Two hours ago I started my first 10K — and one hour ago I finished with a sprint and a big smile! The longest run in my life, and it was a blast. My dad and I chatted the whole way, effortlessly passing people who were pounding and puffing away. Not that we were going fast — only ten minute miles — but it was most enjoyable.

At the end, someone expressed surprise that I ran the whole way with my toe-shoes. And I did! It’s like running barefoot, except that the thin sole protects my feet from rough pavement and sharp sticks. Gravel still hurts, but the comfort more than compensates — my toes aren’t squished together, my stride naturally tends towards a mid-foot strike and proper posture, and they’re so light and breathable that I have no desire to take them off afterwards. My feet get a chance to naturally adjust to different surfaces, so they get less fatigued by standing, walking, or running. Plus, people always seem so excited by them, and I always recommend them with the highest praise. After all, I just ran two to three times longer than I normally do, and my form (thanks largely to Chi Running and my Five Fingers) was up to the challenge.

I just wish I had eaten a wee bit less muesli beforehand, and stolen a banana before they only had cupcakes left!