Well, in exactly 8 days I will be lining up to the start line for my first marathon. What a crazy thought. I guess I really have come a long way since April, when I had to struggle through a mile, then two, then three. I remember in those first runs how my heart resisted the new exercise, which was overwhelming so early on. I tried to encourage myself by increasing my speed each day to give myself little successes to be proud of. I started to feel comfortable, calm, and introspective as I ran. As I continued, I went on a rollercoaster of emotions from extreme doubt that I could actually make it through a marathon alive to a stubborn commitment to finish something I started. I often picture myself crossing the finish line and embracing everyone around me, including friends and family and random strangers. I am excited to race again. It’s been a long time since I ran in a race and I’m getting the nerves like no other. But I’m mostly excited because I know I’m in a lot better shape than I was in high school, and if I can just stay calm, I know I’ll be fine. I’ve never been to a marathon before, so I’m not sure what to expect in terms of spectators, but everyone says Chicago is PACKED so I’m excited for that too. I am bummed that my parents won’t be there, and that my aunt and uncle and grandparents will be out of town, but hopefully Katy will come and maybe a couple of my Chicago friends. I didn’t realize that it would be so important for me to have people there, but the training has turned into more of an emotional journey than I anticipated, and suddenly I’m very grateful that Todd is also running. I have a feeling I will be a ball of mess throughout the race, which is just fine by me, as long as I don’t get lazy about my pace since I won’t have my iPod. No more Mamma Mia! to keep me pushing harder

Should be a fun ride. Now that it’s so close I just can’t wait to get started, but I know it’ll be here before I know it. Wish me luck!