Festival of Races

On May 2nd, a beautiful, sunny day on Long Island, I ran a 10K (6.25 miles) alongside my cousin Paul. It was wonderful having a running partner; something that doesn't happen since no one in my family are runners. All around us we saw fellow runners warming up, stretching and setting up their iPods awaiting the words: "Ready, Set, Go." We were lined up, front and center, and crossed the start line at 8:00 am. Paul and I had a rhythm down and ran side by side the entire time. We were encouraged by those bystanders, hearing their cheers and claps all along the route. Running out on the open road, in the town where I grew up, made me realize how lucky I was to have legs that allowed me to run, a heart that was pumping my blood and lungs allowing me to breathe during those tough (why am I doing this?) times. We passed each mile marker, stamped with the time, knowing it was one closer to the finish line. I kept thinking about the moment when I would see my supportive family and boyfriend on the sideline, who would provide me with congratulatory hugs and kisses. I saw them and heard them cheering as we crossed the finish line at 1:05:34. We took pictures and I thoroughly enjoyed that moment in time with my family and the man I loved beside me. Next year, I will once again participate, but instead of the 10K, it will be the half marathon (13 miles). It was a fantastic day and one that I will always remember. It's these moments in life that will be forever cherished.