Two weeks ago I had an amazing run! It was Wednesday morning, right before Thanksgiving, and it was dark and cold. I knew we were going to be driving for 9 hours that day so I was determined to get my run in. I got out the door and was immediately met by nasty cold so I started running really fast-well, fairly fast, and I thought “I am going to burn out quickly if I keep this up, but if I don’t move fast I am going to lose body parts to frost bite.” So I continued…(now a little disclaimer here, it probably wasn’t below freezing, but I love tropical weather so it felt like frozen death to me.)
When it is early and dark I do the same safe run-well lit main street down to the local grocery store and back, so there are only two directions, there and back. All the way down the road I felt like I was floating along. It felt easy and great. Then I turned around to come back home and it hit me-a wall of wind-a brick wall of cold intense wind that was trying to push me back. I laughed at myself for having thought I was super woman all the way down to the stop light. The wind had been helping me along and I didn’t realize it until it was no longer at my back. Now I had to struggle and fight my way back. It was hard at first, then I found my rhythm again and my breathing went back to normal and the wind no longer bothered me but actually felt good as it blew against my sweaty face and arms and filled my lungs.
I thought about the wind and life. We often go floating along and things are good, great even, and we forget the wind that is carrying us along. It isn’t until tragedy or challenges come up that we remember or even recognize that we are being carried and lifted up. Sometimes it is necessary for our growth, our understanding, to face the wind and run against it. Sometimes hitting that wind benefits us in ways we hadn’t thought of before.
So these were my thoughts on life and then…..last week my entire family got sick-some awful flu on steroids. And I kept hearing my own voice telling me about the wind and how it would make me stronger, make me grateful and even work for my good. We were all making good use of ALL the bowls in our house (I think you understand my reference) and we were sore and tired and week so I focused on what I could do. Thankfully I was able to care for my family even when really sick, we had all we needed to care for the comfort and well being of our kids, and we are all on the mend.
This experience has re-taught me some important things. First is compassion towards others who are sick-to be patient and kind because it hurts and is crummy. Second I was reminded that I can do difficult things because God will help me when I ask. Third I was reminded how grateful I am for each family member and just how much they are a part of my joy. Last of all I realized how much I enjoy and need my runs (not the flu kind-sorry bad humor) for sanity-I enjoy being healthy and strong!!! I love the little parables life teaches me.
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I loved running the half marathon this year!! The course was diverse, well laid out, and clearly marked. All the volunteers were cheerful and helpful. I loved the food at the end, the music and the great energy and enthusiasm of all those involved. It was very evident that great care and thought went into every detail of this fantastic race. A big thank you to everyone who put so much time and effort into making this race a great experience!! Each succeeding year of this race gets better and better--I look forward to next year!
I had a blast. The course was well laid out and the stations were a great sight to see. The finish line was set up wonderfully. The after food, music, stretch tables and crowd were very welcoming. Thank you for everything. I really can't wait till next year.
My first Marathon! This was a great experience, extremely well marked course not only that but someone at every turn cheering you on was great, big thanks to them! Aid stations lots of them, after mile 20 my belt was empty and I was almost running on empty, they relly helped me finsh, they had everything I was even able to get a gel packet. I will run it again, and would recommend it to anyone. Thank you!
I do travel out-of-state for races from time to time and when I heard about this one, I had to participate. From the amazing/scenic course to the incredible volunteers, friendly participants & spectacular weather, I'd have to give kudos for a job well done. You guys just keep rocking it like you are and it won't forsake you. I hope to be back next year!
This was my first race ever and it could not have been any better! The energy on the course was amazing, everyone cheering each other on was inspiring. Having a pacer helped me complete my half marathon in my goal time! The whole event was well planned and a fun day all around, can't wait to do it again!!
The race was awesome. A really beautiful course. So many kind volunteers cheering us on along the way. Lots of free yummy food at the end. Also live music, physical therapists to help you stretch afterward. The t-shirts were great. My friends from Georgia and I are planning to make this our memorial day tradition!
Great event! I just ran the half today! The race seemed well organized and the course is fast and flat as described and runs through lovely neighborhoods and parks, nicely shaded, lots of beautiful trees and greenery, etc. Loved the venue for the start and finish. Loved the free hot dog or burrito option at the end for participants and BTW the "dawg's" were great and the fellow that owns and runs the hot dog stand was really cool!! He even took the time to snap a few pics of my friend and I for us. Enjoyed the live music while we were eating and waiting for award announcements. I would definitely run this race again and since I won a free race entry (division award) I plan to do just that next year!
This was a very well organized marathon, especially for an inaugural one! Beautiful and fast course. I got a new PR! Great support along the course, especially in the last hard miles. The race director even ran with me for a little bit. :-) I would definitely recommend it. It was small being it's first year but I expect to see it grow a lot in the coming years.
