On September 18 Jen texted to share that she just ran 10 miles, which is a very big milestone in the world of running. It’s close enough to 13 where a runner knows the half marathon is within reach. As a runner you know that once you get to those distances, it’s not a given that you will be healthy enough to get there again, especially running in our 40’s. Jen knew she was ready for her Bucket List Half Marathon. It’s her time.
A few hours later she texted, “Registered for Boulderthon Half Marathon October 8!” My very first thought and reply was “Yes!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 My second response was “I’m so excited for you, but I HATE that I’m not going to be there.”
I just want to be with her to share all the moments of the big day. I want her to know what an amazing accomplishment this is because it isn’t just about the race day. It’s about all the work she put in this summer putting one foot in front of the other. Going hard on days she knew she could, but also slowing down and being restful when she needed that. It truly brought pain to my heart knowing I couldn’t watch her do this.
But, then I kept thinking “What in the world are we even doing in life if we are not CELEBRATING BIG MOMENTS with the people we LOVE?! Isn’t that what this is all about?
The last thought I needed was “Why the hell not?” This is a once in a life time experience. I could be there with my sister, watching her run her very first half marathon and maybe even run a few miles with her like she did for me 12 years ago.
So I looked at flights, got some encouragement from friends who said “Heck yea, you’re doing this! These are the moments you can’t ever get back!” and I bought the plane ticket.
So, here I am, sitting on the plane getting ready to land in Denver and she doesn’t know I’m coming.
Best idea I’ve ever had. 🏃🏼♀️⛰💙
