I walked 14 miles today. Surprisingly, it was a bit easier than the 13 miles last week. Rita, my mentor, was kind enough to skip the Team training yesterday in order to walk with me today. She's a gem!

I've been thinking a great deal about Uncle Jud. John, Sue (my sister-in-law), & I flew down to L.A. this past Thursday night to attend Uncle Jud's funeral (held Friday morning). The service was beautiful. I cried. A lot. It was a bad day to wear eye make-up.

I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Uncle Jud:

Uncle Jud, you will always hold a special place in my heart. My first exposure to the extended "Petersen" clan was Grandma Petersen's 90th birthday party/family reunion. Needless to say, even for an extrovert like me, it was a bit overwhelming. You were the first one to approach me and to make me feel welcome. I can still feel the warmth of your arm around my shoulder...that little squeeze as if to say: "Everything's going to be okay." I'm so proud of you, Uncle Jud. So proud of your life, so proud of your legacy. And I miss you so very much.