Well, before I begin, I realize that blogs are perceived by some as self-indulgent and others say that it can affect the way people feel about you in a negative way. I can understand those opinions however I'm willing to take those risks because 1) I truly believe my blog will help people (from some of the responses I've gotten, it already has) and 2) because it is helpful to me.
I got an e-mail from a friend who is aware of many of my issues which have not been disclosed in this blog as of yet. She was someone I was concerned about because she is a very close friend of mine and I thought she'd be very disappointed in me and wouldn't be very supportive. Perhaps I should give my friends more credit because that wasn't the case. She wrote a very supportive e-mail and I truly appreciate it. I know I won't always get positive responses but I will appreciate them when I do.
Ok, now the big question. Did I survive the Peachtree? I was very scared this time because I have had health issues, both mental and physical, over the last year. I was also scared because for the first time ever I'd told myself it was okay to walk. That wasn't like me at all. So did I finish?
Yes, I did and so did Andrea. I believe I did because I ran it for someone who I know is going through a tough time right now. He was certainly on my mind. Also, I watched the movie "Run Fat Boy Run" beforehand and while it won't be nominated for any Oscars, it helped me to get past "the wall" that the Peachtree presented last year that caused me to walk. This year I ran all 6.2 miles, only stopping momentarily while running in place to pose with Andrea for pictures at the halfway point with Aunt Susie. I also credit it to running with my better half. Andrea took her time and was very supportive during the run. She made it a lot more worthwhile. I'm really proud of her. A year ago she wasn't sure she could run another Peachtree due to some health issues but she did it. She did amazing! We finished in 78 minutes. I know that's unacceptable in Kenya but for two adults battling life-altering disorders, I was pretty proud of us. That makes 5 or 6 for Andrea and 14 for me. Next year I go for 15.
The weather wasn't too bad until the end by the way. It got hot later but we were running in 70 to 80 degree weather. The most inspiring part of the race was the run up Heartbreak Hill where we ran past Piedmont Hospital, the place where Andrea gave birth to Avery and Ethan. Heartbreak hill is a long hill that is considered the most difficult part of the Peachtree run. We saw several patients from the Shepherd Center supporting the runners. All of these people have debilitating injuries. The Shepherd Center takes care of people with spine injuries. How could Andrea and I quit at that point? They only made us work harder.
We went to the Dunwoody Parade on Monday and the kids had a blast (image of Ethan attached - photo credited to Shira Blate). Andrea helped get them more candy than the 4 years combined Avery and I had been trick-or-treating together. I was proud of her but now I'm hesitant to ever take her to Mardi Gras if she was that persuasive getting candy and beads for the kids. It was great to see several friends there. We also saw some good friends on Friday and Saturday night.
All and all, it was a busy weekend but Andrea and I had a blast though we were exhausted last night.
Well, that's about it. More to come later this week.I hope everyone had a happy and safe 4th. Keep doing your best.
Andy
Congratulations on finishing, Andy.
ReplyDeleteIt was very inspiring to hear about the race.
ReplyDeleteIn my book, you and Andrea won first place!