Floods and More Races

I'm sure by now everyone knows about the flooding that has overtaken much of Iowa. Several out-of-state people have inquired as to how our families are doing back home. We appreciate the inquiries.

Brian's family in Cedar Rapids are battling the aftermath of the severe flooding. His parents own some apartments in the downtown Cedar Rapids area that they rent out. The flood destroyed virtually everything on the first floor. Pat's company was also submerged. He has been spending every day there cleaning up and then heading to the apartments at night. The school Pam teaches at escaped serious damage, but all the homes of the teachers and students were not so fortunate. Over 38,000 people are homeless. They have had help from volunteers, the National Guard, and local residents. With their hard work, they were able to save one city well and the hospital. Needless to say, there is a lot of work left and it will take years to recover.

Pat and Pam own that green house in the background


Pat and Pam and Heather and Matt are at a crossroads in determining what to do. Board up the apartments? Take out another loan and rebuild? It's a tough decision and financially it's a complete loss either way. They're tired and stressed, but also refreshingly hopeful and forward-thinking. Their faith has obviously played a huge part in acceptance. Please keep them in their prayers, as well as all the other residents affected by the floods throughout the Midwest.

As for us, we're doing just fine. Caden entertains us with his creative modes of play. Last night, he ran between rooms and one-by-one, stacked matchbox cars on our ottoman. Why...we have no idea. He drinks from a cup easily and far prefers that, even if it does mean pouring milk down his shirt. He has learned how to give Daddy "knuckles" and he says a new word, "outside." He points at things constantly and repeatedly asks "is that?" I think he just likes to hear us respond. He also hoards his pacifiers and switches them out.



I'm not sure about this pool business...


...but give me a rain puddle any day!


Father/son moment


Brian competed in the Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon on Sunday. It was a last minute decision but we're glad we went. It is one of the biggest triathlons in North America with approximately 4,000 triathletes (including pros) and thousands of spectators to cheer them on. Brian placed 4th in his age group and 26th overall out of ~1,900 male amateurs with a time of 2:06:15. His top-five placing qualified him for the USA Triathlon National Age Group Championship in Portland this September. Wow. For the most part, the race went smoothly, although he almost fell in the bike transition area and he was furious with his run performance. Every race is another learning experience and another step closer to his goals.





The race took place in the heart of Philadelphia. It was my first time there and I enjoyed seeing some new sights. We ate at a unique diner at the Reading Terminal Market and viewed the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Caden was incredibly overstimulated by the end of the long day, but he survived and so did we. Honestly, I would not exactly volunteer for those road trips every weekend but it was fun to watch Brian compete in such a big race. (I just didn't enjoy navigating by myself in an unfamiliar city, fighting thousands of bystanders with a hyper toddler!)

That darn bell is still cracked


As for me, I ride my road bike twice a week and recently purchased clipless pedals and bike shoes. It's almost like I'm a real cyclist now! I tried them out this morning and half fell only once. It was one of those moments where you right yourself and then look around sheepishly to see if anyone was watching.

I ran the 5K "Run Amuck" here on base with Angel and Brandee last Saturday. The race course included obstacles like tires, pipes, hay bales, fake barbed wire, some nasty steep hills, and a mud pit. It's a good thing the three of us grew up in the country and don't mind a little dirt. I think my favorite part was making the t-shirts beforehand. We spent two days making them and the resulting product was glorious.

Whew, that's DEEP

Chicks from the Stix Dig Mud

Angel's misspelling is not helping the "back country" stereotypes for Missouri folks

Caden is waking up from his LONG afternoon nap. I think he is still recuperating from our Philly trip this weekend. Take care and maybe I'll see some of you soon. We fly out in less than 2 weeks. Call my Mom if you need an exact countdown!