Normally I run by myself or with my dogs. I was not sure what to expect while running with a group of people. I thought that I would be left behind, since I am still recovering from my broken ankle. I thought that it would be impossible to talk because I'd be winded. I thought that I would feel out of place because I'd be running with people who have completed marathons before. I thought wrong.
Everyone was very encouraging and friendly. They had stories to tell, and they were willing to share their experiences of their first runs. Any questions I had, people were willing to answer.
I admit, I'm nervous about the marathon - yes, I'm already nervous even though I have six months. I learned yesterday that my nerves are normal. My fellow runners also prepared me for other feelings to expect. For example, they warned me that I would be tempted to run more than is recommended, but I should not give in to that temptation. Doing so will increase the chance of injury.
I was very surprised that I was running right beside everyone else and that I was keeping up my end of the conversations. When they said 15 minutes were up and it was time to turn around, I was amazed that much time had gone by. When I crossed the bridge and the run was over, I could not believe that I completed three miles. After the run, I felt great! I'm looking forward to our next group run.
