Spider-Man in a pumpkin hat

Tristen and I have done the Pumpkin Push four years in a row. This year Tristen actually ran about a mile of the race -- in three or four spurts. We were slow -- especially with my left hip still bothering me and with Tristen getting in and out of the stroller several times. But we made it and had fun.

Check Tristen out crossing the finish line. (We were holding hands, but Fotojack folks went for Tristen only.)

My favorite moment during the race was when we passed two grim reapers who started singing the Spider-Man theme song -- but they replaced the second "Spider-Man" with "in a pumpkin hat." Very fun!

P.S. Link to last year's race.

Alyssum and Christian

Alyssum and boyfriend Christian stopped in for a night last month. It was great to see this fabulous duo -- both getting ready to embark on separate but exciting adventures. We hope the winds blow them back our way again soon!

So fast

Me: Tristen, you're growing up so fast. Can't you cut that out? Slow it down?

Tristen: Mommy, I don't know how.

Spidey has been working out

First frame

My grandparents belonged to a church that had a bowling alley in the basement. My father bowled on a league for decades. Of our generation, brother Bo's family carries on the tradition in Alton, demonstrating the Marshall bowling prowess weekly at the local lanes. Now it looks like there's hope for the Seattle Marshalls, too.

So great that the Odegards (not pictured: brand new baby Sam!), Darren, and Amy came out to join. We were celebrating Chris's birthday.