Five years ago when I created the Facebook Page, I made this my profile picture. It was taken by Bernie Eng during my very first Stupid Idea – the #RunToBayshore in 2016. Since that time I’ve set out on many more adventures, and posted all sorts of pictures, but through it all I’ve kept this one at the front. I wanted to share with those of you who may have started following since that time (Thank You!!! ❤) just why it’s so important to me.
That first year I made it 75 miles (a little more than halfway) in my effort to run from Midland to Traverse City for the Bayshore Marathon. This picture was taken as I walked the last few hundred yards before Bernie picked me up. So many thoughts were going through my head; I really thought I could do it. The next year I tried again and made it further, but ultimately failed a second time around 90 miles. It wasn’t until the third attempt that I finally made it to the goal, but I never forgot how I felt in this moment. I learned so much about myself those in first two attempts, and without them the feelings of actually accomplishing the goal just wouldn’t have been the same.
Wednesday I will set out on this journey for the 5th time. If all goes well I’ll reach Traverse City on Friday, and run the Bayshore Marathon Saturday morning. While I’ve done it successfully twice now, based on the weather forecast I’m honestly not sure what the outcome this time will be. This is Michigan, and there’s still time for the predictions to change, but for now it looks like cool temps and rain nearly the entire time. Lots of rain. Running without crew or support, it’s going to be a challenge. I’m extremely nervous, but I also know that the challenges are what make these journeys rewarding.
Let’s see what happens….. 🙂
tracking.mattsstupidideas.com
#RunToBayshore