Go Spartans!

We spent the weekend in Saltillo, MS with Russ's brother and his family. Roan, my sister-in-law, homeschools her five children and does a fabulous job! They have taken up a family sport - running. In fact, the three oldest children have joined a homeschool cross country team - the Spartans. They spend their weekends running in 5K's and competing in cross country meets. They always do fantastic! I have never been to a cross country meet before, so I was dying to go see them compete. We decided to go north for the weekend and watch them run in New Albany on Saturday.

So, the first thing I learned about cross country is that it begins EARLY in the morning. Which, if you know me, you know that mornings have been difficult for me in the past! Ha! We left Saltillo around 7:30 am headed for New Albany. Cross country meets look a little like tailgating. Every team had a tent and chairs set up. All the parents and visitors hang out while waiting for the events to begin. Jimmy had made a sign for the Spartan tent, and it looked great! But, I didn't even get a picture of it! Sorry, Jimmy! :)

Julie, Olivia, and some friends warming up

Roan, me, and Sam waiting for the meet to begin
(Notice Sam holding on to Roan's hair - his security blanket. So cute!)

The cutest shoes I've ever seen!! Tow-Mater!
Sam loves the movie Cars.

Jimmy and Roan showing their Spartan spirit

The girls JV started the meet with a 4k run. JV consists of grades 7-9. Julie is actually a 6th grader, but was allowed to compete for the first time! She was so excited!

Julie was the first girl to come toward the finish line! There was no one in sight behind or around her! It was amazing! Way to go Julie!

Olivia was the second girl to come to the finish line. Again, no one in sight behind or around her! Wow!

They looked like they were in a completely different race! I was amazed! When they came close to the finish line - the homeschoolers had to peel off right before crossing the finish line - they looked like they could have run the course again! Most of the girls that crossed were throwing up or looked like they were dying.

After the girls JV, it was time for the boys JV. Again, this was grades 7-9. Clay, who is currently a 4th grader, was allowed to compete in this race also.

Clay was the first Spartan to come to the finish line...17th overall out of over 100 runners!
FOURTH GRADE, remember! He was only 10 seconds behind Olivia's time! Super job, Clay! Notice Roan cheering him on!

Clay, Olivia, and Julie after the race

Leah and I were glad to be watching and not running! Ha!

Russ's dad was able to come down

After the race, we packed up and headed to Atlanta Bread Company to eat - SO GOOD! Then, we spent the afternoon at Jimmy and Roan's hanging out. After pretty much everyone took a nap, Russ helped Jimmy mow their massive yard, Roan ran 4 miles (she is training for a half-marathon), and the kids and I played in the sandbox.

Leah making a "cake" in the sand

The "Little Digger" having fun

After mowing, Clay showed Russ some of the trails in their woods.

Sam wants to ride too!

We had a great time! Thanks so much, Jimmy and Roan! I'm sure Roan will post everyone's times on her blog. So, check it out if you have time.