Smile...We've Turned the Corner

There was a lot to smile about this week.

After almost two weeks of endless cold, wind and snow (not necessarily in that order), we got a much-appreciated winter thaw. Case in point, the daily snow shoveling didn't have to happen on the daily anymore. I was able to get outside for more than just driveway boot camp. And, the excess layers of gear were no longer necessary.

Granted, winter is still far from over. Just having this nice reprieve, though, makes it feel like we've turned the corner on my least favorite season. That's worthy of a lot of smiling!

The '24 'Fessions Are Flyin'

Here we are again...

Not only has January 2024 gone quickly, but the monthly trip to the 'fessional is already upon us. Yikes, how did that happen? Oh well, the faster we get through January, the sooner we'll get to summer. 

As per usual, there's always a few 'fessions that need mention. You know the drill...we 'fess the 'fessions, and we move on.

Not a DOMS Dweller

The DOMS ... Driveway Onset Muscle Soreness. 

Ever heard of it? You may become a lucky victim of this condition after a week (or longer) of daily snow shoveling in one's driveway.

The 20+ inches of snow (from the previous week) kept me busy, gradually chipping away at its lingering remnants. Then, several more inches of the white stuff arrived Thursday afternoon and evening. As a result, my already aching body was blessed with even more driveway boot camp. My biceps have never seen so much action! 

But, all was well. The crazy weather gave me ample opportunity to properly acclimate to the arctic-like conditions as I successfully maintained my #OptOutside streak. Glass half full.

Another Run Streak? DONE!

Yes, I did it again (for the 11th time, nonetheless).

What started as a once-and-done thing, back in 2013, has become a much-anticipated yearly gig. It's no secret how I feel about the winter season. The cold temps, the crazy wind, and the lack of daylight...all are things I can deal with, but ALL of them are major buzzkills.

Enter the annual Runner's World Winter Run Streak. It not only gives me some much-loved fitness via the running shoes, but also a much-needed distraction from all things winter. And, it sees me through the winter solstice.

Brrrrring on the Biking!

Suffice it say Momma N had some winter wrath to dispel this week, and she did not hold back.

I know, I know...she has spared us plenty of crazy weather, thus far, this typically cold season. We all knew the real winter would eventually be making its arrival, but this grand entrance was quite  unnecessary (and, dare I say, ridiculous).

Although things were a bit precarious with (outdoor) running this week, this gave me ample opportunity to embrace all things biking (indoor, that is). Oh, and there were oodles (upon oodles) of hours of shovel time...

...And Away We GO!

Let's suffice it to say, the new year is off and running...

The seasonal weather has returned (at least the temps and wind), the run streak has ended, and I'm eyeing all the adventure and excitement that awaits me. 

While I don't do much in regards to resolutions, I do try to assess all that happened (or didn't, LOL) in the previous year and realign my priorities. Although many of these "realignments" happen year-round, they seem to have a little more impact on January 1st. That's what works for me, anyways. 

Coffee & more, it's 2024!

Did someone say coffee?

It's been a few weeks since our last gathering, and the temps are ever-so-chilly. I don't know about you, but I'm always game for a get-together, warm mugs in hand, for some friendly camaraderie and conversation.  

Shall we?