Reunited with the Flock! Market-to-Market 2026 Recap

Oops, we did it again!

The date was Saturday May 9th. There were seven of us, dressed in seven variations of pink gear. There was a 72-mile course to run. And we had the entire day to do so.  

Yes, it was time to return to the Market-to-Market Relay!

Consistency

There’s much to said about the not-so-simple concept of consistency.

Consistency has been paramount in my life since fitness entered the scene, over 21 years ago. It took a long time to learn how to be a runner, and consistently logging a few miles each week is what made the transformation take place. The same thing happened when I first mounted a “grownup” bike, worked-out with dumbbells (and exercise bands) and started climbing stairs competitively. 

Such was the case this past week as well. I did a little bit of everything, and kept the fitness happening on a daily basis amidst the continuous wind and temperamental temps… 

A Wind-Blown Recovery

Well, can you say wind?

Yet again, the wind was a force to be reckoned with in Iowa. We’re talking pretty much on a daily basis. 

My body was ready for some recovery time (I’m looking at you, busy weekend), and getting outside was not only a priority, it was paramount. There was a lot of walking. There was some decent running. And, at long last, there were some miles logged on the mountain bike.

…and, there was plenty of crazy wind awaiting most of my adventures…

Klompen Classic 5K - race recap

 

It had been a few years, but I was feeling the call to return.

After all, it was “just” a 5K, right? I knew the race course was flat, the crowd support was strong, and there were lots (and I do mean LOTS) of tulips everywhere.

Then, as if on cue, the race organizers reached out and offered a comped registration in exchange for a couple of promo reels. Sold!

More Spring Chillin’

Spring 2026, in Iowa, has been seasonably “unseasonable.”

The calendar is showing Spring, but we keep getting Winter feels-like conditions on repeat. The wind has been downright brutal and rude. At least we haven’t seen any of the white stuff (snow or frost), so there’s that.  

That said, if anyone has a magic weather wand, I’d appreciate a wave or two to set things right, LOL

Grand Blue Mile - 2026 race recap

 

I can do tough things.

Although I pride myself on doing such things, I often question my sanity while in the midst of getting them done. Over the years, I’ve gotten especially good at getting out of my comfort zone (because there’s nothing to be gained by staying “comfortable”). 

Case-in-point…the Grand Blue Mile. 

Feelin’ Good, Feelin’ Fine

Another week of Spring, and things have been feelin’ pretty stellar.

Even after that cold, windy, and hilly Drake half, as well as the intense Grand Blue Mile, all is well. There have been no traces of the DOMS, which is a valid cause for celebration. And, although the wind has been rather naughty, the weather has been seasonally pleasant.