5:35

No joke. The difference was the 4th lap. For the first time, I felt strong. First lap was predictably good. 2nd and 3rd still lagging and painful. But 4th lap, while the pain was shooting through the legs, they were strong and determined. I don't read my lap times - because it's too dark - but I knew I had a good time when I finished. I thought 5:40, but was delighted to look at my watch and see 5:35. And it was windy, too. I guess I should revise my goal: 5:30 by spring.