Sunday, January 14, 2018

Cold as Ice

"You know that you are...cold, cold, as, as ice...." ~ Foreigner

I know it's a bad song but the lyrics to Cold As Ice have been running through my head all weekend. We had a short break from the cold this week, but we traded that bitter cold and sunshine for rainy, windy, and gloomy. I'm not saying I like the cold, but I do enjoy seeing the sunshine. When you live in the Midwest, warm weather in January always comes with a price. Still, it was nice to shed a few layers, even if it meant getting wet.

The frosty conditions returned just in time for me to wrap up the Lululemon/Strava 80/40 challenge. I swear, the act of layering up to run takes longer than the actual run itself. I'm not just running for the prize--I do need to log miles for my upcoming half and the challenge gave me some incentive to do just that. But can we please see some moderation in temperatures? Please?



I logged about 26.1 miles this week, which put me over the 80 km needed for the challenge. I ran in a variety of conditions. Wednesday's run was relatively warm--it was in the upper 30s, but the bike path was covered with black ice. Thankfully, I stayed upright and after a few near wipeouts, I took my run to the streets.



On Thursday, it was windy and rainy, with temps right about 50. I ran at the retention pond, and with the wind blowing the rain sideways across the frozen surface, I was chilled to the bone. After 3 laps of that, a long, hot shower and a cup of coffee helped me thaw.


Saturday and Sunday, we were back in the deep freeze and it was all I could do to get my miles in. On the plus side, the snow was completely gone and I had clear conditions underfoot. Sunday's 10 miler was really tough, mentally. It is just so hard to run far in such bitterly cold temperatures. I had some motivation though--I needed my miles to complete that Lululemon/Strava 80 km challenge. The things I'll do for free clothing...anyways, I ended up with 85 km when all was said and done. But I am so ready for it to warm up a bit--really, seasonal temperatures (we should be around 30 this time of year) would be nice.


By contrast, CrossFit was much more fun. On Monday, Sammy Jo had a conditioning circuit for me. That core work she had me do on the GHD definitely paid off on Wednesday when I struggled to stay upright on the icy bike path. I actually felt my abs engage as I worked to maintain my balance. Ok, then!


On Thursday, Steph was back by my side at CrossFit and we did a really tough strength session, which included these box step ups--with the 20# dumbbells, it was deceptively hard!


The weatherman says our temperatures are supposed to moderate as the week goes on. I sure hope so! Besides trying to prepare for my upcoming race, I've had a little flare of RA symptoms as well as a little bit of anxiety. I'm hoping that both of those things are related and that once my RA symptoms calm down, the anxiety will go away too. This is always a tough time of year for me, RA or not. I don't like winter very much. One of the reasons I like to run outdoors all year around is to keep the winter blues away. I truly believe that the natural light is the best medicine for me. Even if it means running in the bitter cold. But it's always good to keep a sense of humor about it...

The WTF weather app tells it like it is. Suck it up, man, and run. I had to laugh when I saw this!
How was your week? Is it cold by you? Do you get the winter blues? Did you do the Lululemon/Strava challenge, and if so, how far did you run? Did you know Holly ran a half marathon today? Be sure to go and congratulate her on winning 3rd overall Grand Masters!

It's the Weekly Wrap! This linkup, hosted by Holly and me, is an opportunity for fitness bloggers to share their training with other fitness bloggers! This week, we challenge everyone to pick a blog they don't normally read and leave a comment. Maybe check in on Tuesday or Wednesday and see who's linked up since. You never know...


102 comments :

  1. The WTF app is by far my favorite app on my phone. It's good for a laugh every single day lol

    I also participated in the 40/40 challenge but unfortunately I won't be able to hit the 80k mark. All of my runs were on the treadmill during the first week of the challenge so they don't count :( But that was the week where the weather was absolutely insane before the cold weather, snow and ice so I didn't really have a choice, lol. Al least I hit the 40k mark!

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    1. I think that people who live in warmer climes have an advantage with this challenge. Last year, I was running in very icy conditions. It was kind of dangerous. Oh well, it got me outside, right?

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  2. I'm trying to not let the winter blues get to me but I'm struggling this year. It's just been SO COLD! Much colder than normal. I'm even thinking I should move to a warmer climate. LOL

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  3. What a funny weather app! I was also super cold but the spring weather on Thursday felt glorious! I also did the 40/80 challenge. Do we win free clothes??? That's awesome!

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  4. That is a lot of miles in this cold! Well, cold right now. Crazy weather. I'm trying not to complain much, because really, winter is just getting started (and yes, I definitely struggle with SADD a lot) -- but we'll talk again around March.

    That bitter cold, though, I was definitely getting some cabin fever! Good things my dogs are old -- they're pretty good couch potatoes when it's cold.

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    1. I won't lie. It was tough! If it wasn't for the challenge, I don't know that I would have gone that far.

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  5. What a great week of running you had! As you know, I completed the 80K challenge the other day. With wind and rain predicted all day on Thursday, I actually went on two separate runs on Wednesday! Then on Thursday I was watching the radar and saw a 1-hour pocket of no rain here, and got my butt outside and finished with 86K. I just wanted to be DONE before this weekend's repeat polar vortex. Kudos to you for getting out there. Did you see the person in the lead? 413K--that's over 256 miles! That is just insane! Lululemon should give her stock in the company as her prize!

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    1. I wonder about those leaders--do you think they are really running that much? I'm a little skeptical.

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    2. I agree. Maybe biking? Though I did check the leader's profile and she seems to be an ultra runner. Who knows. I'm just happy to have finished!

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  6. Tennessee got a short blip of warm weather too this week (though we're nowhere near as cold as you all). I took a long walk outside and perked up immediately. Then it tried to snow this weekend... I hate winter. Hope this week's weather cooperates with you!

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    1. I think it's going to improve, temperature wise. But not until we get some snow first!

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  7. Yes I'm tired of the cold. We had one warm day and it was my rest day. Today I ran a race with-8 wind chill temps. I must be getting used to it because it wasn't so bad.

    I was planning on the Strava challenge but then I don't use a device to track my runs unless they are races.

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  8. Now I can't get that song out of my head ;) I usually don't mind running in the cold but the frigid temps have just crushed my motivation. You did awesome with completing that challenge!

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  9. I am really impressed that you got in 85K! Congrats it's been tough going out there lately. I was worried I might not make the 40K but finished today too. I hope they are some great shorts this time! LOL

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    1. Congrats! Yes, I hate to be greedy but I'd like a different color.

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  10. It's not cold here in Hawaii - just incoming missile warnings. I had already finished my run but Les was on a bike ride with several military buddies - their phones were going crazy. Never a dull moment.

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  11. Congrats on getting out there and completing the 80/40 challenge! Black ice is no joke. Glad to hear that the conditions were much better for your weekend runs.

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  12. So much for our "mild winter". You are a champ for pushing through to nail the Lulu challenge.

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  13. Oh my gosh, that weather app is too funny. I should download that. But I am a wuss when it comes to running in the cold so I wouldn't listen to it anyway if it told me to just suck it up. Those box step ups look very challenging with those weights.

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  14. Great job getting your mileage in! It can be tough with unpredictable weather conditions - I find wind to be the worst!

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  15. Now I'm going to have that song stuck in my head! lol
    Great job with your workouts and getting the lulu challenge done! I didn't have the motivation to jump in but I can't wait to see what goodies everyone gets!

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  16. Brr! I ope Lulu gives you some cozy swag! I am enjoying my studio workouts but do think my body is missing the time outside -- but not on days like today when it's in the teens again.

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    1. I just hope we get a different color than black...but I guess beggars shouldn't be choosers, right?

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  17. ...you're willing to sacrifice our love.. You know better to put a song in my head! Nice job with the Strava challenge and running outside in the relentless ridiculous frigid conditions. I know you were happy to have Steph at your side at CrossFit this week. OMG -- Don't you love What The Forecast? Also, thanks for the Grand Poobah shoutout! LOL. (Flintstones reference)

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    1. You are the Grand Poobah! Did you get a hat? If not, you should have!

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  18. I need that WTF weather app especially when it gets HOT again down south. We have had some really cold weather here too. I did well at my race this morning but my HR was high because of my ragged breathing. I get the winter blues too and have been anxious. I hope you have a great week Wendy!

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    1. I had ragged breathing this morning too. It was ridiculously cold. How do we chase away these winter blues? Let me know if you figure it out. I need a solution!

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  19. I had a brief stint of FOMO when I saw the Strava challenge, thankfully it quickly passed. I really need my January off-season (and it was perfect timing with the crazy cold temps). Congrats to you!

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    1. I think the timing for the challenge is perfect--i needed something to kick me into gear. But I'm glad it's over--this weather took a toll on me.

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  20. YAY for completing the Strava challenge! I JUST signed up for Strava, but noticed that the challenge wants you to run outside and most of my runs latel have been indoors so I'm not sure it will accept them. I had WTF for a little bi t but forgot to redownload it when i reset my phone. I may need to!

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    1. Yeah, the unfortunate part of this challenge is that all the runs have to be trackable. Our weather really made it tough!

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  21. The WTForecast app is awesome, hilarious every time :)

    So jealous of a 50 degree day...I wish we had weather like that in Minnesota right now! Way too much treadmill running for me this week.

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    1. We are covered in snow now and then it's back to the deep freeze. Now that the challenge is over, I'll probably be doing some treadmill running...maybe...

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  22. Hoping the weatherman is right and things start looking up for you guys! I can only imagine the motivation it takes to get out there when it's that cold. But so glad you managed! Thanks for the challenge to read a blog we don't usually read - will definitely do that now. Best of luck this week. Shathiso from the www.thegaboronerunner.com

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    1. Now we've got snow, so I'm grateful the challenge is done! It definitely helped me get moving but I'm ready to cut back again.

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  23. So over the cold! We get a couple nice days in the 30s and then wham below zero again or real close to it. Great week with your running and getting out in the cold and getting your miles in for the challenge. Running in the 20s and 30s can be nice when it isn't windy and cloudy like it has been. I want some sunshine!

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    1. I don't mind the 20s and 30s, but this single digit/subzero stuff is ridiculous! The only good thing about it is that we had a lot of sun, which actually helps make it tolerable.

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  24. It was a crazy week of weather here too! It got pretty cold again right when I left for Florida, so Im hoping its a little better when I get back. Nice job completing the challenge! I agree there is something nice about getting the miles done outside, even when its cold.

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  25. Congrats on completing your challenge - you made it look so easy considering the frigid weather you had to deal with! I used to love doing them for the motivation too. Our temps have warmed back up to the 60s and are expected to be back above 70 by tomorrow! Going to soak it up as much as I can ;)

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  26. Congrats on finishing the challenge, especially in the frigid temps! It's been a bit warmer here, but then it got cold again. 29 degrees this morning and not out of the 40s today, which is pretty chilly for Charleston.

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    1. I'm hoping we all get back to normal this week! I think better temps are coming.

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  27. Obviously not cold here! With about 80 in the afternoon our weather people tell of the shocking cooldown: it’s going to be in the mid- 60s next week!!!

    Which is good, because I don’t think I’d be out there in rain or with black ice. I did complete my Strava Challenge though. This was my first time. You get a t shirt? Cool!

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    1. Congrats on finishing the challenge. Last year we got shorts and a shirt. I don't know what the prize will be this year. Should be interesting.

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  28. I LOVE that screenshot of "no one gives a crap how cold you think you are!" LOL!!! That's why I love skiing in this weather because skiers are such badasses and they take all of this in stride where I'm bitching and moaning about the sub zero temps! I love that you run outside no matter what and yes, sun in January comes at a price in the Northeast too :-) Stay warm or try to...and just keep running!

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    1. I never minded skiing in the bitter cold--but there's something about running in those temps--it seems so much tougher! Anyways, I'm glad that's over with for this year! Have fun skiing!

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  29. I can't imagine running in 7 deg weather! It was in the high 70s in San Diego this past weekend. I've always admired your strength and determination :)

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  30. I signed up for the 40/80 challenge but never got to do it. Off running until further notice from physio....dang injuries!
    Great week! It was extremely warm here the other day - like summer temps but we are now back to super cold winter!

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  31. I keep seeing this WTF app I have got to go get it! It's so dang spot on!

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  32. I don't have winter blues, but I am struggling with my runs right now. It seems like the holidays took away some of my fitness.

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  33. I totally have the winter blues. Buuuut I'm kinda happy I don't have to run in it. That's the silver lining about being injured in the winter I guess!

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    1. See, that's what I like about you! Making lemonade out of lemons!

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  34. Oh man, I dread step ups any time I see them in my workout. 20 lb dumbbells IS a lot.

    I think I might need that weather app. But I'm afraid it's going to tell me to suck it up and stop whining once summer hits....

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    1. That was 40 extra pounds to carry up those boxes! Wow! It was hard.

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  35. I agree about taking longer to bundle up than actually running... I can't wait until spring when it's just a couple of things I have to remember. Of course, then I'll be slathering on the sunscreen since the sun will rise during our runs.

    Thanks for the linkup!

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    1. I'm slathering on vaseline on my face now, so I've got the slathering covered! LOL

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  36. Congrats on finishing up the Lululemon/Strava challenge. I'm not a fan of winter either... the cold, dreary days, and short days really do me in.

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  37. I was in that Strava challenge. I ran 40KM for that badge. I would have loved to run 80KM and normally would, but injuries... plus the snow last week kept me from working out like I wanted to. I'm still glad I got 40K, that is more than many people. The cold temperature makes my joints and muscles hurt more, so sometimes I just choose not to run in it, even though it doesn't get very cold where I live. It looks like you had a great week despite the cold temps and winter blues. Also I love your plaid looking pants you wore to CrossFit- they are super cute.

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    1. Oh, those are InknBurn! I'll tell you, that gear has been a bright spot in a very dark winter!!

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  38. Yes, it's so ridiculous how long it takes to get dressed for this! This morning I spent 20 minutes getting all dressed for a 30 minute run. I always want to run more miles because "what's the point of spending all that time just for 3 miles" but they can't ALL be long runs! So over winter.

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    1. I can't imagine doing a run streak and having to dress like that to run a mile! LOL!

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  39. Brrr! You cold weather runners inspire me! It as 80 degrees in San Diego this weekend, so no cold weather here!

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    1. No, really, I'd gladly run in your temperatures and not be inspirational!

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  40. I too thought that 30 felt "warm" today. You know its been incredibly cold when you think that that's warm! Is it spring yet?!?

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  41. Me too. It's been tough. It's only mid-January and I am done with winter.

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  42. So true about the layering taking up too much time! Sounds like you got in some good runs in spite of the cold. We're supposed to have warmer weather next weekend and I'm really looking forward to it :)

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  43. Congrats on completing the Lululemon challenge! I was short by 5k since I was sick earlier. :( Oh wells. Super job on your cross fit workouts. They always look tough! Hope the weather turns out!

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    1. I'm so sorry you had to bail on the challenge! It is tough this time of year!

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  44. We have been having gloomy foggy days here in NorCal, but nothing bad compared to the weather over there. I hope things warm up for you. I did complete the 80k for the 40/80 challenge. Hope we get a cool prize.

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  45. Now I’m wishing I was in on that lululemon challenge - I love me some free clothes too 😉 The Midwest has been a little ridiculous this winter, right?! Over Christmas we had 1 day that was above zero in a 9 day stretch. I try not to complain about winter much but this year... it’s really getting me down. The snow came Nov 1st, our baby was born Nov 8th and I’ve only ran outside a handful of times since. April, where are you?!

    P.S. I like Foreigner!

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    1. I'm with you--so over winter! And we have a long, long way to go (ok, not the exact lyrics, but close enough, right?)

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  46. Wait...free lululemon?? Kicking myself for not signing up for that!

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    1. By now, you know it wasn't as advertised. I'm still glad I did it, but Lululemon....not happy with them.

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  47. First off, I now have that Foreigner song in my head and it won't go away. haha Second, I signed up for the lululemon challenge but totally slacked and didn't meet the mileage. In a normal month it wouldn't have been an issue, but for some reason my runs were few and far between. I should have used free stuff as a motivator!! Your week sounds so good! I love snow, but I'd be ok if spring arrived early!

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    1. This winter has been rough, hasn't it? Fortunately we get a break this week.

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  48. Thanks for hosting this great fitness bloghop again! So jealous of your runs this week! I have been working crazy hours and have not had a chance to run or hike in 6 days! No!

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  49. You were pushing me along in the lulu/strava challenge! I hope we get something good. :)

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  50. I completed the 40/80 Challenge! I'm really hoping there's a good prize, although fortunately my conditions weren't that bad for running. I also find winter running helps keep the winter blues away - you are right about that fresh air!

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    1. The challenge is a little more challenging for some of us than others, for sure! Glad you got it done.

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  51. I know the weather has really been a suckfest where you are. It must make it really hard to get excited about running. But you've been doing a great job, and I think we are over halfway done with winter!

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