February 27, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: February Report Card

Well, it looks like February came in like a lion, turned into a lamb, then a lion and then again a lamb. Global warming???

Anyhow, here’s how February worked out for me:

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. As I mentioned February was a crazy weather month. We had temps anywhere from the single digits to the 70s.

I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights but the good news is that it is staying light longer. I did run while working in NYC and in Buffalo. The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

Long Runs:

Work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. I skipped one since I was snowed in in Buffalo and for the others, I got in the mileage but none was done without a break – meaning I added some miles before or after the run. Not ideal but better than not doing them at all.

: 4 miles post 4 mi race = 8 miles

: 5 instead of 9 miles

Total Mileage:

I have run 76 miles this month so far. Still a little behind on my 1000 mile yearly goal but I have lots of time. And I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran the Polar Cap Race which was a 4 miler and an annual favorite for me. I also ran the last free Winter Series Race, a 4.5 miler. Both were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I also won my age group in both races. A nice perk!

Cross Training:

I only played tennis once indoors. It’s doubles so not a great workout but better than nothing. I wish I could play more but …WORK WORK WORK!!!

I actually did work out at the gym once but only because I was meeting a friend there before going out to dinner.

I went to my FIRST hot yoga class. I loved it and planned to go again but did not. I will be less motivated to go once the weather warms up.

I did walk-occasionally at lunch. Not everyday like I used to. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

I loved watching the Olympics…especially the figure skating.

I can relate. Things don’t always go the way you had hoped.

Image result for ice dance olympics 2018 sib

Then sometimes they do!

I met two new Skirt Sports ambassadors – Bethany, local and Elizabeth in NYC. I hope to run with each one in the future.

I tried my hand at a Challenge. I wasn’t successful but at least I tried.

Image result for squats suprmans twist challenge

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #30 in March.

It’s not the one I planned on running but it’s a race during my vacation in Florida. I will do my best to enjoy the experience.

I have some shorter races planned as well. My racing schedule starts to pick up in the spring.

This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

3-17-18 – Brew 2 Brew Half Marathon (in Fl)
3-25-18 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m)
3-31-18 – Ice Breaker Challenge 5K
4-14-18 – Code Blue 8K and/or 4-15-18 – Delmar Dash (5m)
4-21-18 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k and/or 4-22-18 – Sasha’s Super Hero Run 5k
4-28-18 – Spring Run Off 5k /10k and/or 4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her February Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall a A-

Despite the work travel and crazy winter weather, I did my best to get in my runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it.

Spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner.

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! How did your February turn out? Anything exciting planned for March?

What grade would you give your running month?

February 26, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.19.18-2.25.18: Home Sweet Home

I felt like I was on vacation. Day off. No travel for work. No races. Woo Hoo!

Last week –

Monday – Presidents Day. Boy did I need a day off!! I procrastinated on my run and missed the sunshine. But I did get in a short windy run before the rain.

after all my weekend miles, my legs were feeling it so 2.5 miles was all I could muster

Tuesday – 60 degrees! Woo Hoo! Another quick run after work. And I finally got to play tennis. It had been weeks and it was fun getting out there.

only had time for 2.5 miles but couldn’t resist running in capris and short sleeves

Wednesday – 70 degrees in February!!! It was supposed to be a rest day but with snow predicted for Thursday and rain for Friday, what’s a runner to do? So I went for a run after my dentist appt. In a tank and a skirt!!!

3 miles, an ice cream cone and a mall walk with my BFF

Thursday – Well, winter returned. It snowed today!! Good thing it was finally a rest day! I did have to celebrate National Margarita Day!!

Friday – Rest day #2. Rain, rain. rain. Needed the rest anyway and finally got to play mah jongg.
Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Not excited about the distance nor trying to find a clear road but always look forward to bonding with the Wineglass ladies. Our group was smaller than usual and we all ran or walked different distances. Barbara, this week, was nice enough to run slower and keep me company for 9 miles (I ran 2 before we met.)

we all met up for breakfast where we planned our next girls weekend adventure – in Montreal – in September!!

Sunday – Rest Day Sunday. Don’t worry I wasn’t stuck in the hose all day. Had dinner out with my tennis friends (we do this monthly).

This Coming Week –

Monday – 4 miles
Tuesday – 3 miles
Wednesday – 4 miles
Thursday – rest day, dinner with a friend
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – 12 miles, haircut, nails, errands
Sunday – rest day

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and NEW host Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How are you dealing with winter? Has your weather been psycho too? Please share.

February 24, 2018 by Darlene

Runfessions – February

It’s that time again. Time to get things off my chest with Marcia’s Runfessions at Marcia’s Healthy Slice…

I runfess…

When I get depressed about the weather, I sign up for spring/summer races. It makes me feel like spring is almost here even though I know that it’s a long way away.

3-31-18 – Ice Breaker Challenge 5K
4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k
5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon
6-02-18 – Freihofer Run for Women 5K
6-30-18 – Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes

Runners at the start of the Cherry Blossom 5K run for ALS research. The evnt was held at Congregation Gates of Heaven, located on Ashmore Ave. on Sunday, April 26, 2015.

Has anyone else already registered for spring/summer races?

I runfess…

I bought my race outfit for my March half marathon before I even signed up for the race.

Skirt Sports of course – use the code 128Card for 15% off

Am I the only one who does this?

I runfess…

I was kinda glad that I got snowed Friday night when I was working in Buffalo. It meant that I could get up later the next morning and run at my leisure instead of driving 5 hours home (in a snowstorm).

So it was supposed to be a long run of 9 miles but…. 5 slow ones was better than nothing.

Anyone else had it with this winter?

I runfess…

I signed up for the Superman, Squats, Russian Twist challenge to motivate myself to do some strength training. And it worked for a while. But I suck at challenges. The rarely did the Supermans because they are too hard for me and then I lost interest when you had to do more than 50. I break them up and I always ran out of time or forgot. And yes, I did some, some of the time which was better than none, never.

Do I look happy?

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share.

February 23, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – The Socks Post

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

My Topic for today is: My Favorite Socks

First, Five Reasons I Wear Legend Compression Wear

1. I’m an Ambassador.

I applied because this brand came highly recommended so I wanted to promote their socks. Happily they accepted me.

To get $15 off, click here

2. My ankle enjoys compression wear.

When I had ankle surgery a few years back, they put a plate and screws in. I want to run for a long time so I am careful and don’t run over 4 miles without compression socks or sleeves.

So far, so good. Zero problems with my ankle.

3. They are easier to get on and off.

I have tried other compression socks and sleeves and I’m sure you know what I mean. They are HARD to get on!!!! Legend Compression Wear are supportive enough but you don’t have to watch a video on how to put them on or break a nail doing so.

They are just as easy to get off even if you are sweaty.

4. Their socks offer graduated compression.

“Graduated Compression has been widely proven to improve symptoms of discomfort, swelling, fatigue and aching of the feet and legs. Graduated compression puts revitalizing pressure on the veins to improve blood flow and circulation. Medical professionals have long recommended compression hosiery to patients to improve blood circulation and overall health of their legs.”

This means that your legs will perform better and recover faster.

As a runner and tennis player, this is important to me.

5. Legend sells a variety of products (and in pretty colors).

There are socks for sports compression (as pictured above) as well as everyday compression. They even make a hiking specific sock called Tuff made of Merino wool

I look forward to wearing my Legend Compression Wear more often once the temps warm up and I can wear a running skirt again!!

Because I usually wear compression sleeves instead of compression socks, I can also wear My Soxy Feet socks.

Secondly, Five Reasons Why I Wear My Soxy Feet Socks

1, I am an Ambassador.

This year, I am lucky to represent another super sock company.

Use code SOXYCARDILLO to get 10% off your purchase

My Soxy Feet is a small, family owned and operated business. They developed this product in hopes of bringing “smiles to athletes of all shapes, sizes and ages and encourage a positive attitude towards health, fitness and a joyful life style.”

Since the founders/owners are avid runners, they understand the challenge of running and how difficult it is some days to stay motivated.

2. They have the cutest and most colorful (mismatched) socks.

My Soxy Feet Sock Rainbow! www.mysoxyfeet.com

3. They have styles for all sports.

I wear these to play tennis.

4. The are so comfortable.

The moisture wicking coolmax fibers keep your feet dry. They are made from nylon and lycra which secure the socks in place. The ventilation mesh enhances breathability. The socks contain targeted cushioning in high impact zones. The toe is seamless and hand-linked to prevent irritation.

5. They motivate and make you smile!

I need to buy both of these!

Happy Running! What are favorite brand of socks? Do you wear compression? Do you like your socks to look cute?

February 21, 2018 by Darlene

HMRRC Winter Series #5 Race Recap

2015: I’m the one with the pink hat & gloves

Yes, I ran another FREE race sponsored by Hudson Mohawk Runners Club .

As you can see above, this weekend, they offered distances of 4.5M and 10M. They also offered (starting an hour earlier) a 20M and Marathon option. (No thank you!!)

I had originally planned on the 10 miler (as I did in 2015 and 2016). It could have been a training run since my half is in FOUR weeks!! But I just didn’t have it in me. It’s not like me to wimp out on a race but I did.

Saturday, instead I ran 10 miles with friends.

It worked out fine and it was great catching up. I enjoyed not running solo (although this time I ran most of my miles alone.) The best part was that there was no pressure to race the miles and run faster than I should. And it was less windy than today’s weather.

Most runners would have then skipped the race. But I decided to just run the shorter distance – 4.5 miles.

Run NOT race for free with other runners and also get free food. Perfect, right?

I woke up to a few inches of fresh snow on the ground. That made me a little nervous. However, the roads are usually clear where this race is run.

The weather was warmer than the day before but it was very very windy and so it felt colder.

Barbara and I drove together. There was a high school track meet going on. So I had to drive to a farther parking lot. (Why does someone who can run 13 miles, balk at walking any distance to the start of a race?)

After a chilly walk, we arrived in time to register. (I didn’t register beforehand as I usually do because I was not sure that I would run the race.) I got to see Patrick, my running coach from the Turkey Trot. He was the race coordinator this week. I also chatted with a few other runners that I knew. However, the marathoners and 20 milers had already started and the crowd seemed to be a lot smaller than in previous races.

I decided to take off my fleece vest under my jacket and hoped that the sunshine would keep me warm. We stayed indoors until the very last minute and then made our way outside.

new fresh snow on the track

I had actually run this same race in 2013 and 2014 but they called it a 4 mile race. It turned out each year that it was more like 4.32 miles. So last year, it was re-named a 4.5 mile race but I’m not sure if they changed the course at all.

: 2013

: 2014

: 2017

In 2013, my finish time was 45:15, in 2014, 44:24 and last year, I finished at 42:58. However, it didn’t matter because I wasn’t racing, right?

The 4.5 milers and the 10 milers started together (though the 10 mile racers obviously ran the course twice and more).

We started out in the middle of pack and it was slow going for a while. The road was pretty clear but you had to look out for potholes until we left the campus.

I was ahead of Barbara for a short while but then she passed me by and I never came close to catching up to her.

It was interesting when all of a sudden while I was running my pace, the 10 milers sped by me. Then, there were times that the 20 milers or marathoners were speeding by me.

But I trudged along and kept moving forward. I was surprised that my legs felt pretty good and I was running at a faster pace than I expected I would be. Still, I didn’t want to push it and get injured.

I was cold at the beginning but warmed up when facing the sun (and took off my gloves)but of course, it was chilly when running into the wind. I felt that I dressed appropriately unlike the guy below:

in the 20s with strong gusty winds

As I was running, I was reminded about how uninteresting this course was and how many times, I have tun it. Besides being all concrete and parking lots, it seems that you are constantly going uphill but never enjoy as many downhills. (But I’m not complaining. It’s a FREE race!)

Believe it or not, I didn’t walk until the last hill. The wind was insane throughout most of the race but during that last mile, the gusts were so strong that I felt like I was moving backwards. The wind was tiring me out. But actually, it was easier to push through the wind running slowly than walking.

Finally we approached the campus, and they said 4.5 milers go left and 10 milers go straight. I was so happy that I had chose the shorter race. I couldn’t imagine fighting that wind for 5.5 more miles.

When I saw the finish line clock, I was shocked that it read 42:xx!! So I forced myself to sprint so I could cross under 43 minutes. (My finish time was 42:55)

A much slower time that I am capable of. But I was very happy that I felt fine and nothing hurt. I was able to keep my relaxed pace the whole time and I didn’t try to race. Believe it or not, it was my fastest time on this course.

I went inside to get warm and to grab some refreshments – some hot vegetable soup, bread, fruit and then hot chocolate and cookies.

I also met a local Skirt Sports ambassador. We had been friends on IG and didn’t realize that we lived near each other.

They gave awards for the top 2 in each 10 year age group. I WON!! Barbara won an award as well.

again the speedy women in my age group ran the longer distances

So I did what I set out to do – run some extra training miles.

Race splits:

mile 1 – 9.59
mile 2 – 9:54
mile 3 – 9:22
mile 4 – 10:16
.5- 8:41

I was glad that I ran the race. My pace was not as fast as if I were really racing it (my miles were in the 8s that last time on this course) but definitely a lot faster (and more enjoyable) than running alone.

And my next race will be the BIG ONE!!

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! How you are enduring the winter? Did you run or race this past weekend? Are advice for racing and fitting in long training runs?

February 20, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: My Least Favorite Part(s) of Running

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Today’s topic is My Least Favorite Part(s) of Running

Well, at least my list isn’t as long as the one for what I LOVE about running.

Injuries

Unfortunately they happen. Knock on wood, I have been blessed the past few years to be injury-free.

broken foot – June 2013 – my last running injury

Cost

Compared to other sports like skiing, tennis, etc, running is fairly inexpensive. But racing fees, running shoes, etc can put a drain on your wallet.

RnR races are not cheap!

When things don’t go right.

You can train and train and do everything right and your race tanks. These are so many variables (health, weather) that interact to make a race NOT go as hoped. Many of these are out of your control and many are in your control.

not thrilled with how I felt during this half (my fault!)

Scheduling Runs

If you don’t train, you can get injured, not get the results you want at a race, etc. (Unless you are one of the lucky few who can just go out and run a fast half marathon with no training.) And yet, it is sometimes so difficult to get in those runs. Family, friends, work, health, weather… they can all put a crimp on your running schedule.

in the hotel after work…before dinner

And that’s it!!!

Happy Running! What do you like least about running?

February 19, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.12.18-2.24.18 – New York, New York….

Another travel work week but at least, I didn’t have to drive and it wasn’t as cold and snowy as Buffalo. And the best part, there are lighted paths to run.

Yes, “New York, New York. It’s a wonderful town…”

Last week –

Monday – Off to NYC for work and set up in Queens. As soon as I was done and back in Manhattan, I headed to the East River to do some running.

5.5 miles – 4 of which were to and from the river on the crowded streets of the city

Tuesday – As soon as I got back to Manhattan after work in Queens, I changed my clothes and took off to run. This time it was along the Hudson River. I got a late start and missed the sunset but still a decent run away from home.

4 miles (2 miles to and from the river). Chillier than Monday so I added gloves, vest & beanie but not complaining – warmer than last week.

Wednesday – Of course, I could not be in NYC and not run in Central Park. To save time (and my legs), I took the subway to Columbus Circle and ran around the park. I was really dragging but got in my steps by walking back to my hotel.

so tired but got 2.5 miles in (barely)

sights along my walk (the top pic is Rockefeller Center)

Thursday – Unfortunately, I had to stay in the hotel to do a webinar and could not get out to run or walk. Instead, I met with a Skirt Sports ambassador. We chatted and had drinks. Hopefully the next time I come to NYC, we can meet in Central Park to run together.

after almost 2 hours, we felt like we had know each other for years…or maybe it was the 2 glasses of wine

Friday – Another scheduled rest day since I had to take the train home after work. Totally exhausted because I get up every morning at 5:30 am and stay up late watching the Olympics. Plus even if I don’t run, I walk 5 miles (train, subway, work, lunch) each day.
Saturday – Finally reunited with my running friends for an early morning run. I really didn’t feel like getting up to run but as usual, I was glad that I did. I ran 2 miles at home and then drove with Barbara to meet the others. I ran with Barbara for about 3 miles but decided to let her go ahead because she was running faster than I wanted to. So I ran the remaining 5ish by myself. Afterwards, we all met for breakfast.

lots of sunshine, clear path in one direction on the Nisky Bike Path

Sunday – The last Winter Series race was scheduled for today. Even though, I ran yesterday, I couldn’t turn down a free race. I woke up to snow which did make me nervous but Barbara and I decided to go anyway. I didn’t plan to race and the wind was insane. The good news – I met a fellow Skirt Sports ambassador and won my age group. Yup, another good day for this runner.

4.5 miles and a course PR

This Coming Week –

Monday – Day OFF from work, 3 miles
Tuesday – 2 TM miles before tennis
Wednesday – 4 miles, mall walk with BFF
Thursday – rest day, dinner with an old friend
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – 11 miles
Sunday – rest day, dinner out with tennis ladies

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and NEW host Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How are you dealing with winter? Please share.

February 16, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Am I up for a challenge?

Superman – Lie face down with arms out in front of you. Lift your arms, chest, and legs simultaneously.

Squat – Stand with feet slightly wider than your hips with toes and knees pointing forward. Raise your arms in front of you, parallel to the ground. Squat down like you would be sitting in a chair until your knees are bent at a 90˚ angle. Rise up and return to standing position.

Russian Twist – In a seated position. Lean back until you feel your abs engage so you’re in a V-position. Clasp your hands in front. Twist to the right side and return to center. Repeat to the left side.

I am not one for doing ANY type of exercise.

Let’s face it. I am LAZY!!

But I decided to give this one a try.

Why?

1.FOMO

Everyone else is doing them!! Check it out on IG! Just want to be part of the “cool” crowd. lol

2. You don’t have to go to a gym.

I don’t have a gym membership. I don’t have the time to go and I travel for work.

3. You don’t need any equipment.

I don’t own any exercise equipment. If I did, it would be a waste of money, anyway.

4. Protecting my back.

I sit all day at a computer at work. I also drive for hours at times.

My back is one part of my body that aches when I sit in a certain chair/seat (at the movies, in some cars).

5. Strengthening my core.

Yes, I’ve heard it a zillion times that for runner, it is important to a have a strong core. But also as I age, I know that I need to have a stronger core to help with posture and balance.

***************************

So I’m on the third week.

And yes, I find them very difficult. Especially the squats because of the hardware in my left ankle. And Superman? I can barely get my arms & legs off the ground.

And I don’t do them in one shot. But I do them most of the time.

Thanks to Rachel @Running on Happy for setting up the challenge.

And since it’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

Happy Running! Anyone else participating in this challenge? Which exercise is the hardest for you?

February 14, 2018 by Darlene

Making Lemonade

Image result for singer island half marathon

~~March 17, 2018~~ CANCELLED

Remember how I signed up for this race months ago, planned a vacation visiting friends who live nearby…

Then this happened:

The Suck:

Losing my registration fee for the race (no refund, just can register for another of their races…great if I lived in Fla.)
Update: I complained on FB and now they say they will refund my money 🙂
Not running over a bridge twice with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Two different friends who are staying in Singer Island would be cheering me on.
Was planning on attending a Mets spring training game afterwards.
Am staying for 2 nights after in Delray Beach – not too far away
I could have gone to Fla. at a different time and run a different race (and be able to run the NYC Half this weekend)
Brew-2-Brew (see my lemonade below) is an inaugural race (and you know my past experience with those…RnR Brooklyn comes to mind among others.)
No reviews or course info, etc about said race.
More $$ needed to spend on registering for this new race.
I don’t drink beer!!!

Image result for when life throws you lemons quote

This my LEMONADE:

in Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach’s first ever Brew-2-Brew 13.1 mile, half marathon.
Beginning and ending at the local owned Walking Tree Brewery.

I could have skipped the race thing entirely or I could have cancelled my trip but instead I MAY sign up for this race. (I haven’t registered yet since the numbers for this race are low. )

The Good: