Countdown to departure…

I’m pretty well packed, except for the few things I’ll need in the morning, and those are already sitting in a plastic Ziploc, ready to be stashed in my carry-on bag. The airport taxi is picking me up really early tomorrow morning; there didn’t seem much value in forcing the kids to get up at that hour so the family could drive me to the airport. (Gabe was up late last night at a party, and the tantrum this morning was EPIC.) I’ll arrive in Maryland around 10:30, and then…like rocks tumbling down a mountain. I don’t know how much opportunity I’ll have to breathe until I cross the finish line Sunday around noon (hopefully).

Weather looks beautiful for the marathon:

I mean, really! Unless something changes in a massive way, I foresee a gorgeous race. Honestly, I’m not even all that nervous about the actual running part; there are so many details in the logistics of the thing, I’m convinced that the hardest part will be getting to the starting line. I’m running with a page group, which I sort of envision (never having done it before) as being sort of like a running club, which always makes things more pleasant for me. The main physical stuff I experienced in May, I’m hoping to ward off by bringing Biofreez and Ibuprofen with me in my fuel belt. And then, of course, there’s the fact that this is reputed to be One Spectacular Course. I know Washington D.C., and it always takes my breath away, and seeing it on the run, surrounded by race-day excitement? I can’t wait!

So, in case I don’t get opportunity to be near a computer between now and then, wish me luck! My bib number is #9892, and you’ll be able to see results on the Marine Corps Marathon web site. If you’re local, come cheer for me!