miles for marjorie

We got up early to see Mary off at the starting line.

This past weekend, we had the opportunity to support our friend, Mary, along with countless other friends, who ran in the Cape Cod Half Marathon in memory of Mary's sweet little daughter, Marjorie.  Marjorie passed away in January, and not a moment has passed that we haven't kept her in our hearts and memories.  Mary, her husband Derek, and their little boy, Teddy, have shared their tender and heartbreaking journey of grief and healing with so many of us this year that it was an extremely touching experience to support and cheer for those running 13.1 miles for Marjorie.  I have never had the opportunity to stand on the sidelines with signs, and it brought tears to my eyes spotting Mary as she approached and then crossed the finish line.  

We rented a house with the Staples and some other friends for the weekend, and we treasured our time together there.  There were 10 adults and 9 children ages 3 years old and under so it was definitely cozy and even a little hectic at times, but the kids loved playing together as much as the adults loved chatting and visiting.  The race took place in Falmouth so it was also fun to explore the town.  

Hunter reading his favorite--Eric Carle--at our rental house.

Falmouth is ready for Halloween!
So is little H.

On Saturday after the race, our family took the ferry over to Martha's Vineyard with two other families to explore for the afternoon.  Even though it was chilly out and many of the shops were closed for the season, we enjoyed strolling along the windy beach; the most delicious fish and chips from the infamous Black Dog Tavern, followed by treats from the bakery; popping into a few shops; and and soaking up the beautiful homes.  I think the kids may have loved the ferry ride best of all.  It was the Hs' first time on a boat!

Harper, Brenn, and Carder on the shuttle bus to the Woods Hole ferry

Harper and her little friend, Noe, outside the Black Dog

"Do I have frosting on my nose?"
(Harper enjoying her treat from The Black Dog)

Little man, big beach.  Hunter was in heaven.

We returned home first thing on Sunday morning.  It's always sad when these weekends have to end, but we were grateful to have shared a special weekend with such dear friends.  We know that our friends, the Staples, have many miles left in their journey, but the loving spirit of their beautiful little girl was all around us that weekend--and it always will be.  Her life touched so many, and her light burns brightly in our hearts.

The Wilson boys, soaking in the view before we left for home

Little co-pilot in Daddy's glasses on the way home!