Running with Angels is a book that was written by Pamela Hansen. Admittedly, I have not read the book (although I hope to soon). Dianne, one of the psychologists with whom I work, was telling me about it one day as we were discussing running. (I ran my first 5k with her and her friend, Ruth). It’s a story of a woman’s “triumph over tragedy” through running. There’s a great article that reviews the book, if you want to read about it.
Today was the 3rd annual Running with Angels 5k at Thanksgiving Point and I am happy to say that, even though I have gotten very little sleep over the past week, I managed to drag my butt out of bed and run it. I was a little concerned about how not fast I would be running, but I decided not to worry about it. I ran into Ruth and Dianne at the race and ended up running with them for about 4 of the 5 km. These two women are so inspirational to me and I absolutely love running with them. They have been running together for years and have all kinds of fun stories to tell, so running with them is always entertaining.
Today was my fourth 5k, but it was the first one where I just let go and really enjoyed myself. I didn’t set a PR, but it wasn’t my slowest 5k, either. And considering that I have hardly run at all in the last month and that I’m still getting over strep throat, I felt great about it. Not only that, but I don’t know how many of you have been to the gardens at Thanksgiving Point, but this was my first time. It was absolutely amazing! And to be able to run in such a beautiful setting on such a perfect day…well, that’s what it’s all about for me.
If you have never participated in a race before, even if you’re not one for running, I highly recommend it. There is this unbelievable energy. I don’t really know how to describe it. And runners have to be some of the nicest people out there, along with the people who organize the races. I love how people just cheer you on. I love that it doesn’t matter if it takes you 30 minutes or an hour, people cheer for you either way.
I can’t wait for my next race, my first 10k.
existential dilemmas 
Oh, I forgot, amazing pictures!!
I ran my first race on April Fools Day, and going into it I thought I was a fool to attempt it, but it was such a blast! The atmosphere is somewhat electric and there is no lack of encouragement! Good luck with the 10K, it will be cake!
I have to agree with you. Racing is SO awesome… even if I’m one of the slowest racers out there. There is amazing commraderie amongst all the participants.Good job on running your 5k!I’ll be running the Freedom Festival 10k as well! My first 10k and I’m kinda scared but SO excited!I’ll see ya at the race!christy (yet another blogstalker… hope you don’t mind ;)ps- those cookies in your last post look sooooo good!