Should I Run Naked? and Other Random Thoughts

After 2015's Los Angeles Marathon, I made the impulse decision to sign up for 2016's.  At the time, it felt like such a long time off and now it's only a week away!  As my first marathon quickly approaches, here are some of my random thoughts, in no particular order.

What was I thinking?
Who runs 26.2 miles for fun?!  Oh, wait, that's right.  A lot of people do.  And after next Sunday, I will be one of those people.  I'm excited and I can't wait to cross the finish line!

Should I run naked?

By naked, I mean without my GPS watch.  I'm one of those runners who lets my time/pace get into my head.  And not in a good way.  It's my first marathon, which means automatic PR.  I'm worried that if I wear my watch, I'll let it get in my head and it won't be as fun as an experience for me.  And as my first marathon, I want to enjoy every 26.2 miles of it!

I wish my mom could be there.

There's no doubt that when my mom passed away a year and a half ago, it turned my world upside down.  She was always my biggest supporter and biggest fan.  She loved hearing about my race adventures and loved seeing my medals.  She was always the first person I called after a race.  And this is one of the first milestones in my life she won't be there for.  So I'll run for her.  And I imagine at some point in the race, there will be tears.  I just want to make her proud of me.  

What should I wear?

I have my socks picked out. I have my skirt picked out.  But now the dilemma of which tank and sports bra to wear.  And what accessories to wear.  I like to be #runmatchy, so once all those things are decided, I'll be able to pick out my KTTape color.   And then I'll plan my back-up outfit, in case something doesn't workout on race day.  

I know some amazing people!

My journey to get to my first marathon has been supported by so many people.  It's been a humbling experience-- from those who have run with me, have shown their support through social media and all the random texts of encouragement.  It's been amazing.  I wouldn't be ready if it weren't for those people.  

What will I eat when I finish?

Who doesn't love post-race meals.  There are time when knowing I'm headed towards a good meal will help push me through the last couple of miles. For my runs in San Diego, my post-race meal is always a burrito.  So good! I'm hoping to find something equally as delicious in Los Angeles before the drive home.  

I'm ready.

I can't believe it's only a week away, but I'm ready to run my first marathon.  Let's do this LA!

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn131.1