A couple months ago I was asked by a group of running friends to join them for a girl's weekend in Chicago. Fine print was I'd have to run a half marathon. I was quick to register thinking it'd be fun and I'd have time to train. Then moving happened.
My longest training run was a 15k race where I hit the wall at mile 7. Was I nervous? Of course.
The weekend started with me getting lost in downtown Chicago. The Marriott there needs a bigger sign. Once I was parked and semi calm I found fellow running mom Krista. I've "known" her for years but that was the first time we'd met. Greeted by hugs I knew the weekend would be a blast.
We jumped on the subway and headed to meet the other ladies at the expo. Now I'm a sucker for a good race expo. I bought lots of good running goodies.
In the chaos of all the people we managed to find the other group of ladies. Some I had met in person other's I hadn't. Big hugs and hellos were exchanged and we continued shopping. That seemed to be a trend for the weekend.
Saturday morning Stacey and I watched and cheered for the other ladies as they ran the 5k. It was miserably hot. We were parched just from spectating.
Sunday morning came way too fast and the thought of running in the heat was terrifying.
Of course I was corralled second from last. Waiting on that start line felt like forever. But I felt good and ready!
My focus was just to finish and have fun. I stuck to my intervals (a 1:1 if you're curious) until mile 7 when my earbuds died. I tried to pace them out in my head until mile 8 when my foot decided it had enough. Walking the last 5 miles of a half marathon was not in my plan. But I did. A combination of heat, plantar fascitis, and blisters was too much.
At each water station I'd grab 2 waters one for inside and one for outside. Plus ice for under my hat at medical tents seemed to be my winning combination.
I considered quitting but didn't. Crossing that finish line was amazing. Almost better than my first.
After the race we all talked, laughed, shared battle wounds (mine a blister we named Walter), got tattoos, had dinner, and cheesecake in bed.
Looking back it was the best weekend I've had in forever. Taking a break from being a wife and mom was exactly what I needed.
Thanks RMM ladies for an amazing weekend. Thanks for being great friends and cheerleaders. Chicago or Vegas next year? ♡
