{racing in chicago}

A few months ago I was itching for the next race, decided to run another half marathon, and was thrilled when my friend Brook wanted to join me for her first half. I really enjoy training with someone, and we had such a great time getting ready for this race together. This particular race was in Chicago, one of my most favorite places to visit. We had some fun things planned for our family to do as well, and I couldn't wait!

We left bright and early Friday morning, and were hoping to arrive early afternoon.  Unfortunately we hit some major construction traffic, and it took us two hours to go four miles.  The kids were in a state of rebellion at that point, and we still had ninety miles to go.  We survived, thanks to copious amounts of fruit snacks, but hey--you have to do what you have to do, right?

After we checked into our hotel (which was right downtown and a screamin' deal on priceline), we bundled up and headed out to get something to eat.  This proved to be a little more difficult than I originally thought, as we strived to find a place that was family friendly, and had even a small selection of gluten-free items. As we searched we did enjoy a nice walk downtown, and the boys were especially fascinated by all the cars, honking cabs, and droves of people.  

After dinner, Rick dropped me off at Charlie & Brook's hotel.  They didn't have kids with them, and staying with them meant a quiet night's sleep, and not having to wake little ones in the morning.  Rick was a trooper to take all the kids by himself that night and the next morning--it made a huge difference, and I am grateful!

The next morning came quickly, and after we ate breakfast and got dressed, we headed out for the starting point.  Their hotel was literally a 5 minute walk, which was perfect.  The day was BEAUTIFUL, and we could not have asked for better weather.  I like to run in cold weather--the colder the better--because I get so hot, so running in the low 40's is exactly right for me.  The sun was shining brightly, the sky was blue, and it was perfect.  This race was a costume race, and we were completely entertained by all the clever and sometimes crazy costumes.  With about 6000 runners (5k and half combined), it was busy, and very exciting.

The race went well for me--I felt good the whole time. It was so fun being with Brook and Charlie--he definitely kept us entertained. :)  Brook did really well, and I'm SO proud of her!  She hadn't been able to run the last couple of weeks due to a knee injury, and despite all of it, she pushed through and finished strong. Her determination was inspiring, and I'm glad I was there for it! ♥ Rick and the kids were at the finish line, and there is nothing better than having them there to greet me.  It was wonderful!

After the race, we headed back to our hotel so I could shower, and do the girls' hair.  :) We were ready for a trip down the Magnificent Mile!

The girls had been looking forward to this trip for a long time, because it meant a very special outing to the American Girls store.  They are getting American Girl dolls for Christmas this year, and I really wanted them to have the experience of the store--it is incredible.  We had to talk about it many times before we left, so they would understand that even though they were choosing their dolls, they wouldn't actually receive them until Christmas.  I know--it's a lot to ask, but they were sure they could handle it. So, off we went--the girls one way, and the boys the other way.

They looked and looked--through both gigantic floors--at every doll, outfit, brush, and comb.  We scoured shelves, compared hair and eyes, and looked at all the clothes.  We get the catalog each month in the mail, and they had already poured over it, each going in with the doll they thought they would get.  In the end, Kate ended up with something different (which totally surprised me--she had been dead set on one particular doll for at least a year), and Emma left with the very doll she had in mind in the first place.  They also got to choose one extra outfit, and it was really, really fun to see their individual tastes and personalities come through.

While we were shopping, Rick took the boys to the Lego store, which they were equally excited about.  All of my boys are Lego maniacs, and could stay there all day.  We joined them when we were finished, and stayed another two hours!  We left with more Christmas presents for the boys (I'm almost done, yay!), and everyone was happy.

We spent the rest of the day exploring, EATING, walking, and eating some more.  After cheesecake, Garrett's popcorn, and delicious meals, I had definitely eaten all the calories I burned while running.  Totally worth it.  :)

When we got back to the hotel that night, the kids were asleep in ten minutes.

It was SUCH a fun trip!

I'm already looking forward to the next races--I think I'm addicted.  :)  There is a series of three half marathons in January, February, and March--specifically for those that like to run in the winter.  I actually prefer winter running--I get hot so easily, that I MUCH prefer it over the summer heat.  Rick and I are both excited about it, and it will be a great way to keep motivated during the long winter.

After Halloween yesterday (pictures coming soon), and being gone last week, today I'm playing catch up.  A day to stay in jammies, be cozy...sounds wonderful!