Army 10 Miler Race Recap -- I survived!

Now that I'm back home and have access to the interwebz, I wanted to recap the run on Sunday and share a few photos! :)

First and foremost, I survived. I did much better than I expected considering training [or lack thereof!] and craptastic runs in the weeks prior. I had a fabulous time with the girls on the course as well. 

As I mentioned last week, I had a sneaking suspicion that this year was going to feel a hell of a lot different than the race last year. I managed to not cry during the race, but I did get a bit misty during the National Anthem and at the end of the race. 

pit stop for photos at Mile 5

and again at Mile 7

One thing that I brought along this year that I hadn't last year was something quite special. Before I packed up for DC, I grabbed the 10th Mountain Division patch that my husband wore during last year's deployment. I wanted to carry it with me as a reminder of what my husband [and I!] went through last year. 

with my finisher coin and both patches

In keeping with that, I brought a second 10th Mountain patch with me. This second patch went with me on the race as well [both were safely tucked into my sports bra -- thank goodness they didn't chafe me!] and had a different destination. After the race, the girls and I headed to Arlington National Cemetery and when I went to visit my husband's soldier that is buried there, I left the patch with him. Carrying it with me was a constant reminder of the sacrifice so many have made.

At the finish, I pulled both patches out and held it proudly as I crossed the finish line. 

me and Jules

still smiling

I think I'm going to order these :) And for our post-race photo shoot?

10 Miles baby!

Army 10 Miler, I'll see you again next year.