Happy New Year from Auckland

This year we're celebrating the new year in Auckland, New Zealand, which is the first to welcome 2010. We stayed up to watch the fireworks on the Sky Tower at a park near Russell's parent's house. The view was perfect and the moonlight was delightful.





Like many people do at this time of the year, I took a bit of time to reflect on 2009. I went through a number of personal trials that really tested my emotional strength and will. Through the struggles I found a new appreciation for my family, friends, the people who are around me every day - professors, classmates and those who share my love for running. But especially for my love and partner of ten years, who stuck by me through thick and thin and carried me through some of the toughest times in my life. Without his unrelenting love and support I simply would not be standing on my feet today.

I feel like a different person from a year ago. I look forward to the new year with much more excitement, anticipation and optimism. I think that alone tells me that despite the adversities, 2009 was a good year. I can't wait for 2010 to start. It's going to be a fast, hot and absolutely fantastic one.