Loose Lips Sinks Ships

At least that's what I was told in 8th grade. Brody has been doing this weird pursed lips thing for the past month or two. We have been collecting pictures for awhile and decided it was time to introduce his lips to the world. Enjoy all the moments we've caught him. These are really only a few times that we've gotten it on camera.

Blake decided to join in on the fun.

Brody is just too cute. He had his 6th month appointment the other day (even though he is now 7 months). Measurements: height 26 1/2 inches (50%) and weight 19 pounds (78%). He loves his food and everyone else's food for that matter. He is super giggly and still doesn't sleep well.

Hells Gate Duathlon 2010

At the beginning of the month my neighbor told me about the Hells Gate Duathlon. It's a 2 mile run, 12 mile bike and another 2 mile run. Since I wasn't able to complete a triathlon this summer, I thought this would do. Last night we took the kids on a bike ride so I could get warmed up. Brody fell asleep right away.

We put the kiddos to bed early and we decided to call it a night too, since we had to leave at 7:15. We weren't in bed more than 5 minutes when our neighbor car alarm went off. BEEP BEEP BEEP, that's what we heard for like the next hour until they turned it off. The kids slept horribly, but so is the life of a parent. They are cute during day.
Rachel (the neighbor) had to work, so she didn't do the duathlon with me, but she did make me an incredibly cute race day package. Included: breakfast (oatmeal, brown sugar, nuts, and english muffin), Gatorade & energy beans for the race, and a yummy protein bar for after the race. I enjoyed everything.
I was a littler nervous before the race. This was my first race where I got to wear a chip. I was excited. Lucky 309!

The kids were getting restless, so I told Blake he could leave therefore missing the start. My first 2 miles felt great. I ran an 8 1/2 minute mile each way. My transition was a little slow, but then I was off to biking. The first 6 miles out were tough. It was a hill the whole way. I was concerned I wasn't going to stay within my 45 minute window. It took me 25 minutes to go the first 6 miles, but only 19 minutes on the way back. Thank you downhill.

My transition was a little slow again, but that's ok. (About a minute each transition.) I was off for the last 2 miles. I had to will myself not to walk during that first mile (I think I was actually saying, "why aren't those energy beans kicking in?"). It was gradually uphill and my legs were heavy from the bike, but at the turn around I got me second wind (or the beans kicked in). It took me 9 minutes to get out, but only 8 1/2 minutes to get back. Blake and the kids were there to greet me at the ending line. Final time: 1:21:23. I was told to pose for the picture and then hit my watch (Edge's), I obviously didn't do that.

I even got a medal. Ok, everyone did, but I was still excited.

Once again, I loved running in to see my family at the finish line.

I had to post this picture. Look at the one above, Brody is totally eyeing the drink. Now he's mad he doesn't have it. He loves his food.

After the race in my nifty new shirt.

Braden has confiscated the medal. He is convinced it's his.

While I was racing, Blake took the kids to the river to throw rocks in. Brody had a major blow out and of course we didn't bring a change of clothes. I guess it got over everything. Thank goodness I was biking. We still had to go to Costco, so he just wore his little jacket and was wrapped in Braden's blanket. I am glad we let him bring that. Look how chubby this one is getting.

It was super fun. I recommend it to anyone, beginner and advanced runners/bikers alike. I am now convinced that I want a road bike. Maybe next year. I love my husband for being so supportive. Thanks honey!

Mockingjay

You know you have a great friend when she buys you this...

for an early birthday present. Thanks Camille! I will probably read it by tomorrow and then pass it along to you. I have been waiting for this day to arrive for sometime. I will let you know my review. Sorry Janet, your book is now on the back burner.

Lentil Festival 2010: Day 2

There's nothing like the big lentil that welcomes everyone to the Lentil Parade.

The George's were kind enough to save spots for pretty much the whole town of Pullman. We were lucky enough to sit with the Wilson's and Bischoff's.

Rachel and Isaiah. For the record, Isaiah is actually looking at the camera from under his sunglasses.

Our 2 handsome husbands standing in back.

I caught Braden clapping along with the bands. It was so cute to see his interest in this. Obviously him and Calvin have something in common.

Brody just adores Merilee. I have to admit, I do too.

Brody did quite well at the parade. We were hoping he would sleep, but there was too much going on.

I don't know what Braden liked more, his friends, the candy or all the different things that were going on.

Braden LOVES firetrucks. Right as church was starting on Sunday, Blake told him that his friend Austin's dad is a fireman. (Did that make sense?) Well, Braden leans forward (since he was sitting in front of us) and asks Zach in the loudest voice possible, "Are you a fireman?" It was cute, but loud. I think Zach is his new hero.

Our family of 4. To think I was pregnant at this time last year.

The boys making noises with their posters.

A couple of the floats. The bird actually flew.

The next 3 photos are my favorite. We were trying to get a cute shot of the boys. (Tyler, Braden and Isaiah)

So close, but no cigar.

I couldn't help but yell, "SUCCESS." (I love Rachel's face in the background.)

After the parade we headed to Quiznos (no, not Quinn Knows, USU whud up!) with the Wilson's then we wandered over to Reaney Park for more festivities. The boys enjoyed riding in the stroller.

We made it to Reaney Park and enjoyed the festivities. Braden was old enough to participate this year.

They had a huge tent with tons of little things to do. I did not attempt the hula hoop or hupa loop as Braden calls it. (What cartoon is that front? 1000 points to the person who knows.)

Blake had fun at this station too. He likes the big yo-yos.

Braden was so cute.

We decided to go to the bird show. He ran ahead of me and this is what I found. He was very quiet and interested in the birds.

He even took the time to share popcorn with Isaiah. That's why they are best friends.

And it wouldn't be the Lentil Festival without playing in some lentils.

After these we headed home and attempted naps. It didn't work. Blake and I were going crazy. We had a huge BBQ that night with some good friends (post to come later, once I get the pics from Rachel). I don't know why I love it so much, but I do, I just LOVE the Lentil Festival. You are always welcome to stay at our house if you want to check it out.

Lentil Festival 2010: Day 1

It's that time of year for another Lentil Festival. This year we were joined by my sister and brother-in-law. They loaded us up with some great European chocolate (which is a million times better than American chocolate). Braden loved his Cadbury egg, with a toy inside.

With Brody strapped to me and Braden attached to Aunt Mallory, we were ready to take on the Street Festival.

Mallory got some good cuddle time with Baby B too. I am sure she wished she had more. He was a little tired and grumpy though.

Brent and Mallory enjoyed their lentil chili. "It was a little too spicy for me." Mallory declared, but we all still enjoyed it.
Braden loved all the booths that gave away free food and candy (ok, all us adults enjoyed it too).

Braden was eager to walk on the railroad tracks. Uncle Brent and Aunt Mallory decided they would do the honors.

Family shot on the Lentil Train.

Dad and Son in the firetruck. Braden spoke about this ALL day, but when it came down to really exploring, he would have none of it.

Brody wanted in on the fun too. I let him explore the outside of the ambulance.

Braden was more than thrilled to play in the ambulance with Aunt Mallory. She thoroughly enjoyed Braden. She has been trying to win him over for 2 1/2 years. She's finally won!

And finally we had our picture shoot in front of the biggest bowl of spicy chili. First up, Mallory and Brent.

Second: The group. (Sorry Mal, your eyes are a little shut.)

Third: Me and my sister

And finally, the Barnett family.

I love this picture of father and son.

Before we left, Braden and Mallory had to get some golfing in.

It was so tiring that Mallory had to give Braden a water break. He made her do this. It was quite funny.

Overall, it was a successful first day of the Lentil Festival. We enjoyed having Mallory and Brent to watch Braden. It took a lot of pressure off of Blake and I. We really enjoyed our time. We also enjoyed not bringing the stroller. We were eager for the parade on Saturday. More pictures of that to come later.