“With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable” ― Thomas Fowell Buxton

Well, another year has come and gone. It’s crazy how quickly the years go by these days! Back in March (yeah, it took me awhile!) I finally declared my 2013 fitness goal to ride 1000 miles on my bike. On Nov. 14, 2013 I reached the 1000-mile mark. Today, I have a total of 1144.6 bike miles recorded for 2013. Mission accomplished!

So what! What’s the big deal, you say? There are a lot of people who bike 1000 miles a month and don’t tell a soul. For me, it’s about motivating myself to stay active and fit. Setting the goal, declaring it publicly, and publishing my results makes me accountable not only to myself but to everyone else who reads my posts. But there’s another reason to write about it here…it gives me an excuse to look back on the year and reflect on the amazing people, places, and things that touched, shaped, and inspired me.

First and foremost – I am so grateful for my fitness partner, soul-mate, keeper of my heart, Keith…thank you for the greatest gift of all – your love.

Caloosahatchee River Ride

At Sanibel Lighthouse

In Old Fort, NC

After Sarasota Half Marathon

Second – my work is my passion and my boss is my best friend as well as my fitness inspiration. Thank you, Brenda, for giving me the space to make my “life of work a work of art”.

Riding Clearwater bridges

Brenda and me at CREW

In Asheville NC on vacation

Family – I was lucky to spend some quality time with family this year…

Dad, me, mom

Three generations of Dorsett women

Wolfpack fans for life

Kennedy and Nicole

Cousins in Carborro

I’m inspired by special places and so thankful to be able to hike, bike, walk, travel, visit and learn in these beautiful spaces…

Cape Haze Trail

Alva to Muse, FL

Portland, Oregon

Asheville, NC

Ochlockonee Bay, FL

CREW – Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed

Venice, FL

Farm pond – NC home

Every mile walked, biked, hiked, traveled means better health, lifted spirits, connections to special people, places and moments. These are the gifts I choose to give myself by setting fitness goals that get me outdoors, strengthen me inside, and connect me with people and planet.

What are your goals and gifts to yourself? How do you choose to be healthy and happy?

As I look to 2014, I recall the words of John Dewey, “Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another.” And I see new adventures ahead and am eager to get started on a new goal…including biking in at least 10 different U.S. states! Let the adventure begin.