One Done!

Beautiful sunrise over Mt. Magazine

One of the gorgeous, sparkly, dew kissed fields we passed early in the race.

Just going to go lay down over there...cemetery #4 at mile 25.

Almost there...really.

Another medal.

I've shared a lot of finishes with this gal. I love her so.

My very first marathon was a miserable rainy and 50 degrees. My second, an even more miserable 17 degrees. The third time was a charm, I suppose, because my most recent race was a perfectly gorgeous 47 degrees at the start, 60 by the finish. The Arkansas Marathon was small, with less than 50 running the full marathon. I was the only person in my age division, therefore, I came in first...and last in my age group, ha! I ran through three towns, Booneville, Magazine, & Blue Mountain, passing 4 or 5 cemeteries (I always find this mildly amusing during a race). I ran over more roadkill than I have ever seen in my life x2 (it was a there and back course). The road was long and hilly, but the views were stunning. Fellow race participants were supportive. Volunteers were sweet and helpful. I especially loved the little old men manning an aid station in front of the funeral home at mile 24--again, my tired mind thought it all very funny. All in all, it was a great experience.

I had planned to travel to and run this race alone, as my favorite running buddy is still battling a back injury. A week before the race, she called and said, "I'm signed up for the half!" I can't tell you how much better these things are if you can share them with a friend. We didn't even get caught up with our respective stories before her turn around came, but sharing those few miles with her made a huge difference in the rest of my day. She was cheering for me at the finish and drove the whole way home. I owe her big time.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! Running this race knowing that more than $6,000 has already been donated to the Gayle Ross Memorial Campership Fund, made the 26.2 long and grueling miles a complete joy. I am humbled, honored by the support I have received from so many. But my goal is far from complete! 17 more days until race #2. 45 days until race #3. I would love to add a few more camperships to this total before race #3!

Please consider sponsoring me as I run for the Gayle Ross Campership Fund at Camp Lutherhoma. If you are moved to do so, send your donation to:

Camp Lutherhoma

PO Box 1672

Tahlequah, OK 74465

Please make sure to write Campership/run on the memo line

or you can donate online by visiting:

http://lutherhoma.com/Support/donationtypes.php

Scroll down to the Gayle Ross Campership Fund section and follow the link to Paypal.

THANK YOU.