I’ve been training for the Akron Marathon since I ran the Cleveland half in May. So far my long runs have been 9,11, and 12 miles (I did the 12 miler all by myself in Sandusky 2 weeks ago…which was huge for me). I’m on this schedule (which I modified to include two 20 mile runs) and it’s been a challenge, but I can really feel the difference it’s making in my training. The longer mid-week run makes my Saturday long run feel less daunting, and my speed has been increasing…bonus. Tomorrow calls for 14 miles…the longest consecutive run I have had to date (I ran a total of 16-17 the day of the Cleveland half, but it was broken up into my 13.1 followed by a rest of an hour or so before running with my friend for her last 3-4 to the finish…so that’s technically not the same). I thinks it’s the fact that this is unchartered territory for me…that I’m pushing my body to a point it hasn’t been at before. I know I can do it. I just need to believe it. My friends have been amazing sources of support for me. They call to check on my progress, they wake up at ridiculous hours of the morning to run with me, they give up their Saturday mornings to put in mileage that takes you nowhere but gets you to a place only a runner understands…they are the best. I’ll let you know how it goes…but if you happen to wake up between 6:30 and 9 tomorrow…send some positive thoughts my way…I think I’m going to need them.