indecision...

.. is no more. As many of you know, I ran the 2006 Chicago Marathon with less than an ideal outcome. Halfway through the 18 weeks of training, I developed SI joint problems in my back and was simultaneously training for the race and going thru physical therapy and on meds. How sick and twisted is that? The race was difficult and painful for me, but I didn't regret it one single bit. I had so much encouragement and support from friends and family and crossing the finish line, albeit in tears, truly did change my life and gave me confidence.

Since then, I've been content with shorter races-- 5Ks, Soldier Field 10 Miler, half marathons. Every year, for about a few weeks in October, I toy with the idea of giving the "big dance" another shot. This mostly happens when I'm prowling the Expo with Teresa, who is-- hands down-- the best runner I know and a truly awesome friend. Then the marathon comes and goes and I get "cured" of my ambitions.

But for some reason this year, the nagging thought of "should I try again?" didn't go away. And for months now I've gone back and forth in my mind. I'm several years more experienced with running. Yeah, but, I'm also several years older. Indecision is not my style. What's up?

I've talked to Teresa about it, who repeats the refrain "10-10-10" (the date of the race). I've talked to John about it. He'll support and love me no matter what. I talked to my chiropractor about it, who sadly informed me that he doesn't have a crystal ball and has no idea how well (or poorly) my less than perfect anatomy will react. I've talked with my sisters. One thinks I'm crazy. One might want to do it with me. I talked to my mom, who is a big-time marathon fan. She's all for it.

But ultimately it comes down to me. Do I have the motivation and determination to go through what I know will be a tough road? Do I want it bad enough? No doubt I'll have the support from loved ones. I have that in spades-- it's the only thing that's a given here. Yes. No. Do it. Don't.

Today registration opened. I thought about that as soon as I woke up. I still didn't know what to do. I went to work and worked for about an hour or so. Then something in my mind just clicked. I dunno. Can't explain it. I went to the marathon's website and registered. I'm in. For better or for worse. John was the first person I told. Then Teresa. Nick. Candace. Joe. Mom. Debi. Dawn. Facebook friends. Now the blogosphere.

I'm pretty excited.