I haven't run in days. Or trained anyway (a 5K in 38 minutes doesn't really count). I still feel a bit under the weather and I was overwhelmed with life. But it doesn't matter. I got my shot in the arm yesterday. Seriously. Girls on the Run is amazing.

The girls showed up - many of them a bit nervous - one even in tears (although she tried to hide it). After words of encouragement, lots of whooping and hollering, hugs where necessary, cheek tattoos, gauze (? they loved it!), we were ready to rock! And boy did we!

The parents were awesome, driving along the course, honking and screaming. Some of our habitual walkers were blazing the path!

The police department happily supplied a volunteer to direct traffic at our one big intersection and she had a pure GOTR attitude too. Awesome. Neighbors came out with water, hoses, smiles and cheers. The course was lined with signs and the girls took them all in.

They all finished strong and encouraged each other. And I kid you not, as the very last girl was coming in, I was pulling out her medal and another girl said, please, can I give it to her. Of course. As she put the medal around the girl's neck, she said "Congratulations M, you just won Girls on the run!" Indeed.

And today, I have received e-mails from parents saying how much the girls loved it and felt the true accomplishment. They were sad the season was ending so soon. That their girl how found "her niche." This is what it's all about.

On another note, my 3rd grade son REALLY wanted to do this. And an hour before the race he recruited a friend. So they ran and got into all of the prerace mix. This caused a lot of friendly competition, which was hilarious and greatly motivating for the girls.