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?

Bye bye racing; maybe?: 11/12- 18 Weekly Wrap

November 19, 2018 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 35 Comments

It seemed like all the races were canceled this weekend. At least the ones I was interested in, anyway. Some of the Sole Sisters got together to run, but frankly, I need all the time I can get before Thanksgiving so it’s probably just as well those races were canceled. In case you missed it, I’d already written on how I was giving up on one racing goal for this week (read about it here).

I have a feeling that I’ll be ditching the Turkey Trot this year, too. It’s going to be frigid! The one I do has nowhere to wait inside.

I’m joining up with the Weekly Wrap from Holly @ Hohoruns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home to share how I stay active when the snow comes . . . even if it’s too early.

WWSki-Orange

Workouts update

Monday: Dogwalk x 2, ~~Triggerpoint Grid Core Work (20 minutes)~~ — usually if I write it, I do it, but not this time
Tuesday: Yoga ( half salutes, pigeons, hamstrings, restorative — 30 minutes), 4ish chilly miles easy
Wednesday: Pilates Legs & Abs (20 minutes), Dogwalk, Triggerpoint Grid Core Work (5 minutes), YFR Hamstrings
Thursday: YFPR Align & Alleviate (30 minutes), Dogwalk
Friday: 7 treadmill miles (split into an AM & PM runs of 3.5 miles each)
Saturday: Dogwalk, Pilates Legs, Arms & Stretch
Sunday: 5 miles easy, Dogwalk

Mileage: 16 (-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 Updates

**Despite the Sunday snow & some snow in the morning, it was still Fallish on Tuesday**

Tuesday
Can I reboot this day? First I get stuck in a godawful traffic jam while taking Lola to the vet, literally having us stuck on a bridge, and then half an hour late. We were maybe 2 miles away from the vet when this happened (yes, I called them to let them know I might be late, understatement of the year). At least we missed the traffic jams the snow created the next day . . .

Then I decided to run as naked as I get — just recorded the whole run with no splits & tried as much as possible not to watch it. Suddenly at almost the end of the run it looked like my Garmin stopped the run without me telling it to . . . and then it came up with the run interval screen — and froze there.

When I was finally able to unfreeze it it said I’d done something like 7 miles. Yeah, no. I do know my pace was pretty slow, because I think right before that happened I’d paused it to take a picture, and it shows average pace when you pause.

Which is why I rarely run without knowing my pace, but maybe that’s what my body needed. Really, my body probably needed another rest day and apparently the universe was trying to tell me that too. The run wasn’t horrible, just slow, and quite frankly I accomplished very little today.

Friday
Friday it snowed most of the day. I wanted a long run but it would have to be on the treadmill. I ran 3.5 miles in the morning and another 3.5 miles in the afternoon.

**By Friday it was definitely Winter, and although I’d pulled up the plants on one planted, I just couldn’t pull up the strawberries since they weren’t yet dead. Guess I should have.**

Sunday
It took me a long time to motivate myself outside this morning, but I had a good run. Its been a long week of cleaning, food shopping, and prepping/baking/cooking stuff for Thanksgiving. It may have been a bit slow but this run felt good. This time I had Autolap on, but not the alerts for the my pace each mile. Which seemed to work well for running by feel — I really never know what my pace was.

Favorites of the week
Snow seemed to be the theme of the week. I’d like to say it’s too early, and while it is early, some of my memories on Facebook showed that we had snow this time of year four years ago. Although not quite so much.

I’ve looked up a bunch of games we can potentially play on Thanksgiving using Alexa. Trying to get Mr. Judy to try some of them out with me!

Other than that, it’s really all about cleaning, cooking, baking . . .

Final hours to enter my giveaway of Couch to Active here! Read the review here.

Let’s get the conversation started:

How do you motivate yourself to stay active when the weather ain’t great?

Any fun Thanksgiving traditions to share?

What’s your role in the Thanksgiving celebrations?

Throwing out the Android: 1/15- 21 Weekly Wrap

January 21, 2018January 21, 2018 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 27 Comments

Nothing super eventful about this week. Three of my four runs were actually outside — despite getting dumped on with snow earlier in the week. I ran once with Darlene, who had MLK Day off, which hasn’t happened in a while. And met up with the remnants of the Wineglass girls for a group run for the first time this year. Feeling better so life is good.

I’m joining up with the Weekly Wrap from Holly @ Hohoruns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home to share my activity this week.

WeeklyWrapNew

Workouts update

Monday: 4 miles easy with Darlene (actually almost my easy pace for a change)
Tuesday: Ballet Beautiful
Wednesday: 3 treadmill miles (cause MN decided to dump 6+ inches of snow on us, not the forecast 1-4 — then some shoveling of said snow).
Thursday: Still trying to get ice off the driveway, otherwise nothing . . . no reason other than a busy day
Friday: JY 5 Minute Reset Hamstrings, calves & feet, 3 miles easy, Ballet Beautiful
Saturday: 6 mile LSD
Sunday: Dogwalk. First one in a week! Thank you January thaw.

Mileage: 16 (+2)

JY = Jasyoga
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 mone

y if you buy through these links

Running updates

Monday

It’s been a long time since I ran with Darlene @ Myfirst5k, but since others were running in the morning and I couldn’t and she wanted to sleep in, we met up for an “easy” run for me, a recovery run for her in the afternoon. Although still not warm, there was bright sunshine and little wind so it felt fine. And I recovered with some hot chocolate, one of my favorite ways to recover.

Wednesday

I thought I would have some major DOMs from the Ballet Beautiful DVD yesterday. Maybe it’s waiting for me. Maybe the 100 fire hydrants from the Feel Great in 8 challenge will knock them out. Anyway, I knocked out 3 easy miles on the treadmill while the outside was being turned into a Norman Rockwell photo.

Friday

The temps are slowly rising (although there is still ice on the driveway despite hacking at it almost daily — should be gone soon with forecast highs in the 40s this weekend). It wasn’t in the 40s when I ran this morning, although it was in the 20s so not too bad. I wore my trail shoes just in case of icy patches, but everything seemed fine (or the trail shoes did their job). And apparently totally forgot to take a photo.

Saturday

Met up with the (smaller) group, and started early as I was the only slower run/walker there. Did one loop one way, the other loop the other way — I find that makes it much easier mentally. Which is not to say it makes it easy.

Except this is what it looks like 90% of the run

The last couple of runs have been n the speedier side for me — probably because it’s warmer, and I’m not bundled up like the kid from “A Christmas Story, not to mention that I do seem to be feeling normal again, too.

Favorites of the week
Gotta give a shout out to the Skirtsports Double Take Reversible jacket — I snagged it on sale, and sadly it is no longer on sale, but if it goes on sale again, get it! I still haven’t tried it much below high 20s – mid 30sF, but so far I’ve been perfectly comfortable in it. There are two hand pockets and a large back pocket (all zippered), when you’re wearing it on the gray side, with the furry side in.

Yesterday I wore it to run in, then after we had our post race snack, I just turned it inside out so the sweaty/furry side was facing out — which kept me a little warmer than just having it against me. The pockets are only on the gray side, by the way.

For many years I have used an Android and carried an Ipod Touch, which I would kid was my external hard drive. We don’t get unlimited anything and we don’t usually get expensive phones.

It was time for a new Ipod — I’d had this one for 5+ years, I think. They don’t last forever. When I told Mr. Judy I was thinking of getting a new one (refurbished), he asked how much it cost. Turns out it was roughly $100 less than getting an older iphone, and our Tracfone service now allows you to use an iphone with the service. And yes, it was a pain carrying two devices for years — mostly because the Ipod took much better photos.

So as an early birthday present, I got an iphone 6. Surprisingly the whole porting stuff over and getting activated went totally smoothly. What does’t seem to be going so smoothly? The whole battery life thing. My Android had much better battery life, but in fairness to it, I had far fewer apps on it (because you couldn’t really fit many on it, hence the Ipod).

So any battery conserving tricks and tips would be highly appreciated. Plus any case suggestions. I ordered a screen protector and slapped that baby on right away (remember my cracked screen before a trip last year, so not fun). But I wanted to be a bit choosier about the case, although I don’t want to wait too long and let it get too scratched up.

I’m wrapping it up with a few favorite blogs from this week:

This week I am also linking up with the Sunday Fitness & Food Linkup brought to you by Ilka @ Ilka’s Blog and Angela @ Marathons & Motivation.

Let’s get the conversation started:

Are things thawing (even if only temporarily) in your neck of the woods?

What’s your best Apple battery conserving trick?

Android or Apple and are you happy with it?

Devoloping Character: 1/30-2/5 Weekly Wrap

February 12, 2017February 12, 2017 ~ Chocolaterunsjudy ~ 43 Comments

bchallenges

So last week I wrote about how we’re not buried in many inches of snow. All you people who kept bemoaning our lack of snow — can I please have it all directed at you? Cause it changed for us big time this week, with no end in sight. It’s February, though, and it’s pretty typical for our February.

I’m joining up with the Weekly Wrap from Holly @ Hohoruns and Tricia @ Misssipppiddlin and sharing my activities for the week. Check out how your fellow bloggers are getting active and don’t forget to share how you’re getting active, too!

Workouts update

Monday: DM Chest, Back & Arms, Dogwalk,
Tuesday: YTU Hips, Feet & Ankles, 5 easy/icy miles, Pahla B Abs
Wednesday: YFPR Hips, Pahla B ST, 4 easy miles, YFR Foundation
Thursday: Pahla B Standing Abs, YTU Hips & Foot & Ankles
Friday: DM Flow, 5 TM miles (middle 3 steady state — which just means faster than usual for me)
Saturday: Pilates Perfect Body Belly & Stretch
Sunday: YTU Hips, Feet & Ankles, Stress relief; 10 Mile LSD

Mileage: 24 (+3.25)

TIU = Tone it Up
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 updates

I spent a lot of time in those Yaktrax this week

Tuesday

Mother Nature is clearly confused. The forecast was for snow turning to wintry mix turning to rain — what I call Dresden weather, because that’s exactly what happened the one day I spent in Dresden.

I was hoping to outrun the snow; spoiler alert: epic fail. I fed myself, fed all the animals, quickly changed into running clothes, did my warmup, got Bandit suited up . . . and it was snowing. Big, heavy flakes. Crap.

So I pulled/dragged Bandit through less than half a mile and realized it wasn’t happening for him. Turned around, dropped him off, put on my Yaktrax, headed back out. Now it’s freezing rain. Double crap. What to do? Well, I wasn’t falling so I decided to soldier on.

It stopped after a while. Then it started up again, even harder. Then it stopped. Then the blizzard started. Seriously, MN?

I ran through it all, super cautiously (and super slow) and made it through 5 miles without falling or hurting myself.

Wednesday

So envious of the 50s, 60s, 70s. It was a warm day — which means it was 42 feels like 35 when I ran in the afternoon. I really wasn’t even planning to run, but a snowstorm was supposed to be coming (spoiler: yup, it hit), so I snuck in my easy 4 miles.

I threw in a fartlek at my favorite fartlek place (above), even though it wasn’t on the plan. Which just might explain why mile 3 was a wee bit fast. That’s okay, I dialed back down the last mile — and the previous day’s run was more than slow enough.

bsun21017 — Only sunny when it’s too nasty to run outside, it seems!

Friday

Bitterly cold (so of course the sun was out). Windy. Snowy/icy streets (and probably running paths). Appointments/errands. And so it was back to the treadmill for a steady state run — basically, these 5 miles were just about 30 second slower than last week’s tempo run when all was said and done.

Maybe it felt a little easier?

Sunday

I built a lot of character today! The last winter series today was 10 miles, which was perfect for my training plan from Rachel @ Runningonhappy. Only the snow was supposed to start at 10 am — same time as the runs.

I chose to get up early , despite the 3 hours in the car yesterday (trying to get my parents’ home ready to sell), and hopefully outrun the snow. Spoiler alert: it began to snow lightly just 2.5 miles in.

And the path wasn’t clear either — they’d obviously cleared it after our big storm earlier in the week, but we’d had more snow and a lot of wind since then. Packed down snow with a lot of ice underneath — but with my trusty Yaktrax (even with one coil broken –Amazon affiliate link) it was fine (if very slow). Almost negative splits, though.

I wasn’t the only runner there, and I wasn’t the only one there who’d decided to ditch the winter series (which got canceled, btw) and run early to avoid the worst of the snow.

The good news is it wasn’t super cold and it wasn’t windy, so there’s that. And I finished with no falls.

Challenges are meant to be met and overcome. — Liu Xiang

Favorites of the week
It was a long and challenging week, y’all, to be sure. Probably just the first of many. Almost at the peak of my half training, but also needing to go to work on my parents’ house every week.

Anyhoo, next week is my birthday and I enter a new age group. Not that that means much to me — trust me, I’d have to be the only person in my age group to win an award.

But I did get myself a little early birthday present which I used today after my long run — a foot spa (amazon affiliate link)– it was heavenly. I’ve been thinking about getting one for years, and I’m so glad I finally did! Disclaimer: the links in this post are affiliate links; if you buy the product by using my link, I make a small amount of money — thanks! The opinions are my own.

And that’s a wrap

This week I am also linking up with the Sunday Fitness & Food Linkup brought to you by Ilka @ Ilka’s Blog and Angela @ Marathons & Motivation.

Let’s get the conversation started:

Valentine lover or hater?

Is Mother Nature challenging you lately?

How are you overcoming your challenges?