Hopeful for 2012 season

OK, it's been a while again since my last post but not quite 6 months...
After building my base in December through February, I added my first few intensity workouts venturing into higher HR zones, around and above my lactate balance point. I had noticed dramatic changes in my HR zones early in the year due to 2 consistent seasons with extensive base building. I saw the most obvious HR change comparing my profiles from the Pacific Road Runners First Half Marathon 2011 and 2012. I ran over a minute faster in 2012 with a much lower average HR. Cool!
A renewed lactate balance point test with Jen Segger (Challenge by Choice) confirmed significant changes. I was running the same paces as 18 months ago with an HR of 10-15 beats lower on average. My lactate balance point had moved up slightly (from 154 to 157). Based on these results, I adjusted my zones and training paces.
Less than a week prior to the BMO April Fool's Half Marathon I decided to give that race a shot. With a few fellow runners from Squamish, I made the trip to the Sunshine Coast on April 1st. I did not have any expectations but wanted to give it all, secretly hoping for a 1:25. I started out a little fast as I got sucked along with other keen runners charging out of the gate. I decided to go for it and hang on. In the worst case, I would drop off and slow down on the last few KM, so what. Despite the rolling yet fast course, I was able to hold a steady pace and effort making sure I did not become lactic on the uphills. I was able to push to the finish in 1:24:44, a great time for me and one of my fastest in the last few years.
This result makes me hopeful for the BMO Vancouver Marathon on May 6th. I have been consistent in doing my "speed work" and adding mileage. I am still in need of 2 long runs in the range of 35K. It is going to be tight but I have a shot at sub-3 hours in Vancouver. I have done other long session on skis and bike - I hope that helps somewhat.
I have seen good signs... quick recovery after intense workouts, ability to do back-to-back long workouts, hardly any tiredness after the Half Marathon etc.
My mind is ready and my body should be, too.
Fingers crossed!