And we ran...

On Saturday, April 4, we ran. All four of us ran a 5k! It was a blast!

I started running about a year ago. I am really bad at it and it took me most of the year to be able to run a mile without walking. But I did finally figure out that I was running too fast. Once I slowed down a bit, I was able to run a mile. Subsequently, I ran 1.5 miles, and then 2 miles. Running was a great time for me to be alone, just me and God. I was really enjoying my running time.

Then someone had the brilliant idea to start a running club for our homeschooled kids. So we started running together, me and the kids. I didn't know how they would take to it, but they really did seem to enjoy it. They were plotting their miles on a chart and earning little charms for each 5 miles they ran. Nathan especially liked achieving new distances each week. He was really excited about the 5k. Katie struggled a little as she was not able to run as far, as fast, or without walking. She did love running with her little girl friends. She was nervous about the 5k and didn't know what to expect. She thought that she would be watched by a whole crowd of people, and she didn't like that idea. Also, the idea of it being a "race" made her feel really unsure.
Here is some of our running "team".

When it came time, we all loved it. The atmosphere at a race like that is one of community, encouragement, and accomplishment. Everyone was so supportive and cheered for each other. We had a blast!!

Nathan and I ran together. We each had moments of wanting to walk a bit, but we kept each other going and made it through the whole run! In his age group, Nathan came in 18th. There were quite a few kids in his age group.




















Katie ran with Greg. They ran and walked and had great conversations! In her age group Katie came in 6th!

Greg has run many races, but has been out of running for quite a few years. He has had problems with his knees, so being able to run this distance without much training and NOT having his knees swell up was a major accomplishment for him.

And, me, well, I am on to train for the next race! I enjoy running, but the race was sooo much fun~ can't wait for the next.

The kids will continue in their running club, and I with them. Enjoy the pics!