Motivational Motivation

It’s amazing how a good upbeat song can helps me get motivated. I’ve compiled the best playlist (for me) on my iPod chock full o’ good tunes from Shins, Modest Mouse, Belle and Sebastian, Jurassic 5, Run DMC, et al. It seems to know just when I’m about to get tired and picks a song I just can’t help moving to. A little motivation definitely goes a long way.

Guess it’s the same with worthy causes. All it takes is a little momentum and energy to see good ideas really take off. OHMH is such a cool example of how talented and passionate people can come together to do amazing work. Everything starts with a spark, a good idea that leads to changes for the better.

Thomas came home from a vacation in Kenya inspired to round up his friends to help raise money for a man he met on his journey. Anthony decided to open his home to young orphaned girls, leaving behind a successful journalism career, after meeting a child alone in the streets of Mombasa.

From these two ideas, OHMH as born. Over 30 girls have a chance at a better life in a loving family and countless people around the globe get to share in their joy. Everyone involved in the organisation is a volunteer, giving their own time and good ideas to help give a group of young girls a better life.

From house parties to art sales, newsletters and Facebook groups to personal appeals, OHMH is a little organisation doing a lot of big work. Last November, they raised over $40K in just a month! Outstanding!
So, along with my rockin’ soundtrack I should keep remember that I’m trying to do my part to raise money for the girls. That should put a little extra spring in my step!

3.5K and No Sleeves!

Well, I have been running, just not blogging for a while because we were out of town and then I got sick. Today was a great day, I finally feel moderately normal and the sun is shining! I did 3.5K around the neighborhood–a mix of run, walk, stop to blow my nose. It is a lovely warm, dry day and I was actually outside in short sleeves today. I think that’s the first time in about 4 months!

Things I’m learning:

• Stretching is important, but I get very bored doing it
• Wearing heels and walking at least 5K around London is a bad idea, you get massive blisters and sore feet (but hey, it is worth every blister to explore a new city…even in the rain
• A big breakfast tastes much better after a good run!