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Cross Country Run, Barefoot for Charity?“…the only way to accomplish incredible things is to set really ambitious goals…I’m doing this to challenge myself and to raise money to help struggling young people, ” said Knudson. “This cause is dear to me, so to get people’s attention I’m running barefoot.“I love this guy…Tellman Knudson.

Chances are, most of you haven’t heard of him until now, but take notice, because on September 9, Tellman is ditching his shoes as he attempts to become the first person to run across America barefoot… his 3,200+ mile journey begins in Battery Park, New York on September 9…cutie pie will then head west, running the equivalent of one marathon a day. His route follows historic Route 66 for much of the way, with stops in Cleveland, Chicago, St. Louis, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Phoenix and finishing on the pier in Santa Monica, California.

Tellman’s goal? To raise 100 million dollars for homeless youth…he chose Battery Park as his starting point with the Statue of Liberty as the backdrop. “I wanted to include this incredible symbol of liberty, support and acceptance. It is what so many young people need, and something I hope I can give them through my efforts,” said Knudson.It’s easy to see why Richard Branson is supporting Tellman and his run for charity. Tellman is an entrepreneur who has had great success in internet marketing…he is CEO of OvercomeEverything, ListBuildingClub and several others…but, perhaps giving us a glimpse of this man perseverance is the fact that he overcame femoral antiversion, a debilitating leg condition, to compete on his high school cross country running team, setting several school records and competing for the New Hampshire state championship? I have no doubt Tellman is gonna make it cross country just fine.Please visit his website for more info. Run Tellman Run! The worlds watching…

*From Celebrity Athletes Charity Gigs & Gossip

Flashback!!

I went to the hospital today to visit a patient whom my surgeon has had to amputate and found it such a rewarding experience.

I met with a wonderful family as well as a few of my nurses and physical therapist. It was so cool to visit and catch up. I have to say that staying in touch with everyone that made such an enormous impact on my life, medically, has truly made a difference in my recovery. Going backwards, in a healthy way, and learning more of why I am here today just allows me to feel more and more calm about my experience.

I observed my surgeon walking through the halls and the people who would say "thank you" and it made me feel so blessed to be one of the lucky people who had a team that became invested in the person. So cool.

Anyway -- I was also reminded of the Slurpee's I got hooked on in the hospital :-) Ha..I had to give in and indulged in a Coke Slurpee for old times sake. Are 37 year olds' still supposed to enjoy this?

Texas Govenor signs new bill for my friend, Jamie Schanbaum

I just realized how busy this dress of mine has been - ha! Oh well, all for a good cause :-) I was visiting Jamie in her Austin rehab.

At the Texas Capitol last week my 20 year old friend, Jamie, who lost her legs and part of her hands to meningitis this past year had something big to celebrate.

Gov. Rick Perry signed the Jamie Schanbaum bill mandating the meningitis vaccine for some college students. (Under the new law, students can opt out of the vaccine for personal, religious or medical reasons.)

Starting next year all college freshman and transfer students who live on-campus must get the vaccine. Jamie is a former UT student and wants to make sure this doesn't happen to others.

Watch the story and signing here:

http://weareaustin.com/content/fulltext/?cid=24921

CONGRATS Jamie!!! Way to Go.

Expect the Unexpected, Pt. II

,

A few days in 60 degree weather, a great trainer, lakes, mountains, pilates and a little of the unexpected


can do so much for our outlook.







Before the weekend even began, our clan of 8, met the most wonderful little package. We were waiting on a rental car when the voice of a young boy came bursting out. At that moment, we looked over and were introduced to the young Harvey Parry from London.

He had lost both legs and part of his hand from meningitis septicemia. What a fun time we had with him! He had his running legs on so guess who got to chase him - ha! He and I ran in circles until he went sideways. It was so neat to meet him and his family. You can read more about him at http://www.harveyparry-appealfund.com/pages/Harvey.htm. He has been on quite the media circuit for such a young chap :)

Then, it was on to a fun time with friends and beautiful scenery. We even had jokes that were actually funny and good food. Donna, my pilates trainer (ok, she does train others but I wanted to claim her this weekend, as did everyone) was chosen to perform with a few others, in front of approx. 100 people. She did an amazing job!!!!

I'm really not sure what I would do without people around me who are motivating, supporting and see me for ME, nothing else. Build your circle and allow yourself spontaneous events and unexpected friendships. We grow and understand others, ourselves, and life so much better.

Love, Jen

Expect the Unexpected

So, Nick & I were at the Paul McCartney concert last night and WOW. What a night.

I can't imagine what it must have been like to see him during the Beatles. He had 3 encores which lasted a while. It was fabulous. The great thing is he is still moving and rockin' like he is in his 20's and the audience was such a vast mix of younger people. It was truly amazing!!!

While we are there, my trainer surprises Nick & I by pulling me away for the weekend!! She is involved with a Pilates workshop in California with pretty great people & decided I needed to go. What a great friend she is :-). So, Nick & I are getting my things together at the moment and I'm headed to a plane in an hour. Talk about last minute & total spontaneous decision.

Anyway...I will be in Pilates heaven for a few days so I will catch up with you from Cali. Nick is holding down the fort, thanks babe.

Love & Peace,
Jen