The biggest highlight was the Boys Town Memorial Day Run. This was the 25th anniversary, and since I was in town and wanted the race t-shirt, I signed up. Of the many years my mom worked at Boys Town, this was a frequent family event. I remember doing the 1 mile kid run and then holding onto my little ribbon while waiting for her to finish the 5 mile race. I thought she was superwoman.
It didn't take much convincing to get my mom to agree to tag along with me for race day this year. The weather was perfect, and we were able to see a few of her old friends while enjoying the pre-race festivities. Here's a few past/present race day pics:
1988: At first I was all aghast that the other kids have parents and little 8 year old me is left to run all alone. Then I remember someone was likely running next to me taking the picture. Hopefully?
2009: This is pretty close to the exact same road. (Almost 1500 people raced the 5 mile too, so I'm not sure why I look so alone. Odd.)
1989: Dayglow shirt? Spandex shorts? Keds shoes? Giant bangs? Helloooo, 80s!
2009: 20 years later. The shorts are similar, but the bangs are thankfully under control.
The race itself is a quick 5 mile course that curves and loops around the scenic square mile campus. A few hills, but I like how compact it all feels. You never seem very far from the finish.
The weather was beautiful, and I was thrilled that my mom came along to cheer and take pictures. It was a bit strange to pull into campus after so many years. The last time I was back at Boys Town was the day my mom retired over 10 years ago. Everything was exactly the same, except the trees were much bigger and the buildings seemed a little smaller. Funny how that happens.
Hooray for spring, and I'm looking forward to reading about what everyone else is up to.
