It's Official...

I'm running the National Half Marathon on March 26th, 2011; I'm already registered! It will be my 33rd birthday-- and it just so happens that 33 is my lucky number. I will be running for the Back on My Feet charity, and I can't think of a more fitting charity for my birthday run. Back on My Feet strives to help homeless men and women feel the benefits of running-- benefits I have gained myself through running-- and also provides job training, educational opportunities, and housing assistance.

Running has given so much to me. Through running, I have recognized my strength. Through running, I recognized I have no limits. I've found confidence, health, and most importantly for me, inner peace. I used to have anxiety attacks on a regular basis, to the point that for almost an entire year, I couldn't keep food down. I would get so nervous and upset (and not know over what) that I would throw up. Medication solved this anxiety issue, but the attacks were always present as soon as I went off medication. Since I started running almost 3 years ago, I haven't needed medication and I've only had a small hand full of attacks. And truthfully, the attacks were prompted by situations that might send anyone into a panic. With running, I've learned that when I'm anxious, confused, or need to sort through a problem, a long run is my quiet spot to catch my breath, regroup, think, and come up with a plan. I've also found that the running community is one of the most embracing groups of people I've ever met. Even though I'm not a fast runner, I've always felt welcomed by all runners-- included the fastest. I love feeling like I'm part of something.

I like that Back on My Feet provides these same opportunities to people who need to recognize their confidence, strength, and inner peace the most. So for my birthday this year, in lieu of presents for me, I'm asking my family to make a donation on my behalf to Back on My Feet, which will certainly be a gift to someone who needs it more than me.

If you'd like to make a donation, please check out my Back on My Feet donation page HERE. And no pressure... I know it's the holiday season. And I have until March 26 to keep pestering you. :)

Now it's time to get serious again about training. Yippee!