When you’re passionate about something, don’t you just have that urge to share your enthusiasm with others?
I’m thankful that my mom took me along with her to races when I was a young girl. A running seed was planted and has grown from being an after school activity to something that keeps me sane and healthy.
And that’s something I want to pass along to other young girls as well.
Earlier this fall, I discovered Girls on the Run—a program that works to educate and prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. And immediately, I knew I wanted to be a part of it in some way, so I registered to be a running buddy for 3rd-5th grade girls.
A couple of weeks ago, I got to meet my lil’ running buddy for a practice run and this past weekend was the culmination of their program. A ‘graduation’ of sorts for the 155 girls; a 5K run they’ve been training for over the past few months.
So on Saturday morning, Todd and I enthusiastically headed to Seward Park (okay, I pretty much dragged him along with me). Me to run, him to cheer us on in the freezing temps. At least the views made the cold not seem so bad.
After meeting up with my lil’ buddy, there was a group warmup, stretching, and then we started off on the 3.1 mile run. 
My buddy Ellie ran the entire race without walking! (that was her goal I was helping her to achieve) It was great to see all these young girls cross the finish line and feel like champions. I loved seeing the joy and accomplishment that running gave them.
I’m already excited to do it again for the spring season!
