Come back warmth, come back

It's been difficult to stay as active with the colder weather and work travel months (I just came back inside from an icy outdoor run and was inspired to write). It takes a different kind of motivation to get outside when it's warm out and the sun is shining vs. not being able to feel your fingers or face. I'm trying to get better at being an all-year runner because I don't want to lose ability in-between the seasons. Better gear definitely helped today's run (1/4 zip thermal pull-over with thumb holes), but I need to invest in some running gloves ASAP.

The peak of my fitness journey (both ability, weight, and overall well-being) was this past August. This was right after my half marathon and Tough Mudder events. I was at my lowest weight (even lower than pre-pregnancy), and feeling generally great. I was exercising consistently about 5x-6x weekly (combination of running and CrossFit).

In October, I broke my 10k record from the previous year from 1:00:04 to 00:53:02. It was refreshing to be able to make a specific speed goal and run the streets of Boston (actually ran side by side with a friend). 

Then things got busy (and cold). My exercise frequency has been closer to 3x weekly and usually lighter runs. I've also been eating for a small village which caused my weight to go up. Really, just getting ready for the hibernation months. Like a bear.

Despite the setback, I was able to collect two more bibs before the end of the year (though I suppose there's time to run one more race if I can find a Christmas one!)

On November 3rd, I was privileged enough to do the pre-race to the NYC marathon (5k) with a time of 29:37. Not a record for me, but not bad considering how much eating and drinking we had done the night before! Rob and I crossed the finish line together. On November 4th, we "ran" many miles chasing cousins Fred and Kara while they ran the actual marathon (no big deal) through Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Of course, I was super inspired and started scheming to run my own marathon (but now I'm not so sure...that's a lot of time running). 

The day after Thanksgiving, I did a post turkey 5k called "Conquer the Hills" where both Rob and another friend joined in absolutely frigid weather (13°F).  As the name implies, it was super hilly (completely in the woods) giving me a time of 00:35:40.

So now what? Not stress about it. Keep moving, keep active through the winter. The spring will bring more opportunities. Though I would like to have a big goal in mind to set for 2019. Maybe another half marathon!