
Weekday Runs:
I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home. I prefer to run 4 times but sometimes it just doesn’t happen.
I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights and it is now too dark when I get out of work. I did run while in Liverpool for work but not while in Buffalo. (I hope to run while in NYC this week.) My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles.
I ran alone most of the time. But Alyssa was able to accompany me only a few times. It’s definitely more fun running with friends.
- with Alyssa
- with Alyssa & Chris
Since the Turkey Trot running group ran on Tuesdays this year, I could not run with them 😦 Even my work schedule interfered with volunteering to help the STEM runners train for their first 5k.
Long Runs:
Long runs ended with my half marathon being on Nov. 12. Without a long race until March 2018, I still plan to run at least 6 miles on the weekend. I don’t predict double digits until February!
Total Mileage:
I have run 70 miles this month so far. A big decrease over last month (102) but I am feeling healthy so all is good.
Races:
I had several races on my schedule this month. In Las Vegas, I ran the RNR 5k and Half Marathon. The half was my slowest this year but these races were never about time but about the experience and racing in Las Vegas was an amazing experience. I also ran local on Thanksgiving, both the Troy Turkey Trot 10k and 5k. My legs felt strong for the 10k and although it was not a PR, my finish time was faster than last year.
- Las Vegas
Cross Training:
I actually played tennis 4 times indoors. Woo Hoo!!!!
I did NOT go to work out at the gym at all!!!! Not once! Nunca! Jamais! No excuses because I live near a free gym and my tennis club membership this year includes free access to the gym.
I thought I might fit in a yoga class. I did NOT!!
I did walk-occasionally at lunch. Not everyday like I used to. I find it hard to tear myself away from my desk and I have been traveling a lot.
Other News:
I got in additional sightseeing when I was in Las Vegas for the two races.

thoroughly enjoyed my 6 hour tour of Red Rock Canyon
There were also quite a few friend-bonding activities. Can’t have too many of those.
- Mah Jongg Anniversary Dinner
- Tennis Ladies Take on Broadway
As you can tell, running is not my whole life. I think it is important to make time for other things that bring you pleasure….family, friends, food….
Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.
Looking Ahead:
No other half marathons planned until March.
I have just a few shorter races planned. My racing schedule does slow down during the winter.
This is my list so far for the next 2 months:
- 12-03-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #1 (3 m or 15k)?
- 12-09-17 – Albany Last Run 5K
- 1-01-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #2 (3.5m)
- 1-14-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #3 (3m or 10K)
- 1-28-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #4 (3m or 15K)
I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her December Race Linkup:

This motto worked for 2016 so I’m sticking with it in 2017!
Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:
Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt lifefor
Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.
I’d say overall a B+.
You know, zero gym attendance, skipping lunch time walks and weekly runs. Though I had a lackluster performance in Vegas, I redeemed myself at the Turkey Trot 10K.
This week I am also joining up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs each week for the Coaches’ Corner linkup
As you always say, finishing = winning. Heck, I also had my slowest half this year amidst the PRs. 🙂 Sometimes it’s definitely just about the experience. There’s only one half I’ve ever run that I regret — because I was injured & didn’t realize how bad it would be.
I think you’re doing just fine considering all the travel you do. It’s tiring!
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I never regret a race no matter how it goes but I’ve never been seriously injured (well except the broken foot & stress fracture LOL)
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Exactly. It’s not a matter of how well I did, but when it causes me to be pain from walking — and not just for a few days — yes, I regret it. Mostly I regret not knowing enough to get more help, but live & learn.
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Great job Darlene!! You got a lot of racing in with your miles this month 🙂
My mileage is way down this month, but that is okay, I needed it.
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That’s cool that you have access to a free gym!
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it is but if only I could motivate myself to go!!!!!
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I love Red Rock Canyon! That’s great that you got to see it while you were in Vegas, and yay for lots of friend time 🙂
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RR was beautiful.
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YOU are a busy gal! I wish I had a few more events on my calendar…but it’s blank until probably end of January….
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we are lucky to have free races on the weekend or mine would be blank too.
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Overall I’d say you had a solid month. I still haven’t made it to the studio for yoga. It’s tough to get to the gym when you’re not in the habit of going.
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I know. I have go get my a$$ in gear.
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Sounds like a pretty good month to me! I love that you play tennis. It’s one sport I wish I could play. It always seems to hurt my knees, but I haven’t tried in many years.
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Tennis is for me now purely social. And yes those who play a lot do have knee problems.
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You just keep on going like the energizer bunny! Truly amazing, Darlene!
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Thanks but you are the amazing one.
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I would definitely give you a higher grade than B+ for everything you were able to do in November! I’ve been calmed down on the racing front since October and spending more time in barre class…I would be open to finding some fun local races this winter!
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Thanks. Not a lot going on here in the winter. Which is why I always sign up for a race in Fl.
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I had a very strong fall and strong month of November for running. Haven’t added up my mileage though, but I have consistently been running 3 times a week for the past 6 months which is huge for me. I am a gym rat too…. so I go at least 2 times a week to lift weights. Add in golf (which is not a sport but does include lots of walking) and my activity level has significantly increased this year. It is a good balance though.
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Sounds like a great month. And you look wonderful.
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Sounds like you had a productive November! I love all your group outings. Next time the tennis ladies take on Broadway, I want to come! 😉 If only I lived closer…
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Yes I wish you did. I’d love to meet you.
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I can top you – I didn’t go to the gym for several months AND I was paying for it! I wouldn’t feel too guilty if it were free. But then we know I don’t cross train…
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