It's a Rachel (Bar) Kind of Day

Rachel and me

I've just got something on my mind. And hey, it's remotely about baking!

Remember my friend Rachel? She's still troopering along, half done with chemo now! I'm so proud of her.

Remember that outstanding Rachel Bar (a peanut butter cookie drenched in ganache) named after her? Rachel made those bars with her mom a few days after I wrote the post, and called me very excited as they were cooling on the kitchen counter. That call made my day; she has no idea just how much.

The Rachel Bar

Remember the fundraising efforts for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, started as a way to boost Rachel's spirits? Oh, and by the way, it's not too late to donate. Well, we've already raised over $9,300, a truly remarkable amount.

Last question of the day. Remember I said I'd be running a half-marathon in Rachel's honor? In fact, my exact words were:

In Rachel's honor, I will be running (well, more accurately jogging, walking, and panting) in the Carlsbad Half-Marathon on January 25 as part of Team Rachey.

Well, the race was this past Sunday and I'm happy to report that I made it across the finish line in one piece! In fact, panting I was not! It was my first half-marathon and not being a runner before a few months ago, I was just a little bit nervous the days leading up. But in mile 11, when I thought my legs were going to crumble beneath me, I was reminded of Rachel's strength, and suddenly two more miles became possible. Right after the race, my friend and I got to talk to Rachel on the phone, and hearing her happy voice made it all worth it. Half-marathon half-shmarathon!

Team Rachey

Now go make some more Rachel Bars.