This was my 3rd time running the Mount Dora Half Marathon, and it's become a favorite way to end my racing each year. The race is about 40 minutes away from me, so it's pretty easy drive to Mount Dora.

I picked up my packet the day before, Saturday and it was super easy and fast. The race had a few vendors there, and I checked them out as well. The highlight was they had Olympian Bill Rodgers on hand to sign his books and take photos with runners. He is a really nice guy, met him a few years ago when I first ran the Mount Dora 5k.

Race morning, it was raining. The forecast was nothing but rain, rain and more rain. Despite my wishes that it go away, I made the best of it and ended up having a great time. It did rain the entire 13.1 miles, though there were a couple of times when it was barely noticeable.

Because of the rainy conditions, I didn't get to fully enjoy the scenery that I typically do at the race. I told my friend who I ran with that she had to do this race again next year, because while it was okay running in the rain, it's harder to appreciate the beauty of Mount Dora that way.

I didn't finish in the greatest time, but I felt that the race support was awesome throughout the course. Volunteers took very good care of keeping runners hydrated and cheered us on. Love the volunteers!

After finishing, I love being able to take Christmas-themed photos with the big inflatable Santa and other fun backdrops and themed portions of the start/finish line. I think the fun holiday theme makes this race unique and I love that. And, the medal is fun too, love it!

I look forward to going back to run the race again in 2020, such a great way to end the year.