Inks Lake State Park Camp-out

Last weekend started on Friday afternoon with a beautiful day at the lake....camper, sunny skies, calm water, and Frankie's chicken and dumplings! Saturday brought more fun, good friends, and anticipation of the Burnet Tri-Hard Challenge Triathlon on Sunday morning. We paddle-boated, swam a small portion of the race route, and regrettably, we drove the ride route to size up the hills. (Ignorance is truly bliss in this case as the hills were abundant) There were four of us "participating" in this event, and even Lauren made up her very own triathlon on Saturday. She jumped in the lake, swam around, got out, jumped on her bike (with helmet, of course), rode around the camping area, then sprinted around the loop like a mad woman. Then, she looked at me and stated that "It wasn't bad, Mom. You can do it." She always has a way to make us giggle!

My cousin, Eric, and his wife, Cara (most dear friend of mine) and their two kiddos joined us, as well as Cara's Mom and Dad. Her Dad, Roger, was the celebrity of the group with a first place age-group win!!! What a way to spend his 70th birthday!!! Our friends Will and Shelley Hale joined us for Will's first triathlon. I believe he survived, but was incredibly happy to be out of the water!! Cara showed-off her new swim moves she picked up from a few recent swim lessons, and came across the finish line all sweat and smiles! My good 'ol friend Gina "roughed it" with us in the camper as well, and was a GREAT spectator. All of us who participated in the event felt like we had a fan club! YEA, we have GROUPIES!!!