Determination

These two kids didn't care that it was only about 65 degrees out this afternoon. All they cared about was that it's Summer, and their pool was finally set up. And by gosh they're going to play in it, chattering teeth and all!

Splash- Pedal- Dash

For some time now Grayson has wanted to compete in a Triathlon, probably since he watched his first IRONMAN on tv. This spring he started really pushing to Paul to look for a kids triathlon that he could do. Luckily we were able to find one not too far away. On Saturday he participated in the Blue Lake Splash-Pedal-Dash. It's an event for kids 12 and under. They swim 50 yards, bike 3/4 mile and run 400 meters.

Grayson spent the last few weeks diligently training. Paul took him to the pool for some swim training and out for some longer bike rides. He was SO excited. He talked about it nonstop for days. And after a week of hard rain, race day turned out to be sunny and beautiful.

It didn't help warm the lake up much apparently though. Grayson said the swim was the worst part of the race because he was so cold he could hardly breathe.

His second hardest part seemed to be transitioning to his bike. I don't know if his hands were too cold from the swim or what but it seemed to take forever for him to get his shoes tied and start the bike leg.

But once he got going he was fast, passing other cyclists along the way.

It was a great family experience to cheer him on together. Before the race Rowan kept telling him "Grayson, don't ever give up", and even Fuller (who was a bit grumpy about a whole day devoted to his little brother) enthusiastically cheered him on.

We were so happy for him, and proud of him for setting a goal and following it through to the end.

He loved the whole experience and says he wants to do lots more.

He liked the medal and t-shirt he got pretty good too.

Memorial Day- Art Escape

Over Memorial Day weekend Paul and the boys went to southern Oregon to visit Grandma and Grandpa B. One of the things they love about their visits with Paul's mom is getting to be artists. They love hanging out in her studio and getting to paint and learn new techniques.

Since the weather was so nice this trip she set them up with an outdoor art studio.

They painted and painted and painted.

And brought home many masterpieces.

They were definitely feeling the creative energy.

And when they were ready for a break from painting they got to play and explore in the woods around Grandma's house.

And check out the creek, although it was still too cold to really play in it.

These boys love their Grandma!