Today I met up with Anna Steeves to run 12 miles. We were so excited to get started having not seen each other in a few weeks. Best thing I discovered today, which stole my energy and breath at about mile .3, Anna is running Chicago, too! I knew she was signed up for something, but I didn't know it was the Chicago marathon. SO: We get to run together! YAY!!! This actually caused me to leap and yell and probably frighten the woman running not very far ahead of us... whoops.
All the excitement had us heading out a little too fast and, while Anna seemed to feel amazing the entire way, I struggled in the last few miles. I was so happy to have her with me to encourage me to keep going. =)
At around mile 11, we rounded the curve coming up to the much anticipated water pump. Whereas a year ago I was weirded out about drinking from the water pump, I basically bathe in it now. Plus, as Anna and I discussed, Ragnar has left us un-squeamish about many things. I guess baby-wipe showers and porta-potty breaks over a 34 hour period of time will do that to you. It wasn't very long before we discovered the the pump was not turned on. Um, hello! Its mid summer and 90 degrees out and the water pump isn't turned on yet. WHAT!?!?!?!
No Fear! Phillip is near! A quick call, a little stretching and a little resting in the shade later and Phil arrived with two water bottles filled with the most glorious tasting water I have ever had in my life. Thanks, Phil! You're the best!
The last two - three miles were rough and long, but we finished! What I am most grateful for and what I cherish above all other running experiences is the friendships that I find along the way. There is nothing like spending 2+ hours with a friend laughing, sharing trials, encouraging one-another and giving praise to God for his glory apparent in our very surroundings.
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