My 1st Half Marathon

This morning I got up at 5 am so I could get ready to put my body through the grueling task of running a half marathon (13.1 miles.) I must admit I was nervous and not really sure if my quickly aging body would cooperate. I've only been "training," if you want to call it that, for about a month now and the longest distance I completed prior to today was a 10k. I probably would have bowed out if it wasn't for my husband who often overestimates my athletic potential. He had confidence in my ability to do this, but I wasn't so sure. Well, he talked me into it, even taking care of all the registering business. Then the last two days I had the worst head cold pain imaginable and yesterday morning I was seriously questioning what I had gotten myself into. I stayed in bed yesterday all drugged up on cold medicine. Thankfully, when I woke up this morning, I felt so much better. We were able to wake the kids up without too many complaints, and after we bundled them up in gloves and caps, drove downtown to the starting line. The energy was incredible. It was surreal running past the Empress Hotel where only a week shy of 10 years to this day Clint and I honeymooned here in Victoria. Who would have thought I'd be running in the Royal Victoria Half Marathon back then. Not me. And there were so many people (thousands)We took a few family pictures, Clint prayed for my run, I kissed my babies good-bye and then it was time to run. I ran. And ran. And ran. It mas a Forest Gump experience for me, people. It was hard. By the last couple of km, my bones were aching and I did want to stop and walk. Of course that's just about the time everyone on the sidelines is telling you how close you are to the finish. I also realized how my posture deteriorates when I get really tired. Not a few people were encouraging me to stand taller, of which I am most appreciative because it looks really awkward to be running all hunched over. The best part was definitely the finish. To run across the timing pad and see your time. (mine was not bad for my first HM 2:32) An announcer even called my name as I ran across the line. And then a lady put a finishing medal around my neck. It was then I realized that I had actually accomplished my goal. I did it! I finished! I am glad I tried. This was a positive experience for me. I am thankful for my husband who encouraged me to try, and for Ethan, Laurel, and Malcolm who rooted me on from the sidelines. Now, where did I put that bottle of ibuprofin? I hear it calling my name.