Dear Jen,

This morning I got on the stationary bike. I hope to run today, but my left foot has been hurting me. Spencer taught me some new stretches.

After my bike ride this morning, I stood up and stretched. And did you know? I never stretch without thinking of you. Wanna know what I think?

I think stretching hurts. It wouldn't if I'd do it more faithfully. You love the after-stretch, so I should be more like you.

You also decorate children's doors for Valentine's Day. I should be more like you.

You worry about your calling and if you're doing it right. I should be more like you.

You celebrate the fact that your husband got his dream job, and you teach your children to celebrate. I should be more like you.

You stick to your healthy choices long enough to lose 40 pounds. I should be more like you.

I should be more like you.

You are a cherished friend.

Tag #1--Things I Like About Me

This idea came from Jen, who sort of got the idea from me. (Isn't it great how we help each other?)

I like that I...

...laugh easily. Unlike Jen, I am getting scowl lines, but I promise they are just from concentrating. I hope I get lots of laugh/smile lines, because I love to laugh!

...have empathy for people, even if it means that I cry a lot. Joy or sorrow, nobody cries alone.

...have dark brown hair. OK, it's going lighter (no! it's NOT gray!), but I've always like my hair color. I know this is a little shallow, but I'm not exactly a super-model; I think it's OK to like my hair color. :)

...can organize things. You wouldn't always know it from the condition of our home, but I can organize time, events, etc., etc. This has allowed me opportunities to work with fantastic people, lead organizations, and keep my sanity.

...am confident. People may think I'm cocky or overbearing. If that's what you think, I am truly sorry. It's just that I can think for myself, act for myself, decide for myself, and express myself. If you don't want to know, you better not ask me! The good news is that I can take all of this from you, too; and I can agree to disagree with you without being rude or angry.

Tag! You're it!