The weather, and why I love my life

Summer came early to Chicago.

A few weeks ago, temps rose into the 80s. For those of you sans calendar, it's still March. For those of you who think global warning is a bunch of liberal BS ... it still March.

But I digress.

It's been gorgeous. Today it was in the 40s and everyone thought it was Armageddon. No, it was just being March. But on those yummy, warm days, I've been out there enjoying every possible moment. I'd be a fool not to.

Outdoor run at twilight? Don't mind if I do. Dinner on the patio at Peggy Kinane's? Yes please. Walk to ... oh who the hell cares, it's gorgeous? Yes, and yes. It's heaven. It changes daily, but still ... heaven.

So at the risk of writing an entire blog post that seems to be about nothing but the weather, seriously, this is awesome. I've already worn shorts. And sandals. And the nights are chilly and life is good. It isn't perfect - after all, I haven't won the lottery - but it's pretty damn nice.

And the weather is just part of it.

Fit for a Princess

I have absolute princess withdrawals.

A week ago, I was in Orlando. A year's worth of planning and execution were playing out, and all the "what-ifs" and "maybes" were about to be crushed.

My first half marathon was on the horizon.

For the record, I finished. I finished slowly, but I'm so proud that I did it. And now, I'm feeling a little let down. A little ... princess melancholy.

But the thing of it is, I did it. There are moments when I just can't believe it. It took courage to enter. It took strength to finish. I did both. If you want to read about it in depth, you can find my race report here.

And now I'm trying to decide what's next. I'm pretty sure I want to do another half marathon this year. I know I want to do two Disney half marathons next year ... and maybe three. And I know now that I can. I just need to make a decision, register and start planning.

For the moment, I need to be content with being fit for a princess.