Coffee & Chatter & Chai, Oh My!

Well, here we are again. 

As with all things virtual (that word has been on permanent repeat for too long, just saying), it's time for gathering over a virtual cup of coffee (or beverage of your choosing). We could even sit around a virtual table and munch on virtual snacks.  

That said, at least the conversation would be real. 

And, let's not forget, we are in the midst of a crazy holiday season (with its own set of new Covid-compliant rules). There's also a grand bon voyage to 2020 in the works.

Yes, there's plenty to chat about. In fact, let me go first... 

Festive Fitness Fashion Hacks

'Tis the season, and it's a festive time of year for many of us!

Despite the crazy ride 2020 has taken us on, many are in good spirits with the upcoming holidays. We still have our fitness vices, after all. Even if many of our regular holiday-themed races aren't happening in real life, many are promoting virtual options. 

Granted, for some, the virtual gig has lost its appeal. At the very least, though, we can lace up, get outside and pound out a few miles in our running shoes.

...but why stop there? Why not have some festive fun in the name of fitness? After all, a few bright colors and some funky patterns never hurt anyone.

Thankful, Grateful...and oh so Blessed

It was quite a week.

Although there's plenty to be grateful for on a daily basis, Thanksgiving Week is a perfect time to really zero-in on all that is good. Granted, there are many "bad" things that are out of our control. Ultimately, though, our attitude and perception of everything (good and bad) is all on us.

At least that's how I see things LOL.

Shall we 'fess up already?

Here we are...time to 'fess up and feel good about it.

Things have continued to stay on the crazy side "normal," but 2020 is winding down.  It's been a tough year, in so many capacities. It's also been a year of change, adjustment, and growth...none of which are bad. 

Alas, as November winds down, there are a few current things I'd like to bring to the 'fessional... 

Gratitude - I've Got Some

Gratitude. Tis the season.

This has been quite a year, for us all. So many changes, so many unknowns. Yet, so much to be thankful for.

I've written previous Thankful posts (in 2019, in 2018, in 2017, in 2016, in 2015 and in 2014), and I honestly don't know if I could say it any better. Bear with me, I'm going to go with (mainly) what's been said before, but tweak some of it to make it more current.

Fall's Finale

It would appear Fall's Finale is upon us.

The temps are back to their "seasonal" range, the leaves are disappearing, and the daylight is quickly dwindling. In my little corner of the universe, though, it feels like the fall season was a near-miss.

After all, I spent the majority of the season off my feet. Well, I did some hobbling around (in an ugly orthotic boot), and I enjoyed many miles on the bike. But there wasn't any walking or running until recent weeks, so the opportunities to really see and experience Fall in all its glory were at the minimum.

I'm alright with that, though. I like Fall, but it signifies the end of Summer (which is my favorite season), and we all know what comes next. None the less, this week saw many great things happening in my fitness world and otherwise.

A Winter Running Refresher

It's crazy.

I've had to stray from my usual routine in recent months (you know, #stressfracture). Yet, here I am...feeling ready, and raring to get back at it. Only now, the weather is a tad bit colder than it was three months ago.

As much as I dread the cold weather, it's a reality in Iowa. That said, I don't have to love it to tolerate it. After all, my attitude is all on me. 

Here's a few cold weather reminders that'll assist me in facing the winter in my running shoes...