Marathon Mile Dedications

I get asked a lot... "What do you think about for that long?" while running.  Everything!  On Sunday as I tackle my first marathon, here are a sampling of things/people that will cross my mind.  To you, I dedicate these 26.2 miles...

1 • Runners Unite!  So happy to be a part of the runner community!  I've met some really cool people and made friendships that I know will last a long time.
2 •  All my blogger friends - Starting a blog this year has been the most rewarding activity ever. There just aren't enough miles in a marathon to name you all.  You've been so encouraging - and your advice priceless!!  Thank you!
3 • My neighbors - who by now must all think I'm crazy, running up and down our street.  Several have helped me in my training by watching the girls when I'm stuck in a pickle.  And everyone always has such nice encouraging things to say!  I just wish more would run with me.
4 • Jennifer S. - One of my newest friends who is quite possibly the happiest and most motivating person I've ever met.
5 • My in-laws - Always supportive and offering to watch the girls when I "need" to run.  Love you!
6 •  Bekah - So proud of my girl, who just a year ago hated to run.  Read her story HERE.

7 • Kristen - My Spin & WRB Challenge partner!!  Together we're the Triple-F's... Fabulously Fit Friends!  After baby #2, she's working hard to get herself back.
8 • Grandma Helen - Always has a big hug and proud of me.  Love you!
9 • Angie - The only person I know who will run at 5am with me!  She's fast and pushes me along.

10 • Danelle - A childhood friend, we've cheered each other on all summer in our training. So proud of her for rocking her first half marathon last weekend!
11 • My cousin Julie - I know there's a runner in there somewhere!  You can do it Jules! A healthier you awaits...
12 • Military families - The absences are hard. Sacrifices heart-wrenching. God Bless the U.S. solidiers and their families.

13 • Danyelle - who convinced me to run my first half marathon... and I've never looked back.
14 • Hot Pants runners - This group of ladies are so inspiring to me, not only for their running, but their close friendships.
15 • Dawn - One of my best friends! Not a runner, but a super fit hot momma! When hubby has to work, she watches my girls for me so I don't miss out on my Sole Sisters.  In fact, she's the closest thing I've ever had to a real sister.  xoxo
16 • My Dad - He is here cheering on my marathon instead of bow-hunting.  This is huge, folks!  He hasn't always "gotten" my running, but always has my back.
17 • Cancer survivors - I do a lot of fundraising to fight cancer.  Currently, DetermiNation!  What can I say... Cancer sucks!  And just when I think it's getting tough... I'm thankful that I'm healthy enough to be out here, even if I am running in the rain...
18 • Cathy - I love talking running with you!  I may never be able to keep up with you speedy-gonzalez, but I still enjoy our running friendship.  Good Luck in Chicago!
19 • Race Spectators - For all the people who will hold signs, call out my name and cheer me on, thank you for being out here.  It makes the experience so much more fun!  I don't think they realize how much a runner like me appreciates it.
20 • Grandma Lillian - I know you're cheering me on from above.  Give me strength to push past the "wall".

21 • Sole Sisters - I love each and every one of you.  This will be a hard mile, so I'll imagine all of you by my side on a typical Wed night run. Thanks for being my partners in crime.

22 • My Mom - My biggest cheerleader, always and forever.  She makes me believe I can do anything.

23 • My Hubby - When it gets hard, he's the one I turn to.  Always my ROCK.

24 • Big Girl - My runner girl.  You changed my life when you made me a momma!  
25 • Little Girl - My little dickens, I love you so much!  She's my favorite running buddy (of course she gets to ride in the stroller with snacks while I sweat my butt off!)

26 • This one is all for ME!  I'm in the happy spot in life right now... and so much of that I owe to running.  As I look back just 3 years, I have a big smile at how far I've come!