For those of you that know me, you know I love to shop - especially for shoes. You also know the words "work out" are not frequently used by me. It's a fact, that the most physical activity by me is done while dancing after enjoying a few adult beverages. So here it is 2009 and I'm turning 35. I decided it was time for a major new year's resolution. I wanted to do something that would change my life - especially physically because nothing in my closet fits the way it used to and half the time the new clothes don't look they way they are intended to. So in November 08, I decided I was going to run a triathlon this year. January began and I started surfing to find a triathlon training plan. I basically got no where with this research except determining there would be alot of shopping involved. Like any sport, a triathlon requires "outfits & gear." You need shoes, a swimsuit, swim accessories (swim cap & goggles) and a bike, which also requires special bike shoes. I decided to purchase the running shoes because I could at least start running. I went to Run On (Mockingbird Ln location) where I signed in to be "fitted." I told my shoe sales expert I was considering running a triathlon and needed shoes for this venture. She told me she was a triathlon coach and gave me her card. I bought the shoes and some very expensive socks. Apparently your feet need to breathe while you run and this can be managed through the right socks. I did manage to avoid purchasing any of the super cute running outfits. Who knew running outfits could be so super duper cute? I went home and looked up All Tri, which is the organization where my shoe sales expert coaches. I found out I could train & run a triathlon while raising money for the charity of my choice. Talk about a life changing resolution! This triathlon would now take care of me physically & mentally. I would know each time I drag myself to another work out session that I am doing this for something greater than me. I have now committed to doing this triathlon & I decided to raise money for Community Partners of Dallas, which ensures safety and restores dignity & hope to abused and neglected children by providing resources and support to the caseworkers of Dallas County Child Protective Services. My husband and I don't have children and I am adopted. It is very important to me that all children have the opportunity to be raised in a safe, nurturing & loving environment, just as I was. Every child deserves a chance to make something out of their life. I also know I am raising money for an organization that is run properly. The CPD staff is AWESOME and their President, Paige McDaniel, and Development VP, Joanna Clarke, are Top Notch! All it took was their blessing and I signed on the dotted line. I've agreed to train, compete in the triathlon and raise at least $2500 for Community Partners of Dallas. Oh, and that shoe sales expert, Clair Oliver, is now my triathlon Coach. She has ONLY completed 40 triathlons and 10 marathons and coached over 500 people. She is a Rock Star and she's my coach. Now show me your support by making a donation to CPD through my fundraising link and always remember if at first you don't succeed at something, try try again!
