Santa Hustle--Training

I LOVE the crunching sound of dry leaves under each footstep while I run in the autumn months.

As you know, I'm training and preparing for the Santa Hustle 5k, a running race being held Sunday December 16th, 2012 at Cedar Point, in Sandusky, Ohio.  Click HERE to see my earlier post about the Santa Hustle.  There are Santa Hustle races all over the country this holiday season including Chicago, Sevierville (TN), Indianapolis, Daytona Beach, Milwaukee, and Galveston.  For more information and dates, check out their website: SantaHustle.com

Photo courtesy of Santa Hustle.

I'm very excited to be running with thousands of other people on race day, all dressed as Santa Claus.  This is going to be quite a spectacle--and I've got to remember to run with my camera!  But before December arrives, I have to put the time into making sure I'm ready and prepared to complete the 3.1 miles (5k distance).  I actually run year round so I'm already in good shape.  However, the change of seasons brings its own challenges.  So my training now is actually more focused on making sure I keep up my regular running schedule despite the daylight savings time change, and the extreme temperature changes that occur in Ohio during October and November.

I prefer to trail run but I didn't want to erode the trail during Hurricane Sandy by creating a muddy mess in the woods.

Another unexpected challenge arose last week as well: Hurricane Sandy.  It rained for days and days.  Though that's perfect weather to stay indoors and watch Christmas TV movies--my usual daily activity--it wasn't good running weather.  I don't usually mind running in the rain much but this was a very COLD and consistent rain that caused flooding in many places.  But I'm finally back to my regular running schedule and staying dry.

THIS is why I love to trail run--it's always a gorgeous experience!  I also love all the wildlife I regularly see, including deer, owls, crows, chipmunks, squirrels, foxes, raccoons, ground hogs, frogs, turtles, ducks, geese, and cranes.

Not only am I running the Santa Hustle 5k race but I'll be at the Post-Race Party in Sandusky, OH signing copies of my book, and talking to people about their favorite Christmas entertainments.  Even if you're not a runner, come on down to the race, cheer on the runners and look for me at the Post-Race Party.  This will be a great opportunity to meet me, and maybe even get a signed book to give as a gift.  See you then!

Come to the Post-Race Party on Dec. 16th in Ohio and meet the author of Tis the Season TV and The Christmas TV Companion.  Photo courtesy of Santa Hustle.