Cougars and Coffee

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Seriously how do I find myself in OCTOBER already?? Time is most certainly a thief. Before more time slips away, I’m taking a moment to sit down with Deborah, Coco and you for a little catch-up session. I’m sipping on a nice hot cup of Hokie Blend coffee with some Great Lakes Wellness Collagen (try some with my discount here) mixed in. It’s been part of my morning routine since I don’t know when.

Cougars and Coffee

Over coffee I’d tell you I’ve had not one, not two, but THREE….um….large cat sightings here. The first time a large feline ran across the trail maybe 30 feet ahead of me. I thought I was crazy and pretty much dismissed it.
The second time I was out in our neighborhood with the dogs and a “large cat” again crossed in front of us and disappeared between the houses. My neighbor witnessed this as well and confirmed I am not crazy. Well mostly not crazy.
Then, just the other day, the Caveman and I were in our driveway heading out on one of our daily walks when another LARGE CAT came out of the bushes along our driveway and slunk away across the street. This cat is at least 60 pounds and has a long tail, which removes the possibility of it being a Bobcat. Further discussion with my neighbors determined that it is indeed a COUGAR, aka MOUNTAIN LION. Let that sink in for a minute. Cougars in the Chicago suburbs. I guess I need to be very VERY careful with my little dogs…and myself for that matter.

Over coffee I’d ask how you’re staying active. Since running is not (yet) an option for me, I’ve been leaning hard into strength training, as well as our twice daily walks. Monty recently learned how to go down the basement stairs so I get the “bonus” of having not one but two canine coaches in the Pain Cave with me.

Romeo is happy to spectate from his perch on the treadmill.

Life is a perpetual game of fetch for Monty. Try getting a workout done while throwing a ball or bone every 30 seconds. This is my life. Ha!

Over coffee I’d ask if you have any travel coming up. I am excited to be headed to Blacksburg in just a couple of weeks to visit our daughter at college. Virginia Tech will be playing Georgia Tech so our Georgia Tech alum will be there rooting for her team as well. I can’t freaking wait to see them both!

Over coffee I’d tell you I am ALL IN for cozy season! While I do love summer, I like to make the most of these “-ber” months. They can be festive, after all, if we don’t get overwhelmed. It’s cooled down significantly here already, and looking at next week’s forecast, it even looks like the old furnace may need to be turned on.

That said, I am IN LOVE with the Loft 2 slippers from Kuru! Not only are they comfy and cozy, they have the same magical, mystical cushioning from heel to toe that Kuru’s athletic shoes are known for. They’re perfect for a slow coffee morning or a recovery day after a long run or long hours on your feet. They’re also a great gift idea for those “tough to buy for” people on your list, just saying.

Speaking of the holidays, I’d ask you if you’ve got a jump on any holiday shopping. I’ve actually picked up a few stocking stuffers. I figured it’s easier to grab it when I see it. Who even am I??

What would you tell me over coffee? Are you all in for fall? Still clinging to warm weather?