I did it, again! Thank you to everyone in my life who supported, encouraged, motivated, inspired, cheered, and helped me through my journey of running the Paris Marathon. The run was an unbelievably challenging and rewarding gift, and would not have been possible without everyone in my life. An incredibly huge shout out to my fabulous mother-in-law who traveled from Japan be there for me, as well as my beloved father who traveled from Sweden. Would not have been the same without them (Ken was in NYC taking care of the kids — thank you!), and I am forever grateful of their love and support (and how amazing is it that my parents and inlaws get along so well? Makes me want to cry, I am that lucky of a girl).

The start

Place de la Concorde.

The elite. I ran 1 mile in the time that these men ran 26.2 miles.

Men galore.

Women — where are you? 79% of the marathon were MEN! Women — get on the streets and RUN!

White, french, men. Of the 50,000 participants, 66% were French. 2.5% were American. (WHO LOVES STATS?)

I am in love with Paris. Watch out, Ken.

Crowded streets.

Bands throughout the city. According to the marathon pamphlet that I have studied for hours on end, there were over 100 bands performing in the streets on the day of the marathon. Incredible.

All different types of bands; high school bands, african dancing, mediocre singers, talented groups, old school french style singers, ANYTHING helped! Loved (and appreciated) the energy, encouragement, and support!

One happy camper. DONE with marathon *AND* eating ham and cheese baguette.

Hot pink lady! (Mind you, I have *NO* idea what I was doing with my hands in all these pictures?? Delirious…)
NOW, on to plan my next marathon….I think I have found a new hobby! More pictures and commentary on Paris in the next post — so stay tuned. And if you want to run a marathon, definitely aim for the Paris Marathon. It is the prettiest city in the world. Photo credit to all the photos: Papa Proskurowski — thank you!
Congratulations! That’s awesome. Pictures look beautiful.. You go!
Thanks so much!
Felicitation, la fille Josie!!
HAHAHA, Merci!
Congrats! Looks like you had a great time.
I did! I want to go back and do it again!
must have been a great experience!!! would love to do something like that one day…
DO IT!
Congratulations!! We are so proud of you. You are a real inspiration Anika.
Thanks so much, Sue! I really appreciate it!
Congrats again on an amazing accomplishment!! Great pictures!
Thanks, Michelle!!!!
Congratulations Anika!!! Well done!! The pictures are fab!
Thanks, Trisha! Thanks for all your support!
So, so proud of you!!!!
Thanks, Midge!!!! Really appreciate it!!