Pat's Run 2017

This past weekend Justin and I ran in the 13th annual Pat's Run benefitting the Pat Tillman Foundation. It was my 9th time running this race. Crazy! I never sought out to run it this many times but it just kind of happened and now I am committed. My mom came over early Saturday morning to watch the girls while they were still sleeping so we could head out to the race. I ran really well last year and I knew I was not going to be able to run that again but I still went out and did okay. A couple of my co workers also ran along with Justin's brother. Justin stayed back with me the whole run and I thought it would help but I actually think it was worse because I just complained to him the whole time about it being hot and the hills being so hard! It was not even close to my best time but it was also not close to my worst time either. Hopefully next year I am in a bit better running shape. They also changed up a few things for this year's run. For the first time ever, the route was reversed. That was weird. Also, they started a medal series so we got the 1st of 4 medals over the next 4 years. That was kind of cool because I have always wanted to do a medal series. This year they also introduced a beer garden after the race. I know it sounds weird to have a beer at 8 AM but it's free! That was fun. We got lots of fun swag at the expo after the run and then headed home to see the girls. All in all, it was another good year out at Pat's Run. See you next year!

There were 28,000 runners!

Me and one of my co workers in her first race!

Representing the Governor's Office

The start line and the finish!

pooped!

Post-Race Jamba and beers!

So proud of Jared for knocking out his first race, too!

Three Larkins!

See you next year!

Mid-Week Fun

So normally we are pretty boring during the week and stick with our routines of work, school/day care, and home but this week we mixed it up a little. We typically eat dinner at home Mon-Fri unless something big is going on and this week we decided to take advantage of National Pancake Day and had dinner at IHOP with my mom and sisters because you could get a free short stack of pancakes. It was busy but we only had to wait like 20 minutes for a part of 11. I love pancakes and don't have them very often so I was happy. Everly and Ted like the different flavor syrups that IHOP has so they were happy when they weren't fighting over who got to sit next to Grandma. Cam devoured some scrambled eggs Aspen didn't eat a ton of her pancakes but was more than happy to help herself to Aunty Kimmy's pancakes...haha. Girl knows not to touch my plate. They didn't give Mae any pancakes but I bet you that little chunk would have loved some. It was a fun night.

Typically during the week I also bring my lunch to work and eat in my office every day. Even if I run a quick errand to the bank or to get gas, I still usually eat the lunch that I brought which is typically leftovers. Yesterday, however, was the first day of the TOMS warehouse sale in Tempe. I have been twice before and love getting the tiny toms for the girls so I planned to eat my lunch in the car and make a quick trip on my lunch break. The warehouse is right by my mom's work so she met me there. I got some neutral colors for Everly and Aspen to grow into and I found a pair of wedges for me. I have one other pair of their strappy wedges and I love them so I was happy to find another pair. I also got Justin a pair with laces and he is already wearing them today. It really is kind of a crazy shopping experience but I know what to expect and I enjoy it. I hope they have this sale here every year!

Also, for reference, the TOMS vary in pricing. Two years ago it was really cheap but has gone up a little. It is the same prices as last year. The wedges are most expensive (besides sunglasses and bags) at $35 but are marked on their website at $69-$119 so still a really good deal. The mens shoes are $12 and $19 with laces. Justin's pair are originally $69. All kids are $15. This is also better than Zulily sales if you ever see those because no shipping!

Gotta love those snapchat filters.

oh Aspen

so much tude

Waited in line to enter for about 10 minutes and then less than that to pay. Excited about those red wedges.

I know it looks crazy.

cute pair my mom bought Aspen.

The pair I bought for Justin.