It was a fun experience but it was also painful one for me.
I was honestly surprised to see the dense sea of red when we walked into the circle. It was overwhelming but I had Holly C. and Lesley there to support me. I have to admit, when I first decided that I wanted to run, I was intimidated by runners. I had this idea in my head it was an inner circle of athletes and you had to be the best to roll with the best. WRONG. Runners are some of the nicest and most supportive people I have ever met. Today just confirmed what I already knew.
So to the actual part where I run...walk...hobble? Whatever, I crossed the finish line.
The first mile wasn't so bad but my inner calves began to hurt and tense up on me. This has been a problem for me for the past week. So we dropped down our intervals and tried to chug on. Yes it hurt (a lot) but Lesley got me through it. At about 2.5 miles I wanted to just cry it hurt so much but I kept going. I don't care that I walked more than desired because I did not give in to the pain in my legs. I finished the run which is what I came to do! That is what matters. I know Lesley wanted me to hit 40 minutes but my personal goal was to hit under an hour. We ran across the finish line at 50:15!
We finished without the police chasing us, we weren't last, there were more Santas behind us than when we began and we beat the present to the finish line. And I got a free massage to remove the knot. Now, THAT is a great start to a Saturday morning!
With the boys before the run.
Can you find Santa?
The Littles and Daddy hit up Dunkin' Donuts while Mama ran.
The Santa Posse.
A little love from Colorado
"Run! Don't let the present pass us."-Lesley
(This was actually taken before the race started.)
Lesley and I crossing the finish line.
(Remind me to NEVER tie a huge coat around my hips while wearing two pairs of pants and running next to Lesley.)
Little Man found Santa and asked him to bring him a bike for Christmas.
In the end, I am proud of what I did today. I am proud that I was able to overcome the pain in my legs and finish. I am proud the present didn't beat me to the finish and I am thankful for having such an awesome Coach.
Now I need to get ready to rock the New Years Double in 3 weeks.
40:00 - BRING IT!
