Danielle, Catherine, Julie, and Martha at the starting line
Julie and Becky
Olivia, stretching and getting ready to run
Anna Beth and Julie
As always for these races, the children had to get up very early, and we left our house at 6:00 AM for the one hour drive to Blue Mountain. I baked banana applesauce muffins for the children for breakfast--I think that may be a tradition now--those muffins on race mornings.
The night before a race I always pack everything: watches, snacks and drinks for the little children, ponytail holders, brush, camera, blankets, and clothes for Leah and Sam. Normally, we just get Leah and Sam from the bed and put them in straight in the car. I dress them when we arrive at the race.
Jared and silly Sam
The siblings of the Spartans always amuse themselves during the pre-race activities, the actual race, and afterwards while awaiting the awards. The Blue Mountain College campus provided lots of entertainment for the children--trees to climb, large grassy areas to run around in, and a bridge to play on. They occupied themselves well.
Leah and Avery
The race course was hilly, including an uphill stretch to the finish. The faces of the runners reflected the toughness of that finish line hill! Still, the Spartan runners had a successful race. Many Spartans won awards and a couple of Spartan parents did too! Olivia won 1st in her age group, Julie won 1st in her age group, and Clay won 3rd in his age group.
Olivia and Catherine
Alec and Clay
Jimmy had to work the morning of the race, but he was able to join us later on. We visited with other Spartans while enjoying a hamburger lunch and various games and activities on the Blue Mountain campus.
When we arrived home, everyone rested, and I cleaned out my pantry (pictures later) and then Clay and I bought groceries. Sam took a four hour nap!!
What a full day!!! I would need a 4-hour nap myself! Can't believe you had the energy to grocery shop! :)
ReplyDeleteWay to go Johnsons and all the other Spartans!
ReplyDelete