At the end of every year, I revisit the past 365 days by looking back at the places my running shoes have taken me. You can tell a lot about a year based on your runs. In January, I was certain 2018 was going to be my year for running. I had a renewed fire in my belly along with speed in my legs to chase some big goals and conquer some bucket list races. I hired a coach, was running strong and then … well … I’m not quite sure what happened. I simply lost the edge and enthusiasm that was there. One minute I was knocking out 13-mile runs with some 7-minute miles thrown in, and the next I had zero desire to race and couldn’t seem to break the 9-minute per mile threshold on any of my runs. Kaput.

2018 was probably my worst year of running, but it turned out to be one of my best years overall. I may not have completed any of the running goals I initially thought I wanted to accomplish, but I learned a lot about myself and what’s important to me in the process. I found peace with my running. I’m not chasing something unattainable or trying to be something I’m not. I’m finding joy in sharing miles with friends and seeing the sun rise on Saturday mornings. I’m prioritizing the priorities and living in the present. I’m not worrying about mile splits, long runs or weekly mileage. I’m simply running with no agenda (and as little personal judgement as I can muster).

There were times in my life that running took up too much of my share of mind and heart. Today, it’s right where it should be. Perhaps my #2018BestNine shows visually where I’m at better than I can verbally express it. The Best Nine are your nine most liked photos on Instagram during the year. Out of 141 pictures I posted and nearly 23,000 likes, these were the ones you liked the most. Family and my new business were my priorities, and it showed in my running and in my life.

My running journey is far from over. I’m training for life these days rather than marathons. I realize it isn’t as exciting to read about, but we find lessons learned and inspiration in every season of running and every stage we’re in.

Here are some of my standout runs and adventures from 2018.

New York City (February)

I had 45 minutes of free time while in NYC for a work trip, and I used every minute of it for a run.

Savannah, Georgia (April)

In April, I ran the Savannah Half Marathon. I ran this race in 2015 and loved it, but the course wasn’t as kind to me in 2018. This race sort of broke me. I’m not sure why, but my running and mojo hasn’t been the same since. From mile one it was a struggle, but it is always pretty running through the squares and streets of Savannah.

Deadwood, South Dakota (June)

Another half marathon in 2018, another ride on the struggle bus. This time I was in South Dakota. Although my body never cooperated with my heart, my heart was certainly full during my weekend in South Dakota. Not only did I get to experience my friend Elizabeth’s final state in her quest to run a marathon or half marathon in all 50, I also got to travel with my mom and visit Mount Rushmore, which had always been on her bucket list. This race weekend was one I’ll never forget.

Seattle, Washington (June)

Escaping the Florida heat for a weekend in Seattle with my Brooks Running family was just what the doctor ordered. I soaked in the cooler weather and the community of amazing runners Brooks has brought into my life on a weekend celebrating the Special Olympics USA Games.

Orcas Island, Washington (July)

After leaving Seattle, my family joined me for a two-week adventure across Washington. We celebrated the Fourth of July with a 5K on the beautiful Orcas Island.

Lake Crescent: Port Angeles, Washington (July)

One of the most beautiful places I visited this year was Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. This run and these views will be etched into my memory for eternity.

Kalaloch Beach: Forks, Washington (July)

My final run in Washington was along the Pacific Ocean. This run was straight out of the pages of Runner’s World.

Stowe, Vermont (October)

We escaped the Florida heat and humidity once again for a getaway in Vermont. While the trip didn’t go exactly as we planned, this run was one for my personal record books in terms of beauty and weather.

Orlando, Florida (December)

Last but not least, my final run was in one of my greatest happy places: Disney. My husband, daughter and I travel to Disney at least 10 times per year, and the familiar roads around the Disney Boardwalk feel like home. It was the perfect way to end my year of runs on the road.

Where were your most memorable runs of 2018? Where are you most looking forward to running in 2019?