2012 Race/Running Recap

Good morning! My friend, Laura, at Mommy Run Fast, posted a recap of her year in running, and provided some questions for us to do the same.

 Here is my running and race recap of 2012!

Best race experience? I would have to say my first Half Marathon. When I signed up, I didn't think it was possible for me to ever run more than a 5k, but I wanted to push myself. So, I followed a training plan, and I DID IT!! A month later, I ran my 2nd Half. Next year I will be running 13! (Some virtual)

Best run? A 14 miler a couple weeks ago, my longest run yet. Again, it's just the feeling of accomplishment after pushing myself, and doing more than I thought I could do.

 
Best new piece of gear? My Brooks Pure Flow!
 
This was the first pair of shoes that didn't give me blisters and were comfortable. The first time I wore these, I got a 7 minute PR on my 5k and a 19 minute PR on my half marathon!
   
 Running ups? Same answer in the previous question- getting new PR's!

Running downs? Injuring my foot, and taking a week and a half off. I know that's not a huge amount of time, and I'm very thankful it wasn't longer than that. But it still felt like an eternity to me!

Best piece of running advice you received? There are so many! I guess the most important would be to not compare myself to others. When I read about other bloggers who have 25 minute (or less) 5k's, let that encourage me, not discourage me. And also to remember that not every run will be a good one- and to be okay with that.

Most inspirational runner? There's no way I could choose one. Honestly, it's all of my blogging friends. Reading your blogs encourages me to keep going!

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

Next year will be even better!
 If you've written a recap from the year, let me know, I'd love to read it!
Also, don't forget to enter my Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil giveaway! Ends Wednesday!