We made it back from our little Spring Break trip just in time for "the big race". Our town hosts a relay ace for kids (adults too) each year- someday I would like to compete too. I've agreed to allow my Dad and Brother to be on my team should they pass the preliminary qualifying heats.
There are 4 legs to the relay race: running, kayaking, biking, and a pretty intense obstacle course. Our girls (on separate teams) took on the paddling without any previous experience (okay we had one practice day on the water and then did a lot of "broom rowing" in our living room).
Yes, real boats, a real river, and the real potential for tipping over. I ran along the shore with Laurel on my back, camera around my neck, shouting and cheering and praying.
No worries though, these girls never cease to amaze me. They were as cool as cucumbers, assuring me that they had it all figured out. Yes, I gave them the whole, "Its not about winning- just have fun" speech...but really, I was reveling in the fact that they were leaving all the other boats in their wake!
It was a beautiful day, the warmest yet this year. Emma and her friend did the race as a tandem, they worked so hard! After they crossed the finish line they used their water bottles to cool themselves off.
It is so great living in a community that encourages kids to experience ALL that our local environment has to offer. Getting outdoors and being active in the beauty of God's Creation is good for the spirit- a life-long enjoyment. The girls made us proud and we look forward to many more Race Days.
