Post Half Marathon!

So I officially have completed a half marathon!! (Say wha?!) :)

A huge shout out and thankful spirits to my friend, Carrie, that ran it with me.  I know I would not have completed it as well without her!! She is an angel for having to put up with my complaining and entertain me! 

This was an amazing (and honestly at times - hellish) experience. I would do it again (in a heartbeat) but would do the make sure I did the following:

1. Train - don't let excuses become your enemy.  You will thank yourself later. Part of the training is mental as well.  I think that last little hill at the end would hardly seem like a barrier to my goal of completion had I trained. 
2. Shot Blocks/Gu Energy and water -  take these with you!!!  Although the race had water and one gu station, I couldn't imagine going the whole distance without them.  Its recommended that you use shot blocks or sports Gu for every hour you run. This will help you get your second (third and fourth) wind! Staying hydrated will help as well.  I have found with soccer (and this run) that the more water and hydrated you are, you will cramp less.
3. Say thank you and encourage- there were so many supporters on the race today.  Running behind more experienced racers, they often said thank you.   Its important to let them know how much your support means. They did make me want to keep running.  (so did the video drones).   Also encourage other runners!! I cannot tell you how important this is.  Especially near the end!  When you are tired and ready to quit, partly because you HURT everywhere and swear you cannot take another step,  having someone give you that bit of encouragement can help you finish that extra mile.  
4. Go with a friend -  for this being a first time event for me, I know the miles 8-10 (which seemed to be the hardest) would have been utter hell had it not been for my lovely friend telling me great stories. Not only did they make me laugh but they made the miles seem so short! I can not thank her enough for going with me! 
5. Golden Rule - run the last mile.  Your body can do more than you think!  This is part of the mental training mentioned earlier.  You can do it, don't let your legs and body tell you otherwise!  You will feel wonderful for obtaining such a goal! :)
6. Treat yourself - heck you earned it! I'd recommend a McDonalds McGriddle Sandwich (my new tradition) 

Also a huge shout out and thank you to Moretta for supporting me in this life goal! :) You are the best!!   Your cheering at the end made me cross that finish line! :)  Tons of Love!