Miles For Monte, The Event

We had an amazing and miraculous event for Miles for Monte. The day started out dramatically miserable, terrible rain, gloomy dark skies, and a general discouraging outlook. We kept up smiles and positive attitudes, confirming over and over that the race will go on...regardless. Privately, Piper and I prayed together that "it could rain all it wanted all day long, but Heavenly Father, please make it stop for 2 hours for Monte's race." Well, the rain continued up until the event, making the set-up and preparations a bit hectic, then immediately stopped about 20 minutes before the race time. Wow. I had avoided looking outside the last few hours before, and was shocked to step outside for the run to find sunny skies and dry pavement. It was a miracle from heaven. Later, as we left the gym for the final time, it was to see that the rain was again pouring, and continued all night long. Our hearts were gratified to have almost 200 people attend, and at least 150 runners participate. We felt loved and supported by this great community that we live in, and so excited at the number of friends and family that ran their own races in Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, and more!
We could not have done it without the many sponsors, volunteers, and helpers, we're so grateful!
The entire night was so incredible, it's hard to share it all. Here's a few of my favorite moments:
Before the race started we had everyone line up on either side of the gym and put Monte in his walker down the middle. As we chanted "Monte, Monte" he started out limply standing in it, then as he heard his name stood taller and taller and RAN his way through the crowd with his head held high and strong, marching leg action, running all the way to the door.
Monkey Moes donated a gigantic bounce house, Piper spent hours racing up and down on it, and was thrilled when she was able to drag me away from the last minute preparations to race through it with her. It made us collapse with laughter, and helped me calm down a bit!
I handed out huge chocolate feet to the winners in each category, saying things like, "I had the fastest feet!" "My feet are so fast, they might melt!" "I won the foot-race at Miles 4 Monte"
I was able to run one of my best times, even after having been up most of the previous nights that week finalizing everything. Each time I was tempted to walk for a bit I remembered Monte and his remarkable strength through each of his health struggles, and I couldn't quit.
Our family friend George Dyer surprised us and agreed to be our last minute MC, using his beautiful voice to make everything seem special!
The Andy's Frozen Custard and Krispy Kreme donuts were a perfect addition to the evening!
The LDS Missionaries were all able to attend and race, doing surprisingly well, one of them even placing 2nd in his age category. They helped both before and after the race, modeling their service and smiles to the community.
Anyway, it was exhausting, amazing, wonderful and overwhelming, and will always be one of my most special moments...
here's a few pictures of the night!