Race Day for Team Caroline

I was thankful to be able to take part in an extremely special weekend in memory of sweet baby Caroline last weekend while I was in Texas. God specifically worked out all the details for me to be in Texas while Josh was in Argentina. I was able to leave my kids in Muleshoe for a weekend with friends in College Station which was the same time of the Armadillo Dash in which my friend Courtney had chosen this race as a time to have a team to participate in raising funds and walking for Spina Bifida Association in memory of Caroline Grace Ruple. Baby Caroline had Spina Bifida and in December was delivered at 25 weeks while doing an in utero surgery to try to correct her Spina Bifida. She lived only 2 short days on this earth but we know she is now dancing in heaven with a healed body and Jesus next to her side.  Courtney did an excellent job organizing a team of about 80 people that walked or ran for this cause and raised over $5000 for Spina Bifida. It was a memory I will never forget and such an overwhelming experience to be a part of for our life long friends the Ruple's. 

 Part of Team Caroline, but this was taken at 6:30 am and I am sure there were several still stuck in race traffic that did not make it for the picture.

A group of us neared the finish line and realized Courtney was still a little bit behind us. I recalled Courtney sharing with me that she might need some help crossing the finish line. I asked those I was walking with if they would like to go find Courtney and cross with her. We turned around and all joined forces to cross together! 

Cheering as we were crossing the finish line. You could just feel an overwhelming sense of emotions as we crossed the finish line and the announcers said "Team Caroline"

 Jason and Courtney Ruple - Such a neat couple and very special life long friends I am thankful God blessed us with over 5 years ago.

 Sweet friends! Very thankful for our time together this weekend. 

 Not liking this picture, it was early and with race attire. My sweet sister Marlie was a trooper and chose with a little begging to make the long 8 hour drive from Lubbock to College Station with me. I am thankful she did and I think she had some fun too. It was nice to have lots of time to talk and hang out. I love her and am so glad God blessed me with amazing sisters I love to be around!

 Awesome Team Caroline Race signs these sweet Team Caroline kids and Kristin's mom used to cheer us on to the finish line.