The Jeffries Family

Sometimes the stories I write stick with me long after they're finished.  This is one of them.  I'm not sure if it's because Anne is around my age, 42, or because her sister is my friend Joidee or because I see my own daughters when I look at this picture of Anne with hers.  Whatever the reason, this story has touched me profoundly.  It's so cliche to say each day is a gift, but how else do we describe it?  It's hard to treat each day like it's our last when the house is messy and the kids are acting obnoxious or when money feels tight.  It's hard to feel like every moment is precious when so many of them are wrapped up in the mundane acts of life.  Cleaning toilets isn't all that amazing, is it?  But hearing Anne's story has been a reminder to find the precious among the mundane.  Click on the link below to read her story and try to look for the joy a little harder today.  

Iron Anne

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Coach Mom

My mom and me after Boston 2010 (photo taken by my 7 year old- forgive the angle)

As I was touching up an article about how running has made me a better mother, I realized the role my own mom has played in my running life.  Nearly every picture I have at various races was taken by my mother.

I am lucky to have a mom who cheers me on at every race, whether she can be there or not.  I may be over 40, but I'm never too old to brag about, apparently.  And for that I'm grateful.

So, for Mother's Day (shouldn't it be at least a whole week?) I've tried to capture all the ways my mom has made me a better runner.  She's not a runner herself, but she's taught me more than any running coach has.

Click on this page then on the link provided to read more about my Coach Mom.

My Mom Makes Me a Better Runner

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