Help Tanya raise money

A year ago, in Marathon, TX (Yes, really!), I reconnected with dear childhood friends.  Over long desert hikes, a freak snowstorm, epic scrabble tournaments and a few Coors Lights, I was convinced that I could and should run a marathon.  

I came home and immediately started working with a trainer.  I knew the year would fly by and I wanted to start while my enthusiasm was fresh.  Since then, I have trained in blazing heat and rain and snow.  I have run on holidays and vacations.  I have learned the importance of stretching and resting.  I have run road races and trail races with my little crew of committed runners.  I have discovered that I am so much stronger than I thought I could be.

Now, the big race is swiftly approaching.  As I finish up my training, I think a lot about why I am running.  As I push myself through the long miles there are three things that will carry me through:

1.  I am running in memory of my dear friend, Jennifer.  We had planned to run a marathon together for her 50th birthday.  Before we could do it, she was diagnosed with cancer.  She fought bravely and maintained her beautiful, generous spirit and sense of humor right up to the end.  I will think of her beauty and her strength and her laugh.

2.  I am running in honor of my friends and family who have been so supportive throughout this journey.  They have cheered me on and helped me stay motivated.

3.  I am running on behalf of Spice Field Kitchen.  It is a small Cleveland charity committed to educating future generations about the food system.  I am proud to serve on the board and perpetually inspired by the incredible staff as they work to empower healthy lives and thriving communities through hands on culinary and agricultural programming.

I humbly ask that you take a moment to make a pledge to support me.  

Can you give $26.20 in recognition of the 26.2 miles?

Can you give $130?  $10 for each month I've trained?

Can you give $791?  $1 for each mile I've run in training (so far)?

I will appreciate a gift of any size, and I know that Spice Field Kitchen will appreciate it and put it to great use!