It’s the last day of the year and I feel like I should put the final stamp on the year so I’m not writing about 2014 tomorrow. I have so many things I want to say but I know it’s stuff that everyone wants to hear/read. 2014 was a great year for me. I found my voice in 2014 so in 2015 I hope I can gain some comfortability with my voice. I traveled across the world and across this great country. I ran two big dream races: The Great Wall of China and Marine Corps Marathon in the SAME year! I met some truly amazing people along the way too which has totally enriched my life. Most importantly, my quest found me. Next year will be one to remember, just like this year! So here is some of the bests of 2014:
The best thing I ate:
This one is a tie but I had them both in China so I think I’m allowed to have two choices.
The food at the Muslim restaurant in Beijing. It took us all trip to make it to this place and about an hour trip of transit transportation and walking to get there, but it was totally worth it. Hands down, Willie and I both think this was the best meal we had in China.
And these noodles that we had our first night in Beijing. The concierge pointed us to the spot and hooked us up when we got there. The staff was waiting for us to arrive and they really took care of us. I can’t deny these were the best noodles I’ve ever had in my LIFE!
My favorite moment in China:
I don’t want to keep my list filled with China things so this will be the last one. Visiting Confucius temple was so great for me. I could have stayed there all day and I would have if I were allowed. It was just peaceful there. So moving on from Beijing…
My favorite city I visited:
Yes I’ve been to Denver before, but I had never been to Denver like this. I stayed out of downtown and really got to see the city. I went to Boulder to visit Celestial Seasonings and I drove to Frisco to see some beautiful sights. It was a pretty amazing trip and I enjoyed every moment of it, besides getting hurt at the race.
The best race:
This one is hard because I ran so many races but each had its own ups and downs. While I didn’t enjoy visiting St. Louis, I have to admit I did love running the race.
Running these races is a great way to see a city and I really felt like I saw the city during this race. It was fun. The people were nice and it was all smiles. I didn’t know much about St. Louis before arriving but I think I got a good feel for the city. It’s a great race city.
The best time with my mom:
Spending time with my mom is Washington DC. I didn’t know she had never been so it was very cool to experience with her. I took my mom on that trip for a reason and it was completely personal. My mom is a constant reminder of strength for me. I am blessed to be able to spend as much time with her as I can. I sometimes take that for granted but I’m working on trying not to do that.
The best proud moment:
Seeing this man accomplish something he never thought he wanted to do. Enough said. He inspires me everyday!
The best friend moment:
Definitely having my friends there as I finished a marathon in New Orleans. I know people are generally not interested in what I do and to be honest, they may not be that interested. Most of the time, I cross the finish line and I’m there alone…or Willie is standing in the crowd. It was nice to cross the finish line and see my girls there.
The best blog post I wrote this year: The Deal with Changes
The best “great real” post of the year: The Overweight Stigma
The best lesson of the year: “Just be yourself and do what you want to do.” – constantly said by my wonderful husband, Willie.
What were some of your bests of 2014?
