Adjusting + Marathon#6.

So last week flew by before I even knew it. Work has been wonderful and I finally feel like I am getting into a routine...just in time to start "for real" on my unit and on an earlier (7-3:30) 8 hour shift than I have been doing thus far;) Hopefully I adjust quickly because the family has been ON my case this weekend about my neglected blog. Something about how this is the only way they can stalk me since I choose to live half of a day's drive away.... ;)

Anyway...with the week days full of learning and working and adjusting...I have been trying to make the most of my weekends! Last weekend I was lucky enough to share in the experience of my friend's (Lindsay) second marathon!

Ann was sweet enough to allow me and my pups a place to stay and so I was grateful to get to spend time with two amazing friends while I was up visiting the Twin Cities area:)

Lindsay is a dear friend I met through daily mile and Ann is another dear friend I met through blogging. Seriously...never underestimate the power of social media. Some of my best and closest friends I have met online:):):)

Last Saturday (9/1) marked my 6th marathon and last 20+ long run prior to my 50 THIS coming Saturday(!?!). But the day was all about Lindsay to me...I wanted her to have a great 2nd marathon...one that she could look back on as "just as sweet as her first."

I know Linds would admit it was a tough day for her--- and for me...I always say a marathon is never an easy feat. It was hot, hilly and the marathon had very few people in the race. Linds experienced dehydration and pain throughout after mile 10 but (even if she claims every step after that she thought she would not finish)...I never had a doubt. The last 16 miles were full of stories, laughing, teeth gritting, heart, pain, pride and perseverance...as well as a little of Linds' favorite word, "courage," thrown in as well.

I was so proud when we arrived at the finish line. Each marathon I am given the opportunity to run is always special in its own way. This one will forever be remembered because I was lucky enough to help a dear friend, watch her fight her heart out for a finish line and overcome all adversity to succeed. Absolutely no words to describe the wave of emotion I felt as we crossed the finish line together!

At mile 18 I told Linds we should start doing mile dedications. I of course am thinking she will choose something really "deep" to run for...so I ask her what is the first thing that comes to mind? Her reply...

I laughed and could not agree more...sometimes at mile 18 the only thing that will keep ya going is thoughts of a big cup of fro-yo;)

The rest of the day was spent enjoying time...Mall of America with Ann and play time for our pups!

So grateful to both of these friends for allowing me to enjoy some time with them last weekend!