A recap of my marathon journey…
As a young child I would watch the infamous Grandma’s marathon every year in awe of these amazing athletes, every day people, and runners who decided one day that they would RUN 26.2 miles. I can attest to the fact that this dream derives NO WHERE from a simple place. This dream isn’t about a sticker on a car, a medal around your neck, or a bib number you file away for a rainy day.
This dream comes from within, and it is safe to say very few have this dream/goal in their midst. But this dream is very alive for those who train to finish 26.2 miles. The desire is in your gut, and it drives your heart, mind, and body to keep moving forward.
After years of suffering from Patella femoral syndrome, as well as arthritis and Chondromalacia of the patella I knew I couldn’t train for this goal pain free. See here for more information: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000452.htm
I struggled, but trained smart (for the most part) in my opinion. My only down fall was possibly training with a full marathon group with that marathon being scheduled 3 weeks prior to the CM12. But I can’t look back with regret now. I trained…with every ounce of my being, to be able to finish this race. And you know what? I met lifelong friends during this training process that I wouldn’t trade for a sub 5 marathon. Ever.
I wanted to finish “strong.” I wanted my 4:40 finish that held true to my times and pace my entire 10 months of training. I wanted…but didn’t achieve this goal.
But, that’s ok…because guess what? I finished. Did I have a stellar race? Nope. Did my body want to run 26.2 miles on the 7th of October? HELL NO. But even at the brink of collapsing due to sheer pain, I. Kept. Running. Maybe it was a shuffle to some at a 12 minute mile pace, but it was running to me.
I have a photo that captures my determination perfectly…
And a photo that shows the tears of joy in my eyes.
The best part? I got to share this journey with newfound friends, lifelong friends, and my family. I am now I different person in a way…in lots of ways I can honestly say. Because even on the darkest of days, no one can take crossing that finish line hand in hand with my sister, away from me. I could have quit…I could have succumbed to the day, the weather ( I could NOT warm up, AT ALL), and the pain I felt…But I didn’t QUIT. I. KEPT. RUNNING. If I never am able to run another full marathon I am totally at peace with that…as long as I can run, be me, and live my life, I know nothing can stop me now.
Lastly, my new goal is to do a minimum of 100 situps per day, for the rest of the month. I hope to achieve 200+ daily and get my body back to where it was before this madness.
Rock on friends. Rock. On.
Movin' it with Michelle 
Way to go get it! Remember, you're part of the .01%.
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it is so awesome you did it!
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Every time I read about yor journey I get so motivated! And that first photo: that's pure determination, girl! Love it!
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I loved reading your recap! And especially love the pictures…they both speak a thousand words.
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Wow. That's an awesome story. Very inspiring. More people should try running a marathon at least once (or twice) in their lives.
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I think you did an awesome job and if you never run another marathon at least you had the experience Good luck on your new adventures!
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So awesome! You did great and 26.2 is a really big goal and you DID IT!!!
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Inspiring post! Congratulations!
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I am glad to see that one goal just feeds into another one! Great photos for a great achievement!
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Wonder what that guy is thinking as you fly by him? 100 sit-ups a day, don't put that thought in my head!!!!
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You may have run that marathon for yourself, Lady M……but it seems like you're doing enoughs it-ups for BOTH OF US! All kidding aside, you are such an inspiration to all around you, and I feel like a better person for being able to get to know you through our blogs. I was SOOOOOO proud of you for finishing THIS PART of your journey (because believe me, you're DEFINITELY not done!), and I'm so excited for whatever comes next.Keep up the good work…..you're AMAZING! :>)
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