5 Mile Run -- (AA)

LAS VEGAS -- Post Maxim Oasis party, we hit the sack at 2:30a. But at 6a, I was surprised to roll out of bed and get ready for a run. This is why I bring the running stuff on most trips...even if it isn't likely, sometimes you just find yourself wanting to run. And getting caught wanting to run without your gear is too much to take.

So anywho, I throw on the shoes in a haze and start out the door. My shoes didn't quite feel right, but I drank some water and got ready to just chart a course. Ended up just going up the strip past Treasure Island and looping back, with a few quick detours here and there.

By about mile .25, I realized I had forgotten to put in the foam inserts in my shoes. I usually take them out to let my shoes dry. But it had come too far to get up get going to stop and go back for that. So I accepted the coming blisters and shin pain.

Great run. Fun seeing people slogging back from all-night benders still in the same clothes and looking rough. Sun was up, very friendly running community despite the set up. I saw a few runners and without exception, they all gave the wave or nod.

Also ran into a Canuck who was running. Helped her with directions and chatted on the way back. It was good, too, because it helped me just leg it out without focusing on my stupid shoes that were tearing with their stitches into my feet.

Ended up feeling just great. Great. Only thing that kept this one from being an outstanding was my general lack of good running fitness AND those dammm inserts. Oww.

But awesome walking into a casino at 7a coated in sweat. People look at you like you're superhuman.