Cartwheels, kegs and Catherine's longest run yet!

The past few weeks have been a blur of fundraising/training activity!!! Thanks to Jenny and Amit for hosting a fabulous barbeque a few weekends ago in honor of both my 27th birthday and of my race efforts. The weather was beautiful, the burgers off the sleek new grill were delish and the company was fantastic! Thanks to an enthusiastic and creative round of fundraising "challenges", the total raised that day was $357!!! Thank you to all of you who gave so generously. And a special thanks to Brendan Sweeney who's pockets seemed to floweth over. (Don't worry, I performed all kinds of silly and surprising feats...including cartwheel after cartwheel...to earn the donations! There is video somewhere.) We enjoyed an appearance by two of my teammates, Kelly who ran 14 miles the day before, and Nadine, my fearless and upbeat mentor. And Baby David Calhoun even came and hung out with his family...it was so fun to meet him! For those of you who were not there, be assured, there is more fun on the horizon.

In other recent events I ran 7 miles on Saturday! This is the farthest I have ever run in one stretch, and MAN do I feel good about it! About halfway through the run I decided that my coach was right and that I should purchase new running shoes (I bought Mizuno's with arch supports today). However, there is something empowering about passing insanely "in shape" people on the outside track at Green Lake, and knowing that they took notice that you didn't stop after one or two laps. I feel that I have finally gotten on board with a training program and that my body is fully cooperating. Even the high school cross country boys told me to "bring the heat!" Oh, I brought it.

Now, for my next challenge. I have to figure out how to convince my body not only that running long distances on Saturdays is fun...but also to wake up at 6:30am to do so. For anyone who knows me and knows how much I love to sleep. You understand that this is a monumental challenge. I'm looking for running buddies, encouragement and donations to keep me going!!!