Many of you know this guy…
He swims, runs, and bikes every day on the island. I think everyone has seen him at one time or another. Some of you see him three or four times a day, 10 or 20 miles from the first place you passed him!
Mike has been an inspiration to many over the past decade that we’ve lived here. People come up to me all the time and tell me how his consistency has inspired them in their own lives.
Mike is my husband, and he’s not into being in the spotlight. He’s especially quiet about birthdays, but today is a milestone birthday for him, and I’ve decided to step out and celebrate him more publicly by asking you to leave a little comment below (or more privately by emailing me at edeekulper@gmail.com) to tell him how he has inspired you. (He’s not on social media.)
Sometimes it’s important to do these kinds of things – I’m sure the encouragement he receives in return will outweigh his tendency to keep things quiet. I will read anything you write to him tonight.
Thank you!!
And yes, he is also “the shirtless runner” you see out there on cold winter days. His metabolism is through the roof!
Happy Birthday Mike!
You are inspiring running about the island with a happy smile. You share birthday with Mike Parnell and Wendy Shinstine. Itβs wonderful to be around folks who are good parents and family men!!
Mat God give you energy yo continue.
Barbara Laursen
Thank you so much for your kind words, Barb!!
Happy Significant Birthday, Mike! I frequently see you, more often shirtless than not, when I and my little white dog are out on our daily morning walks. I’m not quite as intrepid as you – snow keeps us indoors – but I’m a few decades older than you. π See you on the trails.
HaHa!! Thank you Marsha!!! Mike shirtless is so common that I would love to someday see him in a suit! Ha! π
Very happy birthday and great health and joy as you are out enjoying yourself every day!
Thank you SO much, Cindy!!!
I’ve known Mike casually for quite a few years. Being a cyclist myself, I have always been inspired by his dedication to fitness. He is unfailingly friendly & although performing Herculean (to me) feats, I never have had the feeling he was looking for glory or recognition. He should be a model for Nike as he always “just does it”. Then I found out he was working with kids, coaching & encouraging them to run. What a guy!
I know this is supposed to be about Mike, but i have to say the two of you together are my idea of a power couple & Orcas is lucky to have you
Wow, thank you Pam!! Golly, I’m blushing. π Your kind words were so appreciated, and Mike was on Cloud 9.
Mike- you are a wonderful human being and a great mentor and inspiration for so many kids and adults on this island! Happy birthday!
.. warmest,
Stephanie & eric
Thank you so much, Stephanie and Eric!! Everyone’s comments made his day!
Wow, thank you so much, all of you!!! I read these messages to Mike and he feels so humbled and grateful to you all!!!! So kind of you all to take the time to say these things to him.
Wishes to Mike for many happy birthdays in future, more wishes yet for grasping those moments ahead, in a quiet way, that connect us all. Bike on bro!
Thank you Andy!!