I went out for my run this morning and it was warmer than I was anticipating it would be.  But I was determined to push myself a little harder and work on my speed.  I was happy with my first mile’s pace of 11:35 and my last mile’s pace of 11:13.  Granted I used to be much, much faster, but that was when all I ran were 5K races.

As I was working towards my next mile my phone chimed that I had a message.  My kids were sleeping over my parents’ house so I stopped, paused my watch and checked my phone.  It wasn’t the kids.  It was a friend of mine filling me in on some news she was waiting for.  It wasn’t the news she wanted to hear.  After I read the message I just stood there for several minutes.  I responded with some encouraging words and offered any help that I could give whenever or however they need it.  But I was still stunned.  I didn’t expect to hear back so soon and I certainly didn’t expect the news to be what it was.  On the bright side they said they are taking the news really well.  They were making plans on what the next steps were going to be.

To respect the privacy of the friend and their family I won’t discuss who is going through this difficult time; but it made me miss my kids and want to see them as soon as I can.  It also made me stand there and reflect on everything I have to be grateful for.  I looked at the blue sky and the cornfields in front of me, felt the sweat dripping down my back and face, and knew that my legs were strong and were going to run be back home.

I also decided at that exact moment that I wanted to recruit my family to participate in the Virtual Give Kids The World Gingerbread 5K run.  I discussed it with the kids during dinner tonight.  Adrienne remembered that Give Kids The World Village is the place where children who are very sick get to have ice cream for breakfast and are treated to every holiday during their week’s stay at the village.  Kevin asked how far it was and gladly accepted the challenge.

I made it a priority to visit the Give Kids the World Village when I was in Disney last February.  A few of my Mickey Miler team members and I pooled together some money and I went to Target to purchase some toys and supplies that they Village needs.  I felt so honored to be able to bring the items there; but I also felt grateful for all the good I have in my life.

Will you join me in the virtual run?  You can register here.  If you raise up to $100 you get the great purple shirt sent along with your medal!

 

I am also a member of the Mickey Milers Team who also raises funds for Give Kids the World. Please feel free to donate with the button on the right side of my blog page.

This past weekend the members of the Mickey Milers Team participated in the Small World Challenge.  They raised money and rode the Small World rides on both the West Coast and the East Coast for hours they were sponsored for, or some rode for the entire day from park open to park close.  We have a passion for the charity and hope you can help!