Glow-in-the-Dark 5k was a Success!
Months ago I saw a friend’s photo on Instagram of a group of ladies at a glow in the dark run in another city. My sister and I had been talking about doing some kind of run in Eden’s honor since right after we lost her. I remember thinking that the glow-in-the-dark theme would go perfectly with our trademark “fireworks”, and so the planning began. I have planned a lot of parties, recitals, dance performances, etc, but never a 5K. Stumbling in the dark, the event came together and on Saturday evening, August 10, as I watched the firework show after the run with tears in my eyes, I thought, “We did it, Eden!” Because the planning had consumed my thoughts and time all summer, I really hadn’t had a chance to really think about what the event represented, until I saw the fireworks hit the sky. We had the 5K because we didn’t have Eden. Had Eden been a healthy four-year-old at this moment, planning a glow-in-the-dark run would have never, not in a million years, been on my calendar.
But this was the hand we were dealt, and, in turn, we dealt it to God. And a beautiful thing happened. Over a hundred runners/walkers/observers came together to celebrate life and love, all in the name of an amazing little girl. Yes. My heart is sad. I’d rather have her with us. But it is amazing how God’s goodness works. It’s so good that it soothes over all the rough edges of the bad. Words fail me to explain, but it somehow happens. When you let it. The event was bittersweet in part, but, at the same time, I have never felt more accomplished, blessed, and loved.
Of course, I couldn’t have done it without my wonderful board members, who continually to blow me away with their generosity and determination, – Tatum Marlatt, Rita Barney, Donna Olson, Kristi Johnson, Delaina Jeter, and, of course, my hubby Justin Spaeth. I had a blast planning this with you, and I can’t wait until next year! And, Justin, I look forward to walking the trail in the dark over and over, brainstorming over what cool additions we can add to the course.
I would like to recognize our Comet Level sponsors: Durango Services (can’t get their logo to load to the page)
And a special thanks to our other sponsors: Competition Sports, Signs of Life, Woodward Wellness Center, Impact Casing, Preston Manufacturing, SPC Office Products, Western Enterprises, and Senator Bryce and Mrs. Tatum Marlatt
Also, a big thank you to all of the volunteers that helped set-up, tear-down, and make the event run smoothly!
And here’s proof that many choose to be fireworks:
Board Members: Kristi Johnson, Donna Olson, Me, Rita Barney, Tatum Marlatt (not pictured – Delaina Jeter, Justin Spaeth)
Fastest Man – Sheldon Meliza
`Fastest Woman – Heather Hague
Me, my mom, and our favorite hair stylist who came from OKC to run
Right before take off.
Other Awesome Fireworks……….
Began with Glowing Bubbles. Ended with Fireworks.
Can’t wait until next year! Continue to Look Alive!
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