2012, The Year In Pictures

I was working on several versions of a year-end recap and then brilliant Katie posted this.  So, like any good blogger, I’m stealing it from her.

January

Spent an incredible weekend in Houston with sweet Nat, watching the Olympic Time Trials then racing the Houston Marathon.  An early morning adventure, the sun streaming as we yelled, “Goooooo Kara!”  Good times. I love this girl SO much.  She was there for me, even when I didn’t know it was her.  That’s how special she is.

February

February brought some much needed recovery time and the opportunity to pace a friend as she raced for 100 miles.  100 miles – in a row!  Such an honor to be by her side for the last 20 miles of this incredible journey. 

March

In March I raced my first ever sprint triathlon!  I didn’t stop smiling for days! Also had a great time spectating the Dallas RnR half.  We take our spectating very seriously ‘round these parts.

April

Triathlon numba two brought my first 70.3.  This is one of those moments I’ll remember for the rest of my life.  So blessed to experience it with my tri-bestie, Heidi.  First time we raced together – first of many!  Oh mah guah, we were so sunburned!  Looking forward to racing this one again in 2013 to see how far I’ve come.

May

Best Cheerers EVAH!

May brought my very first century ride. It was hot, windy, hilly and there were tears, thankfully, not mine.  But I did discover the secret to happiness is having a nut sack. Truth.  But the weekend to top all weekends? Volunteering and cheering at IMTX. 

June

I patted an alligator.  Went to a prom in a bicycle dress.  Enough said.  Oh yes, also raced another sprint. 

July

Photo by Mama C

Me n Violator made it to the top of Bobcat Pass

Started the month off with camping, fireworks of all kinds as well as waffles with my best frunners.  Oh yeah, and I rode through New Mexico on my new bike climbing all kind of mountains!

August

Photo by The Cyclist Could I BE more awkward?

Century numbah two and my first podium finish for triathlon.  Probably my last too, but it was a very special day full of surprises!

September

Early morning gymnastics

Some schmoopy before the last loop

Spent a lot of time at the lake, performing underwater gymnastic swimming at sunrise.  Pretty much held my breath for 12 hours straight while The Cyclist rode over 150 miles in the cold, rain.  Declared myself fat and happy.  The happiest. 

October

Photo by Dano

Raced some, dismally.  Spent a lot of time on my bike, smiling like a fool.  Met up with Dano and Dione in Austin, where I learned the disappointment of a race day DNS.  But I got to see this – such a special memory.  I can’t look at this photo without becoming entirely overwhelmed with how loved I am.  The most.

November

I felt the need to disappear a little in November.  In the best way possible.  Recharge. 

December

Restember over, IM training officially started.  I freaked out, a few times.  And of course, the best way to start any training program is to hurt yourself. 

It’s been a fantastic year and I have every expectation that 2013 will be even better.  I can’t say it enough, I am so very blessed. Surrounded by only the most incredible people to inspire me every day.  And who are encouraging and supportive and loving in all that they do.  I don’t know how I found such an amazing group of individuals, but I’m so thankful that I have.  I couldn’t do it without y’all!