Warrior Dash 2012

I've signed up to run a 5k on August 25, 2012 called Warrior Dash.   Apparently it is 3.1 miles of obstacle course involving barbed wire, open flame, mud and various other obstacles intended to ruin your day.  While I admit this will be physically daunting, it also looks like a lot of fun if you watch the linked video.  I mean who doesn't enjoy following up potentially fatal (no, really, I had to sign a waiver in case I die) physical exertion with red meat and beer?

My new-found enthusiasm for physical rigor results from a lifestyle change I made around December.  The changes involve diet and an exercise plan.  Since I've made the changes I feel a lot better, mentally and physically.  I ran today (albeit it was only across my front lawn), and I actually felt strong, like my body wanted to keep going.  Usually I feel like either a) my knees or ankles are ready to give out at any moment, or b) my heart (pancreas, liver, gall bladder, etc.) is going to explode.  Lately I just feel a lot better.

St Jude's sponsors the event.  In case you didn't know, St. Jude's is the patron saint of desperate cases, as well as a children's hospital.  My wife's cousin, Katherine McVey was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in December of 2005.  She passed away on March 18, 2007.  Katherine was an extraordinary young person, and St Jude's offered care, support and hope for Katherine and her family during the ordeal.  I made a pledge to raise $250 by August 25, 2012.  If you can help by donating I would appreciate it.  Just click the St. Jude's link to pledge in my name.