Rainbows and Unicorns

Well, I promised you rainbows and unicorns in my last post - so, here we go!

Sunday's half-marathon run was truly a reflective run for me.......

I knew going into my last half-marathon that I was going to do run/walk intervals. Going into Sunday's race I decided that I would run the whole first 3 miles before taking a walk break. I made it to 3 and decided to do 5....then I started thinking about this OLD guy Jamie and his wife Pam. I met Pam and Jamie at a 5k in November, the time when I first started contemplating a half marathon. Pam told me about training for the Kiawah Half and I was hooked. She told me that Jamie was beginning training for an Ironman......that just added fuel to my fire! .......but back to my Sunday run......I thought about a recent picture I saw of Jamie finishing a half in oh, about 1.5 hours. I decided that if he could do it that FAST then I could certainly at least run most of mine! Just fyi, I made it to mile 9 point something and the cramp in my leg overcame my mindset so I added some walking intervals, but had it not been for the vision of all the people I was running for I would have probably walked a lot sooner!

I thought about Amber, and how far she has helped me come!

I thought of the two girls that were with me - Jen and Heather.....about how they had agreed to join me in this journey and how much they have been here for us during our whole journey with Zeta. I thought about what a blessing they are to our family and how God has provided so much through them and their families.

I thought about Kristina and all the early morning runs and walks she does with me and all the places I've dragged her to....Her sweet and willing manner.

I thought of Trina and her endless enthusiasm...Our family spokesperson and eternal cheerleader! She has almost literally held my hand since the day of the ultrasound that told us something might be wrong. She has worked to make sure I never retreat too far into my shell when things get tough.

I thought of David and his mom, and what they do in trying to bring smiles to the faces of sick children and their families. I was even wearing a charm that he gave me that has a picture of a runner and the words 'guardian angel protect me'.

I thought of Stevie and how God truly blessed me with someone who has remained strong and true through thick and thin. We've been friends forever, which I believe has made the ultimate difference in our relationship. There have been times there's been distance between us, but I know he always, always has my back and has loved me when I didn't feel lovable at all.

I thought about my parents and all they've sacrificed to make our lives better (I don't think they would ever admit that though). There is absolutely no way we would be able to keep it together without them! I know that I can call either of them at any hour- for anything- and there would be no hesitation in helping me with whatever I need!

There are so many, many people I thought about. I know that unless I've mentioned your name you may or may not really be interested in all I'm saying.......I could go on and on about all the people that have made an impact on our lives......we have truly been blessed beyond measure..........there is no way we could provide the life that Zeta (and our boys) deserve without the love and support that has continually surrounded us!

Toward the end of my run I noticed a man (about my parents age) that seemed to be getting discouraged. I had been watching him a while. He would walk, then run, then look at his watch, shake his head and start all over. We had less than a half a mile to go when he slowed to a walk again, looking rather discontent with himself. I grabbed his arm and told him, "We're almost there." We crossed the finish line together. What is rather ironic about that now, as I look back, is that in the back of my mind I was thinking - what if something is wrong and I've caused him to push harder than he should (you know only YOU know your body) I would feel so bad if he passes out. You know, you get these "what if" scenarios - things that you don't really think are going to happen but what would you do if they did?....what would I do, how could I help......would there be other people to help?

It is very ironic that we actually had that experience with the man (NOT the man who was running with me) who collapsed in front of my vehichle just as we were getting ready to leave.

Watching him collapse, trying to help him fight for his life, hearing the people search for family members or friends...anyone there with him........all of that playing out made everything I had reflected on during my run come around full circle.

You really never know.

You really should take every opportunity to let people know how important they are to you and you should always be looking for someone who may need you. It doesn't have to be money or any dramatic measures.....sometimes all people need to experience is a little faith in this world...sometimes people just like to know they're not alone. Sometimes we just need validation. All the time we need patience, kindess, and love!

Oh, and the man that collapsed - well I heard he was awake and talking.......I'm still 'stalking' all kinds of people on facebook to find out more.......


But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Gal 5:22-23
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Col. 3:12