. . . it's a marathon. And it's the waiting that's the hardest part (I think it was Tom Petty who said that). Walt, Putty and Nana decided to support Daddy for my fourth attempt at the 26.2 mile distance this past weekend. Unfortunately, there is a lot of waiting involved for the marathon spectator. Here is Walt at Mile 12:
Here is a photo of Daddy just after Mile 17. That explains the irritable and pained look on my face as I attempt to get a 'high five' from Walty. Walt would have none of it.
On the other hand, he was very excited about the police horse on the pedestrian bridge on the way to the marathon finish. This officer went above and beyond to pose with Walt for this photo:
And finally, after almost four hours (My official time was 3:53:25) I made it back to Downtown Nashville. I'll be glad to explain 'net time' vs. 'gun time'. Just ask.
Here is Walt finally greeting Daddy many minutes and four bottles of water after the finish:
I could go on. The marathon is such a defining moment. I'll try not to turn this into a Daddy/marathon love fest, but I can't help but tell you that, physically, I poured everything I had into this race, and I achieved my goal of a personal best (3:53). I just want to thank Walt and Ginger for all of the sacrifices they've made over the past six months. They've put up with a lot.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog . . . about Walt . . .
Josh, I'm so impressed and proud of you. Of course, I'm the aunt who can't walk in the back yard without falling and breaking her ankle so running anywhere is impressive to me. I just have to thank you for coming to Nashville for the marathon because it gave me a chance to see Walt, and I enjoyed that immensely. He is just precious and one of the best-behaved two-year-olds I have ever seen. Sorry I didn't get to see you, Ginger. I hope you enjoyed your weekend. I love you all. Aunt Brenda
ReplyDeleteIf only Walt's Putty could be as well behaved as Walt. It's pretty bad when Walt has to tell Putty, "That's 'bad behabur', Putty!" What a precious blessing you are to us. We love you!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ginger, for sharing them with us. We missed you!
Wow, Josh. I just consider watching the guys run on the tredmill excercise! Maybe one day you can run the Rotterdam or Amsterdam marathon. They look longer because it is 42 kilometers.
ReplyDeleteYes, I will walk out to my car right now and get the bubblewrap to send you the doggy beer.
Can Walt say "marathon" yet? I never cease to be amazed that you can actually run 26.2 miles---in one day! I could probably do it but it would take me a month!
ReplyDeleteWalt, how did you like your first horsie ride? Take it from Gram...it's really fun!
We can't wait to see you next week!
I know that waiting game as Petrea and I have spent many an early morning cheering Chris on along the route of a marathon or triathlon, but I can tell you the pride we feel too watching him. I know Ginger and Walt felt that for you. Congrats on the personal best man!
ReplyDeleteI remember when you ran the Harbortown 5k with Chris about 4 years ago and I thought it would be the end of your friendship. You've come a long way, baby, and it's really impressive. Good job getting under 4...
ReplyDeleteMarathon, schmarathon. Yeah, OK, I'll say it: I'm imPRESSED! So there!...even though I still don't get people wanting to punish themselves this much. It just doesn't make sense to me. 3:53, though? That's gettin' it!
ReplyDeleteBut, what really impresses me is Walty! I've already told you how much this past weekend meant to me and the rest of my family, so enough of the schmoozing. Flat out, I wish y'all would move up here. Thanks for making memories and Thank You!, God, for giving all of us this precious little boy.
Love y'all!
Uncle B
Ok, I know it is Walt's webiste and we all KNOW how precious he is but, Josh, you are my inspiration. What an accomplishment and not just once but 4 times. What discipline and commitment!! Way to go!!!!
ReplyDeleteBro - you looked good at mile 17; no chunks of white spittle caked in both corners of your mouth. That's class.
ReplyDelete