Summing Up 2012

Miss Zippy suggested we answer six questions to sum up 2012.  So many of you (MCM Mama, Beth, Elizabeth) have done so and inspired me to join in.  I had fun looking over blog posts to help give my very best answers.

Best Race Experience(s): 

In March, I ran RNR New Orleans with Elizabeth.  S ran behind us the whole way.  I had never been to New Orleans before, and was amazed at how much of the city you experience on the course.  E paced me to a sub 2, and the three of us crossed the finish line together.  I wish every race course would let me see a city the way this one did.  If we lived closer, I would visit New Orleans for a long weekend every year.  What a neat place.

In August, I tagged along with B and L for what was intended to be their 50th state.  I spent the summer dreading this trip, dreading the weather in West Virginia, dreading my never ending plane ride across the country.  Boy, was I ever wrong.  The News and Sentinel Half Marathon and the city of Parkersburg provided the best all around race experience.  From the pre race pasta dinner, to the friendly locals, to the water stops (especially at the church near mile 7) and the surprisingly mild temps, I left loving West Virginia.  What a great surprise.

Best Run

All smiles on 4th of July

In June, I joined a closed Facebook page for Portland area runners.  I bravely reached out and was welcomed to run with some local women.  On July 4th, we met up for a long run and I had the best time!

Later in July, through the same FB page, I joined Maureen and Travis for my first ever trail run.  Maureen led the way and we finished 12 glorious miles on the Wildwood Trail in Portland.

Then, in August, I stayed with Alma in Seattle (right before Elizabeth ran Hood to Coast).  The three of us ran at Alki Beach, with spectacular views of Seattle, but not Mount Hood.

Clearly, my best runs weren't about pace or speed or time goals in 2012.

Best New Piece of Gear

While I love my iFitness racing belt, my Amphipod handheld, Saucony and Brooks running shoes, I already have most of the running gear I need.

But, in 2012, I tried a lot of new cross training and am thrilled to have a swimsuit (and swim cap) for lap swimming.

Running and racing with friends will continue to be my priority, but I know how important it is to mix it up a bit to prevent injury.  Swimming has become my most favorite no impact cross training.




Best Running Advice Received

Due to my large bosoms, I've had all kinds of chafing issues.  Body Glide helped, sometimes, but not always.  Mid 2012, I learned from my running buddy L, that Vaseline is the way to go.  I purchased a squeezable tube of it, and now apply under bra straps and bands before every workout and race.

Most Inspirational Runner

I am inspired daily by so many of you in the bloggy world.  Some have such crazy schedules with work and little kids, I don't know how you find time to work out.

For the next few months, I can't wait to read MCM Mama's posts about her training for 5 halfs in 5 days in March.  I had intended to participate with her, but it didn't work out.  As I read her training strategy and realize what she's taking on, I'm not sure I could do it and finish injury free.

If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be?

Lucky.  Lucky.  Lucky.

I met amazing friends to complete races in 16 states.  I can't believe I met LJ, IRL for the first time in February.  We proceeded to start 10 half marathons in 10 different states together in 2012.

S traveled with me to six states, and grudgingly ran RNR Portland, since I signed us up a year in advance.  I am lucky to have his support financially and as a travel companion.

I don't, for one minute, take 2012 for granted.  I thank all of you for your encouragement and support through my blog and in real life.  I am one lucky girl.