Thursday, December 31, 2020

Since We're Gathered Over Coffee...


We made it!!!!

It wasn't easy. At times, it was quite scary and filled with much anxiety, fear and heartache. But it's over and it's done.

Yes, indeed, 2020 is officially in the rear window. Things did not magically change at the stroke of midnight, but hopefully it gave many closure on an especially tough year. Alas, now we can forge ahead to much anticipated brighter pastures.

Monday, December 28, 2020

2020 - looking back in pics



2020 ought to be in pictures...

Well, truth be told, I have lots of pictures from 2020. 

I have plenty of memories, too. Some memories are a bit more significant than others, so how about I share a few of those? Maybe a few (or 12) monthly memories? 

Sunday, December 27, 2020

Festive Fitnessing!


It was a festive week of fitnessing in my little corner of the universe.

You know the drill...if I have workouts happening this time of year, I don the festive red and green and get sweating. At least that's my formula for a fun week (or even an entire holiday season). Go bright or go home. And smile as it happens. Works for me.

Thursday, December 24, 2020

A Few Final 'Fessions for 2020


Shall we share a few final 'fessions for this train wreck of a year?

Truth be told, while 2020 dumped many unforeseen challenges on us, it wasn't all gloom and doom. After all, I'm a strong believer in finding the sliver lining of every cloud (because EVERY cloud does have one). Let's suffice it to say the past nine months have given me many opportunities to strengthen that skill. 

Recently, there's been a lot of stuff happening...

Sunday, December 20, 2020

All is Calm, All is Bright


As much as I dis on winter weather, I cannot deny the beauty of it on occasion.

After all, bright sunshine reflecting on white snow makes for a pretty tranquil setting. We didn't get any new snow this week, but the morning fog made for plenty of frosty mornings none the less. 'Tis the season, right?   

Monday, December 14, 2020

Turtle Gloves and Toasty Hands


Disclaimer: I received a pair of Turtle Gloves to review as part of being a Bibrave Pro. Learn more about becoming a Bibrave Pro (ambassador), and check out Bibrave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

There's that saying...Cold hands, warm heart. And, that usually applies to me all.the.time. Especially in cooler weather, my hands (and fingers) will feel the chill before any other part of my body. Brrr.

Enter Turtle Gloves.

Sunday, December 13, 2020

Rewired by Necessity



It seems like each week has some kind of crazy spark to it, and this week was no exception.

After some decently "warm" December weather (by Iowa standards), things turned more "seasonal" on us. A mid-week heat surge, though, reignited the energy flow...only to be tapped out by week's end. 

Alas, the seasonal weather (and subsequent temps) brought us back to our current (winter) reality. All is well that ends well, but that brief heated interlude was pretty sweet while it lasted.

Monday, December 7, 2020

2020: Show Me The Bling



Should we talk about 2020 bling?

Or shall we discuss the lack thereof ? 

It definitely was a year like none other. As much as I love my race bling, this year was a bit weak on the (live race) quantity...but the quality was on-point. It's been said that every picture tells a story, but I would argue that most medals would have a story as well (even the virtual ones). 

Take a look...

Sunday, December 6, 2020

Streaking Through the Week


The streak is alive and well!

Yes, I'm (briefly) streaking again. It's my yearly ritual (since 2013), so I'm not going to elaborate on the details. Let's just say, it's going well (thus far) and everything feels good as new. 

This week's weather was pretty sweet. The temps were a bit seasonal (cold LOL) at times, but the sunshine was pretty much non-stop. Even this summer-runner gal was quite content with all things "winter" this week.

Thursday, December 3, 2020

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... 

Monday, November 30, 2020

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.

Sunday, November 29, 2020

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.

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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... 

Monday, November 23, 2020

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.

Sunday, November 22, 2020

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.

Thursday, November 19, 2020

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... 

Monday, November 16, 2020

My (current) Favorite Things


My favorite things. Sigh.

I don't know about you, but my favorite things are ever evolving. I'm not fickle, but my needs change...in terms of the current season or my state of fitness.

I'm also pretty open-minded, and am always on the lookout for new-to-me things to try.

Here's a few of my (current) favorite things. Don't worry, while I have linked the sites for these favorite items, none of them are affiliate links. They're simply must-have necessities that I use regularly and adore. 

Sunday, November 15, 2020

And so it goes


And so it goes, and so it goes. So I shall go with the flow, too, I suppose.

Pardon my paraphrasing, Billy Joel, but it's been an interesting week in my little world. Nothing bad (thank goodness), nothing crazy (well, within reason LOL), and there certainly was plenty to appreciate.

Monday, November 9, 2020

Out & About with the Koala Clip


Question: Do you carry your phone with you when you head out for a run?

I sincerely hope your answer is YES!

Having your phone along, while out and about, is pretty much a given these days...isn't it? It's not only a security blanket (of sorts) should there be an emergency, but it's a vital source for workout apps, music/podcasts, and GPS assistance. And let's not forget all those pics and selfies just waiting to be documented.

Priorities, right?

Sunday, November 8, 2020

A Week of Biking on the Fly



Can you say "biking on the fly!"

When I call myself a runner who bikes, I'm not just giving that claim lip service. This week was an all-out biking excursion, with a few runs mixed into the adventure. 

I have to give huge accolades to Momma N on this one. With the 2020 Fall season being an almost near-miss, and with Winter knocking on the door, optimal biking (in Iowa) is winding down. But, this past week, the weather gods shined most gloriously on my little biking streak, allowing for my biggest biking week...ever!

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Currently...over coffee


Currently....over coffee, I might actually be drinking a cold beverage.

No, I don't mean an adult beverage either. We've had some unseasonably warm weather this week, so I've been downing the cold, flavored water like it's my job. Don't worry, I know this weather won't last, but I've been enjoying it on the daily (like that's my job as well).

None the less, it's that time of the month for gathering and gabbing. Imagine, if you will, a virtual coffee date with friends. What would you care to share?

Sunday, November 1, 2020

Moving Ahead With Caution


Can you say BREAKTHROUGH!

Although my stress fracture rally-back has been going well, I still have had some fleeting moments of  fear and paranoia. After all, a stress fracture still is a broken bone...and that little itty bitty bone in my foot has to bear my full body weight.

I took one of my rally-back runs to the great outdoors, though, on Saturday, and whoa! It felt like I truly was back in my element. 

Thursday, October 29, 2020

"Fall" 'fessions


Time for some 'fessions

Oh yes, indeed. I've got a few to share...

And, guess what? One of them is an actual legit Runfession!

Monday, October 26, 2020

When she pivoted from running to cycling


When she pivoted from running to cycling, she was embarking on new adventure .

There was much to be learned. There also was much to be embraced and celebrated.

Yeah, this happened to a runner. Suddenly, a stress fracture forced her into a 2-month (at the minimum) sabbatical from all things on-foot.

But, it wasn't all bad. In fact, it was a pretty incredible journey with Gustavas, her ever loyal mountain bike.

Sunday, October 25, 2020

Thumbs Down on the Weather


Talk about your roller coaster rides!

I'm not talking about an amusement park endeavor, but the whacked-out weather that was my reality this past week. WHEW, it was quite a ride!

It's no secret I'm a die-hard hot weather gal, so this simulated winter wonderland (of sorts) was most unwelcome.  It was laden with all kinds of 4-letter words not many of us want to hear...mist, rain, wind, and snow.

Thursday, October 22, 2020

A Bit of a Sneaky Streak Seeker


I have a bit of a confession...I'm a bit of a sneaky streak seeker.

I'm not embarrassed, nor the least bit ashamed. And, I must confess that I'm not really sure how it all began, nor do I wish it to end.

Streaking, in terms of fitness, has its merits. It also has potential downfalls, if done carelessly. But there's a pretty significant sense of accomplishment in knowing that you completed (or are still maintaining) a streak.

Monday, October 19, 2020

If I could live (and run) anywhere...



If I could live and run anywhere...

Gosh, the possibilities are endless. I won't name any specific cities (that could potentially elicit some drama...and we don't need any of that these days). But I definitely could give you some ideal settings and backdrops. 

Care to hear a few?

Sunday, October 18, 2020

Against the Wind...on the daily


How do you like your wind? 

Myself? The wind is pretty much my biggest nemesis. It doesn't keep me inside, but it's definitely not my favorite dragon to slay.

That said, I can't exactly brag about slaying any dragons this week. I certainly did battle with plenty of them, though, both on bike and on foot. 

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Five Ways To Intensify Your Strength Workout


Are you a fan of strength workouts?

It's no secret that I am! 

It's been just over 10 years since I was introduced to the world of strength-training, and it's been a pretty fun ride. While I'm not a coach (Ha! As if! LOL), I have learned a lot about the sport of pumping iron.

I'm also a creature of habit. It's all too easy to get stuck in a routine and not venture very far from that which we feel the most comfortable. 

Fortunately, I'm also one who is always looking for new ways to do old things. Such is the case with my at-home workouts. I don't have much for fancy equipment, but I do have a few sets of dumbbells. They get a lot of use, usually weekly.

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Speaking of Rest...


Rest. 

It's a necessary part of the program, so why is it so tough to honor and respect?

Not that anyone was asking, but I'll give you my answer:

I think "resting" is tough to do because there's not any one perfect way to do it. 

Sunday, October 11, 2020

Let's Rally!

It's been quite a week!

Although Momma N kept the wind coming, she did bless us with some decent summer-like temps and weather conditions. I guess she can play nice, on occasion. I'll give her that.

Monday, October 5, 2020

Favorite Memories, via the blog


My life embarked on a fulfilling journey when I became a runner.

And, my world took an interesting turn when I became a blogger.

Blogging has been a fun, time-consuming, scary and oh-so-rewarding experience. Not only has it been a great way to network with fellow runners, but it's been an archive of some significant running memories and milestones.

We all go through difficult times in our personal and professional lives, and running is no exception. Often times, I have turned to my own archived blog posts to renew my spirit and enthusiasm for the sport, as well as my confidence. Let's face it...it's not usually our abilities that falter, but our faith in them that does.

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Weathering The Week


Let's just say it was a windy week in Iowa.

I think most people know I'm a huge all-things-summer gal, so this intro to Fall 2020 was a bit of a challenge to embrace. I can tolerate the cooler temps, but Momma N was insistent on also blessing us with wind on a daily basis. And it wasn't a warm breezy kind of wind, either.

Oh well, at least she's not dropping any of the white stuff on us yet (knock on wood).

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Chai and Chatter and (bicycle) Chains


What say we gather (virtually, of course) and chat for a bit? 

You can have your beverage of choice (hot or cold), but I'm opting for a chai latte.' We can discuss the latest happenings in our lives, and give each other a (virtual) hug of encouragement and support. After all, COVID-19 has not yet left us and things are a bit strained at the moment.

Care to join me?

Monday, September 28, 2020

Running Mistakes...Anyone?


Running mistakes? 

Yes, I've made a few (actually several, but who's counting?).

The thing with mistakes, running or otherwise, is they are part of the process. If we did everything perfect all the time, I question just how much we'd actually learn.

Care to hear a few of mine?

Sunday, September 27, 2020

Rewinding back to Summer


I'm all about Summer.

The temps. The sunshine. The warm breeze(s). The proverbial "glistening and glowing" following an outdoor workout. It's all good, and thankfully, there was plenty of it this past week. 

Even though we are now on the dark side of the Autumnal Equinox, and the daylight is decreasing on the daily, this past week gave me a brief rewind back to Summer. You can bet I was outside, enjoying every last minute of it.

Thursday, September 24, 2020

stress fracture 'fessions


 

Please forgive me, dear runners. It's been 42 days since my last run..

I wish I could have been running this past month, and I wish I was #runfessing about it now. But I am gonna break stride (see what I did there?) and share some #StressFractureFessions this go-round. After all, this stress fracture has been my reality since August 19th, when it was first diagnosed.

Anyways, shall we begin?

Monday, September 21, 2020

All Fueled Up with SiS


Disclaimer: I received a supply of Science In Sport gels to review as part of being a Bibrave Pro. Learn more about becoming a Bibrave Pro (ambassador), and check out Bibrave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

Ever find a product that felt like a perfect fit, right from the start?

As a runner, I had my go-to brand of gels that I used for fuel. I used them for many training runs and races, for many years, with never any glitches. I don't know if their formula(s) changed, or if my body chemistry (for lack of a better metaphor) was altered...but in recent years, those gels were no longer compatible with me or my fitness needs.

It felt like starting over when I began my quest for a new fuel. You know the drill...trial and error with various other forms of fuel (different gels, chews, powders), some with water (and some without), before running (or during a run). Yadda Yadda Yadda.

I had tried the SiS gels a couple years ago, and was really excited to try some new varieties. Let me sum this up in four words...These Gels Are Great!

Sunday, September 20, 2020

Riding Through the Last of Summer


Yikes. Where, oh where, did my summer go? 

Oh, yeah...I've spent the last five weeks sans running, power-walking or stair-climbing. The daylight has dramatically diminished. And, the temps are flirting with a fall-like crispness. That's not all bad, but ugh. It's definitely not summer anymore. 

This past week brought back some much-missed sunshine, and the rain stayed away. I was able to #optoutside on a daily basis, so I really cannot complain.

Monday, September 14, 2020

Speedwork...Anyone?


Confession...I never had much of a need for speed.

Although I've been a runner for the past 15 years, speedwork only made an appearance in recent years. In all honesty, it still isn't much of a priority.

Although it is exciting to set new PR's, I have never based my love of running on how fast I could go. Frankly, I'm kind of a klutzy and awkward athlete. Running fast does not come easy for me, nor do I look especially graceful or svelte in attempting to do so.

Sunday, September 13, 2020

"Raining" It In


Things turned rather cold and damp this week.

We're talking rain, wind, and unseasonably cold temps, almost on a daily basis. Long sleeves, leggings/tights, and gloves were pretty much standard on the bike rides this week. There were a few days where even a headband (over my ears) was necessary. 

It's technically still summer for another week, but Momma N certainly got this week's weather wrong.

Monday, September 7, 2020

Not My Usual DAM to DSM


For everything there is a season...

...and for every challenging circumstance, there is a solution.

As a runner, there are few things more frustrating than an injury. Often times, we can feel the injury gently knocking on the door, other times it comes crashing through the doorway.

The same goes for race cancellations. We've all had a few (or several) of those to face this year. 

And then there's MY reality....

Sunday, September 6, 2020

Sidelined? So What!


 

Sidelined doesn't have to mean sedentary.

Thank goodness for small miracles, because sitting still is not my gig.

As this goes to press, I'm entering Week 3 of Stress Fracture Recovery. Woot! Yay for me, this is my first-ever fracture of any kind...and it hasn't been too painful or frustrating. Yet.

Thursday, September 3, 2020

My current coffee "situation"


My current coffee "situation" is not like anything I could have imagined a few weeks ago.

Things aren't fabulous, but they're manageable. Fortunately, I'm not prisoner to a pity party, nor am I dwelling on the things I'm (temporarily) not able to do. Again, it's that "big picture" perspective. Knowing that I have 100% control of my attitude is pretty empowering.

That said, there are a few things I'd like discuss over coffee. Care to join me? 

Monday, August 31, 2020

Best Running Advice: Be Grateful


I have been an avid runner for over 15 years.

I have received a  lot of valuable advice in that time. The advice has come from running experts, coaches, online research, and fellow runners. 

I know what shoes are best for my feet, the value in warming up (and cooling down), and how to pace myself in a race of (almost) any distance. I have learned to run my own race and to opt out of the comparison game. Although I'm still very much a work-in-progress, I'm thankful for all that I've learned.

The most valuable lesson, though, has come from my own experience...and that is to always be grateful.

Sunday, August 30, 2020

Reroute #downloading


There's nothing wrong with rerouting once in awhile.

Thank goodness we don't have to be stuck on a one-way path on our feet, on the bike or in life. Besides, taking a detour will allow us to see a few bonus details we otherwise wouldn't have experienced. At least that's what I'm embracing at the moment. 

As my fitness world adjusts to my current reality, I'm having to reroute my routine. It's been an interesting challenge thus far, and certainly remains a work-in-progress... 

Thursday, August 27, 2020

It's 'fession Time, but Where Do I Even Begin...


It's 'fession time, but where do I even begin?

As if 2020 hasn't been a wicked ride on a broken roller coaster, August has not exactly been a picnic in the park.  In fact, the past month has thrown a tank of lemons in my direction. 

It's a good thing I have an affection for lemonade! By the way, I'll take that lemonade straight up, sans anything mixed in, because I don't trust myself not to spill.

Monday, August 24, 2020

Going For A Group Ride


There's a first time for everything, and this was a fun endeavor for this first-timer.

I'm talking biking here, specifically group bike riding. Only this was more than just a group ride...there was food and drink, and plenty of door prizes. Several friends were in tow. And there were a whole lot of laughs along the way.

Monday, August 17, 2020

Detour!


How about a plot twist, you know, just to make things interesting?

As if 2020 hasn't been crazy enough, the month of August has certainly thrown a few curve balls my way. Somehow, I've kept my big girl pants properly hoisted and have been able to soldier through (most of) everything. This week, though, got a little nutzo...

Saturday, August 15, 2020

Riding the Storm Out #Literally


Yikes. Can you say DERECHO?

Trust me, that's a word I'd never heard of prior to this past week. It was a week that demanded a lot of juggling and some rearranging, and a lot of attention to priorities. It definitely gave me a good test of patience and grit...but that's all good (I say that in retrospect LOL).