Adventure Race

It has been a CRAZY last couple weeks, so I apologize for the lack of blog updates. However, you don't have to wait any longer because we have got LOTS to share! But we'll take it a day at a time.

As I sit here typing I feel incredibly sore, my legs look like a cat molested them, and I am still trying to re-hydrate. BUT -- I also sit here a 2nd place finisher in the 4-6 hour Natchez Trace Adventure Race!!! That's right! My buddy Luke Schlup and I completed a challenging race that included trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, and orienteering. We were SHOCKED to learn that we placed 2nd overall for the 4-6 hour race. Our finishing time was 5:55. Just 5 minutes short of the cut-off. The 1st place team -- 5:26. And we were among only three 2-man teams to finish the race within the 6hr time limit.

To say the race was tough is an understatement! For those who are wondering, "What's an adventure race??" -- allow me to walk you through our experience.

The race begins when we are given a packet of instructions by which we are to complete the race. Our first task was to tie ourselves together with a rope and proceed to a fire tower where we were given a map with 14 checkpoints. We were instructed to "capture" the first several checkpoints on foot, so we proceeded to follow county roads, fire roads, and trails as we tracked down the various checkpoints. However, not all the checkpoints are found in obvious, easy to access places, so to reach many of the checkpoints we had to bushwhack our way through the woods and dense brush.

Upon capturing the first set of checkpoints, we were instructed to hop on our bikes with the necessary gear for the canoeing section and capture the next set of checkpoints along a mountain bike trail. This is the section we both looked forward to the most because we know that biking is our strongest event. Unfortunately, we got off to a rough start as the trail was "single track" (meaning only wide enough for one bike at a time). This made it difficult to pass people. Plus the trail was covered in dried pine straw which made it extremely slick and difficult to maintain solid traction. However, we were able to pull away from the "pack" and get into our rhythm before too long.

The next section was paddling. There were 4 checkpoints we had to capture and were positioned at various points on the lake. We opted start out paddling into the wind with the hope that we'd have the help of the wind as we became more fatigued capturing the final paddling checkpoints. This strategy seemed to pay off.

**I do feel that I need to mention that it was at this point that we both ran out of water... This was NOT an exciting discovery for either of us. We had sucked our camelbacks dry, and would have to suffer on until the end.**

We had to make our toughest strategic decision during the paddling section. We struggled to find the final paddling checkpoint. We knew there was one more checkpoint we'd have to get as we biked back to the finish, but knew we didn't have time to get both. We opted to look a bit longer for the final paddling checkpoint since we were already in close proximity to it. This decision turned out to be the difference between finishing the race in under 6hrs and qualifying for the 2nd place award, and being disqualified for not finishing within the allotted time.

So we found the final paddling checkpoint and hustled back to our bikes for the final ride to the finish. This ride was MISERABLE! We both thought we were about to die. We were dehydrated, tired, and our legs were cramping, but we knew that we had to keep peddling. We were at that point where everything just seems to move slower and you start to kind of fade between coherency and stupor. All I could think about was the Gatorade waiting for me at the finish. All Luke could think about was the PB&J sandwich waiting for him at the finish.

But finish we did!! And as we sat, completely exhausted and totally spent waiting for everyone to finish and the results to be announced, we realized that we had actually done really well! And when we realized that we'd place 2nd overall -- we were pumped!! Our efforts were not in vain! Our blood was shed for a purpose! And our teamwork and determination had paid off!!

Here's some pics from the day:

Getting geared up and tied together as we started the race.

This was a bonus challenge they added to keep us on our toes

Plotting our course and strategizing

About to embark on the bike/paddling section

Here we are totally wiped out, coming up the final stretch to the finish

We finished!!

The carnage from all the bushwhacking

Exhausted and trying to rehydrate and eat some food

Our plaque and beach towels :-)

Overall, it was a very difficult and challenging race!! But it was tons of fun!! We'll see if there's a next year... kinda thinking there will be :-)

But until later, we're just the Joneses trying to keep up.

Wheel of Fortune. Really?!?

Sorry for the lame title… as hard as I tried, I could not come up with anything witty or clever – I hope you will be forgiving! (If you can think of something better after reading this post, let me know and perhaps I will make YOUR idea the title!!)

Let me start with the following disclaimer: Ashley has given complete approval for what I am about to write. In fact, we shared a wonderful laugh together last night while talking about it.

So here goes… Little did I know that Ashley, with baby on board, would suddenly have the habits and interests of a 75 year old woman. Please notice that I did not say she turned into a 75 year old woman, and she DEFINITELY does not look like a 75 year old woman! She looks as cute and sexy as ever! But she has begun to exhibit a few traits that I tend to associate with most elderly women: very little bladder control, is ready for bed around 7pm, and LOVES her some Wheel of Fortune. The first two are easily excused as common symptoms of pregnancy (or geriatrics), but the sudden interest in Wheel of Fortune can definitely not be chalked up the normal pregnancy side-effects (although “normal” and “pregnancy” are probably two words that should NEVER be used together).

So last night as we sat on the couch eating dinner (at 6:30 mind you) watching Wheel of Fortune, we both began to laugh as Ashley commented: “Wow! I never realized that being pregnant would cause me to act like a grandma… I mean, why do I love Wheel of Fortune so much!? And I’m ready for bed at like 7!?”

I think I can handle a daily dose of Pat Sajak and Vanna White for the next several months. And going to bed early has definitely helped me wake rested and ready for the new day. And as long as I’m not “on the pot” when Ashley needs to go, I think we’ll be okay. But if by chance Ashley develops the need for some Alex Trebek (Jeopardy) in her life, I will know that we have officially “crossed over” and all hope will be lost… we can even skip the “Cool Parent” try-outs later this spring because that ship will have sailed!

For your viewing pleasure. I can get on board with this kind of Jeopardy :-)

So until next time,  we’re just the J_ne_e_ Tr_i_g T_ Kee_ U_!

A Year in Review

As I celebrate my 24th birthday today, I thought I'd take a moment to look back on the 24th year of my life. It has been a year filled with adventure and excitement, ups and down, laughs and tears -- yet all of this has shaped what has likely been the most memorable year of my life thus far. So join me as I rewind to March 6, 2010.

A year ago today I was here:

I was blessed with the opportunity to take the trip of a lifetime to hike the Grand Canyon with some close friends. It was a rugged, yet beautiful adventure!! It is impossible to deny God's creativity, power, and grandeur when you are standing in it!!

Next, Nashville was hit with an epic flood. Our home was spared, but many of our neighbors and close friends were directly affected, and 1000s of people lost their homes. However, it was incredible to see Nashville overcome a dismal situation and "rise up" as one community.

 

The summer brought many great trips to the lake with the in-laws and a wonderful trip to Kiawah Island, SC with my folks.

As fall rolled around, Ashley and I headed to San Antonio, TX where Ashley completed her first full marathon!! I was her photographer :-)

As 2010 came to a close, Ashley and I received some of best news of our lives -- we were going to have a baby!! Thus began our biggest adventure yet!!

 

As 2011 kicked off, I joined a church in Pearl, MS on a mission trip to Honduras. God blessed me with an opportunity to be His hands and feet to a village of people with next to nothing, many of who found everything in Christ!! It was amazing to serve alongside my brothers and sisters in Christ - most of whom I'd never met prior to the trip, but now share a unique bond.

And as my 24th year comes to a close, Ashley and I spent a wonderful weekend away at the Whitestone Inn in Kingston, TN. It was such a welcome weekend away with the love of my life!! The Inn was amazing and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for a Bed & Breakfast with excellent service, delicious cooking, lots of recreational options and comfortable rooms.

 

So as I begin year #25, I look forward to what God has in store for Ashley and me! It's sure to be a year filled with many more adventures and challenges, but I know that there will be much for which we will be thankful!

Until next time, we're just the Joneses trying to keep up! :-)

Boundaries, People, Boundaries!

Hello there! I (Ashley) am happy to be making my debut blog post! Sorry it's taken me so long to write a post, but Oliver has just been doing such a great job. :)

So I am already seeing how you get treated a bit differently when you are pregnant. Some of these differences have been great... free ice cream at our favorite ice cream shop, more compassion for not feeling well, being able to move to the front of the bathroom line, etc. However, some people seem to think that me being pregnant means that all personal boundaries get thrown out the window. Here are a few examples of some serious boundary issues that I've experienced in the past several weeks:

-Someone telling me that I couldn't eat a brownie because it wasn't "good for the baby." I ate it anyways.
-Multiple people (and not close friends or family) making comments about my changing body -- i.e. "Wow, Ash! Your ______s are looking huge today!"
-Someone telling me that they thought that I was starving the baby because they hadn't seen me eating very many snacks. Mostly creepy that she had been watching so closely.
-And lastly, people have already been trying to touch my belly... which is pretty much non-existent. Here is a picture of me at 15 weeks:

 
These comments are definitely teaching me about speaking up for myself and learning to not take things so personally. And despite these few comments, most of our family, friends and coworkers have been SOOO supportive and wonderful. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support for us and this little one!!

Consignment Crazed

It is that time of year in Nashville, TN -- baby consignment sales are all over the place. And while we were initially skeptical about these sales, the amazing deals we've discovered have turned us into huge proponents of consigning!! So while we still have several months before the baby arrives, we have officially begun to prepare for his/her arrival.

Today we hit up three local sales. Each very unique. The first was held in a church gymnasium. When we pulled up there were only a few cars in the parking lot, so we began to doubt the quality of goods we'd find inside... And despite the dimly lit, musty gymnasium we found our best deals/purchases of the day! Plus it was the last day of the sale and nearly everything was 50% off!! Check out what we found:

We found this great Fisher Price swing in
"like new" condition
Purchase Price: $25

This is my awesomely masculine Eddie Bauer diaper bag
Purchase Price: $10

Ashley found this cute, gender-nuetral-ish sling style baby carrier
Purchase Price: $7.50

So our total cost of fun new baby things today was $42.50! Not too shabby!

The second sale we checked out was one that we shopped last Sunday on Day #1 of the sale. It was in a very large empty warehouse and had all sorts of items for sale. The quality of the products at this sale were more hit-or-miss, but Ashley did find some crib bedding that she absolutely loved! However, it was priced at $150 which we felt was a bit high (although it was custom made and very high quality). But after waffling over a decision, we concluded that we'd return on the 50% off day (which was today) and if the bedding was still for sale, we'd snatch it up. Much to our dismay, we later realized while examining a photo of the bedding that it was marked "ND" or "No Discount." This was a very sad moment for Ash! And after much more discussion and debate we chose to return to the sale to see if the bedding was still around. A big part of us hoped it would have been purchased already to help make our decision much simpler... no such luck!! The bedding was still there. But after more consideration we decided to move on and hope for bedding that we both loved as much as Ash loved this set.

The final sale we visited today was more along the lines of with what we are looking for. The items appear to be in great condition. There are more cute brands we like (GAP Baby, Osh Kosh, Pottery Barn, etc). The items are displayed well and the location is moderate in size making it easier to navigate. All that to say, we found several other items we really liked. However, their 50% off sale is Sunday, so we shall be returning after church to browse through what remains and may have some more fun, new baby purchases to share tomorrow!

So stay posted! And until then, we're just the Joneses trying to keep up!

The Great Debate

With Ashley getting back in town Saturday evening, I've had little time to compile a new post. But after an eventful Sunday, there are several exciting updates to share with you!

First, we attended our first children's consignment sale yesterday! It was a teeny bit overwhelming, but helped us realize we need to make a much stronger game plan before attacking a sale like that again. We basically have no idea what the fair price is for many of the items we browsed through yesterday. So our new game plan... go to Target with a list of all the major items we believe we'll need to purchase and take note of the prices for the various items. That way, when we venture into another warehouse full of baby things, we'll have a much better idea of what a crib/car seat/stroller/etc. should cost.

However, we were thrilled to make two great purchases yesterday: super cute maternity jean capris for Ash and our first set of onesies for our little one!! Check out the onesies below:

The second piece of exciting news from yesterday -- we are now engaged in the GREAT DEBATE. What might you ask is this great debate concerning? Well that is a great question. We are currently in a stalemate over determining the gender of our baby!

This is something that we both knew would be an issue, but the battle came to the forefront of conversation yesterday as we perused baby things. Ashley's preference is to wait till the birth to find out the gender. My choice is to go ahead and find out at our 18-20 week ultrasound visit. And at this point, neither one of us is wavering on our stance.

Is there a right or wrong answer? Unfortunately, no. If there was, this would likely be a much easier decision. However, there are certainly Pros and Cons to each. Here's an overview of each argument:

Oliver - Pros and Cons of finding out early

Pros:
1) We get to talk about the baby as he or she instead of it/baby/peanut/tinker/etc.
2) We can buy gender specific clothes/toys/etc.
3) We can prepare for boy or girl vs preparing for both
4) The option is available so why not??

Cons:
1) It ruins the surprise
2) We are going to happy with either a boy or girl, so what's the need to find out early

Ashley - Pros and Cons for being surprised at birth

Pros:
1) It is how Ashley has always envisioned it -- something special about the doctor holding the baby up saying, "It's a boy/girl" and something very special about me (Oliver) going to our family/friends in the waiting room to tell them "It's a boy/girl"
2) It gives extra incentive to push the baby out
3) It will prevent anyone from expressing disappointment with the gender - how can you be disappointed with a precious newborn in your arms?
4) What a fun surprise
5) We will likely choose neutral baby things anyway so we won't have to buy new stuff everytime we have a kid, so knowing boy/girl won't really be that important in prepping for baby

Cons:
1) It will ruin the surprise
2) People will be too inclined to share their opinions on raising a boy/girl

So, as I look over this list I realize that Ashley likely has a much stronger argument... shoot! Well like I said before, there's no right or wrong answer to this debate... I guess that's what makes it such a tough call.

What do you think? Have you had to make this decision before? How did you decide?

Until next time, we're just the Joneses trying to keep up!

Lay Your Life Down

I am flying solo for the next couple days. Ashley is in Athens, GA, for Dietitian's conference with work. I absolutely hate when Ashley is not at home! I miss her so so so so so much!!! And I'm constantly reminded of all the amazing things I love so much about Ash!! The only positive is that it makes her return that much more special!!

Tonight I'm reminded of the prayer my parents taught me as a child: "Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord, my soul to keep. And if I die before I wake, I pray the lord my soul to take." Such simple words, yet such profound meaning!

So what brought this prayer to mind? Well, there are two things that made me think of laying one's life down...

First, with Ashley out of the house, I'm able to catch up on "The Pacific", HBO's miniseries documenting the endeavors of a group of Marines during WWII in the Pacific theater. I finished watching the final two episodes of the miniseries tonight, and I was touched by the vivid reminder of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make for us every day! Throughout the miniseries, there have been many examples of one man laying down his life for the other. It's impossible not to see the imagery of Christ's sacrifice for us!! The greatest sacrifice EVER!!

Second, there is a song that Ashley introduced to me that I have quickly come to love -- "Dancing in the Minefields" by Andrew Peterson. There is a line in the song that goes as follows: "Cause the only way to find your life is to lay your own life down. And I believe it’s an easy price for the life that we have found." What a great reminder to us all that we have been redeemed by a God who loves us enough to send His only son to die for us, that we may live!!!


Check out the video for the song below:

Until next time, we're just the Joneses trying to keep up!