What are your goals?:

My long term goal is to still be active in running, swimming, and biking a year from now. I want it to be part of my life, not just a faze.

My short term goal is to complete the Buffalo Creek ½ marathon.

What motivates you?:

Feeling great and being healthy is a big motivator.

When I need some more motivation, I remember back to early February, when I couldn't even run the length of Victory Church without stopping and gasping for breath.  That makes me smile and keeps me going.  Also, all the encouragement from Joella, and the many run club members always gives me motivation to want to come back and keep running.  

I have to mention my friend Wendy, who knows I hate getting out of bed early on Saturdays and Sundays.  She always motivates me on the weekends with a baggie of energy bark and an early morning phone call! 

What's your favorite food?

I love eggplant.  (I know - strange choice!)

What's your favorite song, band or music to listen to when exercising?

I pretty much like any music I can sing along to.  I especially love disco, 80's big hair bands, and 70's rock.

If you could pick one athlete to talk to or workout with, who would it be and why?

I would definitely pick Joella Baker.  She just really seems to enjoy training and competing and I find that dedication to be contagious.  She also doesn't let living with Lupus stop her from being active and competitive. I find that very inspirational. I think she is an incredible athlete, and I want to learn all I can from her.        

What is your favorite sports drink and energy fuel?

I don't drink any sports drinks. (Am I suppose to?)  I mostly drink plain water.  I also like milk a lot. 

If you compete, what is the one race or competition you would like to do at least once?  What is your favorite race you've competed in?

I would like to do the MS 150, and I would like to complete a triathlon someday.

My favorite race would be my very first ½ marathon.  My daughter, Nicole, talked me in to walking the 2009 Flying Pig ½ Marathon in Cincinnati.  We had a lot of fun, and it gave me the confidence to try other activities - like running!

List some of your major athletic or health accomplishments? 

Being able to run for more than 5 minutes is my biggest athletic accomplishment ever!

I have also lost 27.8 pounds.  (It should also be noted that Stacy recently won a weight loss competition at her office and received $200.  Incredible job Stacy!)

 What are some of your biggest challenges with staying fit?

Wow - there are so many!  First, finding the perfect sports bra has been a big challenge.  I am still looking, but I have some leads!   Also, never being athletic and not knowing exactly how to run or swim is challenging - who knew you had to keep your head in the water when swimming?  And of course the biggest challenge - making time and juggling work, family, and other obligations is always difficult.  Luckily all these challenges can be overcome!     

 Anything else you would like to add?

I have to thank all the wonderful people I have met through the run club, Everyone is so helpful and motivating.  I know I would have given up long ago if I did not have so much support and encouragement from everyone.  Joella - thanks for all your patience and for helping me to see myself as an athlete!