Well, I did it. I can now say I've completed a half marathon. And it's a great feeling. Looking back, I really can't believe it worked out the way it did. My bh was torn between a hunting trip and coming with me and after some discussion, we decided the antelope were calling his name. So I was left Saturday morning to fend for myself, the kids and the dog. Before even leaving town I had to take family pictures and go to my son's soccer game. It was a hectic morning but we all made it to where we needed to be and finally got on the road to Sioux Falls. After spending some awesome time with my dad and stepmom, we went to my mom's where we were spending the night. I went to bed early and my mind was spinning from one thing to another. 2 hours later I was still awake. Before I knew it it was 5:30 and I rolled out of bed. My adreneline took over. I dressed, ate a not-so-tasty energy bar and headed down the two blocks to the wellness center. I was amazed at the people there already, stretching out. I even knew some people. As we loaded the bus to the starting line, it was misting and very chilly. Not a bad day for running a race, I thought. I met up with my running partner and the anticipation grew. Finally the gun went off and we were off, running in the race that I have been working towards for 6 months. The people on the sidelines were amazing. They were cheering and clapping for us, I thought that was so cool. I yelled to them, thanks for working so early in the morning! Mile 1-6 were great, I felt great and it was so pretty out. I just kept looking around, remembering landmarks from growing up in S.F. Then we hit the bike trail. Mile 7...8...more people taking pictures, cheering, hey there's my running partner's family! There were even drummers playing a tune. I couldn't believe all these people were here for us! Mile 9...uh oh, there's the wall. I hit it everytime. It's the time when all of a sudden my knees start to tighten up, they start to feel robotic. I couldn't make them go any faster. I looked at my watch, we were a little behind where we wanted to be but my legs just wouldn't move. I started talking to God. Help me God, I need you here. I accepted what my body and what God was telling me. Mile 10...the longest one. I began to think they measured wrong. This has to be more than a mile! I could feel God with me though. Finally, mile 11...we're almost there. Mile 12...I started feeling good again, I picked up speed. I could hear the people cheering. Must be the finish line I thought. We turned the corner and it was the most awesome thing I've ever experienced...the people clapping, cheering for me a total stranger! I forgot about my robotic knees and just took it all in. I saw my kids, my mom, my dad and the most wonderful surprise. From a distance I heard "DeAnn!" Is that my friend from Monstrose! It was! I couldn't believe it, tears came to my eyes. Having that support was so cool. I've never felt so great before. Immediately afterwards, I knew right then, I was signing up next year. My bh called and after telling him about it, he wished he would've come with me. I could hear it in his voice, he was proud. That made me smile. It's okay, I thought, you'll do it with me next year.

I went home feeling fortunate that God helped me through this race. I'm so astonished at what He shows me everytime I run. I feel like He is right there with me, pulling me along. Now I'm taking a little break but I'm ready for the next race, ready for the next heart to heart talk with God. My tennis shoes are in clear view as we speak. God put them there to remind me how much running puts me one with Him. Thanks be to Him and to you, my friends for being there. It meant so much. Pictures to come!