Thanks for the memories

It was just about a year ago that I was lamenting over what a terrible running year 2007 was for me, that was until I received a gift that seemed to put the whole year in perspective. I ended 2007 by writing,

I can now look forward to 2008 and all that it holds for me and I look at 2007 a little differently than before. Go out and make 2008 your masterpiece.

Well, check and mate on that one. This year has been a dream for me, from a running perspective. Lots of memorable runs, a couple of half marathons and some great conversations over breakfast with my favourite running buddies helped to make 2008 so memorable.

But even with all the foot-strikes, all the hill climbs, and all the miles, my most memorable moment of 2008 had nothing to do with me. One of the greatest moments of my life took place on a chilly day in May watching my fellow Club members come home from a 13.1 mile journey through the streets of Halifax, an incredible feat for sure. The smiles were wide, the tears were flowing, the emotion was unbridled. It was a day, an experience, a life-changing moment never to be forgotten.

And as we close out 2008, I know many of my heroes from that Halifax finish line have signed-up for their first full marathon in 2009, an experience that won't just change their lives, but rather define them.

We all have so much to look forward to. Raise your bar. Leave your comfort zone. Demand more.

Happy New Year and thanks for the memories!