Jumpin' Off the Edge

2K13. The year I found my voice and began a transformation. Yet rather than blog about my year, I made a movie.  I was telling my sister about being a bit down in the dumps on my birthday because my date cancelled on me and things didn’t go as planned with my girls. She responded with, “That’s because you didn’t go to the person you can always count on. You.”  I have been thinking about that a lot since she said it. My movie is one of love. Love for family, friends, students, strangers, and most importantly, me. You see, it is important to celebrate the ones we love. The pictures speak for themselves. If you listen closely, the songs do as well. Each one chosen for a specific purpose. You’re the Reason – Awhile back Patti gave me the song and told me it reminded her of our relationship. It made me cry. I cried again today when I chose it realizing that even with the change in our family dynamics, my children give me what I need to soar. Walk -  “I’m learning to wal

On October 27, I crossed the finish line of the Marine Corps Marathon. I know many would like to hear all about it. Words would not do the experience justice. There is no way to convey the emotions in the days leading up to the big race. Time spent at Walter Reed Hospital with three very special Wounded Warriors. Meeting the man that Sean helped save when he hit an IED. Loneliness and fear the night before because of no one to celebrate with at the finish line. The anticipation of the starting line. Running through the blue mile reading every single one of the displayed names of men and women who have died in this war. The tears that overtook me at mile 24. Woody’s voice playing in my head. Crossing the finish line and feeling at the peace celebrating alone.  (My celebrating came the next day with my students.) My students spend more time with me than anyone else. I kept them informed of the entire marathon journey. They supported me with posters, cards, and m