Favorite Event Each Year - Run For Refugees in New Haven Sponsored by @IRISCT. Today, I Arrive to Soak In the Beauty of Humanity & Love

In my closet, I have every racing jersey from the annual 5K Run for Refugees event. In fact, I could go well over 7 days a week simply wearing R4R attire. Between these and the Writing Our Lives T-Shirts, I almost have my own line of clothing. 

I've been running this race since I arrived in the State of Connecticut and I will continue to be there each and every year, as long as they host the celebration. Of course, we had to retreat virtually last year, but I still participated. In fact, it was the last time I ran a 5K. After that, Hendrick the Hernia made it impossible, so instead of running, I started walking every day. The surgery was a success, but then came the stabbed eye, followed my the ankle/boot, followed by Covid, followed by the flu, and capped off with 6 staples in my head a week ago because I don't know how to properly take a shower.

Crandall's a mess.

Yet in my garage is the equipment to get back into the groove. I still walk four to five miles a day, but haven't been running. This year was devoted to get me back on my feet and today was the race to kick it off. I know, however, that I should not run. I should walk. I also know I should not push myself to think I can run. I am afraid body parts will fall off and paramedics will need to sprint my way. Hey. Aren't those Crandall's intestines hanging from that tree. Look, Bob. I found a toe over by the creek.

We shall see what and how I do. I know it's not about me...this race...but about the great work that IRIS does for the State of Connecticut, for immigrants, and for refugee families. Simply hearing the music, seeing the people, having politicians speak and welcome us, and hearing the National Anthem are enough. That's all I need to fuel my heart and soul for the rest of the day. I'm going to the race to absorb everything. The Super Bowl is minor in comparison.

Perhaps I will trot from time to time, but I'm not pushing anything. It's been a rough year and I'm nowhere near the way I was through most of this past decade. One day at a time. Mid-life Crandall girth, aches, and pains. But my heart is in the right place and I still like to move. It's the pushing hard and sweating that seems to be doing me in.

One beautiful day at a time - this one being one of the more beautiful ones.

And I'm thanking the Great Whatever for all the snow.