OMG. 6 days. That’s it! On Sunday morning I will begin a 26.2 mile journey within the five boroughs of New York City. My hometown, my heart, and my life. I love New York City, there is no place like it, I feel blessed to have grown up here. And to get to be part of the biggest marathon in the world, is amazing!
This taper hasn’t been the easiest either. Since I ran the Staten Island Half on Oct. 12th, I’ve had some pretty tough runs. Tendinitis in my hamstring for one is pretty uncomfortable, and I’ve been nursing it as best I can, but it has affected my pace, and I won’t lie and say I’m not worried about how it will feel this coming Sunday. But I keep telling myself whatever happens at this point is out of my control, and to just enjoy the day that lies ahead of me!
I can’t help but also think of how my life has gotten to this point, and all the hard work it took to get here. I was talking with a co-worker about my thoughts during these last few days, and when I mentioned that I keep thinking of what got me to the marathon, she simply stated, “when you started running races right?” But I told her, “No, it was almost 6 years ago when I decided to change my life.” When I quit smoking, quit binge drinking,quit letting the demons of my past control my life, and I decided I wanted to live a healthier life. Had I never made those choices, there’s no way I could have made it to the starting line of the marathon. I’m proud of myself for not giving up like I used to, for once in my life I stuck to something, and never stopped no matter how bad or good it got, I just did it! And because of that, crossing the finish line on Sunday will bring me so many emotions of pride and happiness! I am proving to myself that because I took the time to believe I was worth it, and I found the courage to love myself again, I really can do anything I set my mind to even when it may seem impossible at first.
This week will be a constant reminder of how far I’ve come, and I’m going to celebrate and live in every moment! I’m looking forward to being at the expo on Thursday with my sister, and then with friends on Friday. I’m looking forward to my final runs, as I’ve completed my training better than I thought I would. I’m looking forward to the carb filled dinners. The final race preps of my gear and clothing, and having everything in order before the big day! I’m excited to be part of the opening ceremony and represent my father’s country in the parade on Friday evening. I can’t wait for the memories I’ll create with my running family, and the celebrations in the days to come to enjoy all of our success!
I will be one nervous mess, but I’ll be a happy mess at the end. At the end, I become a marathoner, and all of this will have been worth every moment. Marathoner….you think I can put that on my resume???
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