For 20 years, The Finish Line was the locally-owned sporting goods store in Springfield. I remember getting Russell hoodies from there as well as new tennis shoes annually. Any time I needed a new JV letter sewn to my Kickapoo letter jacket, The Finish Line did the work. (I can still wear that jacket.) Whatever clothing I needed to play whatever sport was in season, my family went to see Dick at The Finish Line and left with a smile, because he had a fantastic sense of humor.
Even though the store closed more than 20 years ago, Dick still misses it.
“We weren’t making any money and I was working 70 hours a week, but I loved it. I miss the people.”
Dad crossed paths with Dick a couple days ago while recycling leaves and told him about this quest-or-journey-or-whatever-you-want-to-call-it and Dick expressed interest in participating.
Dick is a Cardinals fan and loves sports. He’s a season ticket holder to pretty much everything the MSU Bears play and thoroughly enjoys cheering them on. He’s good friends with Art (Day #25) who had picture perfect catch-playing weather in late January.
We had no such weather luck today.
Gray skies and gusty winds and I’m not sure I know any sport that would have been fun to play outside. We got thirty throws in before KC scored their first touchdown.
Today is a perfect day to participate in sports vicariously.
Only 29 catch playing days remain in 2018.
The Finish Line is in sight.
Just like Dick’s former customers who still miss the store, once the calendar turns 2019, I’ll miss the adventures this year has brought.
I am so thankful for all the people.
