It was just last week that I participated in my first 10 mile race, and although I had originally planned to do a half-marathon this weekend (March 19, 2011), I opted instead, to do a 5K put on by my local running club. This is only the 3rd 5K that I've run (out of 11 races so far) as it's not really my favorite distance (I'm just not speedy). But, I was determined, so I decided to line up closer to the front for this time, and take off fast. Looks like this strategy paid off because although I was winded in the 2nd half, and that monstrous double hill about 1 mile from the finish tried to take me out, I still had enough to make it to the end in good time.

I ended up with a personal best time ... by exactly 4 minutes, and although I couldn't get an award since I wasn't "officially" timed, I still got a roll of toilet paper (a little weird) and a mug, for entering. The race was put on as a benefit to raise colon cancer awareness.

25:47 for a 5K is pretty darn good for me, so it really gave me a little extra motivation. And you know what I was most proud of - not freaking out because of my crazy mistake with the timing chip. I don't ever want to turn something that's supposed to be enjoyable (albeit hard work) into something stressful - I don't want it to become my "idol." So I hope you guys are enjoying your passions, but don't get too stressed out about missing a workout day for example, or eating something crappy one day - especially if it involved a celebration with friends!