With two hours of sleep I am up and ready to get it done. Nervous but ready! I walk over to the start hype. Ultra Lite has a major display and the people working there are nice. No beer for me, EVER, but I am not judging those who are whooping one down for the carb-load right now.
Off to the starting corral and this is a lively bunch. I will not run with my iPod today unless I feel like I can not make it.
And we're off!
Mile 1 - Here we go with the mix of the half and the full marathoners making for tight quarters. And my Lord - men you are right - women do talk a lot. I have to shake this group of women who just won't shut up!
Mile 2 - Where are we? I have never been in these parts before. People are hanging clothes on a clothestring on their porch. I have not seen that in ages. Nice friendly people cheering us on though.
Mile 6 - Going steady and going strong. No worries. Not bad for someone who has not run in 2 months.
Mile 12 - The breaking point for the half-marathoners. You're almost there - best of luck!
Mile 16 - Oh yes the Galleria. Something about knowing there is a mall nearby with the best mix of discount, luxury, and quality is helping me to run.
Mile 20 - Okay I am almost to Memorial Drive and this is my ULTIMATE stopping ground and I have hit an early wall. Time to stretch because I have to take this on in to the finish. Let me run a little and walk a little. And there is the Ultra Lite group handing out beers. Wonder if that works. I will try these Sports Beans instead.
Mile 21 - 25 And now it's time for the iPod. Some strength came from somewhere as I am running through River Oaks. Timeout: I get my strength by running through the expensive residential areas. Evaluate that later!
I am running past Otto's and wishing I had a turkey barbecue sandwich on a wheat bun. Wow! The last time I will pass this place. I am sad that they are closing tomorrow and I stop and walk and take it in.
Mile 26 - Downtown I see you. The finish is on the way. I am doing a lot of waving and thank yous to the volunteers. Let me just smile. I need all the energy I can get.
FINISH - I did it. I can't believe this - under 5. Wow! Take 2 months off and perform the best. And here's my medal for my Houston comeback. BUT I have to walk to the farthest end of the convention center to get my finisher's shirt and mug. SAY WHAT!!!!
Timeout: I just ran 26 miles and I have to walk the equivalent of 3/4 mile to get my well-deserved Under Armour shirt. Hell keep the mug but the shirts should have been given with the medal. Lord have mercy!
I brave the walk like a little old lady with a walker afraid to walk after a fall. I return outside of the Convention Center and there is a bike taxi - just like in San Diego. Price is not a worry - take me to the hotel!
Cold bath for 15 minutes - NO ICE! Not an athlete yet!
Pack up and head to the airport.
Continental hold me down. Oh wait, no legrests!
