"'Our family’s faith is in Jesus Christ and is not dependent on outcomes.' ...We do all that we can for the healing of a loved one, and then we trust in the Lord for the outcome."
- Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Saturday, May 1, 2010

And the race is on

This morning was crazy. McKay and I both participated in "races." McKay's preschool teachers put on a charity race where they let the kids run laps for charity. McKay was so excited about it and he took off running as fast as he could at the end, a friend and VTV owner was asking him questions about the race and he said something like, "I was running super fast and now I am out of breath!" What a cute kid. He was running fast too! He was excited to be able to put money in the bottles for the two charities they were supporting and then wanted to call and tell Papa and Grammy all about it.

I, however, walked (or more like waddled) a 5K race this morning in Memory of Josh (Graham) and in Honor of Josh (Baumgarten). When I found out that my sweet friend Toni was planning on wearing a t-shirt for both her Josh (who lost his battle with cancer last July) and my Josh (who was just diagnosed with cancer), I couldn't help but want to participate. 
       Keep in mind... I am having this baby next Saturday! When I woke up this morning I thought I must  be crazy, but I really wanted to do it for Toni, myself and each of our Josh's. I sincerely believed I would have to turn around and waddle my way shamefully back before I got to the turn around point, but I didn't. I did the whole thing. Even if I was at the end. (But not the VERY end) I didn't care though. The last few minutes, Toni came to find me (I am telling you... I was waddling) and walked with me and my sweet, loyal friends (who stayed with me the whole time) the rest of the way. 

 
Toni and I

These last pictures are of us coming in and I promise there were a few behind us (hahaha, but not many),  Colette and I, and all of "Team Josh"
    I am grateful that I did this, that I had the chance to think about Josh and Toni and their faith and example and for the way their experience has helped my Josh and me. For all the people who have gathered around and rallied to support us. And, for my sweet friends who are constant and steady and always there for me. I love you guys!

12 comments:

Shafferprincess said...

That's incredible, Kristen! Way to go. You and Josh are constantly in my prayers. I wish I lived closer - I'd love to help out with the boys or with the new baby or any way I could.

And, by the way, you look INCREDIBLE at nine months pregnant! :) Seriously. I know you probably don't feel it (I remember that feeling - it wasn't too long ago), but you really do look great.

Mark and Colette said...

FYI- there was 100's of people behind you!! Love ya

Lacy said...

Wow! What an example you are!
You leave me in awe and very humbled! Thank you for being such a great example and I'm sure that you didn't waddle.

Chandra said...

Oh I wish I could have been there to "waddle" with you! Keep up the good work. You can do it!

Candy said...

Way to waddle girl! :)
Wish I was there, I would have done it with you! Good job!

thinking and praying for you....
You can get through this.

Angelina Christina said...

Kristen, I am so sorry. I didn't know about Josh, I haven't been reading your blog because on my side bar it said you hadn't updated for 7 months...I guess that's wrong. Is there ANYTHING we can do??? You are both in our prayers, our hearts go out to you. You are so incredible and strong, I admire you so much. I know the Lord loves you and will sustain you both through this. Please, please call if we can do anything!!! Seriously.

Love John & Angelina

Heather said...

Go you!

Chad and Gwen said...

I just heard too!, My grandparents told me about it because we were talking about the stake getting a new presidency, I am so sorry and we will be praying for you too. I hope everything goes smoothly with your delivery. I can't wait to see pictures.

LaFawnda said...

Way to go momma. Honestly, walking a 5K a week before delivery. This IS a journal entry. You can mark it down like the pioneer women on the trek west. Holy macarel!!!

Kandice said...

What an awesome thing to do! I am so excited for the upcoming arrival of your sweet baby girl. How exciting is that. I hope this week goes smoothly for you, and you are able to have a very special week together as a family. :)

Kristi said...

Kristen you AMAZE me! You are constantly in my thoughts. I agree with Lacy, you look beautiful, I can't believe you are having a baby in a week. Congratulations on finishing!

Mindy and Larry said...

Way to waddle! I love the picture of you and Toni! I can tell that you guys have very close ties! How blessed you are to have her! And btw- McKay has got to be the most handsome boy! I hope we can see you all one day!