A Ride, A Legacy, and a Life Remembered

May Blog – Honoring My Dad

May is a meaningful month for me. My father’s birthday was May 6th, and even though he passed away in 2016, not a day goes by that I don’t think about him. He was more than just a great dad—he was an encourager, a man of quiet strength, and the kind of person who believed in showing up, even when no one else did.

I’ve carried his legacy into many parts of my life: as a mom, a wife, a Realtor, and someone who values hard work, community, and perseverance. And recently, I found myself revisiting something that reminded me just how much of his influence is woven into my story.

Back in 2015, I did something a little wild: I rode my bike across the United States with Bike & Build, a nonprofit that blends cross-country cycling with affordable housing work. I chronicled the whole experience on a blog: bikemary.blogspot.com. Looking back on those posts—especially the one from December 26, 2015—I see my dad’s fingerprints all over that journey.

He always encouraged me to “go for it,” even if it scared me. That trip was hard. I had 14 flat tires, got sick in Kansas, and climbed Monarch Pass on the 4th of July. But every pedal stroke reminded me that I was doing something meaningful—and that I wasn’t alone. My dad wasn’t physically there, but his voice, his values, and his belief in me were with me every mile.

Now, as a Realtor and a mom, I often think of that ride as a metaphor. There are long climbs, unexpected setbacks, and flat tires—but there are also amazing views, incredible people, and the satisfaction that comes from finishing what you start. I’m so extremely grateful for that life experience because I believe it not only made me who I am today, but also DEFINES who I am as a wife, mom, agent, and believe it or not-an adventurer.

So this May, I honor my dad by living the way he taught me: keep going, help others, and take the time to be present in your community. Whether I’m handing over the keys to a new homeowner, scheduling appointments with clients, showing up for a CrossFit class, or chasing Lou Lou around the living room—I know he’s still with me.

If you’re missing someone this month too, know that you’re not alone. Their legacy lives on in the way we live, love, and keep pedaling forward.