Wednesday, December 10, 2008

2008: Looking Back

Looking at my overall goals for 2008 that I posted in January, I am reminded that I had broken it down into three categories; Life, Health, and Fitness.
  • Life - I wanted to take more time to read, paint, and travel. I did do some reading but still not nearly as much as I would have liked. I still haven't really picked up a paintbrush, and now that I have a whole room to pull out the canvas' and acrylics, I shouldn't have the excuse that I don't have enough room. Depending on what you call travel, I feel like I succeeded in that area. I was able to get to AZ with my sister in April, multiple trips to the cities to visit my sister and brother-in-law as well as other friends and family, trips home to the Biz, a trip to my Dad's hometown for a wedding, and another trip to northern Minnesota for a friend's wedding.
  • Health - This is a constant work in progress, don't you agree? However, I questioned my overall health yesterday, when I turned 28 and realized that I am truly thankful for my health. I have been eating better, sleeping better, and taking my vitamins almost every day.
  • Fitness - I had soooo many races in mind and didn't know exactly what it was that I wanted to do. Even though I didn't get in as many races as I would have liked, I did get a few "firsts" in there ... my first (indoor) triathlon, which led to a purchase of my first road bike and then first road event; my first half marathon, a new 5K PR, and the first time I participated in below zero temps for a 5K.

Over the past year, I have made some decent gains. I remember when running 3 miles would leave me tired and sore, and I wasn't able to run back to back days. I am now comfortable with my running and ready to start doing more. I remember when a short swim used to be anywhere from 800-1200M, now a swim workout is usually no less than 2000M, 1600M at least. I remember when lifting wasn't in the picture... I have slowly incorporated that into my regular routine and it has made a world of a difference on my recovery after runs. I remember when sitting on a bike for more than 45 minutes was not only painful, but took everything out of me. Now it's just a short workout...

I am assuming my race calendar is coming to a close for 2008. After the bitter 5K Jingle Bell Run, I don't know if I have a desire to venture out in such temps before 2009 approaches. If, and only if, the weather is mild and above 15 degrees on the 28th, I will try and do the Zoo Year's Eve 5K back in the Biz with the 'rents.

In addition to those goals, the year was full of exciting things .... Sioux hockey games, 80's Rock cover-bands, winter storms, finishing my first year of teaching post-graduate school, March Madness (even though the Tarheel's didn't take the NCAA Championship Title but will this year), beer pong, 1st ride on the open road, teaching 1st grade special education summer school, house hunting, 4th of July celebration, sunburns, bachelorette party, house hunting, wedding, wedding, wedding, Olympics, house hunting, Twin's game, horse races, rain storms, co-ed softball league, Celtics take the NBA Championship Title, Itasca State Park with the Fam, Jonny Lang concert with a best bud, house hunting, starting second year of teaching within same district, purchasing a house, packing, moving, first snowfall, painting, unpacking, painting, purchasing new furniture, first snow to stick, start of NCAA basketball, turning 28 .... and now I am looking forward to the holidays with family and friends.

Stay tuned for what kind of crazy ideas I may, or may not, have up my sleeves for 2009!

26 comments:

Mel-2nd Chances said...

great job on 2008, looking forward to seeing your 2009 goals!

Unknown said...

It sure sounds like a great 2008 to me. I'm betting it will be an even better 2009! I know I'll be reading.

AddictedToEndorphins said...

Sounds like you had a great 2008! I can't wait for 2009! It just seems every year gets brighter, huh?

:)

Frayed Laces said...

Wow what a great year! What will 2009 have in store?

Badgergirl said...

Nice job! Can't wait to hear about 2009!

Unknown said...

What a great year you have had! And it's not even over yet.

Unknown said...

sounds like a great year.

I truly hope you find more time to pick up the paintbrush in 2009. I think it is something you would enjoyl. :-)

IronGambit said...

Is it that time of the year already where we are to talk about goals already!?!? :)

Anonymous said...

You really made some great strides in 2008.

The Tar Heels will take it all! Just look at their team, all great players.

Anne said...

I'd be quite proud and content with myself if I were you. That was a pretty ambititous list and you knocked off so much on it.

Marcy said...

Great 2008 chica! I know what you mean by (maybe) shutting the book on races for the rest of the year. It's too darn cold LOL

Sherry said...

What a wonderful year for you! Life is really good, huh!?! :o) Congrats on all of your accomplishments and may 2009 be even BETTAH!!!

Jess said...

2008 has been a busy and wonderful year for you! Can't wait to hear what you have in store for '09!

Carolina John said...

Wow, that looks like a full, fun, and satisfying 2008. I hope your 2009 will be just as good if not better. it could easily be better without having to move, huh?

Aron said...

wow what a great year!!!! i can't wait to see what 2009 has in store :)

I Run for Fun said...

What an exciting year. Good luck trying to top that in 2009!

BeachRunner said...

Congrats to you on a great job/post. Nice recap of the past year and an exciting look ahead. Keep on rocking, Teachy!

Michelle said...

Wonderful TW!!! I am glad you had a great 2008!

2009 can and will only be better and bigger!!!

I too am closing the book on 08 racing!!! I need a little break anyway!!!

Jess said...

Wow you have had a totally rocking year and accomplished so much! Awesome job! Can't wait to hear what your goals for next year are.

SavvyFitChica said...

Yeah, you definitely can be proud of what you've accomplished in 2008. I think it's impressive and inspiring. I've been very reflective lately on where I was a year ago compared to now and realizing how much stronger (physically, mentally, cardio-wise, muscles, etc) I am now. There's no reason why this time next year you can't feel EVEN better!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a great year. Here's to continued good health.

Mendy said...

Enjoyed reading your year in review. It was a great year for you! Congrats!!!

J~Mom said...

What a great year!! Congrats on meeting so many of your goals!

Ms Eva said...

It has been a great year! How will you top it in '09?? ;)

N.D. said...

You've had great accomplishments and tons to be proud of for this year!

Unknown said...

Your health is definitely a work in progress! After reading other blogs, I realized how much more work I need in order to be happier, healthier, etc.

Keep looking ahead!