I finished my first 5k! One is done and behind me. I did the Reindeer Run 5k yesterday and I finished. I didn’t do as well as I hoped, but I did it. I crossed hobbled my way to the end.

Turns out, my leg wasn’t as healed as I hoped or expected. It felt fine in the morning, but about half way through, I realized I was hurting and needed to stop. So I walked the rest. I was dissapointed, but I finished, and that was my goal.

Next year when I run it, I will be sure to wear more layers. It was about 10 degrees outside and bone-numbing cold. For about three hours after the race I was chilled.

I’ve learned some things since six weeks ago when I decided to start running.

1. Anyone can do it. I’ve never been able to run. I could barely huff and puff my way to jogging 20 seconds when I started. Now I can run three minutes without gasping for air.
2. Running is as easy as it is hard. Getting up and leaving my apartment is the hardest part for me. Once I’m out there, I enjoy running. I feel accomplished when I see a tree ahead and not only run to it, but run past it.
3. When you’re hurting - stop. There’s a difference between feeling the burn and feeling an injury. I learned that the hard way. It’s going to take my calf a 5-6 weeks to fully heal, and because I pushed it, it’s taking longer than it would have had I not continues to run on it.

I’m taking the next two weeks easy so my calf can heal, then I’ll start running again on a schedule after that.

I’ve also started looking for a next race. I like having a countdown and goal. Having a race or two before will keep me on track for the half marathon in July. Any suggestions?