2011

Another great year has reached the end. For Shannan and I 2011 was a year of wonder, learning, growth and opportunity. Best of all it was another year with no regrets. The Streak remains intact and is moving into its 15th year! We continue to enjoy great health. For me the past twelve months provided lots of good running, I increased core strength as well as my balance and flexibility. In the fall, I finally got my head around Yoga, that does NOT mean I love it, but I found the benefits to be sure.

During the year we enjoyed many day trips and visited a record number of fairs and festivals. We traveled for research and pleasure; of course the sociologist in me is ever present. Our out-of-town travel took us to England, Morocco, and we sailed along coastal Canada via the Inside Passage. We stopped in all the “A” states: Arizona, Alaska, Alabama, and Arkansas. Other states included Virginia, Washington, Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, and South Carolina. We had a good year indeed.

With regard to running, the Frogtown Challenge Race provided the highlight of the year. It was great fun and a nice change of pace. I managed to place in it and all the races I ran throughout 2011, not bad for an old man. Seriously, reflections like theses work well in motivating me to go out harder, and run faster in 2012.

We have an ambitious travel schedule for the year to come, including a new continent, new countries and loads more local festivals. I hope to add a new athletic event as well.

We are grateful to have experienced a magnificent 2011. I anticipate an even better 2012.

Tom