Halloween

So this year, I joined a friend to run the Monster Dash Half Marathon bright and early Halloween morning. I had considered various costume options (for a while, 80s cheerleader was the forerunner), but ultimately decided that I was too cheap and the weather too cold for anything fancy. I did at least go for colorful, thanks to last-minute striped legwarmers, an orange scarf a friend crocheted for me in college, and a bright green beanie.

Lots of other people had gotten crazy and creative with their costumes, including team ones--a pack of running bananas, several crayons, and a ketchup and mustard duo (the former of whom I ran close to for a mile or so, and who, when passersby shouted, "Mustard's up ahead!" would reply, "I'm trying to catch up!").

I'd considered running this race for several years, and had even driven my neighbor and friends to the start line year before last, but had always been somewhat daunted by its proximity to the TCM and had wondered whether I'd be able to run again so soon. As it turns out, I think it probably was a bit soon; I didn't feel quite the energy reserves on the course that I wanted to, and I've been moaning so much over my sore muscles that David has declared that I am not to run any more marathons or half marathons, ever. However, it was definitely a fun time, and although I could only keep up with my fast friend for about three miles (she ended up finishing with a 7:55 pace, while mine was 9:24), I did enjoy myself.

...So much that I just registered to run the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon on December 5 with my sister and brother-in-law. Woo-hoo!

Here are photos David took during the morning (as always, click to view the album and larger pictures):


In the last picture, after the race, I'm wearing my medal. It's on this weird yellow lace-thing, but the best part is that it is a belt buckle! I think this is pretty much the greatest idea ever. Now I just need to find a belt I can put it on.

I was going to write about our adventures after the race, but find myself too tired. So, see you here tomorrow!