My first half marathon

Hi there!

There is no good explanation for leaving you unattended for so long.  Though with training for my first half marathon, starting a new job, kids involved in sports, and having the long commute really makes for a good excuse, doesn’t it?

On June 3rd, the world celebrated National Running Day and to honor a day that I did not even know existed, here’s our running adventure (yes, yes, I know, I am a little late to the party but hey, you can’t just not celebrate your accomplishments, right?).

My daughter and I ran yet another race a couple of weeks ago. We did the Snohomish Women’s Run.  We had great weather and everyone, organizers, volunteers and spectators were simply amazing!

Running partners

This was the little one’s second professionally organized 10k. This time she came in 14th place overall (out of 177 runners!) and second place in her age group (13-18 yo).  Her pace, yikes, I don’t even know how she did it, I mean, this kid kicked butt!  She averaged 8:50 per mile.

Lots of training.  Lots of bonding.

Training

Lots of smiles.

Running breaks

Lots of breaks to enjoy the view of the lake and to meditate on what fills our hearts with joy (and to give my Brooks, I mean my feet, some lovin’).

Brooks

My goal was to cross the finish line and though at mile 9 I thought I couldn’t go any longer, I took a little break, got some H2O and that seemed to have helped a lot!  I have always been hesitant about consuming GU but a couple of weeks before the “race” (only racing against myself) I decided to try the caffeine-free lemon flavored GU and it really wasn’t as tasty as I thought it would be but it’s gel, what do ya expect?  I got 3 for the day of the race and took one every 4 miles but since it was my first time running a half marathon, I am not sure if that made a difference.

Now, let’s talk about being competitive! When I saw this picture I couldn’t find words to describe it.  I wanted a catchy phrase but couldn’t come up with anything.  My sister said “Run, Forest, Run”.  I’m just a proud mom!

Little Runner

 

When I crossed the finish line, I couldn’t hold back my tears.  It was a great day and the feeling of accomplishment is one that no one can take away from you.

Snohomish Women's Run

The Snohomish Running Company has other event called Snohomish River Run and the little one and I already signed up for it (I’ve participated in that one before and I loved it).

Until next time… Happy National Running Day (week, month, year?)!