Communal and Provo Marathon

For Nate's birthday brunch (since his birthday is on Monday, we decided to go Saturday), he chose to go to 'Communal', a fancy/hip downtown restaurant in provo - across the street from the newly under construction South Provo Temple. It was a fun experience, especially since the Provo City Marathon was underway. When we got there, runners were coming in at 3 1/2 hours. When we left they were coming in at about 4 1/2 hours. Since Provo city was my first marathon, it brought back a flood of poignant memories. I admit I teared up a little seeing the runners come in. One scene especially was tender for me - an older man running with his arms around a young man and woman sort of helping him finish the race. It reminded me of when my Mom ran a marathon in her mid fifties (while I was in the Netherlands studying the violin). My sisters had arranged for family members to be runners with her at the end of the race to help her finish. Running a marathon is like going through life - exhilarating, exciting, exhausting, and very fulfilling. It is easiest when you run with friends and strong supporters along the way. Mason clapped and cheered along with the rest of us, as runners went by. It was a super sweet coincidence for me. I'm SO grateful for the people who run with me and cheer me on through my life!

french toast with rhubarb

Nate's steak sandwich

finish line of the Provo City Marathon

Mason cheering on the runners

We were lucky to have J-Dogs on the same day with Nate's great Aunt and Uncle on the Freeman side, Greg and Tony. We were fortunate to visit them in their home in Washington last year on our vacation. They were unbelievably kind and hospitable, so we wanted to take them out to a fun hot dog place (since Tony loves hot dogs) on their way to St George. It was fun to surprise them by having Nate's family show up, including Jason and Ashley who had just arrived the night before from NY. When we came home, our good friends Greg and Shauna (and their two beautiful girls) met us, and we were able to spend some time together before their big move to Houston. We are going to miss them! Later that evening we had a fun dinner and birthday celebration for Nate and his little brother Jordan at the Freeman's cabin in Hobble Creek. It was a full and wonderful day spent with family and friends!