Posted by Mark
We arranged to go to the Shumways on Saturday to celebrate the arrival of Joe and Griselda Jensen, our in-laws from Washington. We agreed that since Saturday is a busy day, we would should all meet at 8:30 a.m. for an early breakfast. I had the idea the night before that I might just put on my shoes and run there if it proved a reasonable distance. It just so happened my my sister-in-law, Wendy, was at our house during the discussion and volunteered to clock the distance on her way home that night. When she called and informed me that it was just 12 miles, I was hooked. So I dutifully got up at first light on Saturday morning and made the trek.
The Shumways, knowing I was planning on doing this, piled all the kids in their van and met me enroute with water, hugs and orange slices. What an encouraging experience that was. Chloe, being caught up in the spirit of the moment, was so proud of her Daddy that she broke out and cried her eyes out until I asked her to run with me for a little while to shake it off, which she gladly accepted. Together we logged an awesome father/daughter jog that was a memorable experience. The two of us hitting the open highway together for a victory run was awesome.
For the grand finale I recieved a huge hero's welcome when I later arrived at the Shumways house. Everyone was yelling and screaming as I finished the home stretch and made the gruelling climb up their driveway. I felt like the winner of an Olympic event. All told, it took me 1:30 to do it, not exactly an olympic speed but good for me. But most of all, I really appreciate the love and encouragemt I got from my family. Thank you guys for always supporting me! I'ts nice to be loved, recognized and encouraged by the people whom I love the most.
Just know that I was rooting you on all the way from Utah. Way to go Mark!!
ReplyDelete