Its been too long

I know its been a LONG time. April seems like it was years ago. I can explain I think. During that time the kids were cast in the local high school play of "Suessical" and it was a very BUSY time. And then, I don't know what has happened.
There is much to tell and catch up on- as a very small preview ( more for my memory of what pics and notes I need to add than yours)

- In June, we went to Bend Oregon so Ryan and the kids could do the kids triathalon and half ironman there. Ryan did really well and the kids also loved their version-
However, Grant does not like making congratulatory signs for dad- Picture it as I'm with the kids and we need to leave to get to the finish line- Grace has drawn an elaborate sign with pictures etc. Grant is crying that he doesn't want to do this. ( I really have no idea why)

- In July, Grace was baptized on July 2nd. We had a LOT of family in town. It was a busy but fun time.

- We recovered in time to leave for a trip to see my family in Boise and then on to SLC. While there we did the obligatory trip to Lagoon- ( which I don't mind) We also went to a rodeo- which the kids loved and we don't get to see everyday.

- In August we went to the beach with my sister and her family. We had a great time... but I need to check the rental contract next time regarding pets....

- Later in August we went to Everett, WA and Lake Stevens for Ryan to do another half ironman competition. It was beautiful. However, the sign issue came up again with Grant. It also seems that as we're waiting along the route for Ryan that Grant has to go to the bathroom... I made him wait this time around.

- At the end of August I started my worldwide tour with the Dept of Defense. I was hired to do a 3 day training for SLPs ( speech-language pathologists) worldwide with another SLP. So at the end of August, we went to Atlanta ( well, really Peachtree City), Georgia to do our first training. We stayed at a great place and I got to see my in-laws that live in GA.

- In the beginning of September we ALL went to Tokyo, Japan for the next training. We extended our trip and it was a once in a lifetime experience ( that we could have never afforded otherwise) The family stayed for 10 days and then returned home to Oregon. I flew directly on to Germany to do the last training. I had a great time in Europe and connected with some great friends ( whom I called in favors with- thanks Lisa and Marnie).

- My sense of time was completely warped by the time I returned home. It took a few days to recover. But, I didn't have time for that! Ryan and the kids and I ran in the Portland Marathon again the following weekend. NO, I didn't run the marathon. The kids and I did the 3 mile kids run again this year. Ryan ran the marathon with his best time yet.
Grant said he'd go this time if he didnt' have to make signs. ( we may just get some made :-)

- I just had my first weekend home in 5 weeks and we're sick here. I guess it has to catch up sometime.