Most popular post
My favorite foods on Weight Watchers: Readers loved this recap of delicious foods I enjoy and their corresponding point value.
Most popular dessert
Healthier peanut butter chocolate fudge: This delicious fudge recipe leaves out the butter and refined sugar in favor of coconut oil and honey, which have myriad health benefits. The end result is still a decadent, delicious dessert.
Most popular crock pot recipe
Three-ingredient pulled pork: So easy, so fast, so delicious, so popular!
Most helpful post
Ragnar Relay reflections and tips: I combined all the lessons I learned during my first Ragnar Relay to pass on the knowledge for future Ragnarians. Enjoy!
Most personal post
Why I chose an IUD: I don't mind evangelizing about my IUD, because it's been a great choice for me, my lifestyle and my five-year plan. It's still some of the best money I've ever spent.
Favorite race
April Fools 5K: This is my current 5K PR and was such a vindicating, validating experience. It was a nice little local race, too.
Favorite triathlon
Ironman 70.3 Racine: There's a reason Ironman races are the gold standard in the tri world. They put on a good show where everything is thought out. The whole community comes out and there are tons of volunteers. I worked so hard to get to the start line of this race and enjoyed every minute of it.
Best race shirt
Esprit de She Chicago 5K: This was a hot, sweaty race with an awesome post-race party. The race shirt was a cute tank from Athleta that I wear all the time.
Best post-race party
Venus de Miles Illinois Ride: So. Much. Food. The aid stations were stuffed with goodies from Whole Foods and the post-race party featured music, massages (we weren't there in time to get it), ice cream, a catered meal, vendors and giveaways.
Best race swag
Iron Girl Triathlon Lake Zurich: This was the biggest race packet I've ever picked up. There was a shirt, a custom swim cap, a personalized race bib, a ton of snacks and toiletry samples and Biscoff!
Best finishers' medal
Run River City (Peoria) Marathon Relay: This medal was so cool - it included an inset stained glass panel and 3D design on a custom ribbon. Very cool.
Favorite couples trip
Mexico: The resort needs a bit of work, but we had a great time. Lots of drinks, sites and bites made for a memorable week that fulfilled all my expectations for the honeymoon we never had.
Favorite solo trip
Sister trip to Seattle and Portland: Our first sister trip was a game changer. Mandy and I spent four glorious days tasting some of the best foods and drinks while seeing what makes the Pacific Northwest tick. I loved every minute of our excursion and hope to get back soon.
I'm looking forward to another year of races and places! Join me in 2014 as I tackle Ironman Wisconsin. Stick around, it's going to be quite a ride.