Thumbs Up Thursday..This one's for you Jenn....

Yesterday I was sitting here thinking about what I wanted to write about on my blog today and I couldn't help but feel like I wanted to share the story of my friend, and sorority sister, Jenn. So, I sent her a message to ask permission to share her story and she was more than agreeable, honored, I think was the word she used. So, with permission granted, I have instituted "Thumbs Up Thursday". Each Thursday, I will focus on the success of others.

This is Jenn in January 2009

photo credit: Jenn Davis
Jenn calls this photo "the wake up call that I needed to change something in my life". Jenn realized that she was turning to food to deal with her emotions and she knew she needed to change things so she could be happy and healthy for her family. Jenn started out trying to do different workouts at the gym. She enjoyed them but felt she needed something more and this is when her love for running was born. She started with the couch to 5K program and realized that she had a passion for running. She ran her first 5K on May 2, 2010 and finished it under 30 minutes. What an accomplishment. She loved running so much that she signed up for the 5K that was part of the Cleveland Marathon. Fast forward to the packet pick up for the 5K and Jenn realizes that she wants more and changes her entry from the 5K to the 10K! Jenn mentioned she was nervous but she successfully finished that race. Jenn has since run a few other races. I asked her if she was addicted (because we all know how addicting running can be) and she said yes and mentioned that she loves how she feels after a run and how she can clear her head out there and have a better day all around. I get it! She is currently training for a 1/2 marathon and has signed up for the Cleveland Marathon for next year! Jenn has mentioned to me on a few occassions that I inspire her but the truth is...Jenn inspires ME!! Her hard work and dedication amaze me each day and makes me realize we can do anything we set our mind to. Afterall, look how great she looks now in June 2010 (130 pounds lost)!


photo credit: Jenn Davis
Jenn has started a running blog of her own and I ask that you send some love, support, and good jobs her way! http://runjenn.blogspot.com/.
The best part of all of this is that we will be doing long runs together while training for the Cleveland Marathon. Jenn mentioned that she is excited and honored to run the marathon with me but again the truth is, I am honored that she would ask me to join her. There's a lot to be said for the bond between sisters! I am looking forward to crossing that finish line with her in May!
As you all know, I have a tag line that I end all of my blog posts with. Today, I am going to alter it just a little!
Keep running, you're simply the best, and Jenn, YOU inpsire ME!!