#BostonStrongSeattle Run and my birthday!

Yesterday I got to be involved in a tribute run for Boston that was hosted by local companies Super Jock & Jill, Oiselle, Kinetics Sports Rehab and my friends at Gametiime.  The hope was to get as many runners as we could together to run around Greenlake (out and back was 5K) in solidarity for the Boston tragedy.

I was excited because I had finally been cleared to run by my doctor.  After three weeks of not running at all, I was excited to get out and pound some pavement, even if I was only allowed to run one mile!

They supplied bibs for the run and we were encouraged to wear blue and yellow.  I just so happened to have just those colors in my wardrobe.  A little sparkle is always good!

I arrived to Greenlake and saw the setup for people to sign a waiver, pin their bibs and congregate and socialize before the run.

The turnout was decent, this was about 20 minutes before the posted start time, so it was encouraging to see a good group forming.  I ran into the guys from Gametiime and got to chat a little bit, then I got to catch up a bit with Rebecca a fellow Seattle blogger and chatted it up with Andrea, another fabulous local blogger.  It was great seeing these ladies and all the runners come out for the run.  Also, how can you not want to run in this gorgeous weather!!

All decked out and ready for my (short) run!  It was time to run so everyone went to the "start line" to head out.

 

Look at the turn out!!!  Easily two hundred runners were here to run, including about a dozen runners that actually ran the Boston Marathon last Monday!!!  It was so inspiring to see them out with us and the pride they showed being out with all of us on this run.  It was amazing feeling the camaraderie with all the people there.  Overhearing conversations about upcoming races, how people did during races this past weekend and training plans they are working on.  Signs that what happened last week has not kept this community from doing what they love and that we will continue to push forward and go on despite this tragedy.  There were even people clapping as all of us were running the route.  It literally brought tears to my eyes, I am getting misty eyed even now thinking about it. 

 

Last night showed me that human nature still has compassion and empathy for others and that we still can come together for a cause bigger than ourselves and not need anything in return.  It was so good to see that and put my heart at ease.

 

As for my run, because that was also another big event during this event, was good.  I walked mostly (because the route was longer than the prescribed one mile I could run) but when I was able to run, my body was so happy.  It fell back into the rhythm all by itself and I actually said out loud, "I've missed this" and really meant it.  I've missed the freedom that running gives me.  Doesn't matter how tired or stressed I am, I know that a run can make me right again.  I left the lake last night feeling so light and refreshed, like my batteries had been recharged after being drained for weeks.  I also had the best night sleep I'd had in a while.  I so needed that run.  Best thing about that run?  Even though I was a bit stiff afterward, this morning when I woke up...no pain!  BONUS!!!  I can't wait to tell my doctor tomorrow at my appointment!!!

 

Speaking of today!  Did you know...

 

 

Today is my birthday!!!  Another year passed and another year older.  I must say this year has been quite the time and I have done things I never thought were possible and met the most wonderful people that I never would have met otherwise.  I am so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends!  So on my birthday, I wish you all a fantastic day and a year full of love and strength.  Cheers!