the Saint's practice and thanks Drew Brees for the game of catch! The family was thrilled!

A Day with Rivers

2011-11-27T18:02:00.001-08:00

Every morning we headed down to the lobby for a nice free breakfast. Waffles, pancakes, oatmeal, bagels, toast, juice and anything else you can think of. The boys are waiting for their breakfast. We really enjoyed getting to spend so much time with the Doolittle family!

Ryland is playing games on Keri's phone. One game he likes to play is a country game. You get clues and have to guess the right country. He was working South America!

Smile for the camera Easton. He has my Saints Santa hat on. What a character!

Mike can make friends with anyone. He spent at least 15 minutes learning all about these people. They were in New Orleans for the Grambling game.

Easton was totally fascinated with this lamp. He could see himself and would make faces and move around so he could see how the lamp distorted his image.

Off to Stephen's and Michel's after breakfast. Michel wanted to run some errands and asked if I would watch Rivers! YES!

So precious!

Keri, Mark, the boys, Mike and Stephen were at the Saints facility playing catch with Drew Brees. When they got back I had to share Rivers.

Rivers was a huge hit with the boys. Easton was helping Keri feed Rivers.

Ryland got to hold "Baby Rivers". He loved it. Both the boys loved little Rivers. They talked about him a lot.

Ryland got to help lay Rivers down in his little bed. He was so excited about it. On the ride back to the hotel Ryland said over and over again how excited he was about putting Rivers to bed and that he had never gotten to put a baby to bed before. So cute. Tomorrow is Gleason Gras! More pictures to come for sure!

Friday in NOLA

2011-11-25T17:26:00.001-08:00

Friday at the race track. I think I have only been to the race track one other time. This race track has a place for the kids to play and run around. The Variscos were all there! So were the Gleasons and Doolittles.

The finish!

Race number one. These horses are beautiful! Strong and fast!

We watched the first two races and then decided to try our hand at making a bet. I followed Mark inside. He had picked a horse by its name. I was going to bet on the same horse because I had no clue what I was doing. Mark said NO, don't bet on the same horse I did. He gave me two numbers that he thought were OK horses. I picked number 4. The odds ended up being 11-1. I bet 5 dollars.

And guess what! I won $61.00. Good time to stop if you ask me. The horse came from the back of the pack and won the race!

The little boys played some football! So cute!

I think there is a little negotiation going on here!

Mark placed a bet on number 12 in one race. Ryland requested that. Mark is showing him the ticket and I am sure he is explaining the finer points when it comes to betting on horses. Number 12 did not win!

Pretty cool. The kids get to pet the horses. The horses are guided up to the fence. The kids loved it!

After a couple of hours at the track we went back to the Varisco's to watch the LSU game. The whole gang went there. The Varisco's have been so gracious inviting us into their home.

Stephen and Rivers.

This is Caroline! Hillary and Paulie's youngest girl. She was born a month early so she is tiny.

This is a drumming session. The kids discovered that this end table was tin. They all had a great time drumming on it! Wow! Mark played a drum game. The one who stopped fastest when he signaled won! Then the kids did very quiet drumming! I liked that game!

Back to the hotel after the game! Another great day! Praise the Lord.

Thanksgiving 2011 in NOLA

2011-11-25T05:19:00.001-08:00

Well, here he is! Rivers V. Gleason

There have already been a lot of highlights here in New Orleans but little Rivers tops the list! He is precious!

We arrived very early on Thanksgiving morning. Our flight landed at 1:00 AM. We got a few hours of sleep and headed over to Michel and Stephen's. We went with Keri, Mark, Easton, and Ryland. Ryland and Easton found the helmet cam! They could hardly hold their heads up with the helmet on!

Easton looked like he was going to fall over!

Mike was in charge of cooking the turkey. He loves cooking! He is watching his creation in the oven!

OK, the weather was much warmer in NOLA. Squirt gun wars seemed like a good thing to do. Ryland and Easton's guns were filled.

Little did we know that we would become targets of the spray of water! I guess we should have known.

These boys look so sweet here but they were out to get their mom and grandma!

Rivers! Snoozing!

Fun, fun, fun!

So sweet getting to hold him and feed him.

Rivers meet your grandpa Mike!

Here is Stephen and Michel's house. It is long and narrow. Bigger than it looks. Cute house.

When the turkey was done we had to pack it over to the Varisco's. Dinner was at their house. Not exactly sure why Mike didn't cook it there! It all worked out. Mr. Turkey rode in the back of the car!

This is the view from Stephen and Michel's house. A bayou. They got married on that bridge!

The chef delivered the turkey safe and sound!

Michel is pointing to where the water settled after Katrina. The picture was up on that mantle. They had the bottom half restored!

Two beauties!

Keri kept stealing Rivers from me! Just three minutes she would say but I guess she doesn't know how to tell time because three minutes came and went!

Mark and Rivers!

The kids table for Thanksgiving!

Paul did the turkey carving!

The private school that Michel's nephews go to raised some money for the Gleason Trust! Very cool! This was in the Varisco's house.

Time to dish up! Hillary and Mike getting dinner!

Mark and Mike waiting for everyone so they can get started!

Here is everyone (Mike is taking the picture). What a great family we were able to share Thanksgiving with!

Caroline is the baby on the left. She was born a month early and weighed 5 ish pounds. He is healthy and beautiful! Caroline is Rivers cousin!

The kids were playing with some Fisher Price toys. There were little Fisher Price people. We kept hearing how Michel loved to play with the people. Turns out she named everyone of them. She had a chart with their names and more information about each one. She even made them backpacks with papers inside. She is holding a backpack! The rest of the backpacks are right on the table. Unreal! Talk about and organized persistant child!

It was a good Thanksgiving. Lots of kids, family, and laughter. Good food too! Thanks so much to the Variscos!

2011-11-19T15:16:00.001-08:00

Another year has zoomed by! Jingle Bell Run/Walk has come around again. Weather? Snow, snow, snow and in the 20's. There is just something about snow that makes me feel so good. Winter is my favorite time of the year. I took a lot of pictures in River Park Square before the fun but for some reason they were blurry or dark. This one of Denise and Sheila is a happy picture. Glad it turned out OK.

Teachers, teachers, everywhere! What fun it is to have such an active group of friends!

Another picture just for good measure!

I know you aren't supposed to have Christmas stuff up before Thanksgiving but isn't it beautiful. Today I was listening to Positive Life Radio. They were talking about this very thing. They said it isn't so bad to have Christmas decorations around the stores because it is a time to be thankful and what better thing to be thankful for than Christ's birth.

We stayed inside River Park Square until right before it was time to start walking! Baby its cold outside!

Mr. Polar Bear looks a little worn out!

This was a first! They certainly were the center of attention!

Yummmm!

Sheila and I with two of Santa's elves before the start!

They really did do the run like this! Nuts! It was in the 20s! They need a little talkin' to from their moms!

The crowd is lining up and ready to go. Sheila and I have totally lost the rest of the gang!

Lots of different costumes around. When I see them all I think, "I should do that next year!" So far I haven't.

The dogs were even dressed up!

Ready, set, go.

Hi Sheila! Why don't you climb on in!

Lots of runners and walkers!

AHHH! The coffee tradition! Love it. We went to Rocket Bakery for a muffin and some hot coffee!

Deanna, Dave and Nicholas joined us too! It is hard to pass up this coffee tradition!

Sorry about capturing you eating Dave but it was the only picture I took of you!

Now the big decision is whether or not to do the Frostbite Footrace in January up in Deer Park. This is how it will go I bet. After being out in the cold today we were thinking we wouldn't do it. A few weeks will go by and we will forget and end up signing up! I know a good coffee shop in Deer Park! :-)

A Special Cougar Game

2011-11-13T11:29:00.001-08:00

Family, friends, and Cougs joined in honoring Stephen at the Cougar game last night. It was an awesome tribute to the person he is and has always been. I read the things he writes and listen to things he talks about and know he is gifted and impacts everyone he is around. He has amazing insight. Along with all of the celebrations, news articles, and television clips comes the hard stuff. The tears, the asking why! The tears come and they go. We have faith! Faith in a big God that does miracles! Moves mountains! We believe, believe that Stephen can be healed. We pray for that everyday! Live life! Make the most of everyday!

Friday night we drove down to Pullman to have a dinner with Stephen, family, and close friends. It was neat to feel the love and support that was in the air. Lots of reunions. Here is Mike with the Theilmans!

Stephen with his buddies! I bet these guys share a lot of interesting adventures and stories.

Father and Son! 2 handsome guys! We had a good time Friday night. We headed back to Spokane after the dinner. We had snowy roads and lots of wind. Old Man Winter is sneaking up on us.

We had about 12 tickets to the game. Saturday afternoon we met up with everyone we had invited to the game and carpooled down to Pullman. Lots of tailgate food was along for the ride. Sheila came prepared! Toe warmers. About half way through the trip it started to snow. Then rain, then snow! We thought we might get by with a dry stadium but we didn't.

Cheryl all smiles as usual!

As we drove into Pullman we saw Steve Gleason everywhere!

The snow kept coming down. The tailgate party was canceled but fortunately we were able to go to the place where the dinner was held Friday night and hang out there. Much nicer than standing in the cold for several hours!

Part of the group that came with us to watch the game.

I big smile on Stephen's face. Looks good doesn't it!

Jay and Trisha always take such good pictures together. This was there 1st Cougar game. They got the snow experience with the game too!

Mike and I. I am always cold it seems like. I stayed pretty warm at this game. It might be because I have 6 layers of clothing on. Really! Coat under the sweater!

Warm up time!

Steve and Jennifer Doolittle came with us. They have invited us to so many nice events I was glad they were able to join us at the game!

Both teams doing some warm up!

Stephen was honored right before the game at the Cougar flag raising.

There were tons of cameras and reporters! Wow!

Mike and Stephen are watching some clips of Stephen playing at WSU. I think the Saints blocked punt was in the too!

Thanks Rian for the picture! I really like this picture of Mike and of Stephen! I had a hard time seeing around all these tall people!

The flag went up and the crowd cheered!

Play Ball! Wrong sport I know!

The crowd was given these cards with Steve's Cougar number on it.

Everyone raised the cards at the same time and there were more pictures of Stephen on the big screen. It was quite a moment! Pretty emotional.

Go Cougs!

Jay was dancing to the band!

We were all bundled up in our 6 layers of clothing. Remember Sheila's toe warmers??? Well, she needed a dryer not toe warmers. Her boots leaked and her feet were frozen. The boots just kept absorbing water. Miserable. When we got back to the car and she took her boots off her feet were blue. No kidding! I have never seen anything like it. Cheryl was shivering too so the car was a wonderful place to be!

Great game! The Cougs won! Wooohooo!

The First Rifle Blast

2011-11-13T09:50:00.001-08:00

I mentioned to Mike one afternoon that I had never shot a rifle and would like to try. Boy, did the ball start rolling. Justin let me borrow a rifle he had that would be just right for my first attempt. Mike started looking at tree stands online and picked one out that would be just right for me. I just wanted to try it! I don't see myself becoming a big game hunter! One Sunday afternoon we went down to the rifle range in Spokane.

Here is my set up with the 22-250 Justin let me borrow. I have no idea what those numbers mean.

Targets for me were 100 yards away.

Mike was a great teacher. He took it step by step slowing giving me the reins a little at a time.

So I got the cross hairs lined up with the orange bulls eye and pulled the trigger. I jumped just a bit because I really didn't know what to expect. Mike looked in the spotting scope to see where my first shot landed.

See the sticker (looks like a mini bulls eye) on the bottom right side of the bulls eye is where my first shot landed. Needless to say I was pretty excited. This shooting thing is fun! I had a few wild shots but I think I did OK for the first time.

Once I knew what I was doing Mike left and went to the 200 yard area. Look at the beautiful setting. Right next to the Spokane River.

TA DA!

Here is the sharp shooter in action!

Thanks Mike for teaching me how to shoot a rifle. We did head out to Cabelas on Sunday afternoon and looked a rifles for me. What will the future hold?

Pumpkin Pacer 2011

2011-10-29T21:21:00.000-07:00

It is that time again. Time for the Pumpkin Pacer 5k in Deer Park. This time Kristin and the girls joined the gang! A unicorn and a horse. Almost everyone dresses up in costumes. Fun time on a beautiful fall day!

Cowgirl Jackie with the horse and unicorn!

The crowd was gathered around the t-shirt pick up!

Deanna the elephant!

Kristin with Lucy!

OK here we are! Back row left to right...Kristin, Deanna, Sheila, Cheryl, Aimee, Kristen. Bottom is Lucy, Layne and me.

Deanna, Cheryl, Aimee, Kristen and Aimee's aunt

Where's Waldo...Waldo is with Sheila

Gotta love the cowgirl belt with boots on it.

Lesley and her son Mateo

These guys crack me up. John and Cheryl and family are the best posers for pictures ever!

Lovin' the wig Kristin!

So cute. Don't you love the Black Eyed P!

Off they go!

Oh my! That is a large person!

Notice the guy with an ax through his head carrying a small dalmatian. Scary.

Mile 1 and we still know where Waldo is!

Nice face Jackie!

The ax again!

Kristin had a big job when they were both in the stroller. That wasn't often though because Layne wanted to run!

Two cuties at mile TWO!

Come on! Don't you want to go fast! I want to win!

Kristin said, "What is wrong with this picture?"

Almost there!

You made it Lucy!

Yehaw! A cowgirl and her horse!

The girls shirts!

Cute!
Deanna and Dave! I took the picture right into the sun. You can still tell it is Deanna and Dave though! I have to break Dave into this picture thing slowly!

Really, I didn't think the shirts could get any brighter than last year. They did.

Playing with the straws

Here is is! The prized shirt!

Little Lucy!

What a fun morning. Of course we got our usual coffee after the race. Love that tradition. Nothing better than visiting with Cheryl and Sheila. After coffee we said goodbye to Layne, Lucy and Kristin. We headed into Spokane and made a stop at Big R. I had to take a cowboy hat back that I bought (not the one I was wearing today). Cheryl and Sheila found a new place to shop. Who knew Big R had such fun stuff. Great day and great company!

A Day in the Life has Moved

2011-08-01T22:28:00.001-07:00

I am switching my blog address. This one will stay live forever! :-) but all new posts will be at the new address. Click below to see my new posts. More to come!

New Blog

Chelanman Triathlon June 17, 2011

2011-07-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

Last year the Try a Tri and this year the Sprint Triathlon. We pulled into Chelan to meet the gang for lunch on Saturday and were greeted by a cloudy day and even some rain. I think the rain would have been OK with us for our race on Sunday as long as the lake was calm and didn't have ocean like waves like it did last year. Tradition? I think so. Tin Lilly was our lunch spot again this year. Yummy food!

Mark sat on Sheila's 5 dollar sunglasses so she bought some new ones for 50 dollars. Bet Mark will check where he sits from now on! :-) You look stunning in those new shades Sheila!
The lunch bunch!

After lunch packet pick up! Instructions, shirt, timing chips, numbers. Last year this was a big event because it was the first try at a triathlon. This year...still a big event.

Emily and Trisha and the shirts!
Now racking the bike time! If you had an 800 number you had no place to rack your bike. That is why I am standing wondering what is going on. The correction was made quickly and my bike had a home!
What makes this triathlon so fun is all the friends that do it together!

How many people does it take...we are checking the gears on my bike to make sure it was ready for the uphill climb that started the bike ride. Just a short little hill really but gearing is important.
Done! Bike in place!
I am not sure what we are looking at here. Pondering life? Watching someone in our group in the bike area?? We seem to be mesmerized by something.
Sheila is done racking her bike too!
And so are Emily and Rick!
Here are discussing our strategies for the big race and what we will do with our prize money. Or we could be deciding where to go to dinner.
Awesome friends! Mike isn't in the picture because he was the official photographer. He may have found a new calling! Thanks Mike!
The red buoy marks the end of the 1/2 mile swim!
Killing some time before the mandatory meeting for all triathletes. That is what we are...triathletes! You can tell just by looking right! :-)
A room with a view. This is our hotel. It is right at the site of the start and finish of the triathlon. Very convenient.
Another view from the room. Lake Chelan is absolutely beautiful. Crystal clear water surrounded by spectacular scenery.

The bike racks are filling up!
Off to dinner! The corners where you cross the busy street have flags for people to use so drivers will notice you crossing. Jay was the flagger!
Fine job getting the ladies across safely!
Dinner! Why or why do I always feel the need to eat whatever I feel like eating the night before a triathlon or any event like that. I know I will burn most of it off but being stuffed is not comfortable. Sheila and Mike lovin' life!
The gangs all here except for the official photographer!
Now the gangs all here.
I split that giant thing with Mike. See what I mean by eating so much. Although I do think I got the smaller half. Mike cut it so I should have picked which half I wanted. I guess Mike doesn't know that rule because he picked which half I got. :-) The smaller half was just fine because it wasn't small at all.

Reading the Good Book! The best book ever for sure. The Bible!

We woke up Sunday morning to a beautiful day. The water was smooth and ready for the swimmers. Whew! We were relieved. None of us wanted a repeat of the swim conditions last year.

The athletes are gathering and setting up the things they need for their transitions.

We are all ready to go. I so so so much wanted to have a decent swim this time. Emily is a star swimmer and she is ready to go. I am sure Trisha is giving her a fabulous pep talk!
In the water for some warm up for me.
I really like swimming a lot. I felt good about the swim to come because of the practicing swimming across Medical Lake we had done.
Sheila always rocks the swim!
The swimmer girls!
Wave number one. Emily is out there somewhere!

Sheila, Rick and I are in wave 3! We are waiting with smiles on our faces!
Wave 3. We are swimming right up in front I am sure! Can you see us!

Jay getting ready for his swim. He looks like he is still dry. Come on Jay jump in!
Emily is done swimming!

And getting ready for the bike!

Sheila is on her way too!
Rick is ready to ride!
Swim done for Jackie. I was very happy with my swim!

Transition time for me. Have you ever tried to get socks on your feet when your tootsies are wet? And to do it quickly??? Not an easy feat. haha. I know I should ditch the socks but not yet.
Exiting the transition area!

Off I go!
Wow! Impressive. This man pedals with his arms. He only has one leg! Amazing what people can accomplish!
We all made it through the swim. The conditions were so much better than last year. Smooth water! Not giant waves. The race director talked about canceling the swim or giving the athletes the choice of swimming if the conditions got like last years!

Jay in transition with some help from Trisha. Of course you can't really help physically but moral support is allowed!
Off Jay goes to speed through the bike course.
Rick is off to run! Done with the bike!
I am off to walk the 3.1 miles very quickly. I was wishing I was able to run when I started this portion. Maybe it is time for that new knee joint! Too scary!
Emily and Trisha competed as a team. Trisha is finishing up the run! Zoom!
Here comes Rick across the finish!
And Jay! Done!
Sheila is dashing to the end of the race. I know it is not a race!
Jackie is a happy camper. Chelanman number 2 completed.

We are still smiling afterwards. Good times with good friends!

The line up!
Does this picture look a little posed! We still look good though don't we?

Yippee! We did it! Just goes to show you that you don't have to be a spring chicken to do these triathlons! 10 years from now will we still be doing the Chelanman? Time will tell.
The youngsters do a Splash and Dash after all the big kids are finished.
Our official photographer took some parting shots of the lake!

I thank God for the great friends Mike and I have. We are blessed to have them in our lives. We train together, share life's events together, and laugh together. I am thankful and blessed that I have the ability to complete these triathlons too. Thank you Jesus it is all YOU!

Valley Girl Triathlon 2011

2011-07-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

I realized last night there would be no picture taking at the Valley Girl Triathlon. Disturbing. How would I blog? Steve, Michel, and Shawn to the rescue. They came camera in hand to watch the finish! Lots of pictures of me because Steve, Michel and Shawn didn't know the rest of the gang! Here I come to the finish line.
I still have some energy to wave!
Almost there!
Done! It is such a great feeling to complete one of these triathlons. I don't do it with blazing speed but I get it done.
Excited to be finished that is for sure.
It is even more fun to do these triathlons with good friends! We work out together and do the events together. All at our own pace and we meet at end.

I guess I am a happy person here! I think this picture is a true representation of how I felt finishing another tri!

Nice pink shirts that say "Girls Rock" on them! I like the shirts! It is all about the shirt after all. :-)

It was so very cool to have family there at the end of the tri cheering me on! It made the race even more special. It made my day! Thanks for coming to help me across the finish line Steve, Michel and Shawn!
Really! Thanks for being there you were great cheer leaders and photographers! I will never forget it!
Steve got a video of me finishing the triathlon! Love it!

A great day with great friends. We all finished and I think everyone was feeling pretty good about their time. We always discuss what we need to work on for next time. There is always something for sure. If I keep doing this for 10 more years I might just have it down!

Motorcycle Mama Michel

2011-07-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

Michel wanted to take a ride with Mike on his motorcycle! She didn't have any gear so she borrowed mine. She is pregnant and is due in October and still fit in my clothes with room to spare. Love the leggings with the leather jacket!Come on Mike get that thing warmed up. Michel was excited and very cute in all that motorcycle clothing. She even had Harley boots. What a natural.
Of course everything around here has to be documented so a picture before they take off!
Here they go! Wooohooooo Michel and Mike!
Click here to see the Wild Hogs depart!

July 4th 2011 Part Two

2011-07-09T11:47:00.001-07:00

We spent the second half of the 4th of July with Justin, Kristin, Layne, Lucy and other family! We were the first ones there so we got some time with the gang all by ourselves. Layne was way more interested in Kobe than Grandma and Grandpa. Lucy was her usual spunky self!
Kobe really just wanted to hang around me with all the activity going on!
Layne thought Kobe might like the barn kitties they have. He was indifferent. The cats didn't care much about him either.

Roy is getting big! Very well behaved dog!
Lucy watching all the action!
So is Grandpa Mike.Justin in his BBQ mode! Yummy burgers and hot dogs. Perfect for the 4th!
Kristin showed Lucy how to use the spout to get punch out of the pitcher. Lucy tested the spout a lot!

Kobe warmed up to Layne! Snuggle snuggle! Just Layne's size!

Here are more pictures of the BBQ and the family. Enjoy.

Everyone brought their dogs. They all wanted up on the deck but that is against the deck rules. NO Dogs allowed.

Justin made the chairs the boys are sitting on. He is very talented!
Another 4th of July had come and gone. We had a wonderful and relaxing day. So nice that we can share these times with family. Just wish the other family members were closer. I think you all should move to Spokane family!

July 4th 2011 Part One

2011-07-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

There was a bit of a unique start to the 4th of July this year. The exercise gang all met at Medical Lake for a swim. We are still trying to think of a name for this group. Awesome Triathletes only Different, Awesome Athletes Only Different, or just Only Different. Any suggests will help! I was more excited to swim than I look here!Wetsuits! The water was still cold at least by my thermostat. The wetsuits are always a challenge to squeeze into. Freida on the other hand has a thermostat that is out of whack! No wet suit for her. We call her Wonder Woman.
Gotcha Sheila!
Inch by inch we pull on the wetsuits.

Looks like we finally squeezed into the suits. I am sure you are thinking that the wetsuits aren't worth the hassle but let me tell you they are. They help with warmth and buoyancy. The more help I can get the better.
Here we are ready to go. Which one is Freida the Wonder Woman?
Now this is a process few understand. There is no rush getting into the water to swim. We visit take a few steps, visit and take a few steps. Then we start talking about how cold the water is when it seeps into our wetsuits. I think the whole process is documented nicely in the pictures below.

Jay is showing off his muscles!
We have actually done some swimming here. You can see the little heads bobbing out of the water.
Mike decided to take a swim. He kept telling us we were wrong on the distance we were swimming so we suggested :-) he get in and swim. He did. Turns out we were off on the distance but now we are squared away.
That's me bobbing up and down with the white cap. Must be resting a bit. Oh, that is part of the process I forgot to write about, resting!
Done for Sheila!
Me trying to be done too!
Mike swam a couple of our imaginary laps.
Trisha and Jay are getting hooked on the triathlon thing too. Fabulous picture of the happy couple!
The boys!
The boys plus 1!
Fun morning! Nice way to start off the 4th of July with our friends at the lake. Part two of the 4th will be coming soon. Thanks Jesus for our great friends that are such a blessing in our lives!

Rock and Roll 1/2 Marathon Seattle 2011 Katie

2011-06-26T18:11:00.001-07:00

Katie the 1/2 marathoner. Sounds good doesn't it! Has a nice ring to it. I drove over to Seattle to watch Katie complete a half marathon on June 25, 2011. She is in her runners pose here on the way to dinner Friday night.Twist is where we went. Great food and a fun place. Of course we didn't stay long. Gotta get the pre-race rest!

Healthy food!
Water only to drink. Enjoying that Katie because you look like you are!
Back to Katie's apartment and the ritual begins. Getting race number out, checking out what is in the goodie back, setting clothes out, getting a bag ready for me to carry that has Katie's supplies for after the race.
AHHH! And don't forget the bag decorating. I think every 1/2 marathoner should do this.
Here is the start of the decorating!
Finished! Pretty nice Katie! I told her she should put I love my mom on there.
The Vanna pose with her bag!
4:30 ish A.M. and the alarm rang. This was it. The day of the Rock and Roll 1/2! Everything was set out and ready to go. Katie bounced out of bed (could be a slight exaggeration) and got ready to go. Final touch...the timing chip on her shoe!
Katie's sister Dawn was participating too. After this picture they took off to ride the shuttle to the start. Since I was certain to get lost driving around Seattle I just went to the finish line and watched for the girls. Lots of people finishing!

I waited to see Katie. The finish was right by the famous Safeco fieldl!

I was getting texts that told me where Katie was. I got a confusing one and thought she was done. So I went to try and find her but couldn't. There were a lot of people to sift through and she wasn't answering her cell phone.

Turned out she wasn't finished. Dawn figured out what happened with the texts and since she hadn't finished I hustled back to the finish line. No wonder she wasn't answering. Now... Katie is in this picture finishing. This is sort of a Where's Waldo? moment. Can you find her? Hint...she is on the left side of the photo and only part of her head is showing.
Where's Katie? She is in this one too. Look for the black headband! I didn't have the best position for taking pictures!
The finishers. They were both happy with their time and ran every step! So proud of both of them!
Someone told Katie that these temporary tattoos would make her faster so she slapped them on!
Dave, Dawn, Kris and Steve!
All the participants got a free beer after the race. They had to go to a tent and show the workers something on their race number. They got a small ticket and could go to the beer tent for their free beer. Katie dropped hers and couldn't find it. There was mild panic in the air!
There was some concern on Katie's part that the rest of us weren't taking this ticket issue seriously enough. She did find it only to give it away. Lines were way too long. We needed lunch!
Some tunes for the racers!
Kris, Dawn, Katie!
Dawn, Katie, and me!
Katie and her mom, Jackie. We all wanted our picture taken with the stars of the day!
Beautiful clock tower flanked by a giant beer bottle. Hmmm!
We finally made it to lunch and I snapped a picture of the medals. Nice! Katie got a call right before we walked into the restaurant. It was Kyle. Kyle, Kath, and Finn had a layover in Seattle. They were heading to Spokane to go to Glacier National Park with Stephen, Michel and gang. Kyle and family wanted to see Katie. Kyle, Kath and Finn came downtown and after we ate we headed to where they were. They did not know I was there.
So great to get to spend time with them. Finn is a handsome boy and getting so grown up!
Kath is expecting baby number two. She is one of those women who are extra beautiful when they are pregnant.
Kyle and Katie!
Mr. Finn. He was telling me all about when it was OK to cross the street and when it was not. Red hand means do not walk. So good to see the California Gleasons. I think Kyle and Katie called it serendipitous. I agree.
The reward for a hard days work. A shower and a beer! I am so proud of Katie. Every time I have trained for a big event I have had buddies to train with and help with motivation. Katie did it on her own. Impressive. So glad I didn't miss her crossing the finish line. A few tears Katie! You are fabulous!

IronMay

2011-06-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

The IronMay Challenge

Can't do it in a day? Do it in a month! That is what it says on the t-shirts we received for the IronMay Challenge. We had a month to do all the distances of an Ironman. We could split all the activities up and do a little everyday. Here we are with our shirts. Mandi and Freida have a different color shirt because they did more than one Ironman in the month. They got awards too. Sorry girls I can't remember what the awards are for. Not Pictured...Deanna Mason!

Another Ride

2011-06-26T17:53:00.001-07:00

Well, we hopped on the Centennial Trail again on Sunday. Jay and Trisha joined us. They look so good together don't they. Happy smiles and notice the Jesus sticker on their car. I bet that is why they are smiling. PTLThe Gleasons!
After Sheila, Mariane and I went through the giant lake on the trail last week there was some talk about whether it would still be there or not. It was. Trisha was the most clever of us all. She went around it instead of through it. Could the smile here be because her feet are dry? I think so!
I sort of chopped off some heads here but just imagine how nice this picture would be with the heads intact.
Mike is trying to get as much water out of his shoes as possible. What a beautiful day it was.
As you can see the Spokane River is higher than normal. Too much rain this spring and lots of snow melt! Of course you can never have too much snow.

On the way back Mike and Jay went through the lake (so maybe it isn't giant as previously stated). Jay did the pedal with only one leg technique. Mike just barreled through it and I followed Trisha's lead and went around it!We had a great time riding with Jay and Trisha. Can't wait to get out there with them again.

Getting The Miles In!

2011-05-25T17:13:00.001-07:00

I signed up for this silly IronMay Challenge. (Sheila did too) You have to complete an Ironman Triathlon in a month. I have gotten a bit behind on the bike miles. I had to do 112 in month of May and I had about 40 before this ride. Sheila, Mariane, and I rode along the Centennial Trail from Spokane into Idaho. This was our starting spot!

What a beautiful ride along the Spokane River. Most of the way we really appreciated the water and the river. Read on to find out about the water we didn't appreciate but it gave us a good laugh and a little adventure.
Nice isn't it!
Mariane brought some snacks. Good idea. We decided we needed to invite Mariane every time we go biking. We loved her treats and she was a good sharer. Sheila and I have never thought to bring yummy treats. HMMM!
So this is the part where the water was not appreciated. We were close to the state line and cruising along on the trail. Sheila was in the lead. There was a sign that said something about the road being open. Didn't really read it completely. There was construction going on in the area and I thought it had to do with that. We slowed a bit to see what was happening. Sheila was going ahead just fine so we though it was full steam ahead. Then we saw part of Sheila's bike disappear into water. I think I stated that Sheila was crazy at that moment. Then we saw the water splashing up and getting her all wet. Did I mention crazy? Well, Mariane and I thought if she did it we will do it. And we did. We both tried to raise our feet up so they wouldn't get wet but it didn't work. The water was too deep. It was deep enough that we could not see the path under the water. 6 to 8 inches we thought. Of course I had to stop and get a picture once we got through the water. These pictures are what make blogging so fun. Mariane volunteered to go back and get in the water for the picture. The word crazy comes to mind again. I was happy she was willing to pose! Thanks Mariane! She is just coming out of the water here.

We laughed about the whole event! We re-hashed it over and over. Fun. Our feet were soaked. Look closely and you can see the water dripping out of the sock. It was fruitless to ring them out because our shoes were so wet.

Sheila thought a snack was appropriate at this time! We sort of thought she would take the wrapper off first though.
We thought that perhaps we would get credit for swimming and biking on the IronMay Challenge after going through that water. I think that is fair! We went several more miles after the water event. I fell AGAIN on my bike. Got the chain marks to prove it. It was a slow fall but it knocked my wheel out of shape and I rode back with a crooked wheel and a brake rubbing.
Here we are documenting more injuries. Horrible aren't they! This biking is a tough sport. :-)

After it was all said and done we rode about 32 miles. That helped cut a good chunk off our required miles. We laughed a lot and that was the best part. We did go get coffee afterwards but I left the camera in the car. Trust me we got our traditional cup of coffee! Can't wait to ride again.

Lilac Century Bike Ride Alternate Route

2011-05-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

So today was the Lilac Century Ride. I had to persuade Sheila to do the 15 mile ride instead of the 50 mile ride. Silly girl, it is the beginning of the cycling season. What were you thinking Sheila. I knew I wasn't ready for 50 miles. Green t-shirts. I don't like green t-shirts. At least this color green. Like the design though. It was supposed to rain today. Look at the blue skies. Wonderful weather for a ride. Oh and take a look at Sheila's new jacket. She wasn't so sure it was a good purchase until it got hot and she could zip the sleeves off. Good purchase. She is a little concerned she won't be able to figure out how to get the sleeves back on. She will figure it out! :-)
I look moderately excited????
This is Sheila's. I told her that just because she had this tag that said she was an adult doesn't mean she is an adult. I will be getting my tag in the mail. Gotta keep up with the Sheilas.
We ran into the fearless leader of Michael Anderson Elementary School. Mandi did a half marathon yesterday and took the 25 mile route for this ride. She ran afterwards too.
Good poses always get on the blog.
Ready, set, go! A water bottle was shot into the air to signify it was time to start. Interesting!
We cycle to the turn around spot (about 7 miles into the ride) and decide we don't want to ride back the same way we came. SOOOO we took analternate route! Not cheating girls just an alternate route. It was the same route that Spokefest follows. I remembered it as pretty flat. I was not correct. I made it up all the hills but the last one by the college. No legs left. Sheila made it up them all! Stud!

Why or why is Jackie taking a picture of her bike on the ground??? I fell over and that is where the bike landed. I was almost stopped. We have to document everything you know. Clipped out of my left foot first. Mistake. Because of my knee I have to clip my right foot first. It is harder to twist it to get the right shoe out so I do the right foot first. Not this time. Left foot out and right foot was not out equals small fall. It was slow motion!
Of course the minor injury has to be documented.
And the greasy chain marks from the fall. I am glad it was only Sheila there but I am pretty sure she laughed.
Where are we? Where do we go? We just got finished with Downriver Dr. and Pettet Dr. is Doomsday hill. The hill we all talk about around Bloomsday time. Luckily we did not have to ride up Doomsday!

We finally made it! Surprise! Surprise! Baked potatoes at the end of the ride. Yum! We are ready to dig in!

Notice the clouds in this picture. Ugly dark clouds. Rain came but it was after we were done. The people riding longer distances got caught in the rain. See Sheila 15 miles was perfect.
Last stop Starbucks for our coffee!
Great fun! Gotta practice hills though. We want to do the 50 mile ride next year. There it is. It is official now and we are committed because it is on the blog!!!

Completed My 30th Bloomsday in 2011

2011-05-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

Spring in Spokane can only mean one thing. Bloomsday is here! The first Sunday of May over 50,000 people run, walk, or skip Bloomsday. People everywhere but it never feels crowded, just fun! This year was my 30th Bloomsday. I have missed only 5 of them.
My skinny sister Patti. Patti has lost 90 pounds since last Bloomsday. So proud of her. We both really missed our sister DD! Wish she could have been with us again this year.
Don't even ask!

The helicopter is always around to start the race with a huge bang!
The elite runners take off and the pack waits for their wave to get started.
Sisters!
While we wait beach balls are tossed around. One ended up in a tree!
The sweatshirt tradition. As the morning warms up people shed their sweatshirts. They get thrown up in the trees and are collected later and donated. Someone will get great use out of them.

Pretty Patti!
Waving the American flag!
These sweatshirts never made it into the trees. Perhaps their owners could toss them that high!
The start line. We are getting close! Once we step across that start line our time starts. It is so crowded it is hard to get around even after crossing the line.
This is a new one. Men in drag hovering around the priests at the church we always pass! They drew a lot of attention.
All types of people do Bloomsday. This little lady walked the 7.46 with her cane. Impressive! I guess none of us has an excuse not to exercise!
Here are a bunch of Bloomsday shirts all lined up. I should get mine out and at least look at them once in a while!
YeeHaw!
Two miles down and 5+ to go!
People as far as you can see!
3+ miles down and Doomsday Hill right around the corner!
Doomsday hill is far in the distance in this picture. Almost 1 mile uphill.
I think it is easier to see the people climbing the hill in this picture.
Doomsday Hill!

A little inspiration from a band member before the climb!

Starting up the hill with a few other people. We all made it!
The vulture greets us again at the top of Doomsday Hill. Survival of the fittest! Will the vulture get you?
1.46 miles to go! We conquered the hill and we are on the home stretch!
AHHHHH!
The Court House. Beautiful building!
Some silly finishers walk back to meet friends.
We turn the corner and see the finish! We did it again! Number 30 completed for me and number 2 for my sister. We aren't the only one loving the site of that finish line. There are a couple of other people completing the race!

The 1st Presbyterian Band was the band at the end of the course. My church!
Lederhosen? Not sure I spelled that right. I like to take pictures of the firsts! This is one of them.
Tada! Completed and home. I actually guessed that the shirts would be yellow this year. I had my own little contest family! No prizes just the satisfaction of being right! :-)
Can't wait for next year. Both sisters will be here again God willing. Anyone want to join us?

Tutus 2011

2011-05-07T15:14:00.001-07:00

My sister came up for Bloomsday this year. Before Bloomsday on Sunday we ran around Spokane. Our first stop was Kristin's house. Patti came bearing gifts for the girls. Tutus that my nephew (her son) Josh made. Beautiful! The girls put them on right away. They just loved them. Lucy kept her jeans on which is true blue Lucy, a tutu and jeans!Look at the gorgeous fabric!
Layne decided she needed her special shoes on for the tutu modeling!

Along with jeans Lucy had a Jack's Surfboard shirt on which Patti gave her last year.
Then some more costumes. How fun to dress up like this. Layne had a friend over and they did a short show for us.
Adorable!
Thank you Patti and Josh! The tutus are beautiful!!!

The Broken Arm

2011-04-26T18:39:00.001-07:00

So, the hard cast was finally installed on Layne's arm today. I got to be the first to sign it. She couldn't decide if she wanted blue or pink so she got both. The boys are going to sign on the blue and girls on the pink. She has it all planned.
Layne goes back to school tomorrow. Hopefully, she will remember she has a cast on and take it easy. Love you Layne and I am glad you are OK!

Spring Dash CDA 2011

2011-04-26T18:24:00.001-07:00

Notice the name of this event. The Spring Dash. It was on April 17th. See those little white dots that drifted into my car. SNOW. Can you believe it???? Needless to say it was a cold morning. We had so much fun despite the snow!!!

Sheila and I got to the Dash to pick up our packets very, very early! We were just following directions but we could slept longer and still gotten there in time for packets. We had over an hour to wait for the starting gun. As you will notice in the picture below. We are sitting in my warm car (you can see part of the hood). Those other people that were out in the cold are nuts! Get someplace warm! Our decision was to stay in the car until about 5 minutes before race time. We managed to fill our time with lots of good conversation and laughter!

We have finally ventured outside the car and joined the crazy people who by this time were pretty much ice cubes.
Here we are all bundled up and getting ready to go. We are smiling because we were smart and stayed in the warm car. Surely, we could zoom right past the ice cubes.
Lots of people participated. Coeur d alene is such a beautiful city!

Coming up to the finish line! We made it. 5 miles in the books.
The exercise gang we hang out with have a tradition. I think Cheryl and I got that started. We go get coffee after the race. There was coffee place that looked out over the streets of CDA and the lake was off to our right. Sheila and I agreed that this was the best americano we have ever had. Great espresso. No bitter taste at all. Muffins A +! Yum! I can't wait to do another race in CDA so I can go there again.

Fun day with my training buddy Sheila. So it begins! Triathlons, bike rides, walks and fun!

Looking into the Future

2011-04-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took a little journey to a new addition to our family. Well, actually Kristin and Justin's family. They bought some acreage. They have big plans and dreams for this piece of property. It is beautiful!So cute!
The pond! Yes, it has fish! The girls will love fishing in the pond!
So precious!

Here we all are tromping through the woods and learning all about the plans Justin and Kristin have. So happy for them. Nothing better than living your dream.

This place is a natural playground for the girls!
Look what I spotted lurking in the trees!
Up close and personal!
They have a nice little stream running through the property!
This is Kristin explaining to us where her Field of Dreams softball diamond is going to be!

More exploring!

A tree stand and the kids decided it would be fun to climb up to it.

Steve gave it a try too and checked out the tree stand. There is no way I would sit in one of those in the freezing cold weather waiting for a deer to blast.

Wonder what they are talking about??? Maybe hunting?

Beavers!

Beautiful, beautiful place to live somewhere down the road! Perfect for Justin, Kristin and the kids! Perfect!