Rocking the Early Mornings!

Another week back, and there have been lots of early morning shenanigans.

I'm slowly easing back to moderate mileage before the 26.2 training commences. I'm realizing how much I really like those early morning miles. I don't really know why I haven't done more of those EMR's (Early Morning Runs) this summer....but now that the days will be getting shorter, I'm realizing the need to take advantage of what remains.

My week began with a couple of early morning #nevermissaMonday miles at sunrise. Another hot and humid day was in the forecast, so I wanted to get it done before the temps got crazy.

Rise and shine!

I had the same idea for Tuesday morning, except my body had a different agenda. The temps were fairly mild, but the humidity already was pretty heavy. I had been up late watching the Olympics (#mybad). The angry hammy wasn't feeling great. My plan had been four easy miles, but after the first mile I decided three not-so-easy miles would suffice. And, that's all well and good. I've had some pretty great runs lately, it was only fitting a "bad run" was bound to make an appearance.

Definitely not my most enjoyable run, but I'm thankful for having gotten it done

Wednesday was a day of strength-training. I don't post daily pics of my planks (or every fitness-related activity I do....really, who would enjoy seeing EVERYTHING?). Most people know I"m active, I don't feel the need to overwhelm my phone with pictures documenting every time I break a sweat. But this pre-sunrise workout left me feeling like a beast, and ready to conquer the day.

Planking, push-up-ing, and pumping (iron)...Oh my!

It also was our 26th wedding anniversary. We had dinner with the two remaining kids at home...but (for once) I failed to document this moment in time (#another #mybad).

From last year, on our 25th anniversary

Thursday was another day that started in the running shoes before the sunrise. As much as I wanted some redemption for Tuesday's train wreck, I thought it best to keep it easy and steady. The hammy had been achy most of the week, so I didn't want to aggravate it further. Besides, I had a busy weekend on tap, and knew I'd be logging some miles on both Saturday and Sunday. No worries.

By the light of my Knuckle Lights and ViziBelt

Friday...not much happening. I did my August Challenge stuff (planking, push-ups, stairwork, etc.), and watched more of the Olympics. Did you see Mo's incredible 10K? Not only did he take an unfortunate tumble, but he spanked that race and won it! I am so much in awe of the talent these Olympians have!

Saturday, I was up and at 'em (again), and met up with my friend, Barb, for a (moderately) long run. We've had some extremely hot and humid weather this week, but Saturday's temps were beautiful. I had a few moments of "needing" to walk (just keeping it real...ultra runners need walk breaks, too), but overall the run felt great. We got seven miles done and were finished around 8:00AM.

Does anything feel better than stripping off the shoes and socks after a long run?

Sunday, was my first-ever obstacle course run (and we were up early...out of the house by 5:30AM to make the drive over). My husband is now retired from the military (31 years...Air Force active duty and Air National Guard reserve duty). Several years ago, he did an 18-month stint at Camp Dodge (Johnston, IA), and was invited to participate in their first-ever No Mans Land Trench Run...a 10K course on the grounds of Camp Dodge, which would include several army training maneuvers/obstacles, hills, trenches, etc.  This event really got me out of my comfort zone (hello? mud under my finger nails? #eewww), and it was a great testament to the value in doing other cross-training, and being more than "just a runner." The race recap is in the works, so stay tuned.

Yep, that's a 20-pound sand bag. Not heavy, but awkward to run with!

In other news.....

Last weekend was my mother's birthday. We had been living in Michigan for several years prior to the attacks on September 11, 2001. We decided to move back to Iowa, and are now a mere three blocks from my parents. It's nice having them close by, and I'm glad our kids were able to grow up with them playing an active role in their lives.

With my mommy dearest, Carol Jean

This gal, Simone, is simply amazing. I just cannot help being in awe (and ever-so-slightly jealous) of her awesome talent.

Even though the temps have been hot and humid, I refuse to let Momma N win this battle. I have a number of fun ways I'm dong my hair these days.....because flat and frumpy is just not a look I embrace. And I may have a thing for bright colors, too.....

Humid air, don't care!

Last of all, our groomer had a chance to fine-tune Max's hair. She had been on maternity leave for a few months. The husband and I did an OK job maintaining his course, wavy tangles, but it definitely was time for some professional attention. I never like his newly-cut hair for the first couple of weeks (because it just doesn't look like "Max"), but I know it's what is best for him. His fur is thick, and if we don't stay on top of (almost daily) brushing, it becomes a furry mess in a hurry.

Back from the groomer....probably three pounds lighter from all the hair that got trimmed

How was your week? Have you had some hot & humid weather? Does it affect how you wear your hair? Ever done an obstacle course event? If you have a dog, do you do the grooming on your own, or have a professional do it?

So, that's a wrap. As usual, I'm linking up with Holly (from HoHo Runs) and Tricia (from MissSippiPiddlin) for their awesome Weekly Wrap. Head over and check out what's been happening!