Confession: I don’t really want to look back on this year. I mean, I DO because it’s over and I’m happy about that but I DON’T because whenever I think about it, I cry.
And not pretty cry. I ugly cry about it.
It seems like a far-off nightmare that I have only just recently woken from to realize that I have my life back and can do the things I like/want to do instead of planning my day around bathrooms and getting shot up with poison.

I much prefer to be out running that doing most any other thing. (Image courtesy of MK Photography)
Instead, I prefer to say I learned a lot of stuff in 2012.
- I learned that my husband is THE BEST.
- I learned that sickness can bring people together & make relationships stronger.
- I learned who my friends are, cliché but true.
- I learned that father-daughter bonding happens over the strangest conversations.
- I learned where every single bathroom in Central Park is located & which I prefer.
- I learned that videos of my niece make me smile even while drugged up post-op.
- I learned that I am smarter than I give myself credit for.
- I learned that a mother’s instinct extends well beyond childhood.
- I learned that flowers & cards make me happy when I’m blue.
- I learned that I am only limited by myself.
- I learned that scars don’t matter so much as the story behind them.
- I learned that Twitter & Facebook can be places of great support.
- I learned that there is life both in & after sickness.
- I learned that my brothers & sisters are seriously awesome.
- I learned that I love running more than I thought I did.
I learned that change is a part of life but it’s what I do with the opportunities I’m given that will define me.

Catch you on the road in 2013! (Image courtesy of MK Photography)
I’m ready for 2013 and all the adventures it holds, including: no fewer than 2 new babies, 4 weddings (& counting…), my first clinical rotation, several half-marathons, a 200 mile relay, and maybe another 26.2 to round out my total to 10.
I’m ready.

Looking ahead, never behind. When I look back for too long, I tend to trip & fall. (Image courtesy of MK Photography)
What did YOU learn in 2012? What are your goals for 2013?
Happy New Year!
Now go out and run.
Abby,
Great thoughts on 2012 and anticipation of 2013. Always keep focused ahead and only check the rear view mirror periodically, it’s the stuff that’s ahead that will be the most rewarding.
Love, Obi-Wan
Thanks, Daddy-o. Yo da man.
It’s great to hear how excited you are for 2013. I can’t believe you are going to have 2 babies, get married 4 more times, and adding in all that running around! All kidding aside, I too look forward to 2013. I learned so much about myself and my UC in 2012 and it makes the world of difference. I am looking forward to expanding that learning curve in 2013 and all it has to bring. Ok, gotta run…oh wait, that’s you…kidding again.
It’s a lot, but I think I can do it 😉
So inspiring and what beautiful pictures!! Happy new year, girl! 🙂
Thanks, lady!
Stronng and beautiful. Peace and blessings.
Awwww, thanks MC 🙂
Such great lessons Abby and LOVE your photos! Happy New Year!
Happy New Year, Christine!
Here’s to an amazing 2013, Happy New Year!!!
Here! Here!
You persevered through a tough year, no doubt about it, and you’re *so* overdue for a butt-kicking year. Here’s to a great 2013 filled with lots of running and PR-ing! 🙂
I’ll take that! You too, Carrie 🙂
Great thoughts on 2012! I learned a lot about the importance of family members during 2012! 2013 is going to be an amazing year! Also – the photos are wonderful!!
Love it, Ashley.
I love this. Congrats to you for getting through 2012. You went through so much and you still managed to do for others. Namely, me and my family. Thank you for everything and for being an inspiration.
Oh jeez, Jen. You guys powered through with determination like no other. Welcome to a New Year!
Last photo and caption are perfect! I felt that for you it was a sweet moment. Happy New Year!!!!!!
Xo
Cakes
Love you, Cakes!
What a great post! I hope that 2013 is turning out to be a better year!
In 2012, I learned that not taking care of yourself and stress can take their toll and that I will have to make changes in 2013 for a healthier life!