I was so very excited this fall as I had 3 marathons slated and would be qualified to get into the “Marathon Maniacs” club. I knew it would be tough to stay focused, but I had the determination. Going into Chicago Marathon on October 11, I actually felt more fresh than the Air Force Marathon, just 3 weeks earlier. However, recovering from that race and the stress of the new puppy has taken a toll on my body. I have recently fallen ill, which is a sign that my immune system is weak and although, my body may feel “recovered”, I just may not be ready for another full so soon. I have accepted the fact that I may be pushing myself to hard to run The Richmond Marathon. However, if it hadn’t been for the race in Richmond, then I probably wouldn’t have planned a long over due trip to visit my sister, nephew, and niece who live there. I know that there was a reason I felt the urge to sign up for the race even though it may not have been to run it. After all, there will always be another race, another marathon, but only one me. Today, I choose to listen to my body and take care of me.

Happy Running!