Back in February, Andy challenged his dad and me to run a half marathon this summer (the plan was for us to run the half and Andy to run the full). We all started our training that weekend, and kept at it for the full 4 1/2 months. I am always amazed at how your body quickly your body adjusts as you stretch and push yourself! I would have never thought that I could run 13.1 miles without stopping, but it felt great!
A couple months out from the race, Andy's sister Natalie decided to join in on the excitement...and the Stockhoff team turned from three to four of us. With Nana, Noah and Clare there to cheer us on, it really turned out to be a great day!
Here are Natalie, Gary and I all crossing the finish line! What a great feeling it was to be done :) Andy ran the full marathon but suffered a repeat injury on his left foot. He did GREAT and made it to mile 17! We are already planning to do a half marathon in the future together!
If it weren't for Andy I don't think any of us would have taken on this challenge. I am so grateful that he encouraged me (and his dad) to reach this goal!
Nana was kind enough to bring the kids to greet us at the finish line...but I have to say that Noah's very favorite part was definitely the cow train. Nana took one for the team again by riding in it with him...
After the race, we all went home, cleaned up and relaxed a little. Stacie and I got dinner going, because it isn't the 4th without a BBQ! After our BBQ (which was delicious), we shot off some fireworks (in the daylight). Call me scrooge, but I wasn't going to let my kids stay up past dark to set them off!
Noah loved every minute (and may have almost caught himself on fire with the sparkler a few times) haha.
Those shoes, Natalie! I don't even know what to say.
Nana relaxing a little.
Andy helping Noah water the plants....
Overall it was a beautiful day, and the perfect way to spend one of my favorite holidays! I hope you all had a wonderful 4th as well!
PS. I know we don't have many pictures of Clare, she was sleeping during the time most of these pictures were taken...I did snap one of her though...the little cutie!
