Motivational Mondays (Feb. 8)

I'm back home now, recovering from my race and relishing my accomplishment.

Just thinking about the race gives me goosebumps!

If you haven't read the race report, scroll down or click here. I inadvertently left something out of my race report though, so I'll put it here and insert into the race report.

I left out what happened the moments after crossing the finish line.

...

...cruised into the final.

I raised my arms high above my head and tried to smile. I wasn't sure if that would make for a good picture, nor when exactly the camera would take the shot, so I held my pose for several seconds.

After my legs slowed down to a walk, it struck me.

I just ran a marathon.

I was walking around in a haze. My legs were suddenly screaming and I knew I had to start getting some fluids and food inside of me. I grabbed a banana and inhaled it, then got a bag of assorted goodies - an apple, bars, fig newton, water - and started to chow down. I had no phone signal for some reason so I couldn't call Mrs. LB to see where she and the girls were. It was quite a long walk until I was out from the finishing area, and two thoughts raced through my mind.

I ran a marathon.

This is something that nobody can ever take away from me.

****

I was tired and didn't realize until well after I published the post that I'd neglected to add that.

Anyway, on to today's post.

Running has been an eye-opening experience in more ways than one. It's something I do by myself obviously - nobody runs for me but me - but I don't do it alone. I run with a very supportive group of runners, and I run knowing that I have a supportive group of people out there as well, both my friends and family and my beloved blogging community.

There were several times during the race that I thought to myself "I can't not finish this race; I won't let anyone down."

I was so encouraged by everyone's well wishes in person, on here and on Facebook and elsewhere. I have a fantastic support group and I thank and cherish each and every one of you.

And I know when I run Marathon No. 2 - and there will be a Marathon No. 2, hopefully soon - I will have everyone's support once more.

And I promise, I won't let any of you down.