Michelle — Page 4

July Coffee Chat – Book Edition

July 4, 2025 by Michelle 14 Comments

It’s the first Friday of the month so that means for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. So grab your fave beverage and let’s catch up!

July Coffee Chat – Book Edition

I’ve previously mentioned here that one of my goals for the year is to make more time for reading – and so far I’m doing pretty well with this goal. (This post contains affiliate links)

Over coffee, I would tell you that I recently finished Show Don’t Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld and Dawn Staley’s memoir, Uncommon Favor. Sittenfeld’s was a collecion of 12 short stories, some of which I found more enjoyable than others. I had expected to fly through this one but I have to say it was more of a struggle. However, I really enjoyed Staley’s book – I’ve been a big fan of hers since her college basketball days, her Olympic runs, and now as an incredibly successful college coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks.

And, speaking of books, over coffee, I would tell you that recently I stepped out of my comfort zone to join a book club. The club was started by a former collegue and aside from her and another former collegue I won’t know anyone in the group. I’ve been looking for ways to expand my “community” and I like the premise of the club, which is to read two books – one fiction and one non-fiction – that are thematically related to discuss, so I thought why not?

The first selections are The Midnight Library by Matt Haig and Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman – the former explores themes of regret, self acceptance and the meaning of a fulfilling life, while the latter challenges ideas around productivity and time management in favor of focusing on what’s most meaningful in the present moment – should make for interesting reading and discussion.

Over coffee, I would tell you that I have eight other books on my “to read” list. Reading is helping me to minimize my doom-scrolling on social media – so please send any suggestions you have my way!

What would you tell me over coffee? What are you currently reading?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, books, Ultimate coffee date

A Couple of June Runfessions

June 27, 2025 by Michelle 14 Comments

Happy Friday! It’s time for another edition of Fit Five Friday – and since it’s the last Friday of the month, I’m linking up with Marcia to share a couple of Runfessions. So let’s dive in!

A Couple of June Runfessions

While I’ve done great with my goal of daily walks this month, I walk-fess that my mileage took a hit this week thanks to Ma Nature who thought it would be great to usher in the start of summer with a heatwave. Feels like temps of 80+ in the wee hours of the morning and tripple digits by midday are clearly not conditions for racking up the mileage!

Tuesday’s weather map. Heat like this usually doesn’t hit until later in July – and even then triple digits are rarity!

I also walk-fess that while I do own a treadmill, I’ve had zero motivation to use it during this heatwave. Thankfully the temps are supposed to settle down over the weekend.

I runfess that for the first time since my surgery I’ve allowed myself to start checking out running shoe reviews. I’ve been debating between returning to my long-time favorite Brook Ghost or going to my favorite run shop for a fitting. I’m still probably a month or so away from being ready to return to running so there’s no rush, but it’s kinda fun to be looking at running shoes again 🙂

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Runfessions, weather

Five Key Stretches for Runners and Walkers

June 20, 2025 by Michelle 3 Comments

For this week’s Fit Five Friday, we’re talking all about stretching. Yes, you know that one thing that so many of us skip when we’re short on time. I will runfess that prior to my hip issue, I was not always consistent with my stretching routine — but one of the key habits I developed during physical therapy is to stretch regularly.

Now I’m sure to include some dynamic stretching (think leg swings, walking lunges, or high knees) to help warm up my muscles and prepare my body for movement. And, then once the workout is done, it’s time to slow things down with static stretches to help lengthen muscles and support recovery.

Today, I’m sharing five key post-run/walk stretches that I keep in regular rotation.

Fit Five Friday – Five Key Stretches for Runners and Walkers

1. Stair Calf Stretch
While there are a number of different ways to stretch your calves, I always feel the best stretch on a stair, hanging my heel off the edge and slowly dropping it to the ground. Hold for 20–30 seconds and switch sides.

2. Hip Flexor Stretch
Kneel on one knee with the other foot in front at a 90-degree angle. Tuck your pelvis slightly and lean forward into the stretch. You’ll feel it through the front of the hip. Hold for 30 seconds per side.

3. Hamstring Stretch
Hamstrings are another area where I use a number of different stretches but a simple one I do often is a standing stretch where you hinge forward at the hips and reach toward your toes (or as far as you comfortably can) to lengthen your hamstrings. You can also do this seated with one leg extended. Hold for 20–30 seconds.

4. Figure Four Stretch (Glutes & Piriformis)
I like to do this stretch lying down, but you can also sit in a chair (or stand if you have really good balance). Cross one ankle over the opposite knee, then gently pull your legs toward you (lying down) or lean forward (seated). I love the way this stretch helps release tension in the glutes and piriformis.

5. Standing Quad Stretch
Standing tall, grab one ankle behind you and gently pull it toward your glutes while keeping your knees close. This stretch helps counteract the repetitive forward motion of running and walking. Again I hold each side for 20 – 30 seconds.

What are your go-to stretches? Do you have a consistent stretch routine?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, stretching

Catching Up Over June Coffee

June 6, 2025 by Michelle 22 Comments

It’s the first Friday of the month which means for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. So grab your fave beverage and let’s catch up!

Catching Up Over June Coffee

Over coffee, I’d start by asking how your weather’s been? Would you believe that we’ve had 11 straight Saturdays of rain – I kid you not! I’m really not sure what Mother N has against Saturdays but it would be nice to finally have a complete weekend of sunshine. Sadly the forecast for tomorrow looks doubtful – hello Saturday #12 🙁

Over coffee, I would tell you how much I have been enjoying being back in my garden. You see last year between the renovation and my angry hip, I wasn’t able to accomplish much and trust me as the winter thawed it really showed! Its been a lot of work but I’ve been happy to be back at it.

I love Peony season!

Over coffee, I would tell you that one of my favorite Mother’s Day gifts this year was a beautiful fountain pen. I’m a die-hard planner/journal girlie and so I love a good quality pen. My boys picked out a great one, don’t you think?!

What would you tell me over coffee?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Ultimate coffee date, Uncategorized

From Recovery to Running — 5 Essentials I’m Leaning On

May 23, 2025 by Michelle 14 Comments

Recovery may be a long game, but I’m showing up for it one day at a time. As I continue to build back strength post-hip surgery, my fitness routine looks a little different these days, but every piece of it is playing a meaningful role in my recovery.

Here are 5 key parts of my current fitness routine—essentials I’m leaning on now and plan to carry with me when I’m fully back on the road.

Fit Five Friday: From Recovery to Running — 5 Essentials I’m Leaning On

Intentional Movement (Walking + PT Work) — Right now, every step counts—literally. Walking is the foundation of my movement routine, and I pair that with strength work prescribed by my physical therapist. These small but powerful sessions are rebuilding muscle, improving mobility, and helping me move with less discomfort and more confidence.

Stretching + Mobility Work — Stretching is no longer something I skip “if I have time.” It’s non-negotiable. I’m focusing on hip openers, mobility drills, and dynamic stretches that keep my body limber and ready for progress. This habit is here to stay, even when I return to more intense training.

Recovery is Training, Too — Sleep, hydration, and downtime are just as essential as my workouts. I’m prioritizing quality sleep and keep a water bottle nearby at all times. Recovery isn’t just about rest—it’s about giving my body what it needs to heal and perform well, now and in the future.

A Positive Mindset — Staying mentally strong through recovery is just as important as physical progress. I’ve learned that mindset isn’t something that just shows up—it’s something you practice. I lean on small wins, focus on what I can do, and try to celebrate progress, no matter how incremental. (If you’re working through an injury, you might want to check out this earlier post where I shared some tips on staying positive during setbacks.)

Consistency Over Perfection — Some days, everything flows. Other days, it’s just about showing up. Right now, consistency is more important than intensity. I’m focused on making movement a daily habit, even if it’s short. That mindset will serve me well as I rebuild toward running again.

Bonus Boost: Music That Moves Me — A motivating playlist helps lift my mood and keeps me going when energy is low. I think a good playlist can make or break a workout – it’s the soundtrack to my comeback!

Tell me – What are the non-negotiables in your fitness routine?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Friday Five, training

Fit Five Friday: Five Ways to Nourish Your Mental Health

May 9, 2025 by Michelle 7 Comments

When I chose Nourish as my word for 2025, it was a reminder for me to take better care of my whole self, physically, mentally, and spirtually. As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month this May, I’m reminded just how essential that commitment is. Mental wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a foundation. And nourishing our mental health is something we can do daily, in small, sustainable ways.

Here are five simple ways I’m focusing on nourishing my mental health.

Fit Five Friday: Five Ways to Nourish Your Mental Health

Move with Intention
Exercise, for me, isn’t just a physical activity, it’s a mental reset. Whether I’m walking, doing PT exercises, or working in the garden, intentional movement helps clear the mental clutter and boost my mood. It’s not about intensity—it’s about showing up for myself.

Create Space for Stillness
In addition to my daily meditation practice, I’ve been finding value in small moments of stillness—like journaling, sipping my morning coffee without reaching for my phone, or sitting outside and listening to the birds. These little pauses help me stay grounded before the day rushes in.

Connect with People Who Fill Your Cup
Meaningful connection is a big part of mental well-being. I’ve been more intentional about spending time with people who make me feel seen, supported, and joyful. A quick text or an in-person catch-up can be more uplifting than we realize.

Set Boundaries Without Guilt
Saying no or not right now is one of the most nourishing things you can do. I’ve been working on releasing the guilt and giving myself permission to step back when needed—whether that’s from overcommitting or absorbing other people’s energy.

Ask for Help—and Accept It
Nourishment sometimes looks like reaching out. Whether it’s therapy, talking to a friend, or simply being honest about how you’re doing, asking for help is strength in action. You don’t have to have it all figured out to be worthy of support.

Tell me one way you take care of your mental wellbeing.

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Friday Five, Mental Health Awareness Month, one word, Self-care

May Coffee Chat

May 2, 2025 by Michelle 24 Comments

Hello May!

I love the feeling of having a fresh new month laid out before us, don’t you? It’s always a great way to kick off the month with a little coffee chat with friends – so for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. Grab a mug of your fave beverage, and let’s chat.

May Coffee Chat

Over coffee, I’d tell you that, in typical May-hem fashion, there’s not a lot of white space on the calendar this month, and I’m not mad about it. I have booked lots of time with friends for lunch, dinner, cocktails, etc. With my hip surgery just over 2 months in the rearview mirror, I’ve been itching to get out and about more to catch up with friends!

And, speaking of surgery recovery, over coffee, I would happily tell you that I’ll be sprung from PT next Tuesday! I’ve spent the last couple of sessions working on single leg strength work with increasing weight and my “bionic” hip has been tolerating the load nicely. My physio is helping me to create a plan to continue on my own, but as she’s told me, “you have no limitations…time to just go live your life!” – Alleluia!

Over coffee, I would tell you that our new puppy, Ryker, has been with us a month now and is settling in nicely. My gosh I had forgotten just how much frenetic energy a puppy brings – he’s turned our household upside down, but in the best possible way! And I’m super glad our dog Kai has taken to the role of big brother 🙂

Over coffee, I would share that while I’ve been enjoying my “semi-retirement,” I am starting to think about what’s next. Do I look for a new job? Hang out my shingle and consult? Stay in the non-profit sector? Could I continue to enjoy retirement through the summer and dive back in the fall? Lots of questions, but no answers at this point.

So tell me, any big plans for May?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Ultimate coffee date

Sharing a Couple of April Runfessions

April 25, 2025 by Michelle 16 Comments

Well, I’ve blinked and the month is quickly coming to an end. Before I put April in the rearview mirror, for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m joining Marcia to share a couple of Runfessions.

Sharing a Couple of April Runfessions

I runfess that I’ve reached that point with PT where the novelty has worn off and I’m just ready to be done. Don’t get me wrong, I really like the team I’m working with… but I’m so bored and would rather just work out on my own now. Thankfully, I have just a couple more weeks to go.

I runfess that I needed Facebook to remind me that my blog-aversary is coming up. Hard to believe that I penned (or is that typed?) my first blog post 15 years ago! Always grateful for those who have shared in my running journey over the years.

Do you keep track of your blog aniversary? Any runfessions to share?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Runfessions

Fit Five Friday: KURU Atom Fusion Review

April 18, 2025 by Michelle 14 Comments

I received a pair of KURU Atom Fusion sneakers to try out, and after a couple of weeks of wearing them everywhere, I’m happy to say they’ve earned a spot in my recovery rotation. As I work through physical therapy and continue increasing my walking mileage, I’ve been looking for a shoe that offers a solid combo of comfort, support, and style.

So for this week’s Fit Fve Friday, I’m sharing five key takeaways on how the Atom Fusion stacks up. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own.

Fit Five Friday: KURU Atom Fusion Review

1. Instant Comfort with No Break-In Needed
The KURU Atom Fusions felt great right out of the box—no stiffness, no hotspots, just easy comfort from the first wear. For anyone dealing with injury recovery (or just tired feet), that’s a big plus. I also appreciated that the shoes offered a roomy toe box without feeling sloppy. (And, if more space is needed, the Atoms are also available in wide).

2. Support That Stands Out
The shoe offers a really nice balance of cushion and structure, with excellent arch support and a slightly firmer heel cup that adds stability. KURU describes this feature on their website as KURU SOLE, “patented heel-hugging technology…that dynamically flexes with each step to hug and protect your heels.” It’s been perfect for both my single-leg work at PT and longer walks. My hips and legs still feel good at the end of the day—always a sign that the shoe is doing its job.

Source: KURU website

3. Versatility for Real Life
Let’s be real: sneakers are my go-to for just about every outfit these days. The Fusion comes in 3 simple, but classic colorways (Jet Black-Bright White, Midnight Blue-Jet Black, and Mist Gray-Lavender) and avoids the clunky/chunky silhouette typical of a “support shoe”. I’m all in when function meets fashion! I have the Jet Black and think I may pick up the Mist Gray next.

4. Durability & Breathability
Even after steady wear in and out of the gym, these shoes are holding up beautifully. I appreciate the mesh upper that keeps things breathable, especially during longer walks or full days on my feet.

5. Cushioned and Supportive, But… Would I Run in Them?
I typically go for shoes that offer both cushioning and support, and the Atom Fusion definitely delivers. That said, the heel has a firmer feel than some of my running favorites, so I’m not sure how they’d perform on a run. For walking, strength work, and everyday wear, though—they’re a win.

If you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with foot pain, or just looking for a versatile everyday sneaker with serious support, the KURU Atom Fusion is absolutely worth checking out.

Have you tried KURU shoes before? Drop a comment and let me know what you think!

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Friday Five, KURU shoes, product reviews

April Coffee Catch Up

April 4, 2025 by Michelle 24 Comments

It’s time for another edition of Fit Five Friday, and since it is the first Friday of the month I’m linking up with Deborah and Coco for the Ultimate Coffee Date. So let’s chat a bit. (This post contains an affiliate link).

April Coffee Catch Up

Over coffee, I would first tell you that I hit a big milestone this week – I’m now 6 weeks post surgery! I’ve had this date circled as 6 week would mark when my surgeon said I’d have no restrictions. Now, I still am not cleared to run just yet, but I can take on more strength training and more walking miles…all of which will get me back there.

Over coffee, I would tell you that tomorrow I’ll be picking up a new walking buddy – a puppy! My hubs and I have been wanting to get a second dog and have been debating when…well then this little face appeared in my feed from one of the rescue groups I follow and we had our answer! He’s a German Shepard/Great Prynees mix and I can’t wait to meet him and add him to our family (Fingers crossed our current Shepard feels the same way!).

Over coffee, I would share that one of my goals for this year is to make more time for reading and so far so good. One of my latest reads was The First Lie Wins — oh so good! It’s face-paced thriller that will keep you guessing right to the end. If you haven’t read it, I’d encourage you to add it to your list.

OK, your turn, what would you tell me over coffee?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Ultimate coffee date

July Coffee Chat – Book Edition

July Coffee Chat – Book Edition

A Couple of June Runfessions

A Couple of June Runfessions

Five Key Stretches for Runners and Walkers

Fit Five Friday – Five Key Stretches for Runners and Walkers

Catching Up Over June Coffee

Catching Up Over June Coffee

From Recovery to Running — 5 Essentials I’m Leaning On

Fit Five Friday: From Recovery to Running — 5 Essentials I’m Leaning On

Fit Five Friday: Five Ways to Nourish Your Mental Health

Fit Five Friday: Five Ways to Nourish Your Mental Health

May Coffee Chat

May Coffee Chat

Sharing a Couple of April Runfessions

Sharing a Couple of April Runfessions

Fit Five Friday: KURU Atom Fusion Review

April Coffee Catch Up

April Coffee Catch Up

Hi, I’m Michelle

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