Running

Did I mention that I love running? Specifically in the early morning and late evening. (Running in the afternoon is pretty much horrible, but I guess it's good, and will help me greatly..... But like I said: horrible.)

I don't particularly love getting up early, but when I run, I feel wonderful. The wind in my face, my legs aching, my ponytail bouncing and hitting my neck, my lungs screaming for more air, and the thrill of it all. I love it. Even when It hurts to breathe and my face gets all red. I love setting a goal, then running past it.

And I love representing a team. Wearing the jersey (however unattractive it is), or just running with the other people on cross country. I love passing people, and having them say "Good job!" or "I can't believe you do this for fun." or having friends shout out the windows of their cars, or passing the elementary school and high-5ing the kids while they chant "Runners rock! Runners rock!"

I love the people on the team! Even though I'm not as good as them, they tell me how they notice I'm improving:)

And even though afternoon practices are brutal, they can still be fun! And I feel so much better running earlier or later, because I know how hard it is when it's hot.

Last Saturday, I ran my first 10k. It was also my first race. My coach told us to not burn ourselves out on the first 3 miles. A few days before at practice, I had done just that and was a little worried. The first 2 miles, I wasn't running with anybody I knew, but after I passed a group of old people (I hate it when old people pass me!) I met up with Emily and Baylee, and we ran the rest together. Mile 4 was the hardest by far. I knew I had only gone halfway, and I was starting to feel quite tired, and to top it off, the 'mile 5' sign was tipped over, so we never saw it!

The best part was the end. I came down the street and could see the finish line sign. I started running faster, and when I got closer to the end, a guy taking pictures said "Smile, Wasatch!" (Remember how I love being part of a team?) and told me to sprint it out. I ran so fast to the end! I passed a bunch of people, and people I didn't know were cheering and laughing because I was passing all of these adults with only 10 or so seconds left of the race. I placed 6th in my age group, which is really good for me!

I love running, although you might have to remind me when I go to afternoon practices and meets this week;)

xoxo katie

ps, don't judge my pictures