I suspect followers of this blog are also checking in on the
Chase Kowalski Memorial Fund site and viewing the incredible photos of Chase that Becky has posted. Chase is so expressive in these photos--intense, loving, playful, determined, HAPPY--it is so special to connect with him through these photos. I've written before about the picture on his mass card (see below)--he has such a sweet, approving face that it's hard to think of taking a short cut or slighting someone when you keep that image in mind. That's why the picture has been and will remain in the hub of our house (entrance to our kitchen). If I slip up, Chase is there with that forgiving smile and offers encouragement to get back on track. If I do something well, his smile confirms goodness of the deed. I apologize for going a bit deep here, and I will get back to the all-important details of my 3.2 mile run today, but I feel it is important to share the power of Chase's love of life and pure spirit that emanates from these photos. These traits motivate me and no doubt others to be better people than we were before December 14, 2012. I also need to thank my sister Beth for pushing me to open up about these feelings--I worry about scaring people away by getting too personal, but I agree with her that it is appropriate (in the right dosage!) Thanks Beth.
Ok, back to my comfort zone...I ran 3.2 miles at a very easy pace (perhaps saving energy for this post??) It was really nice out--low to mid 40's and finally a reasonable wind. I covered miles 235-237, sponsored by Lanita Davis (235-237) and the Moorehead Family (split mile 237 with Lanita). Lanita is a teacher at Rocky Heights Middle School and the Moorehead's son Davis is a student there. Thanks Lanita and the Moorehead Family and all of the folks at Rocky Heights.
| Date |
DoW |
ToD |
Distance |
Time |
Min/Mile |
Notes |
Effort |
Total Miles |
| 3/5 |
Tu |
3:15p |
3.2 |
26:41:00 |
8:20:19 |
43f |
5 |
237.3 |
 |
| My forever-smiling running buddy |
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| Sunny day to run the Batterson Lake loop (2.4 mile mark) |
 |
| Bright sky at the end of the run |
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Thanks for posting those great thoughts Kev. Chase’s pictures portray a wonderfully spirited little boy who seemed to have a love of and passion for everything he did. They just draw you in.
ReplyDeleteIt’s amazing that you have now carried Chase's approving and forgiving smile with you on over 200 miles (and now past the quarter)—out there running every day, sacrificing personal comfort in the cold of this harsh winter—no matter what—in snow (lots of snow!), ice, wind and rain…in the dark of early, predawn hours and after long days of work, doing it all for Chase, your sponsors and most important, for the Kowalskis and their mission to create Chase’s Place.
I am returning to this post following our first weekend of nicer weather. How great was it for you to finally get a weekend of temps in the 50s for a run?? Spring is just around the corner.
It’s a pleasure to read how this journey moves you and how it is changing your life for the better, which in turn changes the people you expose your journey to, for the better. Myself included, and I truly thank you for responding to my humble request to post some of your personal thoughts, (and I hope there are more!).
Great job Kev – you’re my hero and your sponsors rock!! - Sis