"Daddy has to work"

As I was getting out of bed this morning, I overheard McKenzie talking to Brynn in her room. Evan had just left for work and Brynn was crying. She is quite the daddy's girl and gets upset whenever he leaves. McKenzie tried to console her (in her mothering voice) by explaining, "Brynn, daddy HAS to go workout alright? He has to make money for us so we can eat cookies and go to the beach sometimes, and go to disneyland, and have a warm house in Seattle, and wear cute clothes. Alright? Ok? So, don't cry. Daddy will be right back sweetheart." I just sat there listening to this funny little conversation. She is pretty humorous. I don't remember the last time we went to the beach (unfortunately) and Disneyland isn't really in our near future...but we'll let the kid dream. At least she understands that we have a hard working dad!

Catie

A dear sweet friend of mine passed away last week after battling cancer for three years. She was an amazing person, full of kindness and laughter. She always made everyone around her feel loved and uplifted. I love that when the cancer returned to her lungs she launched a campaign in her home called "Choose to Be Happy."

Catie, I promise to keep our friendship in my heart. You have changed my life for the better because I have indeed been touched by your happiness, warmth, optimism, and incredible faith. Your beautiful smile will live on forever.

To read about Catie's story, visit her blog.

www.steve-catie.blogspot.com

A New Chapter

This is our new home, according to McKenzie. (Kim is our real estate agent)

We are opening a brand new chapter of our lives. We are nervous and excited to move our family to Redmond, WA next month. We have worked hard to save over the past few years to be able to invest in a home. Owning a house will be a lot of work, but we are ready for the challenge and responsibility it brings. We look forward to living closer to Evan's job, exploring a new beautiful state, and making new friends. Not having to pay state taxes is even a plus! Evan and I used to talk about living in Seattle when he was in Grad school. It is crazy that it is becoming a reality. Some may call it a self fulfilled prophecy; we call it meant to be. Moving is never easy, we know. But we are going to try hard to love our new life and raise our family in a great area. It is comforting to know that Evan's brother Luke lives up there, as well as my Aunt and Uncle. It will be nice to have family nearby. We hope you will all come up and visit us. I am sure we will be back fairly often, as we are going to miss our friends and family very much!

Christmas Pictures

Lots of time with Grandma. Brynn loved every second.


Cousin Love.


Uncle Sam love.


Ho Ho Ho...


Hanging out on Christmas Eve.


We found these two holding hands on their own.


McKenzie was so afraid but somehow managed to pull of a (fake) smile.


The kids in the infamous Christmas PJs.


Ray, Evan, Sam, Hannah, and Luke. (Boz is missing!)...part of the gang at Grandma Rae's house.

We had a fun Christmas at the Millar Ranch. Now on to the New Year. We'll take these memories with us. It was a fun family holiday.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

McKenzie hanging out by Santa while Mom and Dad argue over which tree is better.


Brynnzer enjoying the hunt for the perfect tree.

It's fun to hang ornaments with Kenz! (Not so much with Brynn). The older she gets, the more she understands spreading them out!

The finished product, complete with gifts from Grandma Liz. I love how cozy a tree makes a home.

Grandma and McKenzie enjoying the Christmas parade in downtown Pleasanton on Saturday night.

Turkey Trot 2009

McKenzie ran her first official race today! The Turkey Trot 2009 was a fun way to start our Thanksgiving Day.

Muir Beach Trail Run

Yesterday, I ran the Muir Beach trail run. It was a 17k run with intense climbs and inspiring views. This race packed in so many awesome views of the Pacific Coast from the ridges and cliffs above the Marin Headlands.


An incredible view:


Beginning the climb right off the starting line:


Single track (The crowd eventually thins out):


This hill was a slow and steady climb:

Looking out at Tiburon and Angel Island:


Finally, some downhill:

Crossing the finish line:

Here is what their aid stations look like. Yummy "fuel" (salt, sugar, gatorade, coke, etc):

Here is the fleet feet gang at the finish line. I love these ladies. (And thanks to Sandi for all the pictures!)


What is it like when a run like this ends and I come down from the trails?
Although my thighs can barely lift my feet, I feel strong.
With my legs covered in dirt and my clothes soaked with sweat, I feel clean.
Though fatigue pulses through every nerve, I feel well rested.
And somehow, even with my skin chafed and my body craving food, I feel whole.