9 half marathons completed. #10 in sight!

#1 Disneyland Half Marathon 09.04.11

In just a few days I will make my way to the start line of my 10th half marathon.
You read that correct, 10!

In a span of less than 2 years I have ran across 9 half marathon start and finish lines. And I can't wait to make my way to number 10.

What started as a journey to cross something off my life list, to do something in memory of my dad, and to take part in something far bigger than myself-- has turned into something indescribable.

#2 Nike Women's Half Marathon 10.15.11

My journey to these races is one that I can't fully describe, but what I can say, is that it's a journey that has changed my life.

#3 Tinkerbell Half Marathon 01.29.12

I couldn't have made my way through all of this training and races  without the support and love from my family and friends.
The people that have been there before this new passion for running came about. The people that have been there all my life. The people that were there by my side through my dad's battle with cancer. TEAM CELERA. They continue to support me, my brother, and my sister, through our events. Whether its through donations to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, encouraging words, or by cheering at events. I know that they are our biggest supporters. Thank you Team Celera. Thank you for keeping my dad's memory alive and sharing in my journey.

#4 Pasadena Rock n' Roll 02.19.12

My mom has been our biggest cheerleader, through this whole journey. She is there at finish lines holding sweaters, flip flops, and signs of encouragement. She has been there this whole time and even went with me to my very first Team in Training Kick Off event. And from that moment, I think we both knew how incredible it would be to be part of such an inspiring group. So, thanks mom, for being there on the start of this crazy journey, and continually supporting us through every event,
every start line, every finish line, and every moment in between.

Of course I can't forget my 2nd family. The people that have shared the trails with me. The people I have ran miles upon miles with. The people I have sweat with, shed tears with, laughed with.. my Team in Training family. Thanks Team, for getting me to places I never thought possible. Thank you Coaches, Support Staff, TNT Staff,  Mentors, Captains, Mentees, and Fellow Teammates. You have made all my races absolutely incredible, even ones not signed up with the Team, we still come together as ONE. You have made the journey and the training so incredibly worthwhile. And you have helped me keep the focus and mission alive-- everyday. I would never have imagined I would be running my 10th half marathon. But it is here. And I thank you for being by my side through the many painful and most joyful miles. You have enriched my life and have made me a better person!

Here is to Half Marathon #10. In DC! Surrounded by my fellow purple people. Here is to a Cure for a Cancer. Here is to a race run, in memory of my dad. Here is to his spirit, his smile, and his love.