We Ran...

A long way. Let's recap.

Of course I set all my stuff up the night before. Prep is key for a 5:20 wakeup call.

Hello, post race party ticket. Made sure that bad boy was on nice and secure. I was so glad to get an even number. Odd numbers...not my thing.

We were blessed with perfect running weather. Chilly at the start, but great temps once you got out on the course. Bright blue sunny skies didn't hurt either. After firing off the starting gun, U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name" sent us off. Reason #428 I love this race.

Highlights:

1. Runners racing for a local runner who tragically died on a morning run training for the race.

2. Runners racing for the Bell Center.

3. Great crowd support. Particularly loved the "You're not last!" and "Don't walk now, people are watching" posters.

4. My past self -who in some stroke of good sense I can't remember- had the wisdom to put "Good Vibrations" by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch in my running mix. Fantastic surprise at mile 3.

Lowlights:

1. Miles 9-13. Ouch. Consider the price of running the first 9 too fast paid. In full.

2. Smokers. I don't grab you and force you to run the race, so please don't BLOW YOUR SMOKE DIRECTLY INTO THE PATH OF ONCOMING RUNNERS. Rant over.

I sent MS ahead at mile 9, as my legs began to feel remarkably similar to concrete. He PR'd at 1:56 and some change. I was so proud of him! It's such a great feeling when all those early dark, cold runs pay off on race day. Also, I think the bulldog shirt he sported brought good luck.

I finished a couple minutes behind him and was ready to hit the booth of my favorite race sponsor - Michelob Ultra. I'm not sure a cold beer has ever tasted so good. Ever.

We ran into some friends with the same idea. This was their first half and they did awesome! I'm so glad to have some more running friends!

MS and the twins had the same math teacher in high school. She was running the half too, and scheduled to meet up. Added up to equal a great photo op.

First married Mercedes half! Beating a dead horse here, but I love that we can run together. Makes it so much more fun!

We got back to the apartment and decided to walk downstairs and watch the marathoners pass. Of course, Namath wanted to cheer them on too.

He was unimpressed. He's not much for distance running. More of a sprinter.

This was the water/banana/orange/gummy bear stop at mile 25. Cannot. fathom. this. It was so cool to see them run by and cheer them on. Kudos to them for pumping out a great soundtrack as well.

The last mile stretch. Told you it was a gorgeous day! At this point I was counting down the blocks. And trying to keep up with the barefoot runner next to me.

Super cheesy picture. Please refrain your jealousy of my hair.

Taking suggestions as to what to do with the finishers medal that weighs close to a pound.

All I want for Valentines is some ibuprofen.