This past weekend I participated in my first 5k walk/run.  The Dempsey Challenge: A Journey for Hope.  A wonderful cause raising funds for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing. I turned 40 this summer and since January have been on a crusade to lose weight and get in shape.  Participating in this 5k was a milestone in this continuing endeavor.

What a great experience!  I had my new running shoes, 40ish lbs lighter, and well on my way to be “Foxy at 40″ (the theme for the year). I was so hyped up…. right up until I made that first turn and saw the first hill!  I had no idea there would be hills.  Needless to say, I did not run up ANY hills, I walked as fast as I could breathing so hard I thought my lungs were going to deflate permanently. It was definitely a challenge.  A challenge I am proud to say that was completed without needing any medical attention and left only temporary pain that has been a constant reminder that I need to cherish my health.