Five days to go!

In many ways I really can't believe I'm properly into the final stages of marathon preparation. Months ago when I got the phone call and swiftly accepted the place, late April seemed like an absolute age away. Even at Christmas it still seemed a long way off, yet all too quickly it's days away and I've somehow got to run a bloody marathon in just five days (and one of them is almost over!)

I wanted to sit and get this blog out before I go into full marathon prep panic mode because I want to do it well, it's a post I've been making mental notes and planning ever since that day back in October. It's my thank you post.

First and foremost, I need to thank Girlguding for giving me the opportunity to run the London Marathon, something thousands of people each year dream of doing. But not just that, and perhaps more importantly I want to thank all the women I've met throughout my life as a "Girl Guide" many of whom have been fantastic influences on me. Regularly when the training has been tough I've thought about them and in particular how amazingly proud I know Nita would have been of me for taking on this challenge. Thinking fondly back on many of the memories - especially from the sunny August weeks spent in a tent at Walesby Forest - has also provided me with some good giggles to keep me going.

Next is anyone who has been to the fundraising events in the lead up to the big day. Everyone who braved the Baltic Yorkshire temperatures back in December at Bleak House Farm for the fabulous horse gala, it was a lovely day despite the chill and everyone was so wonderfully generous and kind. Then there was the hugely fun Race Night at the Venue where once again the pockets were deep and this time the beer flowed, thank you for coming along to support my cause - I hope you had as much fun as I did!

And speaking of The Venue, thank you to Sandra, Ness and Tony for letting me have the event and for your kind donation, I'll be wearing that logo with pride on Sunday and I can't wait to show off my medal next time I'm in! And thanks in general to all the "pub lot" for your continual support and encouragement.

Also on my vest on Sunday is WriteOn - thank you Jo and the rest of the team for your support, it truly means a lot!

Then there's Wastecycle. The logo is on my vest in anticipation of a donation once my finishing time has been confirmed - £5 for every minute sub 6hrs is a great motivator! And thank you to my fantastic colleagues who have brought cakes, books and taken part in the sweepstake, it's great to know you're behind me!

My fantastic running club has been invaluable during the training. Through their knowledge, advice and continual humour they've been an absolute God-send. I'd love to name you all but I know I'd forget someone so just know that I'm truly greatful to you all for everything you've done and said to help me - and the kind sponsors are a bonus! We are without a doubt the friendliest and best running club around!

Thank you to everyone who has read, liked, shared and commented on my blog and social media posts. In particular my wonderful and supportive bunch of Aunties, I'm so lucky to have you! No matter how much I post people have a positive reaction which has kept me reassured that I'm not being too much of a marathon spammer.

On the subject of marathon spamming, a special thank you has to go to the lovely Sarah Bryan, my work bestie who sits with me for 40 hours a week. I'm sure she must be sick to death of hearing about running but she does nothing except listen, smile and give me some of the best words of support I receive.

Huge huge thank you to everyone who has donated! I've absolutely smashed my target ad I couldn't have done that without each and every one of you, thank you!

And finally there's Mum, Dad, Des, Simon and Katie.

When I say I couldn't have done it without you lot I absolutely mean it. For everything you've all done and your continual support in every way there aren't words to thank you enough. I promise I'll try not to be too mardy or stroppy in the last few hours before the marathon. I can't promise I won't moan after though...

This is it then. My next post will be the race write up... here it goes!!