Dear Jeff

Today, I started a journey.

Today was day 1 of training for a half marathon.

I'm not the greatest with recognizing my own accomplishments, giving myself credit, or feeling proud of myself, so this is my attempt at putting some thoughts down - in the style of a letter that I am writing to myself.

To be read on May 6th

Dear Jeff,

I want you to take a few minutes and reflect on what you just accomplished.

Over the past 3 months, you ran over 200 miles. Put that in perspective. You ran from Chicago to Indianapolis. From NYC to DC. From Seattle to Portland. You went out running 48 times - in snow, in rain, in cold, in heat - and the pavement became your best friend.

You thought about your future, you thought about your past. You shared stories you've never told anyone. You've recalled memories you've long forgotten. You've spent countless hours pushing yourself so you can reach a goal you set for yourself, but never knew you'd obtain.

You just crossed the finish line of your first half marathon!

There have been so many people in your life that have said you can't do it. People have put you into categories because of your weight, and they placed limits on you. Doctors have told you that you shouldn't be running. Time and time again, you have been told to quit. But you didn't listen.

Instead, you listened to your friends and family that always believed in you. You clung onto the words of inspiration. You turned to them when you wanted to give up on yourself. They wouldn't let you quit. They wouldn't let you fail.

Now, every time you look at your medal, I want you to think of the journey you just had - all of the pain, anxiety, joy, and success - and I want you to smile. Because when it was looking like you wanted to throw in the towel, sit on the couch, take a day off, and take the easy way out... you didn't. You earned this, and nobody can take it away from you.

...and I am SO proud of you.