Slightly Devastated

I had talked a few of my running peeps into running the Chicago Marathon in 2012.  I had dinner with my good friends, we call ourselves the Amber group (long story behind that), and at least three of us were in. 

I mean, I LOVE Chicago.  The race is in October, plenty of time to ramp back up in mileage.  It is in the fall, and we all know Savannah was the best race I have ever had, so I figured let's have the best marathon ever.  It is flat.  My dad and Gary live there, all I had to pay was the travel up there.  And I had friends who were in for it. 

I had thoughts of training with the Amber girls, I was super excited about being able to run with friends, and I just visualized a fabulous race. 

The race opened Feb 1.  My friend, Lauren, had made sure I knew the date.  I was ready.  I was going to sign up. Then the registration fee....$150.  That is a hefty price for a marathon, and a really hefty price for someone who has supporting her, and her family for they past 7 months on a teacher's salary.  I kept thinking....the army will pay....they will pay....they will pay. 

Feb. 1 came, and the Army hadn't paid.  Jacob and I have had to give up a lot while trying to make ends meet.  One of the things I gave up was not to sign up for any more races until the money hit the bank. 

Beth let me know Tuesday, the 6th, that Chicago had sold out.  I held it together in person, but when I got on the car after my run I broke down.  Beth and Lauren have a number.  I do not.  Come to find out other Get Fit Atlanta people had also signed up.  There are quite a few people going to this race, that I had dreamed of. 

I am trying to understand everything happens for a reason.  But it will be very had to have all my friends go to the race I am pinning after, and me be left behind.  I guess I will plan on going to cheer, and hold back my tears on actual race day. 

There is a light somewhere out there, I just haven't been able to see it for a couple of days.