The Jingle Jam 10k, my friends. Santa Claus, bells tied onto your laces, fun costumes, neighborhood scenery, and more. It was this past weekend and it was a lot of fun. I say fun now, but the course was certainly challenging. Up and down, up and down. Disney princesses around mile 2, a holiday singing group around mile 6, and Buddy the Elf at the finish line. I saw a couple of old friends, including a cool high school teacher (pictured below), and met some new ones along the run. I had a goal time and I met it, which is rather exciting.

An entire hour of running. It’s weird to say it like that because when I’m running it I only see miles passing. I will say I’m proud of myself for how I finished, how my body felt (no pains), and how much I enjoyed it. This was my first organized 10k, and especially post collegiate athletics and the surgeries on my foot, I’m psyched, and thanking God.

J asked me afterwards if I now wanted to run a half marathon or something, and my answer was quick: Don’t think so.

All you who enjoy those longer races, power to you, friends! Good for you. But around mile 5 I was thinking, I am enjoying this race, but I wouldn’t want to do 13, or 26. I don’t think my body or mind would enjoy it. I like the 6-8 mile range because I can challenge myself without being miserable — I can set goals and reach them without having to carve 2+ hours out of the day, and my body feels good afterwards.

So… I’m hooked on the 10k. It was a great (cold) morning, and I’m thankful and super happy for the chance to run a race again and enjoy myself.