Ever since I was little, I’ve wanted Bloomsday to officially fall on my Birthday so I could run it “on my birthday.” I don’t know why it was something I was always so excited about. I think back then, I wouldn’t have wanted to run the whole way. And back then it was cool to carry around “Happy Birthday” balloons so everyone would know it’s your birthday. But being as old as I am, it didn’t really matter anymore. All I wanted to do was run the whole way without stopping so it would be over sooner!
We did have a fantastic birthday weekend. Kevi celebrated his birthday on Friday. He had a happy hour at Linda’s (and let me share it!). Then he drove KMJ, BK and me over to Spokane in his NEW CAR! It was a comfy ride and it was extra nice for me because I didn’t have to drive! Plus, his car has butt warmers – what a brilliant feature!
Once in Spokane, we hit up the Milk Bottle for lunch. No one was brave enough to have a milkshake plus a side of ice creams, like LB, the Dairy Queen, did a few years ago. We saw Wolverine (because really, there’s not much else to do in Spokane) and visited with my family. Alli takes after her Auntie with a love of cake and all things sweet. In fact, the first thing she said when she ran to me and gave me a big hug was, “Cake! Mumble, baby talk, mumble, birthday cake!” That’s my girl!
Sunday was Bloomsday of course. Kevin beat me by 2 minutes. And I didn’t beat my personal best. I’m kind of kicking myself for not training more because I have some wicked blisters on both feet. And I was actually sore the next day. I wasn’t even sore after I ran the marathon – how sad is that?! I’m either getting old or am out of shape. Or, *gulp* both.
Despite my crappy time, I love everything about Bloomsday. I love the scenic course and all of the bands along the way. I love how involved the whole city gets. If not running in the race, then volunteering. If not volunteering then out cheering on family, friends and strangers. I love the hoses and squirt guns people blast you with as you’re running by. The parties on the balconies along the course. Even how excited everyone gets just to see what color the Finisher T-shirt is. It’s such a fun event! And I kind of love saying that I had 50,000 people at my birthday party 
