Falling out of Summer

It's that time of the year that I dread (almost) the most....the end of summer.

Granted the majority of my runner friends are ecstatic to usher in some cooler weather and kick summer to the curb...but not me. Well, I do appreciate the less intense heat and humidity, but I have a special place in my heart for all things summer.

None the less, I live in Iowa. We get to experience the change of seasons. As much as I love summer, though, I doubt I'd love it so dearly if I lived in it year-round. Besides, getting to experience both extremes of weather reinforces just how much I truly love summer more than winter.

As we embark on the end of summer, I thought I'd share a few coping strategies to ease the transition into the cooler temps (and darker days) of fall. Just as we need some "easing in" when the mercury rises, it's also best to be prepared for the shift towards the cooler days ahead. Read on!


Falling out of Summer:Coping Strategies

*It's getting darker in the early mornings. Although there may be ample street lights, it still can be dark along the roads and tricky running along uneven sidewalks. It's always beneficial to have a light source with you.

My Knuckle Lights have been getting a lot use in recent weeks

*It's harder to be seen. Just as important as being able to see where you are going, you also want to be visible to oncoming traffic. Common sense prevails...bright (preferably light) colors, glow strips on your clothing, and extra light sources/accessories definitely can't hurt.

I especially love these arm bands that work like slap bracelets

*The darkness can feel ever-so-chilly! Even with the warm daytime temps, the air is often times quite a bit chilly in the early hours (or evening). I just can't bring myself to wear my capri's yet, but if I throw on a long-sleeved top with my shorts, it feels like an ideal balance of warm and cool dressing.

long sleeves + shorts = a perfect balance

*Even in the daylight, there's a chill  in the air. Yes, there may be a sunrise happening, but the air still can feel a bit nippy, even on a humid morning. For me, arm sleeves are an ideal solution. I can still wear my summer tanks, but having just part of my arms covered feels just warm enough without being over-heated.

arm sleeves to the rescue!

*Don't forget the ears! Although the cooler temps may feel ideal for running, your ears may not necessarily agree. Recently, the early morning temps were in the mid-50's. My body felt fine after the first 10-15 minutes, but my ears were quite thankful to have some cover over them, via a scrunched up buff.

Those are the main ones for me...if you need a few more ideas, check out this post, Favorite Fall Running Hacks.

Talk to me....Are you sad or joyful to see summer winding down and fall emerging? Does it take you a few weeks to acclimate to the cooler temps and diminishing daylight?

I'm linking this with Meranda and Lacey and Rachel for the Friday Five 2.0. 

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