Marathon Mayhem and Memories

I believe it makes life adventurous to have a bucket list.  For me, my list is comprised of both personal goals and dreams (that may or may not come to fruition).  On Sunday, May 1 one of my personal goals was completed.  With the support of my running buddy, Andrew, and the amazing support and love of my family and friends, I was able to finish my first full marathon.

Andrew and I began training in the cold air of January.  We followed closely a 15 week training schedule that adequately prepared us for the strenuous 26.2 mile course.  Little did we know that training in the cold air of winter would get us ready for a crazy weather day in May.

It began raining at 5:45am as we walked toward to starting gates and it rarely stopped throughout the morning.  In addition to the steady rain, we also had the pleasure of "enjoying" a northerly wind and some hail stones.  To my surprise, my body responded to my training and felt good the entire race.  Andrew and I were even able to give a smile for the camera!

Andrew - having run in a marathon last year - tried to emphasize to me the importance of encouragement from others throughout the race.  I thought I understood what he meant; but, I really had no idea.  As I ran through the cold rain and wind, there were times that I started to slow down or even shut down.  But at just the right time my family would show up with shouts of encouragement.  My favortie part was the signs they made!  I am so grateful that they were willing to brave the weather to cheer us on!

In the end it was exhilirating to cross that finish line. Andrew and I received our metals and promptly went and consumed two cheeseburgers each! I will never forget this day of accomplishing this goal, the love and support of my family and the discipline it took to finish.