I almost forgot, I’m running a 10k tomorrow down on Cape Cod. Definitely not the time of year most people travel to Cape Cod, but runners are not smart like most people. Common sense says to stay away from the beach when there is snow on the ground and it is 25 degrees out…

At least I have gained some common sense. I ran the half marathon the last two years, but now I am just doing the 10k.

We’ll see how this goes, considering I have run 1 mile in the past 6 weeks or so.

I don’t usually buy running shoes online. I like to go to a place like Marathon Sports, run by elite runners that know what shoe will work for me. Saving money isn’t worth having improper footwear that could cause lasting medical problems. So I usually spend about $90.

But if I’m buying shoes for general use, I look for whatever shoes look decent and are cheap. Usually $30 for a pair of Nike or Adidas at J.C. Penny’s.

Well, I’ve found a new source for my shoes: Run Bargains

Why?

They sent me a free hat! I signed-up for their e-mail list, and the next week I got a free running cap in my mailbox! Hand addressed and everything!

How can I resist shopping with them now? Great customer service and I haven’t bought anything yet! Plus, there are online contests where you can get even more free stuff!

Check ‘em out:

http://www.runbargains.com/

By the way, the reason I started browsing the site is because they had sweet shoes by Pearl Izumi for $30!

If you get there soon, you can probably get a free hat too!

Coming up Dec 11 (this Sunday) I’ll be doing the Bill Rodger’s Jingle Bell run in Boston.

There’s more info at http://billrodgers.com

I guess it’s pretty fun with everyone dressing up in costumes and then having an after-party at the Avalon!

To celebrate the holidays, I’ll be wearing red tights and Santa-style boxer shorts. And of course a Santa hat! (a Santa suit would be a bit much…)

Stay tuned for a race report, with pictures!