I DID IT!!!!

Well, I did it. My first marathon. Although my time wasn't what I wanted, I feel I succeeded in the fact that I finished fairly strong. Two weeks ago, I couldn't run more than 15 miles. Anything after that was a major struggle. So, needless to say, I was a bit apprehensive that morning. I just made up my mind that the first half I was going to go slow and easy. After that, run when I could. When I got to mile 20, I was surprised to find that I still had a lot more strength and will power than I had expected. The energy drinks and, gels helped. In fact, after mile 20, I had had 2 cups of the energy drinks provided at the aid stations and a packet of Gu. I felt so energized, I ran right through a scheduled walk break. It wasn't til mile 23 that my body wanted to check out. Left foot (with a previous injury) was hurting, the quads were trying to bail on me and the souls of my feet were protesting profusely. But at that point, I figured I only had 3 more miles to go, a long 3 miles. So I asked the Lord for the strength to make it to the end and He came through. I was able to muster enough strength and energy to sprint to the finish line. The ahces and pains, seemed to have left my body temporarily. My family and friends were at the finish line waiting to cheer for me. Immediately after we went out for lunch. Later that day went to in-law's for drinks. Before going to bed, my wonderful husband massaged my legs. He could feel the knots in my calves. So, I'm happy with my results, I'll work on the time thing with later marathons. I plan to run one in July and one on Labor Day weekend. After that, I think I'll put off "marathoning" til Spring of 2010. The marathons I run next year I'm going to try to do with out walk breaks or at least only a few.