Just kidding. I’m not running away, although the thought crosses my mind at least once a day, usually during family meal time. The last time I threatened to run away – after an absurd level of dinner-related whining from the kids – my six-year-old reassured the family that I won’t ever truly get away, because he could “totally keep up on his bike, especially since Mom is, like, a really slow runner.”

He’s right. I am slow. So if – and I’m just what-iffing here, of course – I do run away one day, I’ll probably take the car.

You know what’s great for those days when you do have one hand on your suitcase and the other hand reaching for the car keys? Exercise, that’s what. Oh, stop rolling your eyes at me (I’m looking at you, Mom). I get it; I know it’s extra annoying to hear fit people talk about how great they feel after a workout.

But this isn’t like that! For starters, I’m not really all that fit. I ate DOTS for dinner last night. Clearly, I am the last person to give you a fitness lecture. And yet… in spite of my many shortcomings, I am passionate about incorporating exercise into my life. It’s kind of a necessity when your favorite food group is sugar, followed closely by salt.

The truth is, exercise alone doesn’t thrill me. Training for a race, however, especially when I’m part of a group with similar goals? Now that is fun. Really. Those famous endorphins are not a myth, and coupled with some great conversation and laughs, well, it’s good stuff. That’s why, even though I’m not a naturally gifted athlete, I love (truly love – I’m not exaggerating) training. It also helps me remember to eat better, which is a benefit.

And that’s why I could not pass up the chance to be an ambassador for the ZOOMA Women’s Race Series. Specifically, I’m an ambassador for the Texas race, coming up in March at the gorgeous Hyatt Regency Lost Pines. Check out this video (and then keep reading – ZOOMA is giving away race registration and spa treatments for you and a friend).

[Yeah, so I cannot get the video to embed. I’ll keep working on it. For now, click here to watch Run to ZOOMA Texas on YouTube.]

So come on, run away with me. To the Hyatt, where there is a spa. Sure, I kind of expect you to also run with me. Just think how much better that spa treatment will feel with a race finish under your belt.

Want to win a couple race entries and massages? Go here, to the ZOOMA Run to Texas Giveaway and follow the directions.

I’ll see you at the race in March. Right? That’s the spirit! Lace up those shoes and start training. Go on now…