By Emily McLaughlin

I completed my first 5k today! (Well, the first one I was serious about–we aren’t counting the UMass Homecoming 5k Halloween weekend.) This weekend has been amazing for a few different reasons. Some of my friends know already, but I have some big, big news to announce… in my next blog post. ;)

This morning I ran the 6th Annual Jingle Bell 5k in Somerville, MA with Ryo and a few of my lovely friends. Even after having a few (or several) drinks the night before at Ryo’s magically extravagant company party, I was feeling pretty great! I had a breakfast sandwich, hydrated to the best of my ability, then we headed on over to Somerville to meet up with thousands of Santas, reindeer, elves and other holiday characters.

It was pretty chilly, but the wintry weather mix held off until well after the race was over. I wasn’t too confident about running in the cold this morning, but I still preformed pretty great! I didn’t have to stop to stretch or walk at all. Here are my results (and Ryo’s too since we crossed the finished line around the same time):

This is definitely a race I would like to take part in annually. There was so much holiday cheer… and so many Santa appearances! Here are some more photos, most stolen from my friends… thanks, everyone!:

Jennie, Jess and I before the race.

In front of us at the start line.

Behind us at the start line.

So excited to see our friend, Holly!

Right after the start.

Post race… Ryo is sooo happy. ;)

Another post race pic — Jennie, Jess, me and Brian.

Happy holidays, everyone!

P.S. Things I am looking forward to in the near future:

1. Announcing my big news!

2. NYC this coming weekend.

3. My first Rockette’s show (while in NYC).

4. Family time at Christmas.

5. Sweater parties.

6. NYE!