Today is my Dad's birthday. I hate missing birthdays and holidays and basically celebrations of any kind back home. And today is no different. I wish I could be at the cross country meet, cheering on Jenna and Baker and Dad's Spartan runners with him. I wish I could be there to go out for dinner and eat Mom's coconut cream pie and watch the Oregon football game.
But since I'm in Africa (and at the moment I'm on a hotel rooftop overlooking Lake Victoria, so I'm not really complaining), I thought I'd post a blog instead about how blessed I feel to have such a wonderful Dad.
Posing for a photo with the Heisman trophy last fall at a Ducks game in Eugene.
On the World Race I have become incredibly grateful for everything that I have at home; nothing more so than my family. I have realized, not only from the people I have met in third world countries, but also from hearing my own squad mates' testimonies, how rare it is to have such a loving and supportive family.
My Dad and sisters and I at the Kansas High School State Track Meet a few years ago.
My Dad is the most ambitous, determined, hard-working person I know. Two years ago today he walked 50 miles. Fifty miles in one day! I am so thankful for my Dad for instilling in me the same spirit: that I can do anything I set my mind to.
I credit my Dad for my blonde hair, my need to be invovled in a jillion projects at one time, and my love for track and field, Oregon, and hiking. I am so blessed to have had so many amazing experiences traveling and running and camping and talking together the last 27 years.
At the 2011 Penn Relays in Philadelphia
Dad, thank you for always believing in me and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. Thank you for allowing me to share your passions, without ever pushing them on me.
I cannot wait to see you in less than three months and to catch up over limeades and the Olympics on DVR!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
