Ok so here is the thing...I have been running. The one activity I have always said that I would never ever ever do. No one looks like they are happy running. They look pained and tortured, as do I now. Do I do it because it feels good...most definitely not! Do I do it because I am good at it...most definitely not! Do I do it because I think I am going to run marathons...not in this lifetime! I do it because it pushes me to reach and get out of my comfort zone. It challenges me. It so very much challenges me. But having started to face up to and meet that challenge head on I feel empowered. I feel strong and able and like yes I can! That is a very good feeling to have I must say! This running came as a symptom of a competition at work to lose weight. I had to try to increase my activity more than walking because results were slim... I am making big life changes. I have shifted my eating habits and totally increased my exercise and guess what????!!! It has started to work. Not in a big fast way but in a way I can maintain and continue on with. I have lost 7 pounds in 6 weeks. I am proud of this because I did this the right way and in a sustainable healthy way. I feel strong and like I may be able to do anything...like maybe I can make other changes as well...we shall see!! Portland anyone?
So, Bronwyn took part in a program called Girls On the Run. It is set up to empower girls and help them work as a team to meet the goal to run a 5K while learning about body image issues, treating themselves with respect, and healthy living. It is sponsored by Shelterhouse our local domestic violence center. In order to run in this event, my little lady had to have a running buddy. She asked me. I was honored and scared. I am not a runner. I have done it but am not a runner. Then I got sick for most of the practice season and that just added to my fear. So on November 19th I layered up, put on my running shoes, and went with one determined young lady to see what my unfit, unpracticed body could accomplish. Lo and behold...I finished! We walked some or I might have died but we finished the whole thing in 45 minutes so for one non-runner and one 8 yr. old I am pretty proud of that! And all this done to lead in the Santa Parade, culminating in my lovely girl getting a medal and Santa finally making his way downtown!! So if you think you can't do something, if it scares you to think it, then maybe just maybe that is the one thing you absolutely need to be out there doing!! 
