Off to See Mickey!

"My bags are packed, I'm ready to go": Did my last run yesterday afternoon, packed my weekend bag, dropped the dog off with some friends, and now we're ready to head to Orlando, but before I go, I want to share some "thanks" for those who helped me get to this point (careful, this is gonna be like an Oscar acceptance speech: sappy and lengthy!). A runner certainly runs alone in many ways, but even someone training alone, like myself, doesn't do this kind of training by herself -- she needs a team of supporters cheering her on. Without mine, I wouldn't be getting ready for such a feat on Sunday.


First off, I'd like to thank my husband -- the unsung hero of my training. The training has taken me away from him physically, mentally, and emotionally: I'm sure he would have preferred that at the end of a work day I would have stayed home with him instead of running out the door to get my run in, but he never said anything; instead, he encouraged me and always asked about the running. I'm also sure he would have preferred countless conversations about something other than running or marathons, yet he never switched the topic when I droned on about both. Running has become a big part of my life over the past 18 months and this marathon has been an even bigger part in the past 4 months, but instead of resenting the time and effort I spend on it, my husband has only supported my interest. I wouldn't be headed to Disney if it weren't for him. Of course, he is the one who's driving.

Secondly, I'd like to thank my friends: All of them here in South Florida, all of them back in MN, and all of them scattered in a few other states! Everyone has taken a keen interest in my 'thon experience and they have continously offered support and encouragement that has been invaluable (some of the guys even so generously offered to have me run to the strip club to pick them up -- ahh, you can't buy friends like that!). And I would especially like to thank Erin, who knew that I was nervous this week and has thus peppered me with emails, calls, and a sushi dinner to help pep me up and encourage me -- she will probably worry enough for the both of us, so maybe I won't need to as much -- thanks Erin!

Third, I'd like to thank my family and my husband's family -- all of whom I know will be thinking of me on Sunday morning and who, I know, love me if I finish or not!

And lastly, a HUGE thanks to my fellow RBFers!! When I started this blog a year and a half ago, I could've never imagined that I would become part of such a tight knit running community! Everyone's advice, suggestions, help, encouragement, humor, and support have made this marathon training, and before that -- all of this running -- so much easier. Even though I've never met any of you in person, I feel like I have a big team of friends out there, so thanks -- it's been invaluable to have you all!

Alright, I think that's it! Thanks again, and I'll report to you on Sunday! Cross your fingers for me!