Run, Annie, Run!

The Finisher Medals are Wine Stoppers!	Some pumpkins @ Dry Creek General Store
I did it! The Healdsburg Half was a great time...I actually ran the full 13.1 miles (a first for me; I usually have to walk some), and it was a really beautiful course and morning. When we started, it was probably about 40 degrees. BRRR. I don't think it has ever been so cold when I've started a race. It was still dark, but the sun was trying to peek out over the Coppola winery as we started. We ran right along side the freeway for a mile, then turned onto a lovely road that took us through vineyards and past wineries. My friend Mark, pictured above, ran the whole time with me, which was really nice of him (he is a lot faster than me). While I didn't finish in the time I had originally hoped, thanks to some poorly timed bathroom stops and me just being slow, I am so excited that I ran the entire thing. W00T!
Sweet Daji	I assume I had a treat
After the race, we headed back to the cabin and rested for a bit. Then off to some wine tasting! Our first stop was at the Dry Creek General Store, a gem of a deli right on Dry Creek. We had run right past it that morning, the sun barely shining, so it was great to visit with the heat turned up and the sun shining down. I truly love the autumn here in Northern California. After that, we headed to Amista Vineyards, a dog-friendly spot right on Dry Creek Road. We grabbed a bottle of Chardonnay and lounged on their lovely patio. The dogs absolutely loved it, and their owners did, too! Running 13.1 miles will tire a person out, so we soon went to rest our weary muscles. I can't imagine what running further would be like...and I don't think I will ever find out. I'm perfectly happy and proud of myself for finishing this bad boy!
A few late-harvest grapes	A cool trike at Amista
My boy.