"Take your mark, swimmers!"

Is a phrase we have grown familiar with over the last four seasons. Each summer we have had two or three of the kids swim, but this year, six, 6, yes, VI of our crew suited up and joined the team! I'm not going to say all were thrilled in the beginning, but once a few ribbons were awarded, the purpose was clear in their eyes... which sibling was the fastest?

There is nothing like the competitive spirit between brothers and sisters.




Brayden was a green pea this year. Here, he is waiting for his turn in the first relay.



And he finished!



But did he place?



Collin, also new to the team, has loved it! Sometimes we find him awake at 7:00am ready to go. Unfortunately his practice doesn't begin until 9:00am.




Freestyle relay was his first event at the meet. You might wonder about the numbers written in Sharpie on his arm... his days events. Don't worry though, Heloise said the ink comes right off with a smear of sunscreen and a dry towel.




Collin feeing a bit confidant after his race.




Grandma rocks! She watched all her grandchildren. In the sun. For 5 1/2 hours.



And, we had a surprise show of support from Cousin Matt who is in the Navy and sailed around the world just to make it to the meet.




Brooke can't believe she is part of such a dedicated family... see the amazement?



So she gave the backstroke her all to make it worthwhile.



Matt approved.



Then, Cousin Ryan showed up just in time to pose for a family photo (that I will later crop and sell to Abercrombie) and watch Maren swim.




So she swam her heart out.



And then hurried back to visit some more.



Anna spectated this year because she spent her days teaching swimming instead of training.




She also captured a few floral shots in the meantime between events.



And her friend Taylor came to cheer on the team too.



Gib, waiting at the ready bench, loves it when I call his name and snap his sunkissed face. Can't you tell?



How 'bout those arms?

And then there was little Ryan, after hours of watching, munching, taking dips in the baby pool and playing some serious wall ball, his only question was,



"Is it time to go home yet?"

Thanks again to Grandma, Ryan, Matt and Taylor for coming out last night. The evening wouldn't have been the same without you. Ya'll are the best!


Where was Blake you ask? He was at baseball practice to prepare for his big tournament this coming weekend. He'll be back next week though so get ready.