Before the Half Marathon

Obviously Aly and her boyfriend Odus needed to first make the trek to DC before heading to VA beach for the half marathon. So they drove from MI a few days earlier and we got to have some good QT before heading to the beach.

Getting dolled up for dinner at The Palm. Aly in a dress and super high heels is one VERY rare occasion, so fun! It was an amazing dinner and we even found a red wine that Odus liked - also a VERY rare occasion :)

Friday was spent preparing for the first MSU football game of the season. So happy to see GAMEDAY back in action! Couldn't wait to get the flag out!

Odus treated us to an ah-mazing meal. He made us delicious his secret pico de gallo recipe and chicken and fish tacos. I couldn't stop eating!! Aly and I were his sous chefs in our Sparty gear. We ate and watched those Spartans beat Boise (after nearly giving us a heart attack in true Spartan fashion).

We decided to hone in Bell's "beast mode" skills for the half marathon, so it became a saying, inspiration, and focal point for us. GO GREEN!

Early Saturday morning we started our drive to VA beach. When we saw the ocean we knew we were close and at the point of no return - the half marathon was less than 24 hours away!

We went to check in to our hotel room and were a little worried we'd be in a dumpy room since everything was so booked. To our surprise the room was awesome! 1st floor with an open patio onto the boardwalk. Stage to the right where there were concerts all afternoon, evening, and the next day. And the eventual finish line (way over) to the left so you could sit on our patio and watch the runners come in. Well, Aly and I couldn't, but Odus and Nate did while they waited for us. Couldn't have lucked out more!

We spent the rest of the day on the beach, trying to relax and not think about the next day.

 

 Aly & Odus <3

Aly's brother Chase lives at VA beach so he joined us throughout the weekend telling us about how he goes to the beach ... everyday. We were all envious!

Nate & I chillin, reading, and passing out...

That night was a sad night. No indulging in anything unhealthy for Aly and I along with an early bedtime. No bueno! We were both nervous, grumpy, and not enjoying the limitations of preparing to run the next morning. Nate & Odus are saints for putting up with us :)