It seems as the Christmas season goes by faster and faster every year. This year was no exception...with Christmas preparations, shopping, baking, cleaning, wrapping, visiting, caroling, etc. Throw in a couple of wrestling matches and concerts to attend, the evenings fill up very fast. What would I have done without my friends and family?! I would, however, find time to view the random flash mobs on You-tube, or to see what's happening on Facebook. I even had a dear friend almost leave us due to a heart attack, then sliding into a coma. With my head spinning, trying not to stress, I stepped back to view my life for a moment...as if a third person. This is what I saw...
My 10-year-old daughter wrapping almost every gift for our family; my sons (12 & 14) helping with the baking; my whole family stepped in to clean; my 16-year-old driving the other kids to purchase gifts; caroling with my 10-year-old and her 4-H group at an Elderly Home; my 14-year-old helping me put lights up on the rooftop; my 5-year-old helping to assemble the Christmas cards...
At the wrestling matches, crowds came to cheer on each wrestler to victory or lift up in defeat; at the concerts (not a seat left open) all ears were wide open waiting for the next song or note played, with frantic cheering for more...
Ever seen a flash mob? If not live, I recommend view them on You-tube. It starts off as one person singing or playing an instrument in a busy crowd of individuals doing their own thing. It ends with a very large number of incredibly talented performers, using a public venue as their stage and all those individuals become one audience covered in goosebumps...all focused on the same thing.
The many prayers that were said for my friend to be healed were answered...a miracle. I know one faithful prayer is powerful, imagine hundreds of them, or even thousands, or more. God is listening. He is waiting to hear from me and everyone else. Keep the faith, and stay in touch with Him. That's what I tell myself everyday.
What does all this have to do with Patriot Running? Everything I saw, involved more than one person. The more people there were, the more effective the outcome..the quicker gifts were wrapped, the more powerful the songs were, the louder the cheers were, etc. I witnessed how there truly are strength in numbers. If every patriot in this country stood up for its freedom and all that it has to offer, 2012 could be a powerful year. When we all have the same focus, the same goal, the same purpose (setting aside our differences)...we are one. I truly believe that there are strength in numbers. May God Bless America!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
A Day to Remember 11-11-11
"World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” - officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of 'the war to end all wars'.”
Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word 'Armistice' and inserting in its place the word 'Veterans.' On June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars."
-US Department of Veteran's Affairs website
Every year, our elementary & middle school invites veteran's from the area to come and be honored. The program started by presenting the colors which was done by the Girl Scout troops followed by the audience joining in the Pledge of Allegiance. What happened after the welcome really impressed me. The gym was filled with elementary children K-4th grade, about 20 veterans, teachers, family & friends. All stood and sang "The National Anthem". Those kids blew me away! They knew every word and sang with pride and confidence!
Each serviceman & woman had the opportunity to stand up, say their name, which brand of service, and where & when they have served. Many of them thanked the kids for honoring them. One particular vet pointed out to the children that the war these men & women have seen is not like the ones seen in video games. "War is not just battles," he said, "it is so much more than that. The troops help other countries as well as protecting our own. There is a lot of good going on, not just shooting." A point well made, I thought. Another vet, my stepfather, got up to introduce himself. On a side note, he had been called by my daughter an hour before the program started, and was able to make it there in time. She so desperately wanted him to come. I never know what he is going to say. He is one the best spontaneous speakers I know. He went on by saying, "There is a young lady here, who has five children and has been walking the halls of this school for many years. She now runs marathons with a 3 x 5 American flag in honor of those who serve and protect our freedom." That was it, then he sat down. I wasn't ready for that. The woman behind me handed me a tissue just in time.
We sang patriotic songs, had a moment of silence, (I never thought a gym could be that quiet with that many children in it) and the colors were retired.
Later, it was the middle school's turn to invite the veterans to be honored. It was a packed house, filled with students, grades 5th-8th, teachers, family & friends of about 60 veterans. The band played, the choir sang, the Pledge was said, and "America, the Beautiful" was sung by a beautiful angelic voice of a 7th grade girl. All branches of the military were honored with song. Each man & woman stood when their branch song was played. There were WWII vets, Vietnam vets, Korean war vets, Desert Storm & Iraqi Freedom vets.
A sergeant spoke about his tours and experiences in the Army. He will again leave his family and be deployed for another year very soon. He wanted everyone to know how grateful he was to be honored like this, but to also not to forget the families. He said, "When you thank a vet, be sure to thank their wives/husbands, children & other family members as well. It is harder on the families who stay behind than the serviceman/woman who are actually deployed."
Another service woman stood and thanked everyone for coming. She said emotionally, "You don't know how this makes all of us feel when we get honored." We were reminded that Vietnam vets were not honored in the way we honor vets today. Isn't is wonderful how all are honored now! Even though, I think they could be honored even more...is it ever enough to thank the one who sacrifices to keep you free?
Members of the 8th grade class made the most poignant gesture. One brought a small table and set it next to the podium. Another draped a white table cloth over it. The next put on a vase with one red rose. The next put on a single candle with a black bow. Then a plate was placed with a lemon, and salt sprinkled on top, representing the tears that have been shed. The glass was placed upside down, showing that there will never be anyone drinking from it. The last item placed was an empty chair. Every item had meaning. The table had been set for the soldier who will never return, the soldier who has given their life for their country and our freedom. It was a table for the MIA's and the POW's. A moment of silence followed, and silent it was.
As we left, we had the opportunity to thank each veteran as they lined up in a receiving line. I was so ecstatic to be able to personally thank each one.
I was so proud of our school and how they took the time to set up such wonderful programs to honor these heroes. It was a good day to be a Patriot.
Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word 'Armistice' and inserting in its place the word 'Veterans.' On June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars."
-US Department of Veteran's Affairs website
Every year, our elementary & middle school invites veteran's from the area to come and be honored. The program started by presenting the colors which was done by the Girl Scout troops followed by the audience joining in the Pledge of Allegiance. What happened after the welcome really impressed me. The gym was filled with elementary children K-4th grade, about 20 veterans, teachers, family & friends. All stood and sang "The National Anthem". Those kids blew me away! They knew every word and sang with pride and confidence!
Each serviceman & woman had the opportunity to stand up, say their name, which brand of service, and where & when they have served. Many of them thanked the kids for honoring them. One particular vet pointed out to the children that the war these men & women have seen is not like the ones seen in video games. "War is not just battles," he said, "it is so much more than that. The troops help other countries as well as protecting our own. There is a lot of good going on, not just shooting." A point well made, I thought. Another vet, my stepfather, got up to introduce himself. On a side note, he had been called by my daughter an hour before the program started, and was able to make it there in time. She so desperately wanted him to come. I never know what he is going to say. He is one the best spontaneous speakers I know. He went on by saying, "There is a young lady here, who has five children and has been walking the halls of this school for many years. She now runs marathons with a 3 x 5 American flag in honor of those who serve and protect our freedom." That was it, then he sat down. I wasn't ready for that. The woman behind me handed me a tissue just in time.
We sang patriotic songs, had a moment of silence, (I never thought a gym could be that quiet with that many children in it) and the colors were retired.
Later, it was the middle school's turn to invite the veterans to be honored. It was a packed house, filled with students, grades 5th-8th, teachers, family & friends of about 60 veterans. The band played, the choir sang, the Pledge was said, and "America, the Beautiful" was sung by a beautiful angelic voice of a 7th grade girl. All branches of the military were honored with song. Each man & woman stood when their branch song was played. There were WWII vets, Vietnam vets, Korean war vets, Desert Storm & Iraqi Freedom vets.
A sergeant spoke about his tours and experiences in the Army. He will again leave his family and be deployed for another year very soon. He wanted everyone to know how grateful he was to be honored like this, but to also not to forget the families. He said, "When you thank a vet, be sure to thank their wives/husbands, children & other family members as well. It is harder on the families who stay behind than the serviceman/woman who are actually deployed."
Another service woman stood and thanked everyone for coming. She said emotionally, "You don't know how this makes all of us feel when we get honored." We were reminded that Vietnam vets were not honored in the way we honor vets today. Isn't is wonderful how all are honored now! Even though, I think they could be honored even more...is it ever enough to thank the one who sacrifices to keep you free?
Members of the 8th grade class made the most poignant gesture. One brought a small table and set it next to the podium. Another draped a white table cloth over it. The next put on a vase with one red rose. The next put on a single candle with a black bow. Then a plate was placed with a lemon, and salt sprinkled on top, representing the tears that have been shed. The glass was placed upside down, showing that there will never be anyone drinking from it. The last item placed was an empty chair. Every item had meaning. The table had been set for the soldier who will never return, the soldier who has given their life for their country and our freedom. It was a table for the MIA's and the POW's. A moment of silence followed, and silent it was.
As we left, we had the opportunity to thank each veteran as they lined up in a receiving line. I was so ecstatic to be able to personally thank each one.
I was so proud of our school and how they took the time to set up such wonderful programs to honor these heroes. It was a good day to be a Patriot.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Patriot Run #5 ~ Blue Devil 5K
The University of Wisconsin-Stout dwells in the town of Menomonie, WI, where I went to school for two years and where my husband proposed to me ♥ It is only fitting for us to run the UW-Stout Blue Devil 5K. A beautiful looped course that runs alongside the Cedar River, through town, and through campus. On a fall morning, how can we resist?! As we came into Menomonie, fog was just lifting over Lake Menomin, the leaves were in full color and a perfect temp of 50 degrees.
My husband, son, and neighbors were ready to run the 5K. After our usual warm-up session, I unfurled the flag with about 5 minutes before the start. Instead of starting near the back, I decided to change things up a bit and start near the front. I also wanted to try to keep my son, Zac & our neighbor Nate, in view. Both boys are on the middle school cross country team that I help coach, and both are very good. (They placed 2nd ~Nate and 3rd ~Zac in the under 18 group)
Not much is said about the flag in the beginning of the race, but that's okay. I know it gets people thinking, positive or negative - they're thinking! Like the last race, there is a bit of wind drag. I still love the flapping sound. As we came down the hill to the start of the river, there was a small child in a stroller who got pretty excited to see the flag coming. The dad standing beside him, validated his enthusiasm and gave a little cheer. That's what I love to see - youth getting excited to see the flag, and hopefully to know that it's not just for decoration, it means something!
There was a moment I wished to capture and be able to play it over and over: Running alongside the mist covered Cedar River in the early morning sun with leaves gently falling, and flag gently flapping. Wow... wish I could share that memory video! A handful of runners passed and would say things like, "Good job!" or "Thank you!" ...puts a smile on my face every time.
As I made the ascent up to the bridge which led to the campus and town, I got to wondering where do college kids stand these days, as far as, understanding what the flag represents and how precious that really is. Maybe, its hard for them to truly appreciate our freedom, maybe not.
Coming to the last 400meters, I believe I saw something I'd never thought I'd see during a race. A group of young men - I presume it was the UW Men's cross country team - dressed as women, running together in the opposite direction, cheering on the finishers. They got even more crazy when they saw the flag coming..."Yeah! Go USA!!!" Definitely smile worthy ☺
I bettered my time by about a minute from the last race, and felt great! While doing the recovery walk, a man who also had just finished, asked a familiar question, "Did you run the whole way with the flag?" I love answering that one ☺ I walked inside the gym, began to unfurl the flag, and a woman caught me to ask if she could get a picture of her two children holding the flag. "Absolutely!" I said. The second time I began to put the flag away, a group of three college kids came up to me to ask the golden questions, "why & how?" I filled them in with all the details and told them of the blog. We talked for a few minutes, then went about our business
I realized why I was meant to run this race. It was to see that there are many youth of all ages proud to be an American, who respect the flag and who understand that it stands for something. Hats off to them! They are our future leaders. I pray for them.
One last thing...a very patriotic friend of mine, a veteran, posted something for me to see. It was Red Skelton's "Pledge of Allegiance. I have the link listed under the "links to check out". Check it out! In it, Red defines every word in the pledge. Here's what he had to say about the flag, "...Our standard, Old Glory, a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there is respect, because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts freedom is everybody's job!"
Thanks Red!
My husband, son, and neighbors were ready to run the 5K. After our usual warm-up session, I unfurled the flag with about 5 minutes before the start. Instead of starting near the back, I decided to change things up a bit and start near the front. I also wanted to try to keep my son, Zac & our neighbor Nate, in view. Both boys are on the middle school cross country team that I help coach, and both are very good. (They placed 2nd ~Nate and 3rd ~Zac in the under 18 group)
Not much is said about the flag in the beginning of the race, but that's okay. I know it gets people thinking, positive or negative - they're thinking! Like the last race, there is a bit of wind drag. I still love the flapping sound. As we came down the hill to the start of the river, there was a small child in a stroller who got pretty excited to see the flag coming. The dad standing beside him, validated his enthusiasm and gave a little cheer. That's what I love to see - youth getting excited to see the flag, and hopefully to know that it's not just for decoration, it means something!
There was a moment I wished to capture and be able to play it over and over: Running alongside the mist covered Cedar River in the early morning sun with leaves gently falling, and flag gently flapping. Wow... wish I could share that memory video! A handful of runners passed and would say things like, "Good job!" or "Thank you!" ...puts a smile on my face every time.
As I made the ascent up to the bridge which led to the campus and town, I got to wondering where do college kids stand these days, as far as, understanding what the flag represents and how precious that really is. Maybe, its hard for them to truly appreciate our freedom, maybe not.
Coming to the last 400meters, I believe I saw something I'd never thought I'd see during a race. A group of young men - I presume it was the UW Men's cross country team - dressed as women, running together in the opposite direction, cheering on the finishers. They got even more crazy when they saw the flag coming..."Yeah! Go USA!!!" Definitely smile worthy ☺
I bettered my time by about a minute from the last race, and felt great! While doing the recovery walk, a man who also had just finished, asked a familiar question, "Did you run the whole way with the flag?" I love answering that one ☺ I walked inside the gym, began to unfurl the flag, and a woman caught me to ask if she could get a picture of her two children holding the flag. "Absolutely!" I said. The second time I began to put the flag away, a group of three college kids came up to me to ask the golden questions, "why & how?" I filled them in with all the details and told them of the blog. We talked for a few minutes, then went about our business
I realized why I was meant to run this race. It was to see that there are many youth of all ages proud to be an American, who respect the flag and who understand that it stands for something. Hats off to them! They are our future leaders. I pray for them.
One last thing...a very patriotic friend of mine, a veteran, posted something for me to see. It was Red Skelton's "Pledge of Allegiance. I have the link listed under the "links to check out". Check it out! In it, Red defines every word in the pledge. Here's what he had to say about the flag, "...Our standard, Old Glory, a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there is respect, because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts freedom is everybody's job!"
Thanks Red!
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Patriot Run #4 ~ Panther Pant 5K
How can I not run with the colors close to home? The small town of Hammond, WI holds a Panther Pant 5K every summer which has a good local turnout. Does it have the big crowds, or screaming spectators? No, but it was still worth running. Our middle & high school reside in Hammond, and Panthers are the mascot, thus the name "Panther Pant".
Jordan, my second oldest son and cross country runner also ran this race. We noticed there was plenty of room at the start of the race. This was new for us! At a half a mile into the start, a police officer was helping to direct traffic. He nodded, clapped and said, "Very nice." I felt good this race, even though the wind was stronger than I've experienced. There was just something about the sound of the flapping in my ear as I ran down that country road. The heart of America is not in a downtown metropolitan area. It's the quiet country fields with blowing grasses and whispering corn stalks, with wide open roads. What a perfect place for the US flag!
I had a couple of very small (but very important) fan clubs cheering along the way. One at the start/finish and one near the half-way point. Gotta love those cheering sections! ☺ We made our turn around and worked our way up a very long, but gently sloping hill. I passed a runner and heard him say something like, "Go flag girl!" When I reached the top of the hill, the policeman was there and in his car. He saw the flag, got out, stood at attention, and again nodded in approval.
Just a half a mile to go and all downhill, love that! I thought it was fitting to hoist the colors the last 200 yards. The elementary school principal was volunteering at the finish. He was the guy taking the tags. He congratulated me on a good race. It's always nice to impress the principal, right? ☺ Another guy said, "Wow, and that was with an added..." he finished by gesturing with his hands holding something. I kept walking past because I needed too. "...strength," he finished.
Our head cross country coach also wondered if my arms were tired after running as we met after the race. What people don't realize is the strength I receive from holding the flag. Instead of being tired or having arms in pain, I feel so strong, so blessed.
We ended the morning by walking through a car show in downtown Hammond. On two separate occasions I saw the phrase, "Freedom isn't Free." Once hoisted high on a crane, and once on the back of a t-shirt. May I always remember this simple yet meaningful phrase as I carry on with my daily activities in my simple life.
Jordan, my second oldest son and cross country runner also ran this race. We noticed there was plenty of room at the start of the race. This was new for us! At a half a mile into the start, a police officer was helping to direct traffic. He nodded, clapped and said, "Very nice." I felt good this race, even though the wind was stronger than I've experienced. There was just something about the sound of the flapping in my ear as I ran down that country road. The heart of America is not in a downtown metropolitan area. It's the quiet country fields with blowing grasses and whispering corn stalks, with wide open roads. What a perfect place for the US flag!
I had a couple of very small (but very important) fan clubs cheering along the way. One at the start/finish and one near the half-way point. Gotta love those cheering sections! ☺ We made our turn around and worked our way up a very long, but gently sloping hill. I passed a runner and heard him say something like, "Go flag girl!" When I reached the top of the hill, the policeman was there and in his car. He saw the flag, got out, stood at attention, and again nodded in approval. 
Just a half a mile to go and all downhill, love that! I thought it was fitting to hoist the colors the last 200 yards. The elementary school principal was volunteering at the finish. He was the guy taking the tags. He congratulated me on a good race. It's always nice to impress the principal, right? ☺ Another guy said, "Wow, and that was with an added..." he finished by gesturing with his hands holding something. I kept walking past because I needed too. "...strength," he finished.
Our head cross country coach also wondered if my arms were tired after running as we met after the race. What people don't realize is the strength I receive from holding the flag. Instead of being tired or having arms in pain, I feel so strong, so blessed.
We ended the morning by walking through a car show in downtown Hammond. On two separate occasions I saw the phrase, "Freedom isn't Free." Once hoisted high on a crane, and once on the back of a t-shirt. May I always remember this simple yet meaningful phrase as I carry on with my daily activities in my simple life.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Patriot Run #3 ~ Willow River Run 10K
Returning from a week long vacation in Colorado at 11:30pm, gave the family a good excuse to not come with me the next morning for an early 10K race ten miles north of my home. I don't blame them. They've been supporting my crazy goals all along, I'll give them a brake ;-)
One of my close friends met me in New Richmond, WI where the race would begin. It was a cool, foggy morning. I hadn't registered yet, because I didn't know if we would return in time from vacation. I took care of that, then my friend & I began our warm-ups and stretching. I grabbed Old Glory all wound up, just waiting to be unfurled yet again. We began near the back of the pack, as it was our first 10K for both of us. Knowing I was tired from all the traveling, I just wanted to enjoy the route and get my message out.
We chatted most of the way. It kept my mind off of the fact it was a 10K. Believe it or not, 10K's scare me. I love 5K's, half marathon's, and of course love the challenge of a marathon, but 10K's for some reason scare me. I think it's because it is run at a 5K pace, but twice the distance. I've seen some amazing runners come in with some impressive times. These Patriot runs, however, have a way of easing my mind of my own troubles, and getting me to focus on so much more important issues.
There weren't many spectators for this race. It was early, it is a small town. As usual, there were the runners who would pass us saying, "Good job! Thumbs up!" and "You get extra points for that!" It is always humbling to hear a "Thank you," as a vet would pass by, for it is me that should be thanking them. I sometimes clamor up my words because there is so much I'd like to say to them, but mostly I simply reply, "It is an honor."
Running past one of the water stations, the flag flapped one of the volunteers right in the face...oops! "Sorry!" I shouted back. They just laughed. There were gusts of wind at times, but somehow, miraculously, the flag was not difficult to carry. My friend held it for me for a few steps while I got a drink of water. (personally, I think she just really wanted to be apart of the patriot experience :) We finished with a relaxed time of 54:43.
A couple of days later, a man from the New Richmond Newspaper called me to question me about my purpose of running with a flag. We had a nice phone interview. He thought it was pretty cool. ~ The following week, I was at Wal-Mart. I looked down at the check out lane, noticing that a small picture of me had made the front page. A smile crept onto my face knowing that the message was indeed spreading, and that little me could indeed make a difference. And so, I continue to run...
One of my close friends met me in New Richmond, WI where the race would begin. It was a cool, foggy morning. I hadn't registered yet, because I didn't know if we would return in time from vacation. I took care of that, then my friend & I began our warm-ups and stretching. I grabbed Old Glory all wound up, just waiting to be unfurled yet again. We began near the back of the pack, as it was our first 10K for both of us. Knowing I was tired from all the traveling, I just wanted to enjoy the route and get my message out.
We chatted most of the way. It kept my mind off of the fact it was a 10K. Believe it or not, 10K's scare me. I love 5K's, half marathon's, and of course love the challenge of a marathon, but 10K's for some reason scare me. I think it's because it is run at a 5K pace, but twice the distance. I've seen some amazing runners come in with some impressive times. These Patriot runs, however, have a way of easing my mind of my own troubles, and getting me to focus on so much more important issues.
There weren't many spectators for this race. It was early, it is a small town. As usual, there were the runners who would pass us saying, "Good job! Thumbs up!" and "You get extra points for that!" It is always humbling to hear a "Thank you," as a vet would pass by, for it is me that should be thanking them. I sometimes clamor up my words because there is so much I'd like to say to them, but mostly I simply reply, "It is an honor."
A couple of days later, a man from the New Richmond Newspaper called me to question me about my purpose of running with a flag. We had a nice phone interview. He thought it was pretty cool. ~ The following week, I was at Wal-Mart. I looked down at the check out lane, noticing that a small picture of me had made the front page. A smile crept onto my face knowing that the message was indeed spreading, and that little me could indeed make a difference. And so, I continue to run...
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
4th of July Freedom Run
In planning our family vacation to Colorado over the 4th of July, I felt I had to search for a race to run on the 4th. How could I pass up such a patriotic run? The Freedom Run in Evergreen, CO, only minutes away from where we were staying, seemed to be the best choice.
On the morning of the 4th, my dad took me into Evergreen, over 8,000 ft elevation...much higher than what my lungs are used to, but I was ready. I mean, really, I had just completed a marathon 2 weeks prior, right? He dropped me off at the start site, which differed from the finish area, then went down to the finish to meet the rest of the crew. I signed up, put on my number, found a kind lady with a stroller to carry my shirt, and walked to the start line. It was a big race, one of the biggest on the 4th in the state of Colorado, apparently. There were over 600 runners/walkers.
I began unfurling Old Glory and a man approached me who was volunteering that day. He smiled as he said, "I'm so happy to see that you are carrying the flag! Every year for this race it has been my tradition to carry the flag, but this year I had decided to volunteer, so thanks!" He gave me some pointers about the course and said, "See you at the finish!" There were quite a few who asked me, "Are you going to carry that the whole way?" "Yes, I am." I would respond. (thinking to myself, if only they realized I had just carried it 26 miles 2 weeks ago) One little red-haired boy, in particular, asked me that same question as he looked up at me. I answered him and he said, "wow!" thought about it for a couple of seconds, then went on his way. He was so cute!
The race director began explaining the course to all the runners. He said don't be fooled by the downhill first mile. There is a couple of nasty hills before the final descent to the finish. "Ok", I thought, "I can do this. The gun went off and so were we. Downhill was right! We were in the Rocky Mountains...what else would there be? Along the course, there was a man playing bagpipes, men playing guitars, a whole choir singing patriotic songs, and quite a few spectators along the way, many holding flags and banners. The scenery was incredibly gorgeous! What do you expect from the Rockies? I want to thank the photographer, Cheryl Newhall, for donating the photos taken at the race. (Who, by the way, also served, and was happy to see the flag flying!) Nearing the end, I could hear the announcer and music playing. By this time, I was gasping for air...I counted 3 big hills, not 2...but I did it! (there is video of the finish)
Many people thanked me for carrying the flag, and as always I respond by saying I am honored to do so. The finisher's area was quite the party. There was food, booths, live music, a balloon animal maker, and of course, a jump castle. A couple came up to me to tell me they really liked my shirt, especially the back, which reads, "One nation under God". They explained to me that just a week ago or so, NBC was broadcasting the Masters golf tournament. They had put together this beautiful montage of photos from around the nation which were shown in a slide show format to the words of the Pledge of Allegiance. That sounds very nice, except they purposely left out the words, "one nation under God". Well, that made a few people mad, as it should, and they apologized the next day. See what we can do if we stand up? My hope with every race I do, is to find people who "stand up"; people who are thankful to live here in the US and who are willing to fight to keep it the way it should be. I have hope. It seems when I find these people, these patriots, it's a unanimous feeling of gratitude. Whatever it is that makes these people cheer, clap, chant, comment, or salute as the flag passes them, seems to affect everyone positively in similar ways. Imagine... One nation united under God...I can.
On the morning of the 4th, my dad took me into Evergreen, over 8,000 ft elevation...much higher than what my lungs are used to, but I was ready. I mean, really, I had just completed a marathon 2 weeks prior, right? He dropped me off at the start site, which differed from the finish area, then went down to the finish to meet the rest of the crew. I signed up, put on my number, found a kind lady with a stroller to carry my shirt, and walked to the start line. It was a big race, one of the biggest on the 4th in the state of Colorado, apparently. There were over 600 runners/walkers.
I began unfurling Old Glory and a man approached me who was volunteering that day. He smiled as he said, "I'm so happy to see that you are carrying the flag! Every year for this race it has been my tradition to carry the flag, but this year I had decided to volunteer, so thanks!" He gave me some pointers about the course and said, "See you at the finish!" There were quite a few who asked me, "Are you going to carry that the whole way?" "Yes, I am." I would respond. (thinking to myself, if only they realized I had just carried it 26 miles 2 weeks ago) One little red-haired boy, in particular, asked me that same question as he looked up at me. I answered him and he said, "wow!" thought about it for a couple of seconds, then went on his way. He was so cute!
The race director began explaining the course to all the runners. He said don't be fooled by the downhill first mile. There is a couple of nasty hills before the final descent to the finish. "Ok", I thought, "I can do this. The gun went off and so were we. Downhill was right! We were in the Rocky Mountains...what else would there be? Along the course, there was a man playing bagpipes, men playing guitars, a whole choir singing patriotic songs, and quite a few spectators along the way, many holding flags and banners. The scenery was incredibly gorgeous! What do you expect from the Rockies? I want to thank the photographer, Cheryl Newhall, for donating the photos taken at the race. (Who, by the way, also served, and was happy to see the flag flying!) Nearing the end, I could hear the announcer and music playing. By this time, I was gasping for air...I counted 3 big hills, not 2...but I did it! (there is video of the finish)
Many people thanked me for carrying the flag, and as always I respond by saying I am honored to do so. The finisher's area was quite the party. There was food, booths, live music, a balloon animal maker, and of course, a jump castle. A couple came up to me to tell me they really liked my shirt, especially the back, which reads, "One nation under God". They explained to me that just a week ago or so, NBC was broadcasting the Masters golf tournament. They had put together this beautiful montage of photos from around the nation which were shown in a slide show format to the words of the Pledge of Allegiance. That sounds very nice, except they purposely left out the words, "one nation under God". Well, that made a few people mad, as it should, and they apologized the next day. See what we can do if we stand up? My hope with every race I do, is to find people who "stand up"; people who are thankful to live here in the US and who are willing to fight to keep it the way it should be. I have hope. It seems when I find these people, these patriots, it's a unanimous feeling of gratitude. Whatever it is that makes these people cheer, clap, chant, comment, or salute as the flag passes them, seems to affect everyone positively in similar ways. Imagine... One nation united under God...I can. |
| "The crew" |
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Grandma's 35th Marathon (Part 2)
We had shed the garbage bags a couple of miles into the race. Thankfully, the wind was at our backs most of the way...that comes in handy when carrying a flag ☺ Though, if the wind changed from side to side, the flag had a way of mummifying me. Not a problem, I just kept running as I unwrapped. Temperatures seemed fine as long as you didn't stop. Once stopped, you felt the chilly wind coming off of the lake, once chilled, it was hard to get the warm back.
Coming to mile 17-18 brings the runners into Duluth, where there are more spectators, even on a day when it is upper 40's with a chilly breeze. The man from Atlanta had caught up with me. He was checking up with me, sort of like a father-figure I guess you could say. He asked, "How are you feeling'?" I answered, "Like I've been running with a flag for 18 miles, I'm finally tired, but I'm still smiling!"
The energy level rises whenever there are people cheering on the sidelines. I heard people shouting, "Go America!" & "Go USA!" as I passed. Some were holding flags themselves. People seemed to know me. "There she is! It's the flag girl! The American girl! You made it! We've been waiting for you!" What really threw me was people knew my name, who I didn't know. "Go Jean!" I heard several times. I'd take a quick glance, smile, and say "thanks!"
Seeing my husband around mile 20 brought tears to my eyes...he has a way of bringing out my emotions. I was at a point where I was pretty tired, yet so elevated that I had made it that far. It was a happy cry, and a quick one. I found it difficult to cry and run at the same time. He ran with me for about a mile and got to experience what it was like to escort the flag down a path of exuberant young volunteers during a water stand. "U-S-A...U-S-A!" they would shout as they held out their hand for a high five while the flag was held high in the other hand. There is just something to be said for a large crowd chanting in unison, especially when they are shouting for something you're doing...I just couldn't stop smiling!
Dan, my husband, ran with me until we came to my biggest fan club, my family. My parents had made a surprise visit. I had to make a quick stop for a kiss & a hug for them! So good to see them! My friend had made a large poster that my kids & cousins were holding that read, "Go Jean! You can do it! Thank you Vets!" Then...they picked it up and ran with it! It was awesome!
There is a hill around mile 22 known as Lemon Drop that anyone who has ran Grandma's knows of. I had to walk a few times before then because I knew at the top there was going to be a photographer, Paul Walsh, clicking away. One of the shots he captured is my profile picture...thumbs up and a big ol' smile! I wanted to run up that monster. It was almost as if the flag carried me up that hill. You could tell all the runners around me were pretty tired...it was quiet between crowds of people. But it was during those moments when I experienced such powerful messages. There was an elderly woman who had been sitting in her car, in her driveway, watching the marathon. When she saw the flag coming, she got out, hobbled to the front of her car and clapped ever so softly, yet her patriotism rang out loud and clear.
A man stood next to my husband, asking me questions, like, "How do you feel? Are your legs sore? Did you carry it the whole way?" Then he thanked me. He told us he was a vet and appreciated what I had done. He then asked to have his picture taken with me. I was honored and thanked him for serving. ~ Then a man from Germany, who had run the race, also was curious as to what I had done. He said, he didn't believe that Americans really knew how good they have it. He had come here many years ago from Germany with not much money, not much of anything. Yet, he was able to make something of himself. Something he could not have done in his country. He thanked me and went on his way. ~ My adventure wasn't quite over. I headed over to the place to pick up our bags. Apparently, I was shaking so badly, the worker told me to wait there, she was getting a medic. So, for 20 minutes or more, I was warmed up in the medic tent due to suffering hypothermia. The nurses there, unfurled the flag, took my picture with my phone, then rolled it up and laid it beside me. Fitting, right? I carried it 26 miles, and it lay by my side until I was well enough to return home. I help my country, and my country will help me... maybe it's a stretch, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Coming to mile 17-18 brings the runners into Duluth, where there are more spectators, even on a day when it is upper 40's with a chilly breeze. The man from Atlanta had caught up with me. He was checking up with me, sort of like a father-figure I guess you could say. He asked, "How are you feeling'?" I answered, "Like I've been running with a flag for 18 miles, I'm finally tired, but I'm still smiling!"
The energy level rises whenever there are people cheering on the sidelines. I heard people shouting, "Go America!" & "Go USA!" as I passed. Some were holding flags themselves. People seemed to know me. "There she is! It's the flag girl! The American girl! You made it! We've been waiting for you!" What really threw me was people knew my name, who I didn't know. "Go Jean!" I heard several times. I'd take a quick glance, smile, and say "thanks!"
 |
| Running with my husband, Dan |
Dan, my husband, ran with me until we came to my biggest fan club, my family. My parents had made a surprise visit. I had to make a quick stop for a kiss & a hug for them! So good to see them! My friend had made a large poster that my kids & cousins were holding that read, "Go Jean! You can do it! Thank you Vets!" Then...they picked it up and ran with it! It was awesome!
There is a hill around mile 22 known as Lemon Drop that anyone who has ran Grandma's knows of. I had to walk a few times before then because I knew at the top there was going to be a photographer, Paul Walsh, clicking away. One of the shots he captured is my profile picture...thumbs up and a big ol' smile! I wanted to run up that monster. It was almost as if the flag carried me up that hill. You could tell all the runners around me were pretty tired...it was quiet between crowds of people. But it was during those moments when I experienced such powerful messages. There was an elderly woman who had been sitting in her car, in her driveway, watching the marathon. When she saw the flag coming, she got out, hobbled to the front of her car and clapped ever so softly, yet her patriotism rang out loud and clear.
At times I felt like an Olympian passing groups of college kids. They'd be lined up with beer in one hand, and an empty hand held out in high anticipation of a high five from the "Flag Girl". I've never been to the Olympics, but I imagined that this is how it would have felt as one of the athletes. "U-S-A! U-S-A!" at the top of their lungs. Flag held high...not feeling any tiredness or pain at the moment, just pure exhilaration! At the end of the college line, a young man ran alongside me. He had a beer in one hand and he was holding his pants up with the other. He said, "That is so cool that you are running with the flag! Wanna beer? " I kindly said no thank you. (keep in mind he is still running beside me) Then he said, "well, I'd better go now cuz my pants are falling down." I said, "Okay, thanks!" What more do you say to that? That gave me a chuckle for the next mile for sure!
 |
| About 1 mile to go!
Coming into downtown Duluth gave strength to a tired mind. Every time I raised the flag, the crowd got louder. That's what I was after. The pure love for their country. My husband, friend & uncle made it to downtown to be apart of the cheering crowd. At mile 24, I was ready to see that finish line. About 1 mile away, we ran under a bridge which had people on it. Again, "U-S-A...U-S-A!" Plus some cow bells, got en grained in my head.
Finally, I rounded the corner to the finish line. Ahhhh! Raising my hands in the air, I was so grateful to have finished! So grateful to be done! Making my way through the finish line into the runner's area, many asked, "Did you run the whole way with that?" "Yep" ☺ "Wow"...
|
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| Finish line in sight |
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Grandma's 35th Marathon (part 1)
The race began and we were off. I needed to hold the corner of the flag for the first few miles so it wouldn't flap somebody in the face. When there is that many people running, it stays pretty crowded for several miles. Now if you can picture the excitement of thousands of people, most of which were wearing garbage bags, finally getting to start their goal they've been working toward for four months. Can you hear it? No Blue Angels this year due to the weather. Just the shuffling of many, many sneakers on pavement with plastic swishing, and a few shout-outs as we left the start area. I noticed a woman looking on wearing her military outfit watching the flag as is passed. I thought, "yep, this is for you!"
One of the first runner's to talk to me, was a man from Atlanta. He was curious, as so many were, why I was carrying the flag, how I had trained for it, and if I had done this before. He thought it was pretty cool, thanked me, and wished me luck.
Another man, who had run 13 marathons, caught up with me. We chatted for a few miles. He asked the same questions, and was especially curious how I was going to solve the problem of not using my arms like I normally would without the flag. The arm swing is a crucial element of running, especially long distance running. I told him that I simply alternate hands with the flag every mile or so. Then told me how his past experiences have been with so many marathons. He'd run Grandma's before and knew exactly where the "Elvi" were which we were quickly approaching. Anyone who had ran Grandma's knows what I am talking about. There are always more than one Elvis in a group somewhere before mile 13. There is, of course, Elvis music accompanying these wonderful performers. Any way to get marathoners to get their mind off of any negative thoughts (like the distance still ahead or pain they might be experiencing) is a welcome sight!
The first 17 miles are pretty slim as far as spectators, simply because it is not easy to get to these locations along the route. The weather certainly didn't help! But, when there were people, they were cheering, clapping, giving out high-fives, holding signs, ringing cow bells...it was a refreshing sound and sight.
It seemed that as one person would leave my side after a nice chat, another would slide in. I welcomed the conversation. What wonderful people they all were! Otherwise, all that is heard for those first 17 miles is the shuffling of feet on asphalt, and in this case the waves of the lake, once in a while. So picture this, try to visualize about 50 runners around you, all so very focused on their big goal, and the only thing breaking the silence of the beautiful North Shore nature is a hundred feet all around you shuffling on the road. Then, a spunky young gal came up alongside me. She had headphones on with her music pretty loud. She raised her hands to give me a double thumbs-up and shouted, "I THINK IT'S SO GREAT WHAT YOU ARE DOING! THAT'S AWESOME!" I gave her a thumbs-up back and kept running as did she. That kept a smile on my face for quite a while.
It seemed anyone that passed me, thanked me. Some mentioned to me that they were vets themselves and really appreciated my gesture. Others who passed just thought it was just plain cool! Some had seen the news report on TV. A Canadian man shook my hand and thanked me for running for America. He thought is was pretty cool I'd do that for my country.
Maybe around mile 10 or so, there was a group with megaphones, announcing how all of us runners need to repent and give our lives to Jesus. How we can all have a clean slate with Him. Now, I'm a Christ follower, but I don't know that this was the appropriate time or place to be telling these people, who were trying to run 26 miles and focused on other things, to repent and change their ways. A girl who was running with me, said to them, "I don't feel like being preached too!" I guess I couldn't blame her. My feeling is that, if Jesus were there, he would have been cheering us on to accomplish our goal, and loving each of us as he did it. One of the megaphone people shouted, "Did you know that someone died for you?" In no disregard to Christ, I felt like saying, "Did you know that more than one person has died for us! That's why I'm carrying this flag!" But I didn't...I just kept running.
Around mile 15 or so, I had passed a man dressed as Uncle Sam. He had something posted on his back referring to a political opinion. He had a wig and hat plus a red, white and blue vest with matching shorts. Once I was ahead of him, I heard him say, "I want YOU to marry ME! You're my girl!" I answered, "I'm taken, sorry!" And kept running... it did make me smile, though. I mean, how often do you get proposed to while running??
About a mile later, out of the silence I spoke of before, I heard in song format, "There she is...Miss America!" It turned out to be a retired champion boxer by the name of Zach Walters. We talked for about a mile or two. He told me how he had just retired, but might want to box some more because he loved it so much, so for now, he wanted to run a marathon. He was intrigued to learn that my grandfather, Francesco Montanari, was the welterweight champion boxer of Italy, Spain & France. You just never know what you might have in common with random people around you. One thing we do know is that in the USA, we are all united with FREEDOM!
As we approached Duluth, spectators who were sitting, silently stood, removed their hats, and covered their hearts. If they were in uniform, they saluted. No one asked them to do so, they chose to, without calling attention to themselves, just for the sake of being grateful for what this flag represented. This single gesture is what gave me goosebumps more than anything. So humbling. So wonderful. I couldn't wait to find what lay in store in the remaining of the race...
One of the first runner's to talk to me, was a man from Atlanta. He was curious, as so many were, why I was carrying the flag, how I had trained for it, and if I had done this before. He thought it was pretty cool, thanked me, and wished me luck.
Another man, who had run 13 marathons, caught up with me. We chatted for a few miles. He asked the same questions, and was especially curious how I was going to solve the problem of not using my arms like I normally would without the flag. The arm swing is a crucial element of running, especially long distance running. I told him that I simply alternate hands with the flag every mile or so. Then told me how his past experiences have been with so many marathons. He'd run Grandma's before and knew exactly where the "Elvi" were which we were quickly approaching. Anyone who had ran Grandma's knows what I am talking about. There are always more than one Elvis in a group somewhere before mile 13. There is, of course, Elvis music accompanying these wonderful performers. Any way to get marathoners to get their mind off of any negative thoughts (like the distance still ahead or pain they might be experiencing) is a welcome sight!
The first 17 miles are pretty slim as far as spectators, simply because it is not easy to get to these locations along the route. The weather certainly didn't help! But, when there were people, they were cheering, clapping, giving out high-fives, holding signs, ringing cow bells...it was a refreshing sound and sight.
It seemed that as one person would leave my side after a nice chat, another would slide in. I welcomed the conversation. What wonderful people they all were! Otherwise, all that is heard for those first 17 miles is the shuffling of feet on asphalt, and in this case the waves of the lake, once in a while. So picture this, try to visualize about 50 runners around you, all so very focused on their big goal, and the only thing breaking the silence of the beautiful North Shore nature is a hundred feet all around you shuffling on the road. Then, a spunky young gal came up alongside me. She had headphones on with her music pretty loud. She raised her hands to give me a double thumbs-up and shouted, "I THINK IT'S SO GREAT WHAT YOU ARE DOING! THAT'S AWESOME!" I gave her a thumbs-up back and kept running as did she. That kept a smile on my face for quite a while.
It seemed anyone that passed me, thanked me. Some mentioned to me that they were vets themselves and really appreciated my gesture. Others who passed just thought it was just plain cool! Some had seen the news report on TV. A Canadian man shook my hand and thanked me for running for America. He thought is was pretty cool I'd do that for my country.
Maybe around mile 10 or so, there was a group with megaphones, announcing how all of us runners need to repent and give our lives to Jesus. How we can all have a clean slate with Him. Now, I'm a Christ follower, but I don't know that this was the appropriate time or place to be telling these people, who were trying to run 26 miles and focused on other things, to repent and change their ways. A girl who was running with me, said to them, "I don't feel like being preached too!" I guess I couldn't blame her. My feeling is that, if Jesus were there, he would have been cheering us on to accomplish our goal, and loving each of us as he did it. One of the megaphone people shouted, "Did you know that someone died for you?" In no disregard to Christ, I felt like saying, "Did you know that more than one person has died for us! That's why I'm carrying this flag!" But I didn't...I just kept running.
Around mile 15 or so, I had passed a man dressed as Uncle Sam. He had something posted on his back referring to a political opinion. He had a wig and hat plus a red, white and blue vest with matching shorts. Once I was ahead of him, I heard him say, "I want YOU to marry ME! You're my girl!" I answered, "I'm taken, sorry!" And kept running... it did make me smile, though. I mean, how often do you get proposed to while running??
About a mile later, out of the silence I spoke of before, I heard in song format, "There she is...Miss America!" It turned out to be a retired champion boxer by the name of Zach Walters. We talked for about a mile or two. He told me how he had just retired, but might want to box some more because he loved it so much, so for now, he wanted to run a marathon. He was intrigued to learn that my grandfather, Francesco Montanari, was the welterweight champion boxer of Italy, Spain & France. You just never know what you might have in common with random people around you. One thing we do know is that in the USA, we are all united with FREEDOM!
As we approached Duluth, spectators who were sitting, silently stood, removed their hats, and covered their hearts. If they were in uniform, they saluted. No one asked them to do so, they chose to, without calling attention to themselves, just for the sake of being grateful for what this flag represented. This single gesture is what gave me goosebumps more than anything. So humbling. So wonderful. I couldn't wait to find what lay in store in the remaining of the race...
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Getting to the starting line...
All packed up and headed to Duluth, with one stop in Superior for our oldest son to take his driver's exam. Successfully completing his task, we were headed across the bridge. I had an interview scheduled with WDIO tv that afternoon. Thankfully, the interview wasn't too nerve racking. First time I've ever experienced that. I was very excited to be able to get my message out. (There should be a link to the interview on this page) My uncle, the anchor of WDIO, gave us a tour of the station just before he had to go on air. As we were walking around, "teasers" of my story, which was going to headline the news, kept rolling throughout each room. It was a little strange seeing myself show up on the tv just before a commercial or something. After we had left the production room and the newsroom and were heading for the door, a young man approached me and said, "I'm sorry I didn't recognize you at first that you were the one in the news clip running with the flag. I want to thank you for doing that. I'll be going over seas in a couple of months and really appreciate what you are doing." What a deal, I thought. It brought my friend to tears who was with us and gave me goosebumps. I then told him I was honored to do so and thanked him for serving. Later that day, he actually put a call-out on facebook to any military to come and support me at the race. What a humbling moment.
In decided what should I wear, I didn't want too much attention directed at me. It was all about the flag. So I opted for black & white. At first I wanted to have names of those who have served on my shirt, quickly realizing there are way too many of just people I know, and I was running for ALL who have served, both living and deceased. Then it came to me, "United We Stand". A statement so true. Strength in numbers, right? Now for the back of my shirt. I know that there are some in congress who wish to take God out of certain places or events...well it was my job to keep Him in this one. So, "One Nation Under God" seemed perfect.
Not listening to the weather forecasts, I packed as if it was going to be "nice". I was sorely mistaken. Thanks goodness for the running expo! I was able to purchase gloves, and arm covers there. It rained and rained and rained. Waking up the morning of to rain, of course, I did my normal stretching rituals, waking up my muscles, eating what little food my stomach would tolerate, and packed up my warm-up bag, which included the ever important flag. A friend, who would also be running, was doing the same. My husband drove us to the drop off, where it was still raining, and cold...still in the 40's. My friend and I were sporting the garbage bags, as were many of the runners, to keep us dry until we get to the start. Twenty-six miles actually seems longer when driven then when run, for some odd reason. It seemed like an eternity to get to the start, raining the whole way. By some miracle, as the buses arrived in Two Harbors at the start, the rain stopped...going against what had been predicted. Hmmmm...try and tell me God wasn't a part of that!
As we got off of the bus to join the other 8500 runners and even more spectators, the energy could easily be felt. Music playing, runners busily stretching, warming up, using the porta-potties, and getting to their places in line...no turning back now! Had my final source of energy, an orange, about 20 min before the race began. After doing more stretching, they announced that they were soon going to start. Time to unfurl the flag. As I began twisting and lengthening the pole, a woman began to sing the Star Spangled Banner. With no other flag in sight, people shuffled around me to form a large circle and covered their hearts. O MY GOODNESS...Suddenly I became the flagpole to over 8000 people! So I slowly grabbed the lower ring of the flag, because I hadn't had time to connect it yet, and raised it as high as I could, the whole time feeling so humbled and honored to be holding the thing that all these people were saluting and had such respect for. This was really happening...I was about to live one of my dreams!
My friend had made his way up to his pace group and I to mine. As I was anxiously waiting there, one woman gave me a thumbs up and thanked me for carrying the flag. She told me that her best friend was still in Iraq. She continued explained to me what happens when a soldier in killed; the rest of the troops that are there, line both sides of a path to the plane where the casket is carried past his or her fellow soldiers and then is sent home to their family. Each of the members carry a flag forming a path lined with flags. Me carrying the flag, reminded her of that. She told me how that process helps them to remember that it wasn't just a soldier, but also a son, a daughter, a father, a mother...they are family. Tears of great gratitude filled both our eyes. I could feel the emotion she had on this topic. We hugged and wished each other luck. We were just minutes away from the start of the 35th annual Grandma's Marathon.
In decided what should I wear, I didn't want too much attention directed at me. It was all about the flag. So I opted for black & white. At first I wanted to have names of those who have served on my shirt, quickly realizing there are way too many of just people I know, and I was running for ALL who have served, both living and deceased. Then it came to me, "United We Stand". A statement so true. Strength in numbers, right? Now for the back of my shirt. I know that there are some in congress who wish to take God out of certain places or events...well it was my job to keep Him in this one. So, "One Nation Under God" seemed perfect.
Not listening to the weather forecasts, I packed as if it was going to be "nice". I was sorely mistaken. Thanks goodness for the running expo! I was able to purchase gloves, and arm covers there. It rained and rained and rained. Waking up the morning of to rain, of course, I did my normal stretching rituals, waking up my muscles, eating what little food my stomach would tolerate, and packed up my warm-up bag, which included the ever important flag. A friend, who would also be running, was doing the same. My husband drove us to the drop off, where it was still raining, and cold...still in the 40's. My friend and I were sporting the garbage bags, as were many of the runners, to keep us dry until we get to the start. Twenty-six miles actually seems longer when driven then when run, for some odd reason. It seemed like an eternity to get to the start, raining the whole way. By some miracle, as the buses arrived in Two Harbors at the start, the rain stopped...going against what had been predicted. Hmmmm...try and tell me God wasn't a part of that!
As we got off of the bus to join the other 8500 runners and even more spectators, the energy could easily be felt. Music playing, runners busily stretching, warming up, using the porta-potties, and getting to their places in line...no turning back now! Had my final source of energy, an orange, about 20 min before the race began. After doing more stretching, they announced that they were soon going to start. Time to unfurl the flag. As I began twisting and lengthening the pole, a woman began to sing the Star Spangled Banner. With no other flag in sight, people shuffled around me to form a large circle and covered their hearts. O MY GOODNESS...Suddenly I became the flagpole to over 8000 people! So I slowly grabbed the lower ring of the flag, because I hadn't had time to connect it yet, and raised it as high as I could, the whole time feeling so humbled and honored to be holding the thing that all these people were saluting and had such respect for. This was really happening...I was about to live one of my dreams!
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| My friend & I sporting the garbage bags |
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| The girl I met at the start who had served in Iraq |
Monday, August 15, 2011
Training time!
Training began in the middle of February. Living in Wisconsin, that means, unless you like subzero runs, it's a good time to get to know the treadmill. Starting those early morning runs, wasn't such a drudgery this time. It was as though I wasn't the only one in training. With the thought of hoisting our flag while running past so many people, I'd get goosebumps and have energy I couldn't explain. As I ran, I thought of all the men and women who have sacrificed so much for us, even their lives. I could almost hear them cheering. Again, more goosebumps... This made me all the more excited to run. As the days kept getting longer, and the temperatures would ever-so-gradually warm up, I was able to do more running outside. Though it took it a very long time to warm up! I can run in the rain, the snow, and the heat, but you can keep the cold! That is not for me. Unfortunately, it seemed every Saturday (long run day) it would be absolutely miserable: cold, rainy, windy, cloudy, and even sleet & snow would fall. I can think of one particular run, 17 miles I believe, that I almost didn't make it. I had 4 miles to go, and had to call for my husband to bring more clothing. I could feel my joints and muscles freezing up with every step. My stride had significantly diminished so much that I think the average person could have walked faster. I think I was even moaning with every step. I was so cold! My husband was by my side the rest of the way home. I couldn't have trained for that marathon without his support! ~ Another long run day was the day the world was supposed to end...remember that day? It was supposed to end with fire...well, God had different plans. It rained and rained and rained. I have never been so wet on land. It was a 12 mile run that day. I think it rained for at least 10 of those miles, pouring for at least an hour somewhere in the middle. Temps were not so bad, so I had fun with that run. When I returned home, I lowered my arms and water came streaming out of the sleeves of my rain jacket. ~ The last most memorable run, was a 21 mile run. (It was supposed to be 20 miles but I missed calculated) I had shed my $50 running pants and long sleeve Panther shirt (the school our kids go to) and placed them in a ditch under a "Neighborhood Crime Watch" sign, which was at a corner where the nearest house was a 1/2 mile away...pretty baron. That was about 3 miles from home. I continued my run, caught up with a friend who was training for her first 5K, then began my return route. When I got to where I had put the clothes...they were gone. Gone! I couldn't believe it. I was so mad, the last 3 miles went by pretty fast and pain free! ~ Through the 4 months of training, I have realized that anyone can run a marathon, it's the training for it that makes you think twice. I survived the crazy weather, I survived running 18 miles on a treadmill (not recommended!) I survived my minor injuries (with LOTS of physical therapy help) and I was rearing to go! My last thing I needed to do was to actually run with the flag. I had one week before the race. I had purchased a flag from Fleet Farm, American made, of course. The pole was a retractable aluminum pole that a Vietnam Vet had recommended for me to use. He uses it for the patriot guard. Two of my boys accompanied me on their bikes while I ran 3 miles with the flag. It was lighter, and more comfortable than I had thought it was going to be. Cars would pass a little slower, I'm sure wondering what the heck I was doing. Friends stopped me to ask what I was doing and wished me luck when I told them. On my return to home, a truck was coming up the hill. The driver, gave me a thumbs up, and blew his horn. I knew then, this is going to be a very exciting ride!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Making a Dream a Reality
I came home from that run that day I had first got the inspiration to carry the flag and had to do some research. I went straight to the computer and googled, "carrying the flag in a marathon". I didn't know if it had been done, if it could be done, or anything. The first two links that came up were about guys from MN who had carried the flag. One had done it, because he had served and had been injured, but had recovered and wanted to show his patriotism. The second guy, had a whole website with pictures, a blog, interviews, etc. He runs in memory of his best friend who had been killed while serving to protect what we hold so dear. I thought that was a pretty touching gesture. I did not find anywhere that any women had carried the flag in any race, let alone a marathon. Time went by. Christmas came. We began receiving letters like we always do that time of year. One in particular comes from my math teacher who I had in Northern MN about 25 years ago. In his letter, they tell of what each of their kids are doing, how most Christmas letters are. They said one of their sons now runs 4 - 1/2 marathons a year, carrying a flag, in memory of his friend who was killed in the war...wait a second...I went back to the website I had visited 4 months prior and discovered that that was him! What a small world! I tracked him down on facebook, and began asking all the questions I had about how to train to carry a flag in a marathon. He was so nice to answer all my crazy questions. Through our conversations via facebook, we discovered that we would both be running in Duluth. He would be running the 1/2 and I the full. What a deal! I don't really believe in coincidences. This was meant to happen. I think our message is an important one, and now we both are trying to spread it. Freedom is not free, and is something we all have, but only some have paid the price... which I am ever so grateful for.
Kurt's website is http://www.philcosfreedomteam.net/
Kurt's website is http://www.philcosfreedomteam.net/
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
A dream in the making...
Last year, while out for a 5 mile run, training for a half marathon, I had made my turn for home. There, waving so majestically with a beuatiful blue sky behind it, was Old Glory. Even though I had seen that same flag before, for some reason this time, it made me start thinking how grateful I was to be able to be out running on some country road, with no worries of being shot at or told I couldn't be where I was, doing what I was doing. I think alot during my runs, and this time was no different. There seemed to be alot of turmoil in our country at the time (still is) yet something inside me as an American did not want me to lose hope of the great country it started out to be. Sure there are problems, sure there are so many differences between the citizens who live here...but that's the glory of it. We are allowed to be different! We are allowed to voice our opinions! We are allowed to be FREE! Then it hit me. There are many things that make us different, but there is one thing that unites us as Americans, and that is what that flag represents...FREEDOM! I thought more of how it feels to be at some kind of event where the Star Spangled Banner is played, and how everyone joins together to remove their caps, to cover their hearts, or to sing. For that brief moment, everyone there is united. Then I thought, how can I help to unite my fellow Americans? What could I possibly do to make any kind of a difference? The answer was waving right in front of me. I need to run a marathon carrying a flag! That's it! It was as if a lightbulb had been lit. So, I ran home to begin my journey.
And that is how it all began...
And that is how it all began...
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