Popping my 5K Cherry!

On Saturday I ran my first official 5K. I was so nervous. I kept trying to tell myself that I have done it before, because I have, but this was official. It was timed, there were over 200 other runners, it was intimidating. I kept thinking, "What if I come in last?"
But I did it.
Saturday morning I woke up bright and early and got ready to run! My goals were simple:
1. Keep it under 14 minute miles
2. Make it in under 45 minutes
3. Not come in last!

I knew quite a few other people who were running so we all met pre-race. I actually caught myself shaking at one point. I didn't realize I was as nervous as I really was. When it was finally time to go to the starting line I just turned on my iPod shuffle and was OFF!!!

Mile One was rough. I did lunges on Thursday and my booty started burning. However, I didn't have my normal mile 1 aches and pains. I tried not to focus on the fact that a lot of the people were passing me. (My friends were already far ahead working on their own personal records.)
I just kept going. I had practiced the route so I knew what milestones to look for. There were people cheering us on along the way, so that felt great!
Right before I hit Mile 1 I saw the first of the runners passing me on their way back. I didn't know how many, if any, people were behind me.
I saw most of my friends before I hit the turn around, but after the turn around I felt great....I wasn't last!
Once I hit half way, I started the negotiations..."Once this song is over, I'll give myself permission to walk for 30 seconds if I have to." "When I make it to the tree, I'll give myself persmission to walk for 30 seconds if I have to." I ran the whole way. I made a plan to go at my comfortable pace until I could see the straight away of the finish line and then step it up.
As I got there I could see the timer, but it was partially obscured by the tree. I saw the seconds first, then I saw a 0....My first thought was disappointment, "OH, 50 minutes isn't so bad..."Then I saw my mom, crying at the finish line, so I started running fast and there it was not a 5, but a 4! I did the race in less than 41 minutes! I got over the finish line and all my friends were there hugging and congratulating me!
I can only say this... I cannot remember EVER feeling this accomplished or strong.
I set a goal and BEAT it!
I couldn't have done it without my family and friends!
Next 5K is NEXT WEEKEND. It's a cross-country with hills. I practiced it today and I know there will be some walking involved, but I'll do it!