Thanks to Tricia from Missisippi Piddlin’ for pointing out a series from Lisa Jacobs.  From Dec 27 to Jan. 2. Lisa had daily prompts with questions to think about in order to reflect on the past year. 

Although it’s over, I recommend checking out her blog and looking at the prompts.  They are really thought provoking.

Here are the ones from Day #1:

• What was time very well spent this year?

 My 12 weeks of unemployment. 

Yes, it was stressful but I was able to play tennis most mornings and met a lot of neat ladies.  I was able to run whenever and wherever I wanted. And most importantly, I discovered hiking and enjoyed doing it by myself.

• What was money very well spent this year?

 Every single race fee. 

 I love racing.  I don’t regret any race that I paid for (even $50 for a NYC 5k.).

• What are your favorite memories of 2016?

I have quite a few but the most memorable experiences of 2016 were running in NYC with my Russian friend Anna and the girls weekend in Panama City Beach that I spent with 7 other bloggers.

• What did you accomplish or complete this year?

Found a new job. Ran many races of varying distances and in a variety of locations. Completed a hiking challenge.  Most importantly, had a healthy year (no illnesses or injures).

• Did you make any progress on long-term goals?

I hadn’t set any official long-term goals. But if I did, they would be to remain active and healthy (as I age) and to be financially able to retire someday.

So yes, I did have a active and healthy year. I ran 1046 miles. 

On the retirement front, I am employed but I am not progressing as much I would have liked on the financial front.

• What felt successful about the year, as a whole?

Probably my running. 

I mean I ran 43 races including 7 half marathons and had zero injuries. I won many age group awards. Over 20!

• Did you overcome any obstacles or mental blocks this year?

I had resigned myself to getting older and slower but I did PR at the half marathon distance.  A happy surprise. Under 2:09!!!

• What did you learn about yourself after all that happened in 2016?

I learned that you have to be patient.  And that I’m generally not a patient person.

I also learned that sometimes you have to accept that “things happen for a reason.”

I learned, as well, that I’m not ready to retire. I like having an active (outside the home) life.

• Who nurtured or supported you most this year?

My hubby, of course, and all my friends. 

They listened to me during the trying times and were there to  share my successes, as well.

• Who did you enjoy nurturing and supporting?

That would definitely be the STEM runners and my mentee Amanda. I hope that I made a difference in their lives.

Happy Running! Feel free to answer any of these questions in the comments.