Thanksgiving is upon us and this year, like years past, Lisa and I have many, many reasons to give thanks and appreciation for all. We have been blessed in countless ways with one of the ways being quality friends. We would like to take some time now to acknowledge everyone who is in our lives.

Jerry and Tammy. Prior to starting your store, we really liked the Ocoee/Winter Garden area. Now we love it. We are very grateful for the courage and faith that you exhibited by starting your store. More so, every time we walk in. . .without exception. . . we are always greeted with warmth and kindness. We can’t drive down Plant Street without stopping to say hello.

We also admire your juggling skills — being able to run a store, run races (in a FAST manner no less) and not only raise a family, but do so in an exemplary fashion. Impressive to say the least.

Jane. Tammy and Jerry got the ball rolling and you keep it moving forward, Jane. It is touching to see the care that you provide to each person who enters, whether they are friends you know or ones you are just meeting. It is also impressive how “sponge-like” you are, always looking to better yourself, improve in your sport and just grow as a person.

When we go into Tri & Run, it is a second home. We cannot thank you enough for this.

Bob and Jan. We started out with a coach and ended up with 2 wonderful friends. What a gift!

You are living proof that opposites not only attract, but compliment each other. Bob is the strong, more quiet type and Jan is the bubbly, outgoing one. Together, you are a powerful team and we are proud to call you friends. Your faith and what you have overcome (and continue to do so daily) are both inspiring and humbling.

Dan. My long time friend. Tough as they come, you have seen the worse in me and the best (especially the former) and have always been there. You are my brother and I appreciate your loyalty and treasure your life- long friendship.

Ed. You are still the smartest man I’ve ever met. I value our conversations and communication, and especially the lessons you taught to that 24 year old who knew nothing back then. You helped shape my life and I am eternally grateful for this.

I miss Mary. You two were a perfect fit. You were the cake and Mary was the candles, the kind you blow out and 2 seconds later, they re-light. Regardless of circumstances, she was always positive energy and upbeat. We are taught that God is infallible, but maybe this one time, He took someone too soon. Then again, heaven received a star.

Kay, Amy, Lisa, Jim, Dawn, Victoria and all of our friends we see on the Trail weekly. We love seeing your smiles and appreciate the words of encouragement and conversations along the way. Your being out there inspires us to want to be there, working hard as well. Your accomplishments and the way your approach life in such a humble manner is most impressive.

Carlos. My friend from aikido. It is amazing to watch how your life is moving forward and with a decidedly upward slope. That is just wonderful! You deserve the successes and undoubtedly will be the recipient of many more. You help me to push harder and farther, knocking down self-imposed barriers along the way. Fatherhood is working for you! Congratulations my friend.

Victoria. You are new into my life, but you have already shared so much of who you are with me. Your strength is truly inspirational. Your kindness and thoughtfulness are deeply appreciated and never taken for granted.

Anne. I am so proud of you for making the commitment to start walking and running. I feel blessed that I’ve been able to share in your successes and watch as you’ve crossed the finish lines. Congratulations, and thank you for letting me be part of your life.

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The greatest compliment one could give to another is that EACH of YOU have made our lives better. It is with 100% conviction that everyone above has done that for both of us. We thank you deeply.