Run turned fun

Encouragement and confidence cannot be underestimated. E was right... two years ago, about this time of year, as I was beginning another semester and had agreed to assist in ART 111 at Penn State, I would have never guessed that by this time I would finish my first 5K. I don't even like running! Yet, as the year has pressed on...being in an urban setting that doesn't lend itself to many "outdoor" activities...I have taken to running. It began EXCEPTIONALLY slowly... building up from 5 to 10 to eventually 50 minute runs. Finally, I surpassed the mark I set for myself when I would try a 5K for the first time. I found one...and it turned out to be the best possible introduction to running in groups. It was a "Fun Run" that benefited a local arts program for children, and it was amazingly laid-back. Everyone took it for what it was...a fun run. Groups broke off and paced at a speed that was comfortable, and when we all gathered back at the running store... there were beers and cupcakes and rice crispy treats... awesome. ANDDDDDDDD.... raffle prizes. We won a new back pack! Crazy, right? $20 for two super nice t-shirts, a back pack...and beer? Who could resist?!?! So, I ran faster than I usually do...went up more hills (including the Chestnut stairs...yeah in SF several streets become too steep to even allow reasonable pavement options, thus the streets into staircases...and the Fort Mason hill) totaling 282 ft (yeah nothing on a bike but on foot??? and at once??? whew...). So, yeah...E came with me, met me at the end and ran the last bit (again) with me, and was just there. Amazing what just his presence encourages me to do.

Red-faced and finished...

Mouthfull of cupcakes and beer... a maybe a little on that beard...