The Burlingames

Today was the Reeve 5k Memory Run. It’s the 2nd year of the 5k race in Reeve, WI (corner of Cty Rd A and Cty Rd K). The Reeve Evangelical Free Church has hosted the run for the past two years. Last year all the proceeds went to the Special Olympics in Wisconsin. This year all the proceeds went to the Heifer International program.

The boys, Nettie and Sierra and I, ran in the kiddie run.

For me, it’s so nice to have a day to spend with others who are grieving for a loved one. We are not worried about anniversaries, causes of death or anything else, we are focusing on the love we have for our family and friends who “beat” us to heaven. There were people to walked/ran in memory of Mom but lots of people were walking/running in memory of their friends and/or family. We have a united cause for the day, it was nice. I liked it!

Sporting our race shirts. Dave designed the shirts and Dad picked the color.

Brianna was not able to participate this year, she had a bowling tournament for Special Olympics. Dad and Cindy (his girlfriend) pushed the boys for a portion of the race. They turned around and headed back when they saw me (Cindy’s back wasn’t able to handle the distance). :-) My dear friend, Katie and her sweet babe, Caleb participated as well. Katie did some walking and running, she did a GREAT job!!

Dad, Cindy (Dad’s girlfriend) and the boys walking for part of the 5k.

Eli and Noah participated in the “Kiddie Run” (see first picture above) and did a great job. Nettie and Sierra ran as well. Eli took off running and was super excited. Poppa was waiting for him at the finish line and Eli ran straight to him. Eli was super excited because he WON!! I had several people comment about how nice it was to see Eli running and so healthy. The Reeve Church family has prayed for Eli since the day we found out about his heart condition. It made everyone’s heart glad to see him doing so well. Praise God!!!

Katie and Caleb pushing through the race with bright smiles!!

I ran my fastest time today (29:08 mins). The hardest part was running uphill in the beginning. The rest of the race was a piece of cake, so to speak. I was sprinting almost the rest of the way back to the park. It was hard running up the hill, but felt great running back down. I especially loved hearing everyone cheering me on as I passed them. It helped my sad heart.

Nettie took a picture of me running, not the best look but it proves that I did it!!

The church provided a yummy lunch afterward of BBQ sandwiches, fruit, chips and cookies. There were also hot beverages to warm up our cold bodies. It was a cold, rainy day. Brrr!!!

Steve and I won for the men and women divisions. Steve won overall as well. :-)

I came in 3rd place overall, but won first place for the women’s division. Steve (pictured above) won the race overall as well for the men’s division. I got a high-five from Steve after he made the turn to head back to the finish line. It was encouraging!

I won!!!!