team cnn!

well i made it. i didn't end up on the side of the road in the fetal position like i thought! it took me 2 hours and 45 minutes to finish but i did it! i placed 9,439th out of 15,000. i don't think that is half bad, i am pretty pleased with myself!

it was such an inspirational event to be a part of. the race is mainly for those training for the full marathon in october. but if people weren't running for training they were running for a cause. it was very cool to be running next to a cancer surviver and seeing all of the people cheering them on. speaking of causes, thank you to everyone who donated to the valerie fund/camp happy times. i believe we raised about $4,000. the kids will be so grateful!

it was also a great route to run. the first 7 miles were through central park. it was a bit hilly so that was a challenge, but it kept things interesting. i think everyone's favorite part of the race was running through times square. i was just about to hit a wall but then running into that exciting atmosphere gave you that extra kick to get going. there were so many fans along the sides cheering you on and motivating you. every now and then you i would here "lets go team cnn!" it brought a smile to my face everytime. the WORST part of the race, and i have many people supporting me on this, was the last 4 miles down the west side highway. there was no shade to the sun was beating down on you and it seemed like the mile markers were much further apart! megan and i ran most of the race together but the last mile i had to take a breather. as i was walking a nice man, frank from brooklyn, pumped me up to finish the race. he talked me all the way to the finish line!

all in all i am really happy i did it. not many people can say they ran a half marathon, besides the 15,000 that also ran it. they can count me in for next year.

i had my professional photographer there to take pictures at the finish line so i hope you enjoy

me and frank from brooklyn crossing the finish line together...



i spotted justin and kierstin in the crowd. i was so happy to see a familiar face!



me and kierstin...i am trying to convince her to run it next year with me! pam, would you be interested?!



part of team cnn. we got medals and everything. so cool. and don't you love our shirts!



an artsy shot but i like it...