thankING

On Sunday I ran the ING half-marathon. To celebrate I gave my tinfoil blanket and all my layers away in the name of clothing the homeless. (If I could I would run in my underwear - I get so hot, even in 40 degree rain).

On behalf of accepting the above medal, I would like to thank:

1. Pam: The 51 year-old stranger who befriended me, led me to a corral,* and ran the first three miles with me. I am thanking her because she could tell I was a newbie and, since there was no organization whatsoever by the race officials, she told me where to go. Also, I tend to run the first three miles super slow, and this former marathon runner didn't exactly let me dawdle. On mile three, as if on cue, she stopped to take off a layer and told me she would catch up. I never saw her again but she will live on in this blog. (Afterward, I wondered if she was looking for a way to ditch me).

2. My husband Dan: Where do I begin? For putting up with my runs, my expensive Asics I had to have, and my 5:30 am wake-up call. Especially for getting the baby and walking downtown to Centennial. (This will later turn into running the full marathon with a baby bjorn). Very thoughtfully booking a hotel at the Marriott Renaissance and making a weekend out of it, complete with power pasta dinner and breakfast brunch.** Heck, the suite even had its own private pool.

3. The high school soccer/cross country star who greeted me at the finish line: For reminding me how dorky I was. He probably finished an hour ago.

4. The homeless individuals who chased me down Spring Street at 6:00 am. I guess I got my warm-up in. That's what I get for forgoing MARTA and making my own way to the race.

5. God: Most importantly, for giving me the strength and health to run at all.

A Runner's Prayer:

God, Give me courage to run the race. Help me to persevere as you taught us. Grant me the strength to finish strong. Honor me with your presence on my journey. Allow me to be a GraceRunner this day.

*It was the wrong corral, but I learned no one cares. And no one follows any of the rules - like "no ipod" - anyways. (Apparently there is a schism among serious runners about the use of an ipod.)

**Breakfast disgusts me but obviously everything was looking good this morning.