I am not a “runner.” Rick, my husband is. He loves it so much he is a member of a “Running Streak” club. The requirement to be a member is that you run a minimum of a mile per day, every day. Yes, EVERY DAY. Whether it is raining or there are 100-degree temperatures. Whether you are feeling full of energy or are running a temperature.  You run. You just do.

Rick says he enjoys the challenge.  I enjoy challenges, but not that kind.

Rick uses races as one incentive to keep running; so he is typically always preparing for a race – somewhere. Half-marathons are his favorites, but when a “fun run” comes along, he’s definitely game for that too.

This past weekend, Fremont, where our son and daughter-in-law (Brian and Melissa) live, were having “Fremont Days,” a birthday celebration for their town.  One of the weekend events was a 2.5 mile fun run, so Rick, naturally, registered. So did Brian, Melissa, 3-year-old Owen, and 2-year-old Ella.  Owen said he was going to run and “WIN!” (Guess he inherited Grandpa’s competitive streak.) Ella was going to be pushed in a stroller by Melissa. Me? I was the photographer. I actually did a bit of running, going from one point to another, but probably not 2.5 miles.

Rick took the race seriously and came in 2nd place for his age group. (Go, Rick!)  He then went back out on the course to finish with Brian, Melissa, Owen, and Ella. Brian didn’t inherit the “running genes” from his Dad, but he had fun running with Owen. Owen entertained the crowd with his antics as he ran in circles on the course. Melissa pushed Ella in the stroller and drew smiles from the crowds.

The weather was perfect. Blue skies, a gentle breeze. Quality time with the family.  I didn’t think anything could melt my heart like that does…. until I took the photos off my camera and saw this one.