This afternoon I finished my 500 mile challenge with an 8 mile "run" at the YMCA, where I completed nearly all of my miles for the year. Much like when I completed my first half marathon in 2007, the end of the challenge was decidedly slower than the beginning. (I look like I'm standing on the finish line there, don't I?)
I did, unfortunately, have to use the creative accounting in order to make my 500 miles. Technically, I only recorded 480 miles for the year, although I am certain that I completed more than 500 miles when adding in all of my cool downs over the past 12 months.
Man, did this go by fast!
Since I am sad to think that I will no longer finish each run with a little notation on my calendar about how many miles I have completed for the year, I've decided to take reader Bobi's suggestion of having an open-ended charity challenge in 2013. This year, I will choose a charity that I actually believe in, and I will pledge to send them $0.50 for every mile that I run. I'm going to aim for 600 miles/$300, but nothing bad will happen if I don't make it that far.
Thanks to everyone for the wonderful support and funny comments through this journey! It's be a great year. Have a wonderful, happy and healthy 2013!
