I ran a marathon!!

Well, I did it! Today I completed the San Antonio Rock and Roll Marathon. 5:46:16 is my official time. I observed much and learned little during those 26.2 miles. Here's some of it:

1. People of all types run marathons and 1/2 marathons. Most of them are smelly and some of them make really strange noises.
2. It was totally worth the $100 I spent on Brooks running apparel to get their VIP Porta Potty pass. It was only at the starting line, but it was awesome.
3. I was in the VIP Porta Potty when the National Anthem was being played, signaling that the race was about to start. So, I was up by the start line and not 1/2 mile back in corral 25 where I was supposed to be. So, I just jumped in with corral #3. They were all a lot faster than me. A LOT.
4. I saw 3 things that I feel has made my marathon experience complete: A guy peeing on the side of the road, a guy with bloody nipples, and a guy puking at mile 16. Seems like the women were doing just fine.
5. I totally enjoyed running with rock bands on the course, even if they were mediocre at best.
6. Around mile 5 (or 7, or 8, I can't really remember), we ran past Central Catholic High School. They had their band out there, and their cheerleaders... and a huge blow-up rattle snake with smoke coming out of its mouth. I found myself wondering if I'm the only one who finds it highly ironic that the mascot of Central CATHOLIC High School is a SERPENT.
7. I found myself behind one gentleman in particular several times. I was able to recognize him because he was running with no shirt (which he really shouldn't have been doing anyway), and because he seemed to have a large amount of stuff in the pocket on the back of his shorts, which caused them to drop just enough with every step that I became almost mesmerized by the crack, crack, crack, crack...
8. It is GREAT running with spectators who have funny signs, are cheering you on and offering you candy. I would like to ask for some volunteers to be spectators at my 4am runs. Anyone? Anyone?
9. The most popular sign seemed to be: Run like you stole something. Amusing only about the first 3 times.
10. My favorite sign: Running takes balls. Other sports just play with them.
11. What MORON thought it a good idea to make mile 26 to 26.1 UPHILL??
12. I'm not sure I'll ever run another full marathon. Definitely 1/2 marathons. But full marathons hurt. A lot.
13. I felt fine until about mile 18. Miles 22 through 25 were the hardest. I pulled out some strength the last mile. Not sure where that came from.
14. It was only because of my husband that I found the strength to sprint to the finish. Seeing him at the end was the best part.
15. I couldn't have done this without the support and encouragement from my family and all my wonderful friends! Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!
16. I can finally put that 26.2 sticker on my car!!