I Made It

I didn't expect this entry to cover the following topic. Yesterday, on the day that I completed my streak of 1 year, my family buried my grandfather. He died this past Tuesday, December 23rd. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer about 2 years ago. We're pretty sure he had it for some time before that...why...because a year prior to the diagnosis he skipped the same appointment because it was scheduled when he was to be traveling. Anyone that knew him knew that nothing got in the way of traveling. I don't believe the cancer necessarily killed him. The radiation and small amount of chemo drained him completely. His energy and stamina virtually disappeared overnight. He never recovered from that and I think at that point he was ready to go.

My grandfather was a great man. His life was the epitome story of the immigrant who came to America with nothing, scraped to get by, obtained an education and citizenship, sponsored many other relatives into the country, and started a business (with 3 of his brothers) that grew to a chain of over 100 restaurants. In the latter part of his life, he traveled the world and spent time with the people he loved. He continued to "work" as a sort of godfather to the family business. Of course, I mean that in the most positive way. Everyone looked up to him and sought his wisdom and advice.

Baba, I will always miss you.

So, did I run yesterday on the day that we laid my grandfather to rest? Yes I did. And it completed my goal of running one mile per day for a year. Some may wonder if it was disrespectful to plan the day around getting my run in. If you put it in perspective, I don't believe it was at all. Knowing the funeral was coming, I thought about the events of the day. Everything started at 11:00am and was potentially going to stretch into the late evening. Seemed pretty simple to me. Do it in the morning. That's what I did. It didn't get in the way of anything and no one had to wait on me.

There have been too many events/excuses that could have gotten in the way throughout the year. That's why I decided to do this. I was tired of all the other times I had quit running or working out. Being active, healthy, or whatever, takes a little effort. You have to work around other obligations.

Completing the year has been surreal. I remember when I was so proud that I completed 100 days. It's hard to believe that was over 260 days ago. Even though my streak has always come up in conversation, it's excitement certainly was not always there. The past few days though were pretty neat. When I got to under 10 days/miles to go, each time I went out, I think I had a smirk on my face, knowing that I was almost there. My brother went out with me on day 365 (remember 08 is a leap year). He lives in California and came into town for the Holidays.

How about some stats for the year:
1. Completed approximately 700 miles
2. Lost 35 lbs
3. Dropped 50 points on my cholesterol
4. Ran two 5k races
5. Ran two 10k races
6. Average pace 9:36/mile


So will I run today...what do you think

In rememberance, I lost two other people close to me this year. In January, Kirk Burdick. A lifelong friend/mentor only 40 years old. He died of cancer.
February 29th, my grandmother (other side of the family) died. She had lived with my mother past few years. Mom was taking care of all her daily needs. Though a great burden, Mom wouldn't have had it any other way. She provided the best care for her. Grandma taught me how to fish. She explained to me that you can't push a rope (pretty big lesson here though I'm only devoting a sentence). She shared her love for music and art with me. Shortly before she began to live with Mom, I was able to take her on a short trip to her favorite place...New Orleans. I will always love you Grandma.

So on into year two. It's just one mile per day.