Whenever I prepare to run an official race I ask myself two very important questions. What am I going to wear? What will I drink to celebrate this accomplishment?

I am currently training for the 31st annual Napa Valley Marathon. I cannot complain. I live here, and as far as beautiful surroundings in which to train, I feel that competition has already been won.

This year I am going for a PR (I'm about an hour and a half from qualifying for Boston). I am thinking my personal record will most likely happen if I'm wearing something pink. Actually I have never run a race without it. While I am in love with the Nike Dri-FIT seamless running shirt in raspberry, I'm open to looking for something new.

As my liquid light at the end of this tortuous tunnel, I'll be enjoying a 2006 Williams Selyem Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard Pinot Noir to accompany my celebratory carbo extravaganza of the world's best mac and cheese, which is really why I run.

Wish me luck.