I am five days away from my 33rd birthday. Six days away from running my first marathon. My tapering has been a weird mix of excitement, anticipation, fear and feeling generally unsettled. Today’s three mile run was ok, but my legs definitely felt like tree trunks. Saturday’s six mile run was a lot better. I tackled the south of Grand hills one last time before race morning. It’s pretty cool seeing all the signs up for the closed marathon course.

Last week I had an allergy test done and have discovered that I’m mildly allergic to a lot of things, including: cats and dogs, three of the four pollens in Iowa, both kinds of dust mites, beef, milk and tomatoes. I go in and discuss my treatment options with the specialist tomorrow. I’m a little nervous about that as I would like to have a day where I’m not stuffy and cloggy, but the idea of having to get two shots once a week for three years or more sounds…not fun and expensive. I will know more tomorrow.

I just need to keep reminding myself that I’m ready for the marathon. I have put the miles in. I need to trust my training. I have started hydrating like a mo fo today as the morning is forecasted in the low 50s but has a high in the upper 60s. That is stupid hot for a fall marathon is all I’m saying. But then again, last year was similar for the half marathon. Only this year I am better prepared, trained, hydrated and running for Oiselle. Head up, wings out!