Thanks to my first donors!

I've started contacting people via email for my fundraising, and I wanted to give a shout-out to the first few people who've donated to the cause. A huge thank you to Jon and Monica Stone for their support—you guys rock.

Training is still going well. I went to my first Tuesday practice yesterday, which is just an optional run down at Green Lake, and my running buddies and I made the 2.9-mile loop in about 30 minutes, which was great considering it was cold and I'm still getting into running shape from the whole knee debacle. We've got a training session Saturday morning that includes a shoe-fitting clinic, so I'm looking forward to getting some more running advice on ACL injuries.

First training day!

Our first training run as a team was yesterday morning -- just a 40-minute pace day at Gas Works Park in Seattle. It was a chilly morning, but luckily not raining, since I need find my running gloves and stock up on some cold-weather running gear. We train outdoors through the winter, so I'll get be out pounding the pavement no matter what the weather, in true Seattle fashion.

I signed up for the Team in Training partially for the charity aspect of it, but also because I wanted to make new friends in Seattle, and the first day didn't disappoint. I spent the 40 minute jog chatting with my new teammate Anna, and I also met my coaches and my mentor, Cheryl, who helps with fundraising tips and any questions we have during the training. The coaches and teammates were really supportive, even during a short training run. It's a great atmosphere, and everyone on the team seems really welcoming and eager to enjoy the experience.

I'm a little nervous for the fundraising aspect of the team, but Saturday was a great start. For anyone who's done fundraising themselves, what are your strategies?