Stock Racing and Family Olympics

Uncle Spencer owns a stock car that was going to race. Some of the group decided to go and watch. Unfortunately, his car was damaged before some of us got there, so we didn't see his car race but still stayed to watch the other cars.

It was very hot. Thank goodness we had some shade to sit in.

Cars where dropping like flies. This black one broke its axle and was out.

See the tipped car? Its out, too.

Inspired by the Olympics that were going on at the time of the reunion, we decided to hold our own Family Olympics. We had slip and slide...

Relay races . . .

Shot put (more like just throw the ball and try not to hit anyone) . . .

and watch-the-cute 1 1/2 year old run as fast as she could.  Everything was an obstacle for her.

Grandpa B taking some pictures.

We also had an event where the kids were to walk along the balance beam (at the end of the pool) and then do a trick while jumping into the water.  We enjoyed a few candid pics of the youngest kids while awaiting the challengers for the event.

Caden with the carefully balanced walk . . .

and the graceful swan jump into the pool . . .

with a little falter on the landing.

Jordan got a little deduction for a wobble on the beam . . .

but look at that form as she contemplates her trick.  Looks like we may have had an interference from a younger sister . . .

into the air . . .

And she sticks the landing!!!!  Perfect!!!!

Kelcie showing good form . . .

Look at that wonderful tuck . . .

If judging on the splash, she NAILED it!

Kailyn with a fierce competitive look in her eyes . . .

Good form . . .

What?!?!  No splash?  Just a step into the water.  Got her head cut off (in the picture), though!

Some of the judges were not pleased with the efforts on the waterslide and felt they needed to demonstrate proper technique.

Uncle Andrew:

Uncle Russ:

Chase rocking this event!

Grandma B with grandchild number 20

Chase and Becky.  Did we mention that these 2 were adorable together?

A little more zip-lining action

The older girls

For the awards ceremony, the kids got a certificate of completion along with a piece of candy.  They were thrilled!

In closing, we thought we'd show a classic demonstration of our kids' bravery around dogs (actually, pets in general).  When Ava sees or hears a dog, she gets excited and makes some muffled dog-like barks.  But if they ever start walking towards her or even look at her, she loses it.  This has gotten a little better lately, thank goodness.  And lest you think it's only Ava, rest assured that all 5 of our kids have the same reaction.