I'd be lying if I didn't say I had a 'goal' in mind for race. I did want to race well but I would have been happy with anything under 4 hours. At the expo they were handing out pace bracelets that were specific to the Boston course, so I decided to grabbed one. The pace bracelet I chose was a 3:20 marathon. I didn't really think I could do that but I thought at least this way I could use it as a guide thinking my paces would be a bit slower and that I could at least run a 3:30. They say to be conservative on the Boston course and don't go out too fast b/c you need to save yourself for the hills in the second half. I generally run all my races with the thought in mind that I am going to 'try' to maintain the same pace throughout the entire race. Looking back my first half was fast...and I maybe should have held back a bit but I think it worked out ok for me. The spectators were awesome! There was hardly a moment go by that someone was screaming! I loved EVERY MOMENT of it.

My legs were really feeling it on the downhill after Heart Break Hill. Overall I would say the downhills were much harder on me than the uphills. The last mile seemed long but I think it's b/c I was just ready to be done!

Nothing. I ran my race and I felt I did my best. It was an AWESOME experience and I am very proud of myself! My first Boston Marathon was definately a day I will never forget!

As soon as I crossed the finish line I felt exhausted and my legs felt horrible. We had to keep walking through the line as they have everything figured out. They keep you moving, give you water, remove your chip, give your medal, then you warming blanket, then food. I could barely walk but I think it actually helped me in the long run to continue to move. Andrea found me at the end when we were picking up our race bags. I was SO glad to see her.

After the race we found our way of the runner area to find our significant others. I was EXCITED to see Scott!! He gave me a big hug which completed my race day perfectly!