January 30, 2026 by Darlene

Runfessions for January 2026

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

The first one of 2026…

1.I workfess…

I hate to run alone. I think I’ve mentioned that a zillion times.

Luckily I have a new running friend (who is training for Tokyo marathon).

She lives near me but she is retired and takes many classes each day (hot yoga, pilates, HIIT, spin, etc.)

In order to run with her, I have to run when it’s convenient and on days when I work from home.

That may or may not be during my scheduled worktime.

2. I gymfess…

I joined the YMCA awhile ago.

I am pretty disciplined in going on non-running days when I am home…

I don’t take classes or run one the track or treadmill.

I only use the machines -about 10 of them – the ones to strengthen your arms and hips and abs.

I don’t think I changed the number or repetitions or the weight on the machines since I started….

3. I racefess…

I signed up for a new 10 mile race scheduled for May 17.

It’s in Utica (about 1 1/2 hours away).

Why? It was $26!!

Then because I was going stir crazy home during the snowstorm, I signed up for another:

LOl. It was NOT early registration so NOT $26!!!

It does sell out as it is very popular and I’ve never done it before.

Luckily I think some other local runners may go to both and we can carpool.

4. I jefffess…

I’ve convinced many running friends that interval running (started by JEFF Galloway) is the best way to combat the aging process. IOW, you may slow down as you get older but you can still compete at the longer distances if you Run WALK RUN.

I use whatever intervals my running partner is comfortable with: 90:30, 60:60, 60:30, etc.

I NEVER use intervals in a race.

That doesn’t mean that I don’t walk. I do whenever I am tired and going up a hill.

I’ve said it’s because I use Runkeeper on my phone (instead of my Garmin) and it will run the battery down…

Is it?

5. I watchfess…

I’ve been running since 2008.

I started with a Nike chip in my shoe and something attached to my ipod.

But since then I’ve only owned two Garmin watches.

I bought the 205 to run my first half marathon.

and I bought the 230 to run my first marathon.

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, and Runs with Pugs

So Join in!

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

January 23, 2026 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Healthy Comfort Foods to Fuel Winter Miles

Today’s Topic is: 5 Healthy Comfort Foods to Fuel Winter Miles

Cold weather naturally makes us crave warm, hearty meals. The key is choosing foods that provide comfort without compromising performance. Instead of reaching for processed, high-calorie meals, opt for nutrient-dense whole foods that keep you warm and fueled.

Try these FIVE foods to fuel your winter running:

1. Oatmeal with added protein-

Cook oats with milk, add whey or plant-based protein, and top with cinnamon, nuts, seeds and seasonal fruit (like apples or pears).

High Protein Oatmeal

I admit I may be lazy at time:

2 & 3. Soups and Stews –

Use lean meats (chicken, turkey, lean beef), beans, and root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes).

Hearty Turkey Stew (with leftover turkey)

Turkey Chili

4. Baked sweet potatoes –

Add nut butter and seeds

Sweet Potato with Almond Butter Recipe | Type2Diabetes.com

5. Egg-based dishes –

such as Scrambled eggs with sautéed greens and whole-grain toast

Scrambled Eggs with Cottage Cheese

Happy Running! What do you eat in the winter? 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.

January 16, 2026 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Ways to Stay Motivated When It’s Freezing

Today’s Topic is: Ways to Stay Motivated When It’s Freezing.

All I usually do on this blog every winter is complain about how cold it is and how I hate it! I mean I live in the NE, I should expect it to be cold and snowy.

So to motivate myself to enjoy this winter more, I decided to point out what is great about winter running:

1. It doesn’t usually rain.

not a fan!!! but it was a race so I had no choice.

I will run in the snow and cold but I will not run in the rain. Hence, no rain is a good thing for my running.

happier here than above…

2. You don’t sweat (as much).

So I have less laundry because I can wear my running clothes more than once.

However, it is a challenge to pack everything you may need to wear when I don’t WFH.

And I can run after work, change my clothes and then go out with friends (Don’t judge. LOL).

3. It’s pretty outside.

Well, at least most of the time.

4. There are free races (in my area.)

Race fees add up. I am lucky that our local running group (HMRRC) sponsors 5 free races during the winter. There are 3 distances to choose from at each race.

It’s informal so it’s just a run with friends and with good food after (and age group awards)

5. There’s not a lot to do in the winter and it’s get me outside.

In the summer, there’s boating, biking, hiking, tennis, pickleball, gardening…many things to do outdoors.

Winter_4-145

But in the winter, I don’t ski, snowboard, ice skate, snowshoe or snowmobile. Running is my only outdoor activity.

There is No Bad Weather, Only Inappropriate Clothing: Winter Clothing Guide

Happy Running! Do you run outside when it’s freezing? How do you motivate yourself to get out there? 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.

January 9, 2026 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Goals for 2026

When I look back on my older blog posts, I see that I had once posted weekly goals. Then I transitioned to monthly goals. And onto race goals and eventually yearly goals. Some recent years, I had set NO goals.

My older goal posts always included numbers, pace, finish times, awards, etc.

I don’t know if it’s age-related or being more realistic, but numbers no longer matter much to me.

I may run a lot of races but only because I enjoy them.
I may win a lot of age group awards but only because I belong to an age group where there is not always a lot of competition.
I may travel to NYC often but only because it’s a train trip away and I earn perks through work.
I read because it’s relaxing and I’ve always been a big reader.
I go to the YMCA because I have paid for a membership and I need to strengthen my arms and hips.

I will try to tie my 2026 goals into my word for the year… (Suspense… post coming on 1/20).

Here are my top FIVE:

1.RUN CONSISTENTLY.

Long runs on the weekends, short runs solo or with friends several times during the work week (where and when they fit.)

2.KEEP WALKS, HIKES, GYM VISITS IN MY ROUTINE.

Walks when work schedule allows, hikes on days off or weekends, gym workouts before work on non-running days.

3.CHOOSING RACES THAT BRING ME JOY.

New races, scenic courses, racing with new and old friends and/or in different places.

4.MAKE TIME FOR LEISURE-TYPE ACTIVTIES.

Plays, movies, dining out, reading, brain games, knitting, pickleball, etc…

5.MAINTAIN FAMILY AND FRIEND RELATIONSHIPS.

Making time with others a priority.

NO NUMBERS!!

Ok, if I need mojo on any of the above, here are my number goals.

In 2026, I will try to:

Run 900 miles
Complete 30 races
Read 50 books
Visit the gym 100 times
Walk or hike 50 times

Happy Running! What are some of your 2026 goals? Do they include numbers? 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.

January 2, 2026 by Darlene

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.

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.

December 26, 2025 by Darlene

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!!

March 15, 2026

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!!

December 12, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: Must-Have Accessories Under $30

For Today’s Post, I will pick my top FIVE:

1.GOODR Sunglasses

Cheap, durable, cute and comfy (and they can match all your outfits and seasons.)

2. SPI BELT

Holds your phone and you can even attach your bib to it. And it stays in place.

3. BASEBALL CAP

Holds your hair in place, protects your face from the sun and your eyes from the rain.

4. PORTABLE WATER BOTTLE

Hydrate whenever you need to… this one is light and easy to carry.

5. Comfy No Blister Socks

Nothing is perfect but these are close…

Happy Running! Anything to add? 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!!

December 5, 2025 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for December 2025

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 I decluttered and got rid of sooo many pairs of running shoes.

So I ordered 3 different new older model Topos from REI.

Then I got an email with a REI discount code for $30 off.

Yes, I had to order a new pair. I couldn’t waste it.

2. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that is that I found a pair of NEW Topos in my closet that I’ve never worn.

I am NOT buying any shoes for a long long time.

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I entered the NON-NYRR guaranteed entry lottery for the NYC Half Marathon (on a whim). I didn’t care if I got in.

And of course, I did!

My goal race was supposed to the Asheville Half Marathon on March 21 (with my friend Sue).

My local running friends are on the fence about running the NYC HM again this year.

And the hotel prices are so high (I don’t have enough points for a free room.)

So we’ll see… (But as Cari says; I’ll probably do it…)

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the friend that I often run with (who only runs marathons), just got into the Tokyo marathon on March 1, 2026. She ran it last year (and it didn’t go well.)

She is so excited and I’m happy that I will have a motivated running partner during the cold winter months.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that on my local running friends is moving to Tacoma, WA and so we had a going away dinner for her.

we have named our group “Soul Sisters” and finally ordered shirts…

I told her that there’s a half marathon there in August…

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, 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.

November 28, 2025 by Darlene

Runfessions for November 2025

First Runfessions of Fall

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 am ok with getting slower. It happens with age (for most of us except for those Jeannie Rice types.)

I enjoy racing because you are only compared with those in your age group.

2.I runfess…

Sometimes my ego gets in the way.

In my recent race, I finished behind someone (Debbie Kelley) whom I am always faster than.

Hmmm… did she have a good race or did I have a bad race?

3. I runfess…

That being said, I noticed that I beat someone (Martha DeGrazia) who always beat me…

I wonder if she even noticed? Or cares?

4. I runfess…

Speaking about races… I already started signing up for next year:

- 01-01-26 – Winter Series #2 (3.5m)- free
- 01-11-24 – Winter Series #3 (3.5m) – free
- 01-25-24 – Winter Series #4 (3.5m) – free
- 02-01-26 – Manhattan 10k
- 02-08-24 – Winter Series #5 (3.5m) – free
- 03-21-26 – Asheville Half Marathon

5. I runfess…

I didn’t run the NYC Half Marathon in 2025 (My friends deferred and I ran RnR DC instead)

I did run it in 2019 and 2024. It was cancelled in 2020 & 2021. I ran the virtual in 2022 to get into 2023 but then I broke my foot and couldn’t run it.

I didn’t run any NYRR halfs to quality for 2026 but for some reason, I submitted my local half time.

The qualifying time is 2:27:00 and my time was 2:25:41

can’t believe I got it!!

And according to NYRR…

You’ll traverse two boroughs as you run through diverse neighborhoods and take in stunning views.

Fun fact: The United Airlines NYC Half is the only race to ever run across the Brooklyn Bridge—an unforgettable experience!

Other unique features include a stretch on the FDR Drive with gorgeous East River views and a run through Times Square—one of just two times each year this landmark is closed to traffic.

But…

As you see above, I had already registered to run the Ashville Half 6 days later… Gulp!

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!!

November 21, 2025 by Darlene

FFF: Five Reasons that I’m THANKFUL for Running

It’s almost Thanksgiving so the Topic for today is: 5+ Reasons to be Thankful for Running!

1.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 cases back on the rise), it became even more important.

Running got me outdoors several times each week.

Training for 5 half marathons (and 25 or so other distances) has also forced me outdoors for several hours each Saturday.

2.Friendships.

In addition to running each weekend, we brunch together after each run and we scheduled weekly evening hikes in the summer.

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

3.Race-cations.

I do run a lot of races but my favorite one each year is the one during our race-cation.

We pick a race, then rent a house (for 8-10 of us) for 4 days and plan fun activities.

like jumping on the beach…

4.Age Group Awards.

As you age, you do get slower. (At least I do). The great thing about running is that your success is not compared to others who are younger and faster.