Full Circle

Running is many different things to each runner. For some, peace. Others, strength. Others still, overcoming. For me, running embodies a sense of amazement. Every time I lace up, I'm faced with new challenges. I also learn more about myself than I could ever have imagined. Every run surprises me and every run exhilarates me. Even my worst runs leave a mark. One year ago, I wasn't a runner. I wasn't a walker, or any type of athlete. I was lazy, I was unhappy with myself, and I felt broken. Then I stumbled across a health expo during Tinker Bell Half Marathon weekend at Disneyland and my life immediately changed. Sparkle Skirts and runDisney drew me in. The running community and my new self-image kept me going.

I started finding pride I'd never experienced before. I starting loving myself, and my flaws became less obvious. Then, on January 19th, 2014, I accomplished something that I'd never before imagined was possible. I crossed the finish line of my very first half-marathon. Of course, it couldn't be just any half-marathon. I ran the very same event that inspired me to run in the first place. The 2014 Tinker Bell Half Marathon marked a day of personal victory, and incomparable joy.

Before the race I attended a meet-up for a Facebook group created specifically for this race. I've never encountered such an incredible group of people. I was amazed by the support the group had provided online, and the members were just as inspiring in person. I was moved by how welcoming everyone was, and it was so much fun to meet other runners in person! The leaders of the group provided goodies and prizes and shared inspiring stories and messages. I couldn't think of a better way to prepare for what seemed, to me at least, the extremely daunting task that lay ahead.

The next morning, I woke up at some freakish hour so early that even the sun was still sleeping. The energy in the corrals was far different than anything I ever experienced before. Women (and I'm sure men, although I wasn't near any) were giggling and sharing stories of runs past, their lives outside of running, their hopes and fears... Several women were passing out tokens of good luck like adorable tiny magic wands to be pinned to bibs, or glow sticks, among several other items. It's amazing, but there was so much excitement in the air that it was impossible to be sleepy despite the time.

Now, I'm not too shy to share that I had pre-race jitters. I'd had nightmares, one of which suggested I'd be swept by mile five. Butterflies invaded my tummy for days before the race; they were almost as active as when I met my husband! However, I was truly blessed to have a wonderful woman run with me, and she helped me realize how strong and capable I was. When we got to the start line, she told me to turn around and look back. I could see an ocean of runners, waiting for their turn to take off and fly. It was so humbling to see so many other wonderful people behind me, and quite comforting to know that not only did I have a buffer, but that I wouldn't be alone.

When the time to run came, I was deeply impressed that the camaraderie and joy remained, even for those who were serious about their race.As I chatted with my wonderful new friend we saw other runners pass us, some slow down, but almost all smiling. I found out that my running companion and I are apparently twins and have a ridiculous mass of interests and beliefs in common. Passing the time with her made running seem... *gasp*... easy. In fact, it was the best run I'd ever had, simply because I enjoyed the company so much.

Beyond that, there was plenty going on to keep me motivated and in awe. We passed some of the floats used in the Disney parades and I specifically recall passing the Mary Poppins based float and singing Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious. Loudly. Very loudly.

There were marching bands and cheerleaders, dancers, and hilarious spectator signs. And the characters. Oh, the characters! I have a special place in my heart for the fabulous characters (and the wonderful people playing said characters) at Disney parks. They're always so animated and play their roles so well. Captain Hook was no exception during the race. I had dressed as Captain Hook - but with a twist. I was Captain Hook being attacked by Tick Tock the crocodile. Naturally, A torn up outfit wasn't enough; I had to attach a stuffed Tick Tock to myself. Hook was the only character I wanted a photo with on course, so after waiting in line for several minutes, I was thrilled when my turn came. I ran up next to him, and before I could say a word - he ran AWAY from ME! He saw Tick Tock and hid behind another pirate. It's this kind of dedication that blows me away every time. We certainly got a good laugh before moving on, and I am so grateful for that experience.

There was no best part of the race, but crossing that finish line is certainly one of the moments I will treasure for the rest of my life. I was emotional, and my new RBF (running best friend) was so exited that I just couldn't stop myself from cry-laughing. Made for an awkward finish line photo, but I love it nonetheless. Now that the race is over, I should try to be getting back to the rest of my life. But, of course, that's ridiculous. Instead, I'll wait not-so-patiently for Princess Half Marathon Weekend and keep on running! And maybe admire my new bling...

Until next time!