Besides the health and fitness, running can build great friendships. Chances are that you never see April at a race without her friend Jamie. Their support and encouragement is inspiring and we should all have a friendship like this in our lives. I titled this article “Better than the Couch” because, let’s face it, the couch IS very tempting! And that’s one more great thing about a running buddy… they keep you on track, accountable & moving towards your goals. So, you met Jamie a few articles back. Now, let’s meet April!
Why did you start running? I started running to improve my health and relieve stress. I am not fast by any means but feel it is better than sitting on the couch!
How did you get started? I have always been around races as I grew up with my mom running 5k-marathons. Many years ago, we started doing the Turkey Trot in Valparaiso on Thanksgiving morning every year as a family..we figured we could burn calories before we eat them. Then I started doing runs with my amazing friend, Jamie. We enjoy finding new and unique races.
What is your favorite Hometown Happenings event & why? I love them all! I 
think that everyone involved with Hometown Happenings is extremely friend and encouraging. The last couple of years, I have done the Run Like a Mother 5K for Mother’s Day with my mom. My friend, Jamie, also does the run and her mom comes to cheer us on. It is a really nice start to the day! I also love the Halloween Happenings 5K and the St. Pat’s Pre-Parade One Miler.
This year, the Thank God for Pets 5K was just before my dreaded 40th. Hometown Happenings and Jamie made this the best run ever. It was so touching that everyone sang to me following the race!
What goal do you still want to accomplish with your running? I would like to get better and better. I took a break after a foot injury, and I am working to get stronger and faster with each run.
What are your interests/activities outside of running? I work full time serving individuals that have been diagnosed with a developmental disability. I am a part time student and a full time mom to two kids and six fur babies…that keeps me busy! I love to travel and craft when I get the chance.
What is your best advice for someone getting started? Don’t give up! It doesn’t matter how slow you go, you are still doing it!