more mini pics

2:48:32

Well, I did it.

Ran 13.1 miles.

RAN it.

I never would have thought that was possible...even after training, I wasn't fully prepared. I let my training program slide toward the end, and the furthest I had run was 8 miles going into the Mini Marathon.

But I did it.

And I am SO proud of myself for setting the challenge, mental and physical, and doing what I thought was impossible.

Sets a pretty great example for these little cheerleaders, don't you think?

The kids and I went to my sister's the night before the race and spent the night. Linds got up bright and early to drop me off near the start line, then went home to awaken the cheering squad and make some kick ass signs.

It was such an incredible experience. The people, the music, the scenery...
The best part was coming toward the Speedway and seeing my family cheering me on.
I stopped, gave the kids kisses ... after I kissed Kaden he gave me a little shove. "Go on, Mommy, get back out there!!" How's that for motivation?!


And I finished! With only one functioning ear bud, I finished.

My "goal" was 1. to simply finish, 2. to come in under 3 hours, 3. to hopefully hit 2:45:00.

So I'm awful proud of 2:48:32.

I couldn't walk right for the next two days, but it was so worth it. I'm already looking for the next 1/2 marathon to keep up my motivation. Thank you so much to my dear friends and family that supported me through this and had confidence in me even when I didn't.

I love you all!!

ebertfest

Lindsay was attending the 2011 Ebert Film Festival for work, and I was lucky enough to tag along! We had a great time, 5 days and 4 nights in Champaign-Urbana, IL. 13 films in 5 days.

Saw some truly incredible films ... my personal favorites were Natural Selection, Tiny Furniture, Life, Above All, A Small Act, and Louder Than A Bomb.

Spent some time shopping at an amazing book store, an equally cool vintage store, some great restaurants, and the local park.

video over load

Time to play catch up on the blog, so fasten your seat belts and get ready for video overload.

This is from Leah's Talent Show on April 14th. I was so surprised when she said she wanted to try out ... and so proud of her. She's got some mad jump roping skills, even with an unlaced shoe!

And this is K-Man, practicing his reading skills. He's SO ready for Kindergarten!

And here are a couple of videos from a trial karate class the kids went to with our favorite little man, Cole Teany.