30 days!

Today, October 6, 2011, marks just 30 days from the 2011 ING New York City Marathon! Wow! Everything finally seems to be falling into place, and my excitement for the race is outweighing my nervousness. For one, I reached my fundraising goal of $2620.00 for Team for Kids just in the nick of time! The deadline for meeting my pledge amount is today, but I reached my goal yesterday (and surpassed it today, raising a total of $2670.00). I am so amazed by the overwhelming support of my friends, family, acquaintances and even a few strangers! I had close to 60 different people contribute, including a cat (Otis!) and my family's dog (Rio!). I literally wouldn't be running this race without everyone's support, and it's difficult to truly express my gratitude. As a thank-you to all, I will stop spamming Facebook with money requests. Hooray!

Now that I am (mostly) sticking to my training schedule, my long runs are going much better. I recall a weekend back in August where I attempted 15 miles, but I got a late start and found myself shuffling along, parched and baking in the 90+ degree heat. That was discouraging to say the least. Then about 2 weeks after that, I ran 16. I made sure to get a much earlier start, and it was a huge improvement: I successfully completed the run without feeling like I was going to die, though it still felt a bit slow. Finally, this past weekend, I ran 18 and it felt great! I didn't just survive my run, I felt strong and was able to push the pace in the last few miles. I didn't know that was possible! I give some credit to having actually stuck to my training plan this month, but I mostly credit cooler temperatures (around 50 degrees - perfect!) and this nifty little guy:

I usually don't like carrying things in my hands when I run, so I was hesitant about purchasing something like this, but after realizing what a difference even a splash of water makes on a long run (and testing a friend's bottle), I took the leap. I was also able to smash a pack of GU and a few Clif Shot Blocks into the little pouch, which made for a nice little mid-run boost. Although my bottle only holds 12 ounces, it was perfect. I didn't want to spring for the 22 ounce bottle (bigger, heavier, more expensive), and I feel confident that I chose right. I rationed my 12 ounces throughout my run, but drank when I wanted to and felt satisfied. Yay!

So, now that my fundraising is completed and my training seems to be going well, I am getting EXCITED for the race! To add to my anticipation, I received this in the mail last week from Team for Kids:

Front

Back

Rad!! The jersey was delivered to my work in a mysterious and unexpected package, so when I opened it and realized what it was, I immediately put it on over my work clothes and tromped around, harassing my coworkers for donations........it worked! 

Psyched as I am about the jersey, I will not be wearing it for the race. My sister Melissa is making us super secret matching shirts! Can't wait! And speaking of Melissa, she is coming to Bend next week! During our visit, we will run our last long training run together - 20 miles - before we start to taper. I am so glad we will be together to motivate each other through this last long haul before race day. However, we are going to have some fun while she is here, too! We'll be hanging with family and friends, hiking, climbing, ale-trailing, and maybe even seeing some cycle pub action if we can pull a crew together. 

Two of my favorite things - beer and cycling.

Needless to say, fun will be had by all.....can't wait to see you, sis!