As each year comes to a close, the common phrase, “I can’t believe 2022 is already over!” is used when there is a lack of anything else to say when we can’t quite identify the year’s highlights. Let’s face it, most of the time, it’s hard to remember what even happened during the year, let alone think about what is ahead the next 365 days. I consider myself fortunate. I’ve been incredibly blessed with the experiences of the past year. There is no way that I would be able to forget all the moments if I tried.
Looking back, I’m in awe of what I achieved. I ran five 5Ks (placed in my age group in 3 of them), two 10Ks (obtaining a PR), one 8K, two Half Marathons (obtaining a sub-2 hour), and ended the year by running two Marathons of a lifetime in Germany and Honolulu (obtaining a PR). Completing the BMW Berlin Marathon gave me my 3rd Abbott Star, getting me to the halfway point to the coveted Abbott Major Marathon Medal. Most importantly, I was able to share most of these experiences with my family. I made some wonderful lifetime friends overseas, as well.
It wasn’t all roses, though. This year, I contracted COVID in January, experienced shin splints numerous times, Runner’s knee several times, was attacked by two dogs during a training run, and suffered a fracture in my pinky toe, causing me to back out of my final race of the year. What is life without interesting stories, right?
In 2023, I have more exciting running adventures planned. The Gasparilla Classic Half at the end of February and the Cooper River Bridge Run 10K which I’ll be trying for more personal records. I also got accepted into the Chicago Marathon for the second time.
The year 2022 has been one heck of a year! It has humbled me, made me more resilient, and given me an even greater appreciation of my life and the people in it. I look forward to the lessons awaiting me in 2023. No doubt they’ll be doozies!
Happy New Year!
Runner's Notebook 