We’ve been lucky this winter with mostly mild weather. Sure, Rochester had a huge snowstorm last week, a storm that brought 19 inches to my yard and the typically hearty community to its knees for about 24 hours.

So true cold-weather running has been pretty much non-existent for me this season. That said, there are always a few thoughts that zip through my mind when I hit the pavement amid snow and subzero temps.

It was bitter cold when pal Beth and I ran a winter half-marathon last year. Subzero temps had us bundle up and we were still darn chilly by the time we finished.

Here are just a few random winter running thoughts:

• I can’t feel my fingers. I should’ve worn more clothing. (This usually occurs within the first half-mile.)
• Did my water bottle just freeze? Why yes, I am now carrying a 5-pound ice weight.
• None of what I am wearing matches, but it’s all bright neon. Notice me, oncoming cars. I’m a beacon of color.
• Sidewalk? What sidewalk?
• Aim for the bald patches in the road. Anything not to wear spikes when not snow/trail running.
• Perhaps the treadmill would’ve been a good idea today.
• I’m melting. I should’ve worn fewer layers. (about 3 to 5 miles in.)

Wintry run!

I love winter running, actually. In part because I feel like a badass for braving elements that send many inside for a warmer workout.

And there was a time that a passerby asked me how much I was being paid to run in the snow. (Ha! Wouldn’t that be nice?)

But there are challenges.

Sometimes a 5-mile tromp through fresh snow equals the effort for a 10-miler on a crisp fall day. Sometimes you find yourself on a busy road’s shoulder because the icy, unplowed sidewalk is downright treacherous. Occasionally, you have to jump into a snowdrift and out of the path of an oncoming snowplow.

No matter the obstacle, I always feel great once I am done. It’s always well worth the bitter cold effort.

What runs through your mind when you run in the snow?