I did it!!

Wow, what an experience! Evolving from a girl who wouldn't even run the mile without stopping in high school, to a woman who has completed a half and now full marathon, I just feel so blessed! Although my foot issue nearly caused me to sideline the marathon this year, it ended up only hurting for the first few miles and then went numb or something- making it a non-issue for pretty much the whole race. The last five miles were definitely a tough mental experience, but overall I am really happy with how well I did. I crossed the finish line with a smile on my face and my wonderful husband there to cheer me on, who could ask for more?!

Rick got a perfect spot near the finish line to catch me coming up the hill. Check me out giving the older gentleman next to me a run for his money! :)

Rounding the corner for the final steps!

After making my way through the finishers area, gathering my warming blanket, medal, a rose, had my picture taken, and taking any food they would give me, I found my amazing husband waiting for me in the reunion area.
Man, was I tired and stinky! Walking to the van was interesting, too. Once I'd stopped moving, my body was not happy about having to move again! :)

Woo hoo!!!
(Notice my shirt... I couldn't resist wearing my In N' Out Burger shirt as inspiration. Too bad I couldn't have one right after I finished!)

I love the kick-butt finishers shirt so much that I had to model it!


I feel like I can conquer almost anything now... I would definitely love to improve on my time at some point (This year's goal was to simply finish, however I was SO CLOSE to getting under 5 hours, that would have been icing on the cake.) I would do several things differently in training again, I am so grateful for the experience and all the support I've received from family and friends! Thank you!!

So, now I'm sensing a mini triathlon in my future... distant future, but someday. :)
Oh yeah, for those of you interested, my time was:

5 hours, 5 minutes, and 57 seconds