September 22, 2026 by Darlene

2026 Run to the Rock Half Marathon Race Recap

Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY.

In 2020 and 2021, my friends and I rented a house for 3 nights in Hampton Beach, NH and ran a half marathon (among other fun shenanigans.)

It was so much fun that the next year, we rented in Old Orchard Beach, Maine and we ran the Portland Half Marathon or Marathon Relay.

Three years ago, we stayed in NYS and rented a house in the Finger Lakes Region. We all raced different distances (5k, 13.1, 18 mi) and enjoyed ourselves (despite some rain.)

Two years we had fun during our time on Cape Cod.

And last year, we traveled to Lake Placid, NY.

We rented a house in Plymouth, MA this year.

So I signed up for the Run to the Rock Half Marathon (HM #79) in Marshfield, MA for several reasons:

A race-cation.
Both Judy (who moved away) and Deirdre (who is moving away) would be able to go on this weekend.
My friends would be racing with me.
There was a 5k and 10k option in addition to a half marathon.
I was anxious to run the distance that I hadn’t run since April.

About the race:

Marshfield is the home of the famous Daniel Webster and his son Fletcher along with Edward, John and Josiah Winslow. It’s also had it’s share of fame from Steve Carell and sports figures from the NHL, NFL, MLB and MLS as well as a Kennedy.

The 5K is primarily a flat course that takes place around the school and a quiet neighborhood on an out and back course. The 10K will take you out towards the Pine Street area with a trip through a beautiful, low traffic neighborhood with just a couple of hills to allow you to use some different muscles along the way. The 1/2 Marathon will take you on an adventure into North Marshfield, up as far as the North River along Union Street. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jNiRnHzXAk

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week.

And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends or part of another race; This year, I had an additional challenge – sore right Achilles. Long runs: 8m, 10k, 10m, 11m, 12m, 5k

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

My taper consisted of 5k race and 3 short runs during the work week.

We carpooled and left for Massachusetts early on Friday morning. Our first stop was for lunch in Wakefield, MA (north of Boston) where one of our running friends had recently moved.

Next stop was race bib/shirt pick up in Marshfield, MA. Little did we realize how much traffic we’d hit through Boston and heading toward the Cape on a Friday afternoon. Hours later we did arrive and got our bibs/shirts

and then finally headed to our rental in Plymouth, MA.

After settling in, we walked into town for dinner. (Unfortunately we chose an Italian restaurant that did not have pizza – my go to pre-race meal!)

Finally #flatmes were organized and we headed to bed early (though I never can sleep the night before a race.)

Race Day:

And yes, not much sleep but happy to be racing that morning.

I had my usual coffee and oatmeal pre-race breakfast.

Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

If I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:30 and 2:45 (due to all the HILLS). Maybe even 3 hours if things didn’t go well.

The course:

Screenshot

it felt a lot worse that it looks here…

The race was held in Marshfield, MA at 8am. I ran the Half Marathon, 4 of my friends downgraded to the 10k, 2 to the 5k and 2 just cheered us all on.

There were about 250 runners in the half marathon which was the most popular of the 3 races.

We left at 6:45 am, arrived around 7:15 am and easily found parking. The race started and ended at a middle school. Those not running would arrive later to cheer us on at the finish line.

We quickly used the porta-potties (before long lines formed).

I took those arm sleeves off right away and carried then the whole race…

The weather was perfect – cool and sunny.

I really couldn’t give you a mile by mile update of the race. But I’ll recount what I do remember.

I followed my plan: walk/run/walk up the hill, sprint down it.

The problem was that it was un-ending uphills and not too many downhills.

That meant that I was walking a lot and more as the race went on.

All three races started at the same time so first there was a turn off for the 5k and then the 10k. The half marathoners continued on.

Besides all the hills, there were a few other issues with the course:

Traffic- the roads were open and often you had to run on the shoulder because cars were coming in both directions.
Course Marshals – not enough and so there were times where I wasn’t sure I was on the right road.
Not many slower runners – running alone at times and other times with 2 or three slower runners.
Mismarked course – apparently they missed a turn at mile 10 so we crossed the finish line at 12.6 miles.

The course was varied as when we turned around at mile 6.5, we didn’t return on the same roads until mile 10. That was nice.

There 7 water stops (many offered Gatorade) and I stopped at each one. I also took 2 salt chews before the race and ate 3 Gu during.

I was never really in pain during the race. My lower back ached slightly as did my neuroma but mostly I was running cautiously (trying not to upset my Achilles).

I had my Garmin set to show my mile pace but not my total time… I had no idea what my total running time was until I crossed the finish line (though I could tell by the split times that I was very slow).

As I approached the finish line, I spotted some of my friends (one even asked if I wanted her to run me in).

My calf started cramping and I wasn’t sure if I could run myself in…

But I ran as fast as I could… My friends were cheering loudly.

And the RD let us give our medals to our friends.

Barb giving Heidi her medal…

Deb gave me mine. That was a nice touch.

Post Race Activities:

I got my medal and some water. I wanted a banana but they were all gone! I grabbed some pretzels instead.

All my friends had already finished their races long ago. Two of them had won their age group.

70-99 – winner had nothing to worry about…

I checked and I came in 2nd in my AG.

happy finishers

happy cheerleaders

Additional Race Reflections:

It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.

In past years, I would have wanted a faster finish time…

I am competitive but I now know that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.

I felt fine after the race and the next day.

I insisted that I wanted to at least walk .5 miles more so I could complete a half marathon.

And we did much more…

Positives:

Part of a 4 day race-cation with friends.
Half marathon, 10k, 5k options.
Easy packet pick-up.
Gender-specific tech shirts
Friends cheering you on at the finish line.
Instant race results.
Nice medal provided to all runners.
Our friends giving us our medals.
Trophy to to award winners.
Adequate number of water stops.
Perfect weather.
Pretty scenery.
Plenty of parking.
20 minutes from our VRBO.

Negatives:

HILLS
Most of my friends decided not to race the half.
Course was SHORT!
Only 1st place AG awards for 5k and 10k.
Ran out of bananas.

Would I recommend this race?

Maybe. It was near Plymouth, MA and I enjoyed my visit there.

The fall in the NE is the best time to race.

Final Stats:

All in all, I was happy with my results. My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger.

There will be more half marathons in my future… Maybe I can improve. Maybe not.

I haven’t signed up for one until April 2027.

Next Up:

a local 10k

Happy Running! Have you run a fall race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Please share.

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

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

September 20, 2026 by Darlene

WRD for 9.11.26-9.20.26: Race-cation over…. Now What?

Does anyone feel letdown when you plan something for a year and then it’s over?

Last Week+- (Backtracking a little for more details on our trip)

Friday – We set out early in several cars for a our race-cation weekend. One of our running friends moved to Wakefield, MA (north of Boston) and so she invited us for a BBQ. It was a lovely way to start our vacation.

Next stop was race bib/shirt pick up in Marshfield, MA. Little did we realize how much traffic we’d hit through Boston and heading toward the Cape on a Friday afternoon.

Hours later we did arrive, got our bibs/shirts and finally headed to our rental in Plymouth, MA.

the house was built in 1766!!

After settling in, we walked into town for dinner. (Unfortunately we chose an Italian restaurant that did not have pizza – my go to pre-race meal!)

broke another rule, had wine!

I (and a few others) ended our travel day with a soak in the hot tub…

Saturday – Run to the Rock Race.

The race was held in Marshfield, MA at 8am. I ran the Half Marathon, 4 of us ran the 10k, 2 ran the 5k and 2 just cheered.

The weather was great but the course was so HILLY!!!

I struggled but did the best I could adding lots of uphill walks.

My biggest complaint was that the half course was mismarked and turned out to be .5 miles short!!!

But I won 2nd in my AG!!

After we returned home, some of us decided to walk into town to have lunch and explore some of the sights (Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II, etc).

Eventually that evening, we all went into town and had dinner on the water to celebrate our achievements (and friendships).

Again, the day ended with a soak in the hot tub…

Sunday – If you read my blog, you may remember that if possible when I travel, I get up early to see the sunrise. I was thrilled to have Heidi’s company and the view was totally worth it.

With rain in the forecast for later, we continued walking around town and even grabbed breakfast (and ate it in the gardens).

Sure enough, it rained… and most of the day … and HARD!!!

Luckily, we all brought umbrellas and walked into town, stopping at some shops and for lunch (to get out of the rain).

Nevertheless, we were all soaked!!

We had brought plenty of food and drinks so we spent the evening inside our rental.

Monday – The rain had stopped and of course, I needed to view my last water sunrise. It was again spectacular!

Many had to get home so after another walk around town (with Judy), Deb & I decided to go on a boat ride. I had thought of a whale watch but there was none on Monday so we went on a harbor tour instead. It was a gorgeous day and we learned a lot about the history of Plymouth.

And then I had a lobster roll and ice cream before having to get on our way.

Leaving wasn’t so easy because Deb’s car had a dead battery!! Fortunately, some guy had a portable charger and started her car. Phew!

Tuesday – Speaking of cars, I had dropped my car off at the dealer on Thursday thinking it would be fixed by today. Nope!!

Luckily I was WFH all week… but I did want to go to the gym before work.

I had to settle for a run around my neighborhood.

in the 40’s… not ready yet!

Wednesday – Still no car so I had to run near home…

a little warmer and sunnier today. Flowers still blooming but apples are getting ready for picking

Tonight was the first night of training the STEM runners for a Nov. 5k. As I did previous years, I signed up to mentor on Wednesday evenings.

Fortunately (or unfortunately), my car was not done but they agreed to give me a loaner.

we have a big group of participants this year … week 1= 60 min run/90 min walk)

Thursday – I had plans to go to the gym before work (but still catching obviously on my sleep from the weekend). Since I had a car, I planned to meet Jenny for a lunch walk. Nope. It got rained out. But later I did meet my BFF for a walk in the mall. Gotta get those steps in!
Friday- I dragged myself to the gym before work. WFH all day. Just mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – Long run and Brunch.

With half marathon over and my next long race being a 15k in November, my long run was not very long. I met up with Sherry on the rail trail and planned to up to run/walk 6 miles.

It didn’t go as planned but I got it done. Almost three miles in, Sherry fell, hit her head and cut her face. I ran (a mile) to Stewart’s and back to get her ice and a towel. Then we walked back and her boyfriend came to take her to urgent care. I quickly ran to meet our other friends for brunch. After brunch, I ran back to my car (2 miles).

In the afternoon, I got my COVID and flu shots, did some errands and decoratedthehouse for fall..

Sunday – Gym and hopefully some lake time…(though rain is in the forecast)

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – STEM mentor run (week 2)
Thursday – AM run, tennis dinner
Friday- gym, walk, mah jongg
Saturday – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k.

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Run to the Rock Half Marathon Race Recap
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races? How do you recover from a vacation? 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.

September 18, 2026 by Darlene

FFF: Fall Races and Bucket List Races

Today’s Topic is: Fall Bucket List Races

However, I do have 5 races on my schedule each year:

1.A Race-Cation with my running friends (date and location vary).

2.A local 10k.

3.A local 5k

4.A local 15k

5. Of course, a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot:

What about bucket list ones? Here are a few:

1.A Trail Race at Olana

Barry Hopkins Run at Olana (@BarryHopkinsRun) • Facebook
2.New Local Half Marathon (it used to be called Palio Half and was one of my favorite races)

2026 Saratoga Half Marathon Race Reviews | Saratoga Springs, NY

3. A Half Marathon in Salem, MA (always wanted to visit).

4. Newport Half Marathon (can’t beat the views)

Amica Newport Marathon & Half Marathon
5. RunFluent Christmas (trail) Half Marathon (it’s before Dec 21 so technically still fall)

May be an image of text

Happy Running! What races do you usually have planned for the Fall? What races are on your bucket list? 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,

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

September 15, 2026 by Darlene

TT: Community

The amazing running community – travellingcari.com

Today’s Topic is: What Does Community Mean to You Right Now?

To me “Community“:

is a welcoming space to make real friendships.

my “sole sisters” and forever friends

keeps you accountable by making it much easier to show up and stick to a regular routine.

Saturday long run…

Boosts motivation by pushing you to work harder, try new distances, and reach your goals.

Cheer you up when things don’t go well.

Offer a safe way to explore new routes and experiences.

Hot Chocolate 15k in Brooklyn

I know there are runners who run solo. It’s their alone time with their thoughts, music, books, etc…

That’s not me…

I only run by myself when it’s too inconvenient to find a partner.

When I first started running, I just ran races each week to have someone to run with.

Since then, I’ve found that there are many places to find “community.”

Here are a few ideas:

Local Running Stores: Staff usually know about weekly fun runs, track sessions, or beginner-friendly groups that meet up regularly.
Fitness Apps: Use Strava to search for local clubs by location..

Community Platforms: Search Meetup for running groups and social runs tailored to your pace and schedule.

Social Media: Search Facebook or Instagram for your city name combined with terms like “runners” or “run club”.

National Directories: Look up verified local organizations through the Road Runners Club of America or global networks…

Local Races: Attend local races, volunteer, or look up free weekly community events to meet active runners face-to-face.

Happy Running! What does “Community” mean to you? You prefer to run alone or with others? Please share.

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

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

September 13, 2026 by Darlene

WRD for 9.6.26-9.13.26: Race-cation Week!

Finally!

The races were run in Marshfield, MA and our rental was located in nearby Plymouth, MA.

We survived our races and are currently enjoying our time together.

Last Week-

Sunday – The weather looked a little better for Monday so we postponed our lake visit one day…

I briefly thought about gong to the gym but I had only run 3 miles on Saturday and I usually taper for a half with 8. So I set out to run 5 miles.

I drove to a place that I used to run and even found a new scenic neighborhood but I didn’t wasn’t feeling it.

no excuse as the weather was delightful… I did drag myself through 3 miles…

After some errands and home stuff (laundry, gardening), I decided that it was still too nice out to stay indoors so off I went to explore a nearby trail… (I was a little disappointed in the lack of flowing water…)

with a TJ’s stop afterward.

too much pumpkin??

I used to play tennis (a lot) and so I still love to watch the big tournaments on TV. 3 American men and 4 women still left in the USOPEN! Yay!!

Monday – Labor Day so a day off from work. The gym was closed but although it was cool, the sun was shining so we drove up to the lake.

I spent the day relaxing with a book ..

finished Whistler… loved it!

and took a LONG trail walk, as well.

I would have walked longer (if my hubby had come) and if I didn’t get a little lost. LOL

Tuesday – WFH this week (with my boss away). That means that I cannot sneak out (during worktime) for any runs or walks.

So I went to the gym before work and after work, I went for a run. I’ve mentioned many times that my preferred time to run is NOT after work but I chose the other end of the rail trail and even veered off to a trail to drag myself through the miles.

the barn has been re-finished…

Two exciting 5 set US Open tennis matches – I watched the end of the first one (Yay Foe) and the beginning of the 2nd (which ended at 3:30 am). We will have two American men in the finals!!

Wednesday – I skipped the gym before work and since rain was predicted, I squeezed in a short run at lunch.

enjoying all the flowers before they die… and yes the rain did come...

Thursday – Just the gym before work and after work, my last PT appt was scheduled. But I had to cancel as I needed to drop my car off at the dealer (fingers crossed that it not $$$) and I had to finish packing.
Friday – We set out early in several cars for a our race-cation weekend. One of our running friends moved to Wakefield, MA and so she invited us for a BBQ.

Next stop was race bib/shirt pick up in Marshfield, MA and then finally to our rental in Plymouth, MA.

After settling in, we went into town and to carb load for our races and hung out.

Saturday – Run to the Rock Race.

The race was held in Marshfield, MA at 8am. I ran the Half Marathon, 4 ran the 10k, 2 ran the 5k and 2 just cheered us all on.

We got it done!! (more details in another post).

After lunch, soaking in the hot tub, showers, we eventually went into town to celebrate our achievements (and friendships).

We capped off the day with drinks on the deck in front of the firepit.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Sunday – More fun exploring the sites… saying good-by to one of our friends who is moving permanently to Florida…
Monday – Starting the day with a short run or walk and then checking out of the rental and heading home…
Tuesday – gym, walk or run
Wednesday – run, STEM mentoring (week 1)
Thursday – run or walk
Friday- gym, walk, mah jongg
Saturday – Long run and Brunch. Covid & Flu shots

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Community
Friday – Fall Races/Bucket List Races

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races? Are you looking ahead to fall? Has the weather got in the way of any plans? Do anything exciting for Labor Day? Are you obsessed with pumpkin-flavored food? Do watch tennis? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

September 11, 2026 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Reasons Fall Is The Best Running Season

I LOVE summer but running-wise, it is tough.

Fall is the Best Running Season and here are 5 Reasons Why:

1.Cooler and Less Humid Weather Conditions to Run In.

As I said, I normally love the sunshine and warm temps of summer.

Hopefully, my runs will be more comfortable and hence speedier.

2. Fall Foliage Viewing on Your Runs.

Living in upstate New York, we are usually treated to gorgeous fall colors. Hopefully our wacky summer weather this year will not impact this.

3. More Racing Ops.

Many more races are scheduled in the Fall compared to the summer.

fall fest 5k

great pumpkin challenge 5k or 10k

stockade-athon 15k

upstate classic 5k or HM

troy turkey trot

4. A Race-cation with Friends.

Last fall, I went to Lake Placid with my running friends…

and we had so much fun that this year, we rented a house again and plan to spent 4 days in Plymouth, Mass. which will include running a race and other assorted shenanigans.

5.Pumpkin everything as a post run treat.

Yes, I do love Fall food!! Especially those with pumpkin. A must-have after a long run or race.

Happy Running! Are you looking forward to Fall? Which season is the best for running? 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,

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

September 8, 2026 by Darlene

2026 Silks and Satins 5k Race Recap

September 5, 2026

When I first started running, this race was one of my favorite 5ks. I ran it in 2008, 2009, 2010.

in 2008 – my first year of running

in 2010, this is where I met AJH for the first time (I was wearing shorts back then.)

It’s funny how things have changed. AJH was trying to convince me to run a longer race than a 5k. Since then I have completed almost 80 half marathons.

My 5k time back in 2010 was 29:34.

After 5 years off (from this race), I ran it again in 2015. And my time was 28:41. So things hadn’t changed that much (but I started to wear running skirts instead of shorts).

I enjoyed this race so much that I re-added it to my summer racing list and ran it again in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2023, 2024 and 2025 (in a thunderstorm) (28:27, 27:37, 27:28, 28:18, 28:05, 30:03, 31:42)

: 2016

: 2017

: 2018

: 2019

: 2023

: 2024

Notice that due to the Pandemic, they discontinued this race for 3 years (2020, 2021, 2022).

Then, the organizers of the Firecracker 4 race took over this race and I decided to sign up.

I shocked myself with a decent pace so again I thought why not and my running friends were busy that weekend so it was a good excuse to skip my long run.

Last year, there was a thunderstorm but I still ran it.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This year, it was not on my radar as I had a half scheduled for the week after.

I had considered running the Run 4 the River half marathon as a training run but my DIL scheduled a birthday party for my granddaughter at 11 am.

Nope, not enough time to finish 13.1 miles so I registered for this 5k instead.

Here is the map for the course that I ran in past years:

Here’s the 2023 course:

pretty similar… they have kept this course … I think.

I didn’t get much running done during the week – rain, work… etc. I thought about some speed drill son the track but that never happened.

Race Day:

The race started at 8 am. This being the last weekend of the Saratoga Flat Track, believe it or not, there would already be a lot of traffic at that hour.

I got up at 5:30 am and had my usual race breakfast of coffee and oatmeal.

I left at 6:30 in order to get there early enough to get parking and pick up my bib. I wound up getting stuck for about 10 minutes while horses were crossing the road.

Last year there were no available parking lots so you had to park on the street. I did find a spot in a nearby parking lot this year and then I went to get my bib and shirt.

No free tickets to the race track this year. Instead they offered a free ticket to the racing museum after the race.

I went back to my car to drop off my shirt.

It is usually a very popular race but I didn’t see many runners that I knew (but there was a conflict with that big local half and a few other area 5ks.)

Of course, I needed a pre-race photo.

Soon it was time to line up.

I stood somewhere in the middle. This race attracts many speedy runners and I didn’t want to get run over… but I forgot that there was NO timing mat at the start line..

Miles 1-3.1:

No reason to recap this race mile by mile.

I started out at a decent pace because I wanted to get done. It was sunny but not too hot or humid (for a change.)

But I felt my gait was slightly off and my ankle or Achilles (can’t figure out which) was still tight. So I walked several times during each mile and stopped at the water stop midway..

I managed to sprint across the finish line around 31:xx (those sub 30 minutes seem to be gone!).

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed a water and banana.

The were miniature cows and some retired horses…

I checked the results

and I came in 2nd so I grabbed my medal and raced home.

Additional Race Reflections:

Yes, it was an early morning and a long drive.

At least it was not extremely hot or raining.

And yes, it should have been a 8 mile long run as part of training for next week’s big race…

But races challenge me and I think it’s important to challenge oneself.

Otherwise, my runs are slow and easy and I squeeze them in whenever I can. I also run with friends, some faster, some slower and always with run walk intervals.

So I don’t regret running this 5k. Though it was almost a course PW, it was expected.

Positives:

Well organized race.
Well marked course with many course marshals.
Flat course.
Immediate results.
5 year age groups for awards.
Free ticket to the racing museum (though it didn’t really interest me.)
Charity: Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga
Parking lots and on street parking

Negatives:

Unisex (cotton) shirts.
Date change so no free tickets to the track.
New date conflicted with Run 4 the River HM.
Long drive for me.
No time to hang out after.
Not enough miles to count as a taper.

Would I recommend this race?

Maybe…

All in all, this was a fun race. Besides all the turns, the race course is pretty flat. It is well-organized.

Not sure if I would run it again because it is not nearby.

In past years, I added more miles after the race a nearby park (and so at least it counted as a long run.)

No time today…

Final Stats:

Still queen of the positive splits:

With an increasing number of walks with each mile…

Next Up:

Sept. 12, 2026

Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big races coming up? Do you run short races even when you are training for a big long race? How do you feel about 5ks? Please share.

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

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

September 6, 2026 by Darlene

WRD: 8.30.26-9.4.26: Tapering with a race…

Crazy, right?

But, it was only a 5k race…

Last Week-

Sunday – The forecast was for rain but we got lucky and though it was cloudy and cool, it didn’t rain!! And my granddaughter got to spend a day on the lake!!

she is the cutest…

Monday – DAY OFF – and a busy one.

I had an early appt with my PT… then I had extra time so I ran around the nearby parking lots…

can you believe some of the trees are turning colors already?

On the way home, I even stopped at the gym. Finally I met a friend to go for a hike and then out to lunch…

we chose this preserve because of the waterfalls… can you see any? nope us neither.

Still had time to do some errands (optician, library, bank…) These days off are tiring…

Tuesday – I had plans to run before work with Deirdre… we woke up to pouring rain and went back to bed. I kept checking outside to see if the rain had stopped so I could squeeze in a run at some point since after work, I had a hair appt.

I tried but didn’t get too far (in my new shoes) before it started to rain hard again…

Wednesday – ~~An early morning gym visit~~. After a poor night’s sleep, I skipped the gym.

I planned to meet my BFF for a mall walk after work… so I left early to get in a UAlbany loop run beforehand.

muggy and I was sluggish but happy to have gotten it done…

Thursday – Jenny was back from Sydney and so I met her for a LONG early morning walk…

After work, I arrived at the ARE trail run location so I could run before everyone arrived and then walk the trail…

done at a snail’s pace due to the humidity (and the bugs).

This was the last ARE trail event for the season so they hosted a BBQ. I’m sad that these are over…

And that Deirdre is moving permanently to Florida…

thanks to ChatGpt for a memory

Friday – Another gym visit before work (but not as early) and a longer walk with Jenny at lunchtime..

and finally mah jongg in the evening.

Saturday – Silks and Satins 5k.

Originally I was planning on running the Run 4 the River half marathon as a training run but my DIL scheduled at birthday party for 11 am!!

So instead I registered for this 5k race.

I’ve run it before and it used to be held on the first day of the racing season and you got free tickets to the track. This year for the first time, it is scheduled on the last day of the season.

I’m definitely not in 5k shape since I’ve been preparing for a half marathon and nursing a sore Achilles but I got it done and raced home in time for the b-day party.

even with a course PW, I came in 2nd in my AG

Heather turned 3 and the theme of the party was The Little Mermaid. She was adorable, as usual.

Sunday – Gym and not sure what else… maybe a hike.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – Holiday DAY OFF, run, boating
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – PM run
Thursday – run, last PT
Friday- drive to Wakefield, MA for lunch (one of our group has moved there) and then to Marshfield to pick up race bibs and finally to Plymouth to check into our rental, settle in and carb load.
Saturday –Run for the Rock Half Marathon…
Some of my friends switched to the 5k or 10k. I plan to run the half marathon with Sherry.

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Silks and Satins 5k Race Recap
Friday – Fall is the Best Running Season

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races? Are you looking ahead to fall? Has the rain got in the way of any plans? Ever taper for a long race with a 5k? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

September 4, 2026 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for September

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 after 17 years of playing mah jongg weekly, I finally bought a mah jongg set. (on FB MarketPlace… the price was right!)

can’t wait to use it…

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the summer flew by and when boating ends so does my expanded reading time..

I’ve read so far:

- The Calamity Club
- Theo of Golden
- My Husband’s Wife
- Pineapple Street
- Yesteryear
- Strangers: a memoir of marriage
- The Divorce
- Once and Again
- Whistler
- The Storm
- The Midnight Train
- The first Wish of Mr Murray McBride
- The last Wish of Mr Murray McBride
- It’s hard to be an animal

3. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that nothing has changed with my 3rd cat, Dali. She still stays mostly upstairs and hates the other two cats… (and yes, I’ve tried every trick on Google.)

I experimented with food in Dali’s room … a lot of growling and hissing after they finished eating…

And she is still afraid of my hubby.

She likes me, at least.

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’ve 11 PT appointments. Did they make a difference? I think so. I have someone dictating and watching me do the exercises and I have access to different devices.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that after this half marathon, I’m looking forward filling up my end of the year race calendar with shorter races.

- 09-05-26 – Silks and Satins 5k
- 09-19-26 – Tiger Trot 5k?
- 09-26-26 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k
- 10-03-26 – Barn to Bridge 5k
- 10-24-26 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
- 11-08-26 – Stockadeathon 15k
- 11-15-26 – Upstate Classic 5k (as a STEM mentor)
- 11-26-26 – Troy Turkey Trot 10k
- 12-13-26 – Winter Series #1 (5k)