Chatting over chai

Holy Brrrr, Batman!

Didn't we just recently celebrate Autumn's arrival? The leaves had finally started turning, the air was cool and crisp, the rain had finally stopped....and now we're entertaining sub-freezing temps and wind. And, already, there's some of that white stuff on the ground.

I don't mind the change of seasons. After all, it's pretty inevitable that's it's gonna happen anyways. In fact, I kind of embrace the various nuances of each season...but that doesn't mean I'm in any big hurry for Winter to arrive.

Anyways, I've been slamming the hot beverages 'round the clock to try to keep warm. Speaking of hot beverages, what would you be drinking if we were gathered 'round a cozy table? Care to join me? What would you share, if we were chatting over coffee?

There's plenty that I would share...

Okay, remember the hornet's nest that had taken up residence (apparently for most of the summer) over our driveway? We got it taken down this week and it's currently now residing in our garage. I believe there's no living inhabitants remaining inside, but we'll give it a few more days of sub-freezing temps to solidify that theory. I do plan on displaying it inside, probably in our sun room, because it's quite an artistic masterpiece!

Next, there's some exciting news with the family! The Pennsylvania daughter is officially back in Iowa! She (and her boyfriend) made the long drive to Iowa on Wednesday. The new house is in possession and she will officially report to her office on Monday morning (she's been working her new job remotely for the past several weeks). To have our three kids all within an hour's drive from our house is pretty sweet.

I gotta say, the timing of Halloween was immaculate, falling four days post-marathon. A bunch of us at work dressed up as cowgals, which meant donning a hat. After three days of very limited activity, by Thursday, I was ready for a post-marathon run. My hair was due for washing, but I didn't want to "waste" a shampoo/conditioner session before said run (which would be happening after work)...so wearing the cowboy hat was a perfect disguise for the pseudo-icky hair.

you don't want to see what's under that hat...

Later, with temps a bit warmer (and much sunnier), I met up with Barb after work...you know, for a #5at5PM. It still was cold, but we opted to run five (1-mile) laps around the lake, so we had some shelter from the chilly wind. This 5-miler brought my October miles to 116, and my year-to-date total to 882. Although I have come close a few times, I've never passed the 1,000 mile mark in a calendar year, but this may be the year it finally happens. Stay tuned...

You all probably know I ran a marathon this past weekend. Not just any marathon, but the Marine Corps Marathon  (sorry, but I never get tired of saying that LOL). Although the race was tough, mainly due to the nasty weather, I am feeling really good about the whole ordeal, both mentally and physically. I would have loved a much better finish time; after all, my training (and recent races) indicated I'd finish a good 40-50 minutes faster. But, battling rain for the better part of 18 miles really took a toll on me. I also had several incidental stops (potty breaks, fuel packet malfunctions, first aid tent, iPhone probs), which accounted for a good chunk of those extra minutes past my desired time. I also walked a lot in the final four miles. That said, running a marathon is not an easy undertaking. I'm grateful for the ability to not only cross each finish line, but for having the grit and endurance to persevere when things get tough. Thankfully, each marathon has been easier to recover from than all the previous ones...I'm pretty grateful for that, too.

feeling good, feeling fine following the marathon

Finally, let me just say that running friends are the best (like we didn't already know, right?). While in DC, I had the chance to reunite with some friends (and meet a couple of new ones). Even though we don't live in close proximity, we certainly have a fantastic bond. I am truly blessed!

With Debbie

(L-R) Alexis, Timika, Deborah, Rachel, Coco, myself and Julie

         Anyways, those are a few things I'd share with you if we were having coffee.

How about you? Do you have anything you'd like to tell us? Have you already had a taste of Winter?
Ever procrastinated washing your hair until AFTER an afternoon run?

Since it's the first weekend of the month, I'm linking this with Deborah and Coco for the Ultimate Coffee Date.

I'm also linking this with Meranda and Lacey for the Friday with Fairytales and Fitness link-up. 

 

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