Sunday, August 18, 2019

This week's Fitness? All kinds of "F" bombs...


This week had so many "F-it!" moments...but all in a good way.

Perhaps I should elaborate, a bit? We're talking fitness, after all. Some of these moments were fun and freaky, some demanded unexpected flexibilty with my schedule, and there may have been a few (or several) filters used in the pics highlighting said moments.

But, first things first...

Welcome to the Weekly Run Down! I am so excited to host this link-up with Deborah (from Confessions of a Mother Runner). If you write a fitness-based blog, you're invited to join the party. The link-up opens at 1:00 (EST) on Sundays and remains open through noon on Monday. We love reading about everyone's weekly fitness endeavors, training highlights (or low lights) and race recaps. We ask that you link back to both hosts, and we encourage you to read/comment on the other linked blogs as well...please don't link-drop & dash ;-)

Anyways, here's the latest Weekly Run Down from my little world of fitness:

Monday - key words: fog and fast
Let's just say, it looked rather eery and foggy when I headed out for my #nevermissaMonday run at 5:30a.m. It actually looked more like a horror film setting with all the heavy fog blurring the light from the street lights. I ran three miles (with 1/4 mile surges), but decided to keep it on the college campus where I'd have lamp posts every 20 feet or so.
Image may contain: one or more people, people standing, shoes and outdoor

Tuesday - key words: fog (again) and fatigue (courtesy of Toby Keith...see below)
After a rather fun-filled late evening, my energy level was pretty low. Tuesdays are typically an active recovery day for me anyways, so not a big deal. I saddled up Gustavas and rode 10 miles before heading to work.
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Wednesday - key words - fatigue (again) and feet (as in blisters...ouch!)
Despite another late night spent at the Iowa State Fair (with my friend, Barb, none the less) the weekly #5at5 was still happening. The temps were somewhat cool (low 60F's), and the air a bit humid, but the run went surprisingly well considering our lack of sleep.
Image may contain: one or more people, sky, shoes and outdoor

Thursday - key words: fatigue (yet again) and flexibility (with my fitness routine)
By Thursday morning, I was about nine hours behind on sleep (from Monday's and Tuesday's evening antics at the fair). Usually, I'm doing HIIT or speedwork on Thursdays, but there was no way that was happening with my tired body (and foggy mind). Also, with both of my early-morning fitness buddies (as well as the hubby) out of town on Friday, I wouldn't have anyone to ride with me out to the lake. I decided to go for a 10-mile ride (in town) instead and skip the intense workouts for the day. Turns out, it was the best morning ever. Had I ridden to the lake, I would have had this glorious sunrise at my back....isn't it a beauty? Don't worry, that pic is the real deal (#nofilterneeded).
Image may contain: sky, bicycle and outdoor

Friday - key word: fatigue (still!)
How did I know I was still feeling quite fatigued on Friday? Well, (1) I didn't wake up before my alarm and (2) I actually dozed back to sleep for almost another hour! That said, my 3-mile run actually went well, and a bonus of over-sleeping was that I got to enjoy full daylight for the entirety of those miles (#glasshalffull).
Image may contain: one or more people, people standing, cloud, sky, shorts, outdoor and nature

Saturday - key words: freaky (as in clouds), family and (total) fulfillment
With Barb still out of town, I was batting solo for my long run. I have done many long runs alone before, so it's not a big deal, but it had been a long time since I'd run more than 10 miles without anyone to talk with or keep me on task with my pace. Alas, I was up at 4:30, and out the door by 5:05. Since it was dark, I kept the first seven miles close by...looping around the college campus (clockwise, figure-8, counter-clockwise...you get the idea LOL). I stopped back at the house for a potty break and fuel, and finished the remaining seven miles without a hitch (well, except for my Garmin dying at the 12.5-mile mark and the crazy clouds threatening rain). This run really felt good, though my mile splits (the ones before the Garmin died) were a bit scattered. Later, the hubby and I had breakfast with the PA daughter (back in the area for more training at her company's HQ).
Image may contain: one or more people, people standing, cloud, sky, mountain, outdoor and nature

Following that, he and I rode the 15-mile hilly bike path to the lake (so, yes, a double workout day for me). The other daughter surprised us with a quick visit, and then we headed out to meet up with the son for some shopping and dinner. A long day, but getting to spend time with all three kids was fantastic! Absolutely NO regrets.

Sunday - key words: Fate, fatigue (have I said that yet?) and flexibility 
I'm a strong believer in the universe talking to us...and I do my best to listen. Case in point, I crashed on the couch (Saturday night) a couple hours before my usual bedtime. Then, I slept-in a good three hours later than normal. I also awoke to heavy rain...so the routine recovery run got postponed. Instead, I opted for some extra stretching and TLC. I'd still call that a win-win.
Image may contain: one or more people and indoor

...and, by late morning, out came the sun and dried up all the rain. I got out for a couple of easy-paced miles, and my recovery run was complete. The afternoon also included several garden squats in the sunshine.
Image may contain: 1 person, standing, outdoor and nature

So, a crazy week! I seriously think I spent the majority of the week in a continuous state of fatigue (and blistered feet). Thankfully, the running went well,  27 miles for the week are in the bank. There was some substantial walking (14 miles at the time this post goes to press), and the biking continues to be my new favorite "recovery" fix...35 total miles in the saddle this week.as well. Unfortunately, there wasn't much else happening...there was daily planking, lunges (part of a 2-week challenge group) and intermittent push-ups, but that's all she wrote. I'm totally fine with that, though. Speedwork, HIIT and strength-training are regulars in my regimen, so skipping them once in awhile is not gonna set me back in any capacity. Onward!

In case you missed out, here's what went down on the blog this week:
There's the SUN, Let's get it DONE
Running - Doing it My Way

In other news:
Friday Fashion Flair!   In going with the "F" theme, I could feature (see what I did there?) the word freezing, because it's always cold in my office.  Thankfully, I have a slew of cardigans at my disposal to keep me (somewhat) warm in the heat of summer. I could have grabbed the standard solid black cardi, but why not go with the black and white cheetah print? It adds a bit more interest and funk to the kiwi green tank. As always, the invitation stands... join us with a pic of your Friday outfit. Grab the hashtag (#FridayFashionFlair) and tag me (@runningonthefly).


The Iowa State Fair!
As mentioned, I went to the Iowa State Fair, not just once this week, but twice. The hubby, youngest daughter (and boyfriend) and I saw Toby Keith on Monday evening, and he put on a fantastic show. I'm not much of a country music gal, but I do like his style because he's so quirky. He's also done a lot of USO work, supporting our troops overseas, which I totally admire and respect. My hubby served for 31+ years, after all, so my appreciation for the military is strong and quite personal. Funny story...since this was a big-time "country" endeavor, I felt it appropriate to dress the part. I borrowed the glitzy boots from a friend, and my poor feet paid a dear price (numerous blisters, even with socks on). But the boots were fun and I'd do it all over again (fashion before function).




On Tuesday night, Barb and I went back to the fair, this time for a rock concert (any Midwestern friends heard of Hairball?), and met up with another friend. Holy Loud Music, Batman...my ears were still ringing on Thursday morning!  My phone's pedometer must have thought I was walking nonstop, giving me credit for 2+ miles of walking EACH night (though I actually may have been dancing to the music LOL). Both nights were fun, but we didn't get back home until well past my (usual late) bedtime. None the less, I'd gladly do that all over again, too.

So, tell me about your week! Are you in training for a big race? Did you have an unusually large amount of fog this week, too? Ever gotten major blisters from borrowed boots? Would you sacrifice sleep for a great time with friends?

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58 comments:

  1. Love your fair outfit! Looks festive, appropriate, fun and cute! and great job this week. sorry about your blisters and fatigue, but you still got in some good workouts!

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    1. The fatigue has finally worn off...totally worth it, though ;-) The blisters...well, they're feeling better....

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  2. You really had such a busy week - I'm surprised you were able to keep up with all of your workouts! Awesome job this week with everything, from running, to bike riding to active recovery :)

    I need to go to the Iowa State Fair one day!

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    1. Yes! Come join me at the fair!! Actually, it's not usually my scene (lots of interesting folk there, if you know what I mean LOL), but it's kind of one of those epic things I always feel compelled to attend....

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  3. I've posted the same on you and Deborah's posts in the hopes that the other lovely link-up ladies see, too.

    I have to apologise to everyone else whose blogs I follow, and to you lovely ladies - no update this week and I hardly read anyone's blogs last week let along commented on them, and have only just responded to the comments on mine today. Our pet cat has been very poorly and between medicating and nursing him and cleaning up while trying to get my work done, I've lost my running and yoga this week, didn't read blogs, didn't reply to comments, didn't even READ for a couple of days. Things are a bit brighter now but only one 4.5 mile run all week to report so no round-up from me.

    I can't post personal stuff on my own blog as family members I'm not in contact with read it and will intrude, so hope people see it here. And as, I speak, kitty is feeling a lot better but we have a way to go before we're out of the woods with him.

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    1. Oh, Liz, so sorry for all the trouble and stress with your cat. I hope his health continues to improve, and things turn around for all of you <3

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    2. Liz don't worry. Life happens and we all understand how important a family pet is. A poorly pet can wreak havoc for sure. hoping you are ok xx

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  4. It sounds like you had a fun and busy week! Local fairs are fun so I can imagine how much fun a huge state fair would be!

    I love how your arm warmers and helmet match in your Tuesday biking picture - very cool!

    Thanks for the linkup and have a great week!

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    1. Thanks, Deb ;-) The fair is fun, but we usually only get there once each year (it's in Des Moines, so a 50-minute commute). Getting there on two back-to-back evenings was a bit much, but worth it for all the fun ;-)

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  5. A very busy week.
    I have never run in the fog but I think it could be a "nice" experience for me!
    Glad you had fun at the fair. This is the fair period here too.

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    1. This fog (on Monday) was really thick, and quite spooky looking. Like you said, though, that did make it kind of fun ;-)

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  6. I have never borrowed any boots, so no blisters due to that (thank goodness!). I have big feet for a little girl. Bigger than a lot of my taller friends (and by tall we're still talking short, LOL).

    It was foggy this morning while I walked the dog . . . like walking through a cloud. Literally. But it also kept things a bit cooler, yesterday I had to walk them midday -- very short walk -- and poor things were wiped out for hours afterwards (hey guys, I ran 7 miles in that yuck then came home & walked you!).

    Sounds like you had a helluva week, in a good way. ;)

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    1. ha ha ha, yes it was a crazy week. I think I am finally all caught up on sleep, so ONWARD!

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  7. I always hear about the Iowa state fair and how much fun it is. maybe one year! I was really tired this week too. Sounds like maybe you need a real rest day in there somewhere! Nice job getting in that long run solo. That would be really hard for me!

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    1. The long solo runs are not a big deal, but it had been a long time since I'd done one. Barb doesn't like stopping for water or potty breaks, so that was one advantage of being on my own ;-)

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  8. Summer really is all about having fun, isn't it? I'll take a pass on wearing any shoes that will hurt my feet, tho. I've had enough foot issues, thank you very much!

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    1. Well, these fancy boots felt great the first six hours or so, but by the end of Toby's second song they came off. Putting them back on, though, for the long walk to the car almost made me scream....

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  9. We had lots of early morning fog this week, which I would never have known if I wasn't out there running. I love your cowboy hat and congrats on a solid week of F-its!

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    1. The fog was weird. We certainly have it once in awhile, but it was odd having it both Monday and Tuesday, and a hint of it on Saturday as well.

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  10. My younger sister lives in Cedar Rapids and went to the Iowa State Fair this past weekend...it sounds like it is as amazing and unique as the Minnesota State Fair. I love it! Glad you had a great time Kim!

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    1. I have heard great things about the Minnesota State Fair! The Iowa Fair goes for 11 days...so there's constant stuff going on with grand stand shows (usually "famous" musicians/bands), and numerous free concerts at various stages throughout the grounds. And all kinds of (unhealthy) food-on-a-stick LOL

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  11. Wow, what a fun week you had!!! The fair was in my town too, and Night Ranger was playing. I loved them back in the day! I wrote it on my calendar, but by the time Saturday night rolled around, I didn't feel like getting out of the house, so we watched "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" with the kids instead. It was the best movie we found at the rental store!!! I think everyone needs a Barb to work out with. Lucky you!

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    1. We try to make it to the State Fair at least once each year (it lasts for 11 days), and that's usually enough (it's in Des Moines, 50-minutes away). A lot of people go up and camp there for the entirety!

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  12. Such a busy week for you! So glad you got a chance to spend time with all of your kids!

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    1. Thanks, Michelle ;-) It was great getting to spend time with all three of them, individually. That is rare these days.

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  13. We were just having a state fair conversation over dinner last night. The NYS one is in Syracuse and I never went even when I lived in Rochester,but I've been to Altamont a few times. It's pretty intense on the 4H element and their nightlife was more demoliton derby than country star. The NJ one is just across the river at the football stadium and I keep saying I should go, ususally when over for a NYG preseason game, but never made it. Toby Keith must do a great show. To my knowledge, he's never played here. We get Garth, Tim McGraw, Zac Brown Band and Luke Bryant fairly often. I love my country music
    Love the F theme - and congrats on the 14. I was saying to a friend that I need to find a way to route past a 711 or some such to get cold drinks on the go

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    1. Zac Brown and Luke Bryan both were here this year, too. Hootie and the Blowfish played tonight. A few years ago, we saw Def Leppard/Styx together (AWESOME, BTW). Yes, Toby Keith was a great show...not everyone's cup of tea (beer? LOL), but we loved him. The Iowa State Fair is huge with 4H and very heavy with agriculture. One of their famous things is a life-size butter cow every year. I kid you not.

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    2. A life size butter cow sounds amazing and very Instagram friendly. If I do the Field of Dreams game next year, I might have to check on the timing
      Hootie!

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  14. Cheers to you! I can't do those early mornings and that's without even staying up late. The sunrise is super beautiful though - that may get me out of bed!

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    1. The early morning runs/workouts work best for my schedule...fortunately, I'm both a night owl and an early bird ;-)

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  15. I love that you had a F it full week! Your feet were busy. Now get some sleep this week...you made me tired just reading about your lack of it this week. :)

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    1. Ha ha!! I think I'm finally pretty much caught up on sleep, those extra five hours (last night and this morning) did the trick.

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  16. Love the outfit! You look so cute! I am training for the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon and training is going so so. I need to keep up with my workouts.

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    1. I felt like a bit of a "western poser," since I'm not really into the country scene. But I thought it would be odd to be at a country concert and not at least have a little bit country gear. Anyways, it was a super fun evening (BOTH evenings, that is).

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  17. Whew...so did you take a nap today after all those late nights and early mornings? (Though, I have a feeling you may be one of those people who never naps.) I don't know if I would ever borrow boots, but then I usually wear them primarily for functionality. So it would be kinda like borrowing running shoes!

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    1. Right you are...I seldom take naps ;-) Borrowing the boots certainly wasn't the smartest thing I've ever done, but I didn't want to go buy a pair (since I don't know if I'd wear them until there would be another "country" concert, which wouldn't probably be until NEXT summer LOL). Oh well, they looked great, so that's all that matters, ha!

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  18. What a week for you! We had alot of fog on Thursday morning but it was mostly gone by the time I went out for my run. It sounds like it was worth it to stay out a little later and have fun with friends! Glad you were able to find some ways to rest up and recover from it all.

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    1. I seldom get tired, but this week was full of it (from Wednesday morning on...)

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  19. I feel you!! I had a TON of fatigue this week and actually slept until 8:30 Sunday morning! I haven't done that in a very long time unless I was sick. You body will certainly tell you when it's had enough!! You look too adorable in your hat and boots at the Iowa fair - oh my gosh I love it!! And glad you got in so many rides. That sunset was definitely worth it. Hope the weather and your schedule cooperate this week :-)

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    1. We're set for some weird extreme heat tomorrow, and crazy storms on Wednesday...so I may have to do some schedule juggling. It happens.

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  20. You did have a great week. Lately if I get a fast run, it would be freaky. I am hoping for a pick up in pace when the weather breaks.

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    1. I'm due for speedwork this week (since I blew it off last week, except for a little bit with the Monday surges). We shall see....

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  21. No wonder you crashed on Sunday! You had a huge week. Congrats to you for fitting a long run, a bike ride, and still find lots of time for family on Saturday. I can't remember the last time I saw all 3 of my kids on the same day - probably someone's wedding! Way to go, cowgirl! :)

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    1. Isn't it great to see all the kids on the same day (even if it's not all at once)? The little things that we take for granted when they're younger and still at home...

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  22. I used to love Toby Keith, I bet he puts on a good show!

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    1. He did put on a great show! He's so funny, in a redneck-kind of way LOL

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  23. Must be something in the air; fatigue is definitely something that's been hitting me this week, too. :(

    I'm glad you were able to take a break on Sunday. I'm doing that today. I was absolutely spent during my workout and even though I was tempted to get back at it today, I figured I would be smart and just rest.

    Besides all the f-words ,it looks like you had so much fun!

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  24. oops I missed the link up 2 week sin a row. that's how crazy my life has been.

    work, humidity, work, humidity - training for a full - what a crazy idea!!!!

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  25. Sounds like a really busy week! No wonder you needed that extra sleep Saturday night and Sunday morning :) It was smart to let yourself get that extra rest. I ended up exhausted last Thursday and ended up skipping my plans with friends and falling asleep at 7pm instead!

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    1. Right? When I fall asleep on the couch three hours early, something is definitely up LOL

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  26. Gosh I haven't been to the fair in FOR EVER!!! But I'd have likely dressed up too in my best duds and sh*tkickers ;) Were the boots too small or narrow for you? Did you get blisters from the boots? I totally laughed at Fashion before Function. That was me in my 20's only with heels. No wonder I had two neuromas later...

    busy week for you and yeah I can imagine you were a bit fatigued. I love how you are still able to do something to care for your body, whether it's gentle stretching, sleeping a bit more, riding the bike or getting out and seeing what the run will bring you. Well done on your long run too!

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    1. The boots felt fine for the first six hours, but we did a lot of walking, and they had pointed toes. They probably could have been a 1/2 size bigger considering all the action they saw LOL I got a big blister on my left "pinky" toe, a subtle one on my right one and another under my right ankle... so all of my shoes felt uncomfortable (except for strapless sandals) for several days. Ha! Oh well....

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  27. You did so much even without sleeping! That's seriously awesome. I would have taken a day to just sleep LOL. So cool you went to the fair! Nights like those are worth being a bit sleepy for workouts. And yay for family time too!

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  28. What a busy week! I'm impressed with your ability to tolerate the boots! I've lost all tolerance for uncomfortable shoes (even when not pregnant!), but I want to build that back because sometimes it's worth the discomfort.

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