Raindrops & research

I can now cross running a 5K off my bucket list! Woo-hoo! This morning, I ran in the Queens for a Cause Autism Speaks 5K, and (despite the yucky weather) had a really good experience! Now, that is saying quite a bit, because 1) if you know me, I am not a running expert & 2) a lover of rain is something I am also not.However, seeing the insane amount of runners and walkers there to race and support Autism Speaks was such a neat, inspirational sight. Props to everyone who got the race together! It was very organized, and everyone seemed to enjoy their morning. (P.S.: Also thanks for the bottled water & surplus of bananas post-race!)

My thought process during this 5K was as follows: Ok, GO! Awesome, joggity jog, here we go...joggity jogging my way. Got it. This is great! I'll just keep pace with this girl. Wait, she thinks I'm creepin' on her. Man, it's cold. I bet I won't even sweat! (fast forward 10ish min.) Yeah! I'm doing ok. Good pace, sweating just a little...Oh, look we're going downhill! Wonder how we're going to get back up... (5 min later) OH...that's how we're gonna get back up. Heave! (almost done...maybe) Yep, still going...surely we're about back now. Ok whatevs, keep on keepin' on. I hope my sweat isn't showing through. (almost done) Ok, one more turn. I can do that. Hey! There's my pace partner. Yup, gotta stick together. Too bad she doesn't know I'm following her. (seeing finish line) I'm a beast. And I'm quite schweaty.

Alright, it was just 3.2 miles. But this is Caroline Carter we are talking about. The girl who got made fun of all throughout high school during the fitness tests because she runs like a gazelle with an ingrown toenail. A 5K is a big deal to me, people. Let me have my moment :)
But, really, I had a great time running today and ran into several people I hadn't seen in a while. It was an all-around great morning!

Finishing in 27:59 definitely didn't hurt my feelings either! So, yes, now I am looking to run a couple more races, who knows...I may actually begin to enjoy running soon enough? :)

Definitely gonna need some new running/workout shoes though. These Nikes are about to bite the dust. I'm thinking about going the Asics route soon. Gotta do some research first. I'm definitely not an impulse buyer.

I may pass out soon. 5K + grocery shopping + dance practice + work = exhaustion. Sweet sleep, little ones!

xoxo-C