Twenty Things I learned from Twenty Half Marathons.

I never claimed to be an expert. I am the same person who cried the ugly cry.. when it was run a mile day in elementary school.. I knew I would die from embarrassment or the kids laughing cause I was so slow. But somehow I found myself yesterday at the finish line of my 20 half marathon.. here are twenty things I learned some the hard way.

1. No matter what you can finish. If you want it bad enough..
2. If you get tired.. Just keep moving forward. NO matter how slow. If in doubt if you are moving forward ask someone on the course. They will help you.
3. Body Glide; Don't leave home without it. You can use that stuff anywhere.. Arms / Feet. ANYWHERE!
4. There is a huge difference between cotton and dri weave especially when it comes to socks.
5. The faster you go the faster you are done.
6. No matter how great you feel crossing the finish line.. crossing it with someone you have trained  beats that feeling 100 times over. Watching them cross that off there bucket list is amazing.
7. There is no such thing as too many running shoes. Some women prefer purses/ or jewelry. I am happiest with new running shoes.
8.If they are calling for rain.. bring a poncho. If it doesn't rain you can throw it down.. if your poncho rips during the race help yourself to one that has been discarded. There is no shame ( not that I have ever done that :) )
9. If it's hot.. slow down.
10.Crossing the finish line with a friend is way better than alone. It gets lonely on the course.
11. That being said the first time you cross it alone. You know it was all you. It is quite a feeling.
12. Whether you walk or run.. its the same finish line.
13. Nothing beats your family following you around the course cheering you on.
14. Except maybe your kids holding your hands arm in arm across the finish line.. after you beat your PR that they have heard you talk about. Saying .." Lets break this record today Mom"
15. Sometimes training sucks. Period.
16. Ibuprofen.. almost as necessary as body glide.
17. Desination races can become addicting. But I have decided there are far worse things to be addicted to.
18. Runners are not always a size two. Don't  judge a book by its cover.
19. Any friend who is by side for  your first half with you in a tropical storm .. is a friend you want by your for life.
20. The minute you cross the finish line. You are always thinking about your next race.

First half in tropical storm Ike...






               20 half's later.