than I have ever run or walked. 26.2 miles is what daughter, ladybug, accomplished yesterday in her first* Marathon.
We followed her and moved ahead of her to spots along the course in order to cheer her on. We especially wanted to be at mile 20 because that is where she hit a wall when training.
Sunday her wall came a little further in – and it slowed her down to a shuffle. By mile 24 we knew she was headed for a rough last couple of miles.
That is when we also learned that a couple of major intersections were not being watched by police or volunteers. So daughter lessa and I along with a friend of ladybug’s took it on ourselves to block those intersections so she could safely cross.
Only ticked off one driver and he, surely by today, will get over his bad self.
Ladybug crossed the line – we gathered around to congratulate her . . . and cry with her . . . and get her safely into warm shelter so she could sit, get off her shoes, rehydrate (which she did very well throughout the race), get her sugar back up (I handed her a pluot) and commisserate with her about what she had just accomplished.
So very proud of her. Proud of everyone who accomplished their goals yesterday. Thankful for family and friends gathering her up in their arms and loving her through it all.
That Finish line made all those months of training – running with the moose and even a few bears along the trails – hiding coffee cans with tp along her route (and learning to potty in the woods where she might be spotted – heh) – early morning runs in cold, wind, rain, and (very little) dry sun – worth it in the long run. (runner humor)
Love ya, ladybug! You done good, girlie. And, that toe will heal – after the nail falls off. It’s a badge of courage – you are now an official runner.
*I say “first” because, despite her protestations, I know how running gets into your skin and I imagine she may see another marathon in her future – even (especially) if it is in conjunction with that IronMan she wants to do.