April 21, 2014 - At the finish line, nothing left but pure joy and pride

Kelly Swan Taylor

Looking back at this year’s Boston Marathon, I can honestly say it was both the easiest and most difficult thing I have ever done. The love and support from the crowd, volunteers, and fellow runners, especially while approaching the Finish Line, certainly made this race easy. And at the same time, completing the Boston Marathon is truly a difficult endeavor.

This year’s race started out a little more organized and, much later in the morning thanks to our decision to drive to Hopkinton, instead of venturing into Boston for the long bus excursion to Athletes’ Village (allowing me more sleep and a good breakfast of a bagel and banana). The ride went pretty smoothly until we encountered an accident around Hopkinton, which cleared up fairly quickly. Unfortunately, by that time my marathon hydration preparation started to get to me and I had to stop by a bathroom. Of course, my family was more interested in finding parking and was totally ignoring my requests. I had to explain I certainly could not wait until Athletes’ Village, seeing I probably would have to wait another 45 minutes just for the port-a-potty line. But, we turned around and finally found a Dunkin’ Donuts (like that is a tough thing in Massachusetts!). The funny thing was that I still ended up waiting in line behind -you guessed it - six other runners!

April 15, 2013 - I angrily answered my phone: “What? I’m trying to run a marathon here!”

Kelly Swan Taylor

In Boston, No One Runs Alone

As a runner in the 2013 Boston Marathon, rather than a day of tragedy, I prefer to remember the experience as one of a special race, with generous people, starting on such a beautiful day. The city truly came together to help its own, and adopted all Boston Marathoners as family.

I started my day with very little sleep, and woke at 4 am. I live in Providence, so we had a long trip ahead of us to drive to the Rt. 128 MBTA commuter rail station, and then take the train into Boston to meet the buses to Hopkinton. All of my race gear was laid out the night before, as I diligently packed things to bring to Athletes’ Village, and then to carry with me along the run. I packed a million things and have no idea how I thought I could carry so much extra stuff, including an extra two pairs of socks. Clearly, I never will be a light packer for any trip. Also, I should have carb-loaded during that morning adventure, but was just too nervous and excited to eat too much. Of course, I would regret the lack of food and energy later, but it certainly is a lesson learned.

2013 - I never had to fight off any negative emotions. They just didn't stand a chance.

Michelle San Antonio

I usually can't wait to write a race recap, and my recap of Boston was of course going to be no exception. But circumstances have obviously changed.

Despite the emotional turmoil, though, I do want to get these thoughts down, because as time passes, I will forget some of the details - and I don't want to forget them.

I don't want to forget all the awesome and uplifting moments of the day, because that's what Boston is really all about.

Yes, in some ways it feels wrong to be recounting the good stuff when so many are hurting - and will continue to hurt for days and months and years. And I am in no way discounting that, or forgetting it.