Author: Darlene

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Weekly Run Down for 12.7.20-12.13.20: Happy Chanukah!

This week was a mixed bag.

It started on a high note.  Having just run a real race and had a mini vacay in NYC, I felt energized.

I am smiling beneath that gaiter 🙂

I took off a day from work this week and the weather was perfect for a run and a hike.

Things went downhill from there.

My external laptop monitor died (which is essential for my job). Not a big deal, I ordered a new one (and hooked up temporarily an old one).

But by the end of the week, I was in tears. My daughter-in-law lost the baby (at 15 weeks). No words for how devastated my family is.

Back to running. (I felt I had to share even though it’s personal because I posted in the Coffee Date that I was going to be a grandmother.)

Last Week –

  • Monday – Walking around NYC in boots rather than running shoes made my feet ache so I decided to call it a rest day. It was cold and breezy so it wasn’t a hard decision.

I did keep my streak alive (I think I have one…) of taking a walk at lunch. And then a short after work before getting my nails and my errands (that got missed over the weekend) done.

  • Tuesday – Another cold dreary morning. Again not tempted to walk before work. But dragged myself out at lunch for a run. I froze!!!!

Not only cloudy but windy too. I looked when I was done and it was “feels like 15 degrees!!” Ouch.

After work, I was not even tempted to go outdoors for a walk or hike.  I, instead, went to the mall to get in some steps (in a warm environment.)

  • Wednesday – Woke up to snow showers…UGH!  But the snow did stop with not much accumulated.  Again, I skipped my morning walk but got out at lunch.

It was still flurrying a bit and cold but not as windy as the day before.  The only thing that was cold was my feet.  I wore my trail shoes since I ran on the roads and there was a lot of black ice.

and I didn’t take any books or dvds today lol

No walk after work since I had a hair appt.

so fun to complete a virtual race virtually with friends. Thanks Jenn for the collage.

  • Thursday – Today I had the day off from work. It was nice to be able to run in the morning. Though cold, it is my favorite time of day to run. And I had time to drive somewhere to run. I decided to go to the Crossings followed by a trip to Trader Joe’s.

I had signed up for one more NYRR virtual 5k (see pic above) so I officially completed it today. Sorta. My watch died.  I started out in the park but it was slushy and icy so I continued onto a snowy trail and eventually ran in the neighborhoods.

notice anything amiss in my photo?

In the afternoon, I planned to go on a hike. I went back to the Van Buren Nature Trails (that I had visited a few weeks ago.) My friend Jan agreed to meet me there.

there were 4 colored trails…somehow we didn’t complete what we had planned…back again for visit #3, I guess.

Tonight was the first night of Chanukah so I lit the candles.  No gifts exchanged here.

flowers from TJ’s – they last 3 weeks so I can always have flowers in my house 🙂

  • Friday – No running today. But got in a few chilly walks.

more cute balloons in the ‘hood

The longer one was done with a friend after work around the outdoor mall.

  • Saturday – Back on track with my Saturday Long Runs. This week, we returned to the Nisky Bike Path. We hoped to get it done (including brunch) before the predicted rain.

I got there early to run 4 miles with Karen and then ran 6 more with my other friends. 10 done for day. No reason to run this many miles since I have no idea when my next half will be but what the hell? It definitely felt harder than usual. I think that skipping the 10 miler (in lieu of a 5k + 15 mile walk) had an effect.  I need the consistency, I guess.

and yes, we’re still doing outdoor brunch

  • Sunday – My traditional hiking day.  Since I’ve never hiked in the winter, I was leery of going anywhere where there would be ice or snow. I guess that is pretty limiting to any of the pretty mountain hikes.

I decided on Amy’s Park up north since there were several easy trails to choose from.

There is a race there but it was changed to virtual this year.

It was rainy on my drive up but happily it stopped and turned out to be a very nice day.  The trail was quit wet and muddy so I hiked the easy yellow (in both directions). I was alittle disappointed in the trails being out and back,

always love a waterfall

Since it was along drive, I decided I wanted to do more hiking. I stopped at a preserve but realized that it was way too icy so I continued into town.  I passed Up Yonda Farms and took a chance that there would be nice trails there. What a treasure!! I’ve been boating for 15 years there and never visited these trails.

lots of different trails and of course, an awesome view of Lake George.

It was so nice that I stopped for ice cream (egg nogg – tis the season).

Nothing like a day out in nature to take you mind off things.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  morning off, run
  • Tuesday – DAY OFF, run, hike, mall walk with BFF
  • Wednesday –  rest day, funeral for my grandson
  • Thursday –  run
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day, hiking, college ZOOM

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Have the winter temps hit? How is your holiday decorating and shopping going? Does being out in nature cheer you up? Please share.

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Baby, It’s Cold Outside

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

I must say that I HATE the cold.  I much prefer running in the heat but living in the Northeast, the cold arrives too soon and lasts too long. And although, it’s ONLY December 11 (and not even officially winter) …it’s COLD!!

I think that about sums things up.

So here are my top tips to make it through running in the winter:

1. Layers keep you warm but remember not to dress too warmly.  If it is 20 degrees, dress for 40. The bottom layer should be breathable.  You will sweat no matter how cold it is. My middle layer is usually a fleece vest and for the outside layer, I wear a windbreaker or light jacket.

The infographic below is very helpful:

or use this tool that will suggest what to wear, based on the info you input – http://www.runnersworld.com/what-to-wear

2. But wear enough to stay warm. I always wear tights with a skirt over them (keeps my butt warm). I wear wool socks, gloves/mittens and a beanie.  My head, hands and feet are what gets cold first.

if you are properly dressed, you can smile in the cold.

3. If you run when it is dark (yes it gets dark so early), wear light colors, carry a flashlight or wear a head lamp and run where there are lights.

I prefer knuckle lights

4. If it is snowing, wear Yak Trax or put screws in your shoe bottoms, go slower and watch for icy patches.

love my Yaks but always hope I never have to wear them

5. Don’t worry about fashion.

I usually care what I wear in the warmer months. But in the winter, not so much. I try not to spend much money on winter running clothes. I wear old race shirts and vests and jackets from Target.  I buy gloves at Dollar Store. I use $1 cut off knee socks as arm warmers.

The important thing is to just get out and RUN! And talk your friends into doing the same.  Misery loves company LOL.

Remember:

beasts

Happy Running!  Do you like running during the cold weather months? Any other tips? Has it already gotten cold where you live?

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2020 Bling

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: Show us your year in bling? 

2020 was not a big year for “real” races so obviously my collection of bling was not large as in a normal year. Still, I did collect a few medals & swag.

In Person Races

Virtual Races

Virtual Challenges

Age Group Awards

Which ones were my favorite(s)?

The medals from the in-person races.  Those are actually the ones where I feel that I “earned” the bling.

The others were just from runs.  Those medals don’t have much meaning for me (though some are very nice.) But I did appreciate all of the swag that I received from many of the virtual events (esp. the gaiters).

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! Did you get a lot of bling this year?  Which was your favorite? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 11.30.20-12.6.20: NYC Bound?

Lots of running and good weather last week.

Hoping for more of the same though not optimistic for two weeks in a row. And unfortunately, there was quite a bit of rain this week.   In other words, getting wet on my runs.

My tentative plan for the weekend was to break away from my computer and go to NYC to race, meet up with friends, see the holiday decorations, etc.

But I waited until the last minute to decide: if I felt safe, if the predicted rain would happen and if I would have fun if wearing a mask for the entire weekend.

Stay tuned…

Last Week –

  • Monday – Normally my run day (#nevemissamonday) but there was hard rain on the way. I managed to sneak in a run outside before work (not early enough for sunrise). It was cloudy, humid but the forecast lied.  It started to rain as soon as I started running. The rain was light until the last mile.

I’m smiling because I found in one of the small library boxes, a copy of two of my favorite holiday videos. Yes, I stuffed them inside my waist band and ran 2 miles like that. Who doesn’t love “Love Actually”?

It rained harder as the day wore on…not even tempted to go for lunch walk.  Only ventured out after work to do errands.

  • Tuesday – Woke up to pouring rain again!  And then the power went off. I ventured out to see what was wrong since it was only raining lightly.  Got in only a mile before I got drenched. Without Internet, I could not work.  When the rain lightened, I went out again.  This time the rain stopped and the sun came out.  A power line had come down and by 10:15 am, we had power back and I could work.

actually very warm out and got my unplanned run done in two installments.

It looked like the temps would be dropping so I went for a walk during lunch. And indeed, windy and much colder than the morning. Dressed warmer for my post work walk.

  • Wednesday – Another cloudy cold morning with rain/snow on the way. I did get in a walk at lunch… I thought about running but just didn’t feel like it.  After work, I decided to venture out. It was less windy but still COLD! I should have checked the forecast because as soon as I started to run, it started to rain. Light at first but then it changed to freezing rain (the third day in a row getting wet on the run!!) I stopped my run at that point and headed to the library to return some books. Then the rain stopped and I finished my run.  At this point it felt delightful.

pt 1 on the rail trail and pt 2 in town and the neighborhood

  • Thursday – It looked finally like a day without rain.  There was even some sunshine though colder than previous days. I walked at lunch at a nearby nature preserve.

I hadn’t been in awhile…sure looked different without all the leaves on the trees…and boy, was it MUDDY!

After work, I met a friend to run through the holidays lights in the park… so fun.

Then I met my BFF for our usual 1.5 hr walk around an outdoor mall.

  • Friday – Debating all morning about the rainy forecast for NYC. Normally I would not mind but I planned to walk (rather than take the subway), eat take out (rather than in restaurants), visit the sites (rather than shop) … all would not be fun in the pouring rain.

I eventually opted to slow short run at lunch (yes, 5 days in a row) but then skip my long run on Saturday. (My group wasn’t gathering anyway due to the rain forecast.)

Hit for the water line since it was more convenient & I felt like avoiding the cars and dog walkers in the ‘hood. Even on a cloudy day, you can find beauty in nature.

Ended the day with some errands (in prep for my NYC trip) and my usual friends walk.

  • Saturday – A lazy morning (skipped my walk) but packed instead. I had decided to take an afternoon train to NYC.  My plan was to avoid traipsing around all day in the rain and just stay later on Sunday.

I arrived around 4 pm, checked into my hotel.  It was almost sunset so I rushed to the Vessel (I had pre-bought tix) to get in a view.  (and it was no longer raining and not cold.)

It never disappoints…even prettier than the pics.

Then I continued to walk around the area taking in the festive atmosphere.

Sixth Avenue, Saks, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, etc

I tried to make it an early night and get my #flatme settled.  It is hard when you are not at home (and you have plan for pre-race, race and post-race dress options.)

I didn’t know how COLD and windy it would be the next morning…

  • Sunday – Race Day – Winter Classic 5k – Got up bright and early (after a sleepless night) and took an Uber to the start. Made through all the COVID safety protocols and cautiously ran a hilly COLD 5k in Riverside Park. (Recap coming on Dec. 15.)

no watch and my slowest 5k in forever but I did it and it was worth it!!

I had done bag check so I could hang around after the race (and not freeze) and meet my friend Elizabeth. We spent hours in the park exploring parts that I rarely get to when I come to NYC.

don’t let those blue skies fool you. it was chilly.

Then, I walked umpteen blocks back to my hotel, changed my clothes and took more of the holiday sights of the city before getting an evening train home.

fifth avenue!! 18 miles walked today (counts as my long run??)

So happy to have decided to take a weekend away. No better place to get in the holiday spirit (even in a mask) than NYC.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  rest day
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday –  rest day. hair appt
  • Thursday – DAY OFF, run, hike
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day, hiking

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” races yet?  Have you decorated for the holidays yet? Do you usually go to NYC or a big to see all the decorations? Please share.

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Ultimate Coffee Date for December

It’s that time of the month…

Running Therapy

to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

Yes, it’s been that kind of month..

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I always set 1000 miles as my yearly goal for running.  I’ve only reached that milestone twice (2016 & 2017).  But it means that I’ve been consistent with my running and didn’t have too many injuries.  I was pretty sure that due to my painful neuroma, toe and bunion plus the strained SI joint, I would not reach it this year. But I just may. Stay tuned…

just getting in the miles with the help of my friends.

Do you have yearly, monthly or weekly mileage goals?

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’m still struggling with remembering what to wear when it is cold out.  I run “hot.”  And I can’t stand to be warm when I run.  I get sweaty and then afterward, I am really chilled.  I hope I figure it out before spring. LOL

still wearing the extra jacket and having to tie it around my waist – ugh!

Are you successful in dressing properly when the seasons change?

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am not sure when my next half marathon will be.  As of now, there are NONE scheduled in my area. There are two that I’m eyeing for February in Florida.  But who can make plans with the rise in COVID cases. Nevertheless, I’ve decided to try to keep up my run at least 10 miles on Saturday streak.

It’s a little challenging in the cold weather and when no one else is running that many miles

Do you run double digit runs even if you are not training for a race?

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the pandemic is lasting longer than I ever thought.  I’m not a gym person but I did go when I couldn’t run to use the stationary bike.  Of course, I thought by winter, it would be open again. Nope. Not happening.  I’m debating on what to do when it is unsafe to run outside (snow, ice).  I’m not a treadmill person but maybe a spin bike???

I’ve only tried one in the hotel in NYC

Any recommendations?  Not a Peleton but an inexpensive spin bike? 

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I don’t like to share all the doom and gloom in my life on the blog (not judging anyone who needs to) but now I have good news.

All four of my immediate family members who were very sick with COVID seem to be on the mend.  Phew.  It was very scary.

I hope none of you personally have to deal with this awful virus.

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

Happy Running! Got anything to spill? Share it here!
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Holiday Gifts for Runners

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

The Topic this week is: Holiday Gifts

When your spouse, family members or friends ask what you want for the holidays, here are a few things that you could tell them:

  • A Gift card for Running Shoes

Just because you are not racing doesn’t mean that new shoes won’t spice up your runs.

  • Sunglasses

If you’re like me, you always either lose them or break them.

Image result for goodr

Love Goodr glasses

  • Socks

Yes, I often lose one and only my good ones.

Image result for balega socks

  • Entry fee to a big race  A Massage Gun

You don’t need a name brand (like Theragun).  There are many out there that are inexpensive.  I have one and it works great!

addsfit MAX massage gun

  • A new GPS Watch

I still prefer my Garmin 205 LOL

Introducing the Garmin Forerunner 645 and 645 Music. (Photo: Business Wire)

  • A Cute Shirt

Who doesn’t love a running shirt with a crazy saying?

  • A Buff/Gaiter/Head Band

To be used for the cold weather and/or COVID protection.

Camouflage Skiing Headwear Mask Cycling Neck Buffs Tubular Cycling Bandana Outdoor Sports Turban Magic Scarves Multifunctional Scarf Hooded Scarf Scarves For Men From Allen520hannah, $89.45| DHgate.Com

  • A Cool Coffee Mug

Shop Our Coffee Mugs for Runners

  • A Running Book 

There are so many running-related books to choose from…. It’s impossible to have read them all.

Your Pace or Mine?: What Running Taught Me About Life, Laughter and Coming Last by [Lisa Jackson]

this is one I recently downloaded

  • Bluetooth Headphones

for listening to your favorite tunes or podcasts on the run.  I love my AfterShoks but there are many other brands as well.

Solar Red

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running!  Are any of these on your list? What else would you like?

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Weekly Run Down for 11.23.20-11.29.20: COVID Thanksgiving Week

Well, I used to be excited during this week – only four days of work, a Turkey Trot race, and lots of good food and time with family and friends.

I am trying to be a positive person and not post about how “sad” I am feeling.

But running-related, things are fine.

Last Week –

  • Monday – A rainy morning so no pre-work walk or run.  I did get out at lunch. So cold and windy!!!!

hoping that the water line trail would protect me from the wind…not so much and it was muddy 😦

After work, I am trying not to limit myself to UAlbany because there are lights there. Instead, I drove to Washington Park in hopes of running there under the Holiday Lights (There was scheduled a walk there for owners and their pets. The lights didn’t officially start until Friday.)

It was so fun.  I’m definitely heading back for more runs during the holiday season (limited to 4:45-5:45 pm though)

not as windy in the park and not crowded but lit up 🙂

  • Tuesday – Another cold WINDY morning. Didn’t even attempt a walk or un until lunch time.

went on a different direction of the water line from Monday. Nice to at least have sunshine

I’m not a fan of running several days in a row but these runs are slow so I decided to get in a few more miles in town (in the dark.)

clock at the 4 corners of my town (I think it was 5:15 pm)

  • Wednesday – Since the weather was iffy for Thanksgiving Day, I decided to run my virtual Run for Thanks 5k during my lunch break today. The cloudy cold windy weather seemed to be lingering.

jumping on the rail trail lol

After work, I went for a walk and in the evening watched nearby fireworks.

  • Thursday – Thanksgiving Day so I had the day off from work.  Almost every year since 2009, I have run a Turkey Trot 5k or 10k.

And yes, my favorite race in Troy was held virtually.  But instead, I chose to do an unofficial virtual one on the Delmar Turkey Trot course.

Boy was I surprised how many people decided to do the same thing. What a great idea and so nice to see a lot of familiar faces on the course.

Now I definitely earned that cannoli and the rain held off until I was done 🙂

Thanksgiving Dinner was small.  Just me and the hubby. We decided on Italian Take-out instead of turkey.

We definitely missed being with our family.

Even without the turkey and the trimmings, I needed a post dinner walk. I headed to Five Rivers hoping to have enough time to explore before it got dark.

the fog at dusk was an awesome sight

  • Friday –  A well deserved rest day. I bet all my blogging friends took one too.

credit: Kim @ Running on the Fly

I had to work but took a long walk at lunch with a friend. Finally the temps warmed up a bit.

I went on an additional outdoor walk after work, as well.

  • Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Back to the rail trail for my 10 miles. I arrived early and ran almost 4 miles solo and then 5 others arrived. I run a little more than 6 miles with someone who was walking (she does walk fast lol).

the weather, the company and the breakfast were perfect.

I felt energetic and inspired by Chocolate Runs Judy to clear off the appliances from my kitchen counters and got rid a lot of unused stuff. Tossing is cathartic (if only my hubby would do the same.)

  • Sunday – Hiking Sunday.  The weather being nice and rain predicted for the next two days, I decided to go back to Van Buren Nature Trails since I felt rushed last week when I was there. But 3 of my running friends invited me to come with them to Schodack Island Park trails. I opted to go with them.  It was a beautiful day and I wound up walking more miles than I would have alone. The right decision. I’ll go to Van Buren another day.

I spent the rest of the day decorating.  I may not be Christian but I do like the house to be festive-looking this time of year.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  rest day
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday –  run
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  train to NYC (TBD)
  • Sunday – Winter Classic 5k (TBD)

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” races yet?  How did you spend Thanksgiving? Did you run a Turkey Trot?  Have you started decorating for the holidays? Please share.

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Runfessions for November ’20

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

1. I runfess…

I get FOMO looking at those pictures of runners running at sunrise.  I am an early riser so I could do it too but I watch those beautiful reds and oranges in the sky while drinking a cup of coffee and scrolling through FB and IG.

Anyone else struggle to get out there to run in the early morning hours?

2. I runfess…

I searched all summer for my pink compression socks.  Now that it is too cold for skirts, I found them!! But wouldn’t you know it, now I can’t find my favorite buff and running shirt.

Do you misplace things or is it just me?

3.I runfess…

I have had a Strava account for years and never used it.  I finally did because the free virtual 5ks that signed up through NYRR asked you to post there.

I tried not to be embarrassed with how slow my pace was lol

Anyone else use Strava to record runs or interact with other runners?

4. I runfess…

I did not use my Garmin during my recent REAL half marathon but I missed it.  Not in the way, you think. It was so freeing to enjoy racing and not think about pace and finish time.

at mile 10.6

But I had NO stats.  I always look after a race at my pace for each mile.  And of course, overanalyze things.

Does anyone else obsess over their race stats?

5.I runfess…

My recent race made me realize how much I missed the atmosphere and runner connection at a real race even COVID-style. I did register for a 5K in NYC in a few weeks. I am, of course, hesitating to go due to the rise in the number of cases. I’m pretty sure that the race itself will be safe.  Other races have been held there but it’s all the other stuff to worry about.

So I am waiting until the last minute to decide (I can cancel my free hotel room until 6 pm the night before).

there’s always next year…

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

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? So glad to get mine out in the open? Can you identify with any of them? Please share.

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I Am Thankful

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: Tell us why you’re thankful for running this year!

There have been no PRs and the slowest running paces ever but running has definitely made a positive impact on my life this year.

Here’s how:

  • Health and Fitness

I always credit running as the reason that I don’t gain (much) weight and I rarely get sick. But this year (with COVID-19), it became even more important.

Running got me outdoors several times each week.

I also tried to run at least TEN miles each weekend for the first time. Even when there were no races to train for, there were also not many activities on my schedule (so why not?)

  • Friendships

In addition to running each weekend, we brunched together after each run and we scheduled weekly evening hikes.

By seeing each other frequently, we definitely bonded more this year. I feel that I know each runner better.

  • Race-cations

I did not run very many races but I did get away for several race-cations.

I had an amazing real race and other shenanigans in Bermuda.

blogger meet-up with Marcia & Cari

I normally run quite a few races in NYC.  I got one in. One is better than none, right?

Fred LeBow HM with Stan

And although the race was cancelled, my friends and I spent four fabulous days in NH.

ocean vacations are the best

  • Half Marathon Record

I had planned to run 12 half marathons in 2020 – one per month.  The Pandemic, obviously, made that pretty much impossible.

Still I had never run more than 6 in one year (2016 & 2017).

This year, I ran 9!! A New Record.

  1. Fred Lebow, 2. ZOOMA Bermuda, 3. NYC Virtual, 4. Social Challenge Virtual, 5. Steel Rail Virtual, 6. Unofficial Palio Virtual, 7. Smuttynose Virtual, 8. ZOOMA Amelia Is Virtual, 9. Upstate Classic

  • Coping with Tough Times

Unfortunately I lost two close friends to cancer this year. Another friend is currently experiencing complications from serious heart surgery, my mother-in-law, who was in the hospital for a few days, and unfortunately COVID has hit my immediate family. (Hopefully I’ll have good news related to this and will share that on the blog.)

Running has been there when I needed it.

Polar Cap Run to honor my friend Andrea

  • My Virtual Friends

All of you who read my blog even if I have never gotten to meet you, I am thankful for your support.

Hopefully, our paths will cross in the future.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! How are you thankful for running this year? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 11.16.20-11.22.20 – Recovery and Five Day Work Week

I was recovering from my half marathon this week and it was my first five day work week in a long time.

Yes, I normally work five days a week.  But lately due to holidays and having to use up some vacation time (due to cancelled 2020 vacations), I have been only working FOUR days a week.

This has been really nice.  I have gotten to do a lot of awesome hiking.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Rest Day. Hoping my blister would heal so I could run soon. After a windy rainy night, the sun peaked out so I was hoping for a nice walk during lunch. As soon as I got out there, however, the sun went in and it turned dark and dreary.  The good news was that my legs and foot felt fine.  No lingering effects from the day before. Hooray!!

So I hit a local trail for a short one after work and continued in a lit neighborhood (Darn Darkness).

  • Tuesday – A busy work day so no time to do anything until after work.  I was trying to be good and take another rest day so I just walked at lunch.  It was another cold cloudy day…craving some  warmth and sun.

beginning to look a lot like Christmas….and I was sporting my new beanie that a got from a gift exchange (Thanks Debbie)

After work I squeezed in another walk on the trails… (Yes, I was tempted to run.)

some interesting trees at Pine Hollow Arboretum

  • Wednesday – I woke up to snow on the ground. Glad that I didn’t plan to run or walk. Another busy work day but I decided that it was time to run again. I headed to the rail trail after work hoping to beat darkness.

nothing like freezing temps and lack of light to make you run faster.

  • Thursday – Today I had time to run before work. But again, it was freezing.  So I wimped out. Instead, I got out at lunch when it was a little warmer. And I decided to do my 2nd NYRR virtual 5k race.  My legs were still recovering from Sunday’s hilly half but it got done.

cold and windy again but at least the sun was out!!

After work, I met my BFF for a walk.  Trying to stay outdoors but we were sooo cold.

  • Friday –  Another rest day with a short walk at lunch.

I took my usual longer walk with friends after work. Finally the temps warmed up a bit. It was great way to get rid of some of the COVID crazies.

not NYC but festive also in Albany, NY.

  • Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Back to the Zim Smith bike path so we could brunch outside at Leah’s. A similar scenario as previous Saturdays.  I got there early to run a few solo miles and then was joined at points by 6 others (walking or running) for additional miles.  In the end, I kept my 10 mile weekend long run streak.

50 degree weather was a welcome improvement over temps during the week…My vest did not stay on.

  • Sunday – Possible rain in the afternoon got me out early for a hike…colder and cloudy but still wonderful to be outdoors.

I decided to hike until it rained but I got lucky and got 8 miles on 4 different trails and never got wet.  Unfortunately I like the last one best and I ran out of time.

these pics are from a short trail but across the street were longer trails but just paths through fields…nothing really to photograph.

Visit #2 to Omni Art…just love to stroll around and see all the different art… I’m pretty sure I still have not seen it all. Need Visit #3!!

President Van Buren lived here and I always wanted to visit…but again the trails were not too exciting

this was surprising and my favorite of all… I’ll be back to do more hiking here.

In the evening, my mah jongg (that has been on pause since March) group celebrated our 12 year anniversary of playing together with  a ZOOM chat (and take-out Chinese food). Can’t want to play again  …. in 2021??

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  run
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday –  rest day
  • Thursday –  HOLIDAY, NYRR virtual 5k, dinner with fam hubby
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day, hiking

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” races yet?  What did you do for Thanksgiving?  Did you run a Turkey Trot? Please share.