Short Version: I’m a native Houstonian, a Texans fan, my nickname is Tally, and I like to say “Hey, howdy” for some reason as a greeting (with or without the Spock hand sign).

(Arguably) More Interesting Version: I swore I would change my life for the better in 2025, but had little real direction as to how til recently. The past few years I’d thought about how cool it would be to run in the Houston Marathon. “Yeah, that would be great to do when I finally lose all this weight and get fit!”

It hit me in late April that MAYBE training to run in the marathon would take care of that some AND help me reach that goal. I had to remember that practice is NOT perfect, but rather “Practice is Progress.” And I needed to start somewhere–NOW–instead of just talking about it.

I put my foot down (conveniently INTO a running shoe, so that’s a good sign) and decided right then and there I’d re-commit to making myself healthier (physically, mentally, and financially), interact with my community more, and make some friends along the way. I missed being able to contribute and donate time or money to those in need; unfortunately my budget hasn’t allowed for that in some time.

So I signed up to “Run for a Reason” to participate in the Houston Marathon. This would allow me to raise money for a good cause & it could waive my entry fee if I meet the minimum donation threshold. I want to be successful in this first attempt so I am able to make this a continuous thing, raising funds for many research and community needs in the years to come and go to plenty more charity runs.

Beginning May 15th, 2025, in one year I have 3 main goals to accomplish as part of my health journey:

1. Improve my fitness and train to participate in and finish the Houston Marathon on January 11th, 2026 (not just show up and give up partway through, but FINISH).
2. Learn to cook better and become a vegetarian by September, and then vegan by January.
3. Sign up for other marathons or charity walks to raise money for causes AFTER the Houston Marathon, and find ways to be a part of the broader sports-loving community in the Houston area.

I’m also re-learning about the basic rules of my fave sports, namely football and basketball. I’d love to be knowledgeable to participate in conversations and game gatherings with other fans. My sports bar job has reignited my interest and I love the little bits I’ve learned so far. I went down the rabbit hole of learning from content creators online and it’s so much fun watching the discussions. Perhaps when the seasons start, I’ll have the chance to participate too on here.

In the meantime, thanks for coming along with me on my journey to a healthier me. It’s gonna be painful and funny along the way, because even when I’m feeling less than stellar, I just HAVE to find something to laugh about.