Des Moines Marathon

Last weekend, l ran my first (and possibly only!) marathon. It was an amazing experience. It was a beautiful fall day and a great race. My finish time was 4 hours and 53 minutes, which was slower than I had hoped, but I was just happy to finish. Colby was very supportive and came down with the kids to cheer me on. I was able to see them 3 times during the race and at the finish line. I couldn't have done it without my wonderful husband and 2 darling boys, my running partner Celeste, my sponsor Paul and the Macaroni Grill, Aerosmith and Def Lepard (nerdy, I know- but they motivate me). I have to add a disclaimer before these pictures: alot of these are pretty cheesy, but I wanted to show proof that I actually did this!



Getting ready for the race, holding my race number, and feeling really nervous.



Celeste and I running through one of the parks.



The kids were so excited to see me, they were running up and down the road and giving me high fives.



Part of the marathon course (I think it was about mile 18) ran through the Drake University stadium. There was a live band and a broadcast of runners on a big screen overhead. It was pretty cool.



The marathon started and ended downtown. There were tons of people cheering on the runners, it was a huge adrenaline rush.



On the home stretch, running toward the finish line.



This is really cheesy, I warned you. Me crossing the finish line.



One more crossing the finish line. This was definately one of the coolest experiences of my life, actually I think it's number 5 behind 1. marrying the love of my life 2. the birth of my kids 3. graduating from college and 4. traveling to Russia and Europe. It might be tied for #4, either way, definately in the top five.