Sunday, November 1, 2015

The HoHo Chronicles (WW # 13)


This weekly linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin.  The purpose is to connect with and support other active women.  We want to hear about your adventures. 

You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!   {See rules}

If you are visiting, Welcome!  Tricia and I would be honored if you would link with us here on the Weekly Wrap. 



I am participating in the Grow Your Blog Hop hosted by Runaway Bridal Planner.  In the spirit of getting to know one another, I thought I'd share a few things about me before I get to the usual Weekly Wrap.

I fell in love with running around eight years ago.  I've run 141 races of varying distances.  The half marathon is my absolute favorite and I've completed 36 of them so far.  I am Half Fanatic #5867!  



I started this blog as a way to document my races.  I'm older...and I was beginning to forget.  Along the way, I have made so many wonderful connections.  I am truly blown away by the support and friendship in this blogging community.  I look forward to meeting many more strong, amazing women!
My collection of half marathon medals.



I realized years ago that I am solar powered.  Happiness is being outside and preferably around a body of water.  Naturally, my other passion is slalom water skiing.  Except for a few we-can't-afford-groceries years in our early marriage, I've been skiing since the age of 10.

From PoPo's Perspective


You will find me on the lake every weekend in warm weather.  Sadly, I am unable to ski year round.  I'm just not fond of being that cold.  Someone should invent indoor water skiing {Eureka!}.  I strapped a GoPro to my head this summer and posted interesting to me, yet mind-numbing to everyone else, skiing footage.  

One last run before the ominous approaching storm hits!


I've just completed week #5 with a foot injury, which unfortunately kept me from running my first full marathon -- ChicagoAs a needed distraction, I replaced my old mountain bike with a shiny new road bike.  I am both cycling and pool running to try and maintain my fitness level and hopefully salvage my registration in January's Disney Marathon.  And admittedly, it's my attempt to stay somewhat sane while I heal.  The jury is still out on that one.

This is Sanity (or Hope or Plan B or Bugs) my new bike.  Decisions!

I am married to a wonderful man and boat driver extraordinaire (aka PoPo).  By the way, we met on Halloween many full moons ago.  (Happy Anniversary honey!  What a journey!)  We have three awesome sons, one fantastic DIL, two precious grandkids, and two nutty dogs.  The house is often chaotic on weekends.  My uber cool granny name was designated as HoHo.  {I can't make this up!}

Meet Mojo and Mini

On to the usual Weekly Wrap.     I'll try to keep it short.

Wednesday I returned to the gym at 5 a.m. for 91 minutes of pool running.  I have been adding 10 minutes each visit.  I was able to increase my average HR to 138 (up from 130).  Had it not been for a few foot cramps, I think it would have hit my target of 140.

Thursday morning I rode my bike 16.5 miles.  My average HR was 154.  I had the luxury of waiting until daylight and could see the sheep and donkeys that live on my usual short route.  It was also very misty.  I pretended I was somewhere in England.  I would fit right into Pride & Prejudice, no?



Saturday I planned to bike for 30 miles.  But around mile 10-11, I realized my phone had fallen out of its pouch.  I don't know how this happened, because you'd literally have to turn the bike upside down and shake it.  I began backtracking and searching where I had cut through the woods (I just knew it was in those woods!).  I cut my ride short at 14.5 miles, too worried about finding the phone.  No, I did NOT find it!  

Our college football team was not playing Saturday afternoon so it was low key at our house.  For the first time ever, I did not give out Halloween candy!  We originally had other plans that fell through and I had not bought any.  It felt odd.  We did watch a horror movie, The Lazarus Effect.  It stank.

Sunday was rain, rain go away.  After having to return to the phone store because they sold me the wrong model the day before (irritating!) I forced myself eagerly went to the pool and ran for 102 minutes, adding my usual 10 minutes.  My HR averaged 139.  Argh!  So close to the coveted 140.  In summary, I rode my bike 2 times for a total of 31 miles and pool ran 2 times for a total of 3 hours and 13 minutes.  Booyah.

And that's a wrap!


Is any one else solar powered?

Have you done any alternative training due to injury?




128 comments:

  1. That's too bad that you lost your phone. :( The running stats you posted in the beginning are so impressive! 141 races! I can't imagine! Equally impressive are the 36 half marathons. See, maybe the half distance wants you back and made a deal with your foot to not let you run a full. The half loves you too much!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was due for a phone upgrade but that's not how I wanted to go about it. I lost my cool running phone cover too. Believe me, I've had the "you need to stick with halves" conversation quite a few times lately.

      Delete
  2. I have to say that I am so impressed with all your races! I've been running for 25 years and I can say that I'm nowhere near close to that! And yes, I've spent my share of time in the boot. My PF is threatening to derail my recovery....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well, I'm a tiny bit obsessive about things you know. I'm wondering now if I should have worn a boot. The doc said a good stiff running shoes was OK, so that was easy enough. I hope your PF gets better. That's one thing I haven't had...yet.

      Delete
  3. Nice job with the pool running! That is an impressive amount of time to do that for, especially at that heart rate!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Monitoring my HR is the only way to know if what I'm doing is sufficient, at least in my mind. And with pool running, that is non-stop movement. No breaks. No rest.

      Delete
  4. That's a lot of races and half marathons! We need to get you a cycling jersey with pockets in the back for those essential things like cell phones. What size would you wear? I am in need of cleaning out my cycling gear (and have some very lightly used stuff that just didn't fit me right) - I'd be happy to send you one if you're interested.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How sweet of you to offer. I would feel so official in a cycling jersey! The size would depend on the sleeve. I have very wide shoulders, although I'm not big. If the top has sleeves, I would probably need a medium. My new cell phone is so big too! Are the pockets big enough?

      Delete
    2. Yes, they should be. I fit my phone in a zipper case, spare tube, nutrition, and on occasion a water bottle in the pockets. My shoulders got big from swimming, too, so I think if it fits me in the shoulders it may fit you. I will look through my stuff tonight after work and send you a few photos.

      Delete
    3. Thank you Kelli! I appreciate that so much!

      Delete
  5. I loved getting to know you better!

    I was solar powered for years until a melanoma and tons of basil cells keep in the shade as much as possible.

    Thanks for the linkup!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't have to be out in the full sun, just outside on a sunny day. In fact my favorite spot is on my porch in the swing. Our boat has a top we use in the heat of the day too. I like to think I'm smarter about being in he sun than I was in my younger days. I am religious about my yearly skin checkups too. You can't be too careful.

      Delete
  6. I love being outdoors swimming, fishing, you name it. I don't even mind doing yard work if it's a pretty day. I enjoyed reading more about you. That's a lot of races! I'm doing the Grow Your Blog Hop too, but I'm in the 2nd round. I look forward to meeting other bloggers.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I may do the 2nd round too. I offered to fill a cancellation, if needed. It's a lot of work actually! I like to just sit outside in my swing too. Sitting inside feels so depressing and I already have to do enough of that at work. I love yard work as long as the gnats are swarming around my face. LOL.

      Delete
  7. Your dogs are too cute. I thought my sister's dog was the only one that actually laid on a raft in the pool.....too funny! I didn't know you were running ar Disney this year, we are too. Maybe we will see each other:) Hopefully your biking continues to go well for a good cross training workout.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I confess, my dogs were not enjoying that float. We do make them swim a few times every years so they can remember where to find the steps, just in case they fall in. Yes, that has happened. I so hope I can make Disney! It was my first half and it would be very fitting to do my first full there.

      Delete
  8. Sounds like a great training week! It's great to get to know more about you! Wow! That's a lot of races!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is a lot of races. When I get into something, I tend to be a bit obsessive with it. I can't help it. LOL.

      Delete
  9. I am definitely solar powered. I live in an apartment but we did buy a small house so I could be outside every weekend. Then I bought an apartment with balconies. I spend 6 months a year on those balconies. I also started running outside about 6 or 7 years ago and try to avoid the treadmill, except in rain !

    My limit at the pool is 60 minutes. I love it, but beyond that am bored stiff and cold. Keeping fingers crossed for you for the Disney marathon. Have a great week !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I spend enough time inside at work all week! Believe me, I looked like a prune after 102 minutes in the pool. My feet were practically blue too. I'm sort of treating it like my long run. I'm not sure what my max will be. We'll see.

      Delete
  10. There is something about the sun that makes a crap day a good day.
    We had a seriously long and cold winter, now that it's spring (i'm in Australia I should mention), I'm soaking up the sun.
    I just have to think of this cartoon http://bit.ly/1NkxXp0 and I'm like, yep that is me.
    Stopping by via the blog hop - www.runmum.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am in southern USA, and thankfully get a good many sunny days. I love that cartoon! It's perfect for the way I feel. Welcome to my blog all the way from Australia! Isn't it cool that we can connect over continents?

      Delete
  11. I love being outside! I just do not enjoy skiing, the hubby was a professional and yup still don't care for it- LOL! I am keeping my fingers crossed for you for Disney 2016! I am impressed with all this pool activity and bike riding, keep it up Holly!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I didn't know your hubs was a professional water skier. I guess he did the tournament circuit at some point? I always said I would enter when I'm 90 and win my age group. LOL. The few times I've tried the slalom course, I could never get all the buoys. But, I've never practiced on trained for that either. One day...

      Delete
  12. I do love the sun. We're going into a tough time of year and I shudder to think what my vitamin D levels may do. You are rocking the plan B training and it will pay off! Here's to an awesome week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was shocked this past January when I was told my Vitamin D was a little low. Hello, outdoor girl here! I wonder if it has something to do with age? Or, just timing. If my appointment was in July, my levels would probably be through the roof.

      Delete
  13. I'm learning that my running and cycling are what I need to counteract my day job. My mind can wander instead of multitask. Bummer on the phone - did you try "find my phone"?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As luck would have it Coco, I was playing around with my phone and inadvertently turned that feature off recently. And no, you can't turn it back on using a PC in case you are wondering. Live and learn. I was past due for an phone upgrade, so luckily it was a big deal. I did lose a few pictures though.

      Delete
  14. I am also "solar powered" and I LOVE that term! We moved to Florida from Chicago last October and I think it was the best decision of my life - No more winter and sunshine all of the time :) Such a bummer on the Chicago marathon but you seem to be staying positive. I have always wanted to run a Disney race so fingers crossed you're healed and ready to go in January!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That is a huge change in climate. We go to the FL panhandle quite often and I've raced quite a few half marathons in that area. I'm trying my best to stay positive, but admit some days are tougher than others.

      Delete
  15. Solar powered? Absolutely!!!!! I cannot bear the idea of being of inside when we have a beautiful world outside (with much fresher air to breathe, by the way). You probably will never catch me skiing, though #totalklutz That's a bummer about Chicago, but Disney will be magical....both of those races are on my bucket list ;-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'll just sit outside on my back porch too. It beats sitting in the house. I've done two half marathons at Disney and yes they are magical. I'm praying I'll be able to do the full. They certainly know how to keep you entertained. Those miles just fly by.

      Delete
  16. So great to learn more about you! 141 races! That is awesome! I too am solar powered and love being outdoors. We try to get out as much as possible! Sorry to hear about your phone. Sounds like a good week. You are doing awesome with the biking and pool running!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hadn't backed up my phone is a while. I was going to trade up soon and was waiting until then. At least I only lost a little bit. It could have been much worse. I still can't figure out how it happened. That bike was upright the entire time. I think it was a Halloween spirit.

      Delete
  17. I hate when the internet eats my post. Even worse is that Chester can tell I am not happy & it makes him nervous. But not for long. He's laid out on his bed again.

    Sorry about your phone. You're doing a great job with the alternative cardio!

    It's funny, I tell my husband all the time that I'm solar powered but we have so little sun. :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I tell you, on gloomy days...I have hard time. The lack of sun really effects my energy level. My mood!

      Delete
  18. Yes, most definitely solar powered. I have only lived in Florida and when we travel anywhere during fall or winter I get homesick for the sunshine. There is something about not needing to wear a bunch of layers for simple tasks like going to the grocery store that is quite appealing to me.

    Hope you are feeling better for January. We aren't running in January but we will be in Disney that weekend for our daughters 2nd birthday and she is doing the kids races. :) I'm doing Princess and Star Wars so Marathon Weekend though.

    Erin @ www. astorybooklife.us

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What a wonderful place to be for your daughter's 2nd birthday. I love that she will be doing the kids races. I have never done the Princess race in February (I waited too late last time) and of course the Star Wars races are new. Both are something to look forward to though.

      Delete
  19. I love how you describe yourself as solar powered! I am too and I have such a hard time with the shorter days of winter. fun to be connecting with you more in the blog hop! Have a great week

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm surprised there were just a couple of bloggers I recognized in the hop. There are so many new-to-me ones. It's been fun meeting all these wonderful people!

      Delete
  20. My parents met at a Halloween party too. I always knew there was a big reason I loved Halloween more than any other holiday.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My husband was dressed as Dracula and I was an old cleaning lady. What possessed me to choose this, I don't know. But, hey, it worked out OK.

      Delete
  21. Happy Anniversary!! My parents got married on Halloween! Did you do anything fun to celebrate? I haven't gone water skiing in a while, but it's so fun!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How cool your parents married on Halloween. I guess that would have been a good idea for us, since that's when we met. We didn't do anything special that day. We did both remember it though. That's good for folks our age. LOL.

      Delete
  22. I hate when unplanned events happen, like losing your phone! I am super impressed with the amount of races your have ran! I have had to use alternative training due to injury! I was in a boot most of the summer so running wasn't an option, I spent a lot of time in the pool swimming and water running. When I got to a point were I could go without the boot for shorter periods I got to get on my bike. I thought I would lose a lot not being able to run but I was surprised at how easy it was to get back to running. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The doc didn't insist I wear a boot, just a good stiff running shoe. Initially I was happy about that but now I wonder if maybe I would have healed quicker. Oh well. I'm encouraged by your story of it being easy once you returned. I hope that is my case too!

      Delete
  23. Well you know we are so much alike. I started running in April 2008 and I have run well over 100 (maybe 120?) I am so solar -powered. I HATE the winter. Have a short weekend planned for Dec & Feb in Fla. I met my hubby on Oct 25 (close to Halloween) and he is an expert boat driver. The first thing he did that summer was teach me to water ski. I did bike when I was injured but it never replaced my love of running. I didn't have access to pool to pool run. Hope you heal soon!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, that's a little freaky. We do have a lot of similarities! I know you like to visit FL to race so if you ever want to run a race in the panhandle, just let me know. It is easy for me to get there! And it would be a free place to stay too!

      Delete
    2. hokey dokey. Maybe???

      I've never been to the panhandle. Give me some dates of races there in March or April...

      Delete
    3. 02/28 there is one in Gulf Shores, AL at Lulu's (Jimmy Buffet's sister) with the Gulf Coast Series. Pensacola in April, same series I think. Of course there are quite a few around my hometown between February-April. Mercedes is a good one. Nice medal.

      Delete
    4. We'll see if I get into the NYC half in March. Otherwise I may be looking. I have one in Feb (Sarasota, FL) but I need to put the panhandle on my calendar for 2017.

      Delete
  24. Love it! I am half fanatic #3915 and hope to continue my running for many years to come. I don't swim, so normally when I am injured I am down for the count minus strength training. Hope you are feeling better soon!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I didn't know you were a half fanatic. After I joined, there was an explosion of membership! The member #s are way up there now. I'm only a Jupiter. It will take a lot of work to get to Mars. Maybe a series would work.

      Delete
  25. Wow, 141 races! So inspiring! The half in my favorite distance as well! Good luck with your foot injury!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well, thank you. The half doesn't take as much out of you - time or otherwise. It alsos give you plenty of time to start slow are work into the race. Unlike those 5ks where you have to blast out of the starting gate at full speed. LOL.

      Delete
  26. Ha! I like that name for it - solar powered! I think I am too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gloomy day = gloomy HoHo. No sun causes extremely low energy for me. At least I recognize what's wrong with me on those days.

      Delete
  27. This is great! Congrats on running 141 races - that's amazing! Makes me want to sit down and count my races - I haven't thought of doing that! And love that you are 'solar powered.' :) Great to blog hop with you! www.obsessedbyportia.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I had to count the up when I started this blog. It really is a good way to keep track. With that many, they tend to run together in my mind.

      Delete
  28. I haven't heard it put like that, but I would agree I am solar powered! I am drawn to outdoor activities and more times than not it does evolve around water. I don't have to be in water though just around it I guess.
    That sucked about your phone, are you like me and have so many pictures you like going back too? When I swapped into the droid world I started putting my pictures on a virtual drive, so I'd have them, course that's until a company decides not to have that drive anymore. We won't think about that though.I did learn something new about you, I did not know you started running 8 years ago. Ya know when you do the math on your races, that is almost doing a race every other weekend for 8 years, holy moly!
    I wondered about the The Lazurus Effect movie, glad I didn't take time to watch it. I did catch Sinister a few weekends ago to start off the Halloween season. Also been watching Season 4 of American Horror Story and I just saw where the next season of Hemlock Grove is on Netflix. I guess it's a good thing it gets darker in the evening to watch all these. Have a great week my friend! I have a great feeling about this weeks linkup ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I had not backed up to the cloud like I should have. I was planning to do that before I traded up to a new phone, which I was past due to get. Thankfully, I did have a few month old backup on iTunes, which included pictures contacts, apps, etc. So I didn't lose nearly as much as I could have. Most of my races have been in the last few years. I did 17 half marathons last year. :) It took me a couple of years to get my nerve up.

      Delete
  29. I knew you had done a lot of races bit 141 in a few short years, Oh my gosh that is amazing.
    Love the term! I am totally solar powered. In fact too many days indoors and I go stir crazy! I think that is kinda why I have no problem running outside year round. Some see snow and hit the treadmill, I see it and think adventure :)
    I watched The Lazarus Effect and thought the same thing in fact I remember after thinking that it was a waste of my time.
    So glad you joined us in the hop, hope your having a great time with it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If the sun is not out, my energy level is on the floor. I feel like I've been run over by a truck and sometimes even an enormous amount of caffeine doesn't help. I should be grateful I live in a somewhat sunny location I guess. I appreciate you hosting the hop. It's been fun and today is crazy busy.

      Delete
  30. I am totally solar powered! Nothing better than being outside in nature. This past year I've focused on running but will soon be adding in biking and swimming as next year I want to tri. I have a full marathon in a few weeks and wish I had been cross training as the body is starting to feel the wear & tear. So nice to meet you through the hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, wow. A tri sounds wonderfully exciting, but scary too. If I had someone that could guide me through that process, and basically hold my hand, I just might make that leap. My swimming would not be pretty though. But I'm a great dog paddler. Good luck on your marathon!

      Delete
  31. Great to get to know you a little bit better! HoHo is a fun name for a grandma :). Glad the pool and cycling workouts are going well - but ugh, losing your phone is the worst! We live in a walkup apartment, so we never participate in Halloween...hopefully we will next year when we move!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Initially the name was strange, but I've gotten so used to it - it's just who I am now. Giving out candy and seeing all the little kids' costumes is fun. The big teenagers, not in costume, who come to the door holding pillowcases are a little concerning though.

      Delete
  32. Wow - I am totally impressed! 141 races!!! I am definitely not solar powered, but the rest of my family is so by default we spend a ton of time outside!! So thrilled to get to know you better through the hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I tend to get a wee bit obsessed with things. LOL. I think wanting to be outside is something that carried over from my childhood. There was nothing to do indoors (no cable! no video games!) so we had no choice but to play outside. I did like to read back then too.

      Delete
  33. Wow lady, your medal collection is amazing! I agree with being solar powered and feel the same way - even though my sport is primarily in the gym - I still enjoy any time I can spend outside! So great to meet you and good luck with all of your future endeavors.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you! I work with a lady who goes to the gym twice a day for multiple classes and strength training. I'm in awe. That would really be out of my comfort zone.

      Delete
  34. Great week! Love the getting to know you part! What a cute grandma name! That medal collection is quite impressive too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I've gotten used to such a weird name now -- it's just who I am. As soon as I'm healed up, I plan to add a few more medals to add to that collection.

      Delete
  35. Stopping by from the blog hop! So nice to meet you! Great recap! What a cool idea to do for your blog. Your medal collection is huge - congratulations on your accomplishments! I love the phrase "I am solar powered." I have to say I am too! Being outdoors is thrilling and needed just about every day. Soaking up the sun, even during the winter (especially during the winter!) is so nice. I try to take a walk every day when it's sunny out and get a few workouts in outdoors as well. So nice to connect with you through the hop! Hope we can stay in touch!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I hope I can add a few more medals to my collection once my foot heals. I don't even have to be out in the sun, it makes me happy to be in the shade on a sunny day too! My energy level is so low on a gloomy day. It's weird.

      Delete
  36. Love your medal display! I've been fortunate enough to run healthy lately but I will always love kettle bell workouts. They are perfect for building strength and also allow cardio work at the same time :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You know, that is something I have never tried. I can see where it would get your cardio up! Thanks for the tip.

      Delete
  37. So sorry about the lost phone. That was one of my fears about running outdoors - that I would lose something so I got a Fuel belt and keep my personal stuff close to my body.
    I love the idea of being solar powered. I think we all are - we've found ways to survive on alternative fuels but solar is really the ideal for us.
    Great wrap-up and I'm looking forward to seeing more of what you do this week.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I thought I had my phone secured in a zippered pouch attached to my bike. I honestly don't know what happened. It must have been a Halloween ghost! I usually don't ever run with it. The sun just seems to create so much energy for me.

      Delete
  38. That is a huge bummer about your phone. Mine fits in my bike jersey pocket while I'm on my bike. I think I'd have to fall for it to come out of the pocket.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well, not being a true cyclist I don't have a bike jersey. I should definitely get one. But I really thought I had it secured in a zippered pouch attached to the bike. I don't know how it came out. Maybe I forgot to zip it. Even so, how it hopped out is beyond me.

      Delete
  39. How cool to get to learn a little more about you! Happy Anniversary :)

    That stinks about losing the phone - I wouldn't be able to keep going after that either! There's something about a lost thing that just sticks in my brain.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was so frustrated and worried about the phone I just couldn't ride any more. I wanted to get another one ASAP and also make the lost one useless too. I was worried someone had it and had gotten past my passcode.

      Delete
  40. Happy anniversary! It sounds like you have an great time staying fit! I have never tried water skiing! I somewhat terrifies me! The pics are awesome of you :)
    Big bummer for losing your phone! I hate when that kind of stuff happens!
    I am def solar powered! I am not a fan of these late fall/winter days where it is dark so early! I would much rather it be light outside 14 hours a day ;)
    Anyways, I am going to join in the link-up as soon as I have my race recap from yesterday finished!
    Glad to have found you through the blog hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My Mother had to bribe me when I was little with a trip to Six Flags because I was terrified to trying skiing. My siblings were trying it and my cousin too. I was completely terrified! It worked. Smart lady. I left work this evening in the dark. I don't like that at all. How wonderful you will be joining us in the link-up. We will be glad to have you!

      Delete
  41. Definitely solar powered over here! All that running keeps you looking Y-O-U-N-G! Your "older" comment really threw me and definitely would have never thought you were old enough to have grand kids!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, my! You are my new best friend. LOL. I appreciate the very sweet compliment.

      Delete
  42. What an amazing collection you have from your races! that is definitely a pride wall there!! Way to go!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I hope to be adding to it soon...when my foot hurries up and heals already!

      Delete
  43. Ugh! What a bummer about your phone and then the store giving you the wrong model!

    You are kicking butt with keeping up your training! You are still running Disney, right?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I specifically asked for a certain 64 GB phone. I get home and later realize she sold me a 16! Ugh! I should have double checked before I left. I hope to run Disney. They do have a short deferral period (I think) in late November. Maybe I will know then whether or not it seems doable. I really want to!

      Delete
  44. That stinks about your phone!!! I am currently doing low key exercises due to having Thyroid cancer, it's been a learning curve. Definitely makes you stronger than you thought you were though!

    www.mom4ce.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm sorry to hear about your illness. I hope your treatment is going well and you'll be back to doing all of the things you love very soon!

      Delete
  45. OMG-I am solar powered....I love this! I too am solar powered. I remember one year we had rain and clouds for almost 43 days here in the DC area...I just about died! Like literally I couldn't function. I missed 3 days of work!!

    Way to go with your training this week! you are really getting it in on the bike and in the pool!!!

    Sorry about your phone :(

    Tamieka@fitballingrunningmom

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I couldn't stand 43 days of gloomy weather! After a couple, I don't know what to do. You'd have to scrape any little bit of my energy you could find off the floor. The phone thankfully ended up being to huge loss. It was just very irritating to deal with.

      Delete
  46. Awww, how fun to have that nickname of HoHo! I wish I could be solar powered. Living in the midwest makes it a little tough to do that right now. I love summer and the water. Great job on your training this week and sweet new shiny bike! I'm a little bit envious :) So great to meet you through the blog hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's pretty strange when you first hear your grandson say "I want to go to HoHo's house". At this point, it's who I am. I get really tired of the excessive heat we have in the south by the end of the summer, but I am always so sad to give up water skiing for the season.

      Delete
  47. Haha okay, I have never thought of or heard the term "solar powered" before but I DEFINITELY am. I honestly don't run outside much (I'm more of a gym person) but I am SO much more productive, active and happy when the sun is out. Today was one of the gloomiest days this year and day light savings didn't help, but that's okay. I'll make it :)

    Sarah
    www.amodernshorelife.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know! I can get things done if the sun is shining! Everything seems right with the world too! I drag around if it is not. It's actually very odd. At least I'm aware of it, I guess.

      Delete
  48. I love that indoor water skiing idea! I had not idea you had completed so many halves, that's great. Sorry about you phone :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it would be awesome to somehow have a huge body of water indoors. That would be cool! Yeah, I know I'm dreaming.

      Delete
  49. I got to have the sun shining in order to feel energized. During the winter months it is so much harder to get my butt out the door for a run!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly. I get so much more done in every aspect of the day if the sun is shining. It's not just exercise related for me.

      Delete
  50. Yeah that phone thing stank. I was due for an upgrade so it wasn't so bad. Just so stupid. I have no idea how it fell out. That bike was upright the whole time. I try to be conscious about being IN the sun. I'm perfectly happy in the shade on a sunny day. My back porch swing in my favorite spot after all. Maybe we can meet in the middle somewhere next year for a half. That would be great!

    ReplyDelete
  51. I don't think my comment from earlier went through, so trying again. :)
    I am the same way when it comes to being solar-powered. I've got to have at least 30 minutes outside in the sun or I go insane! That is quite a collection of race medals, too. Glad to meet you through the blog hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I just like to be able to see it out the window too, like when I'm at work. I get so much more done on a sunny day. Thanks for trying again!

      Delete
  52. 141 races?!?! Love it! and Solar powered! Love it!!! So glad I found you via Blog Hop. I look forward to keeping up with you!!! ~Cheers from Brandy @ Pounds2Miles.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for coming by! I hope to add to that number of races very soon.

      Delete
  53. Whoo for those medals! I'm just getting into running and am still at the 5k :P
    But I hope to get better and do longer races, like halves at least once!
    I absolutely love your idea of being solar powered! I love summer when it isn't too horribly hot outside I enjoy sitting in the shade and just feeling the summer breeze! My favorite is the beach.Glad to find fun, interesting people like you from the blog hop!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Running starts with just a couple of steps. Congratulations on the 5k! That's a wonderful place to begin or stay at, as many people love and focus on that distance! I too just like sitting in the shade on a sunny day.

      Delete
  54. Totally love that you call yourself solar powered. What a lovely sentiment! And your medal display is very creative! Bravo on that idea!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My half marathon display is two cheap curtain rods from Walmart. But they both expand so I can add plenty of other medals. They are pretty spread out in that photo too. I have a lot of work to do to fill it up.

      Delete
  55. Hi there HoHo (that is a sentence I never thought I'd say LOL!)! I am also solar powered and love that term. When we moved from the east coast to the San Diego area, it became apparent that I am much, MUCH, happier when the skies are blue and the sun is high. I love that your grandkids named you HoHo and I love your determination to make it to the marathon in January. I had to defer my first marathon attempt too and it's such a sinking, devastating feeling. But you WILL get there. I know it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Trust me, it's something I thought I'd never say either "Hi, I'm HoHo". What? LOL. Oh wow - I can imagine the weather is fantastic in your area. So you've been in my shoes for missing your first marathon too. I see you survived it. So good to know!

      Delete
  56. HoHo and PoPo? That is adorable! Haha. I have to tell my boyfriend about your self-description of being solar powered! We just spent the week at the beach, and he was talking about how he didn't get as much sleep as usual but didn't feel tired, and that he thinks it is because he got to spend so much time in the sun. It fits your description perfectly! ;) He will love it! Keep doing what you're doing - it's so inspiring! Nice to meet you on the blog hop, HoHo! (haha!)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, those are our super cool grandparent names. LOL. The beach makes you feel wonderful, doesn't it? The sun has such an energizing effect. It hasn't made an appearance today and my body can tell!

      Delete
  57. I love the idea of sharing a brief running history... I have no idea how many races I've done- I'll have to count them up!

    Did you ever find/get returned to you your cell phone?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You do need to add up your races! I hope I can add a few more toward the end of the year. Sadly, I did not find my phone.

      Delete
  58. You are really doing well training while getting over your injury. When I had the calf injury this summer, and missing out on running for a month seemed like an eternity. Now it seems like a blip on my year of running. I'm also a huge fan of half marathons, but may give a nod to the marathon distance. Please add NYC Marathon to your bucket list. It was absolutely amazing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Pam. I do think I'll look back on this and see it as a blip. I just want the blip to be over with already. I can't wait to read about NYC! I know it must have been incredible.

      Delete
  59. You motivated me to count - I've run 167 races with at least 8 more scheduled this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You've got me beat! And there will be no catching you this year (stupid foot). Now make a list of all of them and post on your blog. That way you'll always have the information. :)

      Delete
    2. I have then all listed on my blog but I never counted them up before - we would be even if you were still running - DAMN injury!

      Delete
    3. I just realized I had not updated by list with the last race I did. So there's one more! I'll really have to get it in gear next year to be able to close the gap.

      Delete
  60. I'm with you on being solar powered! I love being outside. It helps me recharge so much more than doing the exact same workout indoors.

    I hope your foot heals in time for the Disney marathon! I did the Goofy challenge several years ago, and the Disney races were a blast!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've done a couple of Disney half marathons. Knowing how much fun they are, I really want to do the full marathon. Maybe I'll get to the Goofy Challenge one day. That's fantastic!

      Delete
  61. The half marathon is my favorite distance, too! I love the way you have your race medals displayed. I've never heard of a love for the outdoors being described as being "solar powered." I love that description, though! I, too, am solar powered and I always have been since I was a little.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That display is made of easy and cheap curtain rods (that expand too!) from Walmart. It's been very gloomy and rainy here for a few days My body knows it. Low energy!

      Delete

I enjoy reading your comments. Thanks for taking the time to leave one!