It was a journey filled with races, training, injury, and yes...even a few tears. It was a journey full of encouragement from my amazing running group and reflection on those long solo runs. A journey that would test my patience, my endurance and my follow through.
I ran races with friends and learned that I deserved more.
I got my kids involved; teaching them to value themselves and to be strong.
I trained hard and made my miles count. I respected the run and the dedication that it took. I stuck with my training through sickness, vacation, injury and a busy life with 6 kids. I made it happen.
Every day, every mile I ran led up to this day. The day when I would embark on a 13.1 mile journey. I had a goal of finishing my race in 2 hours, and my training runs set me up perfectly. Unfortunately shortly before my race I injured my left leg. After resting things felt sore, but I was still confident that I would be able to reach that goal.
The day was here - Disneyland Half Marathon. A Disney race isn't complete without a little costume. :)
Like so many runs before, I ran with my heart. When I reached mile 9 and realized I would not make my 2 hour goal I dug deep and remembered what a friend told me, "Every first race, no matter the distance should always be about fun, not about time." So that's what I did...I made a new goal to finish strong and with a smile on my face. And of course I had to throw a little time goal in there; to finish ahead of my 2:15 pacer. ;)
There is nothing quite like running in the dark through a Disney park and watching the sunrise.
Then it was on to Honda Center and also the Angels Stadium (Go Giants! HeeHee!) The spectators along the course were so supportive. So many "Stranger, I'm Proud of You" signs. Signs for "Free Hugs". High fives from cast members and strangers alike. There really is no better feeling than having complete strangers get up at the crack of dawn with you, just to line the streets with their classic cars and cheer you on.
And here it is. The moment I waited and worked so hard for. 13.1 miles - finished! 2:10:08
Training for and then completing a 13.1 mile race is no joke. It takes dedication, strength and a mind-set like no other. There aren't many things in my life that I've done solely for myself that I'm this proud of. While it was ME out on that course, I did not do this alone. Without the support of my husband - who stayed home with the kids, no questions asked for more runs that I can count. For my running group, where I have met the most supportive and wonderful friends. For my dear friend who has inspired and supported me through my journey.
I did it. I ran Disney. I crushed 13.1 miles before breakfast. And I truly loved every single mile of this journey.
