did it again.

Same time last year, we did it for the first time. And at sunrise this morning, I joined two delightful friends (Thank you A and F!!) and together we walked 13.1 grueling yet beautiful miles in the Eugene Half Marathon. We kept a brisk 15 minute mile pace, to finish in 3 hours, 15 minutes...laughing and spurring each other on the whole way. The blisters on the soles of my feet are the size of half dollars. Despite John's massages, ibuprofen and the hot tub my lower body is one long ache. And I have rarely been this happy.

I feel a deep sense of accomplishment and joy and hope.

So many life lessons in this race-it is difficult to sum up my thoughts on it all. Suffice it to say that it was more than an athletic event. It felt like one long metaphor. The victory wasn't in

just crossing that line but in the lessons along the way...in areas I struggle in, like perseverance. In finishing what I start. In keeping my commitments to my friends. In letting go of perfectionism. In relaxing and enjoying the scenery as I go. In not comparing myself with others. Things that will be with me, long after the blisters have healed.

I am not an athlete.

I am a middle aged housewife.

But I went 13.1 miles!

twice!

Never been a jewelry aficionado but I like these. If my Father continues blessing so abundantly with lessons to keep, and friendship for the journey?

I plan to bring a shiny new pendant home every Spring!