Table B5

So here is my apology in advance: I am about to be long and sappy, I think I'm about due. If you decide to tune me out here, no hard feelings (I promise).

Anyway troopers, some days the only way to get through a decent run (especially days like today when the area from my neck to my calves is still burning from yesterdays run...before I even leave the house)is to think about something completely unrelated to what I'm doing...So today had me thinking..

This past year I have had my share of rough patches (really, who hasn't though?), and I think perhaps I haven't told my parents just how much I appreciate them. So courtesy of a fabulous run today, here are a few reasons.

Dad-

(one) Whenever I am home and need to borrow a quarter, it always makes me smile to see that you still keep your change in a rinky box I made for you when I was in about second grade.

(two) Although you raised me to be fiercely independent, you always treated me with respect. You taught me to know the difference between chivalry and being treated as inferior.

(three) There was never a reason grand enough to keep you from any of my track meets (or dance recitals, yikes!), and I can honestly say that even when absolutely no one understood the personal weight of what I accomplished (or failed to accomplish) you always understood.

(four) Although you are incredibly open-minded and accepting, when it comes to matters of the heart you taught me to be picky. Frankly, not every fella deserves a shot. (but really, what father of a 20-year old will refute this?)

(five) You are quiet and humble. Not a man of an awful lot of words, but boy do you sure know how to wrestle dogs and make people laugh.

Mom-

(one) You are, without a doubt, my very best friend. Whenever anything happens (good or bad) my fingers are already dialing your number.

(Two) There is not a moment I can remember where you have made me feel anything less than the most spectacularly special person on earth (especially on birthdays!)

(Three) You have never (not once!) skipped a day of walking the dog because of the weather (even if it means you leave at 3:30 AM to beat out a storm..crazy!)

(Four) You appreciate things with unmatched sentiment. The things that deserve to be near and dear to your heart are without a doubt in their right place.

(Five) Throughout my life you have never (not once!) tried to change me. You have never scrutinized my appearance or my choices. Muddy feet always make you smile (dirty floor, not so much..), and the only expectations you ever hold for me are the ones I already have for myself.

Most of all, whenever I am being a complete grouch (notice: present tense..) you always put up with me!

thank you, thank you

-R