That was a good start to the year. I’m a big fan of the “start as you mean to continue” approach to a new year…and I managed to cram in a ride, a hike/run, and some writing.

Between Christmas and New Year’s, I got over 30 miles of riding in on Junior. Lucy spent Christmas holiday down here in AZ, so I went up a couple of times and rode with her.

As far as what the year holds…I really don’t know. Last year I did the “play it by ear” approach and had one of the most successful, interesting, enjoyable years in recent history. So I’m inclined to do the same approach this year — take things as they come, say “yes” to as many opportunities as is feasible, and stay flexible.

Catch riding is always a fluid situation…right now, I’ve got a good thing in place with Barb and her horses, but I’m just planning one ride at a time and we’ll see what the season has in store.

As far as running goes, I have nothing scheduled. I’m enjoying running just to run right now — no schedule, no training, no pressure. I’ve seen some really positive changes on the treadmill at the gym — speed and stamina have both increased, and I’m having to push myself pretty hard to get my heart rate elevated. I’m really liking my gym time…I may look into the feasibility of adding another day or two there. It’s been a slow process but I’ve definitely seen some positive changes over the past year+ in terms of strength and toning.

So that’s basically where I stand going into 2018. No concrete goals that I’ve really though of…which may change, depending on how the year progresses.