Walk Into the Future

Category: Travel

Articles on travel.

  • Marathon Training and Leadership: The Journey Matters

    “Don’t dream of winning, train for it.”

    (Mo Farah)

    My Walk into the Future continues at the halfway point of 2026. This year has been exciting for me as I explore new adventures and topics for my readers.  Please note, these adventures and topics are exciting to me and I’m happy to share with you—hopefully you are enjoying the journey so far in 2026. 

    Shoutout to Lauren for accepting a new role within the Villanova University Career Center—well done my friend! 😊

    I started reflecting on how to compare training for a marathon and leadership. There are a few things that both have in common.  At first glance, marathon training and leadership may seem worlds apart. One involves logging miles on roads and trails, while the other focuses on guiding people and organizations toward success. However, the more time I spend pursuing both, the more I realize they share many of the same principles.

    Success in both begins with a vision.  No huge revelation there, huh?  Nobody wakes up one morning and accidentally completes a marathon. The journey begins with a clear goal and a commitment to achieving it. Leadership works the same way. Effective leaders establish a vision, communicate it clearly, and create a plan to move forward.

    Whether training for 26.2 miles or leading a team through a challenging project, success starts by knowing where you want to go.  Many new runners believe success comes from one great workout. Experienced marathoners know that consistent training over time produces results. Success as a leader follows the same pattern.

    The most respected leaders are not the people who deliver occasional moments of brilliance. They consistently show up, communicate effectively, support their teams, and make sound decisions day after day.  These small daily actions consistently create outstanding outcomes for the team.  How do you build an ant hill—one grain of sand at a time! 😊

    Every marathon training plan includes periods where progress feels slow. There are days when the miles feel difficult, motivation is low, and improvement seems invisible. Leadership presents similar daily challenges. Organizational change takes time. Team development takes time. Building trust takes time.  Great leaders understand that meaningful progress rarely happens overnight. They remain committed to the process even when immediate results are not apparent.

    Every marathon includes difficult runs and occasional bad weather. Every leader faces obstacles as they attempt to move the team and organization forward. In training, challenging workouts strengthen the body and mind. In leadership, difficult conversations, unexpected setbacks, and periods of uncertainty develop resilience and character. The challenges we face often become the experiences that prepare us for future success.

    Although marathon runners cross the finish line individually, their success is often supported by coaches, training partners, family members, and friends.  Thanks Jayla, Lauren and Lynn! 😊

    Leadership is no different. Strong leaders recognize that success is a collective effort. They invest in relationships, empower others, and understand that accomplishments are rarely achieved in isolation.  The strongest leaders know how to build strong teams.

    Marathon training includes many small victories before race day: completing a long run, reaching a new distance, or achieving a personal best.  Leadership journeys should include celebrations as well. Recognizing progress boosts morale, reinforces positive behaviors, and reminds teams that their efforts matter.  Success is not just about reaching the finish line—it is about appreciating the journey.

    Marathon training has taught me lessons that extend far beyond running. It has reinforced the value of discipline, resilience, patience, and purpose—qualities that define effective leadership. Both journeys require commitment and demand perseverance. And both remind us that the most rewarding accomplishments are earned one step at a time.  This seems to be a recurring theme. 😊

    As you continue your own leadership journey, remember that progress is made through consistent forward movement. Just like a marathon, leadership is not a sprint. It is a long-term commitment to growth, improvement, and helping others reach their potential.

    Keep moving forward. Your future is waiting.

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Everything you wanted to know about yourself, you can learn in 26.2 miles.”

    (Dr. George Sheehan)

  • Nashville in pictures

    “To travel is to live.”

    (Hans Christian Andersen)

    The running tourist returned to Nashville for the 2026 Rock N Roll Half Marathon back in April.

    Here are a few of the sights and scenes from my trip–enjoy! 😊

    (Honky Tonks on Broadway)

    (Opry Mills)

    (Downtown NashVegas!)

    I’m looking forward to my return trip to Nashville! 😊

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

  • 2026 Nashville Half Marathon

    “What a glorious battle we had today.”

    (Calvin Williams)

    The quote above is directly from me!  Yes, Lynn, I am quoting myself now on the blog. 😊

    My Walk into the Future allowed me to head back up to Nashville, Tennessee for the 2026 Nashville Rock N Roll Half Marathon.  This was my eighth time with this glorious battle, and I have already signed up for #9 in 2027.  I love Nashville and battling the hills and heat are a byproduct of running this race.

    The glorious battle concept is listed because I didn’t have the best training cycle preparing for this year’s race.  I’m always training but didn’t get in my normal bridge runs as part of my preparation.  This is an easy lesson to remember but I didn’t make the time to get up and down on the bridges this year.  Fun fact, I signed up for the 2027 version as soon as I got back to my hotel after this run.  I’ve also started with my bridge repeats just to make sure my fitness levels are back where I expect them to be. 😊

    I changed my routine and flew out of Palm Beach International (PBI) Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida instead of my normal Orlando flights.  PBI is only 50 minutes from my house in Fort Pierce and had better flight times than Orlando this year.  I had a short layover in Atlanta, but the flight times got me to Nashville around 10:30 am.  I was able to pick up my rental car without any issues and made the short drive to downtown Nashville to check out the race EXPO.

    I love this EXPO because they bring in a lot of local vendors and have product demos available.  I always make my way to the massage areas to see what’s new in that space.  I was able to try out leg compression sleeves for about 30 minutes while in the EXPO area.  The salespeople are good, but I didn’t purchase a pair.  I got my race bib and goody bag and made my way over to Broadway for food, beer and live music.

    My first stop was at Rippy’s Honky Tonk for some BBQ, beer and live music.  This venue is right on the corner, so it is a great place to watch people walk up and down Broadway. The Stage was my next stop because I love the sound system there and people are friendly.  The morning bands are not as good as the later acts but there was a good vibe, and people were dancing at noon on a Friday.  Nashville is a great place!

    Luke Comb’s, Category Ten was my ultimate stop for the day.  This venue replaced the old Wildhorse Saloon, but they did not get rid of the line dancing lessons.  They have line dance instructors who lead guests every hour and show two different line dances.  Most of the dances they teach are new to me so it’s great the instructors walk you through each one step by step before turning us loose with music.  Most people are surprised to see me on the dance floor kicking up my heels, but I love this venue, the music and the people. Yeehaw! 😊

    I followed the instructors through two separate line dance sessions and decided to head to my hotel on the Westend to get off my feet and prepare for the battle the next morning.  I took a chance and changed from my normal hotel to a brand-new Residence Inn less than a block from where I normally stay.  I love the Westend because once you park you can explore the area by walking around and taking in the sights.  The Westend has more of a community feel so you can mix and mingle with locals in the bars. 

    I got to bed early so I could get ready for the Nashville hills on race day.  My hotel was a little over a mile from the race start line and I use the walk down as part of my warmup.  I arrived at the race site with plenty of time to warm up and stretch.  I also followed one of my traditions and made a stop at the First Baptist Church to soak in their hospitality.  The church is open to runners and spectators to provide a convenient place to get water, relax and go to the bathroom.  The church members are super friendly, and I met the head pastor this year while waiting to go into the bathroom.  It’s always great to interact with the First Baptist Church folks!

    I made my way to my start corral to mentally lock in for the hills, heat and miles.  It was a bit warmer than normal this year but everyone in the start corrals had smiles on their faces and got ready to run NashVegas. 

    First forward a bit and my first mile went by with a 9:38 pace.  Fun fact, this was the fastest mile split I would run on the day. ☹  I didn’t fall apart but there was no extra gear coming today.  I realized at the Mile 5 marker that this was not going to be a fast day, so I decided to enjoy the race, the crowds and the sights.  I’ve run this race multiple times but I never looked up to see how beautiful the Belmont University campus was.  It was like I was seeing the campus for the first time when in fact I just never looked up to take in ALL the sights.  I almost stopped to take pictures but that would have taken the running tourist moniker a bit farther. 😊

    I finished the half marathon with a little kick and a small smile on my face this year.  I knew I didn’t train specifically for this race so decided not to beat myself up based on my time.  The effort was there; I just need to match that with the correct training cycle.  The 2027 race will be my redemption tour and get me back to running fast in Nashville.

    I got my customary photos and beer in the race village before walking back across the bridge to get food.  My go to spot after the half marathon is ACME Feed and Seed which sits right on the Cumberland River.  I got fried chicken, collard greens and macaroni and cheese bowl.  It tastes better each year when I get it. I took a slow walk back to my hotel after lunch to recover, stretch and take a nap.

    The rest of my time in Nashville was dedicated to live music, beer drinking and shopping.  I made two stops to one of my favorite spots, The Midtown Café.  This is an outstanding breakfast and lunch spot.  I always find a seat at the bar and enjoy watching the locals come in and out.  I recommend this spot if you make your way to Nashville.

    Well, that’s my recap of my annual trip to Nashville.  I’m looking forward to get back up there for a Titans football game later this year.  There may be another Nashville article coming this year. 😊

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

  • Ellucian Live 2026

    “A podcast is a great way to develop relationships with hard-to-reach people.”

    (Tim Paige)

    My Walk into the Future provides a viable platform to share information and my thoughts.  I never imagined I would still be blogging eight years from my first article.  Thanks to everyone who reads my work!

    Ellucian Live 2026 was held in Denver, Colorado this year and this was my second time attending.  We made an appearance last year in Orlando, Florida for the same event.  Fun fact, Denver is one of my favorite cities and I was excited to get back out there.  I was also a featured panelist with several of my outstanding teammates at Indian River State College.

    The Ellucian team has been working with Indian River State College on implementing the Banner ERP system.  We have been at this for over two years now and the Ellucian representative thought it would be worthwhile for my teammates and me to share some of our Change Management lessons learned during the implementation process.

    I never turn down an opportunity to spread Authentic Leadership, and this was an outstanding platform for me to share my thoughts.  The panel was moderated by our Ellucian Change Management partner and one of our internal Project Managers.  Both ladies are brilliant and leaders in the field of Change Management.  We were in great hands for the panel!  Thanks, Cathy! 😊

    Our panel was scheduled for the first day of the conference and provided us with a prime-time slot , location and access to reach a large audience.  Again, we were not sure how many people wanted to hear from a small school in Florida, but our session was full.  We had folks from around the country and a few international attendees as well.  A nice surprise for the team.

    We started the panel with team introductions, so everyone knew who we were and our roles on the team.  The panel flowed into questions from our moderators so we could share our thoughts and actions to ensure we had a good Change Management program.  I am proud of my teammates for their knowledge and willingness to share their expertise with the attendees.  The final 15 minutes were a questions and answers session where attendees grabbed a microphone and asked questions specific to their locations.  This was fun for me because it allowed us to come off script a bit and provide real-time solutions for other schools. 

    We all got an invite to attend another regional conference to share with other groups.  I have not seen the written invitation for this request, but we are available to speak with anyone who wants us to join them.  Yes, share with anyone you know looking for panelists, key notes and breakout session. 😊There were several folks who came up to speak with us after the panel was over to share contact information and ask follow questions.

    My Vice President, Beth Gaskin and I left the panel and headed to our next speaking engagement of the day.  We got invited to do the EdUp Experience podcast which was hosted in the lobby of the Denver Convention Center.  This session was not scripted, so we fielded questions about leadership, culture building, fun in the work environment and our thoughts on the future of Higher Education.  This was an outstanding experience for us, and we had a ball sharing insight with another audience.  I’m not sure how many people follow this podcast, but it is a great platform to learn from professionals making positive things happen. 

    Give our episode a run here:  https://www.edupexperience.com/calvinandbeth/.  I’m looking forward to getting another invite to speak on this great platform.  No pressure, Dr. Jodi Blinco! 😊

    We are always looking for adventures and discovered Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube were playing at the Red Rocks Amphitheater.  Beth got tickets for the show, and we were off to take in the Red Rocks sights and see two Hip Hop legends in concert.  The Red Rocks venue was breathtaking as advertised.  The seating is built into the rocks and there was not a bad seat in the venue.  We were able to rap along with the Hip Hop legends and enjoyed the show.  The entire Marley family is playing Red Rocks in June.  I may have to get back there to check them out.

    I was able to get in a good run session to test myself against the altitude in Denver.  The thin air was a welcome change from the Florida humidity.  I was able to handle the altitude without much issue, but I could tell a difference in my breathing after my three-mile journey.  It would be great to have altitude training available on a regular basis. 

    This was a great trip for networking, sightseeing and enjoying the mountain views.

    I look forward to getting back to Denver soon!

    Where are you travelling this summer?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

  • 2026 University of Louisville 10-miler

    “As we run, we become.”

    (Amy Burfoot)

    My Walk into the Future continues to explore new races and new states in 2026.  I made a concerted effort to find races in states that I have never visited and leverage this as part of my running tourism program.  My newest adventure allowed me to race in Louisville, Kentucky and then cross the river into Clarksville, Indiana.  This equals two new states for me in one trip –economical. 😊

    I searched multiple sites to find a race in Kentucky that would allow me to experience the culture and get some sightseeing in.  Louisville is home to the Kentucky Derby and has multiple stops on the Kentucky Bourbon trail.  The University of Louisville 10-Miler was attractive because of the distance, the state of Kentucky, the Bourbon Trail and proximity to Indiana.  I leveraged a similar tactic last year when I doubled up with Wisconsin and Iowa.  Two states with one trip.

    The University of Louisville 10-Miler was a great experience from start to finish.  I flew out of Orlando because there were direct flights to Louisville.  The flight was uneventful and I was able to sleep the entire way up.  The Muhammad Ali International Airport had a lot of personality and was easy to navigate.  I made my way to the rental car counter and my adventure was on.

    My first stop was the race EXPO which was held within the L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium on the University of Louisville campus.  The EXPO was not huge, but it was the first time I experienced an EXPO in a college football stadium.  I got my race bib and my customary pictures.  There were not a ton of vendors, so I decided to explore the city a bit before settling in.

    My hotel was in downtown Louisville, so I decided to explore a bit.  GPS showed I was only 10 minutes away from Clarksville, Indiana so I made my way across the river to get in my second state of the day.  I searched for and found Buffalo Wild Wings in Clarksville and made my way there to carb load, eat wings and drink beer.  There were several shopping centers close by, so I made my way over to do some window shopping while in Indiana.  I still needed to get back to the hotel to get off my feet and hydrate prior to race day.  I headed back across the river to Louisville and posted up in my hotel room to stretch, hydrate and mentally prepare for the 10-Miler. 

    The University of Louisville 10-miler is the grand finale of the Louisville Triple Crown of Running which is a three-race series that builds anticipation, endurance and community within the local running community.  This race is a little different than most when I travel.  I was surprised to learn the race start line was right outside the main entrance to Churchill Downs.  There was a sense of history in the air being this close to the famed venue.  There were close to 3,000 runners lined up to tackle the 10-Miler and an 8k race.  I’ve never seen another event listing an 8k, but it seems to be a popular race distance in Louisville. 

    I posted up in Corral B for the start of the race.  I couldn’t tell which runners were competing in the 10-miler or the 8k.  There were three different bib colors, and everyone was mixed in the corrals.  FYI, I didn’t do a good job of researching the course and found out there were steep inclines in my near future.  This isn’t a flat, easy cruise.  Lesson learned!  The course winds through some of Louisville’s most iconic areas, neighborhood streets, scenic stretches, and the rolling terrain of Iroquois Park. The hills don’t just test your legs—they test your mindset.

    There’s a point in every 10-Miler where the race becomes less physical and more mental. For many runners, that moment comes somewhere around miles 6–8. It hit me at mile 5 when the hills in Iroquois Park started to get steeper with every step.  I had to find a different level of mental support to get me up and over the hills during this portion of the race.

    The weather was warmer than I expected but there were a lot of tree lined streets on the back end of the course.  This provided a small level of comfort and helped me move towards the finish line.  This race provided multiple experiences, and the finish line sets it apart from others.  Runners enter the L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium to finish on the 50-yard line.  There were folks sitting in the stadium and every runner was displayed on the Jumbotron.  I found a little kick and put a smile on my face as I crossed the finish line.

    The University of Louisville 10-Miler is more than miles and medals. It’s:

    • A celebration of discipline
    • A test of resilience
    • A community coming together

    From the post-race tailgate with music and food to the shared stories among runners, the event reminds you why you started running in the first place.

    I decided to explore Louisville and the surrounding area after I got my nap in after the race.  Multiple friends gave me advice on places to visit.  My first stop was the Angel’s Envy Bourbon Distillery.  I’m not a Bourbon person but I was excited to give it a try and signed up for a free tasting session.  We were able to taste multiple Bourbons and were given a full understanding of how to sip and what goes well with Bourbon.  Turns out you can mix a piece of chocolate with your distilled liquor.  Who knew?! 😊

    I ventured down to the Louisville Slugger Museum and got a chance to explore the history of the famed bat making organization.  There were tours of the museum, but I decided to just walk around on my own.    I ventured into a few other distilleries but didn’t do another tasting session.  It started to rain during my walking adventure, so I made my way back to the hotel and relaxed a bit.  This was a quick trip up to Kentucky, so I kicked back in the hotel and reflected on my adventures over the weekend.

    I’m not sure I will run this race again but I’m happy I got a chance to explore Kentucky and Indiana on this trip.  I will continue to look for new races in new states to expand my Walk into the Future running adventures.

    Where are you traveling next?

    Irie!

    “Run often. Run long. But never outrun your joy of running.”

    (Julie Isphording)

  • 2026 Winter Park 10k

    “10k:  It’s too far to sprint, but too short to jog.”

    (Unknown)

    My Walk into the Future continues to allow me to experience life, adventures, and travel.  This is not the most poetic statement I have ever made but I like the clarity it provides for my readers.  What do you call your current journey?  It may be time to give it a name and share it with your people.  Just saying! 😊

    I’ve expressed my affinity for the Orlando Track Shack and the folks that run this club.  I started running with Track Shack back in 2012 and still consider it my home run club even though I live in Fort Pierce which is about an hour and a half southeast of the club headquarters.  No worries, I still get over to the Orlando area to participate in Track Shack events that fit my run schedule.

    This was my eighth time running the Winter Park 10k and I enjoy the experience more each year.  It is the last race in the Track Shack Running Series, and it attracts thousands of runners to the paved street of Winter Park.  The after party is always epic with great food, beer and giveaways.  The 2026 Winter Park 10k was not just another run on the calendar for me.  It was a checkpoint, a reflection, and a quiet reminder of why I continue to run.  I love the experience!

    I got to Track Shack after work on Friday to pick up my race bib.  The shop was not crowded this year, so it appears most runners got there either the day before or earlier in the day.  I was able to go to the front counter and collect my race swag with no issues.  I did a quick look around to see if there were new items I didn’t already have in my collection.  I got a small bag of CBD gummies on this trip but didn’t see anything else I needed or wanted.

    I left Track Shack and headed to Buffalo Wild Wings in Oviedo for my wings and beer.  Yes, I’m a creature of habit and normally have the same meal at the same location.  Fun fact, I don’t experiment with food or drinks prior to a race.  I learned my lessons a few years back.

    I made my way across the street to my hotel to get off my feet and relax a bit.  I also wanted to get in some extra stretching because my Iliotibial (IT) band has been causing me some issues.  The issues have not stopped me from running but there is a bit of discomfort.  No excuses! 😊 I went to bed early so I could get up and make the drive back over to Winter Park for the race.

    I had to park a little further out than normal this year.  I attribute this to the larger race field this year.  The additional distance allowed me more warmup time prior to heading to the start line to test myself against the Winter Park brick streets.

    I entered the race corral without a preconceived finish time.  I wanted to run a solid race and gauge my fitness levels before my longer races coming up in Louisville, Kentucky (10-miler) and Nashville, Tennessee (Half Marathon). I was not out to prove anything but wanted to test myself around the great Orlando running community.  I settled into my pace early in the race and focused on my foot rhythm and breathing.  It was another humid Florida morning, and I wanted to make sure I didn’t get out too fast.

    I started having real conversations with myself at the halfway point.  I always have a race strategy and started to focus on ensuring I stayed within myself.  The halfway point of this race has a small incline and a lot of runners decided to walk the incline and then start running again.  I slowed my pace but kept pushing forward towards the finish line.  The voices in my head went away and I just concentrated on putting one foot in front of the other—simple concept, huh? 😊

    The thing that made this race meaningful wasn’t just the distance. It was what it represented: another level of growth. At this stage in life, every run is an investment in longevity, clarity, and leadership. Running continues to teach me lessons that carry far beyond the pavement—patience, resilience, and the importance of showing up consistently.

    The 2026 Winter Park 10K reminded me that progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s steady, controlled, and deeply personal. And sometimes, that’s exactly what makes it powerful.

    Where do you get your power?

    Irie!

    “Racing is the fun part; it’s the reward for all the hard work.”

    (Kara Goucher)

  • Spring break 2026

    “Some of the best memories are made in flip flops.”

    (Kellie Elmore)

    My Walk into the Future continues to allow me to find new adventures in my daily life.  Negril, Jamaica has been my spring break spot for the past 6 years.  It’s almost an automatic go to spot for me that most of my friends and family know about.

    This year, I took a different approach to spring break, and it turns out it was exactly what I needed.

    I must confess that I looked at traveling back down to Negril to stay at my favorite spot, Samsara, on the cliffs.  The thoughts of relaxing on the cliffs, drinking rum and finding new reggae spots were very appealing to me.  The idea of snorkeling, sun and escaping to Jamaica again sounded perfect.  I made a different decision this year, well to be totally honest I waited too late to book my Samsara stay and the resort was sold out for the days I wanted to visit.  I am a creature of habit and never considered staying anywhere else but Samsara.  Yes, Cathy, Samsara is my spot when I visit Negril. 😊

    So, spring break 2026 saw me put my Jamaica dreams on hold, I stayed home this year.  No flights, no passport, no getting through the customs process at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.  No airport shuttle to take me to the West End of Jamaica and back home to Negril.  I was sad for a bit but viewed this as a new adventure.  There was no place to rush to, and I saw this as an opportunity to truly relax.  I’m not sure anyone has ever heard me say that phrase before. Fun fact, it can happen! 😊

    I thought about Jamaica a lot over spring break because I thought I was missing out on fun and adventure.  My new revelation during this time was I could slow down and still enjoy myself and it felt great!

    Morning routines became intentional instead of rushing to get somewhere. I woke up without an alarm, eased into the day, and allowed myself to just be. There was plenty of time to reflect, read, run and hit the gym.  There was no pressure to do it all, just the freedom to do what felt right in the moment.

    I experimented with a few new lunch spots in Fort Pierce to expand my rotation.  I’m not a foodie but this was an easy way to test out spots for a return trip in the future.  A big adventure for me was driving to Costco in Melbourne to walk around the warehouse.  It was a simple activity, but it was the highlight of my Wednesday afternoon. 😊

    My evenings were just as relaxing.  I was able to put my feet up and catch up on Amazon Prime movies.  I discovered I had access to a huge library of Kung Fu movies and watched them like a little kid.  No, I didn’t try to practice the fighting moves from the movies.  I’m a bit too old for that! 😊

    What I realized this spring break is that rest doesn’t have to be earned through travel or escape. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is stay still long enough to recharge from within.

    Jamaica will still be there. The beaches aren’t going anywhere. But this moment—this pause, this reset—that was something I needed this year.  This is a very simple concept but one that was necessary for me to live.

    Sometimes, the most powerful getaway… is staying right where you are.

    What are your thoughts?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Spring break is not a destination; it’s a state of mind.”

    (#ConnectEveryMoment)

  • Double Duty (Race Weekend)

    “There is magic in misery.  Just ask any runner.”

    (Dean Karnazes)

    The 2026 running season continues to drive me forward.  I set an aggressive race schedule for the year and decided to create a new endurance test for myself.

    Why?  I’m always looking for a new challenge that helps me celebrate life. 😊

    My training program is comprised of weekly runs that gradually build up to my weekend long runs.  Example: Tuesday 4 miles, Wednesday 6 miles, Thursday 5 miles and Saturday 10 miles.  This is an example of a typical training week before I enter marathon training.

    So, as you can see, my weekend runs are normally in the double-digit range, so this is no surprise to anyone following my running journey. 

    The title of this blog article is Double Duty.  Why?  Great question as always, Melissa. 😊

    I found a local 5k in Port St. Lucie on a Saturday morning (2/28/26) and a half marathon in Stuart, Florida on Sunday (3/1/26).  Both races are local to me on the Treasure Coast, and I decided running two races over the same weekend sounded fun and was a challenge I have never tried before. 

    The total mileage was not something that bothered me since I consistently run over 15 miles during a training session when I’m marathon training.  I didn’t know how my legs would recover from the 5k in time for the half marathon but I’m not afraid of trying something new.

    The Riverland 5k is new in the local running rotation.  This was the 3rd Annual running of this race and my first time giving it a run.  Riverland is a new development in the Port St. Lucie Traditions area—really nice place.

    I didn’t have a preset idea of how fast I wanted to run but I saw this as a test to my fitness levels as I prepare for my running tourist trips (Louisville, Nashville, Lincoln, Indianapolis, etc.).  There was a small group of runners at the start line, but everyone seemed to be excited to run.  I got a 2-mile warmup in before making my way to the start line.  I posted up in the back of the start corral and decided to let the race come to me.

    The 5k was on a paved running path that cuts through the Riverland community.  It was a simple out and back on the paved path with a few shaded areas.  Fast forward and I finished second in my age group with a time of 28:45 which was a 9:14 per minute pace.  I felt good throughout the race and was happy with my time, pace and fitness levels.  I knew I could have gone a bit faster but didn’t want to sacrifice anything before the half marathon the next day.

    I left the Riverland area and drove down to Stuart to pick up my race packet for the 2026 Game On Marathon of the Treasure Coast Half Marathon the next morning.  I ran this race back in 2022 but never signed up for it again.  It has a double bridge crossing, and I didn’t enjoy that aspect back in 2022.  I have a better mental and physical preparation process for bridge runs now so decided to give it another run this year.  The EXPO was in Veterans Memorial Park which is in downtown Stuart.  This was a no-frills EXPO, so I got my race packet and a few pictures before heading back home to prepare for the half marathon the next morning.

    I made my way to 2nd Street Bistro in downtown Fort Pierce to get some carbs in my system.  I went with my tried-and-true Chicken Parm dish with extra pasta and Bud Lights.  Running is a great way to not have to count calories, so I enjoy this aspect of the running process. 😊

    I picked out my race outfit when I got home and then got off my feet to rest up.  My bedtime was a bit earlier than usual since I needed to get up and drive back down to Stuart the next morning.  It’s about a 35-minute drive so I got on the road in plenty of time to find parking, warm up and stretch before race time.

    My legs felt good even though I ran the 5k the previous morning.  I didn’t formulate a race strategy while waiting in the start corral.  I wanted to run and finish strong and not put too much thought into a specific time—I know that sounds like an excuse but getting to my second start line of the weekend was already a win in my book.

    I posted up towards the middle of the race pack and waited for the gun to launch us on our 13.1-mile journey.  There was a lot of traffic as we crossed the start line, so I decided to relax at the start and let the race come to me.  It always thins out after the first few miles so there was no need for me to be in a hurry at this point.

    I was able to run consistent mile splits throughout the first half of the race and felt great at Mile 5 which was the first bridge crossing.  The course goes through a local neighborhood after the bridge crossing and there were a few spectators out on their lawns cheering for the runners.  The second bridge crossing was at Mile 10, and this is where I struggled a bit.  The wind and sun at this point were the elements we had to fight going over the bridge the second time.  I slowed a bit here, but I kept battling towards the finish line.  Side note—I need to get more incline and bridge work in before Nashville at the end of April.  I’m not ready yet! ☹

    The last 3 miles were all flat and I was able to make up some time in this portion of the race.  I crossed the finish line with a little kick and a large smile on my face.  I was smiling because I created a running challenge for myself and I was able to accomplish my task.  I made my way into the running village and grabbed food and Gatorade.  They didn’t have beer this year so I was disappointed I couldn’t drink at 9 am on a Saturday morning. 😊

    No worries, the double duty was complete, and I had a smile on my face.  I learned my training needs to improve prior to heading to Nashville but I’m not far off from peak running form.  I will get back in the running lab and work on my fitness to ensure my legs are ready for the hills in Nashville and I can enjoy the process.

    Double duty was fun—now back to your regularly scheduled program. 😊

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Running is the answer.  The question is irrelevant.”

    (Unknown)

  • Five Minute Thursday: Love running in cold weather

    “The cold clears your head.”

    (Anonymous)

    The Walk into the Future blog is my outlet to share my thoughts and have a creative outlet for my work.  I continue to amaze myself as I build content to share with my readers.  Who knew I had this much to say! 😊  I’m not this talkative in real life but I’m happy to have this platform to say what’s on my mind or highlight life adventures.  The Five-Minute Thursday writing prompt provides me with a new writing toy to continue to develop new levels to my writing process.

    This Five-Minute Thursday prompt is: I Love running in cold weather.

    Why do I Love Running in Cold Weather?

    There’s something special about stepping outside into crisp, cold air and starting a run. A lot of people stay indoors when cold temperatures arrive, but I head in the opposite direction—I lace up my shoes and embrace the chill. 😊

    Cold weather running feels refreshing in a way that’s hard to replicate. The air is clean and sharp, filling your lungs with every breath and waking up the senses. Unlike the heavy, humid heat, the cold keeps my body cool and this makes it easier to get into a rhythm and hit my mile markers on my daily runs.

    There’s also a mental edge to it. Running in the cold requires discipline, it’s my choice to get out and run in the cold. It’s easy to stay inside where it’s warm, but pushing past that comfort builds resilience. Every mile is a small victory, a reminder that growth often lives just outside of what feels easy.

    I also love the quiet that you get with cold weather. Cold mornings are still, with fewer people around and a sense of calm that’s hard to find at other times. It is just me, my breath, my Spotify playlist and the sound of my feet pounding the pavement—a moving meditation.

    Completing a run in cold weather is a form of celebration for me!  Finishing a cold run brings a deep sense of accomplishment. The warmth that follows, whether it’s a hot shower or a cup of coffee, feels earned in the best way.

    For me, cold weather running isn’t just about fitness, it’s about clarity, discipline, and finding energy in the elements. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences come when you lean into discomfort instead of avoiding it.

    I don’t get a lot of cold weather runs in since I live in South Florida, but I enjoy the few weeks of cold running I get here.  I tend to head to northern states for my longer races with anticipation of racing in cold or cooler weather.  This works sometimes as I ran my half marathon PR in Hampton, New Hampshire in October 2025.  I ran my marathon PR in Atlantic City, New Jersey in October 2025.

    I’m heading to Louisville, Kentucky (April), Nashville, Tennessee (April), Lincoln, Nebraska (May), Indianapolis, Indiana, (May), Hampton, New Hampshire (October) and Atlantic City, New Jersey (October) to get in some cooler weather.  I’m looking forward to getting a few PRs in this race lineup this year.

    Fingers crossed! 😊

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “It’s only cold if you’re standing still.”

    (Pinterest)

  • Five Minute Thursday: Pruning the Tree

    “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”

    (Dr. Seuss)

    The Walk into the Future blog works daily to bring a consistent level to the writing process.  I had to look back at my archives and discovered I haven’t used the Five-Minute Thursday writing prompt since April 2025.  I had a nice run going in 2024 but didn’t fully commit to this prompt in 2025.  I’m not sure how much I will leverage it in 2026 but I’m bringing it back now.

    I take an inventory every January as I’m creating my yearly goals to assess folks in my life.  I’ve mentioned in earlier posts that I purposefully remove contact from folks I don’t have regular communication with anymore.

    This Five-Minute Thursday prompt is: Pruning the Tree.

    This concept is not a way to be mean or diminish anyone I had contact with.  We prune rose bushes in early spring to promote new growth, maximize bloom production, and maintain healthy shrubs.  Pruning the rose bush helps it grow, makes it stronger and removes dead wood.

    Now imagine what happens to the tree (me) if I prune off limbs that are no longer beneficial or healthy.  My tree would not continue to grow and provide the shelter or comfort most of my tree branches need in life.  Pruning the tree is a natural process of growth for the tree, generates strong limbs and promotes growth.  The tree becomes stronger and allows the remaining branches to grow, spread and eventually create their own branches.  Yes, this is a longer metaphor than I expected but the concept has merits on growth and moving forward in life.

    How do I know which branches to prune?  Great question tree branches! 😊

    I look for tree branches that are no longer healthy or promote the direction I’m going in life.  This is not a condemnation on any tree branch but there comes time to move forward.  Does the tree branch help grow my Walk into the Future?  Does the tree branch continue to grow and provide comfort to others?  The tree branch must be pruned if the answer to these questions is no.  Simple, huh?

    It’s not that simple but I move on each year from tree branches.  The pruning is needed to enhance my Walk into the Future.  Just like the rose bush, I need continual growth.

    What do you need to prune in 2026?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “One of life’s lessons is always moving on.”

    (Roy T. Bennett)