Thoughts before M-Day

The Chicago marathon holds a little more significance to me. Some of you may or may not know but Chicago was my first attempt at the marathon 2 years ago. I posted a DNF due to reasons beyond my control. If you don't want to click the link the short story is it was a humid 90 degree day andI didn't know what to expect (I thought that's how you were supposed to feel!). I passed out due to severe dehydration around mile 19 but don't remember. I woke in an ER as a Jane Doe and no one could find me for nearly 4 hours. I was admitted overnight and finally discharged after I made a huge stink with severe dehydration and rhabdomylosis. My memory slowly returned thankfully. And now I have some things to finish. I was able to complete my first marathon in Dallas less than 2 months after Chicago and while that was sweet I have been waiting for the day I could run Chicago again. Last year was the year of the wedding so it was a no go. My time has finally come to settle the score :)

What I went through that day rises back up and shakes me every so often. For the most part I am able to laugh about what a great story it makes but at the time it was extremely serious. The whole not knowing what your name is and if anyone is looking for you can be quite scary. What I went through emotionally and physically 2 years ago is on my mind, gnawing away at me every race I start. I take inventory in the middle of races to compare how I'm feeling to that race.

I know I can finish; I have proven that 2 other times now. This time around it's for a little revenge and a lot of redemption. I'm freaking out but cannot wait! I'm a hot mess of emotions and have been throughout this training. I also recognize I've also had some seriously kick ass training happening over the last 12 weeks and can't wait to see how it unfolds M-Day. I honestly can say I have never been more excited to see the last 7-8 miles of a course and finish line in my racing history.

I'm know it's 2 years later, a lot changes over 2 years. But some experiences are meant to be remembered (even if I don't remember the entire experience) and taken with you. That experience helped shape me into the runner and person I am now. Besides some lingering chest pains when I cough/sneeze where they did the compressions too hard, I'm glad the whole mess turned out for the best and I have the opportunity to try this out again! So here's to marathon #4 (and hopefully finish #3!) It's going to be a much colder and hopefully sweeter experience!

I'm headed to the expo today... by myself... The hubs is saying no to another expo for a race he isn't running. Not sure if I'll post again before Sunday. Maybe if something really cool happens today. If you care to track me my bib number this time around is 18194. Otherwise I'll have facebook and a short blog update post-marathon! See you all on the other side :) And good luck to everyone racing Chicago and all the other races happening this weekend!