The first mile or so was a little congested as the 5K and 15K runners all started together. However, by the time we hit the first mile marker, things were pretty good.

You can't have a chocolate themed race without some treats on course, right? At the first water station, we were greeted with strawberry flavored marshmallows. I passed on these - (1) they didn't sound to appealing (2) with 8 miles left to run, I didn't know how these would do with my belly (remember, nothing new on race day). The volunteers were all amazing though offering a lot of cheers, smiles, and high fives despite the weather.

Mile 5 greeted us with M&Ms! Ummmm, yes please! They were a bit frozen, but a little sugar jolt was appreciated and I knew these would be ok with my tummy. We also had a few spectators out cheering for us on this bitter morning which was so much appreciated - even if they told me there were 7000 runners ahead of me. HAHA!

The final part of the course is a bit of a bugger - I won't lie. Heading up Centennial Olympic Park Drive is a bit grueling as you go up a slight up hill for about a mile as you come up towards CNN, Phillips Arena, and the Georgia Dome (and future Mercedes Benz Stadium).

Now it was time for what we came here for - CHOCOLATE! We headed over to the Finisher Mug area to redeem our bib tag for our chocolate reward. The process went super smoothly and once again the volunteers were beyond amazing.

Yes it was cold. Yes there were times that we totally questioned our sanity for doing it. Yes we are happy that we did it! Thank you again to the team at Hot Chocolate 5K/15K, volunteers, and emergency personnel that made this morning possible. I know that everyone was cold but it was a great time and the runners really appreciate all that you did to make the morning great.

Oh yea, the swag. Check this out - Hot Chocolate 5K/15K doesn't do race shirts they give out hoodies. Seriously - how many race shirts just end up in a draw only to be warn a hand full of times (if that). This is my 4th Hot Chocolate 5K/15K race and their race swag is always great! These hoodies are legit and totally nice and toasty - perfect for days like this! This hoodie will definitely get its fair share of wear.