Run for Recess 5K

When I did my first 5K in January, my goodie bag contained a flyer for the Run for Recess 5K.  I signed up and then cold weather, treadmill hatred, and too much homework derailed my running efforts.  I got back at it this week after a few weeks skipping the gym, just in time for today's 5K.  I knew I'd be walking a lot of it again but it's still fun!  I was worried about the weather...snow/rain in the forecast.  The rain stopped by morning and the cold wind eventually blew away the clouds.

Since I wasn't going to be fast, I wanted to have fun.  Going with the school/recess theme, I did my hair in pigtails and added kiddie barrettes, colorful earrings, and curly ribbon.  (I was so pumped up already that my hand wouldn't stop shaking - hence the blurry pic.)

I had picked up my packet on Thursday, which included a reusable bag and a t-shirt.  I met the wife of the race director (who is training for the Salt Lake Marathon), some teachers who were only there to support the cause and dreaded walking that far, and a man (Kurt) who was trying to get started with running.  I regretted my ponytails a few times, when the wind kept whipping hair into my face, but it was still fun.  I walked a lot.  I ran some.  Around 2 1/2 miles, I caught up with Kurt.  We encouraged each other to the end (as he realized he's going to have to quit smoking cigars, haha) and ran across the finish line together.  

My time was of course not amazing but it was faster than I've hit in my training.  I'm proud of myself!  I really struggled the first mile.  I hit the 1 mile marker and was like, are you kidding me?  But then my legs started feeling good and each time I ran it felt totally manageable.  Go me!

Next up, glow-in-the-dark night run this summer.  Totally buying glow hair gel!