Thoughts

"You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives within you."

-Frederick Buechner

Urban Assault Ride '09

Last Sunday, September 27, was the Urban Assault Ride in Minneapolis. This year, Monte teamed up with Justin (who also rode RAGBRAI with him in July) and they got 3rd place in the men's division! Just like last year, Ani and I drove around and met them at different check points in the city. This scavenger hunt-type bike race is so fun to watch - I imagine even more fun to participate in.

Since our camera is out of order and at the Canon repair shop (I'm so sad about this), I took a bunch of photos with Justin's camera, but he hasn't had a chance to email them to us yet. But here's a photo we found on the UAR blog of the top three men's teams. Go Team M.O.W.!

On the Cusp of Cyclo-Cross

Although it officially started this past Sunday, cyclo-cross season for our household will start this weekend... or will it? Considering all this rain combined with Monte's ongoing cold and ear infection - there is talk of not going. We'll see. Race is in Hudson on Sat. and Orono on Sun., if I remember correctly.

Family Gathering

The Griswold's.... uh, I mean the TeStrake's met up in Des Moines last weekend. We all stayed in the Jordan Creek area and mostly hung out together at the hotel. Our big day was Saturday, which we spent at Adventureland. There were even a few rides for Ani - she rode more rides than her dad, I think! We had a lot of fun, weather was nice - not too hot and not too sunny. It was great that we were all able to meet up together, since it's so hard with everyone's busy schedules. It was also our first time meeting our nephew Luke - what a good baby he is! He was so mellow.

Giggle Fest

Who Needs A Car?

Especially when you have a BOB trailer and the place you're going on your bike to recycle old tires is only 7 blocks away.

Lots 'O Stuff

It's been awhile since I've updated... I'll recap in pictures! Our baby is really no longer a baby. Total toddler. Even her teacher at day care said it today - they may move her up to the toddler room a couple weeks early, she is so ready to be in the next classroom. 15 months old of as Tuesday. Ani has 4 teeth, now takes her own bites of food, is nearly running everywhere instead of walking, and is signing back to us (love this).

Visit with Grandma & Grandpa D

Enjoying a mini cone at Mama's Pizza

Sportin' her 1st real pair of shoes