Ike: A Runner!

This is a shout out to Ike, a new runner on the scene. In early September, Ike received a 9^th place medal for his efforts on the Clear Lake Iowa cross country track team. His mom is so proud and says “he is so much fun to watch when he runs.” On another fun night, Ike ran 2 miles in 13 minutes 4 seconds for 8th place. I would say he is a kiasan runner (continual improvement).

I first ran into Ike when he traveled to Seoul Korea with five of his siblings to visit his homeland.

His adoptive parents, Jill and Bob Branstad spent a small fortune to give their adopted sons and daughters the trip of a lifetime! 

It was a joy to spend a few days sightseeing, playing, eating, sleeping, laughing, and goofing off. We enjoyed Korea BBQ, prayed with the mountain Buddhist monks, learned local history, and shared unexpected adventures. 

His parents are absolutely fabulous people with hearts bigger than the Grand Canyon. Ike’s brothers and sisters are simply amazing: bright, beautiful, creative, energetic young people who will turn their world upside down. 

This talented family has, on many occasions, provided music, money, hard labor, brainy mania, and lots of energy to help others in need; to make a difference in their world. Without reservation, they reach out to others and offer whatever is needed to stop the gap.   

Keep running Ike!