So...about this marathon thing...

I've done it. I've gone and lost my mind. I don't know what possessed me to think I can do it.

I am training for a marathon.

There, I've said it and I can see those raise eyebrows and here you say, "Watchootalkinboutwillis?"

There is an organization called Team In Training (TNT) that raises money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The way they do it is to provide regular people like me the training, motivation, and support to run marathons (or triathlons, or half-marathons). In exchange, the participants raise money that goes to the LLS for research, patient support, and services. The research that LLS does benefits not just those with Leukemia or Lymphoma but all cancers or blood disorders. I have signed up for the Nike Womens Marathon in October and I'm still quaking in my boots, or should I say running shoes, just thinking about it.

Now, now...before you think I've completely lost my mind...I'm not going to run all the way. My plan is to run/walk the 26.2 miles in intervals, following the Galloway method of interval running. Some members of my team are going to walk the entire way, so I don't plan on being last.

Training is going to be hard and time intensive. We run as a team 2 times a week and do cross-training or light running on our own 3 times a week. I have 5 months to prepare for this thing and I'm getting my strength and inspiration for loved ones who have suffered from cancer, leukemia, or other blood disorders. Officially, I am running in memory of my father who died of pancreatic cancer, the tough women in my life who've battled or are currently fighting cancers (my mom (lung), my mother-in-law (breast), , my aunt (recently diagnosed with breast cancer) my cousins Grace, Yoly, and JoAnn (breast)), and also for my 2 year old cousin Lilly who has HLH, a rare blood disease.

Peter has been super supportive of my decision and couldn't be prouder. Not only will I be raising money for a good cause but I'll be getting in shape and losing weight at the same time. Yay! I'll be updating this blog with my progress as my training goes along. Feel free to shower me with gratuitous praise and inspiration...I'm gonna need it!!!