This past weekend was a pretty special one. I took part in my first 5k race and had my son’s graduation/going away party.
Of course I have to show you the outfit I wore to the party.
I wore a Nine West top that I thrifted NWT for $4.50 (original price $74.) I paired with my royal blue Cato shorts and flips flops. I like the stripes in the top and I’m sure I’m going to get a lot wear with it, plus it’s a little patriotic and fitting for the party.
For those who don’t know my son enlisted in the U.S. Marine’s and on Sunday he will spend the night in St. Louis and on Monday he leaves for boot camp at Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Since I began walking and then running several months ago one of the things I decided I wanted to do was take part in a 5k with Cole before he left. He ran cross country and track so the 3.1 miles is not a big deal to him, but it was too me.
We took part in the St. Louis Police Athletic League 5k Hero’s Run at Forest Park. All I can say is felt fantastic crossing the finish line. Cole actually finished the race way ahead of me and came back to finish out the run with me.
As he approached I asked how he did and he said “I won!” I nearly started to cry. He was the first person to cross the finish line and the overall (male) winner of the race. I couldn’t be more proud.
He finished the race in 19:30 and I ran it in 43:40. My time may not be great, but I did it and for me and I feel wonderful in accomplishing it because I only started running again in March. I began walking at the end of January. I did a combination for the race and as time goes on I plan to run more because I want to run another with Cole when he comes home on leave. I know he’s proud of me for doing it and I am too.
There is nothing more regal than running with your child and knowing that he’s just as proud of you as you are of him.
After the race we then headed to my parents farm where we had his graduation/going away party. I think everyone who came had a great time and the best part of my night was when he stood in the kitchen and hugged me then told me “Mom the next time you see me I won’t be this kid anymore. I’ll be all grown up. I want you to know that I’ll always need you and I love you.”
Congrats Cynthia! Are you addicting to running yet or what?
Cynthia,
this post made me cry just a little. How wonderful that he won and that you ran the race with him. My son Torrey is in the Marine Corps, tomorrow will be one year, on June 20th. I am very proud of him, he is now stationed in Japan, I am very grateful for chat and skype. I will keep you and Cole in thought and prayers.
Carol Saxton
Thanks Carol. I remember Torrey from Marching 100. I’m glad to know he’s doing well.