bedtime story

So every night for the past 6 1/2 years Mike and I have been reading stories to the kids before bed. The time has finally come that Elizabeth is reading her bedtime stories by herself and she reads to AJ on occasion. Well because he wants to be like his older brother and sister, Jacob too is trying to read and copy his bedtime stories. Tonight he demonstrated his skills while reading Elmo's lullaby to us. Man I love this kid!

beautiful sites

I have always known that we are stationed in "paradise" but recently the sites have just been unbelievable. Makes me realize what I take for granted and how I need to appreciate all that is around us while we are here.

A turtle in a pond in our neighborhood.

Driving home from the grocery store after a light rain.

Driving over the bridge to get some dinner.

A view from the beach house we are staying at this summer.

Sand dunes at the base beach.

Driving home after a photo shoot.

We are really lucky to live where we do.

Seaside 1/2

I have now officially been running for over a year and Seaside was my anniversary race. Back in 2009, I ran my first race (outside of high school) in Seaside. I ran the 5K and never imagined that I would want to or be able to run more than 3.1 miles. A year later I ran my first half marathon exactly where I ran my first race.

This journey was not an easy one. I have had my share of running related injuries as well as the challenges of having a family and trying to get my training in.

About a two weeks before the race while out on a training run, I hurt my back and leg. I wasn't able to walk for two days and was afraid that my race would not become a reality. After seeing my doc and getting in with an awesome physical therapist, they got me in condition to run.

Not only did I have my redheaded stubbornness working for me but the motivation, inspiration and encouragement of close friends and family were huge. In the end, I ran my first half marathon with my husband by my side the whole way and the inspiration of a dear friend in my thoughts. My time was slower than I wanted but I was just happy to cross the finish line. I had a blast and it was a very memorable experience for me. I am so happy that I did it!