Frog Lake

Yesterday, the kids and I went on a beautiful hike with some friends. We basically made it a day trip. We left Carson Valley around 10, started the hike around 10:30.

We had brought swimwear so once we got to the lake we stayed for a couple of hours. We had lunch and we played. I personally didn’t get in the lake; I was satisfied with supervising and visiting with my friends. The kids however had a grand time playing in the water and in the beautiful nature around the lake. They were especially thrilled when they noticed a nice slope still covered in snow. If you know Henry, you can guess what happened next. Yep, he decided he would sled it on his bottom in his swim trunks and all the kids decided to do like him. They really did have a grand time. They played hard and each now gladly bears a “wound” to prove it.

I gave Olivia and her friend Madison a small camera. Here are some of the pictures they took.

Thank you Heather for showing us such an amazing place.

Vive la France… et Joyeux Anniversaire Papa!

Today is Bastille Day; a day to celebrate France and being French because let’s face it; it’s a great place, with great people and great food. It’s also my dad’s birthday. I think it’d be awesome to have fireworks and a parade every year for my birthday. Joyeux Anniversaire Papa! Je t’aime de tout mon Coeur.

Death Ride

It is done. After months of training and of hanging out with his cycling buddies, Tyler completed the Death Ride today. That’s right all 129 miles, 5 passes and 15,000 feet of climbing. Can you tell I’m proud? Well, I’m very proud and he’s pooped!

His day started at 3:45 am when he met up with Clay, Callis and Joseph, his riding guys. He started the ride at 4:50 am from Turtle Rock Park in Markleeville, CA and up Monitor Pass to 395 by Lake Topaz. At 395, he turned around and went back over Monitor Pass. Then it was up Ebbetts Pass, turn around and back over Ebbetts Pass. After the second time over Ebbetts, they came by Turtle Rock Park on the way to Carson Pass and then back to Turtle Rock Park. Yep. 129 miles. 5 passes. 15,000 feet of climbing. I’m tired just typing it out. Tyler finished at 3:45 pm. Just under 11 hours including all the hydration breaks, potty breaks and lunch.

The kids, Tyler’s parents and I went to the finish line to see him finish. We are all so proud of him.

Tyler coming up to the finish line.

Olivia and Henry running to their father.

The 5 stickers on Tyler’s number. He got a sticker at each completed pass.

Tyler’s face crusted with salt because of all the sweating. Disgusting but part of the experience.

Tyler after we got home. Pooped.