One “Fall” Swoop

…and just like that, it appears the fall season is here to stay.

Well, at least that’s the story from this week. Although we did have some pleasant afternoon temps, the mornings were chilly, the air was crisp, and the wind returned with somewhat of a vengeance.

 I know the summer-like temps aren’t completely in the rear-view mirror, but ugh. Why, oh why, is Summer such a painfully short season in the Midwest? It’s a good thing I have perseverance and grit, both of which are crucial in getting outside (still) on the daily.

A Seasonal Chat over Coffee

Anyone up for a gathering of sorts, around a virtual table, with plenty of coffee on hand?

Well, it doesn’t have to be coffee for your beverage du jour. Actually, any beverage will do (I’ll be sipping a hazelnut cappuccino), but the conversation will be amongst friends and is guaranteed to be fun!

If you’re game, allow me to begin…

August’s Final Hurrah

How, exactly, is August (almost) over?

I gotta say it’s been a month full of adventure, fitness, and fun. I don’t dread September’s arrival, but I’m not too keen on the final days of summer looming on the horizon. The best I can do is celebrate and embrace every minute before the daylight depletes and the cold sets in…

‘Fessing it up for August

 

…and just like that, it’s time to hit the ‘fessional.

You know the drill, a few ‘fessions released, exposed, and shared does us well. Besides, there’s no sense in keeping all this stuff to myself, LOL.

So, here’s what needs disclosing for August…

Look to the Sky

Some say the sky’s the limit.

I’d have to say the sky’s not only the limit (figuratively and in reality), but it’s also quite beautiful. This week, there was plenty to see in looking skyward. Not only was the sunrise breathtaking, on the daily, there were numerous celestial things going on, and it was an astronomer’s paradise. 

It also was another humidity-filled week, with plenty of summer weather to behold. Of course, I was all about that!

Because I Can

Well, it was a week!

The weather was very seasonal…hot (at times), cool (on a few token mornings), and humid (as per usual). There was a little bit of rain, but it was in moderation. There still is a plentitude of standing water in the fields and streams, though the levels appear to be gradually dwindling.

Myself? Getting outside on the daily, as usual, was without question. I may be in denial in acknowledging  the slightly lesser daylight, but I’m definitely soaking up as much of summer as possible.

Gimme Some Summer

It was another week of questionable weather and whatnot.

In other words it was a guessing game (on the daily), questioning not only Momma N’s motives, but also the appropriate workout gear to wear in dealing with the outdoor conditions. If nothing else, that adds to the fun. It’s also quite nice when those conditions play-out better than anticipated. 

To Humidity and Beyond…

It’s been one of the most humid summers ever, at least in the most recent weeks.

We’re talking 100% humidity, almost on the daily. As much as I love the heat, and can tolerate the humidity, I have to admit it has been pretty uncomfortable. The damp air, the wet streets (from the non-evaporating rain), and the requisite messy hair updo’s (by default) have been my reality. 

We did get a much welcome reprieve, though, as the weekend approached…

Hmmm, What’s in your cup?

If we were to gather for a coffee chat, virtual or otherwise, what would be in your cup?

I’ve been on a hazelnut cappuccino kick for a a couple of years now. If I’m sipping in the comfort of my home, that would be my beverage of choice. If I was out and about, I’d go for a chai latte’ because I’m still not a coffee drinker. I do love me a hot beverage on occasion, though, even in the heat of summer.

Another question…if we were gathered around a table, what would you want to share?

Myself? I have a few things I’d bring to the table…

Back in the (RAGBRAI) Saddle Again

Some things are just too good to miss.

The same could be said about bike rides, especially when we’re talking about the biggest such event in the world. Did I mention it happens in the state of Iowa?

This such event is known as RAGBRAI, and I was fortunate to take part for Day-5 of this weeklong ride across the state.  

The HEAT Is ON!

Anyone feeling #HotHotHot ?

If not, let me extend an invite to Iowa. We’ve not only got the heat, but the humidity as well. While I can usually handle the heat and humidity with moderate ease, these conditions have been bordering on extreme for this region. That said, I will gladly take what we have and not wish it away. Also, I’d choose these hot temps over the bitter chill of winter, hands down, any day.  

So yeah. There was all kinds of glistening and glowing going on this week. And, I survived without incident. All is well….

Summer ‘Fession’ had me a blast

…and just like that, we’re back at the ‘Fessional.

I swear, summer is flying by at record speed. I’m not fan of this situation, obviously. That said, I’m doing all I can to enjoy every minute of it, no matter the what!

Shall we get this July ‘Fessional gig underway? Read on…

Midnight Madness 5K - race recap

 

I’m all about returning to fun races, year after year. 

After all, can one have too many favorite races? The Midnight Madness races certainly fit that bill for me. 

It wasn’t until after the day following that I realized I had not raced a 5K since this very event last year  (Wow, seriously?) … so how did this play-out?

Read on…

Whacky Weather Roulette

Well,well,well. Momma N was most indecisive this week.

We’re talking heat, humidity, wind, more humidity, rain, even more humidity and storms. Oh, and did I mention extreme humidiy? Lots and lots of humidity?

 Life in the Midwest ain’t for the weak, LOL.

Feelin’ All The Feels!

It was a week with all kinds of feels in my midst.

The weather was “seasonal,” which is to be expected. The workouts tested my muscles (and a few may have had me questioning some life decisions, LOL). And there was a full moon! 

Just Keep Moving Forward!

Talk about your action-packed weeks!

Of course, that’s the way (uh huh, uh huh) I like it.   

Biking and walking were both vying for center stage. Strength training had some moments. A new July challenge started. And, running staged a rally-back. All was well as the summer heat (and requisite humidity) ushered us into the new month and Independence Day weekend.

A Star-Spangled Coffee Chat

All is well, and there’s a big USA holiday to celebrate!

Shall we have a quick coffee chat before the festivities commence? Even if we don’t have much time to catch-up, it’s great to have this (virtual) time together. 

So, let’s gather, and share a few laughs and some conversation…

When the Damp Runs Deep

Hello, summer heatwave!

Yowza! We all knew it was bound to happen, but the first heatwave of 2025 arrived on the scene rather quickly, and brought a lot of dampness with its punch. We’re talking lots of rain (causing flooding in what had been barren streams and valleys) and heavy humidity (that lasted most of the week).

Suffice it to say my hair spent most of the week off my (sweaty) face and in a messy bun (disguising the dreadful humidity-driven flatness and frizz). You do what you gotta do, right?

Shall we drop a few ‘Fessions?

Well, here we are again.

How is it the summer season is already breezing (practically) past us? It seems like we were just at the  ‘Fessional, coming clean on a few (or several) transgressions and whatnot. Yet, it’s time to partake, again, and wipe our soles (and souls) clean.

If you don’t mind, I’ll get the party started…

Awaiting Summer’s (official) Arrival…

It was a week of “heated” anticipation, quite in the literal sense.

After a crazy spring season, Summer finally made its official entrance this week. I, for one, welcomed it with open arms. It’s my favorite season, after all, and it seemed like it would never get here.

This week brought plenty of heat, especially towards the weekend. We also had a much-needed showing of rain, though my area is still under a water advisory. Oh, and the humidity returned as well. Two outta three ain’t bad, LOL.

Bacon, Bikes & Bliss - 2025 Baccoon Ride

I’m always up for a fun fitness adventure, and I’m grateful to have friends who share the same sentiment.

If there was an event that combined fitness (like cycling, for example), food (maybe bacon?) and a great venue (I’m thinking a favorite trail)…wouldn’t it be a grand time if a favorite friend joined you for the festivities? Add the camaraderie of fellow cycling enthusiasts (with plenty of sunscreen on standby) and you’d have the makings of a fabulous day…

Back to our Regularly Scheduled Summer

Let me say it…”Ahhhh.”

After a pretty solid week of seasonal weather, I am feeling all those happy summertime vibes…and I’m loving (almost) every bit of it. Even the occasional sting of perspiration, seeping into my sensitive eyes, can’t downplay the euphoria of Summer. 

 So, yeah, it was a fun, busy, and (at times) warm and balmy week in my world. The #OptOutside streak is still going strong (1,662 as of June 14th). The running is maintaining. The walking is dominating. The biking is on a definite upswing. All good things!

Rail2Trails 10K race recap

 
I’m a strong believer in keeping things local.

As much as I love the big races, I try to support the smaller local events whenever possible. When I saw a new race was premiering, a mere mile from my driveway, I promptly hit the “submit registration” button.

In all actuality, this race came at an optimal time. I’d just run the DAM-to-DSM Half Marathon a weekend prior, so the 10K was a perfect distance upon finishing a week of active recovery

Now That’s More Like It

Can I get an “Amen!”

Why? Because it feels like Summer has officially landed in Iowa! Is there anything better than a full week of pleasantly warm seasonal temps, especially after a couple weeks of dismal dreariness? 

I think we’re all in agreement that the 2025 weather has been anything but predictable. There’s been excessive wind, and unexpected warmth (though it was short-lived). Here’s hoping the true summer weather is here to stay for awhile.

Shall we chat over coffee?

 

Anyone else up for some chatting over coffee?

It’s hard to believe we are almost a week into June (how did THAT happen so quickly?). As with every new month, there are some things I’d like to share with anyone who’d like to join me around the (virtual) table.

Shall we get the chatting started?

Back to the DAM; 2025 DAM-to-DSM recap

There I went again….back to the DAM!

Little did I know, when I first crossed the Dam-to-Dam start line (in 2008), that I was embarking on a tradition that’s now 18 years long. It was my first long-distance event, and I was hooked within the first few miles on that epic day. 

And, I don’t plan to stop anytime soon…

Still Waiting for Summer’s Arrival

Well, we’ve had the sunshine and clear skies.

We are still entertaining crazy wind (most days) and chilly morning temps, though. I’m starting to think the wind is here to stay, but surely the temps are gonna feel more summer-like, right? Eventually? (Spoiler: things warmed up nicely but the weekend, and this next week is looking stellar!)

Seriously, though, 2025 has really been a piece of work in terms of weather thus far. It’s not keeping me inside, but still. It would be nice to not have to second guess the wardrobe on the daily. Or is that just me?

Some (early) Summer ‘Fessons

Yeah, here we are again!

It’s already that time of the month, when we humbly gather at the ‘fessional and spill it. Most of these ‘fessions (at least mine) are merely first world probes at best, but they still need disclosing. You know, for pace of mind and all that.

So, shall we get this ‘fession party started?

I Demand a Weather Re-Do!

Wow. Well played, Momma N, well played.

After a beautiful summer weather preview, she practically pulled the rug out from under my running shoes. The cold temps, cloudy skies, insane wind (yet again)! At last she (somewhat) righted herself by the weekend. But still.

Memorial Day Weekend implies summer, and I’m ready for it. I’d prefer the weather play along. 

Fitness Options for Honoring Memorial Day

Memorial Day is all about honoring our fallen heroes. 

Many little towns, big cities, and mid-size communities have some kind of tribute to memorialize those who served in the armed forces (but are no longer with us). Typically, there are graveside ceremonies, town hall concerts, and parades. 

Then there are those of us who are fitness fanatics...and we have our own ideas for commemorating the day. After all, isn't that what we do best?

Sunshine at its Best

Can you say Sunshine?

This past week was full of it! You know I was all about that, and I have some goofy tan lines (already) to show for it.

With weather like this, keeping my #OptOutside steak alive was an effortless no-brainer (BTW, as this post goes to press, my streak at 1,634 days). I’m all about that too. 

(not our typical) Market-to-Market Relay

The Market-to-Market Relay never disappoints.

I can say this with 100% accuracy as a longtime participant.

The preparation. The team camaraderie. The support from fellow runners. The pink gorilla. The race day excitement. The nonstop action until the finish line is crossed.

The 2025 M2M was one like none other, though….

Chillin’ in the Spring Heat

Now this feels more like it.

With the cold and windy winter over and gone, I have been embracing any and every semblance of warm weather. This week fit the bill with near perfection!

While most mornings were still on the chilly side, the afternoons gave way to summer-like temps. Granted, the wind has not mellowed much, but it has been much more tolerable. 

So this is Spring

Spring in Iowa. Hmmm…

It certainly has its moments, and it keeps me guessing. It keeps me pretty humble as well.

This week saw a little bit of everything (you know…crazy weather, early morning fitness, and DOMS). Hey, I guess that keeps me young, right?

A Cappuccino Chit Chat

Well, it’s been quite a month!

It feels like we finally turned the corner on winter-feels weather. The increasing daylight has been pure euphoria. And, after a few months of lowkey maintenance, I had three big events warranting race bibs.

I’d say things have been going well, and I’m eager to forge on ahead to even warmer temps and increased sunshine. But first, I’d like to detour to a virtual coffee gathering and play a brief game of Catch-Up.

Myself, I’m grabbing a hot hazelnut cappuccino. Care to grab a mug and join me at the table?

Grand Blue Miling & Smiling - 2025 recap

Comfort zones are overrated, and I ventured outside of mine again. 

The event was the Grand Blue Mile. The date was April 22, 2025. The place was downtown Des Moines. The time was 6:45 PM. 

My objective: run as fast as I can for one mile (and not die trying).

Keeping in Motion

There’s much to be said about the benefits of keeping in motion.

After all, we don’t gain much by remaining sedentary. This is true in terms of fitness, wellness, and emotional growth. This week was all about keeping things moving in the midst of busyness. I’d say mission accomplished! 

Things that need Aprilfessing

How is it that we’re already back at the ‘Fessional? 

Time certainly does fly, and the ‘fessions never seem to deplete themselves. The month of April was no exception. As we know, it’s best to free our running soles (and human souls) by coming clean. 

Shall we get this ‘fession party stared? Read on…

Drake Road Races 10K - 2025 recap

There’s something to say about consistency.

Like returning to a favorite event, year after year, even if you switch-up the distance on occasion. Case in point, the Drake Road Races, and I made it a priority to be there again.

Where There’s a Will…

Where there’s a will, there’s a way. At least that’s what they say, LOL. 

The crazy spring weather continues, and I’m facing it on the daily. If I can mention the wind again, I’d windfess that I don’t ever remember the magnitude of what Momma N has been throwing at us in recent months. We’re not talking a few simple wind gusts, but daily sustained wind with numbers usually in the upper teens for wind speed. 

Thankfully, the temps have been steadily on the rise and we’re seeing quite a bit of sunshine. Glass half full!

To Vest or Not to Vest: a few initial thoughts

In case you haven’t noticed, I jumped on the weighted vest “band wagon” recently.

I know, I know. Like I really needed one more fitness accessory in the arsenal. But, who am I kidding? The more, the merrier! 

After hearing so many good things about this fairly new fitness trend, I wanted to give it a try as well. After all, I’m a huge advocate for walking, why not UP the intensity a bit?

That Spring Feeling

Spring is officially here, and I’m definitely feeling its vibes.

The weather is warmer (for the most part). The daylight is exponentially increasing. The trees are budding. The grass is turning green. Spring bulbs are blooming. 

Yeah. Things are feeling good!

Perseverance Pays Dividends

Perseverance takes on a new meaning in dealing with the spring weather, at least in my little corner of the universe.

We’re talking erratic temps, intermittent precipitation, and nonstop windy conditions (emphasis on the windy, LOL). Facing all that nonsense, especially on the daily, does build character and strengthens one mental strength and tolerance. Not a bad payout!

At least that’s what I tell myself (also on the daily). 

Time for a Refill

Well, whaddya know? 

We’re already rockin’ a new month. That means it’s time to gather ‘round the virtual table and have a virtual chat. I don’t know about you, but I’m always game for such things.

We’ve had some chilly temps of recent, and I’ve been pounding the warm beverages like it’s my job. In fact, it’s been a challenge keeping my mug full. 

Speaking of which, I’m due for a refill; so how about we get this party started…

Back to the Stairs: Fight for Air Climb 2025 recap

 

There I was, back in the midst of the excitement.

After two months of weekly stair workouts, it was time to test the training at the Fight for Air Climb. This was the 22nd year of the Des Moines venue, and my 12th time participating in the festivities. 

Affiliated with the American Lung Association, the Climb takes part in numerous cities across the United States. The event raises funds for research, education, and advocacy for clean air and lung health. 

Nostalgia:101

Can we talk about nostalgia? 

Specifically, can we touch on nostalgia for the good old days when the wind wasn’t such a nuisance ? Or a daily occurrence? Or seemingly always in the double digits, in terms of wind speed?

It seems the wind has taken on a life of its own in recent years. Even in the warmer months, there seems to be more windy days than not (I know, because I’ve had to fight it on my bike). In the cooler months, though, it can sometimes be a deal-breaker, or a wild card at the minimum. 

Alas, it IS a reality. As much as I detest the wind, it’s part of the outdoor scene (more often than not). This week was no exception…   

Spring’s First ‘Fessions

Is anyone else ready, willing, and needing to ‘fess a few things?

Well, I certainly have a few things to bring to the ‘fessional. After all, there’s never a dull moment, right?

I’ll get right to it…

…another Week of Pi

 

I think we all knew it was bound to happen…again.

When I spontaneously gave in to a self-created challenge in 2020, little did I know it would become an annual ritual during my birthday week. I guess somethings are worth repeating!

This was my sixth time taking on the Week of Pi Challenge. Read on for all the deets…

Enough with the Wind!

Well, it was quite a week!

I’d have to say the obvious constant was, hands down, the incessant wind.

I’m ever grateful for my persistence in keeping the #OptOutside streak alive. As of Saturday, March 22nd, the daily count is sitting at 1,578. If it weren’t for that streak, and my self-imposed obligation to maintain it, there could have been a few near misses this week.

Alas, all is well, and there were no unnecessary desperate measures needed…

SpRiNg is in the air

 

Well well well, it appears Momma N isn’t all that bad.

At least she played nice this week. The 7-day forecast had showed unseasonably warm (and sunny) weather, and it was pretty much on-point. 

With my Week of Pi antics on the schedule, I had high hopes of pleasant (if not warm) conditions, and was envisioning several (if not all) of my Pi runs in shorts. Mission accomplished! Can I just say, “Thank you, Momma N!”