So, this was a really hard decision to make and is hard to post on here, but after careful consideration and going back and forth on various things, I ended up having my application cancelled. Between the cost of the race itself and looking up costs for hotels, I determined that the best thing for me at this time was not to participate in 2018. A full marathon is still my goal for the year, but I decided that I’d rather participate in the Lakefront Marathon in Milwaukee (which is the same day as Chicago). I don’t have to commit as far in advance, the registration fee will be lower, and it is local so I won’t have to pay for a hotel. The idea of being in the comforts of home the night before my potential first marathon was a really big deal to me. So I’m sad to miss out on a potential meet, but good luck to all of you!