Dear Everyone…

Dear Everyone–

It’s truly a remarkable feeling to find dozens and dozens of comments and praise related to my race report. You were all very kind, very invigorating, and each and every one of you gave me a special feeling right here in my nostrils.

Since 2003, I’ve been working on self-improvement, including self-esteem, weight loss, education, and all kinds of internal fixes. The marathon was a kind of crown to those efforts, a tip of the hat. But the best part of it, to me, is that the marathon’s just the last dregs of 2004. Wait’ll you see what’s ahead.

I am blessed by everyone who reads and comments and writes me little private emails, etc. Sometimes, I get bogged down and don’t comment on all the posts I read, but I read your stuff daily. I’m inspired by your efforts.

I’m further blessed by an amazing wife, who is so supportive, it’s silly. I really couldn’t have achieved half of what I’ve done without her. I know. I’ve tried. She’s such a powerhouse. Have I mentioned she’s dumped 75 pounds of weight through her own superhero efforts?

In 2005, I’ve got a few goals. I want to race in about two dozen events, including some ultra-distance races, but also stirring in a mix of “fun” things, too. I plan to write the book I’ve threatened to write for the last few years on my self-improvement efforts. I also intend to be at my all-time goal weight by August of 2005 (but truly aiming for June).

I’ll do all of the above with your support. Superheroes all.

Last thing: I forgot to mention that I took my busted shoelace shoe to EMS, an outdoors company up this way. They said, “Hmm. I don’t know how to repair that, either. Hang on a sec.” Moments later, they came back with the Salomon XA Comp XCR trail running shoe, which is the same as mine, but the step up. “We’ll send back your shoes to Salomon, and give you these for the difference. Is $19.00 okay?” I tried to beg off. “I really just wanted a shoelace.” They shrugged. “Sorry. Best we can do is give you brand new trail running shoes.” Well, okay.

So, if you’ve got some outdoorsy purchases to make, I tell you, Eastern Mountain Sports stands behind everything they do 105%. I’m blown away by the way I’ve been treated since going there. Plug plug.

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