13.1 Miles

This past Saturday a dedicated bunch of friends and family ran a half marathon in Evie's honor (21.08 kilometers for my international friends ;).  It really was a lovely experience and I think everyone ran better than they expected, myself included.  I was able to run over 7 miles without stopping.  Somewhere between miles 7 and 8 I decided walking was necessary and ran off and on until the last mile, which I ran/jogged/hobbled.  

I wanted to share some things I learned along the way and some pictures.  I hope you enjoy.  

Lessons learned and observations made:

1. The first few miles will go by quickly.  The others ... not so much.  
2. Drinking water from a small paper cup is almost impossible without getting half of it on your shirt.

Team Evie: (L-R) my Father-in-law Dave, Dad Pete, Micah, Me, Mom Soula, Sister Michelle, Friend Amy, Friend Jenna (not pictured - friend Danielle)

3. People of all shapes, sizes, and ages will be faster or slower than you.  And it changes about fifty times along the way.
4. I saw a turtle along the path.  I think he was moving faster than I was.

My sister, mom, and dad came back to run me in (they finished wayyyy before I did).

5. Some people were brave enough to ask about Evie.  It meant so much.  And I have a sneaking suspicion these people have felt the pain of losing a loved one as well.
6. You can breathe through tears.

Evie shirts - "Running in honor of: Evie Caris Rieke, November 8, 2012, Fearfully and wonderfully made.

7. Sometimes just the right song will come onto your ipod to give you the little extra boost (I knew you were trouble when you walked in ...)
8. Wear sunscreen.  

9. At the end of the race you will feel like jello.
10. Once again, little girls in Heaven motivate you to do things you never thought you had the strength to do.

Special friends <3

Thank you so much to all the participants, fans, and prayer warriors who supported me on Saturday.  Thank you for honoring my sweet girl.