Five Weeks - Till The Big Race

I'm preparing for the Big Race!

No. Not the NYC Marathon, or even a half marathon. I'm getting ready for the Susan G. Komen, "Race For The Cure." This year 'It's My Race.'

The very first time I participated, in 2006, I walked by myself. Although there were thousands, literally tens of thousands of women, I wasn't with a group, or with friends. That was okay, I was doing something I wanted to do. The atmosphere was electrifying! I knew I wanted to do it again!

It was 2008, when I walked again, joined by my friend Yaminah and our daughters. Mr. Husband cheered us on, along with the other 3 miles of men.

We raced with our girls because we wanted to share the experience with them, as well as encourage them to make a difference in causes that affect their survival. This year, I'm walking with a friend from church Anita, who since last year's race been diagnosed, fought, and beat breast cancer. I'm also walking in honor of my aunt Gladys who is a survivor.

Now, that it's our local 2009 race is in five weeks, I'm taking it seriously. This was just the motivation I needed to get me back on track. I've been looking for motivation for awhile. She's been missing in action for a long time now. I see her off in the distance.

I know you might be thinking, why get prepared for a 5K, it's only 3.1 miles. It may seem simple, let me tell you! The first time I walked in the "Race For The Cure," at the one mile mark I just knew it was two miles. And when I finally got to the two mile marker, I was looking for the finish line. I THOUGHT, I was in pretty good shape. In preparation, this week, I'll start walking one mile at least three days, maybe four, and each week gradually increase the distance.

I also want to make this year's race more fun by dressing up! I plan on wearing a pink wig, feather boa, and maybe even a tu-tu! Yea, I think I can rock a tu-tu! I my children will be embarrassed, one has already said she won't be walking with me, she'll cheer with her dad. Who cares, I'm walking for an excellent cause, and having fun doing it!

As much as I love participating in the "Race for the Cure," breast cancer is a very serious matter. If you've never participated in any breast cancer race, walk or any other fund raiser, I encourage you to consider it. It's all worth while, and I promise you'll be inspired. If nothing else the funds that you contribute, might even help in saving your life!

Yaminah and I, at the finish line!