November, 24, 2018, I ran my first solo half marathon. It was a huge thing for me. Every "big" race I've done, I've done it with my person. I'm comfortable doing things with him and having his encouragement when I hit a low point and really just his support and company. I decided, though, this race being on the Greenway, where I've done all my solo longer runs, I wanted to do this one on my own. Every race has a story and this race, the Palmetto Peach Half Marathon offered me a cold, rainy, hilly piece of humble pie. But I really consider it a victory, nonetheless. It was no gentle course and the weather was not nice, but all that aside, I had the most amazing cheerleaders who literally would pop up at random places along the course to encourage me, hug me, give me a high five and "you're doing great, mom!". My husband, my children, my sister, and my sister and brother in law! It was overwhelming really to have their support and encouragement...I honestly wasn't even sure what to do with it all! They love and support me so well, and I am so grateful!
When I got to the finish, they were all there waiting and cheering, plus a cousin and her racing buddy! (they did a race the 5K race that day as well!) We celebrated with pizza, and it took hours for it all to sink in. I was incredibly satisfied with how the run went. There were no extreme low points and I was able to keep a consistent pace even in conditions that weren't ideal, and even set a PR by a few seconds. I'm thrilled with how it went and was already thinking about the nice flat Aiken half I would be running in April of next year and excited about the possibilities! Becoming a runner has changed me and it continues to push me and better me and I am so thankful. Thankful for the opportunity, ability and time to continue running.
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