Runner 40; Teacher at DeSoto County Schools

I <3 RUNNING: Running is a journey through which you discover the best version of yourself. There is a PR I can always chase down and improve myself. It is me versus who I used to be.

BUCKET LIST: I want to run the original marathon route. It runs from Marathon, Greece, to Athens.

UP NEXT: I am currently training for Antelope Canyon 50 Miler and the Country Mile 48-hour races.

FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: I remember the first time I ran five miles without stopping and the incredible feeling of accomplishment it gave me. As my trek continued, I pushed my boundaries and completed my first half, then my first full. After finishing my first Ultra, I was in pain and complete awe. Since then, I have completed dozens of ultras, including a 100-miler and a 200-miler. But my favorite fitness accomplishments come from others. There is nothing more rewarding for me than knowing that something I did or said helped inspire someone else or helped them achieve their own goals.

HOMETOWN: Olive Branch, MS

SPEED BUMPS: The most challenging part of my fitness journey has been my mental state. I had ideas about what I thought was possible and what was not. It has been an amazing journey to repeatedly discover that the impossible is possible and, with hard work and dedication, there is no goal I cannot accomplish.

MY GROUP: I am part of the Trail Trippers and North Mississippi Endurance Runners groups, and I play volleyball with the team Continuum.

FAV JAMS: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: Trail Tripper’s Backyard Ultra. This event changed how I viewed and approached running. I was basically a solo road runner who discovered that running is NOT a solo sport. Everyone was helping each other and offering supplies and advice. They showed me that the running community is amazing.

BEST EATS: Happy Mexican. I love their grilled chicken fajitas.

GO-TO GEAR: My Garmin Forerunner 965. I love tracking my data and seeing my improvement over time. I even love my watch tan line!

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: The best part about being active is how it makes me FEEL! Every run, every workout, every activity makes me feel GOOD and happy. It may not always feel great while I am doing the activity, but afterwards it is an incredible feeling.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “The House of Hades” by Rick Riordan

BINGE-WATCHING: “Wednesday”

PERSONAL MOTTO: “I can. I will.”