Marathon and Pushing Through

Guess who survived the marathon! Me. (Kind of, barely.) Thanks for all of your supportive comments beforehand!

The before pictures:

The during pictures:

Not smiling quite as much in the during pictures.

It was really intense. I felt great the first 13 miles, and it was kind of downhill from there. Mark was very supportive and kept me going a few times, my favorite part being singing Bon Jovi to distract ourselves around mile 18. However, by the end I was really dragging. As soon as we crossed the finish line (6 hours later!) and downed a bottle of Gatorade, I magically had energy again. Lesson learned: Eat more when running for hours and hours, even if you don't like gel.

Things were so good with Mark that weekend that we got back together for a few weeks until it became unmistakably apparent that we do not value the same thing in a relationship. What can I say-- Love is exceedingly optimistic.  

On the upside, I am now far more confident in interpreting and trusting my feelings. I know how I feel when someone loves me for me (like in the beginning) and I know how good it feels to care about someone, talk through things because I care (even if I prefer to avoid hard discussions), and make plans together. I also know one person can't make the relationship work. When it's healthy and right, it's going to be great.

So where am I now? Back in Rhode Island. I started a painting that I've been wanting to do, bought the materials to make this cute bag, and am arranging regular volunteering. Tune in next time for pictures from my much-needed vacation to Arizona and Chicago. :)