About Grannie Frannie

As a child, I was uncoordinated -couldn't run fast, throw or hit a ball. So what do I do?  I Joined the Army.

I still can't do anything with a ball - but in Hawaii, I got interested in running the Honolulu Marathon. I semi-trained but found other things to do as a single 20 something than long runs on Sunday. As time went on, I met my husband Steve and had 3 children Jennifer, 32, Christopher, 30, and Scott, 28(ages as of 8/14)

We both retired from the Army. I finished nursing school and put on about 20 pounds. In 2002, I needed to get back in shape and lose weight. I started running again.

Goal: the Honolulu Marathon which I ran in 2003.

Over the last 12 years, I have finished 7 marathons, over 30 half marathons, and 15 triathlons of different distances.

Now I am in a different phase of life. Steve, my husband of 30 years was killed in a motorcycle accident on October 15, 2011.

The things that keep me going are family, really good friends, and my running. Since Steve has died, I have continued running.  It helps keep me sane and focused.  I continue running half marathons, and even finished my first Half IronMan.

I keep busy with work. And I also have 5 grandchildren now who help occupy my time.  I have even made the decision the remodel the house where Steve and I raised 3 children.  It was always small - but with so much stuff that I am just not ready to part with yet, I need more space.  Steve and I had talked about renovating for many years - but just didn't do it.  Right after his death, I couldn't change anything, but now I think that I am ready.I have a feeling that the renovation may be the subject of many blogs to come.

I don't really like this new life. My best friend for 30 years is gone.

I'll get by somehow.

updated 06/28/2014