Colorado
Although Colorado was on the last leg of our trip, it deserves the first part of this post, because we met our new nephew – Solomon Tegene (Tug-en-ay). We made our way to Jason (Jared’s brother) & Courtney’s new home in a small town up in the mountains. They had just met and brought home their new son from Ethiopia a few weeks prior – it was brave of them to let family come and stay while still getting adjusted! It was wonderful to hang out and get to know this happy little boy. He has a beautiful smile, large gorgeous eyes, stunning skin and adorable little hands and feet!
The five of us took Solomon on his first picnic. The catch – we had to cross the Crystal River to get to our perfect picnic destination. Seemed easy at the time. We loaded up our things and trekked across. All seemed to be going too well, until Elsie decided to panic half way across the river. Summary: Elsie almost drowning – still on leash…Jared bewildered as to what to do so he just holds on the leash…Brave Courtney going in after Elsie, Courtney trying to pick up Elsie who isn’t amused, Courtney’s shoe coming off and floating down the river, Courtney getting soaked, Elsie survives, Jason laughing and telling me to take pictures. Wow.
It was great to see their new home, new son, and spend some time with the family. On the last night, Jared’s sister arrived too, so it was a grand old sibling reunion. Very fun.
Jared and Solomon
The Siblings
Jason and Solomon
Coutrney and Solomon
Our river adventure..Elsie floating away, Coutrney saving her and her shoe :-)
Illinois (Chicago)
January 1st 2009: The most these legs had carried me at a runner’s pace: 1 mile.
August 2nd 2009: The most these legs had carried me at a runner’s pace: 13.1 miles!
Yep, I did it. Didn’t think I would, could, should, (insert verb)…
Jared and I made our way to the Windy City for the 2009 Inaugural Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon. Jared cheered, I ran.
Here’s some stats:
· Overall there were 14, 438 runners, I crossed the finish line as number 4,423.
· Out of 9,348 females, I came in 1,886.
· For my age group (25-29) there were 2,600 runners, I placed 616.
· My goal was 2:15:00, I beat that at 2:01:50!
The race was great. Running through Chi-Town, listening to music, seeing the beautiful skyline. A few other friends ran too. After the race we enjoyed some of the festivities. Immediately after the race I swore off half marathons for life – but I have already got another one on the schedule in a month… Other highlights from Chicago:
Jen and I before the run
If you look closely, you can see me finishing the race. I am wearing blue and can be spotted above the lady (standing in the crowed) wearing pink.
Chicago skyline
Kansas (and Missouri)
Burritos, Family, Queso, Friends… Home, sweet home.
Being back in Kansas City was great. No hub-bub of the holidays, nice weather, cheap food, and friendly people.
We stayed at Jared’s parents home first. Celebrated his Dad’s 60th birthday. Spent time watching movies, relaxing, relaxing, relaxing. Agenda at my parents: pool party, bbq, relaxing, relaxing, relaxing. Notice a theme?
Brent's (Jared's dad) 60th birthday party!
Becky!
Each month "the girls" go out for dinner...I finally made it to one! My cousin Jenni was in town, so she joined in on the fun! Pictured: Erin, Megan, Jenni
Erin, Becky, and Me
Our friends Megan and George!
Sol Azteca...best mexican in town! I already miss my queso covered burrito! My parents, Amy, and Jenni were some of few who joined me on my many trips to this restaurant.
We got together for a cookout at my parents and played ladders....the dogs enjoyed chasing the ropes!
Elsie enjoyed her stay at my parents where she played with her friends, Macie and Baliey.
On our way to Colorado we stopped in Manhattan and ate at So Long Saloon...mmmm good!
We also stopped in Topeka to visit my Grandparents.
That same day I also got to have dinner with my past co-workers from Marquette!
Our trip was great and went by too fast! We had a great time. Thanks to everyone for all the fun you provided...you tired us out!
Mules carrying supplies to the camp ground. 
