So I'm going to run the San Francisco Marathon. This will be my first marathon and I don't mind telling you I'm a-scared about it. It's not the running part that concerns me. I know it will be a tremendous challenge, but my training is on-track and I believe I will have time, with continued training, to get prepared to run the 26 miles, 385 yards. It will be grueling, but I expect that.

The part that concerns me is how to actually participate in a marathon. What to wear. Race etiquette. How to use a water station. Where/when/if peeing occurs. Registration. Parking. I'm afraid there'll be some important thing that I simply won't think of, since I've never done this before.

There was the option to train with a team--and the team works out the logistical stuff together--but all of those training groups run on Saturdays, which isn't really my schedule. So I'm training alone, and worrying.

I have a couple of books on the subject, so maybe that will help. What I wish I had was a mentor. Maybe someone who's running the SF Marathon this year.

If anyone knows anyone who's a Marathoner.... send them my way.