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2026 Race of Hope 5k Race Recap

This was NOT a planned race.

I had planned to sign for a half marathon in Ft. Lauderdale on Feb. 15.

But I surprisingly got into the NYC Half Marathon and it was a week before my race-cation to run the Asheville Half Marathon.

With TWO half marathons in March, I decided not run one in February.

But could I go on a vacation without a race scheduled?

Nope. So I signed up for Race For Hope 5k because:

  • A race.
  • (Only) a 5k.
  • It wasn’t too far from where I was staying in Florida.
  • The course was described as scenic (running along the water) and flat.
  • It raised money for an important charity. (depression research)
  • I had hoped to plan a meet-up after with two former co-workers.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations: 

If you follow my posts, you also know that I had started running again after being sidelined with bronchitis. And the weather has been horribly cold, windy and snowy.

In hindsight, a long run in preparation for my half marathon would have been more beneficial but I had already registered for this race before I got sick.

I arrived in Florida on Wednesday. After viewing the sunrise, the weather was perfect for a short run on Thursday and on Friday.

So delightful to not have to run with a coat on!! You Fkorida runners are so lucky.

Race Description:

Join the Race of Hope crew at the 5k (3.1 mile) run/walk through tranquil neighborhoods and along the beautiful water views of Palm Beach, FL. Participants from across Florida and beyond unite as a community to raise awareness about the fight to defeat depression. This race was built to please professional runners to first-time race walkers. Gather your friends, family, corporate team, and favorite racers for an incredible event for a life-saving cause.

The first 1100 race participants to pick up their packet will receive a race pullover jacket, hat, and shirt. All racers will earn a huge finisher medal at the finish line. 

Although the race sounded like fun, truthfully I was on vacation and it was very tempting to sleep in and hang out with my friends.

But I had made brunch plans for after so there was extra motivation to run the race.

Race Day:

As I always do, I brought my race day breakfast from home: oatmeal.  I was up at 5:30 am in order to be ready to leave by 6:15 am. The race started at 8:00 am and it was about a 30 min drive there. I wanted to get there early in order to find parking and pick up my race packet.

I didn’t even check the weather. I just put on a shirt and skirt with compression socks. I had opted for a red outfit since the race was held on Feb 14, Valentine’s Day.

I had no problems at all getting a parking spot near Bradley Park where the race began.  The parking was even free until 9 am.

You entered the park and you were greeted by enthusiastic volunteers.

I immediately headed to get my race packet. I was surprised when they handed me a bag and it included ALL the swag plus my bib.

best swag ever

There were booths representing organizations that supported depression research.  Many had food or freebies.

There was even a place to relax before the race.

Real restrooms in addition to porta-potties were another perk.

Eventually I retuned to my car to drop off my jacket and shirt.  I decided to wear the race cap and glasses to add some yellow to my outfit.

It was still early so I relaxed by the water until it was time to head to the start.

 

start line when I arrived

There were close to 1,000 participants (fewer than usual I guess) and many were walkers.  There were signs where to stand based on your predicted finish time.

I laughed when I saw that my time would be “fast”

While waiting, I saw a runner wearing a NYC Marathon tank… Of course, we struck up a conversation and became instant friends. She explained that she would be slow because she was undergoing  chemo. (Her slow would have been a PR for me…)

I had no pace for the race.  I knew that I would start out fast, run as long as I could and then walk whenever I was tired.

those glasses were too big and kept falling down the whole race….

I would have loved to finish sub 30 but it’s been a while since I’ve been able to do that and with no speed work and these warm temps, I would be happy to cross that finish line.

And that’s exactly what happened.

I ran the first mile without stopping.  There was a water stop and I was happy about that.

I slowed down during mile 2 and started my walks.

The course was flat and scenic as advertised.

All along the course were signs about depression:

I’m sure that I walked even more during the last mile and stopped at the 2nd water stop. It was warm and sunny and I was wishing that I had worn a tank top and no compression calf sleeves.

I crossed the finish line smiling…got a bottle of water and then my medal.

Post Race Activities:

My new friend Dolores was waiting for me so we took some pics and friended each other on FB.

As I mentioned above, I was meeting old friends at a nearby diner for brunch.

I quickly checked the results.

2nd in my AG

The awards ceremony wasn’t until 9:30 am and my free parking expired at 9 am so I left.

another medal that I don’t need anyway

Additional Race Reflections:

I have to say that this was my 2nd Florida 5k.  And I am so impressed with the organization of their races.

I’m pretty sure if I can, I will run this race again next year.

The Good:

  • Easy packet pick-up.
  • Pre-race emails with instructions and maps.
  • Lots of freebies.
  • Great swag – cap, glasses, wind breaker, shirt…
  • Real bathrooms at the start/finish area.
  • Two water stops along the course.
  • Well marked course.
  • Timing clocks at each mile.
  • A looped course so no repeat views.
  • Water views most of the whole race.
  • A great variety of pre and post race snacks.
  • Nice medal.
  • Friendly volunteers and runners.
  • Awards announced for top 3 as well as 5 year age group awards.
  • 100% given to this important charity – depression research
  • Great weather (sunny and not too hot)
  • No back or foot pain.

The Bad:

  • Medals as age group awards
  • My positive split pace.

The Ugly:

  • Nothing

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.  For all the reasons above.

Final Stats:

 

Next Up:

United Airlines NYC Half-Marathon - New York, NY - 3/17/2024 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

Happy Running! Do you race while on vacation? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

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Weekly Run Down for 2.8.26-2.14.26 and 2.15.26-2.22.26: So Nice to Escape to a Warmer Climate

Well, that went fast!

My long awaited warm weather vacation came and went and now I’m back in the frigid snowy Northeast.

Two Weeks Ago –

  • Sunday – The race that I signed up for got cancelled.

Even so, I wasn’t sure that I would run it.  My plan was to do a long run of 10 miles the day before. With temps of 10 degrees and 50 mph wind gusts that didn’t happen either.

So today, the weather wasn’t much better so after a visit to the gym, I spent the day getting ready for my vacation (cooking meals for the hubby, laundry, packing, etc.) and watching the Olympics (hooray for USA gold in team figure skating)

And also met my BFF for a chat and walk around the mall.

  • Monday –  I only worked from home in the morning.

I had a chiro appt at lunch time (my lower back had been achy when I run).

Afterward, I met my friend Jenny for a run. I needed to get in my 10 mile long run (that I skipped over the weekend) and she was kind enough to support me…

the anniversary Starbucks cup!!

It had finally warmed up to double digits but boy was this run a struggle… My legs felt like lead and I just couldn’t get going (Thank goodness  for run walk intervals)

In the evening, I stopped by to visit my granddaughter to give her some Valentine’s Day gifts (all clothes LOL)

her latest prof. pic.

  • Tuesday – Another WFH day. Gym before work

matchy matchy at the gym and my 2 cats caught licking each other’s faces…

and I was able to squeeze in a run at lunch with Jenny. No sun today and snow on the way… unfortunately my lower back pain returned and this run was meh…

After work, I had a hair appt and then I had to finish packing and try to go to bed early.

  • Wednesday – An early morning flight to West Palm, FL (with a long lay over in CTL).

After I arrived, I picked up my rental car and drove to Delray Beach where I was staying for 3 nights.

As we always do, my friend Fonda and I visit a local bird sanctuary and then go out for dinner.

so many neat birds, many nests and even babies being fed…

  • Thursday – I dragged myself out of bed and drove to the ocean to see my first ocean sunrise (and it was so worth it). I had free parking along the water so I went for a run/walk.

just perfect today!!

The weather was ideal for the beach so that’s where we spent the afternoon…

sunny and 80 degrees!!!!! in my happy place…

until I had a scheduled blogger meet up with Jenny and Debbie at the same bird sanctuary as I visited the day before. We had a great time chatting and Debbie’s husband took some amazing photos.

blogger meet-ups are the best!!

In the evening we had dinner in town and caught part of an outdoor concert (Journey tribute band).

  • Friday – The morning was a repeat of the day before

love my morning routine!!

followed by a visit to a different bird sanctuary (Fonda was busy all day.)

more birds, turtles and even an alligator!!

I was killing time because I wanted to visit Gumbo Limbo (when Cari’s mom was there). No parking so I planned it for a later day.

Instead I spent time relaxing at the pool until it was tme to have our farewell dinner and prepare for my race the next morning.

  • Saturday – Race of Hope 5k. A new race for me and also meant an early wake up to drive to West Palm for the race.

This was my 2nd Florida 5k and boy do they do it right. Everything worked out so perfectly that I want to run again next year.

lots of swag, made a new NYC friend and came in 2nd in my AG…

After the race, I met some old friends for brunch nearby (we taught together in the ’80s)

Then I headed with Debbie (the one in the middle above) to see some manatees…

before I finally headed back to Delray Beach and to stay with another friend Laurie.

It was still early so we went to the pool.

That evening we had tickets to see the Legends tennis tournament.

famous retired players playing some entertaining doubles matches…

Yup, a long day and I was pooped.

  • Sunday –  I slept in and had breakfast with Laurie instead of driving to see the sunrise.

We spent the day in West Palm Beach attending a Greek food and wine festival. Afterward we strolled through City Place.

Back in Delray, we went out to a fun dinner and walked around downtown.

Last Week –

  • Monday –  Back to my early wake up to catch the sunrise on the ocean. Unfortunately it rained just when the sun was coming up. The rain didn’t last long and I was able to get some running done.

Afterward I got in my visit to Gumbo Limbo to see the turtles and climb the new tower.

and a rainbow when at the top of the tower…

Next stop was to my third hostess Barbara in Boca Raton.

It was my second beach day and it was just perfect.

In the evening we had a college reunion with Ronnie (we all went to France together in the 70’s) at a restaurant in Deerfield Beach.

  • Tuesday – It was cloudy but a cloudy beach sunrise is better than staying in bed, right?

Today instead of a run, I went on a very long walk on a path that bordered the beach.

It was Mardi Gras and so we made plans to meet up with another college friend Gene at a Cajun restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. Afterward we walked around Las Olas.

The evening was low key as we were both tired.

  • Wednesday – My last day in Florida and my second Boca Raton sunrise…

Again it was cloudy but so beautiful.

I left early for my drive back to West Palm Beach to catch my flights home.

No snafus. (The predicted snowstorm never materialized.)

  • Thursday – I had taken the day off just in case I had flight issues.  Even though I did not, I decided not to work.

I started the day at the gym, followed by errands, unpacking, laundry….

A bigger snowstorm was predicted for Friday and Saturday..

So I enlisted my friend Jenny to accompany on my long run… The temps were great (35 degrees!!)

I got in 11 run/walk/run miles… it wasn’t pretty but it’s done!!

Jenny noticed that I was wearing 2 different shoes… the funny thing is that I wore the same ones on my last run too. LOL

In the evening, I met my BFF for a walk and chat in the mall (she is headed to Fla next week…)

  • Friday – Again I went to the gym before work…

with more snow on the way…

Mah jongg was cancelled due to the snowstorm.

  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. We all met for brunch and did our needed miles at various paces .

Although I had already done my long run the day before, I accompanied Deb on her 6 miles at UAlbany.

Somehow I got motivated to declutter… 4 garbage bags of useless race shirts!

  • Sunday – The gym and maybe a run since another snowstorm is on the way tonight!!!!

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run?, granddaughter visit
  • Tuesday – gym, tennis dinner
  • Wednesday – PT appt, run
  • Thursday –  run, STEM board mtg
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch, teacher reunion brunch
  • Sunday – gym

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Race of Hope 5k Race Recap
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s your weather? Any warm weather vacations planned? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

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FFF: 5 Fitness Habits that Stick (even when it’s cold)

Just because it's cold outside 🥶 doesn't mean you have to skip your workout! Adapt your workout routine to and stay motivated with these tips: 💪 Set specific goals and track progress

Yes, it’s been a colder than usual winter so far and it’s tempting to just hibernate…

Here are 5 ways to stay fit:

1.Work Out

I don’t have home equipment so I have to go to the gym… luckily it’s not a long drive and I try to go several mornings a week.

If you belong to a gym, you can take class or use the weights/machines.

If you have the Peloton app, you have many additional options.

2.  Walk

When the temps are sub zero and the roads are icy, I get my walk done at the mall.  We have two to choose from.

Crossgates Mall reopens with mask requirement

Crossgates Mall

3.  Run or Bike Inside

Definitely not my preference but you can use a treadmill or an indoor track to get some miles in.

You can mix it up with some stationary biking.

4. Run or Walk Outside

Dress appropriately.. (I even bought rechargeable hand warmers.)

Choose path or roads that are not slippery. Our college has a clear and salted path which is great and it is lit up at night.

Recruit a friend or two.

5. Stay away from those unhealthy snacks.

When it’s cold, comfort food (baked goods, etc) may be calling your name.

Especially when it’s cold, you may be spending more time indoors – watching TV, reading, etc.

I just can’t have that stuff in the house.

Instead, I make sure there is something healthy to munch on in the house… (cheese, nuts, fruit, yogurt, veggies…)

29 Healthy Snacks That Can Help You Lose Weight – Cassius

Happy Running! How do you stay fit in the winter? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, and Runs with Pugs

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.


You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

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2026 Winter Series Race Recaps

As I have mentioned in previous years, the Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsors FREE races throughout the winter for its members. The course is pretty boring but free is free. Usually, I try to run 4 of the races and volunteer at one. That gives you Winter Warrior status and a prize. Although I signed up for all FIVE, unfortunately, I had to miss several of them this year.

Winter Series #1 – 12/14/26

In Florida, on vacation so I had to miss this one.

Winter Series #2 – 1/1/26

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This week, there was a choice of a 3.5m race or a half marathon.  I had run the half marathon one year and it was deadly (4 loops!!)

The weather lately has been a challenge – snow, cold, ice, rain…

I skipped Monday and Wednesday’s runs but did get in a short run on Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday…

I went out to dinner with the family for New Year’s Eve but we got home early… (I did have several drinks…)

Race Day:

I’ve run this race many times because it’s a great way to start the year.

I was happy that it did not start until noon. But when I looked at the weather, I really thought twice about going.

I wondered if any crazy people would actually run in these frigid conditions.

I arrived around 11:15 and signed in. I was greeted by so many familiar faces and more than I had expected. I bet there were at least 250 runners.

still representing Skirt Sports!

Some even dressed up…

We all chatted about how cold it was. What we would come to find out and that the wind was insane… gusts up to 40 mph!!

Since I’ve done this race so many times,  I didn’t look at the map.

Hangover_Half-002-L

Elevation according to my Garmin:

there are some hills but nothing huge

We waited indoors until the last minute to brave the cold…

And then we shivered while the RD gave directions (and it felt like forever).  I already wished that I had dressed warmer and had hand warmers!!

Finally we started (no start line) and I was pretty far back since I wasn’t sure what I’d be doing?  Running? Walk/Running? (Freezing to death? LOL)

Although there was both a 3.5 miler and half marathon, all runners started at the same time and location.

Shortly after we started running, we had to either turn left or right (depending on which distance you chose).

Last year, I wasn’t paying attention and went the WRONG way!!  This way, I made sure I did not.

As you can see, the race was just one loop of the state office campus.

Here are some photos from the race (none of me…):

It was cold. I was cold and the wind made it hard to move forward at times.  And it seemed to get windier as the race went on (boy, was I glad I didn’t decide to run 13.1 miles!!)

Normally, I run and walk when I get tired.  But I just wanted to get out of the cold.  I RAN THE WHOLE THING!

I know, that’s odd for me.  I have to say that it was a struggle and I never felt like I was able to move fast.

For the most part, runners were passing me by and I was often running alone. I couldn’t feel my face, my hands or my toes!!

Eventually I did get to the end. The slipperiest part of the course was at the finish line and so my sprint wasn’t much of a sprint.

There was a clock and they called out times but you recorded your own time on a piece of paper.

I just looked at my Garmin and wrote down the time it said (which may not have been accurate)

and I forgot to stop my watch

I waited for some friends …

and some friends had waited for me.

Post Race:

We all went in to get something to eat.  There was the usual delicious soup, lots of homemade snacks, fruit and coffee and hot cocoa. That hot soup really hit the spot!!

We were waiting for the  awards. Carolyn (in white) and I were in the same age group and we came in 1st and 2nd.

But all of a sudden, the lights went out and the fire alarm went off.  They made us leave the building.

It was way too cold outside to wait around so we all left (and missed our awards – coupon for a free loaf of bread.)

Final Stats:

 looking at the results, my time was probably 38:02 (GT)

Initially, I was a little disappointed with how slow I ran compared to in this race a few years ago. But I was really proud that I ran the whole thing and that I showed up.

It’s all good!! I had fun and that’s the most important part of running.

I ran again two days later there without the wind.  What a difference!!

Winter Series #3 – 1/11/26 

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This week, there were 3 choices: 3.5m, 10k or 25K.

My March half marathon plan hadn’t really started yet but I usually run 6-8 miles on the weekend.

I did my usual short runs during the work week.

However, the day before, I spent the day in NYC with a college friend  (so NO long run).

I think we did walk like 8 miles

Race Day:

Although I got home very late the night before, this race didn’t start until 10 am.

And the weather seemed perfect – sunny, little breeze and 40 degrees.  So much better than the last race. And the rain the day before had washed away most of our snow.

I was contemplating switching from the 3.5 miler to the 10k but hesitated.

I did park in the far parking lot so I could park to and from the race start and/or do additional loop after the race.

It was a moot point because I had actually registered for the 10k (not the 3.5).  I could have switched but I decided that it was a sign to run the longer distance.

Due to the improved weather conditions, there was a much bigger crowd than the last race.

I was able to catch up with a lot of runners that I hadn’t seen in a while.

Some of my friends ran the shorter distance but most ran the 10k like I did.

All of the runners started at the same time, but immediately the 25kers went left and the other two distances went right.

As you can see from the map above, the 10k was basically an inner loop and then an outer loop.  I may have started my watch late (as there’s no start line) and ran all the tangents so at the end, my watch registered the distance short.

in the crowd somewhere…

I am slower than all of my friends but one who ran the 10k.  We started together and they just got farther ahead.  In these races, usually the fastest runners run the longest distance and the slowest the shortest.  I think the 25k runners looped me a few times.

Anyway, I ran the race in a similar fashion to the last one.  I didn’t use intervals but ran continuously. But, of course, after 3 miles I tired and got slower and so the second half of the race I walked whenever I felt like it.

looks like I was alone LOL

When the breeze was at my back, I was sweating (unzipped my jacket and took off my gloves) and but at times, it was chilly.  (Some of the long distance runners were even wearing shorts…)

lagging behind …

Eventually I crossed the finish line…

It was warmer than last time so more runners were still waiting for their friends.

After Linda crossed, I went inside with the others.

Post Race:

Same refreshments as the week before but different type of soup…

my partner in crime Heidi (she ran the 3.5)

No fire drill this week so we waited around for awards.

check out how much faster Carolyn was…

Again Carolyn took 1sr place and I 2nd (for the second race in a row).

 

And they gave us both last race and this race’s awards.

Final Stats:

 a whole lot of walking going on the 2nd half of the race…

Although, my pace was way slower than I used to run these races, without the wind gusts, my total pace for 10k was a little faster than the 3.5 miler. Gotta find the positives….

Winter Series #4 – 1/26/26 (postponed to 2/1/26)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Three choices again this week: 3.5m, 15k or 30k

I had signed up for the shortest distance but until I got sick, I was planning to challenge myself and run the 15k.

I minimally got outdoors for some slow run walks (lots of sniffling and coughing involved).

Then with sub zero temps predicted and a huge snowstorm looming, the race was CANCELLED!!

It was re-scheduled for a week later.

Unfortunately, I had registered for a 10k in NYC that day. But due to being sick for several weeks, I decided to stay home and cancelled my trip to NYC.

didn’t need to cancel … NYRR did it for me…

That meant I was available to run this race. Not the 15k as I hoped and even the 3.5m was doubtful as I had not been running much.

After a few days of antibiotics, I felt so much better. I even got out to run two evenings in the freezing cold.

It was still so cold but the sun was shining on Saturday. So I drove to UAlbany and ran a loop (3m) and then my friend Deb came ands we ran 2 more loops (using very a slow run walk).

Race Day:

Freezing and very windy.  After running 9 miles the day before, I decided to sit this one out.

Instead I went to gym.

my friends volunteered inside

I am usually pretty tough when it comes to winter weather but this cold spell was wearing me down.

they look cold to me…

I also didn’t want to risk an overuse injury with two big races coming up in March.

Winter Series #5 – 2/8/26

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Last one of the season and three choices again this week: 3.5m, 10m or 20m.

I had signed up for the shortest distance as in all the others.  But the 10 miler would have been better since I was leaving for Florida in a few days and only running a 5k on the weekend.  My training for the March 15 NYC Half was falling far behind.

However, would 10 miles be too much?  Would I be out in the cold too long?

Nevertheless, I got my 3 short weekday runs in just in case:

Again, the weather Gods made my decision for me

It is re-scheduled for Feb. 15 but I’ll be in Florida.

Additional Race Reflections:

I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity.  The races are fun but if you want to take them seriously, you can.  And with the longer distances offered, you could use them as training runs for a half or full marathon.

And then there’s the camaraderie of the local runners and free food!

Win Win for the HMRRC Winter Series!

Positives:

  • Ample parking.
  • Well marked course.
  • FREE if you are a member of HMRRC. $5 if not
  • Indoor restrooms
  • Warm place to congregate before and after
  • Several distances to choose from.
  • Many familiar faces.
  • Awards – gift certificate for Bountiful Bread
  • Post race refreshments – delicious soup, snacks, cookies, hot chocolate, coffee and more
  • Free Photos

Negatives:

  • Self reported finish times (sometimes I forget to look at the clock or start my watch)
  • 10 year age group awards and only 2 deep.
  • Usually windy.
  • Boring course.
  • Several loops if running more than 3 miles.

Would I recommend these races?

Absolutely. Great way to stay active during the cold winter months.

Happy Running! Have you run any races in 2026 yet? Any races on your schedule? How do you stay motivated during the cold weather? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

 

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FFF: Top Memories from 2016

Three Trends that Will Transform Your Accounting Practice in 2016

It seems that everyone has been posting about 2016.

I have to say that it was not one of my better years.

I got laid off from a job that I loved and was unemployed for 3 months.  I did get another job that I currently have (but don’t love.)

Don’t get me started on the Presidential election…

But let’s focus on the good stuff…

  • Blogger Meet-up and Half Marathon in Panama City Fl.

  • Successful Coaching STEM Session and 5k

  • Dash to the Finish 5k in NYC with my Russian friend Anna and two of her friends

  • Hiking in the mountains near Lake George

  • Taking a Running Tour of Central Park, NY

  • Lots of time at our marina and on Lake George

  • Meeting the Mayor at the Freihofer Race for Women

  • Completing VCM Relay with my good friend (the late Andrea Halnon)

  • Winning my first Pie

  • Bus Trip to the Celebrate Life Half Marathon

  • A Half Marathon in Florida in March (where I froze)

  • I had the highest annual total of running miles!!

Happy Running! What are your favorite memories from 2016? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, and Runs with Pugs

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

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TT: Staying Active During Vacation

As you are probably aware, I leave tomorrow for a week in Florida visiting friends.

It’s been a rough 2026 so far.  It’s been super cold. We’ve had a lot of snow and I’ve been sick.

There’s nothing more tempting than to go on vacation and:

  • Sleep late
  • Sit in the sun (at the beach or pool)
  • Read
  • Go out to restaurants
  • Stay up late
  • Indulge on ice cream and fun drinks

Ahhh…

But you know me, I plan to stay active.

Here’s how:

  • Walking along the beach at sunrise.

It means getting up early but it so worth it.

  • Strolling through the various bird sanctuaries.

There are two in Delray Beach that I always visit each year: Green Cay and Wakodahatchee.

  • Running at the local preserves.

There are a few nearby and Jenny in the past has run with me on one of them

  • Walking to See New Sights.

There always new places nearby to visit…

  • Participating in  a Race.

Normally it’s a half marathon but sometimes (like this year) it’s a fun 5k.

Other options:

  • Working out at a gym.

My friends all live in communities where there is a gym.  This would only happen if it rains the whole vacation.

  • Playing tennis or pickleball.

Both are very popular (esp. pickleball). Two of my friends are active tennis players. Either could happen.

20140522-124140-45700219.jpg

  • Playing golf.

I also have two friends who are avid golfers.  It’s been years since I’ve played and I was awful (so this is doubtful.)

  • Swimming.

There are also pools where my friends live.  But my swimming consists of floating around with a noodle. lol

  • Biking
    • Also possible since my fronds have bikes but again not something I enjoy (if I can walk or run).

bike riding every morning around World Tennis Center

Happy Running! How do you stay active on vacation? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 2.1.26-2.8.26 – Baby, it’s cold outside…

Just trying to not freeze to death and get in some runs to train for my NYC Half on March 15.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – WS#4 (3.5m or 15k or 30k) – this was re-scheduled from the week before due to a snowstorm.  I had run 9 miles the day before and it was super cold and windy today.

Nope. I gave it a pass.

Instead I went to the gym… did lots of needed errands and then went out to dinner with my hubby and SIL to celebrate our anniversary (which had been on Jan 16.)

  • Monday – I had the day off.  My original plan was to hike with my friend Heidi.  Well, she was off vacationing in Mexico (lucky lady).

I went to the gym instead and I didn’t have to wake up super early to go.

ice ice baby

Then I met my friend Jenny for a “frigid” run.

sunny again but WINDY!! snow buddha?

Now that I was back to being healthy, I was able to stop by and visit with my granddaughter.

she’s the cutest though I may be biased…

On the way home, I was treated to a beautiful full moon…

the photo from my car on an iPhone didn’t do it justice…

  • Tuesday – Happy to report that it was another WFH week.

this is what I look like WFH (according to AI)

 I met Jenny for another run (same distance, different location) at lunch time.

not as cold and no wind but cloudy and damp… I quit after 3 mi but Jenny ran 15!!!

In the afternoon I went to the office to get some things done there.

Another dinner out… this time Indian food with two former co-workers.

  • Wednesday – Another gym morning (though it’s a struggle to get out on these cold days…)

when your headphones match your shirt…

And I did go out to eat (again!).  With my stepson (his early b-day gift).

  • Thursday – Another lunch run with Jenny trying to get out there before the big freeze… Same location as Tuesday but it was sunny today (and unfortunately windy).

In the evening, I got a walk done in the mall.

had to try the new Feb. flavor

  • Friday- It was a gym morning…

inspiration… bought these shoes in 2018 or 2019 before my first NYC half...

then cleaning  because mah jongg in the evening was at my house).

  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch.

My plan was to run 3 miles solo and then Deb would join me for 7 more.  Afterward, the others would join us for brunch.

Even I’m not this crazy…  The wind howled all night and it even snowed.

Plan B – Mall walk… (by the time I was done the temps had fallen to 1 degree!!)

lots of steps plus some retail therapy…

followed by a Soup Cook-off to support Ukraine (with a friend)

we tasted 13 soups (and had desserts)

  • Sunday – WS #5 (3.5m or 10m or 20m)? Nope!

After a trip to the gym, I’ll probably spend most of the day cooking and packing for my trip…probably getting a walk done in the mall

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  PM OFF – chiro appt, long run, granddaughter visit
  • Tuesday – Run, hair appt, finish packing
  • Wednesday – Flight to West Palm Beach, FL.  Pick up rental car and head to friend’s place in Delray Beach.  Bird watching before sunset, dinner on the water
  • Thursday – sunrise run? blogger meet-up?, beach, concert, ??
  • Friday -sunrise run? Gumbo Limbo, beach, ???
  • Saturday – Race of Hope 5k, brunch with old friends after in West Palm, Manatee Lagoon, move to a another friend’s place, Delray Open Legends tennis event
  • Sunday – sunrise run? Greek festival in West Palm?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Plans for an Active Vacation
  • Friday – Memories from 2016

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races?  How ‘s your winter weather? Planning any escapes to a warmer climate?  Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

by

Ultimate Coffee Date for February 2026

It’s that time of the month…

time to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that in case you haven’t noticed, I changed my blog header.

The photos from my previous headers were very dated… probably from back in 2010?

I used chatgpt.  Not sure I like it but it was so easy that I can update it as needed.

2. Over coffee… 

I’d tell you that I was scheduled to run THREE 10k races this winter.  Although I like 10ks, there aren’t many races for this distance. And running in NE is challenging due to weather conditions.

The first one was local on Jan 11.

The second was supposed to be on Feb. 1 in Central Park, NYC.

 

and the third March 7 is  local again.

March 2025 – snow squalls and wind gusts!!

While I was lamenting on missing the Manhattan 10k, I convinced my running friends to try to get into the NYC Mini 10k (on June 6.)

It was first come first served…. so I crossed my fingers that some of us would get in.

All 5 of us got in!!

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that as I’ve done every year, I have planned a week in Florida to visit friends and escape the cold temps of the NE.

More than ever, I need it this year.

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that although liked the medal and the course of the Publix Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon,

this year I chose a new race in West Palm.  It’s a 5k and it would take less prep, recovery and time away from my friends.

Thousands attend the Palm Beach 5k Race of Hope to Defeat Depression at Bradley Park February 15, 2025 in Palm Beach.

Definitely the right decision considering that I was sick for several weeks and would not have been ready to run 13.1 miles.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am training for TWO half marathons on back to back weekends in March.

I’m excited that my two local friends decided to join me for the NYC Half Marathon. (Though I’m very nervous that I am behind in my training miles…)

The second one in Asheville, NC will be just a fun one. I’m looking forward to visiting a new place.

Runners pass by the Biltmore House during the Asheville Marathon and Half-Marathon, held on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate early Sunday morning. The races took place simultaneously, with over a thousand runners taking part. Brent Schouler of Asheville; age 23, was the top male finisher in the full marathon with a time of 2:43:19. Deborah Downs of Watertown, MA; age 38, was the fastest female in the full marathon with a time of 3:19:14.5. -3-15-15 Colby Rabon (colbyrabon@gmail.com)

Any recommendations?  Biltmore  Estate?

Happy Running! What’s new with you?  Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, and Runs with Pugs

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

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TT: Self Love for February <3

Self-Love. What is it and how do we obtain it? – Lei Rhyne ...

THE TT TOPIC TODAY is Self-care check: how do you show yourself kindness this month?

Always a relevant topic but often we focus on family responsibilities, household chores, work deadlines, training plans and other stressors instead of ourselves.

I changed the topic slightly to Self Love.

Self Care, Self Love, and Love Languages — Hope For The Day

I plan to practice a lot this month:

  • Hair Love

That means color and cut (next Tuesday)…

I do not plan to let my hair go gray ever (no judgment)!!

  • Nail Love

I have ANC French on my fingernails… at all times. (Fortunately it lasts 5-6 wks.)

  • Social Love

Meeting friends for mah jongg, a drink, a walk, dinner or brunch…

  • Travel Love

Though my NYC weekend  trip had to be cancelled, I do plan on a week in Florida to see friends and ocean sunrises…

  • Flower Love

Try to have flowers from TJ’s in my kitchen. (They’re cheap and last for weeks…)

  • Food/Drink Love

A occasional treat from Starbucks

and a fun drink or two

Best 46 Thanksgiving Cocktails - Thanksgiving Drink Ideas

Of course, desserts…

img_8490

is it ever too cold for ice cream?

  • Fashion Love

I need to to de-clutter rather than buy something new… but you never know what I will add to my closet…

new sweater and pants in Dec… Check. New outfit for my Florida vacation???

Happy Running! How are you showing yourself kindness or love this month? Please share.

by

Weekly Run Down for 1.25.26-2.1.26: Not Heading to NYC for a Race!

Originally I was supposed to run a 15k on Sunday and then head to NYC yesterday to run a 10k in Central Park today.

Neither happened!!

Last Week –

  • Sunday – WS#4.  As I mentioned, I had registered for the 3.5 miler but I thought to challenge myself and change to the 15k.

That was before I got sick and those sub zero wind chill temps. I even considered skipping the race entirely.

Luckily the decision was made for me!!

If you read last week’s WRD, you know that my cold was not improving so I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with bronchitis and told not to run (esp. in the cold.)

So I stayed indoors and watching the snow fall…

 Loved this book. have you read it yet?

  • Monday -Yes, we were officially snowed in. Gym closed. Library closed. Even my hubby was off.

about a 1.5 ft of snow and 6 degrees wind chill

I was supposed to go into the office today but it was closed so I worked from home…

and signed up for a summer race… that’s what stir crazy runners do, right?

By the end of the day, I was feeling much better so I left my cocoon and drove to UAlbany to see how clear the paths were…

it was soooo cold!!!!! but it felt good to be outdoors for a change.

  • Tuesday – WFH.

 I had considered a lunch run but really too cold and nowhere nearby that wasn’t slippery…

Before meeting my BFF for a mall walk,, I went back to UAlbany for another frigid run…

pleasantly surprised on how much warmer it felt than the night before 🙂

  • Wednesday -Teaching ALL day online the next 3 days… so no time for much exercise.

After work, my monthly tennis dinner was scheduled and it’s always fun to chat up…

  • Thursday – WFH. I had plans to hit the gym before work but had too much to do.

Today after work, I had to double dip: Participate in the STEM zoom board meeting

and at the same time try to get into the NYC Mini 10k.

All 5 of us got in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

it was stressful..

Lucky us!

  • Friday- Just WFH AGAIN…I didn’t even want to go outside..

this morning…(:

but I did go back to playing mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – I was sad to not head to NYC.  I had a lot of pre-race activities planned but I think that I made the right decision.

Guess what?

I had the choice of deferring or getting a race credit. I picked the credit… not sure what I will use it for but I don’t want to be locked into this one next year.

Instead, I needed to get out and run…

 I drove to UAlbany and ran a loop.  Most of my friends were not around but I was lucky to have Deb as my running buddy for two additional loops around campus.

it was cold but the sunshine sure made a difference…

Having skipped both my 8 mile and 9 mile long runs, I am way behind in my half marathon training. But trying to build back slowly (and not get injured or freeze to death).

After our run, Deb and I enjoyed a leisurely brunch.

The rest of the day had me doing all the household chores and  errands that I had ignored being sick the past two weekends.

  • Sunday – WS#4 – 3.5m or 15k or 30k.  

I’m still on the fence whether or not I will run at all.  Definitely not the 15k.  If I feel good and the weather is good, I may run/walk the 3.5m.

In the evening, the hubby and I may get out to celebrate our anniversary (that was on Jan 16.)

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  DAY OFF – gym, run?
  • Tuesday – gym, walk, dinner w/old friend
  • Wednesday – run, b-day dinner w/stepson
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday –gym, mah jongg chez moi
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch (playing catch up so maybe 8 miles?)
  • Sunday – WS #5 – 3.5m or 10m

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Self Love
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races?  How ‘s your winter weather? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.