This is the half marathon that taught me about limitations. I was fresh off my full marathon finish from 7 days prior (you read that right and can probably predict where this is going) and thought to myself: Self, you can do anything. So go ahead and knock out the Route 66 in Tulsa. With the famed “gently rolling hills” and you will get a sweet jacket and check Oklahoma off the list.

I felt injured after the marathon but thought it was probably typical post marathon pain. I had never done one before so figured it was normal to be walking like the Hunchback of Notre Dame. I was sore and dealing with knee and hip pain. But I channeled my inner Mike Gundy. I’m 34, I’m a woman! I didn’t think I would PR or anything but thought I would do okay.

Whelp, I was wrong. Ran about a mile before stumbling to a limping walk. Limping. At mile 2. At first I thought I was hitting “the wall” a smidge early. Thought it was a mental thing. You know that moment when you are wearing Nike’s and just can’t do it? (Neither do I, I was wearing some Saucony footwear that day).

But I’m not a quitter, damnit. So I decided I would walk my ass to that finish line if it killed me. And it was cold and I was feeling sorry for myself and then I saw it (not a Sonic….but second best, a Starbucks!) So I crossed traffic and ran (I’m using that word liberally at this point) in. Luckily I’ve got the app on my phone so could get myself a delicious chai tea latte. You should have seen the looks I got. I was in full running gear, with a number on my chest, stopping for a bathroom break at Starbucks (WAY better than a port o potty) and a tasty, hot beverage.

That was around mile 8. I sipped on that drink for the next 5 miles. Also, full disclosure, drank some Fireball from some random person’s “water” bottle. Turns out the party is at the back of the pack.

I did meet some cool people who were helping a veteran carry his gear and flag. He was struggling and they were offering snacks, Advil, hydration, etc. People are awesome.

And that’s what I love about races. You never know who you will meet or what their story will be. Towards the end I walked ahead and saw a lady crying quietly. Her dad was just admitted to rehab the day before and she was doing the race to feel like you could overcome anything if you put your mind to it. I stayed with her until the finish line and we crossed together. I learned it’s not all about your time, it’s about the journey and those you meet along the way. Some you help, and some help you, and I love being a part of this running community.

Also. Sometimes you need Starbucks and Fireball instead of Water and Gatorade.