Q: When did you first join R4R, and how did you hear about us?
A: In late fall of 2007, my friend Kathy, Rachelle Hightower’s mom, invited me to train for a half marathon with her. I thought it was a crazy idea, but decided to go for it. I started the training program, under the guidance of Coach Will and crew. And 9 weeks later, finished the Shamrock’n Half Marathon. It was cold and rainy that day, but Will’s words of inspiration rang in my head, “Get out there, you’re not made of sugar!”
Q: Describe yourself in 25 words or less.
A: Wow….well, I like to think of myself as a friendly person. I try to be helpful. I am a big-time animal lover. I try not to take myself too seriously. I’m fun loving and loyal. (That’s all I’ve got for now 😊)
Q: What’s your favorite Movin’ Into Life activity?
A: I enjoy loooonnnnnngggg walks and hiking (with some running peppered in) with friends (emphasis on “with friends”).
Q: How do you like to spend your free time?
A: I enjoy traveling, reading, spending time with my family and friends, and trying new restaurants.
Q: What’s something that most people don’t know about you?
A: Nice try…..if I told you, then you’d know. My lips are sealed. 😊 But, if you take a loooooonnnnggg walk with me, you’ll probably hear about it.
Q: What has been your most unusual or interesting job?
A: That’s a tough one. Since I knew, when I was 7, that I wanted to be a teacher, I don’t think that counts as unusual. It certainly was a very interesting 32-year ride though. When I was in grad school at the University of Madrid, I did work as a tutor for the 3M Company. My “students” were executives and my job was to help them with their English writing skills. I guess that’s the most unusual job that I had. Or maybe it was when I worked for the CA State Department of Justice as a clerk typist, updating peoples’ rap sheets.
Q: What has been your proudest moment since being part of the R4R family?
A: I don’t know that I can narrow this down to one moment. I am proud each time I cross the finish line. I have 37 half marathons, a dozen 10Ks, and even a Sprint Triathlon (yikes) under my belt, thanks to Runnin’ for Rhett!
Q: How would you describe your R4R experience to a child?
A: Well, before I retired, I did bring the R4R experience to my school for a few years. I used to share my R4R stories with the kids. Being a part of this group has given me the confidence to set lofty goals and accomplish them. It and has brought me some of my best friendships EVER. The power of friends is invaluable…we encourage and support each other. That’s a gift for life.
Q: Anything else you’d like to share?
A: It might sound dramatic, but R4R has been life-changing for me. The support and encouragement that I have gotten have carried me through challenging times. And who can’t use more of that in their lives?
