Taking the Plunge!

The picture has nothing to do with this post!

Earlier this month, a friend of mine (with a marvelous name, whose blog is linked to the right) pitched the idea of running in the mini-marathon that is part of the Kentucky Derby Festival. He has asked me to join in his torturous games in years past - I've declined at least a couple of mini-marathons and a half-Iron Man! I also declined an offer from another friend, Ben (linked to the right) to gear up for a race this last fall. I wanted to run some race in the twelve months after my stroke (I'll post on that sometime), but I only made it up to seven miles at a time that year.

So, I've been training for a couple of weeks as a "trial run" before I dropped the entry fee today. It's been cold and windy for better than half my days, but that has strengthened my resolve. And don't worry, I bought some expensive running shoes with Christmas money (which I'm only supposed to use for running?) and a fancy $5 running shirt from Target. I'm set.

But here's a small tribute to my buddy, John Mark: you convinced me to sign up for my first race. You eased me into drinking black coffee (and there's no going back, I think). You asked me about my marriage and gave good advice before you were married. You have been a great encourager, an honest, humble and very discerning friend. I miss you, brother.