First 5K

A couple of days ago, I decided to participate in the annual Oregon Trail Days Fun Run. Since I only began walking, running, or engaging in any cardiovascular activity whatsoever four days ago (I know, I am pathetic), I was not participating in hopes of winning. Instead, I just wanted to see what it was like. I have walked the 5k, but I wanted to experience running/walking the race in a competitive environment.

The options were a 1 mile race, a 5k race, or a 10k race. I knew that the 10k was not an option, so it was between the 1 mile and the 5k. After some thought, I went with the 5k. I knew that I would not be able to run the entire course, but I wanted to push myself and knew that the 1 mile would be too easy.

Once I decided to participate, I started searching for a running partner. I asked my sister to join me, but she said no. However, she informed Rachel Hinze that I was looking for a running partner. Now, if you don't know Rachel, she is a sweetheart. However, she is also an avid recreational runner, cross country runner, cross country and track coach, the list goes on. In short, Rachel's level of running and cardiovascular shape are extremely superior to mine. When I spoke with Rachel about the race, I provided her with a disclaimer that I am not a runner and have just started working out. I told her to imagine the worst cross country runner she has ever coached and multiply that by 10. Then, she would know my ability level. Rachel started laughing; she thought I was kidding! I wasn't; poor Rachel!

My first race number!

As you can see, I did participate. Here is an overview of the highs and lows:

Highs:

• I did it!
• I did not die!
• I did not come in last place!
• I am glad that I participated!

Lows:

• My goal was to run the 5k in less than 30 minutes, but according to Rachel's unofficial time we finished in 31:40. So close!
• I did have to stop and walk some of the time which I expected, but I was hoping I would not have to walk as often.
• A five year old girl beat me. No, I am not kidding, she could not have been older than five!
• It was probably the longest 5k Rachel has ever completed. Sorry Rachel! She probably could have won the race if she wasn't running with me.

Although there were highs and lows, I am very glad that I decided to participate in the 5k. It was a great experience and provided much motivation to keep running and working toward the half-marathon in October!

Bucket List

Do you have a Bucket List? I do. It is probably different than most Bucket Lists because it is more of an informal To Do List with short-term and long-term goals. It is not a written list; instead, it is a list in my head. It is the list that I go over each night when I should be sleeping. I add, mark off, and prioritize the list constantly. I can't help it! For example, I have a list of tasks I would like to accomplish before school resumes in August:
1.  Paint the house.
2.  Paint the shed.
3.  Replace the yard fence (with Greg's help).
4.  Stain the front and back decks. I am investigating a product called Deck Restore. Has anyone used it, heard any comments about it, etc.?
5.  Take the boys on a vacation - Yellowstone, Oregon Coast, or both. We are not sure yet.
6.  Figure out how to decorate my newly painted classrooms with ORANGE trim (the color swatch was RUST). More on that in future posts.
7.  Attend my cousin Scott's wedding in Montana.
8.  Oh, and complete three more graduate classes.
I know, I have a large list. But, it is not crucial that all of these tasks are completed this summer. It would just be nice if they were.

In addition to a short-term To Do List, I have a long-term Bucket List. This list and its priorities also change, but not as often:
1.  Save enough money to build a home.
2.  Obtain my Master's degree (Which I will be able to mark off the list next May!).
3.  I also have a secret goal to someday obtain my Doctorate, but it is not much of a secret because Toby knows and now you do too!
4.  Become Pioneer Woman. I know this is very unlikely, but she is my idol. This woman is amazing, and since I cannot become her, I will settle for meeting her someday.
5.  Travel to Hawaii. Hint, hint Toby.
6.  Empower and equip my children with the skills to be successful in life.
7.  Complete a half-marathon.

There are more, I just can't think of them right now, but this last goal is the reason for today's post. I have decided to train and participate in the Run for the Hills Half-Marathon on October 1, 2011. This event is three months from today. To be exact, it is 13 weeks from tomorrow, so I have plenty of time to train and prepare for the event.

I am not in the best shape, so it is probably good that I have until October 1 to prepare. I have never considered myself a runner, but I have always admired those who participate in marathons and half-marathons. The proceeds from the event go to a wonderful, local, nonprofit organization, Love INC. In addition, I have been trying to get motivated to lose weight and get into better shape without much luck. However, I believe that an upcoming event is just the motivation I need. And, by putting the goal in writing instead of just in my head, I will hold myself more accountable.

So, today was the first official day of training. As I said, I am not in great shape, so I am starting slow. Amy was kind enough to join me this morning which was a good thing, as my other training partner did not offer much support:

Do you have any advice or suggestions? Do you want to join me? I will keep you updated as the event approaches!