State Fair/Milk Run 2011

Yesterday we resumed our Milk Run tradition (last year we had to miss it because I had to work), and it was extra-special because Karl ran in his first official 5k race! It went very well, with Karl keeping a very steady pace until his nice hard kick in the final stretch, finishing with a time of 31:14. He beat 20 people in the "men under 20" age group. Not bad for a 7-year-old first-timer!

Angie came with Colin to run too. Unfortunately Jason had to stay home with the other two boys because Justin was sick. Here were are before the race.


While we were running, Laura and Colin hung out with Matt. Apparently it was very mellow.

And here we are after the race. Usually Karl (and Angie) chat the whole time he runs, but yesterday was serious business. He didn't talk very much, except to comment on how fun the downhills are, and how cool it is to grab a cup of water, drink while running, and then slam the cup on the ground.

With the race out of the way, it was time for some fair fun! The kids always wait on these rocks while Matt runs back to the car with the jackets and sweatpants, and Angie goes to change clothes. I just wear my sweaty running clothes all day. I figure if I can't shower, why bother changing?

First stop: Giant Slide! Laura RAN up those stairs like a shot. She'd been waiting a YEAR for this.

Karl was not far behind.


Matt and Colin

On to the Kidway! The kids were much braver this year, and Laura rode her newfound wave of bravery as she tried all the rides she was too scared to go on before.

The kids lost steam pretty quickly, though, and soon the toll of the early morning became very clear. Suddenly our sweet children were exhausted. And they showed it.

Our happy family right before we left. I don't even think we made it to noon. The day peaked quite early, but it was worth it. Congratulations on your first race Karl!