Run Jen Run

My kiddos and I at the Run Jen Run 5k in Charlotte, NC

Yes, I've been MIA from blogger land for a while now. Just so much going on and little time to sit down and write for pleasure these days. So, a bit of a recap of recent events...

Last weekend the kids and I made the trek to Charlotte, North Carolina to participate in a 5k race presented by the Go Jen Go Foundation, an organization that supports cancer patients and their families in North and South Carolina. I learned about the foundation from my sister-in-law, who is friends with the founder and her family. And because I share the founders name, my SIL would send me Go Jen Go T-shirts and other items to keep my spirits up during my cancer treatments. 

I signed up earlier in the year for the 5k, hoping I could meet Jen Pagani, the founder, whom I had only been in contact with via email. Unfortunately, Jen lost her six-year battle with cancer on Feb. 2. 

My sister-in-law and I getting ready for the big race! I actually have a lot of hair these days, but it was so cold that morning, I wasn't about to lose my cozy-warm hat.

So, I felt more compelled than ever to participate in the race. Even after spraining my ankle just a few weeks prior  (Yes, I tripped over my kids' snow boots by the back door and fell down some steps), I was determined to drive down there. I didn't run like I had hoped, mostly walked the route, but I was so glad to have been there to celebrate Jen's legacy and be among many other survivors. And it was very special to have my kids join me, since they are two of the biggest reasons I was determined to kick cancer's butt.

On a random note, I'm headed to New York City soon for a conference and would love some suggestions on where to eat, places to visit, etc. I know the list is endless, but I'm always open to ideas, especially from my fabulous blogger friends. Suggestions?

We have "sprung" forward friends - here's hoping that spring truly is here to stay and that this long, miserably cold, snowy and icy winter will soon retire. 

Have a great week!