This morning my groin muscles are screaming at me. I was barely able to get down the stairs to wish Hubby a good day at work. If I didn't think he was going to laugh at me, I probably would have just waved him away and somehow directed Sugar the Boxer to walk herself. Then again, if I didn't force myself to move, my muscles probably would have locked up in place, so instead I balled up my complaints and swallowed them whole.
Because I am a finisher.
A proud finisher, actually.
The Army Ten Miler was a race I have wanted to do for a long time. While I'm not a Bucket List maker, I pined at the opportunity that I could show myself that I could finish 10 miles and run with my community of Army supporters.
But of course, life happened: moving, babies & the usual Army shenanigans.
This year was my chance. I trained with a great friend of mine, and in the process changed my idea of running.
I hated running while in the Army because of the pressure running symbolized, though I was a fair runner back then. But after I left the Army I avoided it except for weight loss, and in the last decade, I preached at how terrible I am at it, and how slow I am.
I suppose it's part of my self-depracating humor, but can I tell you all a secret?
I am actually really proud of myself.
Who knew I would become a reformed runner?
And who knew that I would finish with my personal record? (which may be slow to you all, but in my eyes, I was the wind incarnate)
I mean, I have always known that the concept of Army Strong is for the entire unit - the organization, the soldiers, the family. But, as a veteran-turned-spouse, sometimes I forget. My life in the last decade has been ArmyStrongSpouseFamilySupportUnit. Out of necessity.
Hubby for a week had been deflecting my race neurosis; on Sunday he cheered for me from the sidelines, and then greeted me with a hug and an "I'm so proud of you" after I crossed the finish line. He knew I would do well all the while, although I didn't want to believe him.
On Sunday, Army Strong was me. Me the former Army Nurse, me the Army Spouse Extraordinaire, me the Mom of Century, me the Writer of the Next Bestseller, me the Crafter of all of this year's Christmas Gifts.(excuse my shameful endorphins)
Now if I can only stand from this chair...
Have a great Tuesday! I hope your weekend went well!
