Obviously, I suck at New Year's resolutions. If I didn't, then this blog would have nearly 52 entries from 2012 and I would be 12 pounds lighter. Oh well. I guess it turns out I'm human after all.
However, my inability to complete these resolutions does not make me a complete failure; nor does it mean this year was a waste either. Far from it! Looking back, I find that 2012 was, in fact, one of the best years of my life. I've grown in many ways, accomplished feats I previously considered impossible, and experienced God's overflowing Love and blessings.
I was able to keep just one of my New Year's resolutions - to participate in and complete twelve events in one year. Actually, I slightly exceeded my goal and did thirteen! Friday, I wrapped up the year with the Santa Run, a five mile run accompanied by Christmas lights, Christmas carols, and Christmas costumes. I won't go into details about the run itself, but as I crossed the finish line, I couldn't help but feel proud of all that God has allowed me to accomplish these past twelve months - five 5ks, two 8ks, one 10k, two mud runs, two triathlons, and one really long bike ride to Charleston. That comes out to 45.2 miles run, 276 miles ridden, and about 700 meters swum (or is it swam?). All together, that equals a total of about 321.5 miles covered. And that's not even counting all the training it took to be prepared for all the races!
I am not writing all this to brag. Rather, I'm stating it in near disbelief. It is amazing to me what God allows the human body to do. With just a little discipline and determination, we are capable of great things! When I began this year, I was a sorry excuse for a runner. While I am still nothing amazing, I have come a long way personally. 5ks used to be daunting to me, but now they're just another "walk in the park," so to speak. I can now jog comfortably for 30 minutes without feeling like I might die. I am also much less scared of riding to Charleston in three days. After this year, nothing really seems impossible or out of reach anymore. Maybe one day I can actually accomplish a half marathon or a half Ironman. It would take a lot of hard work and perseverance, but it could be done!
I praise God for... well, everything! I can't name just one or two things because it wouldn't be enough. Without the two strong legs, beating heart, and air-filled lungs He gave me, none of this would be possible. He is good, and I am grateful.
I'm not sure what next year holds. I haven't decided yet if I want to try this same feat again or tone it down just a little. But I'll be sure to let you know. :)
