A week from today is the big day. The 15K I’ve been looking forward to (or maybe dreading…) is almost upon us. Now it’s time for tapering and preparing and possibly freaking out a little.

I can’t believe it’s almost here. I feel like it’s been forever since I signed up for it. I’ve been working hard to towards this since November, so I should be ready. Why don’t I feel ready??

Last week was my final long run before the race. It was a total of 10 miles, 7.75 of which was actual running. Or at least what I consider running. Other people may consider it jogging. Or somehow walking with both feet off the ground at one time. Whatever. The important part is I finished. And I think I learned a lot about what to expect next Saturday.

First of all, chafing is REAL, y’all. Like, Oh Em Gee. They weren’t kidding about that part of it. I scurried myself right over to the running store to buy some body glide stuff. That should make next Sunday much better.

I also realized that I need more fuel if I’m going to run that far. As a very slow runner, a 15K is going to take a long time. I went a little crazy at the running store buying some different energy things – gels, beans, sports drinks. I need to try them out, but I’m scared! I’ve heard all kinds of horror stories. I don’t think it would be a good idea to try them for the first time during the race, so I’ll need to figure that part out.

Last, and most importantly, I realized that I can do it. I know it sounds cheesy, but I needed that long run to convince me. I’ve been working towards this for a long time, and on Saturday, I get to prove to myself that it was all worth it.

Besides, there will be chocolate at the end, and isn’t that worth running for??