Go Me!

This morning I ran my first 5k since high school! Right after Christmas two of my coworkers and I decided we were going to run the Wine Country 5k.  My cousin Stephen and Aunt Arlene were also running it and Justin was going to run the half marathon, so most of my family would be there anyway. John and the kids were front and center cheering me on, along with my mom, dad, Audrey and Lauren.

I have been running a couple nights a week and it is starting to feel really good. I actually miss it when I don't do it! And its nice to get away from the house by myself for a little bit each week.

Lynda and Jeri were my training buddies, though we never actually ran together before the race, we checked in with each other every day to see how things were going. Lynda and I ran together most of the race and Jeri was a few minutes ahead of us (she even won her age group! Go JC!!!).  I love these ladies, they made this so much more fun.

 

Of course I am a fan of anything that involves hanging out with this guy. Aunt Arlene didn't make it to the race, but I was happy I got to see his smiling face!

I must admit that I am proud of myself for taking the time to get healthier. I am proud of myself for finishing the race, and I know I will get faster with time and practice (I ran at an 11:30 pace today, and I am not complaining, I was not expecting to even go that fast). As soon as I finished the race I though, I should do a 10k! So that's whats on the plate next. Hoping to get it in before my 30th birthday. Since I have been running 4-5 miles at a time, I think its doable.

I am also so grateful to John who cheered the loudest (no matter what Julie says) and who always makes sure I can go for a run. Even if it means he does the dishes, puts the kids to bed, or cleans up the house and packs lunches all on his own.

Also, I have to mention that Justin killed the half marathon. He won....by a lot. He was a full 12 minutes ahead of the #2 runner. And he won his weight in wine.

After the race, we went home for naps and then hit the sunny, 80 degree beach. Yup, today was a winning day!