What a difference a year makes

This time last year, I was about to run my very first half marathon. (My race recap from last year)  The race was at the end of October and I started getting jittery on October 1st. The week before I barely slept. I stopped drinking alcohol two weeks before and downing water every chance I got to be sure I was sufficiently hydrated. I ran every mile of my training plan. I made a list of all the paraphernalia I needed to bring. Tested my race outfit on two long runs. My playlist was full.  Every scenario I could think of, I practiced; without music, on an empty stomach, on a full stomach, tired legs, etc. I knew my goal time and my splits. When I'm nervous, I over-prepare.

As of today, my first half of the fall season is 5 days out. I'm not nearly as prepared as I would like to be.  It's not like I slacked on my training. I just cut back to let my ITBand rest. But I got in a few decent length runs. Still, I may have to walk this one. My garmin and ipod have not made it to the charger yet. But I have Gu and my water bottle is in the freezer. Not sure what I'm wearing yet or if 60deg weather warrants a jacket. All this lack of preparation and I'm not freaking out. And, I'm sleeping just fine.

The  difference is that I know what to expect. Racing is old hat now. The Louisiana Half on Sunday will be my 4th half. I know I can do it. I know my legs can get me to the end. I know I can push self-doubt into a small corner into my mind and ignore it. And above all, I know I will finish. Plus, there's bling waiting for me.

I guess the difference is that I'm excited not nervous.