#megsmiles

Today was a beautiful day for a run.  With the recent cold and harsh weather here in Indiana, 45 degrees and sunny was a welcome relief.  There were still sporadic patches of ice and snow along my five-mile route, but I was able to avoid them pretty easily.

One year ago on January 13, a women named Meg Menzies was out for her morning run when she was struck and killed by a drunk driver.  She had no way of knowing when she stepped outside that day, just like countless days before, that she would not make it home to see her husband or three children.

Today, a virtual run was held to honor Meg's memory and to raise awareness for drunk and distracted driving.  Runners are encouraged to take photos during their run and post them online using the hashtag #megsmiles so that others can be encouraged by the outpouring of love for Meg's family.

It is easy to be thankful for nice days like today and to complain about the grey and cloudy days.  However, today I am reminded not to take any days for granted.  Tomorrow is not promised.  Take advantage of all of your opportunities and be thankful for everything in your life, even those things that are hard to be thankful for.

I am convinced that Meg is watching down over us today, and that she is the reason for the unseasonably warm weather.  I read this on the "Megs Miles" Facebook page-- "Let all runners unite together and remember the loss of a beautiful spirit. It's not a coincidence the hashtag reads either 'Meg's Miles' or 'Meg Smiles.' She will be smiling on all of us forevermore."

Please remember that I am raising money to support Riley Hospital for Children as I train for the 500 Festival Mini Marathon on May 2.  You can use this link to donate. Thank you for your generous support! http://donate.rileykids.org/goto/staceydraper