Storytelling Sunday: Earning My Keepsake

{The first Sunday of each month, Sian of From High in the Sky hosts Storytelling Sunday, an opportunity for bloggers to gather and share a few stories. For 2013, she has suggested that we share stories about our precious keepsakes. Here's my story for today.}

On Friday, I bought this necklace at the registration expo for the 2013 San Diego Rock'n'Roll Marathon and Half-Marathon.
By the time you read this, I will have arisen at 3:15 a.m. to put on my running shirt and race bib, my running tights and race socks.  I will have laced up my shoes and packed a bag with my supply belt and visor.
I will have met my race team in the hotel lobby at 4:00 a.m. to catch the shuttle bus to the starting line of the race.
By the time you read this, I will have waded through 20,000 people and will have found my corral for the 6:45 a.m. start.
I will have looked at my daughter, Clara, and thanked God for giving us the opportunity to take this incredible journey together and for all that it has done for her and for us.
By the time you read this, I will have run 13.1 miles to honor Mick, Judy, Phil, Trish and Thelma, as well as Jeff, Peter, Marti, Megan and Sandi.
I will have paid homage to our Santa Cruz team honorees Gini, Doug, Kathy and Greg.
I will have thought about Paul every step of the way.
By the time you read this, I will have completed the San Diego Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon, and by the time you read this, I will have earned a new precious keepsake.
Thank you all for your support and encouragement.  I could not have done it without you.
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p.s. The 2013 Summertime Photography Scavenger Hunt is on! Check out the details at this post.