2010 Goals

Last year around this time, I posted a recap of the previous year's new year's eve, that year's new year's eve and a comparison of my goals vs. achievements of the past year.

Let's continue that January tradition.

This NYE was different than any before. It was the husband and my first NYE together - our first one in the same state, actually. Every year past we were in our respective hometowns for winter break, celebrating with high school friends.

So, it being our first year together at the turn of the year, we spent it quietly at home on the couch, with Chinese takeout from Fortune (best ever), champagne, candles, Seinfield Scene It and a South Park marathon. It was surprisingly fun and romantic.

My goal at the beginning of 2009 was to run a half marathon. It was decidedly doable. And I did it. But my real achievement was running the Chicago Marathon. It was the most amazing running experience I've ever had.

I want nothing more than to run another marathon this year - preferably Chicago again - but I can't commit to it until I know what's wrong with my knee. I haven't run since Nov. 7 :(

The weeks leading up to the start of the pain were some of my best running weeks ever. I was tackling hills, doing speedwork, not skipping workouts. I was really motivated for the half-marathon I was planning on running Jan. 23. Then it all came crashing down. Now I'm afraid of what might be wrong. And I'm afraid of how hard it will be to start from scratch again.

But as soon as I'm able to run again, I commit to training for a big race.

And assuming I can get back out there, here are the goals I set post-marathon and would like to stick to in 2010:

1) Run a 5K in under 25 minutes.
2) Run a half marathon in under 1:58:00
3) Run a marathon in under 4:10:00
4) Run a local half marathon.
5) Join a running group. I want running buddies!

I had another goal of dropping 5 pounds, keeping it off for a month and rewarding myself with a new pair of jeans... but I'm not sure how committed I am to that just yet ;)

As for non-running goals... I'm too tired to set any right now. Perhaps another month I will think about what I actually want to accomplish in this short life I have been given and set some concrete goals.