First Race

My parents took the kids the weekend we closed and moved into our new house. My Dad had a race on Sunday, and when they arrived Julia decided she wanted to run the half-mile version.  It wasn't planned. For those close to the situation it's obvious from the pictures, since she is wearing her pajamas! My parents registered Julia and she ran the entire distance by herself. She's definitely trying more and more things as she grows in confidence and independence.

Once Jonathan saw his sister participating he wanted a piece of the action too.  My Mom and he planned on walking it together, but his competitive side kicked in. Check out the concentration on his face. Since the half-mile race was held before the main race, there was a crowd watching. When Jonathan turned the corner and saw grandpa at the finish line, he took off sprinting to the roar of the crowd.  He was the star of the show.

Julia had the idea to make signs to cheer grandpa on. Because of the running and sign making, grandpa and both kids got their own article in the local paper. It was really cool to see both kids participating in an event like this, especially considering their history with shyness and medical issues.