If your kids are some of the hundreds that will be converging upon the American Heart Association's Heart Run 2009 this Saturday, why don't you join in the fun?

We are fortunate here in Anchorage to have Running Clubs established in many of our elementary schools, giving kids the opportunity to check out the sport of running, culminating in the Heart Run, our first "big run" of the season.

The nice thing about running is that not much is required as far as equipment; shoes, socks, pants or shorts, and a shirt. Most of us can do that. Not much skill is required either; kids who can walk can run, even if it is slow.

My older son and I used to go jogging every once in a while. At that 'tween age when moms are nothing if not an embarrassment, running gave us some common ground. I found he talked more willingly if we were side-by-side and not facing each other as we trotted around the neighborhood in all sorts of weather. It is one activity we both could do, even with his lack of coordination due to the Asperger Syndrome he deals with every day.

Our youngest, now four, loves to run. In fact, we need to reign him in every once in a while from trying to race in every fun run Anchorage has to offer. But we love that he loves it, and as he grows, so will his enjoyment. We hope.

It's a good opportunity to talk with your kids while you both are sucking air and watching out for moose. That kind of time you can't get back...