Author: Darlene

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TT: 2025 Year End Review

Microsoft Dynamics GP Year-End Update

MY TOPIC TODAY is  2025 Year End Review

Overall, I had a pretty good year!!

Running-Related:

  • 855 Miles (lowest total since 2013)

2024 – 861 miles
2023 – 955 miles
2022 – 1028 miles
2021 – 1018 miles
2020 – 1017 miles
2019 – 947 miles
2018 – 894.5 miles
2017 – 1041.5 miles
2016 – 1046 miles
2015 – 969 miles
2014 – 911 miles

My annual goal was usually 1000…

However, without marathon training and a few glitches here and there, I just ran fewer miles this year.

Jan – 78 miles
Feb – 76 miles
Mar – 79 miles
Apr – 65 miles
May – 69 miles
Jun – 54 miles
Jul – 50.5 miles
Aug – 88 miles
Sept- 67.5 miles
Oct – 73 miles
Nov – 81 miles
Dec – 74 miles

 It’s all good.  I ran as many miles as I was able.

As always, my favorite miles were those with friends…

  • 32 Races (5 Half Marathons, 1 -10m, 1 -15k, 5 -10ks, 1 -5m, 2 -4m, 1 -3.5m, 12 -5ks, 3 -other distances)

Though I ran fewer annual miles, I ran MORE races!!

I’m pretty sure they were all COURSE PWs… (but who cares?)

    1. Winter Series #2 (3.5m 4.1m) –
    2. Winter Series #4 (3.5 3.8m)
    3. Publix Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon
    4. Winter Series #5 (3.8m)
    5. Electric City 10k
    6. Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon
    7. Delmar Dash (5M)
    8. Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon
    9. Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k
    10. Tropicool 5k
    11. CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge (3.5M)
    12. Miles on the Mohawk (10M)
    13. Run for Women 5k
    14. Mastercard NY Mini 10k
    15. Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k
    16. Firecracker 4
    17. Indian Ladder Farms Spiked Apple 5k
    18. Silks & Satins 5k
    19. Run for the Roses 5k
    20. Ellen’s Run
    21. Run 4 the River Half Marathon
    22. Malta 5k
    23. Squirrel Stampede 10k
    24. Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k
    25. Lake Placid Half Marathon
    26. Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k
    27. Trick or Trot Pumpkin 5k
    28. Stockade-athon 15k
    29. Upstate Classic 5k
    30. Troy Turkey Trot 10k
    31. RunFluent Christmas Race (7k)

  • 12 NEW Races

I love seeing new scenery and/or running new routes…

    1. Publix Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon
    2. Electric City 10k
    3. Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon
    4. Tropicool 5k
    5. Mastercard NY Mini 10k
    6. Indian Ladder Farms Spiked Apple 5k
    7. Ellen’s Run
    8. Squirrel Stampede 10k
    9. Lake Placid Half Marathon
    10. Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k
    11. Trick or Trot Pumpkin 5k
    12. RunFluent Christmas Race

  • 7 Race-cations

I would say, however, that only 3 trips* were booked specifically for the race and the other races were just added to an existing trip.

    1. Publix Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon
    2. Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon*
    3. Tropicool 5k in Naples, FL
    4. Mastercard NY Mini 10k in NYC*
    5. Ellen’s Run in Southampton, NY
    6. Lake Placid Half Marathon*
    7. RunFluent Christmas Race

  •  20 Age Group Awards (11 -1st, 6 -2nd, 3 -3rd)

None were speedy but it depends on who shows up, right?

    1. Winter Series #4 – 1st
    2. Winter Series #5 – 1st
    3. Electric City 10k – 2nd (but no awards given).
    4. Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon – 3rd
    5. Delmar Dash – 3rd
    6. Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon – 2nd ($10 off another race)
    7. Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k – 1st
    8. Tropicool 5k – 1st
    9. Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k – 3rd
    10. Indian Ladder Farms Spiked Apple 5k – 1st
    11. Silks & Satins 5k – 2nd
    12. Run for the Roses 5k – 1st
    13. Ellen’s Run – 1st
    14. Malta 5k – 1st
    15. Squirrel Stampede 10k – 1st
    16. Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k – 2nd
    17. Lake Placid Half Marathon – 1st
    18. Trick or Trot Pumpkin 5k – 1st
    19. Upstate Classic – 2nd
    20. Troy Turkey Trot 10k – 2nd

  • 2 DNSed  Races
    1. Winter Series #3 (free local race) – Work commitment
    2. Keep Moo’ving 5k – Rain
  • Mentored 2 Running Groups

It’s always rewarding to help other runners reach their goals.

    1. Race for Women Training Challenge group in the spring
    2. STEM (victims of Domestic Violence) in the Fall
  • 10 Blogger Meet-Ups

6 with Cari, 1 with Jenny, 2 with Coco and 1 with Deborah

Fitness-Related:

  •  94 Gym Visits

When I was home, I tried to go to the gym on non-running days which was usually 2-3 times each week…

  • Several Hiking Days

I work full-time but I was able to take a few days off (though my friend and I got a late start this year due to scheduling conflicts).

It’s a great alternative to running and an opportunity to visit new places. This year, we even made two new hiking friends.

Non-Running Related:

  • Many visits to NYC

Sometimes due to work and always an opportunity to connect with friends, see a Broadway show and/or visit a park or museum.

  • Three Florida Vacations
    1. In February, I visited friends on the East coast (Delray Beach)
    2. And in May, I traveled with tennis friends to the West coast (Naples)
    3. In December, I visited running friends who winter in Florida.

  • Many Summer Sundays on Lake George

The weather cooperated for the most part… Sad that it’s over!!

  • Many Starbuck visits

It’s my reward when I can’t WFH and I drive past a Starbucks…

  • 43 Books Read

  • My Granddaughter got older and cuter!

And yes, for the most part, I think that I met my goal of being

Happy Running! How was your 2025? Please share.

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

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Weekly Run Down for 12.28.25-1.4.26: Welcome 2026!!

Happy New Year!!

Hope 2026 started out well for everyone…

Of course, I started my year with a race.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – With rain in the forecast for Monday, I decided to go out into the cold… I had to wait until Jenny was available and we ran at UAlbany due to the snow and ice on all the other paths.

It was slow going but we got it done and I also got all my errands done (including my nails)…

  • Monday – Yup, it rained all day. I had planned to hit the gym since I was WFH all week but the roads was so icy that I decided that it wasn’t safe to drive.

In the evening, our annual running group party was held. Luckily the weather and roads had improved.

missing a few “sole sisters” but there was a lot of food, gifts and laughter all the same!!

More snow, sleet and freezing rain overnight.

  • Tuesday – I woke up to find that it was so windy that the umbrella, table and  chairs from our deck blew over…

But I did get my run done after work. I didn’t feel like driving to UAlbany so I ran alone on the roads in town.  I feel like a broken record but it was cold, windy and icy!! Boo Hoo!!

some pretty houses like this one were still lit up…

  • Wednesday –  NYE – Started the work day at the gym and ended it with a family dinner at Delmonico’s. WFH and a lunch walk with Jenny in the middle…

My SIL was there  too but took the photo..

  • Thursday – DAY OFF – WS #2 Race  –  It was free and starts at noon so a fun way to start the running year.

You could choose a 3.5 miler or a half marathon. I chose the shorter distance. There were so many familiar faces (and food) which made it such a fun event.

Unfortunately, it was cold and WINDY (and slippery in spots)….

Since I was already dressed, I had planned to run the UAlbany loop so I could count today as a long run… (Who knows what Saturday weather would be like?)

Nope!  Too cold and windy… I went home and took a nice long HOT shower.

The Boxing Day dinner that we were invited last week (that got snowed out) was re-scheduled for that evening.

  • Friday- Another gym morning… WFH all day but Jenny accompanied on a frigid walk at lunch

and then mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – Long Run and brunch.

Since I didn’t run long on Thursday. I had to run at least 6 miles today. Due to the road and bike path conditions, again I had to run at UAlbany (yup, it’s getting boring!!)

Glad to have Heidi join me on my 2nd loop… and it was cold but much warmer than Thursday!!

After brunch, I had a hair appt.

  • Sunday – A gym visit is planned and walk/brunch with my BFF. And drinks/apps with a friend in the evening.

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday – PM gym or walk
  • Thursday – PM run
  • Friday – PM gym or walk, mah jongg
  • Saturday – NYC meet-up with college friend (Renoir exhibit at Morgan  Library/Monet exhibit at Brooklyn Museum)
  • Sunday – WS #3 Race  (5k or 10k)

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – 2025 Year End Review
  • Friday – Goals  for 2026

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races?  How did you celebrate NYE  or NYD? 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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Ultimate Coffee Date for January 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 yes, once you start (with ChatGPT), it’s hard to stop…

Christmas in Florida?

Running through the snow?

2. Over coffee… 

I’d tell you that you don’t have to travel… ChatGPT will take you there…

back  sipping a cafe au lait at a Parisian cafe (40 years later?)

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my first non-race of 2026 was yesterday…

wind chill of 2 degrees… but we survived!

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my next “real” race is in NYC.

2025 NYRR Manhattan 10K Race Reviews | New York, NY

Feb. 1

This was not on my radar but for some strange reason, I entered the lottery and then I GOT IN!!

I can never turn down a NYC visit so I will do it…

I know nothing about the race except that it’s a 10k and in Central Park.

So I assume that it’s a similar course to the Mini and/or Greta Gallop… (Cari will know!)

New York Mini 10K 2022 Race Recap - The Runner Beans

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I do plan a non-racing day in NYC next Saturday with a college friend (a French theme since we went to France together):

Paris-based Fouchon is bringing its famed macarons, chocolates 🍫 and other delicacies to 42nd Street near Sixth Ave, across from Bryant Park. 🍽️ Keep up with New York at Cititour.com #french #patisserie #

The Morgan Library Opens a Landmark Exhibition of Renoir's Drawings - Galerie Magazine

at the Morgan Library

Monet and Venice: Inside NYC's Largest Monet Exhibition in 25 Years | Brooklyn Museum | 2025 - YouTube

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: 2025 4th Quarter Update

Narrativa Betting Services and Quarter4 Announce Strategic Partnership for Sports Betting Groundbreaking AI Technology

MY TOPIC TODAY is: 2025 Q4 UPDATE.

Wow, the past THREE months have gone by pretty quickly. (You can read my Q1 Update Here, my Q2 Update Here and my Q3 Update Here.)

So we’re done with 2025!!

Things have not been perfect and so there’s definitely room for improvement.  Of course, many good things happened…

AND there’s 2026!!!

The best is yet to come (as they say…)

Running-Related:

  • 74 Miles 

No annual goal this year… (good thing since it was my lowest mileage since 2103 when I broke my foot…)

 But I ran as many miles as I was able. No major injuries just a few minor setbacks.

It’s all ok.

As always, my favorite miles were those with friends…

  • 8 Races (4-5ks, 1-7k, 1-10k, 1-15k, 1-13.1) 

I’m pretty sure they were mostly COURSE PWs… (but I’m trying to be positive here…)

  • 4 NEW Races

I love seeing new scenery and/or running new routes…

    1. Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon
    2. Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k
    3. Trick or Trot Pumpkin 5k
    4. RunFluent Christmas Race (7k)
  •  2 Race-Cations 
    1. Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon
    2. RunFluent Christmas Race

  • DNSed 0 Races 
  • Registered for 11 More Races (all for 2026)
    • 01-01-26 – Winter Series #2 (3.5m) – free
    • 01-11-26 – Winter Series #3 (3.5m or 10k) – free
    • 01-25-26 – Winter Series #4 (3.5m) – free
    • 02-01-26 – Manhattan 10k
    • 02-08-26 – Winter Series #5 (3.5m) – free
    • 02-14-26 – Race of Hope 5k (in Fl.)
    • 03-15-26 – United NYC Half Marathon (Brooklyn Bridge addition)
    • 03-21-26 – Asheville Half Marathon
    • 03-07-26 – Electric City 10k
    • 04-11-26 – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon
    • 05-24-26 – Miles On the Mohawk
  • 1 Blogger Meet-up

yup, that’s Cari on the left.

So who can I meet up with next year?

  • Mentored 1 Running Group 

STEM continued and we ran our goal 5k in November.

It’s always rewarding to help others reach their goals.

Fitness-Related:

  • 0 Stationary Bike Rides

I had great aspirations but I seem to only get on the bike when I am injured.

  • 18 Gym Visits 

When I was home, I tried to go to the gym on non-running days which was usually 3 times each week.

  •  3 Hiking Days 

Working full-time so no longer always an option to have the day off. But it’s a great alternative to running and an opportunity to visit new places.

My partner-in-crime has recovered from her injury so these have resumed each month. And we met two new hikers and they now hike with us.

  • Finally Some Walking Tuesdays

Whenever I’m in town and have friends available, there were walks on the local rail trail or in a shopping mall or at the gym track.

  • 0 Tennis Mondays

I enjoyed playing tennis so much in Florida and wasn’t as rusty as I thought so I played this summer when I could.

 I hope to play again when I visit friends in February (in Florida) and then again during my tennis vacation in May.

  • 2 Pickleball Lessons 

It seems that everyone is playing pickleball so I signed up for lessons at a nearby park. It was actually fun and I met some nice folks.

Then in September I signed up again…

Next step I guess would be to find folks to play pickleball with.

Non-Running, Non-Fitness Related:

  • 3 visits to NYC

Two for work. One to spectate the NYC Marathon. None for a race.

  • Many Dinners/Outings with Friends

Who doesn’t enjoy a meet-up that includes food/drinks/entertainment?

  • 0 Lake Visits

I was away the last two weekends of our boating season (and our marina closed on Oct 13.)

Looking forward to next year!!

  • 0 Knitting Projects Completed

I have lots of wool and plans but never got around to starting anything. Stay tuned for 2026. I hope to start something…

  • 8 Books Read  

My reading took a dive as I started binge watching some Netflix series (Emily in Paris, Younger).

But I really enjoyed Broken Country and cried through The River is Waiting.

Did you read any of these?  Do you have any to recommend?

And my quest for activities were still

Happy Running! How has your year gone? Any plans made for next year? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) 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

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Weekly Run Down for 12.21.25-12.28.25: Happy Holidays!

I do love it when Hanukkah and Christmas are around the same time. Since I celebrate both.

Of course, Christmas is much more festive.

Gotta love ChatGPT!

In case you missed it on FB and IG, here is this year’s card:

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Since my granddaughter would be visiting her other grandparents on Christmas Day, we had breakfast with her this morning and gave her our gifts.

After that HUGE breakfast, I was thrilled that my friend Jenny asked me to go for a walk with her.

It was so cold and windy… frozen but we managed to get in 6 miles…

And I worked off enough calories (maybe) to be able to go to my SIL’s for dinner.

lots of food and this was dessert…

  • Monday – WFH this week. Hooray.

I started off the day at the gym and then After work, I got in a short run before another predicted snowfall…

same route as last week but this time, Jenny accompanied me…

  • Tuesday – I kept waiting for the snow… It never arrived… just  some drizzling so I able to go out to dinner to belatedly celebrate my BFF’s birthday.

  • Wednesday – WFH (and I slept in instead of going to the gym although my cat woke me up at 4 am so I didn’t really sleep…)

Today Jenny and I were able to squeeze in a short WINDY run during lunch.

dry roads…

How did I celebrate Christmas Eve?

Eating leftovers and binge watching the rest of the Emily in Paris episodes.

Emily In Paris Season 5 Release Date, Cast, Plot - All You Need To Know About The Netflix Show | Outlook India

yes, I know it’s very silly and unrealistic but I love the fashion, food and sights…

  • Thursday – DAY OFF – Christmas Day!

more help from AI..

Looking ahead to the weekend weather, I decided to get in my long run since my family dinner was not until 3 pm.  Jenny who was training for Tokyo joined me for some of her miles.   She ran 12 miles and I did 8 (with some big hills!!) Thanks again to AI for making it look like Christmas. LOL

  • Friday- WFH again… finally dragged myself to the gym.

feels like 1 degree but a beautiful sunrise.

I had planned on skipping mah jongg in favor of a Boxing Day party with the hubby.

But it got cancelled due the impending snowstorm.

  • Saturday – LONG RUN and Brunch. Luckily, I had already done my long run on Thursday.

And yes, we did get that snowstorm…

I waited until my hubby cleared our driveway, bundled up (as it was FREEZING) and headed to UAlbany where I hoped there would be a clear path or road to run on.

mostly clear … glad that I remembered hand warmers!!!

  • Sunday – Run w/friends, nail appt, ???

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – gym, running group holiday party
  • Tuesday – run, walk
  • Wednesday – run, NYE dinner out
  • Thursday – DAY OFF – WS #2 Race (3.5 m)
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch, hair appt.
  • Sunday – gym,??

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – 4th Quarter Update
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races?  Any vacations planned?  How did you celebrate the holidays? Have you joined the AI bandwagon? Anyone watch Emily in Paris? 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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Runfessions for December 2025

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

The last one of 2025…

1.I runfess…

I was planning to run the Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon again when I am in Florida in February.

But with TWO half marathons scheduled for March, I decided NOT to sign up (Are you disappointed, Jenny?)

2. I runfess…

That being said, you know that I rarely travel anywhere without a race scheduled…

When I was recovering from a sprained ankle, instead of the half marathon, I ran a local 5k in Florida.

I loved that race (and met Jeannie Rice) but they changed the date this year until later in the month.

No worries. I found a new 5k.

Darlene Cardillo's Avatar

8th Anniversary
Sat. February 14, 2026
Bradley Park • Palm Beach, FL
 Race Starts: 8:00 AM
100% of All Proceeds Go Directly To Depression Research

3. I runfess…

But yes, I do plan to run BOTH half marathons in March.  I’ve never run TWO half marathons 6 days apart!!

Wish me luck!!

SUDC Foundation | United Airlines NYC Half – March 15, 2026

March 15, 2026

2026 — Asheville Marathon and Half — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising

March 21, 2026

4. I runfess…

My annual miles is the lowest ever…(even with no injuries).

I’m healthy so that’s all that matters.

5. I runfess…

I’ve mentioned that I didn’t want to run a trail race but I got outvoted.

It wasn’t so bad…

I didn’t fall.  LOL

And who knew it would be so much fun… a different animal from road racing.

But I have no future plans on racing trails (No offense Jenny.)

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? 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, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

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

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=c0efdbe6b4add43dd7ef

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2025 RunFluent Christmas Race

actually, a 7k (4.4 mi) and started at 8:00 AM

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever.

After our girls’ weekend in the Finger Lakes in September 2023, we were anxious to plan another race-cation.

My running friend, Deirdre (who winters in Florida) suggested the Hot Chocolate 15k in Tampa. Heidi & I raced (Deirdre was injured) and we had so much fun than we repeated our visit last December.

We had signed up for a 10k but after we registered, they changed the race date to January.

We still made the trip but no race.

just a fun trail run

Unfortunately, they kept the January race date so we had to choose a different race.

35th Annual Say No To Drugs Holiday Classic 5K, 10K & 1 Mile Kids Race

This was NOT a race that I would choose as it is on trails (I do NOT race on trails!) but I agreed since the date and location worked for the others.

So I signed up for the RunFluent Christmas 7k because:

  • Florida in December!
  • A weekend away with my running friends.
  • A running friend winters nearby, and she offered us a free place to stay.
  • Peer pressure!
  • We got matching holiday-themed tank tops.

Race Description:

  • Back for year #3.
  • 4 miler OR 7 hour multi lap!!!
  • Race Day T-shirt for all participants
  • Finisher awards for all finishers!
  • Awards for Top 3 male/female each distance!!!
  • Special award for anyone reaching a 50k by the 7th hour!!
  • Cash prize for 1st Place each distance male/female!!!
  • There will also be additional “trinkets” for each lap completed in the 7 hour event
  • Multiple Loop (for the 7 hour race)
  • Elevation = Rolling, ~2500 feet in 50 miles or 7 hours
  • Surface = Mostly groomed trail or dirt roads

The Course according to my watch:

Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I did run a 10K on Thanksgiving Day

and then 6 and 7 mile runs on the weekends before this race.

yup, had to find some dry paths to do it…

But, again my goal for this race was just finishing especially since I would NOT be acclimated to the temps and/or humidity and trails scare me. There would be a lot of walking and looking at my feet.

My goal would be NOT TO FALL!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

We arrived very late Thursday evening and first thing Friday morning, I went out for a run in the neighborhood to try to get used to the heat/humidity. Fortunately, it was not that warm (for Florida but warm for me.)

And then out to lunch (where I met up with my ex-SIL whom I hadn’t seen in over 20 years.)

In the evening, we carb loaded on homemade pizza and went to a concert.

I’m usually pretty good about watching what I eat the night before a race… but this time I was very relaxed about the whole thing. There was a mimosa at lunch and beer at dinner. LOL.

Forecast:

perfect temps for an early morning race…

Race Day:

As I always do, I brought my race day breakfast from home: oatmeal.  Up at 5:15 am and ready to leave at 6:15 am.

my travel buddy Heidi and our hosts Deirdre and Kevin

We arrived around 7 am and picked up our shirts and bibs.

There were real restrooms – always a plus.

And then we just hung out as they were setting things up.

Kevin planned on at least 50k

with 2 new friends – Donna & Ben

yes, we wore matching tanks

the 7 hour runners brought their families and everything they needed to be comfortable

used after the first lap

At 7:40, they gave directions followed by a prayer and the national anthem.

the finish line and where we started

Deirdre told me not to worry because Florida trails are not like upstate NY trails.  They are flat and sandy with an occasional root…

She was right.

I decided to stick with Deirdre and Heidi (although they run much slower than I do) and follow their 30:30 intervals.   It was perfect and if I got ahead, I just waited for them to catch up.

this was grassy section

The trails were very pretty and with lake views at times.

sandy section

There were several water stops… no cups because in your swag was a collapsible cup.  I was not really thirsty but if I was running a longer distance; it would have been great.  Around mile 2.5, we passed our car but then the course continued and eventually the finish was in sight.

I sprinted ahead and I was able to cheer on my two friends.

Post Race Activities:

They gave us our medals…

And now it was time to relax…

Nope, Deirdre and I decided it was too nice a day and we went back on the course…

Once we hit the car, we called it a day (or 2.5  more miles).

Deirdre’s friend Donna was still running (and ended after 22 miles) and Kevin and his friend Ben were going for a 50k.

We cheered for them every time they passed us..

We changed our clothes, had lunch that we brought and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience.

I understand why many runner enjoy trails and ultra races.  So relaxed.  Everyone was so friendly and enthusiastic.

modeling our matching race shirts

Finally, everyone was finished and so we went out to celebrate…

Additional Race Reflections:

The race was fun. It was even better running it with friends and with good weather.  The race directors did a great job organizing all the details of this event.

I know that I could have pushed myself and gotten a faster time.  But I wanted to stay with my friends and just enjoy the whole day.

If I run this race again, I plan to sign up for the 7  hr. option and try to run 3 loops (and that would be a half marathon).

The Good:

  • Well  organized before, during  and after.
  • Real restrooms
  • Amble parking
  • Food for 7hr runners.
  • Collapsible cups provided to all runners
  • Well marked course
  • Flat and scenic course
  • Baby socks and pacifiers collected and donated to a charity.
  • Raffle for those who donated to the charity
  • 7k and 7hr options
  • Perfect running weather.
  • Enthusiastic participants and supporters.
  • Running with friends
  • Thousands of professional looking photos

The Bad:

  • Nada

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.  For all the reasons above.

Final Stats:

 my time was 1:05:02

Next Up:

3 free fun races and then:

2025 NYRR Manhattan 10K Race Reviews | New York, NY

Feb, 1, 2026

Happy Running! Ever run a trail race? If so, did you enjoy it?

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

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Weekly Run Down for 12.12.25-12.21.25: Brrr!

I’m back in the Northeast and I think it feels colder since I was in Florida for several days…

I’m so grateful to be able to escape for a few days and am already looking forward to February.  I’ll be more than ready to leave these cold temps again.

Last Week –

  • Friday – Although due to missing our connecting flight, we didn’t arrive at our friends’ place until 1:30 am, I was up bright and early to enjoy the warmer temps and go for a run.

sunshine & no layers= ❤

Then we went out to lunch and I met up with my ex-SIL (whom I hadn’t seen in over 20 years!)

sisters forever!! (and my favorite shrimp n grits)

For dinner, we carb loaded on homemade pizza and then went to a holiday concert.

  • Saturday – RUNFluent Christmas Race. There was a 7k and a 7 hr race.  Heidi, Deirdre and I opted for the 7k which was only one loop.

We decided to stay together and run 30:30 intervals.  The course was flatter and less challenging that I expected… and so much fun!!

After we were done, Deirdre & I went out for another loop and then we hung around to cheer on the other runners,  many of whom completed a 50k.

the guys were running the 50k

Of course, a celebratory late lunch followed and drinks and some hot tub time in the evening.

  • Sunday – I had to take advantage of the weather and again went out for an early neighborhood run.

I could get used to this…

After my run, we went out to breakfast.  And in the afternoon, we went to an outdoor bar and played music bingo (nope, no one won) and eventually went out to an early dinner.

We spent a relaxing evening in and watched a Hallmark movie: Oy to the World (in honor of the first night of Hanukkah.)

  • Monday – Last day of vacation and last warm weather run.

We were treated to homemade strawberry waffles and then headed to the airport.

No flight drama for our return flights home.

  • Tuesday – Back to reality and cold weather.

I had the morning off from work. So I headed to the gym first thing, then some grocery shopping, laundry and cooking.

In the afternoon, I went to the office and eventually to set up for my class the next day.

I met my BFF in the evening for a walk…

  • Wednesday – First of 3 days of live classes….

That meant Starbucks on the way…

and to bundle up and search out dry pavement for a post work run…

in town and not as cold as previous days…

  • Thursday – Same as the day before except that after work I attended my annual tennis friends holiday party.

fun evening with lots of food, music, gifts, etc…

  • Friday- Last day of live teaching and mah jongg in the evening. Though it warmed up, it rained most of the day.  Good news: Snow is mostly gone.
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch.

Though, the paths were clear of snow, the temps had dropped again and so I was wondering if the rail trail would be clear or would I end up at UAlbany?

phew, clear sailing..

Unfortunately, I had to run/walk my 8 miles solo but met (walking) friends after for brunch.

  • Sunday – Plan to play Santa with my granddaughter (since she is spending Christmas with her other grandparents).  Then hit the gym, run some errands and eventually have dinner at  my SIL’s…

FYI:  Had to  join the cool kids with ChatGPT:

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run 
  • Tuesday – run, b-day dinner with BFF, walk
  • Wednesday – gym
  • Thursday – run, Christmas dinner with the fam
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch
  • Sunday – gym, ??

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – RunFluent Christmas Race Recap 
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races?  Any vacations planned?  Do you like trail racing? Are you dealing with snow or ice? 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: Motivational Quotes That Keep You Going

For Today’s Post, I am picking FIVE Quotes that keep me going when running seems hard:

1.”Pain is temporary. Quitting lasts forever.” ~ Lance Armstrong

2.“Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must, just never give up.” ~ Dean Karnazes

3. “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.”~ Lucille Ball

4. “When you feel like giving up, remember why you started.” ~ Confuscius

5.

Happy Running! What keeps you going? 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, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

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

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=c0efdbe6b4add43dd7ef

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TT: 2025 in Photos

This week’s topic is: Your Year in Photos 

Definitely one of my favorites topics because I LOVE to take pictures. The challenge was limiting each month to ONE or TWO pictures.

Here you go:

January

A work visit to NYC to start off the year.

Running some local fun races.

February

My annual vacation to Florida’s East coast to visit friends 

Convincing a fellow blogger to join me in a Florida Half Marathon.

March

Racing in a New Place – Rock n Roll Half Marathon in DC

Meeting Up  with Bloggers in DC

April

and in NYC

Completing one of my favorite local half marathons (in miserable weather).


May (my favorite month)

Visiting Naumkeag in MA (on my birthday)

Enjoying my annual tennis trip to Naples, Fla.

June

Participating in the Run for Women for the 18th time (in the rain.)

Visiting the NY Botanical Gardens

Finally Running the NYC Mini 10k in Central Park

July

Celebrating the Fourth in (running) style.

Celebrating Bastille Day with College Buddies.

Touring Brooklyn

Spending Sundays on Lake George 

August

Tiptoeing through the Sunflowers!!

Visiting a college roommate on LI.

Celebrating my granddaughter’s 2nd birthday

and my MIL’s 100th.

September

Seeing Autumn Glow

Running a 10k on Governor’s Island

Starting up Monday Hikes 

October

SVU Fangirling while on a work trip  to NYC

Another Successful Race-cation.. this year in Lake Placid.

Celebrating 50+ Years of Friendship

Competing in two 5k races in one day

November

Spectating at the NYC marathon and celebrating our friends’ achievement.

Running a popular local 15k

Coaching Runners to their first 5k.

Turkey Trotting with Friends

December

Saying Good-Bye to One of My “Sole Sisters” (Denise, the one in black)

Seeing NYC at its finest.

Traveling to FL to meet up with Friends (and run a trail race) 

Happy Running! What was your favorite photo or event from 2025? 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