I cannot even begin to describe what a wonderful experience this was for me. I started training for this marathon the weekend after Thanksgiving. So, if you do the math, it took me about 4 and 1/2 months. In that time span, I have learned to both love and hate running... but I think I have ended up on the love end of it. Doing this has taught me more than just the love of running. It has taught me that I am capable of more than I think, and that it isn't all about winning or going the fastest, but doing your best and being happy while doing it. ( As Anna told me....Mama, you are not a Kenyan!)
My goal was to finish with no broken bones in my feet (which I wasn't so sure that was going to happen since I am EXTREMELY flat-footed), and to cross the finish line with a smile on my face! I accomplished both of these, thanks to my BFF, Monica, and had such a great time doing it! While this will probably be the one and only marathon for me, I will definitely keep running and I might just have a new running partner! Brian said he will do a half with me in the fall!!!!
I know we still look so fresh, but this is mile 9!
Mile 18... we had had a tough few miles!!! Thanks for the support girls!!!
Down the shoot!
Monica,
I don't even know how to say thank you to you!
You are such a wonderful friend and I am sure God has brought you into my life to show me how to be a better person. I never would have even thought about running a marathon if you hadn't suggested it! The half was going to be a push for me, but you said I could do the whole 26.2 and I believed you. Thank you for spending your Saturday mornings with me, running and talking. I don't think the training for this could have been more enjoyable!
You know you are blessed with a true friend when you are inspired to be better every time you are around them. I have that in you.
Thank you! I love you!!!