It seems like forever since I’ve written on the blog and I have definitely missed it! Once you stop, it’s easy to come up with excuses and continue to put it off another day. I struggle because I am on the computer most of the day and then the last thing I want to do is get on the computer at night. I want to be outside, be lazy, play with the dogs, exercise and enjoy time with my love. Work, time, energy-is there ever enough? All more excuses... so to heck with could’ve, would’ve, should’ve and fear. Here's my New Year’s blog and end of year recap a few months delayed:)
Although I may have been quiet online, 2015 went out with a bang!
Ainsley’s Angels of Florida had their first ever 1/2 marathon and set a high standard! Words can barely describe the flood of emotions that overwhelmed me on this incredible day! There were over 100 runners and 10 plus riders. This was my first time to push for a half and I was extremely nervous and anxious.
As soon as our wheels hit the pavement, my worries dissipated! This was a joyous event from start to finish! Everyone was excited and energetic to share in this inaugural event and the electricity was infectious! A smile spread across my face upon arrival and was pretty much permanent the rest of the day. Only one word-WOW! Jodi Stoner and the Angel’s army created an inspiring event that changed lives that day - especially mine!
Next up was the Lighthouse Loop 1/2 marathon with our besties, but first a surprise birthday party from Wendy’s parents—hello cupcakes:)
The Lighthouse Loop is a great event with ocean views, enthusiastic water stations, a lighthouse and a small bridge at the end to make sure you are awake after 12 miles of zero elevation;) Seriously, a top notch event in Port Orange and a post-race buffet to feed the city!
Close friends welcomed a precious baby girl into 2015 and another announced they are “Due in April".
A cupcake gender reveal party ensued—a girl is on the way:) Don’t drink the Clearwater water;)
Time to work off all the cupcakes—
cue the Wildhorse 1/2 marathon/never-ending race/walk/crawl.
OMG—I think we left someone behind, sound off...!
Shout out here to my Wildhorse B-tches as we now lovingly
refer to ourselves for conquering this ridiculously, challenging,
wildlife extravaganza and maze through the “real” Florida!
This adventure sealed our friendship girls:)
I got a run buddy just in time for Thanksgiving and ran my first race for her—so pumped! See
IRUN4. This girl motivates me every day. She has a wonderful spirit and generous heart and together we impact the world!
Following on the heels of Thanksgiving was the Space Coast (SC) marathon which truly was “out of this world”-would you expect anything less! I hope I do not blow SC's cover but this race is a hidden gem in Florida. Literally, 26 miles of a waterfront view and flat, flat, flat.
In addition to a fabulous course, the support along the route was spectacular as well. Lots of Princess Leia’s, Storm Troopers, Vader Chewie and on the second half-top shelf vodka and beer from the locals.
But nothing beats the pizza party and record setting bed-jump the night before to loosen up our legs for the big day;) Congrats to Angela and Anne for completing their first marathon-HUGE accomplishment!!!
Another unforgettable race and oh yeah, we all just signed up to do it again this November—may the “force” be with us!
Big excitement—our bestie’s daughter made the basketball team! Her first time to play and what growth we saw over the season—our girl gots skillz!!! We can’t wait for the 2016 season. In the meantime there is track and she’s made the first cut as of this posting!
Over the Christmas break I was able to return home and visit with friends and family.
I wish AR was a little closer for more quality time with my niece
and nephew.
Time flies when you travel and I am yearning for some peeps to come visit me (hint, hint).
This brings 2015 to a close; however, 2016 kept the momentum rolling!
First on the agenda, Ainsley’s Angels fearless leader, Jodi Stoner’s 100th half marathon. Yes, I just typed 100 half marathons. Please pick up your jaw and keep reading;)
Anticipation began to build for this spectacular day at the start of the New Year! All I could think about was this race so I cannot imagine the emotions surrounding the guest of honor!!! This was also an Ainsley’s event.
I was pushing for my second half marathon and two looming bridges stood in the way. It’s an out and back course so my dread at the only hills in Florida was times two! I gathered strength from the prior Ainsley’s half and knew it was going to be an amazing day! Boy was I wrong—the day was not amazing, it was nothing short of a miracle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We battled the elements of wind, cold, sand, wind, flying debris (think “Twister” movie) and did I mention 40 mph winds… but
WE persevered. Nothing was going to stop this Angel Army—we all ran hand-in-hand across the finish line.
I always think, WOW, this was the best race and then I run/push/am pulled by an Angel Athlete and it just gets better and better. Thank you Angel family—riders, cheer squad, runners, photographers, spouses, and friends. Your purpose, tenacity, bravery, kindness, generosity and downright heroism fuels me and influences lives at every single race! Who knew what I thought was giving would be so rich in receiving!
I’m still flying high from the 100th half and I’m not coming down anytime soon-watch out 2016!
Fast forward to April, 10th, 2016 - I just celebrated my one
year anniversary as an Angel at the Iron Girl race in Clearwater, FL. It’s hard to imagine life without the Angels
now as they have become an integral part of my life. 
I thought this endeavor would allow me to enjoy something I love and
give back. Reflecting on my time with
the Angels, I realize I am the lucky one who has been blessed (as Jodi
foreshadowed in our first communication). 
"Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing you have received, but only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage." -St. Francis of Assisi
