Goodbye 2012. Hello 2013.

A new year.  A new beginning.  Before we can set new goals, we need to reflect on the previous year.  I ran 939 miles over 238 days in 2012.  When 2012 started, I did not have any expectations.  I just wanted to get out there and run.  Maybe train for a full or half marathon.

Instead, I evolved as a runner.  As much as I was enjoying Running Without a Watch, I was still focused on time.  I really wanted to break 40 minutes for 5 miles.  I finally just started focusing on getting out there and having fun.  Over the summer, I made it out for long runs of 7 and 8 miles.  I even did 13 miles in a weekend, with a combo of a Saturday night and Sunday morning run.  I cut back on my running with music significantly throughout the year and over the summer I gave it up completely.  I was just getting bored.  I even stopped my IPOD in the middle of a run and never looked back. 

I have achieved a nice running balance in my life with running.  Instead of trying to get out there  every day, my goal is at least 20 days a month. On the days I do not go for a run, I spend my time getting things cooked or chopped around the house and having a date night with my wife.  Now instead of focusing on distance, I am very happy if I only have time to get out there for a short run.

I have also become more relaxed with my diet.  I eat a lot of fruit and vegetables during the week.  I try to eat homemade as much as I can.  I still go for whole wheat first, but if all we have is white, I will eat it.  I gave up caffeine towards the end of the year and I am loving every minute of it.  I am able to treat myself when I want to and not get carried away.

For 2013, I want to run 1000 miles over 250 days.  This is about 85 miles over 21 days.  It is feasible,  I will also have days off during the month, to help avoid burnout.  I am planning on running my first race, It will be a 10k in early March..  I am very excited.  I want to try to cook a new recipe each month,. I also hope to finish my book sometimes this year.

How was your year 2012 and what do you have planned for 2013?