Thirteen...My New Lucky Number?

The musician in me is constantly searching for patterns in the world around me and I have recently stumbled onto another pattern...of sorts.

First the big news that lead me to this discovery. Last week I was chosen as a member of 2011 Heels and Hills "Lucky 13" Run Team. I accidentally stumbled onto the Heels and Hills group in May 2009 when I was looking for a spring half marathon. I found a wonderfully supportive group of runners and walkers lead by Paula Robertson and Libby Jones. The more I learned about this group, the more I fell in love with their mission--to get people active in a fun and non intimidating environment. I participated in two of their half marathons and found my half marathon personal record during the May event. So naturally I was interested when they announced that they were taking applications for the Lucky 13 Run Team. As you know, I made a commitment to fitness several years ago and it has changed my life. I believe that everyone can enjoy the same benefits if they find an activity that they enjoy and get moving. Running and endurance sports have become a passion of mine and I love to help others get started and find some of the same rewards that I have. The Lucky 13 would provide me with a perfect opportunity to reach out to others. So I submitted my application and waited to hear the results. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I received word early last week that I was chosen. Now I can't wait to get started--let's get out there and get people moving! Stay tuned for more details about the Lucky 13.

After the Lucky 13 brought the number to mind, I started to notice a common theme. My favorite racing distance is the half marathon (13.1 miles), I have run 13 half marathons, I am a member of the Lucky 13, and I am beginning the 13th year of my music therapy practice. Crazy, huh? I think that I have discovered my new lucky number.

I will be embarking on my 14th half marathon this weekend. The Hottest Half is coming up on Sunday and I am certain that it will live up to its name. The daily highs have hovered in the low 100s over the last few weeks around here, typical of early August. The Hottest Half is one of the hardest races of the year, but I always welcome it because it is usually the last of the hot weather races. I am not a graceful summer runner and I am looking forward to having these days behind us. That first cool morning is going to be amazing...and it isn't too far away!