Marathon Training Update

I am always hesitant to post anything related to this marathon training, afraid to "jinx" the ease of the training thus far. However, it's gone well and no matter what happens from here on out, I'm confident we will make it to the start line on December 13!
I always get a lot of questions about how I train, what plan I follow, etc- some of you guys think I know what I am doing, I really have no idea :) I simply run, and try to make each run productive. I don't do "junk" miles, what mom with 2 little ones has time for "junk" miles?! Not I.  I don't follow a plan created by a marathon master, my husband creates a little excel sheet with a rough training plan and I loosely follow that.  My runs are dictated by my two little bosses- when they are happy, tired, well, and more all plays into when/if our runs happen.  
Despite all of the uncertainties of training, it has actually gone really well. Now, I am NOWHERE near the speed I used to be, a PR is certainly out of the question this time around. Speed work will go into the equation if we have a "next time".  I have managed to avoid injuries, and am recovering remarkably well. I ran 18 miles last Saturday, and was able to pick up on Monday with a 9 miler pushing the girls in the jogger. I don't feel like I am over-training, so maybe I have found my mileage sweet spot.  
I would not post this if it really was not what I feel is my secret to recovery and injury prevention- ESSENTIAL OILS. I am not kidding, once again they are amazing. I take an epsom salt bath with oils post long runs, use a massage oil after every run and keep my Achilles lathered up to prevent injury there- it got tender when I started increasing mileage, however the pain has almost completely disappeared. Seriously amazing. Here's a little glimpse into my favorites. If you need these (if you are active at all, I promise you do) let me know :)

I was hesitant to train with my girls being so little, but I am glad I accepted the challenge. I love the conversations and sing-a-longs we have on our runs and hope they accept physical activity as a norm in their own lives. I don't feel like I spend unnecessary time away from them logging miles, they get special time with Lance on the weekend while I get a long run and quiet time, which is therapy for a mama! I am anxious to get over the 20 miler hump and see what this marathon has in store!