The marathon is upon us...

So here we are...it is the week of the marathon.  Words can not describe how excited/nervous I am for this experience.  My friends have already been warned what a basketcase I will be, come Sunday morning.  I don't do well under stress and lets be honest I stress about everything, and I am especially stressed about this!  But more than stressed I am excited!  Of all the cool vacations I have been on or weddings I have participated in...I am more excited for this weekend than any other weekend I can ever recall! 

I can not put into words what an amazing experience this has been.  I am definitely an advocate of anyone trying this at least once.  I have learned so much about myself.  I know you are probably thinking its just running what is the big deal?  But it is sooo much more than that.  It is about being mentally stronger than you are physically.  Its about proving that if you work hard at something you can acheive it.  When I think about crossing the finish line I want to cry. 

God help me....if there are thunderstorms and they close the course I will have a panic attack.  But I am not going to worry about things that are out of my control right now!

I can't believe how fast the last 18 weeks have gone!  Here is a picture of my first training run in December with Courtney (she will also be crossing the finish line of her first marathon this weekend!!!):

It was only 3 miles but snowy and cold, which made it seem longer.   

Here is a pic of me today on my last training run today:

I just did my last 3 mile run with my co-worker Karrie, in the rain and it was a breeze.  I have now completed the entire Hal Higdon 18 week to a Marathon training program.  I think I missed a total of 2 workouts...not too shabby! 

All I have to do now is stretch and DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also this weekend is shaping up quite nicely!  Not only is the Royal Wedding tomorrow, but one of my best friends Ashley welcomed a new baby boy on April 27th and I get to meet him before the big race.  Lots to be excited for in life!

Hopefully the next time I post it will be of pictures with me at the finish line.