Well, you win some and you lose some. You have good days and bad. Sometimes things go right according to plan and sometimes it seems they deviate as much as possible from said plan. That's life. I'm learning.
For those who wonder, yesterday's race was a 'not according to plan' experience; in short, I knew my goal time was toast about mile 6 as unwanted muscle cramps became my side-kick for the next 20 miles. And yes, I finished cause I was too stubborn and frustrated not too, but that's not much consolation after 4 months of training. However, I suppose that now I have that much more resolve to redeem myself in the future, for this hopefully won't be my last marathon (although I distinctly remember telling myself about mile 10 that this was on the list of the dumbest things I've ever done). So on to the next race...
Race disappointment aside, the weekend was not a total bust. Great family adventure time, a few unexpected surprises, and certainly came home with stories to tell. And despite the soreness, I continue to enjoy a strong healthy body that many are not blessed with.
Many thanks of course to the support crew: family, friends, and coaches alike. You know who you are. Special kudoos to DonMark, who ran beside me for the last 6 miles ("this is the last hill?"). We'll have him entered in the Half in no time.
There was about 18 last hills in that thing!!!!