In celebration of Sarah’s birthday today, we’re cheering for the woman who has inspired countless mother runners to find joy in the miles. We asked some of the AMR community to share their memories and wishes for Sarah, and we compiled a handful of their responses as a digital birthday card.

Whether it’s with a morning run, a post-workout slice of cake, or simply a heartfelt “Happy Birthday, Sarah!”—we’re honoring the powerhouse who keeps this community moving forward. Here’s to another year of miles, laughter, and mother-runner magic, SBS!

What’s your favorite memory of Sarah?

“Hearing her sing Cee-Lo at the Lake Placid karaoke night!” —Kara B.

“Hilton Head Retreat 2022: Despite Sarah’s back pain, she danced like crazy, smiling away!” —Diane M.

“Twin Cities Marathon in 2019. AMR hosted a shake-out run at a coffee shop it was raining, SBS and I were texting about how we both forgot to pack rain gear!” —Leah W.

“Back in the early days, I would email AMR with questions and she would respond. I love that she is gifted in making connections, remembering little tidbits about people and events, and making each person she talks to feel important.” —Gina B.

“SBS has become a friend in part because of her incredible support of my family. My favorite memories are breakfast and lunches in Portland while exploring colleges and visiting my kid. And lunches that don’t even involve me but Cute Husband and SBS waxing philosophical and the twins being my kid’s personal Uber. What a freaking impact when your professional expands to the personal. Happy birthday, SBS.” —Alana S.

“One favorite memory (of many) was being on the same Love The Run virtual relay team with Sarah and passing our virtual baton via the Marco Polo video app in Fall 2020.” —Sara M.

“Way back before AMR, when I read Sarah and Dimity’s articles in Runner’s World, I was only a few years out from graduating from our shared Alma mater, Colgate University. My BRF was moving away and I remember an article where they talked about keeping in touch and training with a BRF across the miles. My friend and I did just that and have multiple times in the 20 years since, including attending the 2022 AMR retreat in Hilton Head where we got to meet SBS and Dimity IRL!” —Tracey S.

“My favorite memory of Sarah is when Stephanie Spindler (ACCIDENTALLY) went swimming in the ocean with her at the last Hilton Head retreat.  Sarah was all set (and properly dressed) for a swim. Stephanie and I agreed to wade out into the water with her. One wave led to another and we were soon completely drenched.  It was quite chilly but a TON of fun. We went back in the next day with more people!” —Cortney S.

What have you learned from Sarah?

“Fast or slow, you are a runner if you are running. And, sometimes, the party is in the back anyway.  So enjoy those miles and the gift of running.” —Rachael P.

“Stick to the plan. Do the dynamic warmup. Have fun and try new things.” —Karen A.

“Confidence – Sarah is a great example of a woman who is confident in her own skin, owns who she is and doesn’t apologize or change for others. She encourages this community to say “I’m a runner” no matter our pace or frequency of running. She is the best hype-girl for other women.” —Holly

“Don’t be afraid to take up space. Making myself smaller doesn’t help others, it just robs me of my own growth. Sarah has shown me to have courage and not back down from the things that are important to me.” —Cathy E.

“To laugh heartily and with gusto, and to laugh at myself.” —Suzanne R.

“Having fun through movement is the most important thing. You do not have to always be chasing big goals to feel accomplished.” —Jenn H.

“Don’t hesitate to give a genuine compliment!” —Jennifer S.

“It’s possible to pee in capris before a race.” —Kim F.

“It’s never too late to learn a new sport! Sarah’s love of pickleball is proof positive!” —Megan P.

“Many, many big words.” —April H.

“You may be injured for a long time, but you’re not out for the count.” —Casii D.

Fill in the blank: In the next 365, I hope SBS..

“finds all the change!” —Kristen G.

“has a year of joy, good health, many laughs with family and friends, and a chance for us to somehow meet up for a fun drink or meal together! Much love and appreciation for all that you do!” —Mary Ellen K.

“continues with her love of pickleball!” —Andrea G.

“finds joy in everyday happenings.” —Nicole A.

“will add 365 more days to her Duolingo streak!” —Kerry C.

“has time with her kids (now that they’re all spread out), gets to celebrate more pickleball wins, and keeps inspiring BAMRs everywhere.” —Danielle L.

“takes another international trip!  I loved hearing her travel recap about Japan.” —Lorinda D.

“is filled with joy, love, and laughter! SBS may you continue to inspire those around you with your kindness, energy, and positivity. Keep shining, keep laughing, and keep making the world a brighter place just by being you!  Cheers to another year of happiness, success, and many happy miles!” —Shannon J.