Diving Into Blue

I remember running along the boardwalk--by the coastal village of Disney's Yacht and Beach Club. What impressed me the most was the people lined up, cheering us on! They clapped, cheered, and held out their hands to give us five. And I thanked them! I noticed that some of these folks were half marathon finishers because they proudly wore their medals. What a boost that was! To think that they cared enough to hang out along the last few miles to cheer us in!

I past Mile 25 just after entering into Epcot once again. It was kind of weird. I'd been along this same route hours before in the dark, between miles two and three. But it was different somehow. Of course, the sun was up, and there were people that had paid an admission to get into the park who didn't really understand what we were doing there.

I looked across the lake at the Epcot ball that I knew was at the front of the park. I started getting choked up. I think I finally realized that I was really close to finishing the marathon. But I had to get past that because I didn't want to slow down now. I was on a mission, remember? You've got to finish under six hours!

And when I got to the Epcot ball, I had someone take my picture! It was a milestone I needed to remember. Thanks to all those volunteers along the route who took my picture without hesitation. These pictures bring back sweet memories of my first marathon!

Mile 26 was real close. I could feel it.