#PFP5K (Challenge Hearts and Minds)

Do you know that song that gets sung at the end of every Dora episode? The "We did it" song that celebrates the accomplishment of the day? Well, that song has been going through my head repeatedly today - because I DID IT! I completed my first official 5K!

A few months ago the idea of walking/running a 5K was mentioned on Twitter and nearly overnight the most incredible and supportive group was created - #PriorFatPack.

Sabrina was the one who blogged about the PFP and mentioned that if others were interested to let her know. I knew if I didn't jump at this opportunity - to join an encouraging and fun group - I'd never do a 5K. So I commented, and she welcomed me into the group. When I first registered for the 5K and joined the PFP, I had no idea how important this group would become to me. It is more than a group completing a 5K. I had no idea how much I would really come to think of them as friends, and how I am rooting for each one of them to accomplish great things!

Right before the start of the race. I was runner 154, and here are two of my most adorable fans.

This was during the first of two laps. Honestly, the first mile was the worst for me today. I knew that I should be able to atleast get to the 1st mile marker without walking. It seemed forever until I saw that little white sign with a bright '1' painted on it. Then I figured that I should keep running past the crowd. Once I did that, I figured I wasn't far from mile marker 2. I kept going, and once I passed the 2, I knew I'd be disappointed if I let myself walk (since I still was capable of jogging). Today I realized how mental running really is. I love it!

Closing in on the finish line...

My official time - 39:13. I jogged the entire race and was so proud of myself, and I came in under 40 minutes. Previously, I'd only run 20 minutes or just about 1.5 miles without walking.

Jen, me, Lindsay and Ann. Serious amount of support in this group.

Jen and Ann - two of the most empathetic and fashionable ladies I know.

The Pack! And as Kris would say, "Rawr!"

I can't wait to see what else is instore for this group.

Two of the most selfless people I have ever met! Liz and Kris are so giving of not only support, but also time. I was so glad to be able to get to know each of them a bit more this weekend.

The biggest moment for me today was listening to Elle talk to Jen. Jen asked how Elle she felt about completing the 5K. Elle replied with, "It was great. I can do something that normal people do." At that point a woman leaned over and said, "No, you just did what alot of normal people can't do!"

Thank you, #PriorFatPack for encouraging me and inspiring me! I am so blessed to know each one of you!!