I enjoyed running the Turkey Trot 5k race in North Reading, Massachusetts. I love turkey trots because they are low-key and fun. Now its time to enjoy yummy turkey, mashed potatoes, apple pie, corn, green bean stuffing, etc.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

…………………….

Thank You, New York!

The marathon was a great experience. I wanted to do this race for years, and it did not disappoint.

Thank You, Ed, for keeping me company this weekend. I appreciate it. Carrie, John, Izzy, and Bobby, I am glad I can count on you all to take care of the dogs and the family business while we are away.

Thanks to all who donated to Familial Dysautonomia (FD).

Saturday morning, my husband and I flew to
New York. The flight was quick and easy.
After our flight, we took Carey Ride Limo Service to our hotel, checked in, and then went to the running expo to pick up my running bib and browse the exhibits.

Later that night, we had a delicious Italian meal at Il Mulino. As always, the food was delicious. It has been my go-to restaurant before a big race.

Then it was time for bed.

Race Day!
The race itself had the best crowd support I have ever experienced.
There are so many people out on the course encouraging you.
The weather this year was perfect. It was a warm 64 degrees, and that is what I prefer. I am not a cold-weather runner, and I like to inhale warm air, which is better for my allergies and asthma.

For the first 16 miles, I felt great.

I used the Jeff Galloway run/walk method.
I walked through every water station and took walking breaks throughout the miles. The run-walk intervals kept me comfortable without being miserable. Nothing new on race day.
Being surrounded by other runners who were my ability, I never felt alone on the course.
The runners near me were my cheerleaders.

I hit the half-marathon mark around 3:20:18 and I was thrilled.

Around mile 17, I started to slow down.
I had nine more miles to go. I just kept moving along, staying focused and enjoying myself.
As I followed The Galloway plan, I was leapfrogging with runners…
I’d pass them, and they’d pass me.
The last 5 miles are always the toughest mentally because I am close to being done.
I decided to enjoy the race; I high-fived volunteers, thanked the folks at the water stations, talked to fellow runners, and waved to the fans, EMTS, Police departments, and fire departments along the course.
Soon, I reached the finished line and crossed it.
It was the best feeling in the world.
I completed my first New York Marathon. 6:59:12