So, I’m leaving for Alaska tomorrow on what is quite possibly the most random, semi-spontaneous trip of all time. To give you an idea of what I am in for, here is a question from the FAQ of the half marathon I will be running while I am up there:
Will I see moose or bear? What do I do?
There is a decent possibility that you will see moose. These are wild animals, so keep your distance. If their ears go back and they seem agitated, get further away, and circle off the trail to avoid them if necessary. Moose with calves are especially unpredictable. There’s very little chance of a bear sighting, since they’re wary, and there are a lot of folks out there. If running in a heavily wooded area alone, make a lot of noise (“HEY BEAR!”) because they do not appreciate surprises.
DECENT POSSIBILITY?! Somebody hold me.
Also, re-reading that just now made me realize how little I have learned about the importance of checking out the course info because I had no idea I would be running through heavily wooded areas. Alaska is a weird place, guys.
As if angry bears weren’t enough, Nicole informed me yesterday that it is supposed to rain the day of our race. Our conversation on the matter went something like this:
Nicole: Rain?!
Me: ….RAIN????? When things get tough just remember the hills of Austin. Perspective?
Nicole: Hills > Rain. I mean, I THINK. Fuck. What are you packing??
Me: I don’t even know. I’m going to start with rain boots and a poncho, clearly. As far as running clothes, I don’t even remember the last time I ran in the rain. What kind of socks would you use? I should probably stock up on Glide right?? Oh wait, it says showers. Are “showers” in alaska the same as “showers” down here? At what point do we panic? OH MY GOD I BET WET BEARS ARE MUCH ANGRIER THAN DRY BEARS.
Nicole: I DON’T OWN A PONCHO OR RAIN BOOTS.
This weekend is going to be epic.
