What a milestone.
Sadly, participants in the "fun run" didn't get a timing chip, so I can only guess at my official time.
No matter though- I'm thrilled to have finally done this. I've been trying to become a runner for over two years, and have made barely a whisker of progress. My disappointment vanished when I rounded the last turn, and saw the finish line, and suddenly, felt energized- my strides became longer, faster, smoother... I crossed and felt so elated, I could have run more.

Afterwards, I went shopping, found nothing, and made my way back home, where my spouse was :::GASP::: cleaning the dining room!!! This is unprecedented! Haha, it MUST be Valentine's Day. I excitedly told him the news, he smiled and said we would have some extra special wine tonight. Yippee!
Moments later, a colleague phoned. He's a good friend of mine, pretty much of a mentor to me. I see both he and his wife regularly at business functions. He and I were at a conference together just yesterday, and I mentioned my upcoming race to him.
I was touched, not only that he remembered, but that he cared enough to call me and ask about the race. He suggested we get together for jogging. My gosh, am I really an athlete now??! Friends call me to set up jogging dates??
I didn't even know he ran, but I do know he's quite fit. So fit, I had to tell him I would probably slow him down, and he should think twice about inviting me along on his jaunts. It is, however, a very good excuse to build momentum- I have found a willing jogging partner, and that's pretty exciting. I encouraged him to register for the next two local races that I'd be in, so we'll see what comes to pass. There is so much to look forward to!

No matter what else happens tonight, no matter how good the wine is, today was a great day.