"Look at that crazy running in the winter!"

Those are the EXACT words I used to say when passing dedicated Chicago runners in my car. When the winds here blow and the snow freezes into ice within minutes of being on the ground, every instinct in you says, "Stay inside, wrap up like a taco in a blanket and sit still to preserve the warmth". Then there's those who invest in gear that makes them look ready to rob a bank, strap on their shoe spikes, and hit the pavement.

I consider myself somewhere in the middle. Like the adults in my life always say, "Everything in moderation". While I NEED a good outdoor run like I need a square of dark chocolate every night, I also need my earlobes and nose cartiledge. So I occassionaly dress up in full outdoor gear and brave the cold. I recommend to anyone interested in running through the winters the following essential accessories in addition to the usual pants, jackets, hats and gloves: a face mask like this one

And a reflective running vest. I'm struggling to upload the picture of me wearing one, but it's on my facebook if you're truly curious. Basically, you look like a running construction worker. It works like magic however, and makes drivers look (I wouldn't assume anyone would look for runners on a 20degree day so I make myself REALLY bright!).

I'm hoping to get a few good outood runs in while I'm home in MI for the holidays. The open fields and tree-lined roads make me remember why I started running in the first place; because being outdoors, moving your body and enjoying the fresh air is basic and almost instinctual.

I hope you all are having happy winter workouts and if you're choosing to stay bundled up inside...well...I'm jealous :)

Happy Holiday Season! And thank you again to anyone and everyone who's donated thus far!

**Donate here and write "Laura's Marathon" in the "notes" section. AND THANKS! https://www.kintera.org/site/apps/ka/sd/donor.asp?c=bpLJJTOvHmE&b=5282383&en=6eIFILOkH4JAITOzF8JAISMzGlKVLYNyEdKDISPzGfIIIQNxHsF