color me rad.
Today was a sweet day. My friend Charissa and I ran the Color Me Rad 5K, our first race ever. My only goal was to run the whole thing, and we did it! Well maybe it was more of a jog than a run (especially up that bear of a hill at the end … oh my goodness), but I’m counting it a victory.
There were 6,000 runners today, everyone from college students to families with kids. It was totally laid back. There was lots of laughter and lots of people who walked. Oh, and lots of color. We got pelted at four color stations, then at the finish line we were given our own bag of color (dyed corn starch, if you’re wondering), to throw at each other.
We had fans. David, Spencer, Judah, and Amie showed up at two points to cheer us on. Spence came to watch his sister Mary Grace, who is a real runner, and probably finished the race before we even began.
We finished and then all reconvened, along with my mom, at the farmer’s market (now moved to Main and Hampton, everyone!) for a celebratory breakfast plate. And coffee. And a nutella crepe. Yum.
Not to get all sentimental, but I feel like today was a gift. For almost two years I’ve tried to start an exercise habit. My anxiety needs it. My body needs it. But for almost two years I’d get sick every time I’d start to hit my stride.
But now. I feel amazing. My body and my emotions are healing. I’ve made some huge diet/lifestyle changes thanks to my encouraging, supportive nutritionist. I’ve been five months antibiotics-free. I have more and more energy every day.
Thanks, Chris, for being my running partner! Bring on the next race!
10 Comments
pat
What a great day! Congrats!
julie gentino
thanks pat!!!!
Miriam
that race looked so fun! wish i could have done it! we need to meet yall at the farmer’s market sometime for breakfast. i checked it out last week and love it being on main st.
julie gentino
next year maybe? yes, definitely breakfast at the farmer’s market! i LOVE the new spot!
mama g
Praise the Lord! I love the pix!! Jules and Charissa, you are awesome!!!
mama g
Did you feel like you were back in south Asia on color day?
julie gentino
ha ha yes a little bit like Holi! ever since Ams has been begging, “can i go running with you when i grow up!??”
Jackie Sue
Just love this post Julie!!!! It’s His grace again!
Michelle Santora
Time to start training for a 15k?? 🙂 There’s a chocolate-themed run in Atlanta in January that I might go up and run with Kathi. You should join us! 🙂
julie gentino
Michelle I’d love to! How long is the run? I’m scared to do a 10K!