Run Forrest Run!

I haven't written about the big race! Last Sunday was my first half marathon and it was sooooo much fun! I am already planning ahead for the next one! I felt like the mileage was just enough. 13.1 miles is the perfect distance. Enough to challenge yourself but also to enjoy!! ENJOY! That is huge! The weather in Austin, Texas really couldn't have been more perfect. We headed (Lisa and I ) to the start line to meet Ariel at 6:45 am.  We were a little chilly to start due to the clouds and misty air. I will tell you it did not take long before we were warmed up! The course was really flat for the most part with a few small hill climbs along the way.  The weather, the people on the side of the road yelling encouraging words, and the other runners with smiles on their faces. Runners are special people. They love to run, they love the challenge and you get a  sense of family when you are there hitting the pavement.  I don't like to run with earph0nes, water bottles, sweaters, pants or really anything for that matter. For me, the birds, the wind in my hair, the bark of passing dogs, squeals of young-ens, the rhythm of my stride and clean air in my lungs is a peaceful moment for me. On Sunday my senses were full of happiness! :) I also loved watching some people run and their strides. We had ostriches, antelope, grizzlies, ducks and cheetahs. Really, you see all kids of interesting runners out there. Not to say that I have a gorgeous stride by any means, trust me that is not what I am saying at all. With no judgment,  I giggled a lot!! I smile when I think of two in particular.  One lady seriously reminded me of some kind of bird. She had really short hair like my mom and the way she moved was something out of a cartoon and then the man who looked like one of those zombies from the movies with his arms flailing about and strange grunt. You almost wanted to keep yourself guarded in case he wanted to run after you and eat you! ha!!

The day was perfect, just perfect. I was able to catch up with an old friend afterward and we laughed and we cried. Sisters. 

Ariel, let's do it again! I am so proud of you too!! :)

Here's a few photos taken from the race. They aren't the most glamorous but it's proof! I can do it! And will do it again!