#43891...I Run Because I Can...

2 days

So clearly, clearly, it was a lot easier training for 26.2 miles than it was blogging about it. It seems like a minute ago I registered for the Chicago Marathon after taking about a six month hiatus from running. That same day I went for a run and only lasted 20 minutes. I was so frustrated I went for another 20 minute run later that day.

I don't think I truly believed I was going to accomplish my goal until late in my training. I felt like blogging about it would keep me accountable and also serve as motivation, the ability to look at how far I've come. Last week on a run I was thinkinking about my failed attempt to be a member of the blogosphere and I realized that every run, every mile, every drop of sweat, is with me. I didn't need a blog to remind me of how challenged I have been physically and emotionally during my training.

22 miles was the hardest run for me. It was the only run I literally felt like I couldnt do it. People have been telling me mentally that is the hardest run. I pray they are right. So many times I have daydreamed aboout what the marathon will actually be like. I have had airport stomach for aboout a week now ("airport stomach" is an adjective describing the ball of energy that sits in your stomach when you wake up at 4 am to catch a flight). I have no doubt that 1.5 million fans, 45,000 runners, some of the people I love the most in this world, in my favorite city, will keep me going.

Besides running this with one of my best friends, Liz, and knowing that Danael will be there at the finish line, I think the greatest part about Sunday is that my mom will be there cheering me on, stronger every day and with hair!! Cancer free for almost a year, I don't think I could ask for a sweeter gift. My mantra during my training has been inspired by an article my friend Liz shared with me about the opportunity to run, not the necessity. It has grown to become a part of my run as I pray for my Mom, and others like Peden, Oakes' mom, Brittney's dad, and Jessica's mom. I ran for them, because I could.

A big thanks to all the kind words of encouragement from all my friends. This would not be possible without support from the people around me. I hope I make you proud!

Three Songs That Made My Run More Reale:
"Not Afraid" Eminem
"Cosmic Love" Florence + The Machine
"London Bridge" Fergie