I was still hoping to run at least a 5K this summer, just as a starting effort, and I can still run that far, but I haven't been arsed to search and sign up for one yet. Congrats on your progress though! A full on marathon is one of the most intimidating challenges I can think of.
What does "trying out Starting Strength" mean? Good luck with the 5k, it doesn't matter the distance, it's just fun to be amongst a fellowship of runners and to push yourself. Also, good luck with your summer research.
And thanks, dunno if publishing will happen, but I enjoy the work very much, and that's all that matters to me for now!
I did a video program called p90x and it was pretty intense. -Too intense to be sustainable as a long term lifestyle. That's why I quit. I really should get back in to it from a more realistic standpoint. It's really, really good for you. I've recently begun listening to more pastoral music while running and I actually prefer it. The runners high comes with or without the music. As for the publishing -sounds like you have the right approach. It really is all about enjoying the process. When you do that, good things tend to happen.