A New Addiction

The start of the race at Freedom Plaza

This weekend, I ran my first ever 5k! And let me tell you, I am hooked.

To be clear: running stinks. I don't like it. I am not one of those people that gets high on endorphins, loves the feeling of a good run early in the morning, or ever would ever be competitive at running. I signed up for the 5k to SHAME myself into getting into shape. If I didn't train, I'd look like an idiot finishing last in the pack. I knew that making myself stick to a schedule with a definite end goal would be the only way to make myself actually commit. And -- it worked!

It wasn't easy. At first, I started out only running a little more than a mile- and it was painful. I remember my birthday weekend coming back from a 1.5 mile run gagging and heaving my way to the end of the jog. But 8 weeks later, thinks were much improved!

I owe a lot of people thanks for helping me get ready for the race. My friend Shana, who completed a marathon last year, emailed me regularly with tips and turned me on to Hal Higdon's training program. My friend Holly who showed up outside my door for after-work runs every week and was extremely patient with my slow pace. My friend Rachel who inspired me with her half-marathon training. And of course, all of my friends who showed up to cheer me on!

But one person deserves the most credit. My dad! We used to run together when I was in high school and even during the summers in college. He always pushed me to do my best. When I suggested that he fly down to DC and join me in the race, I never thought he'd actually agree. But he signed on and began to train, and when we started texting each other daily reporting on our progress, there was no quitting!

The race was called the "Scope it Out 5k" and was to benefit colon cancer research. About 3500 people participated. We ran along Pennsylvania avenue to the front steps of the Capitol. It was a cold and misty morning, but dad and I had a blast- we finished the race running less than 10-minute miles and a total time of 30:26. I was very proud of our "couch to 5k" progress!

Crossing the finish line

So why the addiction? Well, even though running is boring, painful and stinky- the cheer of the crowd and the adrenaline rush of a race is the closest thing I've found to being on stage since I graduated high school. And I hate to admit it, but I loved that feeling then...and I love it now. So if I get to enjoy the adrenaline and the cheering, and get in shape at the same time-- it's worth it! I've already signed up for my next 5k in April.

Besides the joy of the race, my dad and I had a lovely weekend together. We visited the National Arboretum, the Smithsonian, and had a number of delectable meals. I miss him already. Here's to more races together!

Post-race smiles- and sweat!!

All our amazing cheerleaders!

Peace and Love.