Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Ode To My Favorite Coug

I didn't know a prouder Washington State Alumni than Russ Westover... My Favorite Coug, as I always called him. He was a very friendly co-worker, who shared at work the love for his family, and who always offered a gorgeous smile. And there was no Friday that he didn't have a Coug item on him.

On Sunday May 10th, tragedy knocked at his door.

When my boss told me what happened I was in disbelief. All my recent emotions, that are far for closure were deeply touched, thinking on what another family has to go through. I was so stressed out that when I went to bed, my husband had to cover me with three blankets because I couldn't stop shivering.

I made the conscious decision of not going to the Memorial service. I am not yet emotionally prepared. However, I chose another venue.

On Saturday there was a race in University of Washington: Dawg Territory, Coug's rival. And with the beautiful scenic campus of UW Bothell, the gorgeous sunny and warm day, and the memory of Russ' beautiful smile I sang with my feet and heart an Ode to My Favorite Coug. Russ, God Bless You.



































Blowing a kiss to my hubby. The lady on my side, #210, took the second place of the Master Division.









The race raised my spirit.














I ran an official time of 28:59, a PR!!! Last tenth of a mile were sprinted at 6 some min/mile pace. It was insane. I saw this girl #200 and challenged her to sprint. We were running like demons, and everybody had to look at us because we were amazingly fast... at least for a tenth of a mile....

Division: 6/19 - Overall: 52/112


I wonder why I have that posture....


7 comments:

Jade Lady said...

So sorry to hear about your co-worker.

I'm glad you were able to find a way to commemorate him. My goodness, you are looking good in these photos, I must say!

Susan said...

LL, your posture was that way because your feet were faster than the rest of you!

I am so sorry to hear about Russ. You have been through so much in such a short time. The way that you handle it all with grace definitely makes you an inspiration.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful way to pay tribute to your friend. You've had your share of challenges lately. My prayers are with you.

ShirleyPerly said...

Dear LL, my condolences for the loss of your co-worker. What a wonderful way to remember him, though, at that race. I agree with Susan that it appears your feet were faster than your body -- congrats on your PR!!

CewTwo said...

Sorry, Lizzie. Your hands have been full. I do feel for you.

The old Morton saying is, "It never rains but it pours." That seems to have happened to you.

Just remember... Life is full of the good and the bod. It does balance out in the end! Good luck.

Did I ever mention that I have a Brother that lives in Botthel?

BTW... I did contribute to the Komeini fund. Good luck with both your fund raising and with that race.

CewTwo said...

Hi Lizzie!

It looks to me like you are doing OK. I think that sometimes we are too hard on ourselves. I am down now with PF (plantar fasciitis). I can ride the bike (and do) but I like to run. So I exercise every other day now and have missed all of my scheduled competitions.

I am sure that this is what everyone says, but just stick with it. It'll come back to you! (Just like I'm hoping it'll come back to me!)

Hang in there, kiddo!

BTW - My email is cewtwo@gmail.com and my new blog is located at www.cewtwo.com!

Irish Blue said...

Lizzie, so sorry to hear about Russ. You have had your share of sorrows, but you have handled it the best way you know how...with grace and courage.