So it’s been a crazy week in the Nation’s capital.  There have been a lot of changes and even more protests.  Last weekend was a blur for me (hence the radio silence here) and I’m just now able to somewhat gather my thoughts about a few things.

I had the opportunity to run for a great cause last weekend.  Four amazing women lead a group of runners from New York City to DC…yes, that’s a LOT of miles.  The goal of the run was to raise money for Planned Parenthood…and no, this is not going where you think it is.  No matter where you (or I) stand on the issue of abortions, Planned Parenthood offers a lot of free and low-cost services to women across the country.  Again, I’m not talking abortions…I’m talking birth control, STD testing, health screenings, and counseling services.  As I prepare to become a first time mom, I’m learning the ins and outs of insurance as it relates to my reproductive health.

(Storytime)  I’m fortunate to currently have insurance through my employer.  Several years ago, I was in a different situation.  I found myself scrambling to afford birth control even though I was employed and the following year, I was priced out of my employer based insurance plan.  While I was able to figure it out, I was serving a low-income population that needed affordable health services (this was before ACA).  I found Planned Parenthood to be a place where my clients could get necessary and affordable health services they needed.

Back to the present…when I heard about the opportunity to serve (donate) AND run the last leg of this journey, I knew I had to be a part.  Yes, it was chilly…yes, it was EARRRRRLY, but we got it done and I’m so happy to have been part of something that will benefit so many.  There’s still an opportunity to donate here by February 1st.

I logged 5 miles that morning…I felt every step after my shower.  The only marching I did afterward was to my bed (I listen more to my body..and Bean these days).  I’ve really been thinking about my values in the last week.  No matter how crazy things may get, I don’t think I will ever be able to adopt an attitude of helplessness (it’s not in my bloodline).  It’s so important to find avenues in which I can affect change and uplift those around us.  I hope Bean is paying attention!

What values have been passed to you?  What values do you hope to pass along?