Ends and Beginnings

Dear Ravi,

August is winding to a close. Today is the first day of the Minnesota State Fair. Like you, I am an introvert and have no urge at all to go hang out with a million sweaty Minnesotans. For the next 10 days, I will be avoiding Snelling Avenue. The places that we used to haunt are on the other side of the fairgrounds, and I have no need to go there.

I met Laurie for a walk this morning. I brought Raya and she brought Luka. We rambled about, looked at plants and animals and let our dogs get in some good sniffs and pee breaks. Later, I returned home and took Jack Jack and Gloria for a run through the neighborhood. On our run we came across two male cardinals having an intense discussion up in a tree. I think it was you and Dave Evans, hanging out and shooting the breeze. You are both incredible people and I am glad you got to meet each other. If you bump into another Dave, Dave Coyne, give him a shoutout from me. Twin Cities Running is still going strong, but we miss him, a lot.

I have just over 2 weeks until your memorial run. I love the name of this race, Finish the Run, and I love the slogan, Run with Intention. Ravi, I run with intention for you every time I lace up my running shoes. I am not fast, but I still love the sensation that running gives me. It brings me closer to you. There is another race coming up called Brave like Gabe. She was a local runner who passed of brain cancer a few years ago. Her run is designed to raise money for rare cancers. I may run this race as well. Races have gotten expensive, but I am happy to run them when they are used to raise money for good causes. I can’t think of a better cause than fighting cancer.

Your daddy is out at the airfield today and the clouds look perfect for soaring. He is starting to study so he can become a glider instructor. He is also taking two classes at the community college, just for fun. Slowly, we are finding ways to leave the house. I am working 2 or 3 days a week and am enjoying it. The person I care for uses an AAC, just like you, and she is smart, funny, and sassy. You would enjoy her. Not much else is going on, but we really miss you. Cardinals make us smile. Keep soaring high and know that those of us left behind will never stop talking about you. We are keeping your memory and your legacy alive. Love you forever. Mom.