This is my attempt to get back into pre-baby shape and ring in the big 3-5 with a bang, or rather with 26.2 miles. Just as training for my first half marathon taught me a lot about myself (for example, it taught me that not only was I capable of running 13.1 miles in a row, but that I love doing it), I'm sure this experience will be as educational as it will be challenging. Thanks for sharing in my journey with me . . .

My ultimate running playlist

This will be an evolving list as I hear songs on my runs that inspire me to go faster (or just to keep going) . . .

"Lose Yourself" -- Eminem
"It's My Life" -- Bon Jovi
"Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" -- Beyonce
" F&$k You" -- CeeLo Green
"Holiday" -- Green Day
"Wannabe" -- Spice Girls
"Shoop" -- Salt N Pepa
"Poison" -- Bell Biv Devoe
"Ob La Di, Ob La Da" -- The Beatles
"Paradise City" -- Guns N Roses
"Summertime" -- New Kids on the Block
"Seven Nation Army" -- White Stripes
Anything by the Dixie Chicks or Justin Timberlake