Arizona Teas

On Saturday, I sent Joel and Isaac out on an errand. I think they were both glad to get out of the house while I was buzzing around doing some cleaning (not to mention an excuse for Joel to get his morning coffee at C-bou). Anyhow, I always chuckle when Joel comes home with items that "weren't on the list" and to see what he was interested in - most of the time, things I wouldn't probably have picked up. This time it was several large cans of flavored Arizona teas - he proudly exclaimed, "they were on sale!" We've been enjoying them since Saturday - Isaac even tasted his first "Arnold Palmer" yesterday. Judging from the reaction to follow, I'd say it was a hit. Thanks, Papa!

Grandma's Marathon Weekend

This past weekend we celebrated the 34th Annual Grandma's Marathon. To commemorate the experience, Joel ran the full marathon that he has been training for since last September. The weather was almost ideal - 60's, partly cloudy but windy. The head wind slowed many runners down during a certain stretch of the race. All things considered, Joel is very pleased with his performance and his final time: 4:13 (more than an hour less than his last marathon in 2006 at 5:22). Each time I saw Joel during the race (4 stops plus the finish line), he looked great and was feeling good throughout the race. Here are some photos and videos taken of Joel throughout the race:

http://picasaweb.google.com/pastortwj/GrandmasMarathonJoel

For now, we're all grateful for a few days "off" from running while Joel recovers, and as far as next year's race...well, it's too soon to tell whether or not I'll be back on the sidelines cheering Joel on.

Family Celebrations

Hi Everyone! It's been a busy few weeks up here for the Johnson's:

Weekend of May 31st/Memorial Day Weekend: Joel and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary by taking a 24-hour local getaway (without Isaac). It was a great time to get away, enjoy a pace other than that of a very busy 2-year old, and to reflect on our relationship. We stayed local and are still able to feel as if we're vacationing in the surrounding area of Duluth given all that it has to offer. Here is a photo taken on our anniversary.

Weekend of June 5th: Combined birthday party for Isaac and his 2 cousins (Olivia, 3 and Aspen, 5). Check out some picture highlights:

http://picasaweb.google.com/joeltjohnson/June2010

We've some fun times already this summer and are looking forward to many more!