Jake kept the Baker dynasty intact, after 15 years, 4 children, 4 STP’s (Ryan did 3 of them, Natalie the 4th), 2 RSVP’s (Jillian & Jake), and over 1,000 miles of cycling.  Jake & I did the 185-mile ride from Seattle to Vancouver B.C. this past weekend.  He was awesome, full of willpower and leg power to spare, and ready to party at the end.  We celebrated with burgers, fajitas, and a huge root beer float (with refills!).  “Hey, Jake, you can have unlimited root beer floats anytime you want after riding 185 miles!”  Linda provided exquisite road support, did all the driving, and even gave back rubs.  At age 10, Jake was by far the youngest rider, provoking endless admiration and exclamations from the huffing & puffing adults out there.  Of course, it was the same for his siblings, as each of them also did their big rides when they were 10.  They each set the bar high, and Jake came through to keep their string intact.   I am so proud of my children.  Ryan, Natalie, Jillian & Jake, you are the best and most priceless gift I have.  It’s an honor to be your dad.

 

 

 

and previous years of glory…

 

hey, kids, i’m counting on you to keep supporting me in my old age!