Returning to Winter

It was bound to happen...

After almost an entire month of unseasonably pleasant temps, it was back to life (in Iowa) and back to the reality of winter. At least Momma N kept the precip to a minimum and waited until after Christmas to have her way with us. 
 

Despite the usual busyness this time of year, this was probably one of the least stressful holiday seasons on record. The bulk of gifts were bought (or sent) ahead of time, most of the baking was done a couple weeks ahead of schedule, and I only needed a handful of last-minute grocery items. Whew!

Oh, and the run streak continued on its merry way, as did the other non-running fitness fun. All in all, it was a great week! 

Some Final 'Fessions for 2023

 ...and, just like that, it's time for one last trip to the 'fessional for 2023.

December has been a month of surprises, and also a month of adventure. The weather kept me guessing, and the run streak kept me active. There also were a few unexpected "episodes," if you will, that kept me on alert.

Never a dull moment, and that's quite alright. 

Continued Smooth Sailing

What can I say?

We're almost through December, not to mention the Year of 2023, and the weather has been pretty kind to me. We all know I've been run streaking since Thanksgiving Eve. This year, I've done several of those runs in shorts, and even more sans gloves! 

There's also been a lack of snow (precipitation in general, actually), which has made for some low-maintenance daily jaunts in the running shoes.

This past week was no exception...

2023 - The Year in Pics

So, here we are...closing in on the end of 2023.

Lots of memories. Plenty of miles. And even some mischief (you know, for good measure).

I'm thankful most of it was documented, via pics, because there was so much going on. There was fun to be had, daily fitness to enjoy, and valuable friendships (new and long-standing) to treasure. 

Shall we take a quick walk, down the 2023 memory lane? 

Halfway There!

Things just keep moving right along...

Not only have we passed the halfway mark in December (how is that even possible???), but yours truly passed the mid-point of my winter run streak. Indeed. Truth be told, I'm not sure which is going faster, the final month of 2023 or the streaking.

My theory? The continued (mostly) mild winter weather is what's keeping things pleasantly in motion. While it's been quite cold at times (as it should be this time of year), we haven't had much snow (or even rain) to deal with. For myself, not having to fight the elements makes the great outdoors much more manageable this time of year.

Call me crazy, but I'm good with mild temps, clear streets and a definite lack of ice. 

The Year in Bling: 2023

The year was 2023.

It was a year of fun, and it was a year of challenges.

It also was a fabulous year of self-discovery, milestones conquered, new experiences and plenty of laughter along the way.

What's more? There's plenty of bling to show for it!

On The Upswing

The winter season is definitely in our midst, but it's not all bad.

It's no secret that Winter is my fourth favorite season. I'm not a fan of extreme cold temps, psychotic wind, or the increasingly dark days. That said, the Solstice is getting closer, bringing with it (gradually) increased daylight! 

This week gave us "seasonal" temps, but not much in terms of precipitation (#Win). We also were gifted a few days with much-appreciated mild weather (#BigWin). My winter run streak is going well (#AnotherWin). And, I'm at a good place in terms of prepping for the holidays. I'd say things are on a definite upswing, given this busy time of year.

So, Here We Are...

Although I knew Winter would be arriving (eventually), it still wasn't a pleasant entrance.

What can I say? Momma N strung me along through most of November, teasing and taunting me with unseasonably mild temps...only to drop Winter upon me with a rather large thump. I have heard it may be a calmer-than-usual winter this year, though, so that does give me hope.

Nonetheless, that does not mean I have to love it...