Ironman Weekend

This past weekend, Nathan, Aaron, Hannah along with me, all volunteered for the 2008 Ironman Triathlon in Coeur d'Alene. We worked in the Transition area for the Swim to Bike transition. This is very exciting because the athletes come in to the change tent all at once for about an hour. We help them change from their wet suits to their biking clothing. This race starts out with a 2.4 mile swim in the cold water of Coeur d'Alene Lake (about 56 deg), then a 112 mile bike ride through the city and country side, then a full marathon run (26.2 miles). We knew several people but the one that captured our attention is Monica Suitter. She just returned from missionary work in China about three weeks ago and competed in the Ironman competition. She had no problem, doing very well at about 12hrs 52 minutes. Way to go Monica!!!!
"...and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1
This is a very appropriate verse for me because God has set my course before me and it started with Susan and our large family. God has had a plan for us all along. With Susan going to be with Jesus, God has left me in charge of our large family and He has a plan for me, and all the kids. He will not let me wander off course but if I keep my focus on Jesus, I can run with endurance. Not a sprint, but a full marathon plus. And it is exciting to say the least. Never a dull moment. Seeing Monica and the other athletes finish the Ironman, makes me think of our walk with Jesus and when we see Him we will have finished a pretty tough race. Susan has finished and did so with grace, stamina, faith and love for everyone around her. We are running with endurance with God's grace.


And the big news is yes we have a nanny!! Her name is Teresa and she is doing a fantastic job. The girls have really taken a liking to Teresa as you can tell from their big smiles in the picture. She has been cooking the evening meals with the young girls for that day. Also, doing chores with the young girls around the house, so the house is staying clean. I am appreciative of the structured care for the family for the two days a week that Teresa works right now. It will only be for the summer. This was definitely an answer to pray. Thank you Lord!
Praises:
1) For Teresa, our nanny, who is a believer as well
2) Aaron found a job, at Jamba Juice in CDA. He has been riding his bike to work, saving gas, and making some money. He really likes it.
3) I am sleeping better. I just need to get to bed earlier.
4) Work has been very understanding of my situation.
Prayer
1) Leah is working for the Forest Service fighting fires in Oregon. Well today, she called and she has been picked to go down to CA to help battle recent fires in Redding, CA. These fires have just started up due to lightening strikes. She was the only female to be picked and had to run 1.5 miles in less than 12 minutes to qualify. She ran in 11min 6 seconds. I will include a picture of Leah in action next time.
2) Our trip this weekend to Helena Montana, for the Vetsch family reunion. Will last three days through Sunday. Pray for safe travels and camp safety, fun and good fellowship.