Taking a bit of a break this week. Plus, I have sick kids. They were nice to wait until after the marathon! I'm going to write all my thoughts here so I can make some decisions of "What's next?" I absolutely believe I am fit enough to make that OTQ. However, fitness alone doesn't always translate. I need marathon specific training. I spoke with Paul Pilkington last night ,and I may have him help me out with coaching. I feel like I need someone who can simultaneously rein me in, yet psh me farther . . . if that makes sense. I liked what he was saying about running tempos of 16-18 miles at 12-15 seconds slower than marathon pace to train the body to use its fuel efficiently. I have been thinking of Grandma's as another shot. Paul suggested I run Chicago. He feels the conditions are more likely to be amenable there. I think weather is always a bit of a crapshoot regardless of where you run. However, I do think that a flat fast course suits my strengths better than a rolling one. So here's the analysis: Grandma's: Pros: It's sooner, which would give me more flexible family time this summer. Plus, I could still have one more shot if it didn't work out. There are usually lots of people going for the OTQ. I would get my own bottles. It's a good course if conditions are good. It's on a Saturday. Cons: Flying into Duluth is about 800 bucks. It could be hot and humid, which would kill me. Rolling courses don't play to my strengths as much. Chicago: Pros: Fast course. It would be easier to train for without worrying about course specific training. I'm a rhythm/track kind of runner. It may suit me better. They give a 2500 dollar time bonus for hitting the standard. I could build mileage and run some shorter spring races. There's lots of races in the summer that can be incorporated into training and provide a little extra money along the way. Cons: It's expensive. I added up flight, hotel and entry and it was over 1000 dollars. I couldn't use my own bottles. Would I have other OTQ people to pace with? It's on Sunday. Weather might not cooperate. If I didn't get it, that would probably be my last shot. Then there's other factors. I have to consider my family's sacrifices and my husband's support. It's tough balancing family and trying to get a big running goal. Sometimes I think that chasing this standard is not worth all the investment. But, I'm so close and so capable and this is likely my last competitive Olympic cycle. It's one year of focused training. Then, I would call it good. So, lots to think about. Thoughts and opinions are appreciated! Is anyone planning on running Chicago? | 