City Traditions

Walking Mileage: 13.1

November Miles Walked: 53.79

Temperature upon departure: 64*

Humidity: 100% Pouring Rain the first 2 miles

I almost quit when it was raining, it was coming down so hard I couldn't see. I really wish I was the hat type. Thank God I had my contacts in and not my glasses on, I probably would have quit. But I kept going. I chased down those that I could.

The first four miles I was bored and walking slow and very, very wet. Miles 5-6 I got my legs under me and walked about a mile with an older gentleman. It was his 25th time in the Atlanta Half Marathon. Last year he went to the Senior Olympics, he said he's slower now that he is older but I was pleased with myself for keeping up with him. I lost him at mile 6, with his spirit under me I became a power walker. I had my arms a pumping and I lengthened my stride. I was truly thankful that my life is what it is. I missed the dogs as I walked but enjoyed that I knew every construction site I passed. I cried as I walked past the Macy's Christmas tree that will be lite on Friday night in an all out extravaganza. I am really proud of myself for making it two years in Atlanta on my own and really for having the courage to press on. I am truly on the path to finding myself, whatever that means.

Mile 10 was my fastest mile for as long as I can remember- 12 minutes! I was pleased, I was passing people that passed me the first few miles. I thought I'm going to beat my planned time of 3:30- then I hit the wall. My legs just slowed down, I felt like I was going to get sick. I was wobbly and felt almost disoriented. I wanted to sit down so bad, but decided I probably wouldn't be able to get up again if I did. So I struggled on, Mile 12 and I wanted to quit so bad, but could not bring myself to stop. I was on autopilot- a very slow autopilot!

Somehow I made it, everyone I worked to pass, passed me on that last mile. My hips hurt, my feet hurt, my legs were so done you could put a fork in them and have them for Thanksgiving dinner! I finished, smiling, and pleased after 3 hours and 38 minutes.