my first marathon - considerations

I don't want a huge, crowded race with thousands of people. That makes for an exuberant atmosphere, but somehow the running diminishes in importance. We end up stumbling over each other.

I don't want sea level. This will ensure a lovely running experience, but I will never be able to improve on it.

I doesn't have to be Albuquerque, although one day I plan to run a marathon here - uphill next to the ridge of the mountains, across the southern edge of the Sandia reservation, along the valley of the Rio Grande, outlining the city in the thin desert air.

It can't be too far, since my boyfriend only flies when it's a matter of life and death. We have to be able to drive there. I ran this last year alone, but when I run my first marathon I need someone at the finish line, and they can't be grouchy.

It doesn't need to be fast. I will probably walk stretches of it. My back still feels funny sometimes, but I am working on core strength. I will be ready.