OK, so I haven't done any running since about 1979, but what the heck, I signed up for the Seattle Marathon held on Nov 30.
This gives me about 9 1/2 weeks.  (quick flash back to 1986 Phoenix AZ)
Before signing up and 
committing myself, I did two short runs around the neighborhood at a nice slow pace.  Mona joined me on the second run.  I didn't have any trouble running 20min without stopping so I went out an bought a pair of running shoes.
This morning I ran to work.  It is about 2 miles and took me about 30min.
I feel fine, we will see how things are after I run home.