The Run

A couple of weeks ago, Rachele participated in a half marathon in Central Park hosted by Kristin Davis and More Magazine. We were on our way to the city at 7 am, picked up Kristin, and preceeded to Central Park where Rachele gave us pretty explicit directions on where to watch so we could see her loop twice. I have to say, I was filled with anticipation; it's not like Rachele is really a runner or anything. However, in typical Rachele-style she followed the training plan to a T since February. No doubt, she was ready - I wasn't sure that I was. It was about 50degrees and raining. Not just misting, raining. I was worried and could not wait to see her come around.

Here she comes!!! I think Kristin spotted her first. She looked great, confident, breathing without effort - like a real runner! She saw us and waved, smiling. I knew she was okay. I felt better, however, she still had plenty to go to make it to the 13.1 mile finish.

I have to say, watching a run is really emotional. Not only because my daughter was in it; no, it's more than that. Watching all these women, all different ages, varying sizes, some in great shape; some not so much. But it didn't matter - they were all running together, soaking wet, some so out of breath they were reduced to walking. Again, doesn't matter. Collectively they were running to stay healthy, to become fit - stronger, to reach a personal goal. Some ran with friends, some solo. Family and friends lined the sides of the run, cheering, clapping, showing support for these women, colorful umbrellas dotting Central Park, rivaling the beach umbrellas that turn the shore into a kaleidoscope in the summer.

Rachele came around again. Looking just slightly more tired than last time, but still running at quite a pace. Wow, the pride just swelled up inside me. I know how hard this run is for her, and yet here she is, doing it and doing it well. Before long she crossed the finish line. This we didn't see, but within minutes, she was running towards us with a big medal around her neck. Talk about the lump in my throat as I hugged this daughter of mine. A personal goal realized for her, and we got to see it. Her time was awesome; not only did she finish, she did it in 2 hours and a few seconds! Not only were Sal and Kristin and I there; some of her friends came out to watch her, waking up super early on Sunday when it was a perfect day to sleep in. (Thanks Kelly, Liz and Soph!) We drove the girls back to Rachele's apartment, she squeezed in the front with me. She was soaked to the bone and felt clammy to the touch. I tried to hug her warm, but I think she just needed a nice hot shower and a change of clothes.

We dropped them off, they were going to brunch to celebrate. I couldn't stop thinking about this run for days. Just when you think you really know your daughter, she just may surprise you.