First Family 5K -- Oktoberfest 2009

In years past, James and I have participated in the Addison Oktoberfest 5K that benefits Wipe Out Kids' Cancer. Not only does it serve a good cause, you run 5K to be greeted by free beer at the end! http://www.oktoberfest5k.com/ It's always been a lot of fun and something I have looked forward to each year. This year, James and I had each set a goal back in the spring to get in enough shape to run the race again. Note: this was pre-pregnancy! But we thought it would still be fun, and Claire would be happy sitting in her stroller for a mere 3.1 miles, right? Ummm ...

The first mile was great. She sat in her stroller watching other people fly by us first in one direction and then the other as folks hit the turnaround (we had started towards the back since we had a stroller and didn't want to get in anyone's way). She looked out for babies and doggies and overall relaxed in her seat.

Second mile was when she wanted to be carried. We alternated between the two of us to carry her in our arms, on our shoulders, or even on my back. We started slowing and more people started passing.

Mile three: Claire wants to walk. By the time we started the 3rd mile, we were officially last of the pack of the entire race. Claire needed to stop to check out flowers, trees, rocks, and the bumps in the road. At least I got in a good cool down!

I can 100% guarantee you that my first 5K during this pregnancy is also my last -- I mean, seriously, what was I thinking?! -- but I'm glad I did it.

Our final time was somewhere over an hour
(not exactly sure how long since we didn't start when the clock was 0)

Post-race snacks and smiles