Thankfully, it appears that we survived the first bitterly cold snap of the winter. For the better part of four days, I was not courageous enough to venture outside unless it was critically necessary. Instead, I preferred to sit with a hot beverage and a cozy blanket in the warmth of my home. Occasionally, I would glance out the window and see someone running or biking on the trail. Part of me envied their dedication; the rest of me thought they were foolish. I was born and raised in Minnesota, so I truly don’t know how I got to be so wimpy. During my self-imposed house arrest, I spent a lot of time reflecting on 2016 and making resolutions for 2017. These thoughts warmed me inside and out and lifted my spirits. Given that the new year is just around the corner, I thought I’d share these reflections and resolutions with you.
The year 2016 was full of accomplishments. I successfully competed in several races, including two half marathons and even a couple of 5Ks, a distance I hadn’t done in years. In March, I started this blog, which has been such an enjoyable and satisfying endeavor. I’m not your typical blogger as I write posts with varying frequencies, but it’s been so exciting to document my running career and share it with anyone who’s interested. I truly appreciate all the positive feedback I’ve gotten from my readers, and I wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to all! One of my biggest accomplishments of the year was the Prediction Walk/Run that I coordinated for my condo building neighbors. It was so worth all the planning and preparation to see everyone enjoy themselves on a beautiful fall evening. So, 2016 was a great year and I resolve to make 2017 just as great or better. Here’s how I intend to do that:
At the top of my list is participating in the 41st annual Grandma’s Marathon on June 17th. It was really hard not competing in this distance in 2016, but my body needed a break from the mileage. My training will start in February and I’m praying that it’ll go smoothly and without injury. I’m so excited to return to Duluth for this event and with lots of preparation and a little luck, I’ll do my 7th marathon.
Since moving to Minneapolis and leaving my coaching job in Plymouth due to the commute, I have really felt a void. Therefore, in 2017, I’m resolving to make a return to coaching. Just last week, I submitted my application to coach with a local non-profit group for girls in grades 3-8. It’s a 10 week program which concludes with a 5K race. I’m very excited to volunteer with this organization and help these girls develop confidence and and a love of running.
In 2016, I joined the Mill City Race team. Though I competed in several of the circuit races donning my fabulous race singlet, I wasn’t very committed to participating in workouts or group runs. I’ve been giving this some serious thought for 2017, and I really think I need to give it another try. Signups start in January. I want to resolve to be a better team member and also take advantage of the perks of being on a team again. Hopefully, I have a few PRs left in me, and training with the team will definitely provide the push I need to achieve them.
Every year, I resolve to do something other than just running. Normally, that includes strength and cross training. I definitely did better in 2016, but as always, there’s room for improvement. I need to remain committed to caring for my whole body, not just the few muscles used for distance running. In addition, stretching needs to be part of my regular routine, not just when injury threatens or has fully set in. Finally, I am starting to believe in the benefits of massage. I had my first massage in over 15 years this past October. It’s hard to determine how beneficial it was as I had just taken several weeks off from running and gotten new shoes; however, it certainly didn’t do any damage. Keeping my muscles limber and knot-free will help prevent injury, so I very well might become a regular customer.
In 2017, I look forward to once again coordinating the Prediction Walk/Run for my building, and I certainly hope to increase participation. I think I can build upon the success of this year’s event and maybe add in a few new things as well, with the help and support of our social committee. I’m so lucky to live in such a great building with wonderful neighbors who enjoy socializing and exercising with each other. I’ll be wearing my walk/run t-shirt and promoting the event all year!
Finally, I most definitely resolve to continue my Lifelong Runner blog in 2017. As noted earlier, I have thoroughly enjoyed writing these posts, even if I don’t do so as regularly as I’d like. I will work to think of creative and fun topics about which to write, while also continuing to document my training and racing.
I know it’s best to keep the list of resolutions short so they are achievable, so I will end the list there. Once again, thank you to my loyal readers and supporters for all your comments and encouragement. I certainly hope that 2016 was as good to you as it was to me, and I pray that 2017 brings you more blessings and happiness.
Be safe out there and stay warm. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you in 2017!
