The Rock n' Roll Marathon is Back!
No, I am not running it.
Dear Travelers,
The Rock n’ Roll Marathon is back on! Why do I care if I’m not running it? Because the route goes straight through my neighborhood.
The marathon route has barreled through the heart of my neighborhood for about a decade now. The first year we were awoken at about 6:00am to a very loud band playing at the end of the street. Remember - Rock n’ Roll Marathon - there is a different band at every mile along the route.
We staggered out and realized what was happening. Now, I cannot wait for the marathon. I get up early and throw on some extra layers. (I know, I live in Southern California, just indulge me). I wake up the dog and give him some extra treats. My husband follows me out and we stop at the local coffee shop, grab our favorite drink, and head out to a bench by the street.
One year I caught a glimpse of the runners in the front of the pack - holy cats! They were so fast! How do you run that fast for that long, I’ll never know. One year a girl asked me for a hair tie as she ran by - I started to grab the one out of my hair but another runner handed her one. Another year, my husband’s co-worker who was running, stopped and talked to us for like 3 minutes. We were like, “are you supposed to be running right now? Don’t you need to go?”
See what I mean? Fun, right?
I take the day off work because the whole thing is like a mini-party and also because I pretty much cannot get out of my neighborhood with all the roads closed.
The neighborhood turns out with party favors. Groups of people stand on the corners and cheer. Everyone is helpful and supportive. After an hour or so, we head home satisfied with all we’ve accomplished. We fulfilled our spectator duties. We feed the dog, finish our coffee, and enjoy the rest of our Sunday.
There are a few things that are unique to where you live. Take part and embrace them. You will miss them when they’re gone or if you move. Your neighborhood is your tiny planet Earth - your community, so treat it well and get to know those around you.
I wish you a fantastic weekend ahead. Maybe you’re working or getting ready for Halloween or taking a run yourself. Whatever it is, enjoy it. I hope you’re making it your own. Until next time -
Peace,
Kit
What a lovely neighborhood story! Making the most of community.