It takes a village (a race report, a new job, and humility)

On Sunday, Scott and I ran the Mad Marathon up in Waitsfield, VT.  Since we were using it as a training run, there was no pressure for time or a particular performance.  That’s what it said on paper anyway.  As Scott and I left the Start Line behind us, we found nothing but hills – BIG HILLS – as we covered the 26.2 miles of beautiful VT.  I quickly watched my pace move from 8’s to 9’s and then from 10’s to 11’s…..  All that great stuff on paper?  Right, it got in my head.  The course was hard and the weather was warm and humid.  

"Live" elevation chart!  Legit hills!!!!

If you watched the great photo/video montage that Scott put together, you probably noticed nothing but smiles from me.  Lots of the time, I was indeed smiling.  

But there were some pretty lousy moments as well.  Here’s where Scott came in.  He laughed, he joked, he goofed around and he fed me ice.  He reminded me several times that the goal of that day was to use the race as a training run.  I think we’ve all been there, where we just can’t get out of our heads or out of a particular mood.  It took awhile, but it finally happened.  Between Scott’s constant efforts and other runners’ encouragement, I finally found my mojo a little over half way through the race.

Around mile 20, a big piece of humble pie was delivered to me by another runner.  During one of the out-and-backs where we were heading towards each other, she crossed the road, gave me a high five, and happily encouraged me, “You’ve got this sister!  And I’ve got only 3 chemos left!”.  Wow.  Just wow.  I can’t articulate the effect that had on me. 

Scott and I finished with smiles at 4:28:50/51, hugged, collected our medals, and went off to have our 2nd free beer –

Longtrail beer at mile 23....CHEERS!

I’ve also been busily interviewing for a new role at my company and happily accepted the offer when it came my way recently!  I’m joining a new group and taking on more responsibilities and couldn’t be more excited!  It felt “time” to make this kind of change.  And I’m thrilled to be able to do it at my company and not have to leave for a new opportunity.  Again, Scott helped me talk through the pros and cons, reminded me to remove the rose colored glasses and really weigh my decision carefully. 

Whether a marathon or a new job, it's not my accomplishment to celebrate alone.  Many long runs have included Scott or friends and have helped me get stronger/faster or just have a more fun run.  I may put in those miles and finish my races with my legs, but so much of what I accomplish is because I have such tremendous support from Scott and my friends and family.  The same with my new job….I did all the work during the interview process and ultimately, its mine to now go perform (eeek!), but having Scott and others close to me to talk it through with and force me to think hard about my choice contributes to my success.  I'm excited about this new opportunity!!

It really does take a village and I’m so fortunate to have a village and so happy that I recognize the strength “my village” gives me every day.