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For some reason this week I have an added excitement that there are less than 8 weeks to the trials. The day that once seemed so far away is now so near. My excitement is by no means one of nervousness. I feel like preparation is going very well. As I add mileage and intensity, I find I crave it more and more. I love the intense preparation of the marathon.

There was a time not too long ago I committed myself to shorter races. I didn’t feel like I was capable of committing to the demands marathon preparation would bring. Before I new it, with great coaching and a supportive husband, I found myself dedicated to the marathon. Now, I consider it my distance.

The support along the way is amazing! I run in the same park almost daily. There are days when a workout might be particularly challenging. Then I hear my name called out by a fellow runner or cyclist. I find a great sense of motivation from those in my community. How fortunate I am to be surrounded by such wonderful people.

I will say winter training has been a little more of a challenge. In my past fall marathon training, I was fortunate enough to enjoy running with (really pushing) my son in the stroller. The cold winds of winter is no place for the running stroller, but I truly miss the “go mommy go” or singing ABC’s during a late afternoon run. He is my inspiration.

I am counting down for many reasons. I countdown the miles of a long run or hard workout. I countdown to the warmer spring days of stroller pushing. But most of all I am honored to countdown to the wonderful opportunity my coach and husband have provided endless support. Let the countdown begin for the 2008 Olympic Marathon Trials!

When I started to think about what I was going to write for this first blog, I really had no idea. So after pondering some ideas I settled on the weather since here in Ohio we are in the last fews weeks of winter. Spring is supposed to be coming soon but you wouldn’t know it based on our last couple of weeks. Though I really shouldn’t complain because I know many other parts of the US have had it much worse than we have. Our winter actually hasn’t been all that horrible and I have only been forced to do a few hard workouts on the treadmill. But these last few weeks of winter can be the worst because you have just had enough. So I thought I would share some of the mental tricks I use to get through the last few weeks of winter and make them more bearable.

1. Hot and steamy oatmeal. After cold morning runs like today’s I really enjoy a big bowl of steaming oatmeal and a hot cup of coffee. Knowing this is waiting on me when I finish has helped get me through many cold mornings. I am enjoying this now because hot oatmeal just isn’t as good after a run in warm weather.

2. High tech winter running gear. I know my Brooks winter gear has kept me dry and toasty in the cold weather. Right now I like to think I am getting the most out of my winter apparel because soon it will get packed away for the next winter. So if it stays cold for a little while longer just think of all the extra use you are getting out of your winter running clothes and smile as you pull on those tights and pullovers.

3. Easy nutrition practice on the treadmill. If you are forced to put in a couple more runs on the treadmills this winter, you can use it to practice your nutrition intake. Though I am not a real big fan of the treadmill it is nice to have water bottles right in front of you and you don’t have to take the extra time to stash water bottles along your route or run small loops. All you need to do is grab the bottles which are right beside you at anytime you want.

For those if you in cold weather areas, hopefully these tips will help you keep a positive mindset and enjoy these last few weeks on winter. Spring really is on the way and hopefully will be here sooner rather than later.

Stay warm!

We are excited to announce our featured bloggers. Some of the most promising prospects for the Women’s Olympic Marathon team will be sharing their lives, training and thoughts with the Running Times community through the Olympic Trials in Boston on April 20th.

Check back, as defending US Champion Ann Alyanak, New England favorite Emily LeVan, perennial contender Zoila Gomez and more show us what it takes to compete with the best marathoners our country has to offer.