Go, Amy, Go!

My sister, Amy, and I are only 18 months apart. By growing up that close in age (and only one grade apart), it's impossible to have memories that do not involve her. She could always easily embarrass me (for example, she insisted on standing on the front porch as I was getting onto the bus to go to kindergarten, saying, "Bye, Mawena" ). As often as she embarrassed me, she always managed to be the first to cheer me on (it was just the two of us sitting on my bedroom floor when I opened my college acceptance letter - she was just as thrilled as I was, if not more). I believe sisters have such a unique relationship and bond, one that is continually strengthened as time moves on. There are definitely times when we don't see eye to eye, but when it comes down to it, I can't imagine what my life would have been like without her (well, obviously, a lot less humiliating).

Last Saturday, our bond was strengthened as we ran a 5K together. It was her first.

Amy may not always go about things in the way that I would (for example, she stopped training 5 weeks prior to the race), but when she says that she's going to do something, she does it. So, I knew, that regardless of her comfort level, she was going to complete the race. She has a level of determination and will that I don't quite think she realizes. It was so inspiring to see her overcome her initial reluctance and run.

It was a perfect first 5K (Lawrence Foxtrot). The course was flat, the number of runners were small, the weather was gorgeous, and she had two people cheering from the sidelines - Adam and Arianna.



The night before, we spent some time talking and I shared my tidbits of running advice (1) go slow - time doesn't matter but finishing does, (2) take it all in - listen and watch everything around you, and (3) focus on breathing - it impacts the run.

As we ran, I loved every second of it. I loved being 31 years old and experiencing something with Amy for the first time. I loved being back in the rhythm of a run and having her by my side. I loved that Arianna got to see her mom accomplish something for the first time. Most importantly, I loved being the one who cheered her on.



Amy, I am so incredibly proud of you. You set a goal and accomplished it. You kept going, even when you wanted to stop. I can't wait to run next to you on your next 5K (I know you'll do another one, it's addicting and you need to know how it feels when you've trained properly). Thanks for such a phenomenal experience. It's one that I won't ever forget.