Ragnar Recap

Running Ragnar was a great experience for me. I accomplished something that I never thought I could!

Highlights for me include:

1) Finishing my 8.8 mile leg and running the entire thing. It was full of hills and there were plenty of moments I felt like quitting but I kept on running.
2) Receiving the bracelet from one sister and passing it off to another on every leg...just another reminder of how much I love my sisters (Michelle and Aleena included). I actually got a little emotional as I passed the bracelet every time...love my family!
3) Chatting with people as I ran. (Yes, I am one of those who starts talking to random people on planes) I loved hearing what made people run this race. On my first leg I talked to a girl who was running with a van of 12 friends. One of them had lost her husband suddenly and was suffering from extreme depression. They banded together as friends and started running, stating that it was cheaper then therapy...that ended in running a Ragnar together.
4) Being able to rely on Geoff to run with almost all of us at some point as motivation and security. My brother rocks! He was hilarious and an absolute life saver. He ran as many miles as most runners did and I am not sure we could have done it without him. He created a family chant that had us on laughing...I would expect nothing less from him!
5) Seeing my mom and dad on the side of the road on my first run and watching my dad come to my rescue with water when he felt my support van had gone too far ahead! He apparently went forward, found my support van, and chewed them out for going so far ahead! It made me laugh! My parents are the greatest. I hope we made them proud!
6) Seeing those in the other van even if just for a minute! So proud of cousin Brit and Uncle Steve for being first timers with us!
7) Watching Chad run like a complete rock star on an injured knee. There were times that I thought he might collapse but he kept on running. We were all a little concerned and even tried to shove him in the van once...but he kept on running. What a trooper! Not sure he loved the over protective sisters always asking if he was okay, but I am pretty sure he expected nothing less.
8) Seeing Dan at the finish line. It is always awesome to tell people that we are related to Ragnar Dan. What a great event. It brings out the best in so many people and so much can be learned about yourself as you run. My conclusion...I can do hard things!
9) Watching Kelsey conquer her fear of the dark and finish her final leg like a champ. As she ran toward me in the final exchange I got emotional. She didn't think she could do it and she did. I love her!
10) Finishing! I didn't get to cross the finish line with the team because I had to catch a plane but it was different to be at a Ragnar finish line as a finisher and not just a spectator or volunteer. I am currently sporting my Ragnar shirt and the window sticker will go in my car tomorrow! :) I actually can say I did it and not just own the gear. That feels good!

Running for me has been therapy. How great to be outside and be able to take in all the beautiful things that God has created. My runs over the last few months have been a time for me to reflect, pray, and relax. I have enjoyed it and hope to continue running at least a little bit! Thanks to my supportive husband who has given up many mornings of his own workout time to allow me to run. I think it has made me a better person. I feel good, I am happier, I sleep better and I feel less stressed then I ever have. Life is good. I completed a Ragnar and we are making plans for the next one!