Blogging is an amazing thing and yes, it is hard to put the truth out there but it is worth it. I know I am not alone in my feelings and I get as much support and inspiration from you as I hear I give to some. I love the mutual sharing and honestly, the running community rocks! Runners are amazing and I am honored to be able to call myself a runner and truly lucky to be able to call myself a marathoner. The image below is a picture I actually liked from the run.
It is at a point where I was struggling and the photographer wasn't asking me to do a fake smile. I don't even remember seeing a photographer after the misting tunnel. I was on Front Street - the portion I dread the most about this course. I always feel I am running through an abandoned town or that I am the only person running in a sea of people shopping and eating. It is a weird and tough stretch of road.
At the start of the tunnel a volunteer accidentally threw a cup of water in my face. She apologized and obviously felt terrible. I let her know that it was actually very much appreciated. I was truly feeling blessed for that moment of cooling relief, a cup of water, and a cold sponge. I was in my run/walk phase and obviously had both feet off the ground "running"...barely. It is nice to see a picture of me actually enjoying myself in the hard part of the race.
And yes, I was thinking never again. We all know that isn't true. I am racing a marathon in December and my desire to break a 4:20 is rekindled in full force. My determination is strong. The second vow you didn't know. Never will I do Maui Marathon again! That course has kicked my butt three times. I am moving on. Well, it looks like other forces are at play as the Maui Marathon is giving me an offer I can't refuse. Okay, not just me, many. I just may need to bite the bullet and register to run it again in 2014. I have 5 days to decide. The countdown starts now!
Daily Gratitude: I know I have said this before but it is worth saying again, I am so thankful for each and every one of you!
Daily Affirmation: I get back up!