Time for some random thoughts (fueled by coffee of course) and a look back on November. I really cannot believe it is almost December. This year has really flown by, but in a good way ❤ 

And, that means it is my 39th Birthday in less than a week. The last year of my 30s, wow!

1. The most memorable moment in November for me was when I completed and set a Personal Best in my 7th marathon earlier this month in Port Austin. This was my first fully sober marathon! And, I felt so good during the race. For months, I contemplated not running marathons anymore. Marathon training is exhausting and I was beginning to give up hope that I would be able to PR in a marathon ever again. I doubted if running Boston someday was my dream anymore. I even doubted if running was for me anymore. I felt like an impostor. 

That contemplation felt sad, and boy was I wrong! I finished the Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon in 3:52:13! Almost two minutes faster than my previous PR! Sobriety had A LOT to do with it. My HR was manageable, I was evenly breathing the entire time, and I had more left in the end. I honestly could have been a little bit faster! Marathon racing is SUCH an art, and I love trying to perfect it. I paced myself evenly, and everything went my way, which felt incredible tbh. I owed it to myself to get my health back on track. That is what I did for 5 entire months, and it paid off. I am proud of myself. 

I had only been to Port Austin once before running the marathon, two years ago. 

Port Austin is such a cute, quaint lakeside town. Since the marathon I ran was early November, most restaurants or stores were celebrating their last day being open for the rest of the year. I got to try Bird Creek Farms, which was my first meal after my marathon. 

After race day dinner, we went to the Port Austin Marina and walked the pier. Our Airbnb was basically at the marina which was neat because we had great views and close access to the pier.

The day after the race, we explored some other small towns around the area as well as some hiking trails. One hiking trail led us straight to Lake Huron. The view we had was incredible: a pine tree lined forest trail that led us to breathtaking views of the deeply blue colored water of Lake Huron. I’m glad I got to share this with my partner.

Later that day, we went to Battle Creek and went to Rosie’s for dinner, a local steakhouse a local Port Austin resident recommended. The food was delicious.

2. I went to my 21st Blue October concert. I went with a few friends and we had a great time! One of my friends flew up from Florida to visit me and go to the concert. It was so nice catching up and seeing her. 

Blue played all the favorites and some older songs I haven’t seen live before. Then, after the concert, I got to talk to Justin about sobriety, and he signed the merch I bought! It was such a good night. 

3. I went on my first ever out of state work trip

I traveled to Phoenix, Arizona for my company’s annual conference. I am proud of myself for not just showing up to work on this trip, but thriving at my job. I work from home and just started this job in April. I was excited to meet my coworkers. However, I have to admit I was anxious at the thought of interacting with 500 plus conference attendees for three days. Yet, I survived and actually had fun! I was able to manage my social anxiety and thoroughly enjoy meeting and talking to new people. It felt great to interact with people without the fear of anxiety. Sure, I was anxious, but I didn’t let it scare me and I remained positive and focused on being grateful to have a job where I can travel to cool new places. When I engage in positive self talk and a gratitude practice, my perspective completely changes. 

4. FINALLY bought a new winter coat and boots 

I honestly can despise winter at times. But, I am not moving any time soon and I need to reframe my thoughts so that I am not stuck in a negative loop. Sure, it is cold in Michigan. But, if you have the ability and privilege of buying some high quality winter gear, winter can actually be tolerable and even enjoyable. I am still learning the art of layering, but I think I am getting there. 

I got a new winter coat, base layers from Smartwool: top and bottom, and boots. I am grateful for being able to be warm and cozy. 

Bring on December!

What was your favorite moment from November?

What are you looking forward to in December?