I had a really rotten day the other day. It was the kind of day that made me want to crawl into bed and pull the covers over my head, or binge-watch the Great British Baking Show while eating an entire box of Girl Scout cookies. But I didn't do those things. Instead, I laced up my sneakers and headed out for a walk. A WALK.
I laced up my sneakers and headed out for a walk.
Let me back up a little. I have always enjoyed walking, but for the past three months I've been part of a program that has encouraged me to walk more frequently, more mindfully, and when possible, with others. 99 Walks is a movement intended to get women (especially moms) to recognize the power of putting one step in front of the other for health, fitness, friendship, and fun. It's a community of like-minded mamas who set goals, support one another, and walk together, both in-person and remotely. Oh, and 99 Walkers earn awesome "wearable inspiration" for reaching their goals each month.
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Back to my recent terrible, horrible, rotten, no-good, very bad day. If you're a mom, heck, if you're a human, you know that kind of day and the impulses to avoid or wallow that come with it. Before 99 Walks I would have given in to the cookies and the call of my bed. But because of 99 Walks...I walked. I listened to some cathartic music. I cried a little. I focused on my breathing. I noticed the blooming flowers and the blue sky. I needed that particular walk for myself, but I also knew that I had a team and a community to reach out to. I also knew that while there was still some tough stuff to face, but I could tackle it with renewed resilience and a better perspective. The reason I felt that way? I walked.
I do recognize that this example is a tad dramatic. I mean, most days are definitely not terrible. But most days are incredibly busy. Most days I feel pretty tired after doing all the things. Most days I'm lucky to find a few minutes to take care of myself, let alone have any time to connect with a grown-up friend. Most days I simultaneously feel the need to be alone, even while I'm feeling rather lonely. I know this rings true for many, many of you.
In a recent survey of over 2000 moms, 73% of us acknowledged being lonely. 89% of moms want to improve their overall fitness level. 90% want to lose weight.
How can 99 Walks help? You'll learn how to carve out those moments in your day to take care of Mama Bear (yes, it is possible). You'll have the support of other busy women who GET it, including your very own team of three, should you choose to be on a team. You'll get daily tips and motivation, access to the 99 Walks Facebook group, group walk-and-talks, and the soon-to-be-released 99 Walks app and walking classes. You'll move your body, get fresh air, and crush at least 33 miles per month to earn that awesome reward bling.
The April and Spring challenges are now open and enrolling at 99 Walks. The April challenge is just $16 and Macaroni Kid has an exclusive 10% discount code just for you. Or you can sign up for the three month Spring challenge that includes April, May, and June for $40 and still save 10% with the code. Interested in signing up? Go to 99walks.fit and use code: LETSWALK!
Come walk with me!
Yes, you! Join me for one of 3 walking events in conjunction with National Walking Day. A small group of Tucson moms will get together for a leisurely walk and talk at some of my favorite walking spots in Tucson (see below). We will walk (about 30-45 minutes), get to know one another, and learn more about 99 Walks. Plus, there will be a few treats and surprises for the first 10 registered walkers, so sign up soon.
1. Saturday, March 30 at 8:00 AM. Rillito River Walk to the Loop between Swan and Craycroft (more details with e-mail confirmation).
2. Monday, April 1 at 7:30 AM. Sabino Canyon (note $5 parking fee applies if you do not have an annual pass)
3. Wednesday, April 3 at 6:00 PM (National Walking Day). Reid Park walking path.
Register HERE for one of the walks or e-mail me (Kindle) at kindler@macaronikid.com.
Registration is FREE, but required.
Feel free to invite a friend, your sister, your mom, or your co-worker (but make sure they sign up, too so we know who is coming). All walks are stroller-accessible, but if you are able to make this walk just for you, that's great, too!
By participating in this FREE event you will receive:
1. Lots of information about 99 Walks
2. A special gift for every participant
3. A free snack at the end of the walk
4. A chance to meet other moms (in a super fun and low key environment)
5. The opportunity to spend some time outside walking and having fun!
Sign up today to make sure you get a spot! I can't wait to walk with you!
