Part of my “16 Thing to Accomplish in 2016” was to run 10 5k’s a year and my theory was the make the planned March 5k the first one of the year. Well, scratch that, January 16, 2016 was my first 5k of the year. I was planning a visit to Addie anyway and she realized that on the same weekend, she was signed up for a 5k. Instead of staying on the side lines, I thought to myself “now or never”. So I signed up. I am so glad I did. It was a chance to get out of my comfort box considering I hadn’t stroke my foot on pavement in almost two years, I am still way over my goal weight and it was terrifying for me to put my body in a place where so many other bodies were so much more of an athlete than I (I still struggle with my body image). My fear was quickly subsided when we met two ladies – probably out age- who had come up with the same idea that Addie and I did. One lives in Grand Rapids, the other in Lansing. Their first 5k of the year was this Portland 5k and next week they would do one closer to GR, that way, as they are besties, would be able to make sure that they see each other at the very least once a month. Who knew that we would have the same idea! Addie and I have started planning out the net couple months to help keep us focused. So, this race. Prior to walking to the start line, I made a promise to myself that A) I would keep a pace and it didn’t matter if it was slower than all of the rest and B) If I needed to walk, I would walk but only for short periods of time and C) I would not get discouraged no matter what the time on the clock says. And I did all of those things. I finished strong, and the first thing I said to Addie was “that felt really good”, she said the same and we high-fived with smiles on our faces. My time officially was 43:09. It is a start to where I want to be and where I will go. I thought for sure I was the last runner in my age group, but I wasn’t! I was so pleased! Little surprises kept me going that day! Whatever I did, I wasn’t last and that was a hit for me! Post-race there was vegetarian chili (to die for) and bananas. Devouring that, we moved on to pedicures which was probably the best idea we had for the whole weekend. There is just something about being around a bestie that is inviting, warm, encouraging and helps me more than I will ever be able to comprehend. It was so refreshing to be with her, and be encouraged by her. So you may be wondering, what is next. On February 20th (The first anniversary of my father's death), we will run the BARC Mardi Gras 5k in Bay City. Cheers!
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