My First Race, I Run For YOU.

As you may know, this is my first race. I'm excited and anxious to finally be following through with one of my dreams.

I chose this race because it takes place in the city where my mother lives.
I know that wherever I run, my mother would be there, but this is easier. :)
It's also close enough so that the rest of my family can come cheer me on.

This journey has been one of the hardest things I've ever done. And I'm still doing it.
I'm proud of what I've accomplished and I truly hope that this is the first of many, many races.
And to think this all started with one innocent tweet to Sean Astin... ;)

A few months ago, Sean inspired me with his own marathon running. You see, he was taking #run3rd dedications, and that really touched my heart.
I sent him my dedications, and he tweeted me back accepting them and promising to run for ME.
Please read Sean's #run3rd statement here.

It was Sean who also encouraged me to quit smoking 2 months ago. Even from afar, he still motivates me every single day. When I have a craving, I think of how disappointed he would be with me. That keeps me from picking up that next cigarette.

And so, because of Sean and the other #run3rd captains, some of whom I've become close to on Twitter, I too would like to #run3rd for you, if you'll let me.

I won't promise to run this race in a certain amount of time. And I won't promise to RUN the whole race.
But I WILL promise to finish this 5K. Whether I'm running, walking or crawling, I WILL cross that finish line.

From what I understand, some of these pledges go to the Ontario Early Years Center.
The OEYC is a place that's close to my heart. They were there for Belle and I when she was first diagnosed with her delays.

If you want to pledge, feel free. But it's okay if you don't.
All I ask is that, on this day, you cheer me on, from near or far.
I'll hear you.

Thanks. :)