26.2 Miles of Smiles

As the sun brims the eastern horizon on Sunday morning 10.10.10, over 40,000 runners will be funneling onto Columbus Drive anxiously awaiting the start of the 2010 Chicago Marathon. The loud speakers will roar – instilling a resolute patriotism in those of us proud to be deemed American - as the national anthem rings through the ears of those of us about to embark on a 26.2 mile trek though Chicago’s magnificent miles.

I wonder what the results would be if each participant’s heart rate was checked at the final moments before the noise piercing start gun goes off. What would those numbers look like?

This year, as the weather report inevitably does every time I run the Chicago marathon (2007, 2008, now 2010), the temperature projections just keep on climbing. Apparently Mother Nature seems to think those of us who trained in the heat this summer didn’t quite get enough of it!

Regardless of the impending heat, the theme of this year’s run is 26.2 miles of smiles - finding your happy pace. – And after all, what could be better than having your sister along for the ride as well?

When I started this blog, I mentioned that my hope was to inspire someone to get up and find their happy pace. What I didn't realize at the time is that person would be one of my life mentors - in front of me the whole time- my sister. It must have been about time to return the favor, and as we approach race day, I couldn't be more proud of my big sister. Go, Megan, go!

With less than 72 hours to go, I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your support. A huge thank you to Graber Orthodontics for the generous charitable support to Girls on the Run Chicago, Imerman Angels, and the fantastic donation of over 20 supporting spectator shirts.
Keep your eyes peeled for post race blogs!

As training comes to a close, I am thrilled to announce that the Graber sisters have raised over $1600 combined for Imerman Angels (a one-on-one cancer support non-profit for cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers) and Girls on the Run Chicago (a volunteer mentor program geared towards instilling health of mind and body for girls ages 8 - 14). If you have not had an opportunity to donate, and would like to, please see the links below to support - All donations are appreciated:

Girls on the Run Chicago-

http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2011/girlontherunchicago

Imerman Angels

http://www.firstgiving.com/megangraber

Thanks for reading - hope to see you on the road!

I know I run like a girl. Try to keep up!