Bintan!

Following a unique and highly controversial regiment of donuts, coffee and the occasional workout Mark spent the last few months getting himself ‘into shape’ for an upcoming triathlon. Mark signed up for this race back in January without much thought for what it would ultimately entail… but wanted to do so as a good way to say goodbye to three great friends who are leaving JIS and Jakarta this summer… all of who were participating in the triathlon.

So after months of sporadic training Mark headed up to Singapore and then over to Bintan Island to take part in the 2010 Bintan Olympic distance triathlon last weekend. Olympic distance entails a 1500 meter swim in the ocean, a 40 kilometer (about 22 miles) bike ride and then a 10 kilometer (about 6.5 miles) run.

Silencing doubters from around the world Mark finished the race in record time and placed first in the 'guys in scrappy board shorts' category!

It was a very arduous afternoon…. but a fantastic experience!

All smiles 30 minutes before the race.


Mark smiles with good buddies Rhona Polonsky (our school librarian) and Dan Kerr on the beach minutes before the official start.


Still smiling near the end... not in last place! Sweet.

Bella Sings Again!

This morning was once again the annual Spring Concert here at Pattimura. Like last year... our little Bella did a GREAT job singing! Check out a few videos of our little angel:

Our Little Daredevil

Our little Jake has a new hobby: walking off the edge of things from way up high! We're not sure if this is a sign of bravery... or just a complete lack of common sense, but he does love tumbling!


Check out the boy amusing himself yesterday afternoon:

A Discovery Morning

Last Saturday monrning all four of us went to the "Discovery" preschool not too far from our house. Three times a week they have a 'drop-in' session for little kids. We used to take Bella here quite often when she was 2 years old. While it's really for little toddlers (like Jake) Bella wanted to come along.... so we made it a family outing!

Jake gives his stoic face as he hangs out in the play ground.


Water play! Bella has fun while Jake gets himself seriously wet.


Jake smiles as he toddles around in his wet shorts.


Jake enjoys pouring water all over the place.


With no dry pants on hand... Jake headed off to the kitchen area to fire up some breakfast for us. Love the outfit!


Jake prepares a lovely meal for his parents.


Singing time! Jake tries to escape from his ever so enthusiastic sister. Yes... we know what you are thinking... and we agree: Jake is going in for a haircut this weekend!