WHAT IS A RAGNAR RELAY ANYWAY?

Ragnar was a 9th century Norse King. He was a pirate, a raider, a conqueror, an explorer, and a wild man. The tough, fearless, rugged attributes of this Norse King are shared by all who participate in a Ragnar Relay. In much the same way, a Ragnar Relay provides runners the freedom to roam, to explore - a free-spirited curiosity to get out there and experience outdoor adventure. And maybe even to conquer. And though tough or rugged may not perfectly describe you, these attributes become a goal - something to strive for.

In a Ragnar Relay the wild nature of this Norse King is embraced by many participants. Participants who aren't afraid to paint their van plaid, to bring along their own hair band, to join together in yelling as they cross the finish line. You may think that you are not one of them, but you are. Everyone has a wild side and nothing brings it out of you like a Ragnar Relay.

Long live the Ragnar in us all

This is what I'm doing this weekend. Just me and 12 of my friends/sisters/cousins divided into 2 vans to relay 202 miles. Does that sound like fun or what?

VALENTINE'S DAY

Every year for Valentine's Day, my thoughtful husband

gives me a boquet of roses. So sweet, I know, and I'm sure

many of you receive the same or similar gifts. Now, I

don't mean to seem ungrateful or snobbish, but this year

I'm taking issue with the florists in our lovely Mexico.

You see, they tend to make their flower arrangements

look like they're going to a memorial service, i.e. the picture below.

So this year I removed the beautiful dozen red roses and put them in my own vase.

Much better I think.

i love these two girls. they make my day.

and he's so handsome. happy valentine's day to my wonderful husband.

The Birthday Party

Mercedes turned 5 yesterday and had herself a PARTY!

It was fun to have all her friends here to

celebrate and play.

Here are a few pictures (in the wrong order of course and i don't know how to fix it)

of all the festivities.

Her exact words were "THIS IS THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER MOMMY!"

opening the presents.

blowing out the candles

busting the pinata

jumping on the tramp (why did i spend money on the "brinka brinka"?

morning birthday pancake with a candle (her request)

It really was a great day. We love our sweet Mercedes, and we're so glad she's five!

To My First Born

Dear Mercedes,

Five years ago I met you face to face, though I'm sure we knew each other for eternities before. I'd never known a love like that existed. I thank our Heavenly Father everyday for sending you to me. You are the sunshine of my everyday. I love you and I hope that you have a very wonderful and funtastic FIFTH BIRTHDAY!

Love, Mommy