And We're Off

Well 5 days ago we were off!  We've been busy and the blogger app keeps shutting off every time I try to type.  I'm glad I brought my computer.  

This was the sunrise on the day we left.  So incredible!

 This trip Justin and I decided that we would rent a Uhaul trailer.  We thought about buying one, even a used one, but it was too expensive.  This way we can but Justin's new, fancy, expensive bike in there and not worry about it being stolen or out int he open.  It also opens us up to take the cooking supplies and more groceries (less eating out).  We could have packed everything in/on/attached to the van but when we got home we would have had to buy new tires for the back.  Been there done that!  Multiple times.

Almost everything is in there.

 My heavy lifters when Justin's not home!  With my bad back I don't even try to help them with this type of thing anymore.  I hate it but that's life.  And they understand and are pretty willing helpers.

 Just pulling out of the driveway.  We left around 5pm and stopped in Sioux City, Iowa for the night.  I packed a picnic dinner of leftovers so we only had to stop for gas.

Many more adventures to come!!

So far this summer

Well we have signed up for the library's summer reading program.

 I replaced the burner tubes and starter parts on the grill.  Weber has GREAT customer service by the way.

 Caroline is off on an adventure with Mimi and Grandaddy!

 The boys don't like all the additional chores they have to do now that Caroline is gone.  But they are having fun with water balloons.

 And for the most part we go to the pool right down the street from us almost everyday!  Igooten several books read.

So far so good!!

Bike Races

Wednesday night we tried something new.  The local bike shop, along with some other local sponsors, host a series of bike races throughout the summer.  It's a learning experience for kids and adults.  All 3 kids raced!  There were 5 age groups (0-5, 6-8, 9-10,11-12, juniors and adults) and your group is determined by your age as of Dec. 31.  So Will was in the 11-12 and Caroline was racing in the junior and adult category.  

Eric's age group was the largest.  He was super excited!  He has on a brown shirt and turquoise helmet.

 Eric's age group had to do 2 laps around the course that's about 3/4 of a mile.  He came in 4th!!  He said he wants to race again and get 1st, 2nd, or 3rd so he can get a medal!

 Will's age group had to complete 4 laps.  He also came in 4th!  Two of the 3 that beat Will had road bikes and had raced before.  He also wants to race again and has asked for a faster bike!  Haha!

 Will coming in to finish.  It was a beautiful evening to be outside.

 Eric before the race.

 Caroline's group did 3 races all with different goals.  You get points for each lap completed and your totals carry over for each race and the series.  She did ok.  All told she did 12 laps.  I'm just beyond proud that she even did them!  Again this girl constantly amazes me and what she is willing to try.  She has said she will "maybe" race again!!  I'm betting she will give it another chance.  I might even let her borrow my road bike since there were only 2 in her group that didn't have road bikes.

After we headed to Sonic for a treat for the racers.  Eric decided he wanted another dinner instead of ice cream, Caroline got an ice cream, and Will got a cherry limeade.  It was a win all around.
Justin plans on racing after he does his half ironman.  I'm undecided!