Welcome to Washington: 13x13x13 - 11

Although yesterday's run was not the first I have done in the state of Washington, it was the first time the Washington weather came out. The forecast predicted temps in the mid-50s, certain rain, and a wind advisory. The temps were right on and fortunately the rain clouds were merciful, keeping their goods to themselves. The wind however... was anywhere from 25-30mph and we were running straight at it most of the way.

This 11th half marathon of the year cost me a $10 donation to a local food bank and a handful of tissues. I also found a mascot in one of the snails that came out after the early morning rains. Maybe part of the reason I'm so slow is because I stop to take pictures... of snails.

Final Time: 2:46:18

There was also a fun surprise in store for me at the end of the race - an old friend (who I only saw about once a year living in Texas) was in the area. We went to brunch afterward and she restored my faith in Shari's. She also restored my depleted supply of power steering fluid! So handy, that one.

Now that I'm almost done, I thought this would be an appropriate time to reflect a bit. Here are a few things that I've learned about running half marathons:

• I am becoming increasingly superstitious about wearing the bracelets my mother-in-law made me.
• Eggs Benedict is my favorite post-race meal.
• When it comes to food, hydration, and sleep, it's not the night before that counts the most - rather 2 nights before. I would eat Thanksgiving dinner on this night every time if I could.
• I know I need to drink a protein shake after finishing, but I will never like it.
• There are a lot of things we assume are impossible that are, in fact, totally possible!
• Slow and steady wins the race eventually gets you to the end.

It was a beautiful course!

Closeup: please take a moment to admire this woman's
awesome, fruit-stripe-esque pants.