My original plan for this 'What Was I Thinking' series was to have the conclusion of my running of the Boston Marathon story coincide with the actual Boston Marathon.  Unfortunately, since I had my two month hiatus from AR, I missed that opportunity.  The Boston Marathon was held about two weeks ago.  So, I've decided to run a 365 part series to be concluded at next years marathon.  (No ... not really)

It has been awhile since part ten so for my benefit (to remind me where I was) and for your benefit (to remind you were I was), I thought that I'd delve back into the story by recapping the first ten installments.  Here it is in the Cliff Notes version.

Part one - In the Beginning: I decided to get healthy and out of shape (out of the oval shape).  This tends to happen in early January each year. To un-oval, I run three miles every few days until my motivation wears off.  I don't like to run and I needed something to keep me motivated.  (Little did I know it would all end in tears & pain)

Part two - Goodbye Reality: My mind played tricks on me and I decided to run the Boston Marathon to raise money for our local synagogue, my goal was $1000 in pledges per mile I complete.  That should keep me motivated!  This happened in January 2006, three months before the race.

Part three - The Point of No Return: I actually managed to get an entry number into the Boston Marathon and reality hit.  I'm going to run the Boston Marathon!!

Part four - Super Dave: I consult with my running friend, Dave, who has run numerous marathons.  We drink a few pints and discuss the fine art of marathon running and we come up with my plan.

Part five - My Follow Through: I buy sneakers and create a training schedule.

Part six - The Rise of Marathon Martin: A small committee is formed to discuss how I am going to reach the $1000 in sponsorships per mile.  Marathon Martin is created and a plan is formed.

Part seven - Doctor, Doctor, Give Me the News: Before I am allowed to continue, I have to visit my doctor for confirmation that I'm healthy enough to do this.  He also consults with me about my knee that has been paining me after some small runs.

Part eight - Train, Train, Train: The training continues and I start to hit the big mileage.

Part nine - Show Me the Money: The fundraising continues and I start to hit the big dollars.

Part ten - Double Trouble: After running the last 14 miles of the actual marathon route, both of my knees start to hurt.  A few days after the run, I am not able to complete small one and two mile runs.  It's time to see the doctor again.

Stay tuned for What Was I Thinking (Part Twelve)  .... soon... I promise!