Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Disneyland half marathon


Running my first half marathon was an awesome experience. The training and dedication was so much more than I thought it was going to be... I complained and struggled, but I did it. We spent two days touring and walking Disneyland the days before the marathon... probably not the best way to rest your muscles, but we couldn't wait to take the boys. Sunday morning I headed out for the starting line. Being surrounded by all those people is really thrilling and motivating. I was hopeful the adrenaline would carry me through. It took me 25 minutes to even get to the starting line... and then we were off! My goal was to at least run for the first 6 miles, and then walk if I needed to. Well, I ran straight for the first 11 miles and then I just didn't think I could go anymore... the pain in my feet was horrible. So I stopped to walk a bit - which made it worse. My legs felt like jello... but then I picked myself up and ran some more. The last two miles were a walk/run combo, but I finished strong and ran through the finish line. Running through an empty Disneyland/CA adventure was exciting, but my two favorite parts were around mile 9 - running on the field of the Angels stadium. The crowed cheering, your picture on the big screen, and "California Gurlz" bumping on my ipod. I felt like a rock star! (then unfortunately my ipod died - my least favorite part of the run). As I almost hit mile 13, I saw my boys and Robert cheering me on. I ran by and Ezra gave me a high five. It really put a pep in my step. I was so proud, and happy that they were there to share in my experience. My hope is that they will always be proud of me and that I will be a positive example to them and show them the importance of taking care of yourself. Most importantly I hope to teach them that no matter what, you can do anything you set your mind to. I may not be the most fit, the fastest, but I made a committment and I followed through. I pushed my mind and my body further than it had ever been before... I said I wouldn't do it again, but now I'm not so sure. It feels pretty amazing.