Siblings On A Sunny Sunday

First thing, Steph and Gaz went off to the Starting point, and met up with their good friend Rob. They started off running together

Meanwhile, Liz and I took the boys to the park, then walked along the footpath back to the house. Why was one street sign in Welsh?

Things were going quite well, until Steph and Rob noticed their trio was now a duet. Actually, Gaz was behind them...
Steph was running faster than Rob, so he urged her to go on ahead, which she did...

By now, we were back home, Liz put together a picnic lunch and I encouraged the boys to use the loo. We walked a few yards round the corner and sat down on the pavement to eat our lunch and wait for our runners to come past

There was an online system for tracking, but neither Liz nor I could get it to work on our phones. But Christine [Rob's wife] who was near the finish line, and Bob [In Norfolk] kept us supplied with the necessary information. 

Eventually all three ran past - my first picture of Rob was spoiled by a very large man running in front - but here is the rear view of our friend going by.
Steph and Gaz both diverted and gave the boys quick hugs.

Once we had done waving., Liz and I took the boys home [Can I watch some TV now, please? asked George] 

Christine actually managed a video of Steph 200m from the finish line...

Steph's time was 4.09.11, knocking nearly 40 mins off her previous Personal Best. Liz went for her train, and I fed the boys, bathed them and got them in pjs. We watched more SpongeBobSquarePants. I do declare that programme is drawn by drug crazed insomniacs. I cannot make head nor tail of it! [my family will insist on calling it AngBobSquarePants] 

Christine met the three at the finish line, with fresh clothing, and they all had a brief celebration. [How does Steph look so bright, and nothing like someone who has spent 4 hours running?]

Mum and Dad finally got home around 6.30. The boys were overjoyed and larked around wearing the medals...

2015, 20224 and now 2026. Steph says that she does not plan to run any more marathons [that orange vest is at least 11 years old now] But I am one very proud Mum this week. 

Not just proud of Steph - but of sister Liz giving up her weekend to come and help with the boys. And two little brothers who were very supportive. And these two cool dudes in London, who stayed at home with Dad. [And well done Rob and Gaz for running, and thanks to Christine and Jon also in their supporting roles] 

The boys were so good