Category: Brian’s Journey

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Homemade Yogurt: Tasty, Cost-Effective, and Surprisingly Versatile

Written January 23, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade yogurt. Maybe it’s the velvety texture, the way it melts on the tongue without that artificial aftertaste or just the smug satisfaction of knowing we made it ourselves. Or maybe—just maybe—it’s the fact that yogurt prices have been creeping toward seven dollars a tub. At this point, it’s less of a grocery staple and more of a luxury item.

Luckily, my wife has mastered the art of making yogurt, and our fridge is rarely without it. She has a knack for balancing the flavor—less sweet than store-bought but not too tart. Some might call her a yogurt connoisseur. I just call her smart. Not only does she get to enjoy it exactly the way she likes, but we also save a decent chunk of change in the process.

Of course, homemade yogurt isn’t exactly instant. There’s a bit of patience involved. But thanks to our trusty Instant Pot, the process is almost effortless. We know exactly what goes into it—no artificial thickeners, preservatives, or questionable ingredients we can’t pronounce. Just milk, cultures, and time. The result? A creamy, probiotic-rich masterpiece that puts anything from the grocery store to shame.

The Creamy Secret: Straining for Perfection

My wife usually starts with a gallon of milk, allowing it to culture overnight before straining it to achieve a thick, luxurious consistency. This step is crucial. The difference between strained homemade yogurt and its store-bought counterpart is like comparing Greek yogurt to runny, watered-down pudding. The extra effort pays off, and the result is a yogurt so rich and creamy that it practically demands to be eaten straight off the spoon.

Despite making an entire gallon at a time, the yogurt never lasts long in our household. We use it for everything. My wife swears by it for gut health, and she’s meticulous about keeping her stomach happy. As for me? I’ve been getting a little experimental in the kitchen.

Yogurt: The Unsung Hero of Cooking

One of my recent discoveries is using yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in pasta sauce. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The slightly less tangy flavor doesn’t overpower the dish, but it still adds that perfect creamy consistency. Plus, eliminating sour cream from our fridge means one less ingredient to keep track of—streamlining the grocery list and saving space.

I suspect that smoothies will always be our primary yogurt-consuming activity. There’s just something about blending it with fresh fruit and a touch of honey that never gets old. But who knows? We might stumble upon even more creative uses that knock smoothies out of the top spot.

For now, I’ll keep experimenting, my wife will keep making batches of our creamy homemade yogurt, and we’ll both enjoy the satisfaction of dodging outrageous store prices. Because honestly, why pay seven dollars for something we can make even better at home?

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The Weather’s a Trickster, and So Is My Mind

Written January 20, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Today, Nashville has officially decided to test my limits. It’s the coldest day of the season so far, and yesterday, it even had the nerve to snow—just a little. But instead of sticking around like a proper winter scene, the snow pulled a vanishing act. Gone. No trace. Like it had second thoughts about being here, this left me with an internal debate: No snow means the roads are fine, so I should go run. But the air feels like it was imported straight from the Arctic, so maybe I should… not.

Cue the battle of wills. On one side, the rational me: You’ll feel great once you get going! Running in the cold builds character! Think of the endorphins! On the other side, the devil on my shoulder: It’s freezing. Your couch is warm. You could stay inside and drink something hot like a civilized person. The devil makes a compelling argument.

Nashville’s weather, I’ve realized, operates on its own chaotic logic. We don’t get those long, predictable seasons like in Portland, Oregon, where I used to live. Instead, we get extremes—either melting asphalt in summer or air that bites in winter. My body, thanks to an uncooperative autonomic nervous system, doesn’t adjust well. Before my brain stroke, I used to think my wife had the most finicky internal thermostat—too hot, too cold, too humid, too dry, never just right. Now? I am the reigning champion of temperature intolerance. The gold medalist of feeling the weather too much.

So, I compromised. Instead of heading out first thing in the morning like usual, I postponed my run. Maybe if I waited, the temperature would rise a little. Maybe the sun would be kind and throw me a few degrees of mercy. Spoiler: It won’t. Today is one of those days where the high temperature and the low temperature are essentially the same. In other words, cold now, cold later, cold forever.

Eventually, I’ll have to face the inevitable: bundling up like I’m about to summit Everest and forcing myself out the door. The plan is simple—hit my target pace for the first 5K, and I get to stop early. One hour in the cold, no more. If I don’t hit that pace? Well, then I’m stuck running the full 10K as punishment. My version of self-accountability: run fast or run more.

I know, logically, that once I start moving, the cold will be less of an issue. The first five minutes will be miserable, but then my body will adjust, and I’ll find my rhythm. I always do. The real challenge isn’t the temperature—it’s shutting up the part of my brain that keeps whispering excuses.

So, off I go. Because if I give in to the couch today, what’s stopping me from doing it tomorrow? And the next day? That’s how routines fall apart. That’s how discipline slips. And that’s not happening.

Not today, Devil.

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Freezing, Running, and My War on Winter

Written January 15, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Ah, procrastination—my old, frosty friend. Today, it’s teaming up with the weather as I wait for the thermometer to nudge just above freezing. Sure, it’ll still be cold, but freezing feels like the universal “nope” line. Good news? I don’t have to wait long. Bad news? My calves are staging a coup from Monday’s run, and my right knee is voicing its displeasure. But let’s be real. Neither is dramatic enough to get me out of today’s self-imposed “fun run.”

Speaking of fun, I’ve implemented a new policy: no hitting the target pace, no stopping early. Brilliant, right? Until you realize it means running longer than planned. Outside, the chill has zero festive charm—no snowflakes, no sparkly icicles, just a vast, icy wasteland that feels like nature’s walk-in freezer. I don’t remember it being this cold in the last five years here. Winter’s overachieving, and frankly, it’s rude.

Flashback to yesterday: I returned from my run absolutely frozen. Pro tip: while running does raise your body temperature, it apparently has limits. When the air is so cold that your body says, “You know what? Nope, you’re on your own,” it’s time to reevaluate life choices—or at least your wardrobe. My wife, ever the voice of reason, gently reminded me to wear a hat. Thankfully, I’ve got a winter headgear setup that would make Arctic explorers jealous. So, my ears are safe, even if the rest of me feels like a popsicle.

Now, I’m gearing up for today’s showdown. The plan? Beat my target pace in the first 5k and call it a day. If not, I’ll push to 10k because stubbornness is my superpower. It’s a tactical adjustment to keep me on track with my yearly distance goal while nudging my speed in the right direction. Realistically, most of my gains will come in the more cooperative seasons of spring and fall. But hey, winter’s a worthy nemesis, and I’m not backing down.

Here’s hoping today’s run brings a win—and maybe, just maybe, slightly warmer toes.

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Back on the Run: Making Peace with Snow, Chill, and My New Plan

Written January 13, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Finally, the sun decided to make an appearance, peeking out from its hiding spot behind the clouds! Yesterday’s snow melt was just enough to liberate the outdoors from its icy grip, and that means one thing—I’m back in action. The air still has that classic winter edge, but I’m more than ready to hit the pavement and reclaim my running routine.

This impromptu “rest period” brought on by cloudy skies and subzero vibes wasn’t exactly what I had in mind. Sure, rest days are important, but let’s be honest—this one wasn’t by choice. However, in my downtime, I did some thinking (and a bit of stewing) about how to make up for lost time and, ideally, how to avoid falling behind again. That’s when my new running policy took shape.

Here’s the plan: Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll focus on both speed and mileage. If I manage to beat my target pace during the first half of a run, I’ll reward myself by stopping after 5K. But if I miss the mark? It’s a second 5K for me. No excuses, no shortcuts. It’s a win-win: either I improve my speed, or I make up for the distance I’ve missed. Motivation, thy name is accountability!

Now, let’s talk about Midwest winters. Being from Indiana, I’m no stranger to snow. A few flakes? Not a big deal. But this cold snap feels a bit personal—like winter heard me planning my runs and decided to crank up the Arctic settings just to spite me. And, of course, everyone’s favorite weather topic comes up: climate change. Some experts are saying the unusually warm ocean temperatures are throwing weather patterns into chaos. Am I ready to blame the oceans for my frosty morning runs? Not quite. But it does make me wonder if my running routine will need a seasonal overhaul in the future.

Regardless of what’s happening with the planet’s thermostat, I’m sticking to what I can control: running smarter and gradually increasing my pace. If all goes well, I’ll be crushing my target pace so often that extra 10Ks become a rare punishment, not the norm. That’s the dream, anyway.

Until then, I’ll bundle up, hit the road, and keep pushing forward—even if the weather is unpredictable. My goals are crystal clear. Running is as much about mental endurance as it is about physical stamina, and this new plan is all about building both.

So, here’s to embracing the chill, setting ambitious goals, and turning unwanted rest days into opportunities to recalibrate. If nothing else, winter is proving to be a relentless teacher. But hey, if I can conquer icy mornings and double-run challenges, maybe the spring sunshine will feel that much sweeter when it finally sticks around. For now, though, it’s just me, my running shoes, and a lot of determination.

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From Stumbling Steps to Sore Legs: My 10K Running Journey

Written Jan 05, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

This year, I made a bold proclamation: I’d conquer the 10K run more frequently than last year. Lofty, isn’t it? Well, it sounded heroic at the time. My main goal? Shave some seconds off my pace and make my running app sing my praises.

Let me set the scene: halfway through today’s 10K, I realized I’d missed my target pace by just a few seconds. Naturally, I did what any mildly obsessive runner would do—I pushed myself like I was being chased by a very determined turtle. The result? I barely hit my goal pace, but hey, “barely” still counts!

Looking back, it’s wild to think how far I’ve come. When I first started running seriously about 7-8 years ago, just finishing a few kilometers felt like scaling Everest. Rewind even further, and you’ll find me relearning how to walk after a brain stroke. Fun fact: my brain remembered that walking was a thing, but it forgot how to send the memo to my legs. The first time I told my wife I wanted to try running, she probably imagined me face-planting spectacularly. Spoiler: she wasn’t entirely wrong—I did fall a few times. But bruises fade, and determination grows.

Fast-forward to 2018, when we moved into our current home. I was still a slowpoke. A 5-kilometer run felt like a marathon, but over time, it stopped feeling like torture. Then came the glorious leap to 10 kilometers. Now, here I am—trying to outrun my past self, armed with sheer grit and slightly sore legs.

Speaking of sore legs, they’re the price of today’s achievement. My reward? I felt general weariness and the smug satisfaction of knowing this was my second-fastest 10K on record. Not bad for someone who started by jogging a single kilometer like a wobbly giraffe.

My endgame this year is to smash that 9:00 min/kilometer barrier. Today’s effort brought me closer, but it also left me with legs that felt like overcooked noodles. Stretching to the rescue! My daily leg stretches after a plank session is now less a routine and more a survival strategy.

So, here’s to run faster, recover smarter, and celebrate every hard-earned second because every step—whether wobbly or swift—proves that I’m still moving forward.

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Snow Day Fitness Struggle and Challenges

Written January 10, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Snow day vibes are in full swing! The official news of school closures arrived this morning, and honestly, it felt like getting a surprise day off—a winter gift wrapped in frost. Outside, it’s snowing again, so my running shoes are sitting this one out. Our neighborhood, with its steep hills, is basically a snow-covered obstacle course right now, and I’d prefer not to star in my own accidental slapstick comedy. I already skipped Monday’s run, which triggered some minor guilt, but today’s weather is infinitely worse. Oh well—what’s done is done. I’m choosing to focus on the positives, like the promising forecast for next week. By next Saturday, it’s supposed to warm up to a balmy 50°F. Just imagine—no snow, no ice, and (hopefully) no excuses.

Now, let me entertain you with yesterday’s little home gym drama. The trusty planking platform, which has been part of our workout routine for over a year, decided it couldn’t take the pressure anymore and developed a charming crack. My immediate thought? Break out the super glue and duct tape—it’s basically the DIY version of “Hold my protein shake; I’ve got this.” However, my wife, ever the pragmatist, put a firm stop to my repair dreams. Her argument? Something about not wanting to risk a workout injury that could land us in physical therapy. Fair point. So, it looks like we’re shopping for a new planking platform soon. The old one has been semi-retired, and I’ve promised to say my goodbyes with grace.

In the meantime, today’s planking session had to happen the old-fashioned way—right on the floor. Let me tell you, switching to the bare floor brings an entirely different level of focus. It’s just you, the timer on your app, and the creeping realization that the seconds seem to stretch longer than usual when there’s no fancy gadget involved. Staying in the game without the platform was surprisingly tough. Who knew planking could turn into such a mental battle?

On the bright side, improvising my workout at home made me realize I don’t need all the bells and whistles to stay active, even if the process isn’t as smooth. Plus, there’s a certain charm to adapting and pushing through despite the odds—or at least that’s what I’m telling myself to feel better about today’s chaotic workout.

So, as the snow continues to fall, I’m trying to embrace this cozy pause while keeping one eye on the brighter days ahead. Here’s hoping for clear skies, clear roads, and fewer broken fitness gadgets in the near future.

Stay warm, stay active (even if it’s on the floor), and as always, stay fabulous!

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Snow, Soup, and a Slice of Life

Written January 12, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

The weather decided to warm up today, but the snow isn’t ready to bow out just yet. While there’s a solid chance it’ll melt away soon, the piles around here still make my wife a little wary of venturing out. Fingers crossed that tomorrow brings clearer roads and fewer icy surprises.

We skipped the grocery store run this week because of this snowy hiccup. That means no pre-packed meal kits from my wife, though she did lay out a game plan by picking recipes. The only catch? We’re missing a few ingredients, so I’ll need to play Chef Tetris with the menu. Luckily, I’ve made most of these meals often enough to wing it or pull off some creative swaps.

On the bright side, we’ve got frozen curry to save the day—or, in this case, the week. My wife, in her infinite meal-planning wisdom, froze it into neat little one-cup blocks and vacuum-sealed them like treasures. All it took was a quick pot of rice and voilà—curry and rice ready to go. Minimal effort, maximum comfort food.

Oh, and let’s not forget our trusty Sunday pizza tradition. It’s the highlight of the week, snow or no snow. Honestly, having a stash of homemade freezer meals and a little creativity in the kitchen makes weathering winter storms much easier (and tastier).

So, here’s to warmer days, clear roads, and always having a backup plan—preferably one that involves pizza.

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Snowfall in Tennessee: A Cozy Adventure

Written January 11, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Well, Tennessee surprised us with another snowfall yesterday, sprinkling about 4 inches of snow across the landscape. The weather’s been a bit colder than last week, so I’m guessing this snow might stick around for a while—perfect for those winter wonderland vibes, but not so much for practical living.

We’ve been calling Tennessee home for six years now, and snow here is practically an annual guest. My wife still delights in the fact that we don’t have to wield shovels against towering drifts like we did in Canada. Trust me; there’s a kind of peace in watching the snow pile up without worrying about clearing a driveway.

Now, here’s the kicker: snow and I have a bit of a love-hate relationship. While it’s picturesque, it’s also the culprit keeping me off my running schedule. I haven’t laced up my running shoes in a few days, and I’m starting to feel it—there’s something about the rhythm of running that I miss. I keep peeking out the window like a kid, hoping for a snow day (though, in this case, I’m praying for clearer paths). If conditions improve, I might just brave the cold for a quick jog. Fingers crossed!

As for errands? Forget it. Grocery shopping is on hold because some stores are closed and others are not. Well, I’m not about to risk slipping on icy roads for a bag of spinach. Luckily, we’re stocked up with plenty of staples: rice, chickpeas, beans, and vacuum-sealed meats. My wife, always the planner, portioned the meats perfectly to fit my kidney-friendly diet. While fresh veggies would be lovely, we’re not about to complain—this little snowy hiccup is our chance to make a dent in the pantry. How often do we prioritize eating those “almost expired but still good” preserved goods?

So, here we are—snowed in, slightly inconvenienced, but cozy and well-fed. Sometimes, life nudges you to slow down, embrace what you’ve got, and maybe get a bit creative with meal planning. If the snow clears up, great. If not, it’s just another day to enjoy the stillness of winter from the comfort of home.

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Brrr! Running Through Nashville’s Cold Snap

Written January 8, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Nashville has been freezing lately—like, “Did I accidentally teleport to Canada?” kind of cold. This winter feels like nature’s weird experiment with snowflakes and icy air. Honestly, the weather here has been so temperamental it could have its own reality show. And running in this cold? Let’s just say it’s not the exhilarating outdoor adventure Instagram makes it look like.

My body and cold weather have a complicated relationship, thanks in part to a brain stroke I had over a decade ago. Temperature regulation isn’t exactly my strong suit, so the chill seems to hit me harder. Even when I’m bundled up, I feel like the cold air finds its way in, leaving me shivering while my clothes scream, “We’re doing our best here!”

But hey, a goal’s a goal. I set out to stick to my running plan this year and wasn’t about to let a little subzero situation stop me. Monday’s frigid temperatures had already robbed me of a decent run, and I wasn’t letting the same thing happen again. So, out I went, braving what felt like Mother Nature’s ice bucket challenge.

Last year, my wife—bless her Canadian soul—got me this fantastic hood to keep my ears and neck warm. It’s been a game-changer in keeping frostbite at bay, but unfortunately, it’s not a full-body solution. My thermal pants, the ones that used to make me feel invincible in the cold, have seen better days. I’ve downgraded to lighter gear, which works most days in Nashville’s relatively mild winters. After all, it’s nothing compared to the frozen tundra my wife grew up in Canada. (Seriously, how do Canadians survive that?)

I started with a lofty idea: make up for lost mileage by running a 10k. Ambitious, right? But after about an hour of running in below-freezing temperatures, my toes started staging a rebellion, and my resolve melted faster than an ice cube in hot cocoa. I settled for 5 kilometers, which, let’s be honest, still felt like a victory in those conditions.

Now, I’m pinning my hopes on Friday. The forecast promises slightly warmer temperatures, but of course, there’s a catch—snow might make an appearance. So, my dreams of a longer run might have to wait. If it’s another day like today, I’ll probably clock another 5k and call it a win. After all, progress is progress, even if it’s wrapped in a few layers of thermal gear and powered by sheer stubbornness.

In the end, I’m just trying to stay moving and keep my goals alive, one frosty step at a time. Because, let’s face it, nothing feels quite as satisfying as a hot cup of coffee after a run in the cold—and that’s a reward worth running for.

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Snow Days in Nashville: To Run or Not to Run?

Written January 6, 2025

Hello Dear Readers,

Guess what? Nashville woke up to a winter wonderland today! My wife, the early bird that she is, returned from her morning run and casually dropped, “Oh, it’s snowing outside.” That’s how my day began. I had checked the forecast last night and already started dreading today’s run. Snow and ice might be picturesque, but they’re not exactly a runner’s best friends—unless you enjoy the risk of turning your jog into an impromptu figure skating routine.

Now, while I was contemplating excuses to skip my run, my wife, ever the snow enthusiast, was soaking up the magic outside. She adores the way snow transforms our backyard, which comes with its own tiny forest. Today, the trees wore a perfect frosting of snow, and I’ll admit, it looked straight out of a postcard. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate working from home. If we were still braving daily commutes, I doubt I’d find this snowfall quite so charming.

Still, snow isn’t all beauty and poetry. It’s also uncertain. The freezing cold? Manageable with layers. Slippery roads? A different story. I told myself I’d assess the situation after grabbing my second cup of coffee. If the roads look like an ice rink or snow continues to fall, I’ll declare it a no-run day. Safety first, right?

This isn’t my first snowy rodeo. A few years back, we had a massive snowstorm right around Christmas Eve. My wife and I decided to deliver little gifts to our neighbors, braving the icy sidewalks on foot. Even walking felt like a gamble. It was beautiful, yes, but also a reminder that winter weather demands respect—or at least sturdy boots.

Do I feel a twinge of guilt about skipping a run so early in the year? Of course. There’s a certain pressure that comes with January and all its shiny new resolutions. But let’s be realistic—falling and breaking something would mean missing out on way more runs, not to mention the general inconvenience of being injured. So, I’m calling it a strategic decision. One missed run now to avoid a month of no running? That’s a trade-off I can live with.

Besides, let’s not pretend I was leaping out of bed with enthusiasm this morning. The truth is, I was dreading this run even before the snow arrived. In a way, the weather gave me an excuse wrapped in a bow—or maybe a flake.

And hey, while I can’t control the weather (still waiting on that superpower), I can control my choices. Today’s choice? Enjoy the snowy view from indoors, savor another cup of coffee, and keep my bones intact for another day. To all my fellow runners—or fellow coffee drinkers—stay safe and cozy out there. Whether you’re braving the trails or embracing the couch, winter’s charm is best enjoyed on your terms.