OK-not day one, but the first day I had time to post

If you are reading this, you know I am training to run the Long Branch NJ Marathon in May 2008.

10 REASONS FOR THE SELF-INFLICTED PUNISHMENT FOR A NOBLE CAUSE:

1. FOR LORI: Lori is such an inspiration! She endured 8 rounds of very powerful chemo with grace and maintained her wonderful sense of humor. I would hope that if I were in that situation, I would be half as strong and positive. She just finished her last round! WAY TO GO LORI! This is the real reason! I am running with Team in Training in honor of Lori. Check out the links at the bottom of this blog to read Lori's story and to see how you can help!

2. FOR JOHN: Last year while training for the Philadelphia marathon, I stepped in a pothole, turned my ankle and tore one of the tendons in my right ankle (OUCH!). Of course, being the smart person/health care provider that I am, I ran on it for another month. It has taken me a year to rehab, but now I am able to run pain free again. So why not train for another 26.2 mile event... John could not be happier! He says I am a completely different person when I am running. I wonder what he means by that??? He does say it with a smile...

3.4.5.6. FOR ETHAN EMMA LIAM AND MAGGIE: OK. Cheap way to rack up the reasons. I wanted to come up with 10...Honestly, they are the best thing that ever happened in my life! I am thankful every second that I am with them! They are truly wonderful people! They are also a full cheering section for the last few miles!

7. FOR AMY: Because Amy and I promised we would run one-and I know she will soon! Last February my running partner and friend Amy Freeze left Philadelphia to take the job of a lifetime and be near her family (You go AMY!). Since then, I have struggled to find someone that is fool hearted enough to meet me in the mornings to run. I have since started running with the pup. While he talks less than Amy, he is pretty funny and never calls out due to the weather:)

8.9. For KAI and MADDY: For those that do not know him, our puppy Kai is the biggest pain in the neck! He really gives patient old Maddy a run for her money. To her credit-she has a never ending pool of patience and love for him and she really puts him in his place when he needs it. KAI must have some sort of extreme exercise daily or he literally eats anything in his path. Thank God Maggie is quick on her feet! We have lost countless shoes and even a sofa cushion! We have been ready to give him away more than once-but can never do it because he really wants to be part of our family and to fit in (SOB SOB). More on Kai another day...

10. QUEER AS IT IS, for ME: I turn 40 this year and have always wanted to run a full marathon. I know you are shocked because I really look (act) much younger than 40 but it is true. Do you think John looks younger than I do?

Thanks for your support-both financial for TNT and spiritual! Think of me on those mornings when it is tough to get out of your warm beds!