Sunday, April 3, 2016


It starts with one. That one friend. This is Patty. We met in January 2013 after signing up for the Sports Backers YMCA 10K training team. She's an occupational therapist. I'm a physical therapist. I was scared to death to run 6 miles. Patty knew I could. She, more than anyone, has kept me motivated on this running journey which began in 2012 training for my first 5k, the Ashland Harvest Run. I needed a fitness motivator after losing weight, and running was it.


If you had asked me 10 years ago if I would ever be a runner, I would have laughed in your face. Seriously. I have asthma. My lungs are not meant for running. I was overweight. I was stressed. I was tired. Getting myself on a path to wellness taught me many life lessons, but I still needed convincing that I was a runner.

And then you meet that friend who motivates you and disputes your self doubt. She whispers.... "you can run a half marathon.' And then you do. Again. "You can run a marathon." And then you do.

And your circle of sole sisters expands, a strong web of support woven through multiple training teams, shared time on the roads, sweat, tears, races, and hugs... and maybe a brunch here and there.



Here's our core crew in the corral just before the Shamrock Half Marathon in 2015. Denice, Laura, Patty, and Sarah. I love these girls so much!

Sometimes, you don't even really know who you inspire when you choose to become more fit, including my husband, who is now an avid Crossfitter. He even ran the Ukrop's Monument 10K with me last year.


I hope to share with you a bit about this journey of running and finding myself. I hope my friends will lend their stories, too.

Until next time.
Anne