Earlier in this year, I decided that I wanted to challenge myself to completing a full marathon. I had done shorter-distance runs in the past and loved them ... but could I really run double the distance?! I wasn't sure but I sure wanted to try! I did some research on different marathons in surrounding states (I wanted to go somewhere other than Iowa) and landed upon the Lakefront Marathon in Milwaukee. The reviews I read were good ... it was small with only around 3,000 runners competing and the course was relatively flat with several views of Lake Michigan. It was also earlier in the fall (October 5), which was good for me since I don't enjoy cold weather (nor do my lungs). As I was getting ready to sign up, I had a conversation with one of my best friends, Amber. During that conversation, she mentioned that she was thinking about running a marathon (she said this without any mention from me of my similar aspirations). I said NO WAY! and told her about the marathon I was planning to enter. She checked on some dates and decided that she would sign up, too. Talk about an awesome deal ... I found a great race and found a great running partner!

Before jumping to the conclusion and talking about the race, I am going to reflect a little on what it took to get there ... the struggles and the joys (yes, there are some!) of the preparation and training. I definitely learned a lot along the way!

The training plan I decided to use came from the same running site that produced the half-marathon training plan I used for my Dam to Dam races. I liked the plan because it gave me three days off and didn't include any cross-training. Rather than a typical 20-week plan, it was 16 weeks. I wasn't intimidated; however, as the site recommended this for anyone with running experience. As I started the training, I found that the plan was working great. I was getting the mileage in, no problem. My pace was pretty good, too. All was grand until I reached the halfway point. Then I hit a wall. A giant wall. One that I didn't know if I'd be able to overcome. My body was beginning to feel the effects of the climbing mileage. I was to do 14 and settled for 11. I was slated for two 16-milers and only reached 14 each time. I was even having to walk some! I never, ever walk! My legs felt like they were running on empty and my knee was starting to ache. My mental state and confidence were even weaker. I started doubting myself and even considered quitting.

I couldn't quit, though. Not on myself and especially not on Amber. So, I reached out to my friend, Gina, who is a seasoned runner with three marathons under her belt. She's a positive person who has a knack for inspiring others. She was exactly who I needed to pull me out of this funk. Gina emphasized that our bodies aren't meant to run 26 miles (isn't that the truth?!). And, my goal, first and foremost, should be to finish. The pace doesn't matter, so slow things up some and if I need to rest, rest. All good advice!

I took a couple days off and made the promise to myself to run slower. My knee felt better and I stopped thinking about the mileage and how long it was going to take me to finish. As a result, I was immediately able to reach my mileage goals, without any walking. What a relief this was!

There were still some other struggles along the way. In addition to the sore knee, I also battled two minor colds and routine post-run cramps and diarrhea (TMI?! Sorry!). Otherwise, I was healthy and happy. On a more positive note, I couldn't have asked for a better summer. Cooler temps with only a handful of rainy days. I also discovered some new trails and passed a lot of friendly, smiling faces; runners typically love to wave to other runners. It is great motivation! And even though long runs take a lot of time, they are also so good for the soul. I have a ton of time to myself ... just me, my music and the pavement. I think about a lot of things, like my family, my friends, my job, my dreams. It takes me away from the hecticness of the day, and I end the run feeling grateful for all that I have.

Well, that was my training in a nutshell. Now, to talk about the race! The race ended up being ... fabulous! Yes, fabulous! I ran the whole thing. I didn't need to stop to go to the bathroom or stretch or aid an ache. My body stayed strong the entire race. And, in my typical fashion, I actually got stronger as I went along. Once I hit mile 20, I didn't hit a wall, but rather, felt motivated to pick up my pace. I don't believe I was passed by anyone in the last eight miles or so of the race, which was a great feeling. I saw a lot of people walking or stopping to address an injury. I felt bad for them ... we were so close ... yet so far away! I hope they were all able to finish.

The first half of the race went well, too. Amber and I were able to run together until about mile 14, when we lost each other at a water station. She did such a fabulous job and I'm so proud of her! We've been teammates most of our lives so we aren't competitive with one another, making us the perfect running partners. We only want each other to do well!

The course only gave us a few glimpses of Lake Michigan, otherwise, we ran through lakeshore neighborhoods. This ended up being awesome, though, because these neighborhoods were filled with supporters. They had signs, cowbells and music to encourage us on. They cheered for us and some even called us by our names (since our bibs had our first names on them). It was so motivating and my favorite part of the race! Thank you, people of Milwaukee! I also was able to chat with a few fellow runners as we made our way along the course. No matter the age, gender or ability, I think runners have a mutual respect for one another. And this is why I love the sport so much!

I ended up with a time of 4 hours, 38 minutes and 58 seconds. My pace was 10 minutes and 39 seconds. I am happy with this. I had a goal in the back of my head (after the goal to simply finish) to be under 5 hours. I was glad I was able to do this and would have been proud of my results, regardless. Completing a marathon isn't easy. It takes dedication, good health, a support team and a little luck. I am grateful to say I had all those things on my side and was able to make it to the finish line!

A special thanks to my coworkers for the card and gift certificate for an hour-long massage. I can't wait to use it. Also, thanks to my Mom, Dad and sisters for the beautiful flowers, good luck balloon and card. So appreciated!