9:14 ap (Josse's Garmin said 9:04?) If a marathon was only 10 miles long, I'd be all set. It was a great run. The downhill second half aiding in the oh so elusive negative slpits (10:00/9:15/9:59/9:24/9:58/8:48/8:41/8:48/8:43/8:45). I felt strong and my hamstring only hurt a little toward the end and now that I'm cold. Josse and Ericka are always good to share their energy. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for next week that the funness of seeing and running a bit with Catherine, being at my sisters and running the monuments and the DC parkway is enough distraction to keep me from remembering how much I will surely want to die at mile 22. I have to run hard and earn my nephew's respect. One of the greatest pleasures of my life was being with my children at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. My son, especially. He put his arm around me as we walked down Boylston Street together. I cherish the memory of riding the train out of the city, my kids faces shining with pride, as they took turns looking at my medal and hugging me and slighty aware of the smiles and support of the other train riders. I have to do that for my nephews this time--even if my performance is less stellar, I have to finish strong for their sake. They really don't know me very well. They are now big, brooding teenagers (all of them 6'5 and taller). Not much captures their attention. This is my opportnity to show them what's what in their own city. I may not have many opportunties to gain these boys respect. I will need it in these upcoming years. | 