Since 2007, I have wanted to do a half marathon. I have tried training on three other occasions--each time resulting in an injury. With my 30th birthday in July, I was determined to finally do a half marathon. I paid for it right away and decided injury-or-no-injury, I would compete. But, it was not a competition for me--I just wanted to finish! Oddly enough, I selected a trail run as my first half marathon thinking the scenery in Michigan doesn't include major hills. My friend Cliff (shown below) and I both thought the hills would be minor. Oh, how we were wrong! These hills were not for the weak of hips or ankles. It was a very fun and intense experience, but I finished and I felt proud. I am thankful for all the friends and family who have supported me these past few months as I trained and for the chocolate muffin I was able to consume after the race.
The rest of the weekend involved icing and groaning and sleeping. Luckily, my hubs is on a break from school and took good care of me!