Yesterday the Boston Marathon posted this picture on Facebook and the reality of it has still not sunk in just yet.

In just 4 short days I will be crossing the starting line in Hopkinton and working my way 26.2 miles until I reach the finish line on Boylston St. in Boston.

It’s been a long road to Boston and it is something that I could have NEVER have done on my own. 
I know that when I am at the starting line Monday morning I will be thinking of the people who have helped me get there.  I am thankful for parents who encouraged me to work hard in high school when I found a sport I could do well in.  I am thankful for a tough coach in college who I know I did not appreciate enough at the time.  I am thankful for my husband and the 4 amazing babies God gave us. 

I know I have worked hard and put in a lot of time and energy to run this race (as well as countless others) but my husband has worked just as hard to help get me there.  It’s not easy training with little ones and J has helped make this dream a reality.  He has made many sacrifices for me and works hard so I can stay home with our little ones.  I really don’t talk about him enough but I honestly know I would not be doing any of this without his constant support.  He is my biggest encourager, cheerleader, coach and best friend.  He always believe in me- even when I don’t believe in myself.

Love you J!

John will not be with me in Boston this weekend.  It was a hard decision for us to make but he will be home holding down the fort.  He is currently working on his PhD and between that, his job and the kids he needed to be here.   One of my training buddies also qualified so we will be going together.  My parents and sister who live in the northeast are also planning on meeting me there so I will have some family support there.

I know John will be tracking me online every step of the way and I will be thinking of him and the kids as I press on towards the finish.

I also wanted to thank so many friends here and around the country who have encouraged me along the way.  I will be thinking of you all when I get to the starting line Monday morning.  Thank you, thank you for your love and support!! 

~Tia