My Dad was born on July 4, 1907, and would thus be 100 years old today. My own theory is that, due to the patriotic connotations of the holiday, his parents decided to give him the middle name of Loyal. But, being relatively uneducated farmers, they misspelled it. I never got to inquire about this, though. Grandpa Allen (my namesake) died over 20 years before my birth (1872-1934). And although I can remember sitting on the lap of Grandma Libbie (1873-1966) as a young boy, and reading to her, I was hardly asking genealogical questions at the time!
Running in Dad's honor today, I did another 5K, the Tortoise and Hare race through downtown Ann Arbor. On the flat, fast course, under cloudy, humid skies, I was trying for a good time, and was happy to finish in a PR (personal record) of 34:52. (Previously, I had done one last August in 35:15.) Before my accident, I could have run 5K in under 25 minutes ... but it's a whole new world now!
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5 comments:
We think it is awesome that you are running again! Happy Birthday to your father, to Graciela (Martin's wife in Guatemala),and to Selena's sister as well! We are sure the picture you have posted must cause chills for all of you and at the same time remind you of God's goodness. We give thanks for your life and for what you have been and done for so many since that fateful day. ....and a paraphrase in Psalm 29 v.6....The Lord makes Alan 'skip like a calf.....The Lord gives strenth to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace. Grace and peace.
Hey, Allen. Your blogsite is awesome! It is neat to know other things about you and your family. The picture of your accident is spooky; isn't it. Thanks for sharing!
Blessings,
Karen N.
It is with great joy and an equal portion of pride that I join in the celebration of your Life Day. Congratulations, my Dear Friend.
Some people have vivid memories of what they were doing on 9-11, the day JFK was shot, and when Princess Diana died in her fatal car crash; I remember the day I learned about your accident. I was on the phone with another of my friends from Okemos and was casually weeding my garden at our new home in Terre Haute, Indiana, when she told me about your accident. Initially, I was told you were either dead or would die soon. I had to sit down, and the numbness of shock gave way to a terrible wave of sorrow. I grieved and grieved before finally calling to find out more.
I remember with clarity, also, the incredible transformation of emotions that came over me, from such despair to such utter joy and hope. I couldn't come to visit you until much later, but while you were still in the hospital, so I sent my father-in-law, who reported that you could move your finger at the time of his visit.
I am so proud of all of your accomplishments! You would need a room of walls to post all that you have achieved since I last saw you! It is a blessing to call you friend and to have shared in your life from when you were a student at MSU and our next-door neighbor to the present.
You inspire me!
Jules,
What a wonderful and deserved tribute to Allen from a wonderful friend.
Allen:
Good job on the 5K. I am getting too lazy to run, so I salute your dedication.
Tom
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