Isn't it purdy?!

Isn't it purdy?

I did it...again. All the excitement, nerves and HARD work certainly paid off. While I am my own worst critic, I only shaved off 13 minutes from the half last October. It wasn't as much as I wanted, but in the end I felt stronger, more confident, and empowered to beat that time (when? I have no idea--but I will be shooting for 2:20 for my next race). 


This race meant so much to me. Last year, I was in a different place. I was running to focus back on me. I wanted to lose myself in the runs rather than losing myself in grief. I wanted so badly to have something else take the place of the pain I was feeling and sure enough wearing the wrong shoes, running in HOT weather, and being a 1st-timer, I accomplished that. But it was more than that, I had two wonderful friends show me something that I didn't know existed. Being with them showed me that yes, I could do what I thought was unthinkable. I could finish a half marathon. It didn't matter if I ran a quarter of it or not, the fact that I started it AND finished it was an accomplishment in itself. They were there to listen to me whine, lift me up when I was feeling down, and cheer me on whenever I passed a HUGE milestone. 


I ran this race with some of the most special women in my life in mind. I ran for April & Rachel. I wanted to prove to them that no matter how big or small my goals, I could do it. I have such admiration for all they do. It was a way for me to honor them. I ran for my mom. She helped me through some of my long runs and she helped me through this one. She is my guardian angel and I hope that I can make her proud for all of my accomplishments. I ran for my sisters, my mother-in-law and several friends, who have all been through so many different life experiences---and each of them handled theirs with amazing strength and grace. It was for ALL of these women and more that I ran for. 


I was an emotional mess as I turned that corner and saw the big FINISH archway. It had all come down to this. Hundreds of screaming people pushing me on--and the loudest of the bunch: April & Rachel. They knew I'd be sobbing--heck I was already teary at mile 4! I can't put into words all the amazing feelings I had. I am humbled that I can finally consider myself a runner. I still have my moments where I don't think I belong alongside them and they are there to knock some sense back into me. I am just eternally grateful for everything they have done to help me realize who I am and what I mean to people. 


And to all the other women in my life: I really couldn't have done it without you all. You all mean so much to me that I hope to continue to honor you in whatever way I know how. The sweat, pain, and tears are worth every bit for having you all in my life. 


Now, let's do this again EVERY year. :)