Talk about PROUD!

I talked to my friend, Shalaina today on the phone. No matter how good Skype is at making you feel close to the person to whom you are speaking (you know, because you can see them as well as hear them), there is nothing quite like a phone call to remind you of your regular old life back home. Because we don't Skype at home...we call. And we love it.

Anyway, Shalaina is all geared up for the Run Ottawa race (image from and info at www.ncm.ca). She's doing the 10km on Saturday, May 29, and is starting her remarkable 12-week training schedule on Monday. Shalaina has two children, a full time job, and is going it alone. She's remarkable. I think what is most remarkable is that she stays so happy, it's infectious, and will always pick up on the subtle hints people give that let her know they need a Big Cookie from Starbucks.

So here is my challenge:
if she can do it, YOU can do it.

And I'm taking the challenge.

Matt and I have planned a month at the gym: Monday through Friday, from 6 until 7 every morning. I'll still run in the evening until the 40 days have expired, and then...I'll keep it going. I'll run as if I'm training. That means not everyday (phew!) and on a varying schedule (that, for me, will be very flexible): some days will be hill runs; others short runs; and on Sundays, a long run to teach my body to be ready for a long one come "race day". And I'll race with her...transcontinentally.

To feel close to those from whom I'm far away, I have to talk to them, hear what they're going through, let them know that I support them as much as possible, doing what little I can from here. They are amazing to me: they are supportive and encouraging and constantly happy for me despite my being too far away. So what I can give back to help lend the same support, I will. In SELF, I'm pretty sure this falls into the Love category :)

I'm with you, sister.