Marathon Before the Marathon

(First of many view of our Nation's Capitol)

Yesterday I ran a marathon. I meant it to be a 22 mile run before Boston to get my feet, legs and mind ready for the big race in three weeks. THREE weeks?! Did I just write that...the big race is in only three weeks...YIKES! And after yesterday's decision to just go ahead and finish the final four miles of Nation's Marathon in Washington DC...I am can finally say, I am totally READY!

Did you hear that Brittany...I am ready to run Boston...just for you!

So to all of you out there who haven't sent in your donation (we are so close to reaching our goal...under two hundred buckeroonies to go) now is the time. By waiting until the last minute, you actually get a little more help in making a decision as to what time you think I will finish my marathon.

Here are the facts from yesterday's race:

1.  The temperature was ideal for running.  A lovely chill in the air...perfect!

2. I started out at a very comfortable pace with my friend Stephanie who was running only the half.

3.  At no point in the race did I even come close to hitting "the wall," wanting to quit or experience pain (that has never happened in my past 8 marathons).

4.  I ran a negative split (that means I ran the second half faster than the first...by almost 10 minutes).

5.  I am really not that sore today (usually I am unable to walk without pain) and am thinking about running tomorrow.

I tell you all of this so you can get your guesses ready!

My time (with a few photo stops, bathroom stops, phone calls and a shoe tie):

3:41:56

(My friend Stephanie and I before the race)

Remember this was a training run. Usually when I run, there is no talking, stopping and a high level of pain the last few miles.

So what is your guess?!

Send in your donation today and make your prediction!