Kumiko Love Instagram – The lesson: Believe in yourself more! It took me five years to overcome my fear of running in my first official race (besides Bloomsday), but I finally did it! I finished my first 10k! I have run longer distances in the past, but it’s always been treadmill running. I was scared of the weather, the natural incline, and everything I could not control off the treadmill.  I wish I had believed in myself more and signed up for the half marathon. I felt extremely strong passing the finish line, and I knew I had it in me to do the additional miles. At mile 4, I had my fastest mile ever: 9.29. I have always been a slow runner. Usually, I run a 12-13-minute mile, but yesterday, I finished with a time of 1:10:12. I’m proud of this! The best part was seeing my husband and son waiting for me as I crossed the finish line and running this race for my mom (which I will continue to do for every race in the future).  When I got tired or started to doubt myself, I placed my hand over my heart, right where I placed my mom’s photo button. I found strength in knowing she was there with me. Next time, I will believe in myself more and sign up for the half marathon next year. Until then, I want to have fun and practice doing more 10K runs! #yesyoucan #runningmakesmehappy #believeinyourself #first10k #ididthat #foryoumom #irunformymom