When I woke up this morning I smiled because the biggest decision I have to make this Memorial Day is what time am I going to head to the cookout? Oh, and should I have one hamburger or two? My money is on two.

And then I remembered that 5 years ago I had a much different Memorial Day on tap.

You see May 25th, 2009 was the date of the LA Marathon… my very first marathon.

And as I look ahead to the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon on Sunday (my 8th full marathon, along with 26 half marathons) I wanted to pause and share a few images from my inaugural 26.2 mile romp.

My running group, nicknamed “Joan’s Jets.”

…before the storm.

Let’s get this party started.

Emerging from the distance.

All by myself.

Left foot, ouch. Right foot, ouch.

Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming.

Okay, who farted?

Peace or victory… can’t really remember. I was a little loopy.

Objects in the distance are more tired than they appear.

Why yes, I will have an orange piece.

9 more miles to go?

You with the camera… hi!

Are we there yet?

After 26.2 miles.

Holy sh#t, I didn’t die.

My first full marathon bling.

Look, I’m a big tinfoil burrito.

Oh dear god, I’m one big knot.

Nope, can’t feel my legs.

Finally… a marathon man.

Happy Memorial Day and… Run on!