Havasu Half and London Bridge

Have you ever been to Lake Havasu? Did you know that the London Bridge sits there in Arizona? We spent a week singing about the bridge falling down and then spent last weekend walking back and forth across it.

My energetic running friend told me about the race she was doing, so I decided to give it a try too. It was a half marathon of wind and rolling hills I’ll never forget. Thanks Kerry!!!

We packed.

Had a close call.

And saw a golden carriage.

Finish line photos. It was pretty great to have my entire family at the finish line. Masie grabbed my hand and all the others yelled and screamed “HI MOM!” I finished with a time of 1:45:21. My best yet. I’ve been dealing with foot problems, but it didn’t bother me on this run.

After the race, we quickly walked back to our hotel to beat the rain and have lunch. The kids were at the end of their rope by that time since they’d waited so long in the wind for me to finally cross the finish line.

Not sure why I was the only one that couldn’t take a nap. My heart was still racing.

The girls patiently (hahaha) waiting for the boys to wake so we can play.

Luke really needed the rest. Taking care of our crew is a load of work. I’m so grateful for his loving support so I can pursue my hobbies.

The weather cleared a little in the afternoon, so we set out exploring the area.

The highlight of Masie’s entire weekend was seeing a huge river rat swim through the water towards and under us as it returned to its home in the sewers. Never have I seen a rodent that big. Masie hasn’t stopped talking about rats since.

Oh, then there was the dead fish with missing eyeballs. Masie still doesn’t believe it was a fish. She’s sure it’s a seal.

Lars’s trucks went with us everywhere.

Miles was very excited to get on a boat, so we took the ferry to and from the casino on the other shore. The 22 minute ride over was great fun, but he was impatient to get off on the 22 minutes back.

I told Lyla, “This time keep your eyes open.” And got this.

The kids trying to get out of the wind. I think they’re smokin’ hot!

Sunday was bright and warmer and we spent the morning exploring some more. Each of my dearest children had to have a stick. They fought over the biggest stick and traded it back and forth.

Then Masie found this one. I think she won.

My favorite shot of the whole trip. “Brrrrr!” She says.

Then, “can I swim?” We’d set out walking right after breakfast without stopping back in our room. No swim suits or even my camera. I’m glad the girls are still young enough to enjoy themselves in their panties without too many odd looks from strangers. My cell phone captured much of their fun.

Rascal Lars started throwing wet sand at me, so I splashed him with water. Throw sand, splash water, throw sand…. He is a big tease.

Then he gets me back even more because I’m expected to hold him after he’s all wet.

This fun remote control car track was behind us when we played on the beach. We all thought it was super cool seeing the little cars race and jump.

I was able to to elevate my sore feet for the 3 hour trek home thanks to these sweet sleepers.