So...many many moons ago, I ran the St. George Marathon. I wanted so much to blog about it but never found the time to describe that experience. It was unlike any race I've ever participated in. No race has left me on at least a 2 week high like that one did :) and no race has made me love and believe in running like that one did. It still makes me excited when I think about that cool experience. There were so many times during the race when I felt tangible support from Heavenly Father or my family and my friends.
I was more scared before the race began than I've been doing almost anything...but right after I crossed the Start line, I felt peace and knew this was my race, that I would be able to do it, and that God was with me. The course was better than I could have imagined. It was gorgeous and the rolling hills accompanying the downhill trend was perfect for a first timer...perfect for anyone, but definitely encouraging for this little runner. At mile 17, I started to cry. Anyone whose run something like that knows there are emotions that come, specific to the experience, which are hard to really explain. I knew I would finish the race and couldn't believe I was going to be able to really run and finish a marathon. It was so encouraging seeing all the posters and signs for folks. Each one seemed to be for me, cheering me on...even the ones encouraging parents. I'd look to the sky each time I saw one and would think, "thanks kids, I know you're up there! We're going to talk about this someday!"
My friend Bret came to cheer me on at the end. He had family running the race, but he ran the last part with me...it was perfect...right when I really needed the encouragement!
Hope you enjoy this video Bret took of me at the end. I had a mile left...definitely ready to finish, but really happy to have run the race. So glad to have this memory!
