Member of the Month - July

It's Featured Member Friday! Each month (ok, about every 4 months) we interview a member of our tribe so you can get to know us better.  This month we are talking to Monica H!

If you've ever wondered what it's like to run about 4 miles with a 3-foot Minnie Mouse piñata in your stroller (along with your 3-year-old daughter), Monica could tell you. After her daughter, Emilia, decided that it could not be sacrificed at her birthday party, she started toting it around like it was not actually the same size as she was. This included bringing it in the stroller with her for several runs until it was replaced (and retired to the dumpster... did I mention Monica's biggest fear is mice?).

Despite her unorthodox stroller accessories, Monica earned herself the nickname "Speedy Garcia" because of her quick feet and Mexican heritage. She was born in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico and her incredible cooking abilities reflect her roots. Her still strong accent has led people to compare her to Sofia Vergara, too!

Monica is a Ronan & Fields Consultant in addition to staying at home with Emilia. Before baby, she was a Food and Beverage Manager with a nutcracker collection, and an affinity for SXSW. Luckily her daughter has inherited her love for festivals, and is happy to accompany both Monica and her husband, Mike, on any and all Austin adventures they can dream up! She has sported headphones at SXSW shows, biked the Town Lake Boardwalk, and been to plays at the theater.

When she's not taking full advantage of this city's incredible offerings, Monica is putting in some serious miles. She pushes her single B.O.B., and rocks out to the tune of Justin Beiber's "Despacito." Monica says she cannot run without her hat, especially in hot weather, and her dream job is to be a professional runner. She has already completed a full marathon, and has plans to do more. Her first was partially unplanned, as she had registered for the full, but decided before the race to do the half. However, after completing the half the day of the race and slamming a beer, she got going again and finished the full after all!

Monica's favorite post-run indulgence is tacos, though she says she also has ice cream every night before bed. Food is the way to Emilia's heart as well, as Monica says the key to keeping her happy in the stroller (aside from the giant Minnie) is lots and lots of snacks. Bringing their rambunctious beagle, Rocco, along for runs is another way Emilia stays entertained, as she and Rocco have a close connection (think Nana in Peter Pan). Monica's favorite running spot is Katherine Fleischer Park, but will always go for a day at Town Lake, too. Next time you're out and about (or your kiddo is insisting on packing something ridiculous to accompany you on your run), give Monica a high five and know you're not alone!