When I returned home late after studying for my Entrepreneurship and Innovation class finals with my industrious GWU classmates, I was shocked beyond comprehension. I flicked on the news to see jubilant university students and a throng of mostly young people celebrating in front of the White House. They popped champagne corks, climbed trees and swung from lampposts. Whoa, what happened? Did DC finally get the monkey off their backs and win a playoff series? Many were still in sports jerseys embracing perfect strangers regardless of team loyalty. They had stepped out of a Washington Capitals playoff game, and would be out here celebrating till the wee hours of the night. Revelers waved American flags and chanted “USA, USA!”, celebrating the heartwarming news from President Obama that Bin Laden was killed in a firefight.
Jubilant Americans had stormed Lafayette Square as if it was V-J day all over again. I was overjoyed to witness an outpouring of patriotism and devotion for our country displayed by the college-aged-crowd—the generation that were just kids when 9/11 struck. These Millennials will be around—raising our flag—a lot longer than the Boomers for the rest of this eventful tumultuous, 21st century.
Despite it been finals week, no exam was more significant or impactful. I felt that it was imperative that I had to be physically in front of the White House to witness history been made. Everything else played second fiddle. This was our version of the falling of the Berlin Wall. Would it mark a pivotal moment in history during the Global War on Terror?
As I snapped pictures on my phone, I noticed a DM from Janine Zuniga, reporter at the San Diego Union Tribune. She was reporting on the event and searching for a quote.
I have known Janine for over ten years. Back in December, I made a pact with Janine and Jari that I would visit them to run a marathon and they would do the same in DC.
Back in December, I made a pact with Janine and Jari that I would visit them to run a marathon and they would do the same in DC.
When Janine met me at the San Diego Convention Center where I had gone to pick up my bib at the marathon expo, it bought back memories from old times when and I was still a junior officer onboard USS John. C. Stennis, and Janine was a roving reporter for the Union Tribune. I vividly recall the bittersweet moment of bidding farewell to her while the Stennis set sail towards a zone of uncertainty and danger in the aftermath of 9/11.
Janine’s catapult launch off aboard a C2 Greyhound was a truly unforgettable experience. As she prepared for takeoff, she braced herself for the intense G-forces that would accompany the launch. The sensation of being propelled from the deck, facing aft, created a unique and somewhat amusing feeling. It was an adrenaline-filled moment that combined excitement and awe entwined with a sense of sadness.
Jari & Janine before the start of the San Diego Marathon
The following day, Janine, her husband Jari, and I started the Rock-n-Roll Marathon together, but our paths diverged as the race progressed. Despite Jari recently completing an Ironman and Janine recovering from a plantar fasciitis injury, they both achieved personal records.
For me, it was one of my slowest marathons. I wasn’t focused on my PR — my main focus was on meeting people and genuinely listening to their stories. This approach allowed me to learn from their experiences, empathize with their challenges, and build meaningful connections.
The event was also special to me because I was running in memory of a special friend. For nearly two years, I had the honor to work with LT Florence Choe at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. Flo, who worked as a health care administrator for Medical and Surgical Services, was always giving of herself whether or not it was her responsibility to do so. She was very supportive of the corpsmen assigned to the Medical Evaluation (MedEvac) teams who made regular runs to Joint Base Andrews to bring our Wounded Warriors home.
Almost daily, I would pass by her office and became inspired by her calm demeanor and radiant smile leaving an indelible and lasting impression on my mind. Flo was always offering of her services taking pride in her work and supporting her Chiefs and Corpsmen, both in her department and throughout the hospital.
In 2009, Florence made a courageous decision to volunteer for a year-long deployment to Afghanistan as an “individual augmentee.” During her deployment, she took on the responsibility of running the medical station, providing essential care to U.S. and Afghan troops and civilians.
Tragically, on March 27, 2009, while taking an afternoon jog on the outskirts of Forward Operating Base Shaheen with a fellow Sailor, a Seabee, their lives were forever altered. An Afghan insurgent, disguised as an Afghan National Army soldier, raised his weapon and shot Florence and her companion, along with a third military officer who miraculously survived the attack.
This devastating incident left behind Florence’s loving family—a young daughter and her husband, who also served as a Medical Service Corps officer in the Navy. Florence was a fervent advocate and supporter of the United Through Reading program. She understood the significance of providing troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan with access to children’s books and the means to record and send home their heartfelt readings to their families.
After Florence’s passing, her family received a poignant reminder of her beautiful spirit. In the mail, they began receiving the DVDs she had recorded before her death. Her husband and daughter found comfort and joy in watching these recordings, cherishing their moments with her and basking in her warm smile that radiated through the videos.
Florence’s legacy lives on through her selfless service, her dedication to supporting her fellow service members, and her love for her family. Her commitment to United Through Reading continues to touch the lives of those serving far from home, leaving an enduring impact on the hearts of many.
As I embarked on the marathon route through the vibrant streets of San Diego, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement. The race commenced at the iconic Petco Park, where the cheers of the crowd and the sound of enthusiastic music set the stage for the adventure ahead.
As the course wound through downtown, the bustling city life provided a dynamic backdrop to the run. Skyscrapers reached for the sky, and the hum of traffic intermingled with the cheers of spectators lining the sidewalks, their encouraging words fueling my determination. I couldn’t help but glance up at the majestic buildings that towered above, admiring the sleek architectural wonders that make San Diego’s skyline so captivating.
Reaching Harbor Drive, the refreshing breeze from the nearby San Diego Bay enveloped the course, providing a pleasant reprieve from the exertion. The glistening waters of the bay danced in the sunlight, offering a serene view that contrasted with the energy of the race.
As I continued, I found myself in Hillcrest, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its unique charm. The cheers of supporters echoed through the streets, uplifting the runners and creating a sense of camaraderie among us all. However, the infamous CA-163 hill loomed ahead, and it proved to be a challenging stretch. The hill’s steep ascent put my stamina to the test, but I drew inspiration from the determination of my fellow runners who pressed on beside me.
Cresting the hill, a sense of accomplishment washed over me as the course led into the heart of San Diego’s cultural gem, Balboa Park. The rich greenery and architectural splendors of the park surrounded us, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The lush palm trees lined the path, casting shadows on the pavement as a reminder of the city’s laid-back charm.
The last few miles of the marathon were a triumphant descent, as the course wound its way back to downtown. The excitement was palpable as we approached the Gaslamp Quarter, where the cheers of the crowd and lively music filled the air. The energy of the Block Party embraced us as we made our way to the finish line.
As I crossed that final milestone, a wave of elation and pride swept over me. The marathon had been a journey through the heart and soul of San Diego—its bustling streets, stunning waterfront, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks—all intertwined into an experience that I will forever treasure.
It was a remarkable revelation that in just five hours during the marathon, I had witnessed more of San Diego than I had in the previous five years of living there. The experience had taken me on an exhilarating journey through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and scenic waterfront, leaving an indelible impression on my mind.
Although both Jari and Janine had finished the marathon over an hour before me, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of admiration for their incredible athleticism and determination. They had already returned to their homes in the picturesque area of La Mesa by the time I crossed the finish line, celebrating their well-earned achievements.
Janine’s performance was particularly awe-inspiring, as she came remarkably close to qualifying for the prestigious Boston Marathon—an accomplishment that most runners aspire to throughout their careers. Her impressive performance was a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her passion for running. It was evident that she was on the brink of achieving this extraordinary feat in the near future, and I couldn’t help but feel proud of her progress and perseverance.
As I reflected on the day’s events, I realized that the marathon was about much more than just a physical test of endurance. It was an opportunity to connect with the city I called home, to explore its diverse tapestry, and to witness the shared enthusiasm of fellow runners and spectators alike. The marathon united people from all walks of life, transcending boundaries and forging lasting memories.
As I walked through the streets of San Diego after the race, a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude washed over me. The experience had not only allowed me to complete a personal milestone but had also deepened my appreciation for the city’s beauty and the camaraderie of the running community.
In the coming days, I couldn’t help but look back at the moments spent with Jari and Janine, their inspiring performances, and the sense of unity that permeated the entire marathon. Their achievements had served as a motivating force, spurring me to set new goals and to embrace the city even further.
The San Diego Rock-n-Roll Marathon had been an unforgettable chapter in my life—a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of the city’s vibrant spirit, and a testament to the incredible resilience and determination of those who ran alongside me. It was an experience that had left an indelible mark on my heart, compelling me to continue exploring, growing, and embracing life’s adventures with open arms.
As my time in San Diego came to a close, I decided to stay at the HI Hostel located in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. This lively district is renowned for its historic charm, bustling nightlife, and a wide array of entertainment options, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
The HI Hostel in the Gaslamp District was a gem nestled amidst the colorful and lively streets. Its exterior boasted a blend of contemporary architecture and a touch of historical charm, seamlessly blending into the neighborhood’s unique character. As I approached the entrance, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, a testament to the hostel’s reputation for hospitality and comfort.
Once inside, I was met with a sense of camaraderie, as travelers from different corners of the world mingled in the common areas. The hostel’s interior was tastefully designed, featuring cozy lounges adorned with eclectic decorations, comfortable seating, and inviting communal spaces. These areas were ideal for sharing travel stories, forming new friendships, and exchanging tips on exploring the city.
The Gaslamp District itself was a delightful playground, buzzing with energy day and night. As the sun set, the streets came alive with neon lights, casting a colorful glow on the historical buildings that lined the sidewalks. The area was a hub for diverse entertainment, including restaurants, bars, clubs, and live music venues, catering to all tastes and preferences.
I was just on my way in search of an evening of entertainment when I received this email:
Dear Chito,
I am very pleased to inform you of your conditional acceptance to Plug and Play’s Startup Camp Program for the Summer 2011 session.
We need more time to review your company, so we are conditionally accepting you and welcome you to participate in the first 2 weeks of the 10-week program, after which we will make a final decision. Additionally, can you please submit more info on the following items: Team, which University? The full program is valued at $10,000, and will take place at our Silicon Valley location in Sunnyvale, California.
On behalf of the entire Plug and Play community, I extend a warm welcome and best wishes for RUNINOut’ssuccess. We appreciate your interest in joining Plug and Play and look forward to helping you build and further develop your company.
Please submit the acceptance offer by EOD today if you can join us.
Best wishes and congratulations!
University Relations Manager
440 N Wolfe Rd. Sunnyvale, CA 94085
As I embarked on the marathon route through the vibrant streets of San Diego, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement. The race commenced at the iconic Petco Park, where the cheers of the crowd and the sound of enthusiastic music set the stage for the adventure ahead.
As the course wound through downtown, the bustling city life provided a dynamic backdrop to the run. Skyscrapers reached for the sky, and the hum of traffic intermingled with the cheers of spectators lining the sidewalks, their encouraging words fueling my determination. I couldn’t help but glance up at the majestic buildings that towered above, admiring the sleek architectural wonders that make San Diego’s skyline so captivating.
Reaching Harbor Drive, the refreshing breeze from the nearby San Diego Bay enveloped the course, providing a pleasant reprieve from the exertion. The glistening waters of the bay danced in the sunlight, offering a serene view that contrasted with the energy of the race.
As I continued, I found myself in Hillcrest, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its unique charm. The cheers of supporters echoed through the streets, uplifting the runners and creating a sense of camaraderie among us all. However, the infamous CA-163 hill loomed ahead, and it proved to be a challenging stretch. The hill’s steep ascent put my stamina to the test, but I drew inspiration from the determination of my fellow runners who pressed on beside me.
Cresting the hill, a sense of accomplishment washed over me as the course led into the heart of San Diego’s cultural gem, Balboa Park. The rich greenery and architectural splendors of the park surrounded us, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The lush palm trees lined the path, casting shadows on the pavement as a reminder of the city’s laid-back charm.
The last few miles of the marathon were a triumphant descent, as the course wound its way back to downtown. The excitement was palpable as we approached the Gaslamp Quarter, where the cheers of the crowd and lively music filled the air. The energy of the Block Party embraced us as we made our way to the finish line.
As I crossed that final milestone, a wave of elation and pride swept over me. The marathon had been a journey through the heart and soul of San Diego—its bustling streets, stunning waterfront, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks—all intertwined into an experience that I will forever treasure.
It was a remarkable revelation that in just five hours during the marathon, I had witnessed more of San Diego than I had in the previous five years of living there. The experience had taken me on an exhilarating journey through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and scenic waterfront, leaving an indelible impression on my mind.
Although both Jari and Janine had finished the marathon over an hour before me, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of admiration for their incredible athleticism and determination. They had already returned to their homes in the picturesque area of La Mesa by the time I crossed the finish line, celebrating their well-earned achievements.
Janine’s performance was particularly awe-inspiring, as she came remarkably close to qualifying for the prestigious Boston Marathon—an accomplishment that most runners aspire to throughout their careers. Her impressive performance was a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her passion for running. It was evident that she was on the brink of achieving this extraordinary feat in the near future, and I couldn’t help but feel proud of her progress and perseverance.
As I reflected on the day’s events, I realized that the marathon was about much more than just a physical test of endurance. It was an opportunity to connect with the city I called home, to explore its diverse tapestry, and to witness the shared enthusiasm of fellow runners and spectators alike. The marathon had united people from all walks of life, transcending boundaries and forging lasting memories.
As I walked through the streets of San Diego after the race, a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude washed over me. The experience had not only allowed me to complete a personal milestone but had also deepened my appreciation for the city’s beauty and the camaraderie of the running community.
In the coming days, I couldn’t help but look back at the moments spent with Jari and Janine, their inspiring performances, and the sense of unity that permeated the entire marathon. Their achievements had served as a motivating force, spurring me to set new goals and to embrace the city even further.
The San Diego Rock-n-Roll Marathon had been an unforgettable chapter in my life—a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of the city’s vibrant spirit, and a testament to the incredible resilience and determination of those who ran alongside me. It was an experience that had left an indelible mark on my heart, compelling me to continue exploring, growing, and embracing life’s adventures with open arms.
As my time in San Diego came to a close, I decided to stay at the HI Hostel located in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. This lively district is renowned for its historic charm, bustling nightlife, and a wide array of entertainment options, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
The HI Hostel in the Gaslamp District was a gem nestled amidst the colorful and lively streets. Its exterior boasted a blend of contemporary architecture and a touch of historical charm, seamlessly blending into the neighborhood’s unique character. As I approached the entrance, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, a testament to the hostel’s reputation for hospitality and comfort.
Once inside, I was met with a sense of camaraderie, as travelers from different corners of the world mingled in the common areas. The hostel’s interior was tastefully designed, featuring cozy lounges adorned with eclectic decorations, comfortable seating, and inviting communal spaces. These areas were ideal for sharing travel stories, forming new friendships, and exchanging tips on exploring the city.
The Gaslamp District itself was a delightful playground, buzzing with energy day and night. As the sun set, the streets came alive with neon lights, casting a colorful glow on the historical buildings that lined the sidewalks. The area was a hub for diverse entertainment, including restaurants, bars, clubs, and live music venues, catering to all tastes and preferences.
I was just on my way in search for an evening of entertainment, when I received this email:
The following day, I arrived at the Plug and Play in Sunnyvale, California, brimming with nervous excitement. The venue itself was impressive, hosting a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and tech enthusiasts, offering a wealth of knowledge and expertise to absorb. As I stepped into this thriving ecosystem, my eagerness to learn and network soared.
The ambiance at the networking reception in the rooftop lounge was simply splendid. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and camaraderie, as like-minded individuals exchanged ideas and experiences. Delicious food, refreshing beverages, and ample deck space adorned with lounge chairs perfectly complemented the soothing rays of the California sun, creating an idyllic setting for meaningful interactions.
Next door, I discovered Planet Granite, a renowned rock climbing gym known for its excellence worldwide. The gym was a magnet for Googlers and ambitious young individuals seeking to unwind and let off steam. Here, I found numerous opportunities to engage with these driven minds, picking their brains, and exchanging insights about our passions.
One particular day, I had the chance to spend an hour working out with a seasoned entrepreneur who generously shared both his rock climbing expertise and invaluable advice on starting a new business. As we scaled the walls together, he imparted essential wisdom, emphasizing the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people.
“The key to success is having the right people around you—those who complement your skills,” the accomplished founder said with a reassuring tone. His words resonated deeply, reminding me that success is not a solitary journey but a collaborative effort fueled by the collective strengths of a cohesive team.
With plans to stay in Sunnyvale for an extended period, I made the unconventional decision to sleep in my rental car. Fortunately, I had the convenience of Google’s free WiFi and access to Plug and Play’s bathroom facilities, making my stay feasible and comfortable enough for my unique journey.
After completing my first week at the Startup Camp, I had a pivotal meeting with Alireza Masrour, the overseer of technology investments and university camps. This meeting held the potential to shape the trajectory of my entrepreneurial endeavor, and I eagerly awaited the opportunity to share my idea and vision with him.
During our discussion, Alireza’s evident enthusiasm for my idea stemmed from his recognition of its significant potential and validity as a startup business model. He appreciated its feasibility, applicability, and meaningful impact, which further fueled our conversation and exploration of its possibilities. However, he raised a critical concern—I needed a co-founder to continue at the Startup Camp. Despite having a classmate who would be a perfect fit, she was committed to her path as an Army officer deploying to Qatar after graduation. Alireza explained that for the camp’s requirements, a co-founder needed to be fully dedicated to the cause and ideally possess technical expertise.
Feeling a mix of disappointment and determination, I accepted the reality of the situation. Without a co-founder, my stay at the Startup Camp was in jeopardy. However, Alireza extended a generous offer—I could remain for the next ten days and benefit from the invaluable training and mentorship the camp had to offer.
Returning to my car, I set out to explore potential solutions. I turned to Facebook, hoping to find old friends residing in the Bay Area. To my delight, I discovered that Carl Jones had recently made the move to the Valley. Without a moment’s hesitation, I reached out to Carl, realizing that this could be the chance to turn my idea into reality.
Reuniting with my long-time University of Florida classmate, Carl, was an absolute delight. We shared a mutual passion for Materials Science and Engineering and bonded over our love for pho and banh mi, making our friendship even more special.
As we reminisced, Carl fondly recalled our days in Dr. Knox Millsaps’ Aeronautics course, where I would show up in my crisp Navy whites, and we always sat up front, actively engaging with the material and asking all the good questions.
Those were truly memorable times, navigating the challenges of UF, NROTC, and Engineering classes together. Looking back, we both agreed that if given the chance, we wouldn’t change a thing about our journey.
When Carl inquired about my presence in sunny Sunnyvale, I shared my situation with the Entrepreneurs in Residency program at Plug and Play. They required a co-founder for my startup idea to continue with the residency, which led me to approach him with the opportunity. I was curious to know if he would be interested, knowing the value of having a co-founder who is not only skilled but also someone I trust and enjoy working with.
To my delight, Carl’s response was affirmative. Despite his busy schedule, he expressed eagerness to make time for this venture. We both recognized the importance of finding a co-founder who shares our vision and values, and in Carl, I had already found that ideal match.
Hi Alizera,
This week I met with my classmate from the University of Florida, Carl Jones, my friend for over 20 years.
Carl has extensive experience working with startups over the last eight years and lives in Palo Alto. Carl has agreed to become my co-founder of RUNINOut. Today, Carl and I presented at the EIR session and met with Tom Rice.
Both Carl and I will be at the check-in on Monday morning to meet with you to discuss the possibility of staying in Plug and Play Startup Camp through the 10-week program.
Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to talking with you on Monday. Please let us know what time is convenient to meet.
Sincerely,
Chito
* * *
Hi Alireza,
Mr. Chito Peppler has informed me that RUNIN Out was not selected for the upcoming PnP Startup Camp 2011. He also mentioned that you have allowed us to attend the first two weeks.
I would like to take that opportunity to join, and to meet you.
Regards,
Carl
Fortuitously, we were scheduled to present a demo of RUNINOut to the Entrepreneurs in Residency program the next day, and I immediately invited Carl to join me for this much-anticipated event. It seemed like a perfect opportunity to kickstart our partnership and showcase our collective potential.
The prospect of working together again after all these years filled us both with excitement and anticipation. With Carl by my side, I knew that we would make a formidable team, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead. Our shared passion for our field and our deep bond as friends made this partnership even more promising.
As we geared up for the demo, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the twists and turns that led me to this moment. Reconnecting with Carl and having the chance to embark on this entrepreneurial journey together felt like fate, and I couldn’t wait to see where this exciting path would lead us.
The experience taught me the importance of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of challenges. It also underscored the significance of genuine connections and seizing opportunities when they present themselves. Carl’s arrival in the Bay Area at just the right time was a serendipitous moment that could change the trajectory of my startup’s path.
Even though Alireza informed me that I needed a co-founder to stay at startup camp, he eventually shifted his stance.
* * *
Hi Carl,
Nice to meet you here. We had a short conversation on Friday about start up camp with Chito. Unfortunately we can not have RUNINOut for start up camp. Start up camp is mostly for the start ups who come from universities with a little working experience to learn from mentorship program. Your team has an extensive experience. But you are welcome to be part of Plug and Play community a place that we have over 250 start ups.
Best Regards,
Alireza
Fortuitously, we were scheduled to present a demo of RUNINOut to the Entrepreneurs in Residency program the next day, and I immediately invited Carl to join me for this much-anticipated event. It seemed like a perfect opportunity to kickstart our partnership and showcase our collective potential.
The prospect of working together again after all these years filled us both with excitement and anticipation. With Carl by my side, I knew that we would make a formidable team, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead. Our shared passion for our field and our deep bond as friends made this partnership even more promising.
As we geared up for the demo, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the twists and turns that led me to this moment. Reconnecting with Carl and having the chance to embark on this entrepreneurial journey together felt like fate, and I couldn’t wait to see where this exciting path would lead us.
The experience taught me the importance of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of challenges. It also underscored the significance of genuine connections and seizing opportunities when they present themselves. Carl’s arrival in the Bay Area at just the right time was a serendipitous moment that could change the trajectory of my startup’s path..
Just like Carl, I hadn’t seen Kelli since the early 90s while attending UF.
“Remember all the football games Kelli and the Gator Growl at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium? The student skits and the laser light shows were the bomb!”
“Yes, we had a blast at the Swamp. Also the Devil’s Millhopper sinkhole was my favorite place to find peace and quietness during our prayer times. The dripping water created a beautiful, relaxing ambience. Would love to go back.”
“Hahaha, and climbing all those stairs was quite a workout.”
“Yes those are precious memories that I’ll always cherish. Just like our Bible studies at North Central Baptist Church. Remember them as if it was yesterday.”
Then a long, silent pause. My smile had suddenly vanished. I looked at her uneasily. She didn’t maintain her gaze.
“I need to tell you something very important,” as she wiped her tear holding a tissue to her nose. “I’m going home to see the Lord, and I’m very sad that I won’t be able to see my sons grow up, get married and have kids.”
By now, her tears were flowing steadily. My eyes also had welled up and I was afraid I was at a loss for words.
“Oh my sweet Kelli. I’m extremely heart broken. You’re such an amazing woman and a special friend for over 20 years. I hope what you’re telling me is not true. I know that you will leave a great lasting legacy for your whole family.”
The next day, I woke up to a whimper as I lethargically got dressed for the Seattle Marathon. But I wouldn’t be disheartened. I would run the course for Kelli, keeping her foremost in my thoughts throughout the course. In the end, I was honored to present my two medals (Seattle and San Diego) to her two sons.
“Your sons will be very proud to call you Mom!”
“Thank you. You’ve always been a good friend to me.”
Then I hugged Kelli and her family tightly and boarded a bus to Vancouver as tears continued to flow “See you in Heaven! Save a seat for me there.”
The last sweet image of Kelli waving goodbye is forever inked in my mind.
