Weekly Run Down

Hello Mother!: 11/23 – 29 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 11 Comments

This week I was actually able to go into my mom’s apartment. Which meant I was actually able to use a bathroom. I stayed a little longer than I’d planned on, although less than the time limit — and since I was working on her Echo Show, we weren’t as socially distanced as I would have liked. I’m trusting in a higher spirit to look out for us!

bwrd

But first I’m joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and sharing “recovery” week.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), 1 mile hike, 3 Miles Easy, Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk., Yoga (20 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min), 6 mile LSD, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), Hiking, Yoga (20 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), runHike 3.5 miles, PB ST, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 9 (-2)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Yup, I can get lost on a 1 mile hike!

Tuesday intention: recovery run
I decided to explore the trails here (which are really bike trails) before my run as a warmup. Then I ran 3 miles easy. Wearing the Zensah mask the entire time; definitely helped that it was a cold day. Sunny though! Sun makes everything better. I managed to get lost just halfway into a 1 mile hike, but obviously I found my way out; not the same way I came in though!

Someone’s in a holiday mood!

Thursday intention: keep it slow long run
It was a cloudy day, but somewhat warm for Thanksgiving — I’ve been bombarded by memories of the dogs running through half a foot of snow six years ago on Thanksgiving. This Thanksgiving I should have worn a skirt!

I set out to just take it nice and easy. As I headed towards the college, I decided maybe I’d go 6 miles, which is the longest I’ve run in a while. It’s a couple of miles downhill to get there, so of course that means a couple of miles back uphill. I tried to do a fartlek using the trees, but I had to take a few breaks here & there.

Overall it was a surprisingly consistent run and I was thankful I missed the rain. Not quite as thankful for the family (or friends?) doing a virtual Turkey Trot in the neighborhood but running on the wrong side of the road.

Always lots to explore

Favorites of the week
I was able to go inside to my mom’s apartment for the first time in ten months. I was able to partially set up the Echo Show and we were able to video chat with Mr. Judy, who had to stay home because they are not allowing dogs inside. There’s still more work to do; we haven’t been able to initiate a call yet, but hopefully I’ll fix that soon. Maybe.

I stopped on the way at Olana, as has been my custom in the last few months. It was quite busy but since I hiked away from the house, mostly I had the trails to myself.

We zoomed with my family the day before Thanksgiving, and with Mr. Judy’s family Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving was relatively low key. I made an apple crisp, cornbread, and air fried some veggies. The star of the show was the Trader Joe’s Turkey en Croute, which just needs to be baked.

Flowers, my mom’s silver & table runner, & our China
Trader Joe’s Turkey en croute never disappoints
Someone was not amused there was no turkey en croute for him
Finally some decent sized carrots from the garden!
Enjoying a beautiful late Fall day; Bandit refuses to look at the camera!

When Mr. Judy says hey, it’s a nice day we should go somewhere (which he rarely does) who am I to say no? So I traded a hike for a run today. I was going to leave Bandit with Mr. Judy at the end so I could hike a bit more, but Bandit’s tail just drooped to the ground until I took him with me — so Mr. Judy was left to his own devices while we explored some more.

What are you grateful for this week?

Any great Black Friday deals?

How was your Thanksgiving? 

GWY Detox

ICYMI: More doubles this week: on Thanksgiving eve I shared a restorative Yin Yoga flow for digestion here. Today its a short, more Yang flow focusing on detox and digestion you’ll find here.

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m wrapping up November. Friday I’ll share some tea — or maybe some hot chocolate if I do my long run that day — come join us here (see the info on the sidebar).

Goodbyes are hard: 11/16 – 22 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 27 Comments

I wrapped up my Peloton 5k Training with the virtual Champion for the Chesapeake 5k (folded into my longish run this week). Unfortunately a week of bad news.

bwrd

But first I’m joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and sharing “race” week.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, 3ish TM miles, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (40 min), PB Walking + Toning, Dogwalk., Yoga (20 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Walk with Friend, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), 5 mile LSD (including Champions for Chesapeake Virtual 5k), Yoga (20 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), 3 recovery miles, Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 11 (NC)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Tuesday intention: easyish run
Will I or won’t I for my next virtual 5k? Haven’t really decided yet, but I think I’m going to try to run it this week. So if it’s “race week”, it’s time to take it a bit easier. Enter a Peloton Disco Fun Run + 10 min warmup & cooldown runs. There were still some intervals in the fun run, but I kept them conservative.

Zensah Mask. Surprisingly breathable. Definitely not cute, although I think I managed to put it on inside out!

Friday intention: how hard can I push for a virtual 5k?
Not too bad. First mile was the fastest, rookie mistake. I was doing pretty good until 2.5 miles into the “race” portion. I just couldn’t push anymore. Pushed pause, walked around a bit, then finished up with a fartlek. Hardly my fastest 5k, but the fastest I’ve run outside in a while, for sure.

Virtual is done, now I can wear the tee.

I also warmed up with a short walk, 1 mile run, cooled down with a 1 mile run. I wore a mask for the WU & CD, and I’ll write more about that on Tuesday. Then I walked some more, and did a short hike — I would have gone longer, but Bandit had been alone for about 3 hours by this point. He can go longer, but we’re rarely gone that long anymore and it makes him anxious so I needed to get home.

I’ll go back and hike that path some more there on a day when I don’t run — assuming it doesn’t really snow soon, which I don’t anticipate in the near future.

Many in the neighborhood seem to want to skip right over Thanksgiving in favor of Christmas. Don’t blame them!

Sunday intention: recovery run
It was cloudy and in the low 30s, but minimal wind. I kept it deliberately slow — I was rewarded with a nudge up on my V02 Max finally. Guess I haven’t been running my easy runs easy enough. Somehow I continue to pick the right running outfit, which isn’t easy in the transitional weather.

It was chilly but always good to catch up

Favorites of the week
My walk & talk with my friend & the scenery.

Off the beaten path

My short hike. It wasn’t super scenic. The beautiful Fall foliage is long gone. For me it’s about time in nature. Of course I love conquering a mountain, or more scenic hikes, but just being out in nature, walking through the woods — even if there’s no major scenery, it’s self care that I need — and there may only be a short time before snow makes it impossible.

Surprised to find this small bench in the woods

Mostly this week was marred by sadness. The past month hasn’t been easy. Of course there was the loss of Lola, and I still find myself blindsided by sadness fairly regularly.

My friend and her husband that I asked you to pray for — well, your prayers worked in that he was finally able to come home and be with his loved ones. On Hospice, though. I prayed for a miracle, but he has passed away.

One of Mr. Judy’s aunts lost her battle with breast cancer this week. Far too young at 77. We didn’t really know her well, as she was a step-aunt, and for much of her marriage to Mr. Judy’s uncle, we lived too far away to see them; there was no Zoom back then.

We attended a Zoom Shiva sitting session? Meeting? I don’t know what to call it really. We will also be attending a Zoom memorial service today.

On top of all that, one of the most recent COVID cases where my mom lives was just diagonally across the hall from my mom. My mom has been tested, which was negative, and they tested her again. They actually tested all the residents, and I’m happy to say that they’ll reopen dining for them again tomorrow.

Sorry to be such a Debbie Downer this week but unfortunately, like so many, that’s just what’s going on. I am one of the lucky ones, so far, knock on wood; those closest to me are okay.

Do you have to do conquer something outside, or just enjoy being out in nature?

If I wasn’t running I would ___________?

What are you grateful for this week? Friends & time in nature for me.

GWY Love Your Lower Legs

ICYMI: I’m still showing my lower legs some love. This will get into your feet, ankles, hamstrings — and especially your calves, too. It’s (mostly) not Yoga; it’s some of the exercises I do in the morning every single day, including foam rolling my calves. You can find it here.

Also, the Cacao Bliss I reviewed on the channel (and in this blog post here) has an offer for 5 travel packets for $9.95 right now here.

Coming up on Tuesday: I’ll share my thoughts about the Zensah gaiter & mask I bought for running way back in March or April — I finally wore both on recent runs. Friday I’m musing about how to celebrate the losses in life.

Sunrise, Sunset: 11/9 – 15 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 36 Comments

As I go over in my favs of this week, there were amazing sunsets this week — and some beautiful Monet-like sunrises, too. No, I’m not outside to see them, although I’m beginning to think maybe I need to grab the patio heater to watch the next one.

It was another week with minimal movement. It’s funny, on Tuesday I had a great short run, and the next day I felt run down. I went from running in a skirt and light long sleeve top on Tuesday, to bundling up in a beanie, neck gaiter, jacket, and tights on Friday for my longish run.

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and a strange week of strong running while feeling rundown.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, 3 miles easy-ish with fartlek/pickups (whatever you want to call it), Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk., Yoga (20 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), 5 mile LSD, Yoga (20 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), 3ish TM recovery miles (includes WU & CD runs), Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 11ish (NC)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Couldn’t pass up running outside on such a beautiful day. Yes, that’s a tree decorated for Christmas behind me. I say whatever makes you happy in 2020!

Tuesday intention: Push pace a little
It was way too nice to run inside and I had no pressing appointments for once so I ran outside. In a skirt. Thank God I changed from the heavier Watch Me Go Top to the Cool It Top — I could’ve worn a tank top!

Basically the second half of every mile I threw in short bursts of speed, aka  pick ups, totally randomly. Then the last half mile did a set of 5 x 30ish second strides. Nice negative splits. The first time that I felt I had some energy in a long, long time. The weather certainly helped.

Cold & gray but a good run. I didn’t run with the gaiter pulled up, but my sunglasses would fog up when I had to pull it up because of other people on the path.

Friday intention: take it easy, go a bit longer
I picked a park closer to me this week. It wasn’t great weather, so I felt fairly sure that it wouldn’t be as frustrating as last week’s “long” run and I was right. There were still almost no one wearing masks, but I also didn’t have to run through groups of people 5 deep.

Beauty even on a gray day — you have to open up & look around you

I wasn’t sure if I should take another rest day or not, but this run went surprisingly well. Pretty consistent and a decent pace — best of all, my running outfit was prefect for the weather.

Sunday intention: recovery run
Cold and windy but the rain held off so far. Today I was happy to run on the treadmill. I took it very easy, and enjoyed my recovery run (even if the Peloton instructor mixed up Nutcracker for Swan Lake at one point; yes, it was set to orchestral music).

I actually had to filter this photo to get it to approach how it really looked,  but it was even more stunning in RL

Favorites of the week
This sunset (as seen from our deck). The sky was on fire!

Bandit isn’t usually a fan of the photo shoot but he cooperated & those ears!

We finally got the results back on Bandit’s cysts. One is just a lipoma, which is pretty common in older dogs (and cats) and nothing to worry about. The other had a few suspicious cells, but the pathologist felt there were few enough that it’s most likely benign so we’ll just keep an eye on it. So good news finally!

First chicken wings in the air fryer

Neither one of us likes Buffalo wings, but Mr. Judy does enjoy roasted chicken wings. I’d been wanting to try these out in the air fryer for a while. In fact, I did the whole meal: wings, cauliflower, and fries, in the air fryer.

I had to use two oven racks, as you don’t want to crowd stuff in the air fryer. I put the potatoes below the wings intentionally so they would soak up some schmaltz (chicken fat). It worked beautifully.

Yummy final results

Because Mr. Judy likes his wings crunchier than I do, I put his in first. He was happy with his. I’m not particularly fussy about it, but mine could have used some more time in the oven, too.

The first carrot I pulled was a carrot nub; a few weeks later a real carrot

I didn’t cover the carrots last night, though, and we had a hard freeze. They still need a bit more time. Hopefully I didn’t freeze them all.

Do you have an air fryer, or have you considered one?

Are you a fan of chicken wings?

How’s running going for you right now?

GWY Yin Yoga for Calves

ICYMI: I’m showing my lower legs some love this week. This will get into your feet, ankles, hamstrings — and especially your calves. Because I have really tight calves! You can find it here. It is a longer practice, but I also spend some time demoing several options for a pose towards the end; so it’s not as long as you think it is. If you have tight legs and feet (and what runner doesn’t), this will help you.

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m jumping ahead on the Tuesday Topics linkups and sharing why I’m still grateful for running in 2020 — kind of a rebuttal to my own post this week on whether or not I will ever run another half marathon (which you can read here). On Friday I’m talking about recovery hot chocolate, my simple recovery hot chocolate recipe — and sharing some of my favorite healthy hot chocolate mixes.

New Normal Deja Vu: 11/2 – 8 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 31 Comments

I won’t lie: life is much easier without Lola. The sadness lingers, though, of course, and I’d trade the easiness for more time with her, but it is what it is. Is was the right decision. My heart has been heavy much of this week, but we laugh, too, because life truly does go on.

The only thing certain in life is change. Speaking of change, while I’m very happy that Biden/Harris are the apparent winners of our elections, I also caution people: don’t gloat. Show grace. See my post here about compassion and respect, even though it wasn’t written about the election, it applies to it.

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and healing through movement and time in nature.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (30 min), TM Peloton 5k Prep + WU + CD (3.20 miles), Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), PB Walking + Toning (30 min), Dogwalk., Yoga (20 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min), Peloton Intervals (3ish miles), Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), Short walk/hike on way to moms, Yoga (20 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), Long walk/hike with friend, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), 5 mile “LSD”, Couple of miles walking WU & CD, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 11ish (+1)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Tuesday intention: 5k Prep
I could definitely have run outside, as the rain stopped early, but since I’m using the Peloton 5k Course, I’m sticking with the treadmill for a couple of runs during the week. So far, anyway. This was mostly intervals, at 5k and 1 mile pace (whatever that may be). It was definitely not easy, but I did my best.

Thursday intention: More speed work
Bandit was due for a long overdue annual (mostly because of all the problems with Lola). Plus I was headed to my mom the next day, and there’s always some prep for that, more so this time because I was getting the Echo Show ready to take with me.

The mill would be faster even though it was a great day to run. I did a 45 minute interval run, and I didn’t need extra run time on that, so I did a quick 5 minute stretch before & after. Go me.

Beautiful day but masks in hands does nothing people! You never know what you’ll see outside.

Sunday intention: longer run
It was a lovely day to run today, but I learned my lesson: don’t go up to this park on a weekend when the weather is unseasonably warm! Very few people felt the need to wear a mask, and the path isn’t that wide. 

I grew increasingly frustrated as I pulled my doubled over gaiter up and down constantly — and many people walked around with their mask in the their hand. Even with my early warning of “coming up on your left”, people felt no need at all to actually put that mask on. I definitely grumbled (somewhat under my breath) at one point that wearing your mask on your hand does nothing. Maybe I should’ve saved this for runfessions this month!

Now I know how to get to this trail!

Favorites of the week
I hate the reason, but not having to take care of Lola meant more time for walking/light hiking/visiting mom. First we visited a small park Darlene @ Myfirst5k goes to sometimes with the running group.

As I drive to mom, I’ve often seen this path along the highway leading off into the woods. I wondered where the heck it was. Now I know. Oddly enough this was the park that Darlene and I tried SUP 4 1/2 years ago — I know this because it was the day we would end up adopting Bandit, the day before the fourth.

We helped Chester cross the bridge a day after New Years. Lola on Halloween. Adopted Bandit the day before the fourth. What the heck is it with our rescue dogs?

Watching seasons change at Olana

I never have enough time when I stop at Olana, but the bathroom continues to be open and I continue to use this as my pitstop. Not bad, eh?

Long walk & talk with a friend

Yesterday it was a long walk/hike with a friend who has gone through many of the same things I have since I moved here. We get each other. She works crazy hours (still), so we only get together once in a while, but we always have so much to catch up on when we do.

Not so favorite: I was astounded that I was able to get an appointment for Bandit so quickly. The news was mixed, and we’re waiting on some test results on the cysts on his chest.

The vet did tell us she heard a very slight heart murmur. I am 3 for 3 for dogs & heart murmurs. That doesn’t really worry me, though, it’s very slight right now. Lola had a slight heart murmur detected at about the same age as Bandit is now, but while it effected her, it never was a big deal and wasn’t what got her  in the end.

Still questions this week. Love on your loved ones.

gwy calm heart meditation

ICYMI: I have thought about creating a meditation for grief for a long time. Sometimes you create what you need for yourself. Yes, I’ve been using this meditation daily since we lost Lola. You can find it here.

Coming up on Tuesday: I have a fun blog on the lessons runners can learn from dogs (no doubt with many Lola photos — that girl was a great sprinter). On Friday I’ll be musing about if I’ll ever run another half marathon.

RIP Lola (2005 – 2020): 10/26 – 11/1 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 45 Comments
Saying goodbye is never easy

It was a long, long week. Physically and emotionally draining. Lola improved, just slightly, then she got worse. The runs were short, although that doesn’t always mean they were easy.

She loved laying by the patio heater this week

Even last night, this wasn’t the post I thought I’d be writing, but Lola went to her final sleep in my arms last night (at the animal ER).

Meanwhile Bandit is enjoying not having doors closed anymore

Sleep was often interrupted, there have been six visits to two different vets in the last week. Even when the runs felt hard, though, in the end I felt better for doing them and am happy I was able to squeeze them in.

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and reporting on easing back into running.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk/RGB Walk 2.9, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (30 min), TM Peloton 5k Prep + WU + CD (2.77 miles), Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk., Yoga (20 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min),Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), TM “Fun Run” + WU 3ish miles, Yoga (20 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), 4 miles easy, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), Walking at the park, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 10ish (+1.5)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Tuesday intention: 5k Prep
This had to be squeezed in before taking Lola to the vet. Not quite sure what to expect, but it was mostly intervals. I debated about waiting until Wednesday, as I hadn’t had a good night’s sleep, but I’m glad I went ahead and did it; it gave me more flexibility with runs the rest of the week, and with cold, rain, snow, and wind in the forecast I needed that!

Thursday intention: take it easy
Because of all the stress lately and sleep deprivation, a Pop Fun Run sounded perfect to me. Fun run my a$$! This was speed work, plain & simple, but it was a short enough run that once I started it, I was sorta committed. Oh well, I survived it. 

Halloween is in the hood
But the snow was gone

Saturday intention: run out the sadness (again)
I dropped Lola back off at the ER right before this run. Or rather, I was foam rolling and getting ready for this run, when she threw up again and it was clear she needed to be seen. Knowing I probably had hours until I heard from the vet — they are so slammed these days — I decided I would attempt to run. Stopping to check my phone every mile.

I wondered what was going to go on in there?

My heart and legs felt heavy, it wasn’t fast, it felt hard. No doubt from lack of sleep and emotions. It was slow, but fairly consistent, so there’s that. It was also a lovely day, and I tried to be present enough to enjoy it — although it wasn’t easy.

Of course not long after this run and a quick hop in the shower to warm up, we got the call from the vet. Lola’s kidney values were very elevated, which wasn’t shocking to me, but for the first time in our 35 years of married life, the vet strongly urged us to put her to sleep. Right away.

She also told me she could make her comfortable for the weekend, and she had an appointment with the holistic vet on Monday. I know the holistic vet could have made her feel better . . . for a while. It’s not curable, though, of course, and it’s much harder on dogs than cats. We made the hard decision to let her go.

Fish “Fry”

Favorites of the week
I never wrote about our new Breville Toaster Oven/Air Fryer we bought for our anniversary. Something I’d been eyeing a long time. Like the Instant Pot, there’s a learning curve, but so far we really like it. The entire meal above was made in its air fryer — Mr. Judy liked it, and he can be a tough customer.

Finding solace in nature

I really haven’t been able to get away much lately. Lola couldn’t be left alone for more than a few minutes at a time. This morning, though, I needed to get away and go for a walk, so I did. It’s not a pretty day, it’s very windy, and we keep losing Internet, but I found some healing in nature. The rest will just take time.

And just like that, the two cats and two dogs we moved here with 11 1/2 years ago are gone.

I’m also going to ask for prayers for a neighbor’s husband. He’s been in the hospital with COVID — he did have underlying conditions — but at the moment it’s not looking great and she’s not even allowed to visit him.

No questions this week. Love on your loved ones.

GWY Gentle Moon Salutations

ICYMI: I actually did manage to get up a video this week — early, even. Because I wanted people to have the opportunity to do it on the Halloween Full Moon — it goes really well with a full or new moon! You can find it here.

Coming up on Tuesday: I have started to make my own nut milk, and I’m going to share how that’s going. Maybe it’s a stretch to share on a running linkup, but hopefully you guys will be ok with it. On Friday I’ll be joining so many friendly bloggers here for tea — or coffee if that’s your thing.

Best & Worst of Times: 10/19 – 25 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 26 Comments

This week didn’t start off as I planned, but it was pretty good — until the weekend. Then things went rapidly downhill.

I had targeted a park that was a little further away than we usually go for our anniversary roadtrip. I’d been there, once, and I thought Mr. Judy might enjoy it, too. We didn’t go on our actual anniversary, as the weather wasn’t great, although it wasn’t a lot better on the day we did go.

The weather wasn’t pretty but we still enjoyed our day

Unfortunately that night Lola fell ill. She could barely walk and sometimes couldn’t even stand. She stopped eating and drinking — and she’s always been a really big drinker. We’re still not 100% sure what is causing it (still); any and all good vibes and prayers are much appreciated.

Right before she started acting strange

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and reporting on easing back into running.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (30 min),  Dogwalk/RGB Walk 2.9, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (50 min), TM Intervals 2.53, Dogwalk/RGB Walk .92, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk./RBG Walk 5 (and just like that, RBG is a wrap)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min),RBG Walk/Dogwalk/Hike 2.50, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (30 min), Much pacing at Animal ER, TM Run 2 + Core
  • Saturday:  Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), Easy 4 miles, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 8.43 (-.49)
Walking: Finished RBG; don’t think I’ll be tracking walking on the regular now but still trying to add in some extra miles

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Monday intention: oops, I didn’t really think about one
Probably because I am using the Peloton Road to 5k (partially) for my virtual 5k in about a month. It was speedwork today. May have actually run it a bit slowly, but always better to save it for the “race”/

Friday intention: destress
If you follow me on FB here, you know that we had a belated road trip for our anniversary on Thursday (our actual anniversary was Monday). Everything seemed fine, until that night, when Lola started to act odd. There was sleep deprivation. The next morning she was even worse, and we ended up at the animal ER. 

After pacing around waiting for many hours while they tried to diagnose and treat her (no real diagnosis, possible UTI and other things that could be much worse but we elected not to spend $$$ on testing for things that probably aren’t really treatable at her age), I finally brought her home and for the first time in a really long time I felt the need to pound out some stress. Of course there’s been lots of stress all year long, but most of the time, I haven’t felt the need to run hard. Today I did.

This particular Peloton workout as part of the Road to 5k obliged with some speed work.

Sunday intention: run out the sadness
Lola is hanging in there after a second trip to the ER (ka-ching, ka-ching) and still no definitive diagnosis. Mr. Judy was very pleased that she ate & drank a bit on her own after he picked her up while I was running. As I’m typing this, she doesn’t seem too interested in treats again, but we’re grilling a steak so fingers crossed. She’s sighing a lot. I’m not terribly surprised, I warned Mr. Judy not to get too excited. She did enjoy some steak.

My heart was just heavy as I ran, but I’m still hopeful. She already has an appointment at the holistic vet, but getting in to any vet, and especially specialists, which was suggested, is super hard right now. It can take months to get an appointment.

I had originally planned a slightly longer run, but by the time I got out the afternoon was almost moving into evening so 4 it was. Probably just as well, there was sleep deprivation again last night.

There’s a deer hiding out on the left

Favorites of the week
On a better note, I met one friend I haven’t seen this year in the flesh for a walk this week.

Back at the pond

Then later in the week I met another friend for a walk near the pond and on the fitness path.

Finding Fall at the ER vet

Are you using running to help you destress lately?

What other things do you do to destress? 

What is one thing you’re proud you did this week? 

Releasing Yin Yoga

ICYMI: This week I have a longer Yin Yoga practice to help you release — whatever you have to release! It will also help you open up your hips, your low back, and your chest. You can find it here.

Coming up on Tuesday: Yup, it’s time to wrap up October! On Friday I’ll be visiting the Runfessional here to cleanse my running soul.

Mr. Judy to the Rescue: 10/12 – 18 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 30 Comments

Yes, there is some running to report this week! Nothing wild, just a few short runs. Still lots of Yoga and walking. Less walking, though, because . . . running. My running miles basically replaced my extra walking miles from the previous week.
bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and reporting on easing back into running.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk/RGB Walk 3.00, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (50 min), TM Intervals 2.71, Dogwalk/RGB Walk .38, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk./RBG Walk 4.59
  • Thursday: Yoga (60 min),RBG Walk/Dogwalk/Hike 2.50, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (40 min), TM Run 2.21 + Legs, RBG Walk .42
  • Saturday:  Yoga (50 min), RBG Walk/Dogwalk 2.76, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (40 min), RBG Walk/Hike 2.22, Easy 4 miles, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 8.92 (=8.92)
Walking: 15.87 miles (-9.45)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Tuesday intention: Restart Running safely
Circumstances had me running on the two rainy days this week, which meant treadmill runs for me. I also started a loose version of the Peloton Road to 5k Program. Today’s run was intervals. I may have run a bit harder than I’d really intended but all was well and there was never any DOMs.

Friday intention: Running but finally some weights!
More rain. More treadmill miles. This time it was a 10 min WU, 20 min run with 10 min of legwork. Somehow following a Peloton class makes it much easier on the treadmill (for me).

I started with a warmup walk through the woods

Sunday intention: Go the distance . . .
. . . but not really. Just a slightly longer run than the first couple of runs — but easy! Although somehow negative splits. The mostly downhill second half might have had something to do with that. I started out with a walk through the woods (pictured above) to warm up.

Then onto my run

It was a bit hillier than I’d intended, but I had all the colored leaves to keep me entertained.

And this is where things went sideways

I chose a different way back because it was supposed to bring me back to where I’d parked. Then I got to the “path end” sign and had no idea how to go. I ended up calling Mr. Judy because I hate the maps app on my iphone 6, and he was able to point me in the right direction. I knew I was so close, but after walking back and forth for about a mile, I was getting darn hungry and anxious, too.

We’re at peak in the neighborhood

Favorites of the week
Despite a couple of days of rain, we’re really at peak up here in upstate NY and we’ve been blessed with some great Fall weather, too.

Fueled up for our walk

I didn’t need ice cream for most of my short walks/hikes this week, but since we got a warmer day — and I don’t like ice cream when it’s cold — this could be the last of the season.

Loved our walk around this pond so much I returned to this area to run (not the trails we walked on)
Short walk at another nature preserve with the dogs

This particular preserve had warnings about the duck hunting going on. A lot of people were still walking. I decided to chance it. I could hear shots, but never very close.

I needed this hot chocolate today!

You guys, this hot chocolate is da bomb. Seriously. I made it with chocolate cashew milk I made. I add collagen, turmeric paste, and some mini chocolate chips to it so it’s nice and creamy and chocolatey. Today I actually added some whipped cream and cinnamon (unpictured) because I ended up going a lot farther than I’d planned to! Yes, at some point I’ll be posting about my nut milk making adventures.

Oh, and that’s the Echo Show 8 we bought for my mom in the background. I’m working on setting it up for  her. We got a good deal on Prime Day; it’s not as good a deal now, of course, but it is slightly discounted here (Amazon Affiliate link). The sound is great! I’ve been having fun with it, when I’m not tearing my hair out how to get stuff working, of course. It’s been that kind of week. Sorry for the long post!

Do you ease back into running after a break or just pick up where you left off?

Do you embrace walking in addition to running or do you always feel the need for speed? 

What is one thing you’re proud you did this week? 

gwy self healing meditation

ICYMI: Sometimes video and audio fights me, and that was the case this week. I finally did get my Self Healing meditation put together after much hair pulling (ironic, no?) and you can find it here. Or maybe not. The first try at uploading it hung up. I’ve never had that happen before. I’m trying again but it’s unlikely to be live by the time I post.

Coming up on Tuesday: I finished my 40 Day Kriya and I’m sharing my thoughts on that. On Friday it’s a very personal post. Please view it with compassion and know that it’s not aimed at any person/s in particular.

Generator/Instant Pot to the rescue!: 10/5 – 11 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 35 Comments

Not running actually frees up some of my time. Yes, I’m walking more, but that doesn’t take as much pre- and post-routines (for me). Of course I could explore by running in the places I’m walking, but one problem I have is that I get so sweaty running that I can be uncomfortable post run if I have to drive a longer way home.
bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and just the walks, ma’am.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk/RGB Walk 3.67, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk/RGB Walk 5.39, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk./RBG Walk 2.50, Yoga (15 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (50 min),RBG Walk/Dogwalk 2.80, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (50 min), RBG Walk/Hike 6.20
  • Saturday:  Yoga (50 min), RBG Walk/Dogwalk 3.1, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (30 min), RBG Walk/Hike 1.66, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 0 (NC)
Walking: 25.32 miles (+3.30)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

TX was bluebonnets, NY is leaves

Week intention: Recovery
That was the intention, but the Mother Nature had something else in mind. Wednesday afternoon we had a really short, really severe storm pass through. We weren’t hit hard, but there were trees down all over the neighborhood. 

We lost power for almost 3 days. Luckily we have a generator, but it doesn’t power everything, and it’s really loud — which made sleep difficult. Still I am very grateful for that generator — sleep would have been just as difficult without heat! Plus it powers our freezer & fridge. Most of my cooking was in the InstantPot or  Toaster Oven.

I hadn’t intended my running break to be quite this long, but the purpose was recovery, and I knew returning to running while really tired from sleep deprivation wasn’t in my best interest. There was lots of walking (and photos), though!

Started to take Lola on short walks; she was never happy being left behind!

Favorites of the week
The week started with a trip to mom with a stop at Olana first. I got to explore more trails. I definitely want to go sometime when I have even more time to explore!

We used this carrier above to carry Lola up the steps at Olana & to try to keep her calm while I visited with mom
It helped to keep her a *little* calmer

A short walk at a nearby nature trail

I took a solo walk at a nearby park & a little hike

10k walk/hike at Saratoga Spa State Park

Short walk with the dogs at one of my favorite (short) running trails

Today we visited a new place. May be the best place we’ve visited so far!

Lots of walking and Yoga, not much else. I wish I’d preloaded a few Peloton classes, but I didn’t. Plus . . . sleep deprivation most of the week, mom visit, vet visit for Lola . . . it was a busy work even without Wifi. I got in some amazing walks & lots of fall foliage, though!

How’re the leaves looking near you (if they turn)?

How do you cook without power? 

What is one thing you’re proud you did this week? 

ICYMI: I had several things almost ready to film, but there was the generator noise — and no way to upload. Uploading video take s a long time. I plan to get a new meditation up soon. Stay tuned.

Coming up on Tuesday: Not sure yet. On Friday I share part of why I took my running break. I actually wrote that for last Friday, but it wasn’t finished, and I don’t have unlimited data, so this Friday it will be. I’m obviously very far behind on commenting on blogs and returning comments! Thanks for your patience.

Walking for RBG: 9/27 – 10/4 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 27 Comments

Nothing very exciting going on this week. No running to report (planned for break). Although I actually did get in more miles walking than I normally would with running, due to the Run for Ruth distance challenge.
bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and running/walking my virtual Dempsey Challenge races.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk, RGB Walk 3.13, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk./RBG Walk 3.58, Yoga (15 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (50 min),RBG Walk/Dogwalk 4.63, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (50 min), RBG Walk/Dogwalk 3.20, PB Walk + Toning (25 min)
  • Saturday:  Yoga (50 min), RBG Walk/Dogwalk 2.5, Filmed Yoga Videos (40 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (40 min), RBG Walk with a friend 5.62, Yoga (20 min)

Mileage: 0 (-10)
Walking: 22.62 miles

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

Week intention: taking it easy
Which meant no running for me this week. Despite decent weather, I didn’t really miss it, either. I did lots of walking. I *think* Bandit seems to be enjoying his extra, solo walks.

Bandit is not amused to lose his freedom a little, too

Favorites of the week
Lola continues to improve, but we’re not back to walks yet. The vet suggested only on grass. Well, she’s running around the backyard & where the heck are we going to be able to go for a short walk on grass? Actually I do have a few ideas.

Foggy start but the runway lights were cool!

But first a walk with a friend this morning. Miles always go by more quickly with a friend.

It doesn’t cost anything after Labor Day (except on the weekends)

Earlier in the week I visited Saratoga Spa State Park. I have run and raced a handful of times in this park, in fact normally I’d be doing a 10k there in a couple of weeks, but I don’t really know my way around it well and quite frankly I don’t think the road and trail signs are great.

Still I had a very nice walk that morning, enjoying the changing leaves and a waterfall or two.

The main reason I joined the walk for Ruth was the tshirt. Well, of course to honor her memory, too. Have you done a virtual just because you liked the swag?

Do you think the trails in your area are well marked? 

What is one thing you’re proud you did this week? 

GWY Easy AM Yoga1

ICYMI: An easy AM Yoga flow to banish any stiffness after sleeping here. Please excuse the resting b#*ch face. Sometimes it’s hard to get a great still!

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m finally giving you the lowdown on nasal breathing. On Friday I’ll suggest a few ways you can make virtual races more funI’m explaining why I decided to take a running break.

Leaves are a’popping: 9/21 – 26 WRD

~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 33 Comments

After our cold snap last week, trees are popping out in color all over the place. Way too early, but there’s something about the changing leaves . . . even if I never missed that the 17 years we lived in TX!

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and running/walking my virtual Dempsey Challenge races.

Workouts update

  • Monday: Yoga (50 min), 3 miles easy (with 5 strides at end), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Tuesday: Yoga (30 min), Walk while waiting for Lola @ Vet, Yoga (20 min)
  • Wednesday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (15 min)
  • Thursday: Yoga (30 min), Dempsey Challenge Virtual 10k + .8 mile warmup, Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Friday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk
  • Saturday:  Yoga (50 min), Dempsey Challenge Virtual 5k Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
  • Sunday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)

Mileage: 10 (-3)

JY = Jasyoga
PB = Killer B
TM = Treadmill
YFR = Yoga for Runners*
WU = warmup
CD = cooldown
SB = Stationary Bike
YFPR = Yoga for Pain Relief
YTU = Yoga Tune Up Lower Body*

*Disclaimer: Amazon affiliate links; I will make a small amount of money if you buy through these links

Running Update

#allthepmpkins

Monday intention: Remind legs they can go fast
An easy run with strides at the end to work on turnover. Another nice day, although I kinda felt like I was dragging. The busyness of September catching up with me, I guess. Still it was negative splits. Last mile pretty darn fast for me (due to pausing my watch when I walk back uphill between strides).

Every day new trees are turning

Thursday intention: get stronger + speed
I chose to run my Dempsey Challenge 10k today instead of my usual long-run Saturday, thinking the weather would be cooler (maybe not so much, turns out). We’d still warmed up and it was humid, but not Summer-humid thankfully.  I ran .8 mile to warm up, then another 3.1 in the neighborhood (rolling hills).

6 pence

Then I took off downhill for the second half of the 10k. Yup, the second half was significantly faster. At one point I spied a penny — then another, then another — all in all there were six socially distanced pennies. Weird! Yes, I picked them up.

Then I walked almost 3 miles back up the hills, and then it was another 1.5 mile cool down walk with Mr. Judy and Bandit and stick a fork in me I was done — for the rest of the day! I was tired. I don’t think it was the “race” so much as all that time out in the sun. I felt fine the next day.

If you’d like to donate to my fundraiser, you can (until the end of September)  right here. 100% of your donations goes to support services for people battling cancer.

Dempsey Challenge 5k

Favorites of the week
In addition to running my virtual Dempsey Challenge on Thursday, we walked 5k on Saturday (the actual day of the road races, normally — there’s also cycling races) with Bandit. He was a bit balky towards the end (we had to pass our house to make sure it was really 3.1).

Bandit post 5k

Best use for beets!

Then there was this red velvet mug cake. It got its coloring from beets. Which I’ve had coming out of my ears with our veggie share.

Trying to block her escape route

Lola is better, but she is not amused at all at not being able to go on our walks. If she liked to be carried I’d take her with us that way, but alas, she really doesn’t. Luckily we have a gate that can attach to the top of our stairs, which Mr. Judy did. We carry her up & down those stairs. Sometimes she still goes up and down onto the couch, even though we try to help her and she has steps — she’s still darn fast for just about 15!

What are you looking at? Feather? What feather?

Run any virtual races lately?

Enjoying a little Indian Summer? We are for a few days!

What is one thing you’re proud you did this week? 

GWY Pre Run Yin3a

ICYMI: One last Yin Yoga Pre Run Warmup and it’s the shortest one yet! I’ll get  you out for your run in just a little over eleven minutes here. All of these practices are great post run, too — or even the night before a hard workout.

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m wrapping up my September. On Friday let’s grab some coffee or tea and get together to share what’s going on in our monthly coffee date here.