Thanks for all the advice folks! I picked up my training again yesterday - did 3 miles in about 24 minutes, which is back to my normal speed. I am following the official training plan, and now that my shins feel a lot better, I hope to get back onto the proper distances next week.

Yup, I'm aiming for 2 hours overall, but just finishing will be nice!

I know what you mean about looking forward to it all, Mary - those long runs in new, beautiful countryside, following the beat of the music, just relaxing into it - it's such a great feeling.