Swimmers, Take Your MARK...

Swim season officially started in October, but we just had our first OFFICIAL meet.  I am always excited to see how the kids swim compared to others at the first meet.  Blake and Madison moved up a division so I was expecting them to not score as well.  Caitlin would FINALLY be out of Madison's lime light this year.  Both girls swam in the 8 and unders last year.  Caitlin did get  a little discouraged last year that she never got all the first place ribbons like Madison...

This is Caitlin's YEAR...  She got 2 first place ribbons and a third place ribbon (out of three races).  She was amazing.  She has worked hard for two years now in the pool and it is finally paying off for her.  She even took FIRST place backstroke for all 8 and unders...  AMAZING feat for such a little girl.  Her backstroke is beautiful and perfect - so smooth and effortless looking.

Let's just say that Madison saw her sister win the first place ribbon in backstroke...  AND that is Madison's stroke.  I did pep talk Madison up a little and her race was off.  She easily won first place.  YES, first place for 9 and 10 year olds.  Madison was so proud of herself.  I wasn't expecting either girl to do so well this year.  They are young for their age group and are competing with older girls...  GO TEAM ELIUK!!!!

Blake was also amazing.  He is a super consistent  swimmer.  Long distance is his thing.  His relay team came in first place.   He is also the sweetest team player.  He cheers everyone on and even gives tons of high fives...

Somedays I get a little tired of all the time we spend at the pool (and dance, trombone lessons, art, soccer) AND on the SLOPES hopefully very soon....  We practice 3 days a week from 7:15-8:15 at night.  BUT, when I go to a meet, I have tears of joy for these three amazing kids.

GO MCATS!!!!!

Madison and her good friend

I always love seeing their names on the big screen.

I hope you can see this video of Caitlin.  She is in the farthest lane to the right.  

Definitely not expecting this out of my little 7 year old!!!!!

Blake - back stroke

Back stroke sisters!

Madison - back stroke

Mommy GUILT

I have been really feeling a little guilty about being gone so much lately...  I really hate that feeling.  I have also really been struggling with middle school for Blake.  Why does it have to be so stressful raising kids?????  So, I had 7 kids at my house last night for a sleep over...  I just can't help giving my  kids EVERYTHING...  We are also off to the Detroit area to visit my parents and cousins.  Do I really like to be on the go so much?????

Blake wins the award for the best supporter!!!!!

Soccer season ends...

Swim season begins...

Rabbit cage 2.0...  Brett and the kids made an improved rabbit cage!

Caitlin and her "fashion" glasses...

Halloween FUN

We have the best neighborhood for trick or treating...  I love our tradition that we have.  First of all it starts with "GHOSTING" each other.  I always get excited to sneak around in the dark with the kids...

We also have families over for pizza on Halloween night and then caravan to another neighbors house for a little gathering BEFORE even heading out trick or treating.  It is so fun for the kids and adults.  This year, we had a trailer that we pulled the kids around in.  I'm not quite sure who actually has more fun...  I had a blast.  We had 22 kids on the trailer this year.  The rain didn't stop us.

The school Halloween parties and parades are enjoyed much more by the kids.  Of course, I volunteer to help out, but I do it for the kids sake.  It is a tad crazy for me.  Thankfully it is only once a year...

Madison's dance class

Cait and her BFF

I helped out at the snack station.

Cutest little bumble bee

Erica painted Caitlin's face.

The GANG!!!

Caitlin's dance class

Sister TIME

2nd Annual Sister Get A Way was amazing!  I flew into sunny Denver for 3 glorious nights with my two sisters.  From the second that I stepped foot off the airplane I was already relaxed.  I actually don't like flying, but I like to travel.

I met up with Charlene in the airport and we grabbed our bags and met Christy at the curb.  We were going out right from the airport.  We don't ever have much time to waste.  We ate, drank, laughed and had lots to catch up on...

Saturday was the hiking day.  I had no idea what to expect.  The scenery was so gorgeous.  Way better than I ever imagined.  Lori, Emily and I decided to do a little rock climbing.  I am always up for an adventure.  I did find myself a little nervous and anxious several times as we were climbing.  When we reached the top, it was a huge sense of accomplishment.

We filled our other days with shopping, movies, dinners, drinks and tons of chatting.  It was a wonderful, relaxing few days.  I can't even explain how important family is to me and how fulfilling it is to spend a few days with my two BIG sisters.  I love you ladies!!!!!