harder than I thought

First of all, I promise I won't make this a running blog. 
Of all the 40 year goals I made, I'm beginning to think that the 1/2 marathon will be the most difficult.  I've been running for about a year, and for months was going about 4-5 miles at least 3x a week.  I reached over 8 miles on my quest for a 1/2 marathon last year, but my knees just couldn't take it.  So I dropped back.  After Thanksgiving, I stopped all together for a few months break during the coldest part of the year so my knees could have a break.  I read about running and have learned how to modify my gait to reduce wear and tear on my knees.  So, last week, I went running.  Only 2 1/2 miles.  My IT band killed.  I was in pain all day and the next.  So discouraging!!  I was really wondering if I would be able to make my goal.  Stretch, rest, running again Monday.  2 miles, but not too painful, and no lingering pain.  Stretch, stretch, rest, running this morning (on the treadmill, too cold outside!).  2 miles, no pain.  OK, there's hope again.  I have an appointment with a trainer at our new Herriman Rec. Center (B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L. place!  So excited to have a family pass!!) for tomorrow night.  She is a runner, has a degree in health sci., and is a track coach.  I'm hoping she can give me some pointers on strength training and cross training and some ideas for stretching and helping my IT band.  Not sure which 1/2 to aim for yet.  I'll have to see how things go for a bit longer before I commit to the 13.1 miles. But I'm very hopeful.  Wish me luck.