January 28, 2025 by Darlene

My Word(s) for 2025

one little word // Crafty Ass Female.jpg

Well, it’s that time of year. Time to pick ONE WORD to focus on for the entire year. (If you’ve never heard about the My One Word approach, here is a summary:

Lose the long the list of changes you want to make this year and instead pick one word. This process forces clarity by taking all of your big plans for life change and narrowing them down into a single thing. Your one word focuses on your character and creates a vision for your future.)

Below is a list of the words, I’ve chosen so far:

2014: ACCEPTANCE
2015: BELIEVE
2016: GRATITUDE
2017: RELAX
2018: ADAPT
2019: RE-FOCUS
2020: PATIENCE
2021: RESILIENCE
2022: INTENTIONAL
2023: REJUVENATE
2024: JOY

So how did I find JOY in 2024?

Completed 5 Half Marathons and 15 other races including my Third Marathon
Became a Cat Mom to two tuxedos
Enjoyed time with family and friends.
Continued hiking on my Mondays off.
Traveled to Florida 3 times
Participated in our Sole Sister Race-Cation in Cape Cod
Read lots of books while relaxing on the islands of Lake George.
Visited the local trails in the Summer on Thursday evenings
Enjoyed the sights and sounds of NYC when working there

21708178453-bridge-the-gap-take-stock-palm-beach-county-coastal-click-photography

What about 2025?

What word did I choose?

Well, I’m kinda obsessed with WICKED (the movie) so I was was tempted to choose this word:

Unlike Elphaba, I am not going to fly…

But like Elphaba, I will not be trying to fit into that cookie-cutter mold what society says I am supposed to be..

So as an almost 72 year old, I plan to Defy Gravity by

Working Full Time
Running Long Races
Traveling Alone or with Friends
Staying Healthy
Trying New Things (see below)

Wicked

But that’s TWO words so instead in 2025, I’m choosing:

As you get older, you also tend stay in your comfort zone, get in a rut, do the same old, same old…

I’m breaking out in 2025.

New Races. New Hobbies. New Experiences. New Travels. New Habits. New Meet-Ups. New Eateries… The choices are Unlimited.

And I’m open to suggestions.

Happy Running! Do you choose a Word each year? If so, what have you chosen one for 2025? Have you seen the Wicked movie? Please share.

runner-sig

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

I’m also linking up here tomorrow:

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

January 25, 2025 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.19.25-1.26.24: Status Quo and a Cold One

My NYC work is mostly over (unless a trainer retires, gets sick or goes on vacation).

So it’s mostly WFH with the occasional live teaching locally.

And freezing my butt off running after work or at lunch (if time) trying to get ready to tackle 13.1 miles on Feb. 16 in Florida.

Last Week –

Sunday – I started the day off at the gym (which has become my weekly routine) and then I met a friend to go out to lunch and to a flower show at a local cathedral.

Then the snowstorm arrived…

Monday – HOLIDAY DAY OFF and I woke up to this:

our first snowstorm

I went to the gym, did some errands and procrastinated in getting out to run…

Single digits with the wind chill… but the sidewalks were shoveled in town and so I survived…

I was even inspired (by FB) on a day off to cook something different: Chick peas, spinach, and rosemary pasta in a cream sauce (I added chicken).

: NY Times version

: mine

Tuesday – WFH day and I didn’t want to leave the house:

I decided to go into the office in the afternoon which meant that I could run after work at UAlbany…

they were right…. it was soooooooo cold!

but at least it wasn’t as windy as the day before

After I thawed out, I had to go out again to a mini party at a Chinese restaurant.

Wednesday – WFH day and back to the gym first thing…

actually my car read -13 degrees!!

That called for a rest day from running outside…

After work, I stopped by to visit my granddaughter…

sooo big…

and after I met my BFF for a walk around the mall (where it was warm. LOL)

Thursday – Continued with my morning gym visit on a WFH day.

I postponed my run until after work hoping that it would be warmer than the previous day…

I had to run in the road since the sidewalk’s were pretty icy…

yes, it was warmer but it still felt very cold!!

Friday – Rest Day – Nothing but WFH today with mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. 11 miles!! We retuned to the Crossings where the paths were mostly clear.

Again, I was fortunate to have company for 8 of my 11 miles…

no wind and bright sunshine made all the difference…

After brunch, I had to rush home because I signed up to volunteer at the NY Fitness Expo

New York Fitness Expo

representing this race

Sunday – I plan to run/walk slowly 3.5 mi. at the HMRRC Winter Series #4:

In the evening, finally getting out to celebrate our anniversary.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – gym, run
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – run
Thursday – dinner out w/tennis ladies
Friday- mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (and Brunch) – 12 miles!
Sunday – gym, ??

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – My Word
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s the weather? Are you still able to run outdoors? 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.

January 24, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Favorite Running-Related Books

Set your summer reading goals : Life Kit : NPR

I do love to read. I admit that I do not often read running-related books.

But sometimes I do and here are FIVE of my all time favorites:

If you need help in choosing a running-related book, check out these Runner’s World recommendations:

So many books, so little time…

Happy Running! Have you read of any of the above? What is your favorite running-related book? 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 bloggers.

January 21, 2025 by Darlene

TT: Mental Benefits to Running (in January)

Running in Cold Weather Tips: How to Run Outside in the Winter | SELF

Do you hesitate to go for a run outdoors when it is freezing?

Here’s why you should bite the bullet and ditch the treadmill, if possible:

Running releases feel-good chemicals:

Running releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which can improve your mood.

This is important in all seasons but often more needed in the cold weather months.

Running reduces symptoms of depression:

Regular exercise such as running can help reduce symptoms of depression.

Ever get that post-holiday blues?

Running improves sleep:

Running in the morning can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

And since it gets darks so early now, morning is the best time to run.

Running increases confidence:

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

Setting and achieving running goals can help you feel more confident and accomplished.

Now is the time to start on those goals.

Running improves focus:

Nature can provide a break from daily stimuli, which can help improve focus.

Do you stare at the computer most of the day?

Try to take a break and go for a run…

Running increases energy:

Exercising outdoors (by going for a run) can increase your energy levels.

No matter how tired you feel, if you go outside for a run, you will feel more energized when you return indoors.

While Running you absorb vitamin D:

The sun provides vitamin D, which can improve your mood and energy levels.

Obviously it’s best to go for a run on a sunny day but there is still more vitamin D outdoors on a cloudy day than inside.

Happy Running! Do you run outdoors in January? Why or why not? 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

January 18, 2025 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.12.25-1.19.25: New York, New York (again)

Yes, 5 days in NYC…

I tried to make the most of my time there since I’m not sure when or if I’ll be back there…

Last Week –

Sunday – I had originally planned to start the day with a free informal race.

But I decided the day before that it would be too rushed to run/walk the race and probably not smart to do it as a race the day after a 9 mile long run (in the snow).

Instead I went to the gym and I even walked a mile on the track afterward (that’s 15 loops).

Wouldn’t you know it, it was a beautiful day, blue skies, no wind… big FOMO when I viewed the race pics and comments.

After I checked into my NYC hotel, I walked along the High Line..

always new things to see on the High Line (FB has more pics.)

in order to end up in the Meatpacking District since holiday lights were still there. Then I walked back, grabbed dinner and finally ended up back at my hotel for the night.

believe it or not, I had dinner and a drink at Starbucks

Monday – Today my training was in the Financial District.

If time, I try to arrive early and stroll around the area.

After returning uptown to my hotel, I changed into running clothes and headed off to Central Park. And I caught the full moon as I was leaving to walk back to my hotel with a stop for dinner.

Tuesday – Again my training was in the Financial District.

After work, I wanted to get in a short run so I ran to the Hudson River and back (so cold and windy)

and then changed my clothes and headed to Broadway to see a show.

very cute and thought-provoking

Wednesday – After work in Jamaica, Queens, I had dinner plans with a college friend but I also had to switch hotels.

I decided against another cold and windy run and hopped the subway to her apt.

we ordered in, had drinks and chatted the evening away

Thursday – Working in Jamaica again and after had to take the train back home …
Friday – Recovering, unpacking and WFH with mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. 10 miles.

First double digit run since Nov. 3 (Marathon Day.)

With ice and snow on all the paths, it was a challenge to find a place to run. But we parked at The Crossings and ran around the neighborhoods. I was grateful to have Barbara’s company for 6 of my miles… and then we joined the others at brunch.

temps were warmer than they have been and than they are going to be this week, but the wind was torture...

Sunday – Most likely hit the gym in the morning and meet a friend to see the Cathedral in Bloom followed by lunch

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – DAY OFF – run
Tuesday – gym, walk w/my BFF
Wednesday – run
Thursday – gym, run
Friday- gym, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (and Brunch) – 11 miles, volunteer at NY Fitness Expo
Sunday – gym, HMRRC Winter Series #4?

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Mental Benefits for Running (in January)
Friday – 5 Favorite Running-Related Books

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s the weather? Are you able to get it done outdoors? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

January 17, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: New Races for 2025

One of my goals for 2025 is to run new races!!

So here are a few that I hope to race:

1.Electric City 10k.

Electric City 10K

Several years ago I ran it when it was only a 5 miler (in a blizzard.)

2. Rock Roll DC Half Marathon.

I’m rooming with my friend Sue but there are 3 other local runners doing it. I also hope to meetup with a local friend who moved to DC and with those DC bloggers!!.

3.Mastercard NY Mini 10k. (if I get in)

This is the last of the NYC races on my bucket list. 10k women runners from all over the world…

4.Ellen’s Run.

I stumbled upon this 5k race when I was visiting my college roommate on LI last August. It raises money for breast cancer.

5. Squirrel Stampede 10k.

Another NYCRUNS race on Governor’s Island but it should be cooler than my last attempt, the Ice Cream Social 10k.

6. Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon.

Every October, my local running friends and I pick a race and rent a house in the area for 4 days. This is is our race pick for 2025.

7. Say No to Drugs 10k (if it is scheduled next December in FL.)

A chance to run along the water in Clearwater…

Happy Running! Running any NEW races in 2025? 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 bloggers.

January 14, 2025 by Darlene

TT: Setting Realistic Fitness Goals

It’s that time of year when we are thinking about our fitness goals for the coming year.

Here’s some advice on how make sure they are achievable (or realistic).

Set Your Goals Around the Process, Not the Outcome.

It’s tempting to set your sights on the outcome that you want, like running a sub 2 hour half marathon.

It’s better to build your goals around the process, such as, running consistently by following a half marathon training plan or completing weekend long runs.

Choose a Fitness Activity You’ll Actually Want to Do.

Another temptation that people often fall to is to sign themselves up at the nearest gym and throw themselves into a routine that they think they should do, whether or not they actually enjoy it.

You’ll be much more likely to stick with fitness activities if you look forward to doing them.

Don’t be afraid to try a few different things, like pickle ball, spinning, Zumba, kickboxing, lifting weights.

It may take some trial and error but keep an open mind and you’ll find a fitness activity that you look forward to and enjoy.

Don’t be afraid to experiment or ask for help.

There are plenty of fitness apps that can provide guidance for any form of fitness activity that you’d like to explore.

Maybe even hire a coach to help you train for a race or help with your workout routines.

Match Your Goals to Your Personal Confidence Levels.

When setting your goals, think about this-on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being Not confident and 10 being Extremely confident, how confident do you feel that you can meet the goal that you’ve set?

Research indicates that if your confidence level is anything lower than 7 then it’s best to modify your goals.

IOW, how confident are you in running a sub 5 hour marathon? Perhaps start out with a goal of completing a marathon.

Start From Where You Are.

If you’re just starting to run for the first time in a long time, don’t set a highly aggressive goal that again, you don’t feel extremely confident that you can maintain.

Not only are you likely to hit a wall, but you’re opening yourself up to getting injured.

Remember that you can always build on your progress by (gradually) increasing the frequency and duration of your runs.

Think About What You’re Adding to Your Diet, Rather Than What You’re Taking Away.

Yes, you’ll have to cut back on those cookies and alcoholic beverages that you indulged in over the holidays, but don’t make what you are not eating the center of your attention.

Instead focus on the healthy things that you’re going to be eating instead, like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains and hopefully, you’ll find that the less healthy choices fall away on their own.

Happy Running! Any other tips that you use to set fitness goals that are realistic? 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

January 11, 2025 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.5.25-1.12.25: Home Sweet Home

I’m home all week!!

Well, until today.

Last Week –

Sunday – I re-joined the gym!!

I got a lot of errands done and then met a friend for lunch…

no snow where I live and obviously some just north…

Monday – DAY OFF!!

Another day to get stuff accomplished including de-holidaying the house..

It was freezing and I waited until it warmed up to go for a run…

brr.. I never warmed up on this one…

I also fit in a visit with my granddaughter… (sorry no pics.)

Tuesday – I started my day at the gym…

WFH but I went into the office in the afternoon and after work, I met a former co-worker for many laps (walking) around the track at the gym and then I met my BFF for a walk (around the mall).

No running miles today but many walking miles (indoors)!

Wednesday – WFH again and it was freezing and windy.. so windy that the temps were in negative single digits with the wind chill.

I waited until after work and headed to the rail trail to gut it out…

good news- it was still light out!! bad news – my face almost froze off…

Thursday – I went back to the gym first thing and then crossed my fingers that it would be less windy than the day before.

Nope. Worse!

I waited until after work and again went to the rail but to a different section of it,

soooooo cold!!!!!!!!! I hate winter!!

Friday – Again I started the day at the gym and then stayed indoors working all day.

Since it was a rest day, of course, it was warmer (in the 20s) and the wind had calmed down…

But I was hosting mah jongg tonight so that meant cleaning and preparing…

Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. 9 miles on the plan… It had to be better than my frigid weekday runs although snow had been predicted…

Yup, it snowed and no one wanted to venture outside. But I convinced Deb to join me for 5 miles. And it turned out to be the best running weather of the week.

no wind and the snow was light and fluffy and easy to run on…

Sunday – I had planned to run/walk the HMRRC Winter Series #3 – 3.5m

and then take the train to NYC. Since I’d be there until Thursday night, there would be no reason to rush and take an early train.

But in hindsight with slippery conditions, not a lot of time to spare (plus I had run 9 miles the day before), I decided that instead of the race I will go to the gym before I head to the train station…

After I check into my hotel, I hope to take a long walk and in the evening check out the light displays in the Meatpacking District.

Snowpeople & Holliday Lights Make a Festive Return to The Meatpacking District - GothamToGo

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run? dinner with friends?
Tuesday – run? Broadway show
Wednesday – run? dinner with college friend
Thursday – train home (our 26th anniversary)
Friday- gym, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (and Brunch) – 10 miles!
Sunday – gym

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Setting Realistic Fitness Goals
Friday – New Races in 2025

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s the weather? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

January 10, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Running Goals for 2025

Here are my goals for the coming year:

1. Stay Healthy.

This is the most important one as it affects your whole life not just running.

Injuries happen but hopefully there will be none in 2025.

2. Work Out.

I hate to admit it but I did miss my gym visits. I’m not one to work out at home so I re-joined… and now I need to GO!

3.Walk more often.

I seem prioritize running and on off days, do nothing.

I need to also squeeze in some walks before work or at lunch.

4.Run New Races.

There’s a comfort level with running those races that you have done before.

And a risk to picking a bad one… but you don’t know until you try…

5. Stay Positive.

The paces are slowing down… The miles are getting harder…

If I CAN run, it’s all good.

Happy Running! Did you set some goals for 2025? 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 bloggers.

January 7, 2025 by Darlene

The Best of 2024

I do this post every year and I almost forgot this year.

Best Picture from a Race: HELDERBERG TO HUDSON HM

Best Weather during a Race: TCS NYC MARATHON

Best Race Swag: HOT CHOCOLATE 15K (VIRTUAL)

love this jacket

Best Age Group Award: CAPE COD HM

Best Race Refreshments: RUN 4 THE RIVER HM (beer, pizza, mac n cheese) and BARN 2 BRIDGE FALL FEST 5K (ice cream, chocolate milk, cheeseburger & fries)