Happy Memorial Day (weekend), everyone! Sometimes this weekend seems to be overtaken by vacations, BBQ's, and (if you're from Indiana like me) the 500. While all of those things are fine and dandy, we cannot forget the REAL reason for our holiday: the men and women who have given their lives from our freedom. I wanted desperately to do something--anything--to honor these heroes, and I ran across a flier for a 5k being sponsored by a local VFW chapter, with all proceeds going to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Although all of my running buddies were either going out of town for the long weekend or very, VERY pregnant and Jonathan was working (of course), I decided to do it anyway. Only a cause as important as this could convince me that a race in the late-May Vegas heat while pushing a jogging stroller was a good idea. :)
I very rarely include Matty on my runs. Not only does he get bored easily, but my sturdy boy and the stroller combine for at least 30 pounds of extra weight. Factor in the Mohave Desert heat and the ups and downs of Spring Mountain foothills and . . . well . . . you get the picture. But, this kid ROCKED his first 5k. Armed with his blanket, some water, and a baggie of goldfish, he was the perfect running partner (although, I wouldn't have minded if he pulled his own weight instead of me having to push it). :)
Random side note: a "celebrity" appearance was made by this guy. Don't recognize him? Me either. Apparently, he's the husband on the TLC show "Sister Wives," and he was here MINUS his three wives. With the crowd of desperate, fame-hungry women who surrounded him, I don't think it would be hard for him to find a fourth. Pathetic.
Anyways, I absolutely LOVE doing events that involve our military men and women and/or veterans. Not that civilians don't appreciate our country, but you haven't experienced patriotism until you've been surrounded by those who have made REAL sacrifices for it. Unlike most events, during the singing of the National Anthem and the subsequent moment of silence for local hero Marine PFC John Lukac who gave the ultimate sacrifice, people here really meant it when they saluted the flag or placed their hands over their hearts. And the moment of silence was SILENT. Actually and completely silent. It was very, very moving.
I made Matty a promise that he could play at the park if he behaved during my race. He made a few whines during the run (didn't help that the run was at one of his favorite parks and we ran right past the playground a few times) but, on the whole, he was amazing. I was more than happy to head over and let him get out some energy after the race.
Yes, Matty, I'm sure that you most certainly need to cool off after your long, 5k ride. ;)
That water was COLD, though, and it wasn't long before we moved on the real fun. And boy, did he have serious energy to burn off.
"You sure it's okay for me to go down the slide this way?"
Why in the world does Vegas find it necessary to put statues of giant yucky things in its' parks? I mean, I know they're fake but still. Let's teach the kids that's its okay to go up to things like giant lizards and snakes. Giant rattler? Didn't faze Matty in the least.
Love the "prehistoric" part of this park. In Matty's words: "WOW."
Thank you again to those who have served, are currently serving, or who have given the ultimate sacrifice for me. Words cannot begin to express my gratitude and, although it may seem as if the world doesn't care, there are those who do. You are never forgotten and never taken for granted. God bless.
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