I did it: Maggie's Race 2013

9 hours before the race...

The night before the big race,
I honestly felt so much pain in my left foot that I thought I'd have to pull out of my first 5k...but I knew deep down it was an attack on what I was wanting to accomplish.

10 minutes before...

I got ready to go. I couldn't even jog to warm up ten minutes before-hand. As I walked to the starting line, I felt that I would end up walking it. Honestly.

One minute before the "go" ...

I put in my iPod music, had to the left Bryan, a great supporter, ready to run beside me...and then heard the Jason Upton song, "Fly." It reminded me that God is taking me to new places...new adventures...new opportunities to trust him above my feelings, how I feel, and what I think. His ways are truly higher than mine. I was ready to fly...

One mile complete...

Then, I started to praise Him -- He is faithful. He is with me. He truly loved me. Feeling strong.

Two mile marker...

I hear God tell me "I am proud of you- whether you finish first or last, I am with You and I am proud of you." Pushing, pushing, pushing...now it has sinked in.

Push to the finish...

By now, I am thinking about this past month. You may have noticed a lack of posts since my trip to Ohio. I needed a break from social media to focus on one thing: Christ. So many trials have been stabbing at me, and I wondered why...but God already said I'd go through that as a believer in Christ. My job is to trust and believe His word above my circumstances.

Finish line...

I ran across. I smiled. My parents came out to support, and I couldn't have been more blessed than to have them join in this accomplishment. Moreso, we have a loving God cheering us on. He is always with you, no matter how far you run...He sees you and cares for you. Remember that.

What's next?

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Period.

Until next time, be thankful.

❤Christie

(Pictures: collage of event and final running results)