Tale of Two Marathons

Happy Birthday!

A year ago my world was focused primarily on when my next race was, what training run would I get in that day, going over every little detail of the elevation profile or course map for my upcoming race. I could tell you every point along the course where I would eat a gel, where there would be an uphill, where you turn right. I'm racing a 50 next weekend and lets see, there are aid stations every so often, lots of hills and gorgeous views.  I'm running a different marathon now with a whole new set of adventures and one that you can never fully plan for. Its exciting and challenging and many days not so different from the marathon I used to run. In fact there are many days I feel like I can still manage to run both marathons, side by side. One thing I know for sure, I would never wish to be running a marathon different from the one I'm doing now.

Sometimes in life you get exactly what you need. On May 4, 2012 I got 4 pounds of exactly what I needed. I may not have known it then, but what James has unexpectedly brought into my life is pure joy. Every smile, every grunt, every snuggle and around the neck bear hug make up for all the days spent at Children's, for all the worry, for lugging around oxygen tanks for a year. I needed to slow down, to appreciate the little things and that's exactly what I got this year. I've celebrated two eyes being open at the same time, jumped for joy when my bowl of pasta was thrown on the floor and cried for joy when James reached his arms out at me.

The day you were born...

You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have -unknown

I always knew I was strong, but James has taught me a new level of strength. He has taught me to keep digging long after I thought all my strength was gone, and surprisingly I've never hit the point where I couldn't keep going. Each day I know I need to keep fighting for my little man, I need to be strong for him. It's something I think will help carry me through Leadville this year. Going into Leadville I'm stronger mentally than I think I've ever been before.

It's been a year and the typical walking, talking milestones are quite a ways off, but we'll get there. Determination and hard work have always been my strengths. James may not have my brown hair or brown eyes, but I can see my hard work, determination and strength in him. This lil guy doesn't give up, certainly not without a fight. And I don't either.

At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each one of us has cause to think deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. -unknown

Each day with James has been an adventure, some good, some bad, some scary, but all of it beautiful. Happy Birthday to my lil grommie who has opened my heart in unimaginable ways. I'm excited to enjoy each day this coming year with James. To see what marathons we run. All the twists and turns, all the mountains we have to climb and all the views from the summits. See you at the top buddy!

You're off to great places. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting so get on your way! -Dr Suess