Change of Attitude

When I initially thought of joining a team in training event, I wasn't really concerned (or all that aware of) the marathon location. As I learned more about New Orleans, it sounded like as good a place as any to run 26.2 miles. Of course, all that changed dramatically when Katrina hit, and I was really looking forward not only to raising money to fight AIDS, but also to bring some business back to this city.

One week exactly after training started, BIG disappointment! We were notified that the marathon is changing locations...to Miami, Florida. Understandably, the AIDS marathon hotel contract was cancelled to allow for FEMA relief workers, and there is speculation that the actual Mardi Gras Marathon will not go on as planned. Therefore, the AIDS marathon corporate headquarters decided to act now and find us a new place to run our miles. I spent the last few days trying to get over it, and to become excited about Miami (remember, we'll be training during a DC winter, then running a marathon in 75 degree weather with humidity - wasn't that the reason I chose not to do a spring/summer training program?). Plus, for those of you who know about my water phobia, a major portion of this race is near, next to, and over water. On bridges (who knew there were so many?). Over a whole lot of water. And sharks. Pre-race therapy needed, maybe?

So, enough whining, I'm moving on...and hopefully you are moving along with me. Normally, my pace group will meet on Saturdays, but this weekend, I decided to run the Alexandria Gulf Coast Relief 5k with my friend Marisa. Put together in less than two weeks, it was not ideal racing conditions, but over 3,000 people showed up and raised over $100,000! I have no idea what our times were, or if we were, in fact, even running. My description would be more like, jog, stall, hop, watch out - baby jogger, wait, are those the fast runners? Running directly at us? Oops, the course didn't allow for so many people. As I passed Starbucks, I thought about running in, grabbing a frappucino, and getting right back in the crowd. Probably wouldn't have lost much time. But, it was all about the cause, and it was fun seeing James Carville, Mary Matalin, and Alan Webb (under 4 minute mile man) hanging out with the locals.

I joined Sunday's pace group, which turned out ok since half of us were actually the Saturday group in disguise (all part of the 3,000 runners mentioned above). Only 4 miles today, with lots of enthusiasm and a pretty fast pace. The best part, MAGIC SOCKS!!!!! Katie, if you are reading this...you were right, they ARE awesome. Designed specifically for a left foot and a right foot to help prevent blisters. Those combined with a half size larger shoe, my poor, ugly feet problems have almost disappeared!

Last, a big thank you to all who have donated to this cause. I also appreciate the emails, phone calls, and blog messages. As my family is used to me saying, "I can't change the entire world, but I can make a difference every day." With all of you out there supporting me, I know that this is completely true!!!