Marathon number three — done and dusted.

This one felt different. Maybe it’s because I trained harder than ever, or maybe it’s because I ran it alongside my friend, which made every mile mean more. Either way, I went into this race already proud of how much work I’d put in.

It was supposed to be a hot one — the kind of marathon where you brace yourself for sunburn and dehydration — but halfway through, the skies opened up. The rain came pouring down, cool and refreshing, washing over the heat and exhaustion. It was honestly the best surprise.

And the atmosphere? Unreal. There’s just something about marathon day — the energy, the strangers cheering like they’ve known you forever, the hilarious signs that make you laugh mid-stride. But what made this one extra special was that the Minnesota Vikings were playing at the same time. Everywhere you looked, there were fans in purple and gold — runners, spectators, even dogs in jerseys. We ran past houses with TVs pulled out onto lawns, people shouting score updates, and signs flashing the latest play. We passed at least fifteen live bands, and the music, the cheering, the energy — it made every mile feel electric. It’s one of those memories that will stick with me forever.

I didn’t hit my goal time, but I’m okay with that. Twenty-six point two miles will always be an accomplishment. My friend ended up getting sick, and watching her push through the entire race was its own kind of inspiration. The marathon became a test of strength for both of us, just in different ways.

Taking Monday off work was the best decision ever. I slept from 8 PM to 9:30 AM, only waking up to gulp down half a gallon of water at a time before falling back asleep. At one point, around midnight, I migrated from the couch to the bed and called it a victory.

When I finally got up, I was sore and mentally foggy, but I gave myself the recovery day I deserved — a sauna and cold plunge (just my legs), therapy, grocery shopping, a dog food restock, and an acne lift peel that was so relaxing. It was one of those quietly perfect days where everything slows down and your body just says “thank you.”

Oh, and because life loves a plot twist, I forgot my swimsuit for the sauna. So yes, I went in my underwear — which just happened to be white. I had to strategically wrap myself in a towel like a human burrito, but you know what? Still counting it as a win. 😂

Now it’s Tuesday, I’m back to work, still a little sore but feeling good. The kind of good that comes from knowing you showed up for yourself — in the training, the race, and the recovery.

I’m planning to keep my mileage low for a bit, then shift my focus to speed before rebuilding endurance again. Because running isn’t just about the times or the distance — it’s about learning when to push and when to rest.

Here’s to running smarter, stronger, and with a little more gratitude for every step — rain, blisters, Vikings fans, and all. 💪