This year, a number of Au Pair in America Community Counselors and au pairs ran in and volunteered at the NYC Marathon. Mother of 4 and Community Counselor from Connecticut, Margret Greene ran to show her children they could achieve anything. With that dream in mind and with her au pairs cheering her on, Margret finished with a very full heart – and a medal in hand. Thanking Au Pair in America for getting her there, she reflects on the Marathon below.
At first, I was hesitant to sign up for the NYC Marathon.
I had never run a marathon, and the first and last half-marathon I ran was 5 years ago. But, as a mother of four, I wanted to show my kids that it’s okay to dream big. I wanted to show them that they can achieve things they never thought imaginable and live a life full of adventure.
When Au Pair in America sent an email to Community Counselors across the country offering 3 spots in the NYC Marathon, I knew I had to consider it. My husband said I was crazy, but I jumped in, and Au Pair in America was supportive the whole way with encouraging emails and good wishes.
My plan at the Marathon was to take care of myself and have fun. There were over 50,000 runners from approximately 140 countries – and everyone was high-fiving the whole way.
As I made my way through the five boroughs, past some of New York’s most iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods, it was great to hear cheers from so many of my au pairs! Most were around miles 5-7 and 18-25. I soaked up their positive energy to help me move forward and thanked them for volunteering. The fact that some of my au pairs could actually be a part of this was priceless.
It was an unforgettable experience running through five boroughs and soaking up the incredible atmosphere from spectators of all walks of life. I high-fived tons of kids along the way, busted out some dance moves to the many bands that played, read all of the encouraging signs people made to cheer us on, and thanked the many volunteers who made this race possible. I enjoyed the views and met some amazing people.
Coming home felt great after finishing the Marathon, and I never would have finished if it wasn’t for Au Pair in America.
I was so happy to be done and have a medal in my hand. I slept well the night after the Marathon – and when I woke up, I couldn’t believe I finished! It felt like a dream.
My legs are sore, but my heart is full.
Thank you, Au Pair in America!
To learn more about with the world’s most experienced live-in cultural child care program, Au Pair in America, email Au Pair in America at aupair.info@aifs.com or schedule a phone consultation today.
