That Third Bite

Morgan at Caution: Redhead Running has a interesting post today.  She questioned how your second marathon training went in comparison to the first.

My question is, pace aside, how was your first marathon experience compared to your second, third...

I equate the experience to eating.  I ran my first 3 marathons within 6 weeks of each other. 

For me, the first was like that first bite of dessert.  I am so eager to have it that I barely tasted it. 

The second marathon was that second bite.  Again rushed and hurried, as if someone would take it away if I did not have it quickly.  

Then there were a few weeks between the second and the third marathon.  Those weeks remind me of how I try to eat those things I like but do not nutritionally need.  

That third bite. 

I take time to think about whether or not I actually want to have more or need to have more.  Then after some consideration I take that third bite.  I enjoy the taste of the treat I am savoring.  That was my third marathon.  A savored treat!  I enjoyed the first two.  There is nothing like the accomplishment of completing a marathon however, between the nerves and self doubt I was a wreck at the starting line.  It wasn't until the third marathon that I was able to look around instead of at my watch.  I was able to know that the finish line was coming and I would see it. 

I still get nervous at the starting line.  I still have moments of self doubt when it's been awhile between races or I try something new; like the Greenway Trail Marathon on 8 weeks of training.  But now the marathon distance and I are old friends who challenge each other from time to time.  I show him (yes, my marathon distance is a man) respect by getting my training miles ran come rain or snow or jogging stroller full of unhappy kiddos.  He shows me new levels of accomplishment within myself  when he throws in more hills or a completely flat course (ugh!).  

Was what was your second, third, fourth marathon experience like compared to your first?