From Within Training for the 2012 Boston Marathon: April 15 ***5K Race and Final Day Before Big Race *** Boston 2012

Well, Marathon Weekend is coming to a close. So much to do and see. This morning was the BAA 5k. Ian and I ran a nice easy pace along a very historic route finishing at the same finish line I will cross when I finish the marathon. I love running that race with him. Its a great thing for us to do together. Both of us had a great time. John was on the sidelines cheering us on and the best part was, at the end of the race and in the middle of a huge crowd, we found each other right away. Now, that was amazing.

Caught up with Ashley and her mom today. We took them to the North side, had lunch and stopped at Mike's Pastry shop. Ian and I had to get the traditional red velvet moon pie for after the race. It is so good. But, I will have to wait til after the 26.2 to eat it. Darn!

Went back to the Expo to buy a singlet. Ugh! The weather keeps climbing and I decided that I needed a cooler shirt, so off we went. Ian was thrilled...not really, but he was a trooper and kept a good attitude. While at the Expo ran into Meb again and got another high five. That guy is so cool. Then stopped by the Brooks area and saw Desi Davila (2nd place finisher at the US Olympic Marathon Trials and 2nd woman at Boston last year). Found a cooler shirt, watched the marathon route video one more time and finally...headed back to the hotel.

Had a huge pasta dinner and a grilled chicken breast for some protein. Everything is laid out, bib on, Charlie Card ready and its almost time for bed.

The projected weather for the race is 88 degrees. Very hot. The race directors are giving runners a chance to pull out and run next year. Me, I'm going to run smart and finish this race. It might not be my fastest but it will be my smartest race I have ever run.

I want to thank everyone who has logged miles with me on this journey. To my Wolf Pack...you are amazing and wonderful friends. To those of you that worked out with me at the pool or at the courts, I am very grateful. To all of you at the track workouts, on the path, giving me advice, texting me inspiring message or posting on my wall, thank you. To my coach Susanne Davis, thanks for showing me what hard work really is. To my friends Jennie and Sari, thanks for being there when I needed you most. To my wonderful husband and family that I love so dearly, you are my rock and I can never express how much your support means to me. And, to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, thank you for giving me the strength to train and the health to make it this far. I am truly blessed.