Lessons learned walking 50 miles
By Isaac Will
Chapter coordinator
Contrary to popular belief, hiking 50 miles is a long way to walk.
We started our hike at 10 p.m. Friday, June 5. The weather was cool and the moon shone brightly over Lake Superior. Saturday started with happy muscles and joints. Although the weather remained ideal our physical condition started to deteriorate after about 20 miles. Great things require great sacrifice — and we were starting to feel the pain for the last 5 miles of the day.
A light rain started around 3 a.m. on Sunday, June 7. By the time I was getting out of my bivy at 6 a.m. it was down to a drizzle. I quickly realized that my body had not recovered throughout the night as I expected.
Just walking around camp and packing up our minimalist gear was painful. Thinking about doing another 25 miles seemed almost too much, too far, too many more calf-eating hills and knee-bashing rocky descents into river valleys, too many more miles of root-strewn trail that took out or ankles. We wondered if our bodies would make it.
But we really didn’t have a choice. Our car was parked at the end of our trail — 25 miles away. One way or another, we had to get there.
And this is how I sometimes feel in my daily life: Just waking up and getting through the day can seem like a huge and sometimes painful task. Trying to make a difference in the world and go the extra miles can seem too daunting and almost defeat you before you start.
I learned a few things along the way:
Always pack marshmallows.
Even when the destination seems too far away, just start walking. Take a step, then another, then another. You’ll get closer with every step. The more involved you are in the journey, the faster it will go by.
Miles, like time, will seemingly melt away. And when you are done, you can look back and say proudly: “I walked that trail.”
Don’t let failure be an option. If you are going to walk a trail in life, commit to it and park your car at the end. The harder you make it to quit the less likely you will.
Bring more Advil than you think you’ll need. It may not be easy going.
I know the work being done through Climbing for Christ IS making a difference. It is Kingdom work. I know my hike did not solve the food, water, and education problems, or the spiritual battles going on in Haiti, but it will make a difference. Dinner will be served. Salvation will be offered. To God be the glory – amen!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Haiti 50/50 adventu-raiser
First Annual
50-50 adventu-raiser
v Motivation: hunger, hydration, sanitation and education.
v Physical sacrifice: walk 50 miles of the Superior Hiking Trail in less than 50 hours.
v Goal: Raise $1,000+ for Haiti relief enablement
v Donation Request (tax deductable): $1 per mile walked ($50)
Hello, my name is Isaac Will. On May 27, I achieved 29 years of life. Now, more than ever, I understand that nothing greatly significant comes without great sacrifice- and usually some degree of pain and or blood. This, I have learned, is a good thing.
The same can be said of the process that brought me into this world- 29 years ago. So in honor of that which was done for me, the only gift I requested for my birthday was a donation to my 50/50 adventu-raiser for Haiti. To me, celebrating life, and passing the opportunity for sustained life, has brought a rejuvenated personal perspective on birthday celebrations. And really, when was the last time you gave a tax deductable birthday present?
I had the idea for the Haiti 50/50 on April 16, 2009. An emergency expedition was being mounted to support the work already being done in the Chaine de la Selle mountains of Haiti- and I was invited. Long story short, I could not go. A week ago my schedule cleared. I could do the Haiti 50/50.
So it got me thinking: “What are the odds for us? 50/50?”
o We will eat more than one meal today.
o We have water to drink.
o We have a toilet.
o We had an opportunity for education.
For the people in the Chaine de la Selle mountains of Haiti, their odds are far less than 50%
And so my heart replied:
o This event is in recognition of the struggle for life in the mountains of Haiti and to participate in some way to their resolution; regardless how large or small a contribution we can provide.
o While one meal for one family may not seem like much in relation to a population of 9 million people- but to that one family, it means dinner is served. It means energy to tend the family’s fields. It means waiting to pick the crops until they are ready.
50/50 can be good odds- or not:
· Card games- yes.
· Heads or tails for a football kickoff- yes.
· Having water to drink- no.
· Chances of eating a dinner today- no.
· Medical care to treat easily curable diseases and injuries- no.
Some statistics about Haiti:
· * 70%: the unemployment rate (the USA is at roughly 8%)
This number is much worse in the mountains where the vast majority of people are subsistence farmers.
· * 500-700: the average number of calories consumed per person each day.
· * 450’: The number of vertical feet people of Gentilhomme have to descend and climb back up to get water.
You can read more about what what is happening in Haiti here:
Donations:
Paypal:
Link to use Paypal:
or
Mail:
Send a check (payable to Climbing For Christ) to Climbing For Christ, Inc., P.O. Box 16290, Rochester, N.Y. 14616-0290. Thank you!
Learn more about Climbing for Christ
Click HERE to register and become a member of Climbing for Christ. Members receive access to and updates on Evangelic Expeditions and chapter events, a quarterly news letter (The Climbing Way), access to the discussion boards and opportunities to take your faith to new heights!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Valentine's Day 2009
Sometimes bad things can be good. In a lesson we continue to learn through life, when things don't go as planned, there opens an opportunity. With three days remaining before Valentine's day, the rain had melted all the snow. We were planning on going snow shoeing. We told our wives we had a "Plan B" - what we did not tell them was that "Plan B" was to think of something, and quick.
I really wanted this year to be special for Nicole and Tamara and since we had already planned the day as couples, it presented a unique opportunity to send Nicole on an adventure with Tamara. Dan (Tamara's husband and all around amazing guy and brewer) was excited by what I proposed and we quickly started developing the idea, identifying locations, securing contacts and appointments to make this day as special as possible.
After all, we only had 36 total hours until the adventure would begin.
I had a lot to do and little time to do it. After Nicole went to bed on Friday night I started my arts and crafts project, creating the maps, clues, cards and adding a voice over to the actual "Amazing Race" intro song.
3:30am rolled around faster than I wanted and I knew I would be getting up in 4-5 hours to take Eliana to the store for doughnuts. I wasn't done but I had to get some sleep.
Luckily, after doughnuts, Eliana and I had time to glue all the clues together and put the logos on the envelopes. I finished with about 30 minutes before we had to leave.
Dan and Tamara were going to meet us at the Mahoney household. After we were all there, I told the girls that "I forgot something and Dan and I were going to be right back". Ha Ha Ha
Dan and I left to start leaving clues around the city and only had a 10 minute start on the girls. When the 10 minutes elapsed, Jill, my mother-in-law, brought out the first clue and played the CD to kick off "The Amazing Race- Valentine Edition". The race was on and the fun was just getting going.
Here is a short compilation of where they went and what they had to do.
Dan and I had a blast putting it together and our wives had an unforgettable adventure. The day was a success.
After dinner, the girls told us that they were going to be responsible for next year, I can't wait to see what they come up with! I figure if we can do this with 36 hours...
I really wanted this year to be special for Nicole and Tamara and since we had already planned the day as couples, it presented a unique opportunity to send Nicole on an adventure with Tamara. Dan (Tamara's husband and all around amazing guy and brewer) was excited by what I proposed and we quickly started developing the idea, identifying locations, securing contacts and appointments to make this day as special as possible.
After all, we only had 36 total hours until the adventure would begin.
I had a lot to do and little time to do it. After Nicole went to bed on Friday night I started my arts and crafts project, creating the maps, clues, cards and adding a voice over to the actual "Amazing Race" intro song.
3:30am rolled around faster than I wanted and I knew I would be getting up in 4-5 hours to take Eliana to the store for doughnuts. I wasn't done but I had to get some sleep.
Luckily, after doughnuts, Eliana and I had time to glue all the clues together and put the logos on the envelopes. I finished with about 30 minutes before we had to leave.
Dan and Tamara were going to meet us at the Mahoney household. After we were all there, I told the girls that "I forgot something and Dan and I were going to be right back". Ha Ha Ha
Dan and I left to start leaving clues around the city and only had a 10 minute start on the girls. When the 10 minutes elapsed, Jill, my mother-in-law, brought out the first clue and played the CD to kick off "The Amazing Race- Valentine Edition". The race was on and the fun was just getting going.
Here is a short compilation of where they went and what they had to do.
Dan and I had a blast putting it together and our wives had an unforgettable adventure. The day was a success.
After dinner, the girls told us that they were going to be responsible for next year, I can't wait to see what they come up with! I figure if we can do this with 36 hours...
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Rain, rain, go away...
So, January was one of the coldest on record, February seems to have missed the winter memo and it has been raining for a few days. Luckily we were able to get in one great day of sledding before the rains came and washed the snow away.
I hope you enjoy the photos!
I hope you enjoy the photos!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
I love road trips
I love road trips- especially ones that go down memory lane.
Here is the first of many videos that make me fell all warm and fuzzy inside.
I hope you enjoy.
Here is the first of many videos that make me fell all warm and fuzzy inside.
I hope you enjoy.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
I love cold weather
If you know me, you know I love cold. Sleeping outside in -20 with -40 wind chill, yeah done that. Playing outside all day long in the winter- yep, still do that.
There is the old proverb: "there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing." Word.
I just got this via email, enjoy.
Cold Weather behavior:
60 above zero: Floridians turn on the heat. Minnesotans plant gardens.
50 above zero: Californians shiver uncontrollably. People are sunbathing in Duluth .
40 above zero: Import cars won't start. Minnesotans drive with the sunroof open.
32 above zero: Distilled water freezes. The water in Bemidji gets thicker.
20 above zero: New Mexicans don long johns, parkas and wool hats & mittens. Minnesotans throw on a flannel shirt.
15 above zero: New York landlords finally turn on the heat. People in Minnesota have one last cookout before it gets cold.
Zero: People in Miami all die. Minnesotans close the windows.
10 below zero: Californians fly away to Mexico . Minnesotans dig their winter coats out of storage.
25 below zero: Hollywood disintegrates. Girl Scouts in Minnesota are selling cookies door to door.
40 below zero: Washington , D.C. finally runs out of hot air. People in Minnesota let their dogs sleep indoors.
100 below zero: Santa Claus abandons the North Pole. Minnesotans get upset because the Mini-Van won't start.
460 below zero: ALL atomic motion stops (absolute zero on the Kelvin scale). People in Minnesota can be heard to say, "Cold 'nuff fer ya?"
500 below zero: Hell freezes over. Minnesota schools delayed 2 hours.
There is the old proverb: "there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing." Word.
I just got this via email, enjoy.
Cold Weather behavior:
60 above zero: Floridians turn on the heat. Minnesotans plant gardens.
50 above zero: Californians shiver uncontrollably. People are sunbathing in Duluth .
40 above zero: Import cars won't start. Minnesotans drive with the sunroof open.
32 above zero: Distilled water freezes. The water in Bemidji gets thicker.
20 above zero: New Mexicans don long johns, parkas and wool hats & mittens. Minnesotans throw on a flannel shirt.
15 above zero: New York landlords finally turn on the heat. People in Minnesota have one last cookout before it gets cold.
Zero: People in Miami all die. Minnesotans close the windows.
10 below zero: Californians fly away to Mexico . Minnesotans dig their winter coats out of storage.
25 below zero: Hollywood disintegrates. Girl Scouts in Minnesota are selling cookies door to door.
40 below zero: Washington , D.C. finally runs out of hot air. People in Minnesota let their dogs sleep indoors.
100 below zero: Santa Claus abandons the North Pole. Minnesotans get upset because the Mini-Van won't start.
460 below zero: ALL atomic motion stops (absolute zero on the Kelvin scale). People in Minnesota can be heard to say, "Cold 'nuff fer ya?"
500 below zero: Hell freezes over. Minnesota schools delayed 2 hours.
Monday, January 5, 2009
I love Mondays
Shrek, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt were all having lunch together.
Shrek said, 'I have always thought that I'm the strongest man in the
world, but how can I be sure?
Brad Pitt said, 'I'm pretty sure I'm the most handsome man alive but
I've never had it confirmed.'
Angelina Jolie agreed. 'I'm told I'm the sexiest of them all, but
sometimes I wonder.'
They all decided that the best way to find out if their beliefs were
true was to ask the famed talking 'mirror, mirror on the wall' to
confirm for them whether Shrek was the strongest, Brad Pitt was the
most handsome. Angelina Jolie was the sexiest.
They agreed to meet again the next day for lunch to discuss their
findings.
The next day Shrek walked up with a smile. 'Well, it's true. The mirror
told me that I am the strongest man in the world.' Brad perked up
and said: 'And I know for sure that I'm the most handsome man
alive.' But
Angelina lifted her sad but pretty face and said...
Who the heck is Nicole?
Shrek said, 'I have always thought that I'm the strongest man in the
world, but how can I be sure?
Brad Pitt said, 'I'm pretty sure I'm the most handsome man alive but
I've never had it confirmed.'
Angelina Jolie agreed. 'I'm told I'm the sexiest of them all, but
sometimes I wonder.'
They all decided that the best way to find out if their beliefs were
true was to ask the famed talking 'mirror, mirror on the wall' to
confirm for them whether Shrek was the strongest, Brad Pitt was the
most handsome. Angelina Jolie was the sexiest.
They agreed to meet again the next day for lunch to discuss their
findings.
The next day Shrek walked up with a smile. 'Well, it's true. The mirror
told me that I am the strongest man in the world.' Brad perked up
and said: 'And I know for sure that I'm the most handsome man
alive.' But
Angelina lifted her sad but pretty face and said...
Who the heck is Nicole?
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Where have the last few months gone?
A brief overview of our lives the past few months:
- I learned how to make my first apple pie from scratch! Thanks Ann :)
-Discovered the pain of losing co-workers and dear friends to layoffs at work (3 in my department), yes, I've been living at work.
-Attended a great seminar at the Hyatt on aging and elder care services in November.
-Isaac went to NY for a Climbing for Christ board of director meeting.
-Went to the new W hotel for a fun benefit and a much needed GNO with Anna L.
-We had our membership interview at Grace and became members at our new church. We love our new pastor and our excited to get plugged in!
-Isaac, Molly and Jamie and I spent Molly's birthday at dinner downtown and seeing Wicked! Yes, it does live up to the hype :)
-Eliana turned 2! We spent the weekend with both families and went downtown to the Macy's display- she was so cute, enjoyed every moment...I think she was on sensory overload. Gramma and Grandpa took lots of fun pics
-We checked out the new CSI exhibit at the Science Museum- so much fun, if you haven't been- go!
-Salsa dancing anyone? We taught a group of couples salsa dance! It was for their Christmas party- next time, I think Isaac and I will chat a bit more before the lesson- that way we'll be on the same dancing page!! Right honey??
-Date night to celebrate Christmas: Isaac and I went to Pazzaluna for a wonderful dinner and then off to the Ordway to see White Christmas. It was fantastic- the music, colors, and dancing. And we managed to NOT talk about Eliana, money or work :) (thanks to our couples group for the great advice!!!)
-My honey just got home from ice climbing in Sandstone- yes, he just missed the big storm.
Now we are just gearing up for the holidays!! Given my busy work schedule the past couple months I did all my Christmas shopping online- I'm hooked! No busy stores, parking, etc.
Just me in bed with my laptop :)
Merry Christmas- sorry we are not on the ball of mailing out Christmas cards this year. Next year!
- I learned how to make my first apple pie from scratch! Thanks Ann :)
-Discovered the pain of losing co-workers and dear friends to layoffs at work (3 in my department), yes, I've been living at work.
-Attended a great seminar at the Hyatt on aging and elder care services in November.
-Isaac went to NY for a Climbing for Christ board of director meeting.
-Went to the new W hotel for a fun benefit and a much needed GNO with Anna L.
-We had our membership interview at Grace and became members at our new church. We love our new pastor and our excited to get plugged in!
-Isaac, Molly and Jamie and I spent Molly's birthday at dinner downtown and seeing Wicked! Yes, it does live up to the hype :)
-Eliana turned 2! We spent the weekend with both families and went downtown to the Macy's display- she was so cute, enjoyed every moment...I think she was on sensory overload. Gramma and Grandpa took lots of fun pics
-We checked out the new CSI exhibit at the Science Museum- so much fun, if you haven't been- go!
-Salsa dancing anyone? We taught a group of couples salsa dance! It was for their Christmas party- next time, I think Isaac and I will chat a bit more before the lesson- that way we'll be on the same dancing page!! Right honey??
-Date night to celebrate Christmas: Isaac and I went to Pazzaluna for a wonderful dinner and then off to the Ordway to see White Christmas. It was fantastic- the music, colors, and dancing. And we managed to NOT talk about Eliana, money or work :) (thanks to our couples group for the great advice!!!)
-My honey just got home from ice climbing in Sandstone- yes, he just missed the big storm.
Now we are just gearing up for the holidays!! Given my busy work schedule the past couple months I did all my Christmas shopping online- I'm hooked! No busy stores, parking, etc.
Just me in bed with my laptop :)
Merry Christmas- sorry we are not on the ball of mailing out Christmas cards this year. Next year!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Dimples is ready to road trip
Hi and great evening (well, technically morning but who is splitting hairs when you don't have much hair to split?)
After much trial and error, Dimples (my Subaru Outback) is running right as rain!
Ever since September 14 I have been having problems with Dimples. He was just not running right and it led to many hours in the garage trying to troubleshoot the problem with out spending large sums amounts of money.
I didn't get to buy any new tools as most projects wort working on allow but I did learn a lot about Subaru engines, how cool they really are, and how to use a voltage multimeter.
I am excited. I am elated. I have a car Nicole will ride in again!
Here is a sample of what I did...
After much trial and error, Dimples (my Subaru Outback) is running right as rain!
Ever since September 14 I have been having problems with Dimples. He was just not running right and it led to many hours in the garage trying to troubleshoot the problem with out spending large sums amounts of money.
I didn't get to buy any new tools as most projects wort working on allow but I did learn a lot about Subaru engines, how cool they really are, and how to use a voltage multimeter.
I am excited. I am elated. I have a car Nicole will ride in again!
Here is a sample of what I did...
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
I've been tagged!
My girlie Rach tagged me on her blog- I love doing these questions
1. At what age do/did you (wish to) have children?
-I didn't really have a plan on what age I'd have children, I just wanted to see where we were at in life. It ended up being 27 was the age we had Eliana.
2. What color do you like most?
-Is Black a color?? That's my fav
3. If you can have a superpower, what would it be?
-To be able to travel anywhere for free!!
4. If you can travel anywhere in the world, where would you want to go?
-Greece!!
5. Which part of you do you hate the most?
-My need for being in control
6. When you get sad, what do you do?
-Get quiet and distance myself
7. What book are you reading now?
-Sex god by Rob Bell...it's a good read, we are reading it in our couple's group
8. If you win $1 million, what would you do with the money?
-Travel, missions work, college for E, buy some horses
9. What did you love the most about last year (2007)?
-Having a happy and healthy family
10. How did you get your name?
-My parents had a name book and liked the name Nicole
11. What is the moment you regret most?
-hmmm....luckily I REALLY have to think about this one...probably not traveling abroad in college.
12. What type of person do you hate the most?
-I would say Hate is a strong word. I get bugged when people are late, inconsistent and not dependable
13. What is your greatest asset?
-My caring heart
14. If you had one wish, what would you wish for?
-For my dad's movie to be #1 at the box office :)
15. How did you celebrate the New Year?
-I don't remember! I need to go back and look at my calendar...so sad
16. Name the one body part your hubby or significant other tells you (s)he adores.
-My little nose
17. It’s 2008. What are you looking forward to this year?
-Spending more time with people I love
18. Anything in your life that you wish weren’t so awful?
-Nope! God is good :)
19. What’s the shallowest thing you intend to do this year?
-I have to agree with Rach, I'm a sucker for celebrity gossip and I'll be reading my US Weekly, yup, I know...it's pretty shallow
20. What’s the meaning of life?
-For me? It's to serve the Lord and bring his message of life and hope to others. Life is about loving others well.
I would love to hear what you guys think...copy and paste this in a message and send it out. Sorry, I don't know how to tag people yet on my blog! Cheers!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Halloween 2008
So, who does Frankenstein take to the prom?
His ghoul friend!
This was Eliana's first time trick or treating! She was running from house to house yelling "trick or treat!!" at the top of her lungs. We spent the night at my gramma Maxyne's house- their neighborhood goes all out for Halloween, lot's of decorations and festivities. Grandma Ann, Grandpa Tim, Lexi,Tiffany, Michael, Ingrid and Milo all joined in the for the party!
His ghoul friend!
This was Eliana's first time trick or treating! She was running from house to house yelling "trick or treat!!" at the top of her lungs. We spent the night at my gramma Maxyne's house- their neighborhood goes all out for Halloween, lot's of decorations and festivities. Grandma Ann, Grandpa Tim, Lexi,Tiffany, Michael, Ingrid and Milo all joined in the for the party!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Eliana's First Ascent
 |
| The Eliana Wall |
October 30th, 2008 Newswire
Eliana Will made the first ascent of her new line she called "Eliana" on the Eliana Wall at the WonderWill bouldering cave in Chanhassen. She was hanging out in the garage with her dad when she walked up to the wall and started climbing- and she didn't stop until she got to the top! There are no pictures of this first ascent as her dad was too busy spotting her to get a camera out. Proportionately, it would be like an adult free climbing a 20' tall wall (the Eliana Wall is 7' tall and 4' wide.)
Since there are no photos of the first ascent, a second ascent is planned for the near future with a full photo and video crew to document the ascent.
Eliana's dad has had a permanent smile since his daughters first ascent. He said in a recent interview "I knew she could always do it, I just didn't think she would on-site the route as quickly as she did! My little girl has got skills, mad skills! I am so proud of her!"
Shortly after helping his daughter return to flat ground, Eliana's dad smiled and shed a single tear.
Stay tuned as more photos and videos are posted from the next historic ascent.
 |
| Constructing the WonderWill Bouldering Cave |
 |
| Who says power tools and toddlers don't mix? Eliana removing old holds so the panel can be painted. |
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Foliage- just a fun word to say
The first annual C4C MN Chapter Fall Foliage Family Fun Hike was a great success. Six people participated in the pleasant 3.5 mile hike through the rolling St. Croix River valley in Afton State Park. It was also the first C4C event for the newly married Eckers family. Congratulations to Gabe and Michelle! They have a great story about their relationship- I encourage everyone to ask them about it some time.
The prior evening's weather check called for clear skies but my windshield wipers were intermittently oscillating across my windshield during most of my drive to Afton due to a light drizzle that followed the newly arrived cold front.
Just as we have hope in things unseen, I knew the drizzle would fizzle as the sun got higher and we would have a great hike.
The hiking path was well maintained and allowed us to enjoy the conversation and sights along the way. We spent most of our time getting to know each other, telling stories and enjoying the excitement of a toddler in the woods. The trees were not quite in full color yet but you could tell they were on the verge of a color explosion. Eliana (22 months old) hiked up the biggest hill of her life, all while singing parts of the ABCs, "happy birthday", and "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart".
At the peak height of the trail, the park service had cut and burned about 10 acres of prairie grass that surrounded the hiking path, leaving the ground blackened and barren. Sporadic trees were left standing. They looked lonely. It reminded me about the photos I have seen from Haiti and we talked about life in Gentilhomme, what it is like, how God brought C4C there, and what is happening now (read about it here).
We stopped for lunch when we reached the banks of the St. Croix River. There was a large log laying high on the bank that served as both our chairs and table. It was an especially great experience for me; eating lunch with my daughter while sitting on a massive log next to a river that will ultimately flow it's waters into the Gulf of Mexico- thousands of miles away.
We took time to smell the leaves, touch pine needles, skip rocks in the river and watch leaves float down a creek to the St. Croix. I would say we are all better friends and that the MN Chapter has started a great annual tradition with the Fall Foliage Family Fun hike!
The prior evening's weather check called for clear skies but my windshield wipers were intermittently oscillating across my windshield during most of my drive to Afton due to a light drizzle that followed the newly arrived cold front.
Just as we have hope in things unseen, I knew the drizzle would fizzle as the sun got higher and we would have a great hike.
The hiking path was well maintained and allowed us to enjoy the conversation and sights along the way. We spent most of our time getting to know each other, telling stories and enjoying the excitement of a toddler in the woods. The trees were not quite in full color yet but you could tell they were on the verge of a color explosion. Eliana (22 months old) hiked up the biggest hill of her life, all while singing parts of the ABCs, "happy birthday", and "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart".
At the peak height of the trail, the park service had cut and burned about 10 acres of prairie grass that surrounded the hiking path, leaving the ground blackened and barren. Sporadic trees were left standing. They looked lonely. It reminded me about the photos I have seen from Haiti and we talked about life in Gentilhomme, what it is like, how God brought C4C there, and what is happening now (read about it here).
We stopped for lunch when we reached the banks of the St. Croix River. There was a large log laying high on the bank that served as both our chairs and table. It was an especially great experience for me; eating lunch with my daughter while sitting on a massive log next to a river that will ultimately flow it's waters into the Gulf of Mexico- thousands of miles away.
We took time to smell the leaves, touch pine needles, skip rocks in the river and watch leaves float down a creek to the St. Croix. I would say we are all better friends and that the MN Chapter has started a great annual tradition with the Fall Foliage Family Fun hike!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Hunting Widow...
Do you feel sorry for me?? :) I'll be a hunting widow 4 weekends this fall. Isaac decided to join the Mahoney boys in WI for some good old fashion deer hunting with a bow and arrow. Last weekend was the first adventure...needless to say it was unsuccessful. I secretly think Isaac just likes the excuse to sit in the woods all weekend!
I was blessed with some good mommy/daughter time. We hung out all weekend together, running errands, visiting friends and seeing family. I miss Isaac though when he is gone :( We got so excited for him to come back.
This weekend I'm heading to Denver with the fam to see my beautiful cousin get married to the man of her dreams. I can't wait!! It's funny because when Isaac and I vacationed in Denver last summer we met her for lunch and she talked about how she met this guy the other day and "there's something different and so great" about him. Yup! He's the one she was talking about!!!
I was blessed with some good mommy/daughter time. We hung out all weekend together, running errands, visiting friends and seeing family. I miss Isaac though when he is gone :( We got so excited for him to come back.
This weekend I'm heading to Denver with the fam to see my beautiful cousin get married to the man of her dreams. I can't wait!! It's funny because when Isaac and I vacationed in Denver last summer we met her for lunch and she talked about how she met this guy the other day and "there's something different and so great" about him. Yup! He's the one she was talking about!!!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Firsts!
This weekend we had our first taste of Philippino food...it was delicious. Our good friends R and D made Pancit (I think that's what it was called), or called Celebration Noodles. Eliana couldn't get enough, she was even eating off of D's plate it was so cute. We can't wait until the two E's can play together!! They are adopting E from the Philippines :)
Another first this weekend was biking 20 miles in the rain!! For all of you bike riders out there, check out the Cannon Falls Trail. It's a gorgeous bike trail that take you all the way from Cannon Falls to Red Wing along the river. The leaves and the scenery are awesome. We went with another couple, T and D. Eliana was such a trooper. She actually slept for half of the trip. The last half hour all we could talked about was what we were going to order for lunch at the local bar and grill. A burger never tasted so good!
Another first this weekend was biking 20 miles in the rain!! For all of you bike riders out there, check out the Cannon Falls Trail. It's a gorgeous bike trail that take you all the way from Cannon Falls to Red Wing along the river. The leaves and the scenery are awesome. We went with another couple, T and D. Eliana was such a trooper. She actually slept for half of the trip. The last half hour all we could talked about was what we were going to order for lunch at the local bar and grill. A burger never tasted so good!
 |
| From Cannon River Trail 2008 with the Brunn's |
 |
| From Cannon River Trail 2008 with the Brunn's |
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Getting back into it...
It seems overwhelming on where to begin when we haven't been the best at keeping our blog updated! Oops! For starters, this summer has been fun and busy- a great combination.
Isaac and I both took a couple weeks off this summer to be with Eliana. We went camping, played outside, finished house projects, went to the zoo, and spent a lot of time at Grandma Ann's and Grandpa Tim's pool. Eliana is not scared of water at all and in fact jumped off the diving board last weekend- no fear!
This summer has also been full of beautiful weddings and blessings of baby showers and wedding showers. I think we are in a time of life where our friends are getting hitched or having babies! It's so fun. One of Isaac's climbing buddies got married outside at a beautiful farm- they couldn't have asked for more perfect wedding. It was actually the same day of our wedding anniversary so Isaac and I reminisced about our wedding day- it was a great way to spend and celebrate an anniversary. Isaac and I celebrated 6 wonderful years :)
My college roommate will be getting married in October. A couple of weekends ago about 25 girls celebrated with her. We went out on Lake Minnetonka from 10-4:30 pm for a day in the sun with cocktails and music, I think most of us spent the day catching up with each other. Then we cleaned up for a night out in Hopkins. Skip going downtown ladies, a night out at Mainstreets was a BLAST!! The live band was awesome- we danced the night away and felt like we were in college again. It's fun to relive the good ole days :)
One of the best things I did this summer was go to the Beth Moore conference in July. I went with all of the ladies in my family- mom, Molly, Ingrid, Auntie Jill, Mikaela, and my adopted auntie T. If you haven't been to hear her speak, please make time too! She is inspired and will challenge you. That was a highlight. So much in fact that all the ladies in my family will be doing her bible study together this fall. I can't wait!!
A couple of exciting house projects are underway as we speak. My hubby is in the garage with his buddies building a climbing wall- yes, you heard me correctly :) It's quite the structure. He's assured me that it won't interrupt my parking or storage. I decided that I'm picking my battles on this one- he's really excited about it and I don't need to make a stink of it! I'm sure Eliana will be climbing by the time she is 2, which will be in 2 months!!
Another fun project we did this summer was complete the back patio and add some landscaping features. We also tore up the front- removed all of the rock, added landscaping pavers, and put up 2 gorgeous iron window boxes on the two front big windows. I know, I should have pictures but Isaac will have to add them as I'm not that computer savvy. So my next hobby I will be undertaking is gardening. Right now I'm just asking people lots of questions, checking out EVERY ONE'S yard work, and taking lots of pictures. I think next spring will be the big planting.
Every year we go to the State Fair with my parents in honor of their anniversary. Eliana, like every kid, loves the animals and the good food. It was Milo's first time at the fair, it was my favorite just to watch him with his "firsts" at the fair. Eliana and Milo love to be together- they play, laugh and kiss each other all the time, it's so cute. I'm thinking next year we might get a sitter and leave the kiddies at home, as much as I love having her there it's really hard to see everything with a little one in tow.
We also celebrated two wonderful events this summer as well. My sister in law Sara celebrated the big 3-0 and Tiffany graduated from College!! I love these ladies so much. We had so much fun!! Sara had a fiesta themed party with the works- gourmet food, a pinata, margarita's and salsa music. Tiffany had a Hawaiian themed party with fresh fruit and kabobs, amazing pies, and good drinks. I always learn so much from Ann and the girls about how to throw a good party. I swear- they should all go into business together- a party planning and executing business. They'd be awesome.
One of the best things that happened this summer is that my closest friend and high school girlfriend, Katie Mc, moved back to MN from Denver with her family. I can't tell you the peace and joy I get just knowing that I can hug her or see her whenever I want!! She is the most loving person, she just gets me and is a great listener. She is also the best hair stylist I've ever met too :) She'll be working at Juut in Edina- for any of you that need a hair cut!!
I think that wraps up our summer. I'll have Isaac posts some pics!! Let us know what you've been up to this summer!
Isaac and I both took a couple weeks off this summer to be with Eliana. We went camping, played outside, finished house projects, went to the zoo, and spent a lot of time at Grandma Ann's and Grandpa Tim's pool. Eliana is not scared of water at all and in fact jumped off the diving board last weekend- no fear!
This summer has also been full of beautiful weddings and blessings of baby showers and wedding showers. I think we are in a time of life where our friends are getting hitched or having babies! It's so fun. One of Isaac's climbing buddies got married outside at a beautiful farm- they couldn't have asked for more perfect wedding. It was actually the same day of our wedding anniversary so Isaac and I reminisced about our wedding day- it was a great way to spend and celebrate an anniversary. Isaac and I celebrated 6 wonderful years :)
My college roommate will be getting married in October. A couple of weekends ago about 25 girls celebrated with her. We went out on Lake Minnetonka from 10-4:30 pm for a day in the sun with cocktails and music, I think most of us spent the day catching up with each other. Then we cleaned up for a night out in Hopkins. Skip going downtown ladies, a night out at Mainstreets was a BLAST!! The live band was awesome- we danced the night away and felt like we were in college again. It's fun to relive the good ole days :)
One of the best things I did this summer was go to the Beth Moore conference in July. I went with all of the ladies in my family- mom, Molly, Ingrid, Auntie Jill, Mikaela, and my adopted auntie T. If you haven't been to hear her speak, please make time too! She is inspired and will challenge you. That was a highlight. So much in fact that all the ladies in my family will be doing her bible study together this fall. I can't wait!!
A couple of exciting house projects are underway as we speak. My hubby is in the garage with his buddies building a climbing wall- yes, you heard me correctly :) It's quite the structure. He's assured me that it won't interrupt my parking or storage. I decided that I'm picking my battles on this one- he's really excited about it and I don't need to make a stink of it! I'm sure Eliana will be climbing by the time she is 2, which will be in 2 months!!
Another fun project we did this summer was complete the back patio and add some landscaping features. We also tore up the front- removed all of the rock, added landscaping pavers, and put up 2 gorgeous iron window boxes on the two front big windows. I know, I should have pictures but Isaac will have to add them as I'm not that computer savvy. So my next hobby I will be undertaking is gardening. Right now I'm just asking people lots of questions, checking out EVERY ONE'S yard work, and taking lots of pictures. I think next spring will be the big planting.
Every year we go to the State Fair with my parents in honor of their anniversary. Eliana, like every kid, loves the animals and the good food. It was Milo's first time at the fair, it was my favorite just to watch him with his "firsts" at the fair. Eliana and Milo love to be together- they play, laugh and kiss each other all the time, it's so cute. I'm thinking next year we might get a sitter and leave the kiddies at home, as much as I love having her there it's really hard to see everything with a little one in tow.
We also celebrated two wonderful events this summer as well. My sister in law Sara celebrated the big 3-0 and Tiffany graduated from College!! I love these ladies so much. We had so much fun!! Sara had a fiesta themed party with the works- gourmet food, a pinata, margarita's and salsa music. Tiffany had a Hawaiian themed party with fresh fruit and kabobs, amazing pies, and good drinks. I always learn so much from Ann and the girls about how to throw a good party. I swear- they should all go into business together- a party planning and executing business. They'd be awesome.
One of the best things that happened this summer is that my closest friend and high school girlfriend, Katie Mc, moved back to MN from Denver with her family. I can't tell you the peace and joy I get just knowing that I can hug her or see her whenever I want!! She is the most loving person, she just gets me and is a great listener. She is also the best hair stylist I've ever met too :) She'll be working at Juut in Edina- for any of you that need a hair cut!!
I think that wraps up our summer. I'll have Isaac posts some pics!! Let us know what you've been up to this summer!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Empty nesters- for a night
Last weekend, Eliana got to spend the night with Grandma and Grandpa Schinke. They had a blast but we really missed the baby bubs.
The house is too quiet
while I make too much noise.
I let the door slam behind me,
Step on the creaky wood floor boards
and walk around with my electric toothbrush buzzing away.
Yes, it is too quiet we agree.
We know she is at grandma and grandpa's house.
We know she is in capable and loving hands.
But we miss her.
we miss boisterous sounds before bedtime
and We miss having to be quiet after.
we miss having her wake up so we can bring her back to bed to cuddle
we miss the softness of her breath on your neck
as she drapes over your shoulder while you carry her to bed.
We missed her gentle stirring in the morning-
her mind slowly waking but her body not willing to let go of sleep.
We missed her arms outstretched, waiting to be embraced.
Sometimes a little noise (or not being able to make a sound)
can be a good thing.
The house is too quiet
while I make too much noise.
I let the door slam behind me,
Step on the creaky wood floor boards
and walk around with my electric toothbrush buzzing away.
Yes, it is too quiet we agree.
We know she is at grandma and grandpa's house.
We know she is in capable and loving hands.
But we miss her.
we miss boisterous sounds before bedtime
and We miss having to be quiet after.
we miss having her wake up so we can bring her back to bed to cuddle
we miss the softness of her breath on your neck
as she drapes over your shoulder while you carry her to bed.
We missed her gentle stirring in the morning-
her mind slowly waking but her body not willing to let go of sleep.
We missed her arms outstretched, waiting to be embraced.
Sometimes a little noise (or not being able to make a sound)
can be a good thing.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
a boy!
Well folks, light those cigars and lift your hands up in praise! We just heard from our friends Rachel and Dave that they will be the proud parents of a baby boy!
http://ribaradoption.blogspot.com/
Congratulations to them and to their new baby boy Ezekiel- I can't wait to meet him and to watch Eliana and Ezekiel play together!
http://ribaradoption.blogspot.com/
Congratulations to them and to their new baby boy Ezekiel- I can't wait to meet him and to watch Eliana and Ezekiel play together!
pictures from the 4th of July
Here are some photos from this years 4th. Enjoy - and don't forget to leave comments!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)