So...if you are at all close to me, you know that I have been on a diet for the past 3 months and I have now lost a total of 20 pounds. I feel quite accomplished about this, but it is nothing compared to my latest endeavor.....running a marathon.

I was first warmed up to the idea by my friend Melissa. I figured that with a proper training schedule and the proper gear (note: I bought myself $200 worth of gear) I could turn myself into a distance runner. Unfortunately, a cool outfit does not a runner make.

I ran my first significant distnace this past weekend. It totaled 8 miles. That is not a typo, friends. Brittany ran 8 miles....okay....I didn't actually run the full 8. I probably ran 6 and walked 2. This is still good, because I did finish the entire distance. Here is my fear: 8 miles is just under 1/3 the distance of a marathon. I was more than 1/3 of the way to losing consiousness after finishing.

The training book stresses that attitude is 90% of the battle, though. So, in an effort to obey the book, here are my affirmations for the day.

1. I am a marathon runner.
2. I love to run.
3. I love running up hills.
4. I love running long distances.
5. Everyone who doesn't think I will do this can kiss my ass.

I will keep everyone (okay, both of you who actually read this and give a damn) apprised of my progress.