Drumstick Dash

Me (to the left-hopefully obvious) hanging out
with the Drumstick Dash Turkey!

I stepped out of my comfort zone and did the Drumstick Dash.  It was cold as expected, 40 degrees.  I know, some of you think that's nothing.  I, on the other hand, think it's cold.  Honestly, it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.  I did forgo the parka and just went for some sensible running pants, layered tops, hat & gloves.  I did not run with the scarf as pictured. Do not think I did not have fleeting thoughts about capturing the turkey and his warm "outfit".  Nobody would have known the real turkey was tied up in the back of my van. I would say it was still pretty dang cold the first 3/4 of a mile or so into the run.  Then, it started to warm up quite significantly and thought, this isn't so bad.

I actually headed down the night before to register. I figured if I didn't register now, I wouldn't be so inclined to get up early and go if I hadn't already registered.  Later that evening, I was gathering my stuff to have it ready for the morning when I realize my bib and time chip are nowhere to be found.  I kind of panicked for a quick second and retraced my steps at the registration.  Two options stood out to me.  I registered for another race while I was there and could have left it on their table while filling out their forms.  I also used the restroom at the Blue Mile, the local running store and one of the sponsors of the event.  I told myself I would get up, get ready as if I were going to run this and head back to registration and see if by any luck, it got found and turned in.  There was actually a "help" table at the morning registration and they had it.

It was  a decent run for me.  It was 4.5 miles with a time 46.34, a 10.21 pace.  I never claimed to be fast, but I ran the whole thing.  I never endured any knee issues, which seemed to have been this year's curse. I've been running recently and somewhat consistently, but not of any considerable distance.  I ran this one myself, which is a rarity.  I usually run most of my races with my Stalker, a.k.a running partner.  Stalker, a.k.a. known as my aunt, was hosting our family Thanksgiving at noon and didn't want to risk not having it ready on time, so she didn't want to run this one.  I have to admit, running by myself is harder mentally.  I "found" 2 guys running who seemed to be at my pace but also intent on not walking and paced myself with them.  It also helped that they were quite talkative, therefore keeping my mind elsewhere.  I stayed my distance to the side so as not to seem stalkerish, lol.  Hey, a girls got to do what a girl needs to do, at least to finish without walking.