It's FanBoy Friday! - Meet The Murphy's.

I've said it many times, but it's always worth repeating. Running has given me so many gifts beyond the weight loss and improved health. It's also given me experiences (Bay to Breakers, anyone?) and opportunities (From Fat to Finish!).

Most importantly, though, running has brought the most amazing people into my life. And two of those people are the object of my attention in today's FanBoy Friday.

Friends, meet The Murphy's.

Yep. In kilts. Because they're cool like that.

Kat and John Murphy. They look like two normal people, but they're not. They are quite extraordinary.

I first met them in April 2011. They were in the second van of my very first Ragnar team, and I had very little time to spend with them. Fast forward to February 2012, and I joined their team to run Ragnar Del Sol in Arizona.

Post 200 miles of running in the Arizona desert.

I knew they were good people, but until my weekend with them, I really had no idea just how generous and giving they were. They not only took on the responsibility of captaining the Del Sol team, they also opened their home to all of the runners after the relay. We had a fantastic dinner and a long night of drinks, laughter and mayhem.

In the year and a half since then, I have had the chance to really get to know them both. And I can't say enough good things about them. Their home in Arizona serves as a hub for their large group of friends, and there is always something happening. Whether it's a barbecue by the pool or an early morning run, the Murphy's make sure that everyone stays connected. And through them, I have also been fortunate enough to meet and become friends with many people in their extended circle. More win!

Thank you, Kat and John, for opening your home to me. Thank you for opening your hearts to me. And thank you for making me feel not like a guest in town, but like a family member who returns and is welcomed each time with open arms.

You two are both such giving, caring people. Being your friend is an honor. And yes, I am definitely a fan.