On the Run

On Saturday, I competed in my very first 5K race (in support of FASD). Luckily, a very good friend of mine, Megan, came along with me and enjoyed it together. I had difficulty with it because of a very intense cramp that started about halfway through (which was weird, because I usually don't get cramps while running -- maybe it was the nerves?), but I was determined to continue and run the entire way (I would have been pretty upset with myself if I hadn't). So, I did. I was expecting to finish within forty-four minutes (that was the length of stellar playlist), so I was completely surprised when I got to the finish line at thirty-six and a half minutes. And that feeling that I got as I crossed that finish line was amazing! Amazing! I really felt like I had accomplished something, plus that runners high was pretty good too.
I know that for some, running a 5K is not a big deal at all, but it was for me. It was a big deal for a few reasons. For one, during my high school years, I struggled with my weight a lot and lost interest in running (which I did casually in junior high) so much so that when I would try to go running, I could barely make it around the block. So, now being about twenty(ish) pounds lighter than I was three years ago, that race meant a lot to me. To me, it symbolizes my new found love of my (mostly) healthy lifestyle. And, it was a good experience for me to show myself that once again, I can do hard things!
I am looking forward to doing at least two more races this year (one on August 28, anyone want to join?) and continue next year, possibly working toward a 10K for next summer. I love that my legs let me run!

Megan and I (at Crescent Road) before the race, and the dog that belonged to the nice lady who took our picture. 

Posing with Megan, and her brother and his girlfriend. No post-shots this time. (No one needs to see that). 

So, who wants to join me on August 28?