Utah Valley Half Marathon

FLAT JENNY DID IT!!! She finished the Utah Valley Half Marathon and it was AWESOME!!! It was an absolutely BEAUTIFUL and PERFECT day for a race! Standing at the starting line was a time of excitement and anticipation. Flat Jenny knew she was ready and that she was going to come out flying!

The run down Provo Canyon was spectacular and every step of the way Flat Jenny felt happy, strong, and confident! She started with a comfortable pace and stayed steady all the way.

There were so many people cheering and supporting all the racers. Flat Jenny was so grateful for the love and support she felt from people. Even complete strangers cheered her on and lifted her spirits. It made Meggen and Flat Jenny think about something Sister Ardeth G. Kapp, former YW General President said, "The heavenly grandstands are cheering!" For, not only could Meggen and Flat Jenny hear and feel the cheers and love of the crowd along the race course, but they could also feel and hear (with their spiritual senses) the cheers and love of so many angelic, heavenly supporters in heavenly grandstands! It was incredible!

There were some funny sights along the way that made Flat Jenny chuckle. George Clooney stopped by the aid station at mile 10 to give Flat Jenny a high 5 and wish her well. Although it meant adding a little time to her race, she was not shy about asking for a photograph! ;o) Now Flat Jenny is famous!

Flat Jenny crossed the finish line after having run at an easy 2 hours 11 minute pace! She felt strong and happy the entire way and knew that she had accomplished something great! She made lots of friends along the way and felt grateful for all the love and support she has felt over the last 4 months of training.

Flat Jenny is proud to show off her finisher's medal! What a great day!!! More races lie ahead, but for now she is happy to bask in the glow of a job well done!

This race was easy compared to what our real friend Jenny is going through. But, Jenny, if there is anything Flat Jenny and I have learned through this it is that when it seems you can't go one more step, somewhere deep inside you will find that you can. For, you are not left to do it on your own. Just as Meggen carried Flat Jenny every step of the way on this journey, so Someone WILL carry and IS carrying YOU every step of the way.

And Jenny, like your alter-ego Flat Jenny, YOU are a FINISHER and a FIGHTER! Don't give up, friend! You are not alone!

Opposition Will NOT Conquer Flat Jenny!

This morning Flat Jenny, Meggen, and Mack went out for a run on the Jordan River Trail. They were planning on going 5 miles and had the course all mapped out in their minds before they began. However, less than 1/4 of a mile into the run they discovered that the tunnel under Lehi Main Street had flooded making it completely impassable! The water was at least 10 feet deep! Of course, they could have gone for a swim, but none of them were feeling that adventurous today.

So, they turned around and decided to go North instead. After 2 miles, they discovered a chain link fence and this sign covering the path . . .

It seems that fate was against them today, trying to break their will and their determination. However, as is the case with Flat Jenny, she knew they could make the best of the situation, be successful, and find enjoyment---come what may. She suggested they just make a loop instead of a straight out run. They could still get their miles in and could salvage the day. So, that's exactly what they did!

Here is one of Flat Jenny's favorite places on the trail---the top of a hill that feels like you are on top of the world! She loves the great views of the mountains and valley all around.

Flat Jenny also really enjoyed seeing how full the Jordan River is right now. With all the rain and heavy snow we've had in UT this year, this river might cause some flooding really soon! (In addition to the tunnel under Main Street, that is.)

Flat Jenny noticed there were some cute calves next to the trail that were about the same size as Mack. She told Mack he should stop and look at them for a few minutes. Maybe they could become friends?!

Mack and Flat Jenny were very happy when they returned to the car. They'd had a great run despite the obstacles. Running makes for happy days! ;o) Keep up the great work, Flat Jenny. There are only 10 days until the Utah Valley Half Marathon!