Woohoo!  I know you already know this, but I have to say it anyway, make sure to take it easy when you get back out there. 

It's best to never get injured, but if you do, make sure you learned something from it. What did you learn?

Soon little one soon!!LOL

Hilary, I think you have probably gained some good perspective through this tough time.

Honestly I didn't run a real race until I had been running for 3 years and it was a half marathon (did the Race

for the Cure 5k in my first year but it was more of a charity/girls thing for me).

 I am actually grateful I had those 3 years where I was running simply because I loved running and it was fun.

I didn't know any other runners, didn't know anything about running message boards or racing.

Now after almost 10 years of racing I can honestly say that when my races days (or days of racing 10+ times/year

and marathons) come to and end that I will still love running for it's own sake. When that day comes I will change

my siggy to "Racing, who cares?"LOL

I hope when you come back you are running well and pain free.

You too Mandy!