Jingle Bell Walk/Run

I've come up with a new goal that I'm pretty excited about. Especially since I've recruited a few friends to join me. Instead of loosing weight, I am going to walk a marathon next fall. The Bellingham Bay Marathon to be specific. I had several friends that did the breast cancer walk this year... that's a 60 miles... I know they are nuts. I can't see torturing myself that badly, so I am going for a 26.2 miles total. Here is a link to this year's route: http://www.bellinghambaymarathon.org/pdf/marathonmap2008.pdf

Since that isn't for another year, I have found a "race" that is sooner and a warm up. It's a 5K Walk or Run for the Arthritis Foundation on December 13th. And even Raven can walk with us. :) Here's a link to their website: http://bellinghamjbr.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=286410 .

So from reading the website, I found some interesting information. 1 out of 5 people will develop arthritis. Although I have bad knees I can't tell you from experience what it feels like to have arthritis, but my mother does have osteoarthritis and I know from her experience it is painful. I remember as a child being able to tell that she was the one walking up and down the stairs because of her creaking knees. As I walk up the stairs to my office, I hear my mother's knees inside of mine. chrk, chrk, chrk... and I wonder... will I be one of those five that will develop it? My chances aren't good.

I have recruited five people so far to join my "team" for the walk. And I have been "nominated" captain. lol My friend Janene put together this awesome training format for walkers and runners. She's amazing! Although I admit, I did not go out walking today because it has been pouring and very windy ever since I left work today. BUT, I did stick in my walking video and I did do a 15 minute walk. It felt great to get up and move after such a sedimentary day. The kids were asleep and it was me time!

So, if anyone that is in the area would like to join me in my adventure towards a healthy lifestyle, or is interested in training for the Marathon, or interested in the Jingle Bell Walk/Run you are more than welcome to join me. If you are not, I'd like to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself with something you never thought you could do, but always wanted to.

Towanda my friends! ;)