I didn’t just beat my goal… I smoked it!

Details you have to know: My goal for this race was to finish in less than 30 minutes. My mom told me she would buy me a massage if I accomplished my goal. This is my FAVORITE race to participate in and I have been looking forward to this all summer.

Bad lighting but great girls!

Saturday was a day to remember! I woke up pumped to head out to the Susan G. Komen 5K run! I mean I literally sprung out of bed… maybe because deep down I knew it was going to be a GREAT day. Casey, Christina, and myself headed out toClevelandaround 7:30am… in the rain! Poor Christina had to drive us through the flooded streets where we finally found a parking garage that was only going to cost us $2. When we arrived at the event it didn’t take long until I was reminded of how much I LOVE this event. So many great people go to this event… so many strong people that have fought and survived Breast Cancer. There are a TON of people there running in honor of those that fought and were brave but lost the battle. I am like instantly inspired when I hear of these people and all of the strength they have. This event makes me want to be a better person and I can’t say enough good things about it!

Survivor Circle

When we arrived at the event we made our way to the bathroom (me of course!) and then stopped in to hear the speeches and songs of those that have survived. Casey and I had been to the event last year and I had done the 3 day walk so I knew what to expect BUT Christina had never been to it before. Honestly, it was so great to experience that with her and to see the look on her face as the tears built up in her eyes being part of something so amazing. I could tell she felt the exact same way I do! It is a truly moving experience and if you EVER have the chance to participate in this event I highly recommend it.

Casey and I enjoying the event

After trying to stay dry inside we headed out to meet the rest of the team! The run was just the beginning to a great day for Kara and a bunch of her girl friends as we were going to celebrate her bachelorette party that evening! But before we could go out and enjoy ourselves a group of us wanted to get together to do something good for our community so we ran. Our team consisted of…

• Myself
• Kara
• Casey
• Christina
• Robyn
• Allison
• Brittany
• Robin
• Alissa
• Jimmy

• 

  Team Pic

We were a heck of a team and all worked our butts off to finish! When the race started Kara and I stuck with Britt- who must be a seriously good runner. Britt’s pace was MUCH faster than my usual but I knew I needed to challenge myself so I just kept going. This pace put me much closer to Christina who usually beats me terribly in these races. By the time I cross the finish line she is sitting there, not sweating or breathing heavy, and just ready for a beer or something! This time I was determined to come a little closer =) Thank you Britt for helping me out on that one. So Kara Britt and I stayed as a team for a little over a mile and then Kara took a very well deserved breathing and slowed her pace a bit. We picked up Christina probably around mile 2.5 and the three of us ran off toward the finish line. The run was, well, tough. The pace was faster than usual, my legs were feeling a little tired, but the breathing was good and the mindset couldn’t have been better. I did realize I really struggle keeping my breathing consistent and healthy when I run by someone that is breathing really hard and struggling. Turns out Kara was having that same problem right behind me!

Casey and I.. after a run in the rain!

So as I ran I thought about everything under the sun. I thought about the massage I was hoping to get, I thought about the evening activities, I thought about the giant hill I was running up, but more importantly I really look the time to reflect on the cause. I am learning to love to run, yes, but this run for me really is about the cause. I love the idea of running in honor of all the people who have been affected by this terrible disease and I am honored to run beside those that have stories to share. I mean if that isn’t enough to make you wanna get off your butt and go for a run, I don’t know what is!

So proud of the girls!

So yea I ran my little butt of and hell yes I was tired at times but I just kept going. I did my best to smile and encourage those around me. I kept a positive attitude about my body and what it was doing for me. I think I truly approached this run the right way and well I think it paid off because…

I crossed the finish line, looked down at my stop watch and it read 28:30.

OMG. I did it! I freaking did it. I was smiling from ear to ear. I didn’t even care that at the very last second Christina came sprinting passed me and beat me AGAIN… this was a personal goal that I just did and I did it not only for myself but for everyone there and for everyone that wants to be involved in this great cause.

Kara and I ... sweaty and gross!

After the race we took pictures and headed home to rest up and get ready for a girls night out to celebrate with Kara!!