geranium tragedy

We had this wind storm on Sat. night. It was kind of freaky when one of the cottonwoods fell down and landed on the beautiful geranium that Mom and Dad got for me when they were out here visiting. It WAS about 2 feet from the front door, but now ...well, its under that huge branch!

Freemont Fair

I spent the weekend up in Seattle with Holly celebrating the summer solstice. We went to the Freemont Fair and it was the most creative parade I've ever seen. It kicked off with cyclists, most of which were naked and covered with body paint. That was followed up by a lot of interesting costumes, music and COLORS.



We also got to spend a tiny bit of time with Drew, Rebecca and their newly born daughter, Ava. Of course, it freaked me out when Drew handed me Ava so I forgot to take pictures. Next time.

in limbo

This was my 1st official weekend of the summer. I didn't really do anything special, but it was nice to be obligation free. I rearranged my living room, cleaned the house, rode my bike and hung out with friends. I went riding with two ladies that I recently met. It was nice to ride with women again, but it was much different than riding with the Hammer, Lauren and Nicole. It was a very recreational pace, they both had triples and one of them even wore one of those riding skirt things. It made me realize that I'm not ready to take it to the recreational level but I'm not wanting to race either. Guess I'm in limbo.

it's over for now...

Well, the test was on Monday and I am glad that it is over. I have no idea how it went, but no point in worrying about it anymore. I'll get the results in August. I didn't realize how tired I was from the whole thing until last night. I slept a solid 10 hrs last night and I'm still pooped. I am really excited with my big plans for the weekend. I am going to clean my house and ride my bikes. I feel like I have so much time now that I don't have to study :)

Mr. Granite Man 2008

Check this out. Peter made the paper! There are some good pictures and a great article.

Granite Man

Today Peter and I participated in teh Granite Man. Peter did the full triathalon and I did the 11 mile mountain trail run. It was a beautiful day out at Applegate. Here I am posing for my start. 2 miles later I was walking, but so was everyone else.
Here is Peter coming out of the swim. As you can see, there is snow in the background, but he said the water wasn't that cold. Maybe it just didn't feel cold because he going so FAST.
Peter and I represented for the Armstrong's today. Peter broke his chain and had to run the last 3 miles of the ride, but still managed to place 1st place in the event. GO PETER - Mr. Granite Man. I ended up 2nd in my age category. I was pleased with that since I was only up to 7 miles in my training. I have big plans for next year and Peter has a title to defend so we'll be back.
Here is the plaque that Peter won. It's not quite a delicious bottle of wine, like he won at his last event, but the wine is gone now and fueled the victory today.

Saint Theresa's Prayer

I am 3 days away from the exam and I am happy to say that I actually feel prepared for it. It has been the center of my life for the past 8 weeks - my number one priority. This test is supposed to be about public safety and welfare - nothing more and nothing less. Somehow it has taken on much greater meaning. Facing my fear of failure is one of those and the realization that I think this is a reflection on my professional competency, or lack of. I think these thoughts are part of the natural progression of getting liscenced. However, last June this section picked up even more baggage and over the past few weeks I've had some time to reflect on the past year. Last June when I was "preparing" for this exam it was the furthest thing from my mind - an anchor to Denver when I was ready to move on, an escape and a distraction from dealing with the loss of a wonderful new friend and it became a reflection and reality check on what real failure is. A year ago I had no idea where I would end up, but I had faith, the support of my family and friends and the guts to jump. I received this today and it is a wonderful reminder of the journey of the past year.


May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be confident knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.