hobble creek half

I ran the Hobble Creek Half Marathon yesterday with Kim and Rache. As we were waiting to start, I looked around at the thousand people there, thinking "We are all crazy! Who runs 13 miles for fun?!"

But, it honestly was fun.

Sure, I thought I was going to die several times during the race. But I didn't :)

Running with great friends made the world of difference. I would never want to run this long by myself.

My goal was to finish in under 2 hours. I've never been a fast runner, so this was pushing it. Well thanks to Rachel and Kim for pushing me so hard, I finished in 1:56! I was beyond thrilled! That's a 8:51 average pace which is faster than I've ever run! Wahoo!

{last .5 mile...right after I crossed the finish line...and then when I saw my time!}

I had the most wonderful support group. It meant so much to me to have my family and my in-laws there to cheer me on. They were staggered at 3 different spots during the last mile and boy, did I need their encouragement! That last mile felt like 10, and I would be lying if I said I didn't get a little teary when I saw them :) Thanks again family!

Now, Travis deserves his own little shout out. The picture above (bottom left corner) is just one example of the many thoughtful things he did for me. The night before, he washed, folded and laid out all my running gear for me along with the cutest good luck note. I sure love him, and am so lucky to have his amazing support!

{We couldn't resist taking a few shots of the babes together...who knows, you may see this on their wedding video}

Yesterday, I learned that I could push myself more than I ever thought possible. And that feels so good. Such an sense of accomplishment! I can't wait for the next one :)