Life Lately - Polar Bear Strut 5k!!

In high school, I was on the track and field team. HEAVY emphasis on the "field".  Which means that I was also a sprinter (or tried to be) and not a distance runner. This year, approximately seven years since my high school graduation and last track meet... I've decided to make running a 5k a 2013 resolution. Took me long enough, huh?  

Last year, you may remember my blog post about the Polar Bear Plunge here. Inspired by a fellow teacher and friend, I put on my wig (really) and ran into the freezing cold Lake of the Ozarks. It was INCREDIBLE! Sure, we were quite chilly and wet when we climbed out of the water but knowing that I was doing it for athletes all over the state of Missouri made my heart happy. YOU should consider taking the plunge in YOUR state! I even heard on the radio that Dierks Bentley (that country one!) does the plunge every year. I can't seem to find a list of all plunges around the country, but if you're a resident of the Show Me State and you're interested in plunging click here. 

Ready to Plunge!

FREEZING FOR A REASON!

This year, I decided to rekindle my lost love for track and field (emphasis on the field) and try my luck in the "Strut". The Lake of the Ozarks hosts a unique 5k the morning of the plunge. I've rallied some troops to join my team and we're are going to be running in the freezing cold for a reason. 

Since I've been running, I have been capturing some little moments on Instagram. Partially because I'm obsessed and quite proud of myself for going into week three of 5k training!

Running with my BF & Chip

Long Legged Waldo

Have you ever participated in a plunge or strut? What other types of 5ks have you ran in? I am thinking of signing up for more if this one goes well. Now, I must go because I have many thank you notes to write. 

Happy Monday!

26 Acts of Kindness

Happy New Year's Eve, friends! I've spent the afternoon curled up on the couch watching movies and napping. I think I have this break thing figured out. I've certainly missed my students, but I can't complain about the extra sleep and quality time I've been soaking in this past week. 

While I'm enjoying my relaxing Christmas break, I know that many families are still suffering from the tragic events that happened at Sandy Hook Elementary. My heart has been with those poor families. I wanted to do something, but I wasn't exactly sure what I could do until Ann Curry's tweets stuck out to me. Here's her challenge:

I'm in, Ann. I'm in! Check out the Facebook page here. 

Before I share my first three acts, I must post this disclaimer: I am not posting these for personal praise. I'm simply sharing my participation in hopes to spread the word, and to possibly encourage YOU to take part as well. That being said, here is what I've done so far!

In my bf's apartment building, there is a pretty stingy vending machine, so I stuck $1.25 on the machine with tape and bought a drink for someone. 

For number two, I went down the road to Red Box and taped $2.00 on the machine. Now, I understand that Red Box movies are bought with a debit card, but someone needs that $2 more than me!

For my third act, I bought a $10 gift card for a meal and stuck in on a car windshield. The car and the card were gone this morning, so I hope it was enjoyed!

When Chip (the dog) and I got home from running all over the city, my heart was LEAPING out of my chest. I can't explain it! My spirit was incredibly uplifted and I felt like one of Santa's elves. It only made me want to do more and more and more and more. I have no idea who benefited from these acts, but I can only hope it made them smile. 

This truly was an incredibly way to get a jump start on the new year. I am not rushing to finish my 23 acts, but I'll continue posting as I finish a few. I would love to include my class in on the fun. Since I have 21 students with huge hearts, I know that they would be more than willing to share a little love around the area. 

Have you participated in a "Random Acts of Kindess" challenge? Are you taking on Ann Curry's challenge? Do share!

See you next year! :)