I was recently reminded that I am not a runner when I watched people lap me during the recent Bitters and Bones Turkey Trot. It didn’t even matter that the race was no longer being timed when I finally made the finish line. The atmosphere was incredible as people gathered together with the singular focus of helping fill food pantries. Though food pantries fun runs are in need to fill people’s stomachs, sometimes it’s just as rewarding to also look for an opportunity to fill people’s souls.

BluSeed Studios is hosting their first annual 5K Ugly Sweater Fun Run/Walk on December 8 with all proceeds to fund free spring break art classes for all area students. Last year BluSeed hosted free spring break art classes and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Children, students, and families had a creative outlet during mud season. Students learned new skills and were creating something, not just being given something.

As we all know, nothing is ever really free. In order to provide free art classes, BluSeed needs people to put their festive layers on and join in the fun. Ugly sweaters are optional. I do realize you can actually purchase ugly sweaters. You can also do what my child did and go into my closet and ask for something to borrow. Yes, that happened and no, she isn’t going to bedazzle one of my cardigans. You can run, walk, or be a crossing guard. Every participant will receive a raffle ticket for handmade BluSeed artisan items. If I’m lucky enough to win, I will be wrapping up those items and putting them under the tree. Shhh, don’t tell.

There is so much going on this holiday season, but I hope you’ll take the time to come to BluSeed, 24 Cedar St, Saranac Lake on December 8. Registration starts at 8:30 am and the run starts at 9 am. Participation fees for the BluSeed Ugly Sweater Fun Run/Walk are $20/adults (with a free commemorative artisan tile), $5/students or leashed dogs, and free for children in strollers. Registration forms can be found online or the day of the event. Donations are always accepted – just make sure to specify it’s for the free art classes. Prizes will be awarded for the top three male and female finishers as well as the ugliest sweater. For more information call BluSeed Studios at 518-891-3799 or go to bluseedstudios.org. See you there!

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Diane Chase is the author of the Adirondack Family Time guidebook series. For more family-friendly activities go to AdirondackFamilyTime.­com.