I Did Not Throw Away My Shot: 4/19 – 25 WRD

April 25, 2021April 25, 2021 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 38 Comments

Another week where I knew I would have limited time to get in fitness. Glad that I decided to do my long run on Monday — it sure wasn’t going to happen after my vaccine!

bwrd

I’m joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and running into that second vaccine.

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (20 min), 7 mile LSD, Yoga (50 min)
Tuesday: Yoga (20 min), Dogwalk, 3 recovery miles, Filmed Yoga Video (60 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (40 min)
Thursday: Complete Post COVID vaccine rest day due to fever
Friday: Yoga (20 min), Dogwalk
Saturday: Yoga (20 min), Dogwalk, Filmed Yoga Video (60 min)
Sunday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, Hopefully some light Toning

Running Mileage: 10 (-2.5)

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

**Interesting artwork along the bike path**

Monday Intention: add distance, take it easy
Well, that was the intention, anyway. I did add a half mile to come up to 7 miles. And it was so hard. Despite multiple pauses to check my phone (tracking a grocery delivery). I tried to keep the pace easy, and it was quite consistent — but actually one of my faster long runs in recent history.

I saw a dead fox along the path. That was a first — I’ve never seen any foxes near that path at all. I wanted to get in a long run this week — don’t ask me why, since I’m not training for anything — and between the weather and the second vaccine this seemed like the best day. The good news is I finished, my Achilles felt good — during and afterwards. The bad news is that every long run has been a struggle lately.

**That piece of hive on the road was a different location than the hive in the tree; both seen on the same run**

Tuesday Intention: recover — go slow!
Well, I tried. This would be super slow for a lot of runners, but as a recovery run, even though it was slow for me and didn’t feel hard — it was probably faster than it should have been. I kept consciously trying to slow it down but it still wasn’t where it should have been; I was watching my Garmin, too, which I normally don’t do.

**We went from this pretty day to rain & wintry mix the next**

I’m not a big fan of the recovery run, but I had my second vaccine coming up the next day, and I felt like it’s actually better not to run right before your vaccine. Even though I ended up doing exactly that for the first — but I actually didn’t know I’d be getting vaccinated that day when I went out to run. The weather on Wednesday looked to be really nasty, anyway. Rain and potential thunderstorms.

Favorites of the week
It’s kind of a favorite/not favorite thing this week: I got my second vaccine. Luckily I got home before the Wintry mix kicked in!

As I suspected I had a reaction, and yes, it was worse than the reaction to the first vaccine.

I stayed busy post shot, folding laundry, doing Yoga with a lot of arm work, went to bed with just a slightly sore arm.

My reaction was thankfully short lived, with fever, complete loss of appetite (hello, fever), and body aches for 24 hours. I’ve been tired the last few days, but otherwise feeling back to normal. Oddly my arm wasn’t as sore as the first time, and yes, I made sure to move it the first time too.

It’s all worth it to feel a little peace of mind, although I also keep in mind that no vaccine is 100%.

**I didn’t take any snuggling pics but he was in a weird position here**

Nurse Bandit was on the job. He didn’t snuggle all the time, but he did snuggle with me a lot more than usual.

Are you training for something?

Have you raced recently?

GWY Sacral Chakra

ICYMI: We’re stretching out your hips while chatting about the Sacral Chakra in today’s practice. You’ll find the video here.

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m sharing one of my favorite pre-run snacks. Friday it’s time to runfess over hot chocolate.

All the Seasons: 4/12 – 18 WRD

April 18, 2021April 18, 2021 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 44 Comments

I had to cram a lot of fitness into the first part of my week this week, so it’s been a very busy couple of weeks. I wrote this post as the week went along; so much easier to remember what happened that way.

I get my second vaccine next week. Moderna is known for more side effects, and I already had effects from the first. This time at least I know it’s coming, so I’m doing some things that may head off those effects — like drinking Nuun Immunity every day.

bwrd

I’m joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and doing my best to stay active.

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (20 min), 3 miles (with 3 long hill repeats, Dogwalk, Yoga (50 min)
Tuesday: Yoga (45 min), Easy Hiking at Olana, Yoga (10 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (20 min), Very Short Dogwalk, 6.5 mile LSD, Yoga (40 min)
Thursday: Yoga (60 min), Dogwalk, PB ST (25 min)
Friday: Yoga (35 min), Filmed Yoga Vidoe (50 minutes), 3 TM miles Intervals, Yoga (20 min)
Saturday: Yoga (50 min), Dogwalk, PB ST (25 min), Yoga (20 min)
Sunday: Yoga (20 min), Dogwalk, Yoga course (75 min)

Running Mileage: 12.5 (+.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

Monday Intention: easy run
It was supposed to be rainy, so I’d planned out my week to run Tuesday. I also planned out my week to visit my mom on Wednesday, and then remembered she plays bridge on Wednesday. So I ran two days in a row so that I could visit her on Tuesday instead (Thursday and Friday were supposed to be rainy again).

**I’m surprised we don’t see more of this sort of thing**

I did long/short hill repeats. Up the long hill, down and over to the shorter hill, down the short hill, back to the long hill — 3 times. Oddly enough this run actually felt fine. Strong. Maybe because of the cool (50ish), lightly rainy weather.

**Don’t ask me why I headed down this knowing I’d have to go back up it!**

Wednesday Intention: go the distance, don’t push too hard
Between last week and this week, I’ve crammed in a lot of activity with not as much rest as I probably need. It was a beautiful day, but warm. Mr. Judy was away, so I had to make sure Bandit got a short walk before I left to do my long run. Had I known Thursday wouldn’t be as rainy as forecast . . .

This run started out strong, I was dressed correctly, but I got out too late and after a few cool days the warmer temps really wore me down. I reached for a few tricks, but they didn’t really help. At the end of mile 5 there was a loooong walk break. I did tack on an extra half mile, but I’m not sure that made up for that walk break!

Well, it was definitely more time on my feet. Coming up on the weekend I had a course both days, so I wanted to try and get a long run in before that. Which is how I ended up running more days bunched together than I have in a while!

Friday Intention: a little speed
With snow on the ground a treadmill run was a no brainer. I’m not really sure why I chose an interval run, it was a somewhat intense week, but it went okay. It was a slight miracle that the mill and my Garmin just about agreed on the mileage — so weird, usually the Garmin is way off (faster) than the mill.

**There are people much better at landscaping than us! And I get to enjoy it.**

Favorites of the week
All the signs of Spring, even if it was cool and cloudy, even if we did have some snow on Friday and spotty cold rain on the weekend. This is why I prefer Spring to Fall — it’s pretty, the days are getting longer, not shorter, and it just feels so hopeful — as long as you don’t watch the news.

Spring is s great time to visit Olana! April flowers!

Those signs were amply on display at Olana this week! It was chilly when I got there, but the clouds began to break up and eventually it was really pretty. I ate my lunch there and did a little sketching.

**Bandit vegging out while I take a Yoga for athletes course**

Seriously, Mr. Judy was gone most of the day yesterday, and I had 3 hours straight in the morning and Bandit laid there without moving (much). I left the door open so he could go out, but he never got off the chaise. I was freezing! It was colder than forecast.

Today I have the second half, but we’re supposed to do some Yoga this morning, Mr. Judy is home, and I suspect Bandit might not hang out with me but we’ll see.

Did Winter come back to visit this week?

Are you training for something? If yes, how’s that training going?

GWY Root Chakra

ICYMI: A lovely stretch for your lower body, ending with several restorative poses. I’ll be explaining more about the Root Chakra, posing a lot of questions, and suggest that you journal after this practice. You’ll find the video here.

Coming up on Tuesday: My pre long run/LSD routine. Friday I’m . . . not sure yet!

We Can Rebuild Her: Runfessions February 2021

February 26, 2021February 26, 2021 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 34 Comments

brebuild

I slowly and steadily eased back into running and strength training in February. Some of that strength training was the never ending shoveling. We were actually quite lucky, no monster storms in February, but there was snow often. It seemed as though it always fell on a running day, so I was often shoveling after running.

**Oh the weather outside was frightening! Often.**

I runfess . . .
I am definitely not minding that my runs are short and sweet right now. Or that they can be whatever I want — slow & steady, a little bit of speed work, run/walk. It’s all good.

I runfess . . .
I had one half that was supposed to have been June 2020, and not surprisingly that was canceled. I never signed up for the 2021 race, but it was no big surprise when I heard from Laurie @ MeditationsinMotion that that, too, was canceled; we were hoping to meet up at the race in 2020! I wasn’t planning on running it this year either. If I’m very lucky, by that point I’ll be vaccinated but who knows?

I runfess . . .
I am glad that my Achilles finally seems to be healed. Some days it seems a little tight when I first get up, but I do some SMR (self myofascial release) and it seems fine the rest of the day — whether I’m running or not. Returning to running hasn’t seemed to bother it. Now the hamstring that’s forever cranky . . . still cranky. That’s been on and off a long time, much longer than my Achilles; it’s one of those aches that isn’t bad but just won’t seem to go away. I’ve been working on that, too, though and it does seem better.

I runfess . . .
When I was sick in January and not very hungry, I went through an entire loaf of Trader Joe’s sourdough bread in about a week. By myself. I don’t usually eat a lot of bread. Although I runfess that sourdough loaf I baked has been disappearing pretty quickly too, although after 2 weeks and both of us eating it there’s still a little left.

I runfess . . .
Some people are #runningallthemiles in the Pandemic. Me? I’m taking #allthecourses. Winter is definitely a good time to be learning new things! Because I am definitely looking forward to getting out in Spring and doing some short hikes again. Even though I know it’ll be muddy.

Are you running more or less than usual right now?

Are you old enough to know what TV show I’m referring to in the title of this blog?

What do you have to runfess from February? Come join us

I am also linking up with:

Typical February Week: 2/15 – 21 WRD

February 21, 2021February 22, 2021 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 42 Comments

Snow. Ice. Cold. Not nearly as much as forecast, though — in fact, much, much less (except the cold part). I was able to run outside twice. My heart goes out to my friends in Austin, even while I’m actually glad (for once!) that we live here and not there. I’ve been without power. I’ve been without water. Neither is fun. Throw into that burst pipes — yikes!

I am ready for some good news, I truly am!

bwrd

I’m joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and easing slowly back into running and strength training.

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (40 min), PB Legs (11 min), Dogwalk
Tuesday: Yoga (20 min), PB Balance + Core (10 min), 2.5 TM, 4.5 SB, Shoveling, Yoga (20 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), PB ST (10 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (20 min)
Thursday: Yoga (30 min), Easy 3 miles, Dogwalk
Friday: Yoga (30 min), PB Legs (10 min), A little touch up shoveling, Dogwalk
Saturday: Yoga (20 min), PB Arms (10 min), Dogwalk
Sunday: Yoga (20 min), 4 miles easy, Yoga (20 min)

Running Mileage: 9.5 (+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

**This is how it looked by the afternoon when the temps had risen above freezing and the ice was melting. Made the shoveling easier, but I stuck to the mill in the morning.**

Tuesday Intention: just a touch of speed + more time
I chose a 45 minute intervals run today. I’ve been using 45 minute runs, but just running for 30 minutes. I continue to slowly increase time and length of my runs, so this week I wanted to run for 35 minutes. Which I did.

**Another cool ice photo. Makes plastic mesh look like chain mail!**

I kept my “speed” relatively low, walked the last 10 minutes, and then cooled down with a 10 minute indoor bike ride. I’ve been doing 15 minute cycles, but it was getting really close to lunch and no one wants Mr. Judy hangry.

**No killer storms here but lots of days with just a few inches of snow & lots of cold means the snow stays. Until next week when we’re supposed to get more seasonal temps.**

Thursday Intention: opt outside + easy miles
No wind for the win again! Which is good because it was just barely above 22F. Definitely took it easy, but a good run overall. Except for when I turned around at the end of one street and almost literally ran into a woman running on the wrong side of the street — I had no idea she was there. Otherwise uneventful except for V02 Max nudging up a little and my last mile being a pretty normal pace.

Sunday Intention: add some more distance (again!)
Another cold in the low 20s run, but wind not too bad and bright sunshine! It still felt more difficult than Thursday’s run. No idea why. Back up to 4 miles. Woohoo! Although I did stop after mile 3 to make sure Mr. Judy had been out to walk Bandit — he just won’t walk if I’m at home and Mr. Judy takes him solo, but he usually will walk if I’m not at home. Looking for me, no doubt. I was worried I’d get home and then have to go back out to walk him — which I do a lot — but I just wasn’t feeling that today. He’s such a weird dog.

Rarely seen sunshine outside; but no way to get Vitamin D from that sunshine so gotta get light somehow

Favorites of the week
I want to thank everyone, again, who took time out of their love day to wish me a happy birthday last week; I am grateful to each and every one of you.

Mr. Judy actually put his thinking cap on and got me a great gift: a new light box for the mornings. I’ve had a small one for many years, but the rechargeable battery was slowly dying. The new one is much larger. I still get tired in Winter, but I do think it helps! I also asked for something like a water pick — food is always getting stuck in my teeth — and he got me that, too. It took some getting used to but my teeth feel so good after using it.

He also chipped in with his family, and there are some new Yoga props on their way, too.

Of course birthdays aren’t about what you receive, but it’s always nice to know that people are thinking about you.

Favorite recent birthday gift?

How’s your motivation holding up as Winter grinds on?

Don’t forget to enter my giveaway for a free virtual Yoga class here!

GWY Yin Yoga Hamilton

ICYMI: It’s a Hamilton Yin Yoga practice! I had so much fun working on this. You’ll deeply stretch your whole body. I will give you a quote from the play for each Asana (posture). I can’t play music from the soundtrack due to copyright, but maybe you can entertain yourself with it in your mind as we practice together. You’ll find the video here. If you’re looking for some inspirational morning reading I’ve got some suggestions here.

I’m running a fun challenge in my private Facebook Group. I’ll be trying to help you get into the “routine” of practicing something calming each morning. I will be raffling off a free thirty minute private Yin Yoga class via Zoom. You can join here. You can only enter to win if you’re in the Facebook group, and you have until the end of the month to enter. No pressure, it’s supposed to be fun!

Coming up on Tuesday: I’m wrapping up February (just a few days early). Friday it’s time for some runfessions!

Running on sunshine: 4/20 – 26 WRD

April 26, 2020April 26, 2020 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 36 Comments

I’d like to say snow is in our tailview mirror, but not this week. At least there was no accumulation. But there was snow, rain, sleet, and hail oh my! In between all that there was also sunshine, and some days that were breezy instead of super windy. A little sunshine goes a long way!

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and sharing some sunny runs that have saved this runner’s mojo.

Last week I noted that my RHR (resting heart rate, taken first thing n the morning) was going up, up, up. If it suddenly jumps 10 degrees it’s a pretty sure sign that you’re getting sick. Mine wasn’t increasing that much, but there was a noticeably trend up and my runs definitely felt off. This week was better in both departments.

Spring is always a difficult time for me health-wise. Last year at about this time I’d spent a night in a hospital due to fainting & a really nasty stomach bug. So grateful that was last year, not this year. I haven’t been truly sick, but I have definitely struggled with feeling run down the last couple of months. Something some sun and warm days could cure — but alas, it’ll be a while before we see that.

**Not my best photo, but loved soaking up some Vit D (Bandit, too)**

Of course after I wrote the paragraph above, we finally had a Spring-like day, and I totally took advantage of it, eating lunch outside and then doing my recovery Yoga outside too. I slept like a log last night!

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (8 min), Dogwalk, PB Arms (15 min)
Tuesday: 4 miles easy, Dogwalk, Yoga (50 min)
Wednesday: SB (20 min), Yoga (5 min), Dogwalk
Thursday: Yoga (8 min), 4 miles easy, Dogwalk
Friday: SB (20 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (15 min)
Saturday: Yoga (8 min), 9 mile LSD, Dogwalk, Yoga (30 min)
Sunday: Yoga (7 min), Dogwalk, ST later

Mileage: 17 (+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

New leaves & flowers are always such a hopeful sign

Tuesday
Rain was in the forecast and so I “hustled” and actually got out there around 9. I’d probably get out earlier, but it was cold and windy. The first 3 miles weren’t too bad, and I probably should have called it quits there. Unfortunately the wind wore me down that last mile, especially running into the headwind the last quarter mile.

I seem to have taken a few steps back. What is my body trying to tell me?

**It wasn’t warm, but it was sunny — we needed that!**

Thursday
The first nice day in what seems like forever. By nice I mean in the 40s, with a slight breeze, but sunny, LOL! This run was better than most of last week’s, but still felt hard. Which might be because I chose a hilly route, just to get myself out of the neighborhood! I enjoyed the sunshine, though.

**First rainbow & a heart, extra points!**

Saturday
Often they promise us nice weather but don’t deliver — today they certainly did! I realized maybe I’m simply pushing too hard on my long runs. Then again, I don’t usually look at pace at all. Anyway, I gave myself permission to walk when I felt like it and I felt like it a lot.

**Second rainbow — people are creative!**

The pace was still considerably better than last week’s long run, despite the extra mile; no doubt due to the more favorable weather.

**Lola & Bandit practicing proper social distancing (actually it was hard to get this photo!)**

Favorites of the week
If you follow me on Instagram here, you’ll know that we participated in a car parade to thank the staffers at our local Humane Society.

**The scarf sorta worked — this was after Tuesday’s run, so yup, a chilly but sunny day**

They are not allowing the many volunteers to go in (although apparently they’re going to start letting some come in), so those guys are working overtime to keep the animals safe — while adoptions seem to be booming.

**I will totally be getting this again!**

This Poke Bowl. Just had to share!

**Bandit wanted some too (but didn’t get anything; he got some dog treats eventually)**

I’ve noticed cars zipping around, ignoring stop signs and even red lights. On one run this week, though, I had a car stop at a green light and wave me over so I could cross the street. Seriously, how cool was that?

How are you thanking essential workers?

Still looking for rainbows?

What virtual races did you run this week? Just not my thing

Coming up on Tuesday: April’s not quite over, but I’m wrapping up my month & putting a grade on it. Of course I’ll be joining y’all (virtually) for some tea next weekend.

ICYMI: It’s a crave busting meditation. I know there’s been some issues with volume on my videos (not completely sure why), but I worked on this and hopefully it’ll be much better. You can view the meditation here. And Yes, you can always join the 21 Days of Yoga Challenge at any time here.

Be the first to know when I release new videos: sign up for my newsletter here to find out when I add new videos, and you’ll receive a free Self Love Affirmation PDF and a bonus audio-only version of this self love meditation.

Let’s Return to Spring; Please?: 4/13 – 19 WRD

April 19, 2020April 19, 2020 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 41 Comments

More snow, but nothing really to write home about. Wind and cold though! Definitely having some shorts/bathing suit photo envy. I’d settle for putting away my Winter clothes, I stare at my closet and I just don’t even want to put them on again!

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner, and apologizing for the rant. We all have our breaking point! Still running, but coming to grips with the idea that the half in June is probably a no-go. Trying to decide if I want to drop the mileage on my long runs . . .

Workouts update

Monday: Rainy rest day
Tuesday: 4 miles easy, Dogwalk
Wednesday: Dogwalk, PB Cardio + Balance + Weights (25 min)
Thursday: 4 miles easy, Yoga (10 min)
Friday: SB (20 min), Dogwalk, Yoga (15 min)
Saturday: Yoga (8 min), PB Walking + Weights (30 min), Dogwalk
Sunday: 8 miles LSD, Yoga maybe later

Mileage: 16 (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

Spring is slowly arriving

Tuesday
The mornings are still chilly, and that’s generally when I run. Too bad it’s nicer in the afternoon! It was somewhat cloudy & windy, but still, not bad. I actually almost had slow negative splits. I guess I ran out of steam the last mile.

**Wish this was the only snow we got this week — it wasn’t! But it melts quickly.**

Thursday
Yup, woke up to a dusting of the white stuff, which was gone by the time I ran. Very cold and windy, but sunny — not a bad run. Paces are *slowly* getting better (see what I did there?). Eventually it’s supposed to feel easier to run breathing through your nose — I am most definitely not there yet, but I have some ideas why that may be.

**Mr. Judy found this garden art. I didn’t remember we had it, or where we used it in TX!**

Sunday
This run sucked and was very frustrating on many levels. I don’t have my Garmin to show me pace, normally, but it kept going through data screens & so I kept seeing it. It wasn’t about the pace, though, it was about many things.

By the second half of my run I just ignored my Garmin completely. I won’t say that that made this a good run, but it did get me back in touch with my body. I was surprised my pace actually picked up on a long uphill despite a lot of walking. No injuries, no pain, finally nice weather (by that I mean sunny, mid 50s, and still windy, LOL!) — so there’s my positives.

**Thanks Deborah & Coco for setting this up!**

Favorites of the week
Another blogger Zoom meetup. So nice to put faces & voices to blogs. If you want to join the next one (which we didn’t discuss), but I’m assuming there’ll be a next one, just let Deborah @ Confessionsofanothermotherrunner know.

Other than that, same old, same old — which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Except the weather. The weather got me down this week, but today I believe we made the turn away from Winter and back towards Spring — I hope! I think tonight we’re going to do Moroccan for dinner (delivery). We continue our virtual world culinary tour.

How are you overcoming bad weather, if you have it?

How are you dealing with those cancelled races?

What is motivating you off the couch and out the door?

Coming up on Tuesday: have you been hitting the snack drawer hard lately? I think a lot of us are, for a variety of reasons! I’ll give you some tools to cope with those cravings.

**You can start the challenge any time!**

ICYMI: It’s a biggie this week. I released a 21 Days of Yoga Challenge. Short videos every day for 21 days. A collaboration between myself and four other Yoga teachers, so you know I packed my portion with a lot of runner Yoga. You can sign up here.

Still We Run: 12/16-22 WRD

December 22, 2019December 22, 2019 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 39 Comments

Running went quite well this week. Paces are dropping a tad while HR is steady, all while pretty much running by feel. I got in a little more strength training, too. Snow flew, frigidly cold air moved in.

Life, however, well, not so great. We have been pushing through getting my Dad into a nursing home (which is surprisingly difficult), because even with a live in aide, my 91 year old Mom, just can’t handle him. We’ll make the transition next week.

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner and yup, still maintaining my base — in what feels like the frozen tundra.

briots

And linking up with Jenn @ Runswithpugs, Brandi @ Funnerrunner, Anna Louise @ Graciouswarriorprincess, Briana @ Matsmilesmedals, Meghan @ Meghanonthemove, and Elizabeth @ Trainwithbainfor RIOTS(running is our therapy)

Workouts update

Monday: 3 miles with Hill Repeats, Dogwalk, Yoga AM/PM (60 min), PB Abs (10 min)
Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), PB Cardio + Weights (40 min)
Wednesday: Yoga AM/PM (60 min), 3 miles TM Progressive, Dogwalk
Thursday: Yoga (40 min), TM Soul Stroll (33 min)
Friday: 7 mile LSD, Yoga (30 min)
Saturday: Yoga (45 min), Filmed Yoga Video (50 min), Very short Dogwalk (Brrrr!)
Sunday: Yoga (30 min), Studio Yoga (60 min), Dogwalk, PB Weights

Mileage: 13 (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

A little holiday cheer on the road before the snow

Monday
Snow in the forecast for the next day, so I got out for more hill repeats while the hill was still runnable.

Wednesday
Snow was restocked, so to the mill it was. We didn’t get much this time, but it takes a while for the roads to really be runnable.

Friday
Our temps plummeted this week, and it was a very, very cold day. Sunny, at least. Some wind, but not too bad. I went out later in the day, when it was at least in the teens (although still felt like single digits). The run was strong, but it was also a tough one.

Favorites of the week
This week I tried Oat Milk. I haven’t drunk cow’s milk in forever (although I still occasionally eat cheese and more often yogurt); I use nut milks mostly. I tried the Oat Milk first in a Matcha Latte and I was underwhelmed. Much prefer my Almond Milk.

The next day I tried the Oat Milk in oatmeal I cooked in my mini crockpot overnight. Some synchronicity there, right? I really liked it that way; the oatmeal came out really creamy!

A very Happy Holidays to all who celebrate next week. To those that struggle this time of year, I’m sending you a virtual hug. Hang in there. It will get better.

Do you drink Cow’s Milk or alternative milks?

Do you really feel that tough runs make you a stronger runner?

Are you hoping for anything special this holiday season?

Thawing out: 12/9-15 WRD

December 15, 2019 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 38 Comments

I thought we’d be going to my parents today, but we’re going to try for tomorrow since my nephew (who lives in India — yes, the country) will be visiting. So I didn’t need to get that long run in on Friday, but then I didn’t have to deal with the crazy wind today.

I considered just showing up & doing a few miles with my friends, which would have been the first time I’ve run 4 x week in a long time, but I wasn’t feeling it and there was a lot to do today. Going to my parents sucks up an entire day and requires some prep the day before (get stuff ready for the dogs, lay out clothes to run in and clothes to actually wear the rest of the day — among other stuff).

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner and yup, still maintaining my base.

briots

Workouts update

Monday: 3 miles easy, Dogwalk, Yoga (30 min)
Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), Filmed Yoga Video (25 min), PB Cardio + Weights (45 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (30 min), 3 miles easy (with 6 x 20ish hill repeats), Studio Yin Yoga (60 min)
Thursday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, PB Cardio + Weights (30 min)
Friday: 7 mile LSD, Yoga (30 min)
Saturday: Yoga (40 min), PB ST (35 min), TM Soul Stroll (30 min)
Sunday: Dogwalk, Yoga (40 min)

Mileage: 13 (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

Sometimes the hardest part is getting out of your own driveway

Monday
I expected to wake up to rain and be on the treadmill — only I didn’t (wake up to rain, that is). I had what looked like a few hours rain free (although the radar often lies). I quickly ate some breakfast, got dressed, foam rolled, warmed up a little and got myself out there. I still wore screw shoes, there are still icy bits out there — not much, but it doesn’t take much. I did hit one slushy patch I slipped on slightly, but all in all a decent run.

**Much of the snow gone after a day of rain**

Wednesday
A very busy day, so I managed to get out the door fairly early (not quite as early as Monday). We’ve had a thaw the last few days, so a lot of the snow has melted. I took advantage of the clearing to do some hill repeats — definitely don’t want to do those on iffy roads!

**Again, remember all the snow & ice here last week? Same parking lot!**

Friday
The day was gray and cold, but not too bad, and only a little bit of icy patches here and there. I was able to get most of my run done in the park, and it was a really strong run, with most miles within seconds of each other (except that rogue mile 2). No idea why, but it made me happy.

Favorites of the week
This time I tried an edamame + mung bean pasta. Mr. Judy didn’t even comment on it — he’s usually rightly suspicious when I serve pasta. This pasta has 24 gm of protein in a serving! It goes in the pot a greenish color, but most of that fades during cooking. I cooked it a bit longer than the box suggested, which seemed to work.

I am working on starting that Youtube channel. In fact, I hope to have it done in time for Tuesday’s post! Let’s just say there’s been a lot of hair pulling going on because this girl knows nothing about editing video. Even after trying to edit a few.

Do you ever try alternative pasta? Have a favorite one?

Any exciting races lately?

Is your holiday shopping done or are you just getting started?

Wrapping up Racing: 12/2-8 WRD

December 9, 2019 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 32 Comments

Last night (yup, night) was probably my last race for 2019. There was a 5k I considered for next weekend, but the weather right now doesn’t look great — of course that can always change. This week was still a bit light in strength training, but I suppose I made up for that with all the shoveling!

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner and again just maintaining my base.

briots

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (40 min), TM Soul Stroll, Lots of shoveling
Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), Shoveling, 3 TM progressive miles, Yin Yoga (30 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk
Thursday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk, PB Cardio + Weights (30 min)
Friday: Yoga (40 min), 7 mile LSD
Saturday: Yoga (40 min), Last Run 5k
Sunday: Yoga (40 min), Vin , Practiced Yoga with a friend (60 min)

Mileage: 13 (+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

**Almost 2 feet of snow, and a bit more on & off later in the week**

Tuesday
After a weekend of snow, the roads weren’t really that bad; we know how to handle it up here! I still stayed on my treadmill, from an abundance of caution. It only takes a little ice to take a runner down. I managed to procrastinate getting started even though I wasn’t going outside!

**The hardest part of this run was not slipping on the way out of the parking lot**

Friday
I still managed to procrastinate a little (well, read blogs & comment on blogs, feed the dogs, etc), which meant that I got out when I planned to get out, rather than a little early (more snow on the way). The predicted snow showed up right on time, basically during my last mile.

There is something extremely peaceful about running in falling snow — before it starts sticking to the roads, and I managed to time this perfectly in that respect. The hardest part about this run was getting into and out of the parking lot (pictured above), but I was grateful that at least the parking lot had been cleared.

**The lights & the fireworks keep us coming to this race despite cold & snow**

Saturday
Last Run is always a fun time, and I posted a video of the fireworks over on IG. First time posting other than ambassador stuff in a long while! Always a fun race, which I’ll recap Tuesday.

Three years ago I’d invited some friends over to my house post race, and despite the snow storm, most of them came. Apparently it’s become a tradition, although other people in our group have opened their homes since the first one at my house. A good time was had by all.

Favorites of the week
I picked up some chickpea granola at Whole Foods. I’d definitely recommend it. As much as I love oatmeal, I find I just have to be careful about how much I consume to keep my weight in check. Although with the party Saturday night, there was a bit more indulging this week anyway.

I finally upgraded from a free WordPress blog to a paid one, so you don’t have to type quite as much any more (you should be able to reach me at Chocolaterunsjudy.com now). I was a little apprehensive, but I was already at 99.5% of my storage on the free account. The transition appears to have gone smoothly.

I slept in just a tad (like, 6am instead of 4:30 or 5), did my yoga, did some errands, and then practiced yoga with a friend. So I’m late to the link up party tonight!

Any more races for you this year?

Interesting snack finds?

How many holiday parties do you have?

It’s bad when they name the storm: 11/25-12/1 WRD

December 1, 2019 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 26 Comments

Thanksgiving was spent with my parents, my sister and her kids, plus one of the couples my parents eat with on a regular basis. It wasn’t horrible and it wasn’t great, and I have a strong feeling it might be my Dad’s last Thanksgiving, but only time will tell. Not a whole lot of activity this week, but there’s going to be a lot of shoveling (potentially) the next couple of days.

bwrd

Joining Kim @ Kimrunsonthefly and Deborah @ Confessionsofamotherrunner and again just maintaining my base.

briots

Workouts update

Monday: Yoga (40 min), 3 miles easy
Tuesday: Yoga (40 min), Cardio + Weights (45 min), Dogwalk, Yin Yoga (45 min)
Wednesday: Yoga (40 min), Dogwalk
Thursday: Yoga (30 min), 3 mile progressive TM
Friday: Yoga (40 min), Chilly Dogwalk
Saturday: Yoga (40 min), 6 miles LSD
Sunday: Yoga (40 min), Vin + Yin Studio (60 min), Dogwalk

Mileage: 12 (-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

This path will be buried in snow soon, so took advantage of it while it’s clear

Monday
I arranged my run around errands again. I also had trouble making up my mind when I actually wanted to run, and while today was relatively warm, it was also gray. Guess I better suck it up because that describes a lot of our winter! 3 easy miles; nothing terribly remarkable, but I guess I did okay because it nudged my VO2 up a point. No cats. 🙂

Thursday
We had to leave by 9am so the treadmill it was for 3 progressive miles. Thanksgiving was . . . ok. No big drama (not til much later that night, or actually early Friday morning, long after we’d left).

**Cold, but thankfully little wind & sun for the win**

Saturday
A very chilly 6 miles with friends. Not too much wind and sunshine, though, so it really wasn’t bad, and I actually had company the whole six miles. Been a long time since I actually ran with someone!

**Horrible Bald Eagle specs — but he was a beauty! Or she?**

Favorites of the week
I spotted this Bald Eagle during one of our walk breaks. Although we do have eagles in the area, and I’ve actually seen them on the path in a different town once (also on a run with friends), I had never seen one on this particular path (which is the end of Mowhawk Hudson Half/Marathon — you never know what you might see!).

Ford vs Ferrari. I have zero interest in cars (as you might be able to tell from my 19 year old Honda Civic) or car racing, but this was a terrific movie and I highly recommend it.

Do you like cars and/or car racing?

Favorite Thanksgiving memory?

Any other new movies you’d recommend?