Wow, I NEVER thought I would say that. I have been training for months, but the last two weeks have been crazy. And then last week I was sick. But I had signed up and was committed.... My mom and my husband told me to not get injured and that I didn't have to run it. But emotionally, I was ready. It was the physical test I was worried about. My last "long" run was 9 miles and that was TWO long weeks ago. Before that, it was 12 miles. That was the furthest (or is it farthest? I never know) I had ever gone. The 9 mile was supposed to be 13 but there was so much pollen and gook in the air that I could NOT do it. So I went into it with low expectations. Finish. And don't die. But really, I wanted to finish at 2:30 or better. Having never run a half before I didn't really know what to expect. So, I started the race and realized I needed to not go out too fast. That got me in my last 10K. Stay steady and stay focused. After the first mile, I felt pretty good. Something about the mentality of that first mile that helps set you up for the rest of the race. It was foggy and I thought it was going to be colder. I had on two long sleeve shirts (I get cold easily on runs. No, it makes no sense, but it happens...) So I had to maneuver to get out of one of the shirts. Which was underneath the one I wanted to keep on. Of course. So I kept running and actually was shocked at how well my body felt. About 6 miles in I tried berry Gu for the first time. Yuck. I wish I had gotten the chocolate because I have a feeling it would taste like chocolate frosting. But I had about half of the little packet. Maybe that gave me a boost. I stopped for water about three different times and each time felt energized. At mile 8 I remember being SOOOOO thankful that I was not one of the crazies who signed up for a marathon. No way would I want to do more than 13.1 miles. It was a great course layout but really hard with some killer hills. But hey, it was in Knoxville, TN so what did I expect? I didn't walk too much but I walked some. Especially towards the end. We had one last BIG hill to go before entering the stadium. We ran into the stadium and onto the field across the 50 yard line. I am a die-hard born and bred Alabama fan, but being in that stadium was pretty cool (hubby is a UT fan...) I was focused on trying to look like I was not about to fall down or pass out in case they took pictures crossing the finish line. Then I heard them announce my name crossing the line. I glanced up to the time. Then down at my Garmin. They were actually pretty consistent. 2:18!!!!!!!!! I am so excited! It averages out to about a 10:30 minute mile. Over 13.1 miles, I don't think I've ever done that before. It was really fun! The jury is still out, though, if I want to do it again. It was a lot of hills and I can't wait to ice my knees while I drink a big ole glass of wine tonight. But I did it and did it better than I thought I would! I can't believe it is over. I guess I'll have to start planning my next race. But it'll definitely be shorter...