Why, oh why do I wait so long to finish blogs??? Oh yes, I know, I like to relive events that are so “epic” as my son puts it. So, without further delay, let’s go back to Pittsburgh for the next installment of Just a Short Run, Sparkstyle. After having a delightful meal with my dear friends at the pub, we went back to the hotel to meet some great people. It was CRAZY!!!! I had NO idea how many people I “knew” that would be there. After being introduced to a bunch of people I went upstairs to “bump into” Dani….that girl is a total gem – I adore her, and couldn’t wait to have a bear hug. She was getting ready when I got to her hotel room, but when she came out I totally got the biggest squishy EVER!!!


After chatting with the girls, downstairs we went to join up with the party. It was so odd seeing John Parker….it was like he and I were just bumping into each other like we do on a regular basis!!! LOVED that, he is such a wonderful man, I am so blessed to have been able to meet him in person. What was really funny was when I met Tammy and Gail. I totally know these ladies on facebook, and have chatted with them a bit on Sparkpeople, but NEVER made the connection with the names. I introduced myself and said, “I don’t think I know you but I am….” They laughed and said…”But we know you!!” It wasn’t until the next day that I finally figured it out. The picture with the Canadian’s told me the story. Tammy and Gail have the most wonderful spirits – I could chat with them all day and never get bored. But then Gail is a maritimer, and my hubby is a Newfy…hmmm!!!

It was so much fun getting to know everyone – I couldn’t get enough of Bobby, Anne, Judi, Pen and Roo, Nancy, Deej, Suezette…..the list is so long, I’m sorry I can’t get everyone in it. Suffice it to say that there was not 1 one person at this gathering that I would not LOVE to spend a day with and just chat – isn’t that crazy about a gathering of people where you only really knew 4 other people???? Oh yes, I almost forgot…Tracy – wow, I have “known” her for so long, and when meeting her was AWESOME!!! Tracy, you have such a beautiful soul – I LOVED chatting with you, and hope to see you again.

OK, I have to move on…to my most favorite part of the evening….my special surprise!!! My sista from another mista Anne of a schwack of kidlets and I plotted for a couple of weeks before JASR to surprise the masses together. She was driving in through some pretty fantastic storms, so I was texting her throughout the night. Finally she arrived – I remember seeing her, pushing Bobby into the room with the food so he wouldn’t and bolting through the back door….dang, that was the best-darned hug I have ever gotten. Anne…I love you like crazy chicka – you parent like me, you think similar to me, and we both value the same things….we are kindred spirits. Bringing you in was sooooooo cool – Deej had guessed, but I threw her off…everyone was totally surprised, It was an amazing moment! Another reason that this JASR was the most amazing event for me!!!

After we chatted for a wee bit, I got a drive back to my hotel for some sleep (yeah, that’s what I’m gonna call it!!). In the AM I am gonna run a ½ marathon that I totally was NOT trained for!! More on the event soon…LOL, gotta drag out the drama over MONTHS!!!
Love ya!
Trish