I know it’s annoying to be the person who drones on about running, but I ran in the Boston Marathon and it was epic in so many ways it’s worth talking about it over and over! It’s a runner’s dream race. You have to qualify to be considered to run, but then you still might not get in if your time isn’t well above the qualifying time. But what made this particular running of the iconic race so monumental was that the weather conditions were the worst in 30 years with high winds, driving rains, and temperatures ranging from 30-35 degrees. 1,300 participants were treated for medical emergencies, many caused by hypothermia. My feet felt like bricks sploshing through puddle after puddle. At times, there would be a lull in the wind and rain but that was Mother Nature trickery. Within a few minutes she was back again unleashing storm cell after storm cell.

I have been telling anyone who will listen…the cashier at the grocery store, the mail delivery person, the pest control technician, the plumber…anyone I can corner. It was hell and I loved it! I’m one of those crazy running people. I live to tell the story. I’m loopy enough to run 26.2 miles, fight off hypothermia and want to do it all over again! At mile 25 with Eminem’s Lose Yourself buzzing from my playlist, I gave it all for my last mile…my one shot, my one opportunity to seize everything I wanted. After hours of miserable weather and soaked to my bones I crossed the finish line, arms slightly lifted to a muscle pose, smiling from ear to ear.

My friend and running mentor texted two quotes to me, “Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway” and “Be gentle with yourself. You’re doing the best you can.” Keep these words close to your heart when you face whatever mountainous goals you set.

Enjoy!
Beth