Hard Corps

Last weekend, Kevin and I drove down to Washington D.C. for the Marine Corps Marathon. Kevin had been training long and hard for the race, so there was definitely a little bit of nervous energy in the car. Not only was there the anticipation of Sunday's race, but the drive was downright stressful-Friday at 5 on the New Jersey Turnpike in the rain...need I say more?

Saturday and Sunday were absolutely beautiful. We took some time on Saturday to check out the monuments and other capitol attractions, without putting too much strain on Kevin's limbs.

The Capitol Building

A frog we found on an exotic flower at the United States Botanic Gardens

The sight that made the biggest impact on me was the World War II memorial. It is very beautiful with tall columns, dedicated to the men and women who served from all 50 states. There were many people visiting the memorial, even a few WWII veterans. It brought tears to my eyes to think of what it must be like for them, to remember the pain, the courage, the hope, and all the events that surrounded that time in their life.

Race day started really early. Kevin's friend, Jason, came from Cleveland to run the marathon as well. So, Britt, Jason's wife, and I took the Metro to the starting line to begin spectating. Watching a marathon isn't like watching any other sporting event. You actually have to haul yourself around to multiple places on the 26.2 mile route in order to cheer for your loved one. It can be exhausting! Especially when you're with thousands of other people who are trying to reach mile 14 to pick out their loved in in the crowd of crazy runners.

Kevin had a great race and finished hard. There was a tough hill right before the finish and I got this shot of him powering up the hill. Hard core.

To the left of Kevin is one of the many Marines who volunteered their time for the marathon. In my civilian life, I don't have many chances to see the men and women who sacrifice so much to protect the U.S. and so many other countries around the world. It was inspiring to see many men and women from all branches of the Armed Forces running the marathon with all of the strength and courage that they could muster. There were also many participants wearing shirts in memory of a loved one who lost their life defending our country and our freedom.

To all the men and women of the Armed Forces, especially those overseas, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Thank you for your sacrifice and courage.