I generally do not like 5Ks at all but since we were corporate sponsors, I laced up my running shoes for this event. Talk about a change of heart. . . After today, my perspective on such events was shattered into tiny pieces.

The Winter Garden 5K was one of the most enjoyable events I have participated in, which happy to say, has been a theme this season. It was the last of a series of preparations for the big Disney weekend and what a way to finish. Firstly, the location was perfect. The town of Winter Garden reminds me of a (the old TV show) Happy Days set. Kind of a throw back to the 1950’s, it is filled with tons of personality and gems on almost every corner. It really was an ideal setting for a fun run.

The course was fairly flat with the exception of one hill around the second mile. It dipped and circled and wound around the streets of Winter Garden, finishing in the center of town in the historic district. The irony of ironies, we ran past our investment house on Apopka street at mile 2.5, complete with our “welcome sign” that read: “Thanks 4 running Buy Me!“ Lisa and I had our creative hats on for that one. Brought more than a couple of laughs.

As usual, the people at Tri & Run (one of the event organizers) were great as were the exceptional group of runners consisting of about 100 or so. Many of our friends were participating, smiling away with their upbeat attitude and buoyant energy. It was a treat to be a part of this small event, proving that a sense of community is very much alive and healthy in America.

As per the event, I am really a blessed person and am most grateful for this. One of the countless reasons I say this is that I live with an individual who is such a source of inspiration. Lisa ran another PR, finishing a hair over 32 minutes, knocking more than 2 full minutes off her prior best. It is only a matter of time before she cracks the sub-30 mark, followed by the sub-25 minute challenge. Flash has worked so hard on the track, pouring her heart and soul into each grueling session. The results as we can see, are clearly starting to pay off. When I see her take risks and live with passion, I am motivated to do the same. Only passions, great passions, can elevate the soul to great things. It is one of the most impactful gifts one person can give to another.

Today, Christmas came a little early.