January 22, 2021 by Darlene

Fit Friday Five: Winter Lovings

Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts – Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida

and add your link at the bottom of this post.

I just realized that I haven’t posted about this topic since Fall.

So that’s my topic for today.

Here are 5 things that I am loving this Winter:

my Adidas Beanie.

It is warm and comfortable. And most importantly, it stays down over my ears. (and I stumbled upon it at Marshalls!!)

2. My Hot Tub

Even if the temps are frigid, after a long run, it is an amazing reward. I keep it at 104 degrees. It gets you warmed up and it’s also great for sore muscles. (For added joy, afterward, you need a heavy terry cloth robe, a cup of Starbucks or hot cocoa and a indoor fireplace lol).

3. my new Nordic Track Stationary Bike

On days when I don’t have time to get outside to run or it’s too snowy or icy to do so, this bike has been my savior. In just a few minutes, I am sweating. It connects to my phone or iPad so I can listen to music, podcasts or participate in online workouts. (Bought for cheap on FB Market Place!!)

It also lets me be part of the Blogger Biker Chicks ZOOM!

4. my old Skirt Sports Toasty Cheeks Skirt

I wear it over tights. It keeps my butt nice and “toasty” warm. I’ve had it for years and it still looks brand new (since I reserve it for very cold windy days.)

5. the NYCRuns Gaiter

It keeps my face warm (and protected from COVID) and actually stays up when I run. I have some other free cotton ones but they just don’t cut it. This one has Spandex in it. And it was swag from the NYCRuns in person race that I ran back in December. Win. Win.

It is very similar to the ones made by Skida which work well too.

Happy Running! What are you loving this winter? Please share.

runner-sig

January 15, 2021 by Darlene

Fit Friday Five: The Best of 2020

It’s time for a brand-new Friday Five, and we are thrilled to bring you this Fit Five Friday link-up starting TODAY!!

We’ve got FIVE incredible co-hosts, and we are ready to link up every Friday to share YOUR weekly fitness favorites!

Join hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida every Friday for Fit Five Friday!

Here are the guidelines:

Enter the link-up at the bottom of this post.
Your link should center around some kind of fitness (exercise, wellness, mental health, nutrition… the possibilities are endless!)
Please link back to your hosts! It’s the right thing to do!
Share the link-up love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!
Feel free to share about Fit Five Friday on your social media! Tag #FitFiveFriday to get the word out!

And let’s go!

My Topic this week, as I and other bloggers have done in past years, is the Best of 2020.

FX Graphix

I seriously considered skipping this post.

But then again, with fewer races, it was easier to come up with my awards lol.

So here it goes:

1. Best Race(s) in 2020:

So what determines a “best” race? Fastest? Best Food? Most scenic course? Most organized? Best swag?

Any or all of the above.

Not many to choose from in 2020.

My vote for the Best In-Person was:

ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon

It was my first ZOOMA race. I loved everything about it- the beautiful views on the course, the organization, post race food, the swag and the spending the weekend with great people.

and the Best Virtual was:

Smuttynose Half Marathon

Unfortunately, this race went virtual and it was supposed to be a race-cation with nine of my running friends. We decided to go to NH anyway and run the race on the original course. We ran together and had a great time.

2. Best Run(s) in 2020:

My runs are not usually very good or very exciting. And since I worked from home for most of year, there were no runs in scenic places around NYS.

But I’d say that my best ones were done with my local running friends. We call our group the “Sole Sisters.” Except for the first few months at the beginning of the pandemic, I’ve run (at a safe distance) with them every weekend. Without their support, I could never have run at least ten miles for all my long runs. Soooo grateful to them.

3. Best New Piece(s) of Running Gear in 2020:

I have bought several pairs of running shoes. In 2020, I switched from Mizunos to Topos.

I now own 3 pairs of Magniflys

I’ve tried almost all brands but with foot problems (particularly a painful bunion and neuroma), I fell in love with Topos’ wide toe box.

I have, of course, bought the usual Skirt Sports running skirts. The only new item would be Lioness Capris.

I have 3 pairs of these.

I liked that short skirt had capris with pockets that cover things and that they are longer than most capris so perfect for fall and spring running and hiking.

4. Most Inspirational Runner(s) in 2020:

First: Chris Nikic

Athlete with Down syndrome makes history in Ironman triathlon - CNN Video

He was the first first Ironman finisher with Down Syndrome. Amazing feat for anyone (even if you do not have a disability).

Second: Sarah Hall

Sara Hall celebrates second place in the Elite Women's Field of the London Marathon.

At age 37, this mother of four adopted children, came in second and had a PR in the London Marathon.

5. Favorite Picture(s) from a Run or Race in 2020:

Again there are only a few since I didn’t run many races (and I didn’t buy any of them):

Fred Lebow Half Marathon

I was excited to be running in Central Park, NYC in spite of the foot pain and the cold temps.

NYCRuns Winter Challenge 5k

After nine months, I was back in NYC running a race enjoying the experience even with all the pandemic restrictions.

REALLY looking forward to what 2021 brings…

Happy Running! What are some of your Best Ofs/Favorites for 2020? Please share.

January 1, 2021 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date – January 2021

It’s that time of the month…

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

And it’s the first one of 2021! What a difference a year makes…

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am glad, like most of you, that 2020 has ended. It wasn’t all bad

seemed like it was going to be the best year…

but for me, personally, there were quite a few sad things that happened during this year. I’m demoting 2020 from 5 starts to one star.

Funny 2020 Sucks 1 Star Amazon Review Parody Coffee Mug 15 oz Black Accent

2. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that that in 2019, I was so excited to be running my first full marathon. In 2020, I was so excited to try to complete one half marathon each month.

HM #1 in 2020

2021? I wonder what I should be excited about (related to running)?

in limbo

Do you have any big running goals for this year?

3. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that it’s getting harder and harder (in the cold weather) to do my long runs without big races on my schedule.

this was HARD!

Do you still do your weekend long runs? Are they shorter than pre-pandemic?

4. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that that although I want to go on a race-cation in Florida in February, I don’t want to be uncomfortable or make my family and friends uncomfortable. So if the race actually happens and I go, I’ll be staying in hotels rather than with people that I know. (Fortunately I still have hotel pts for free rooms from 2019’s work travel.)

my 3 good friends who live in Delray Beach, FL

Any vacations planned for 2021? Will they be different than in the past?

5. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I can’t wait to get my COVID vaccine!! (My hubby got his yesterday!!!!!!!)

It’ll be the first sign that things are moving in the right direction on containing this virus.

I do hope people do get it. I know there are those to do not get the vaccines that are recommended (like their flu or shingles shots (if over 50))

A health-care worker injects a masked person with a vaccine.

Credit: Dogukan Keskinkilic/Anadolu Agency/Getty

Will you be getting the vaccine right away? Or are you worried about the side effects?

One more for good measure:

6. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have registered for two mileage challenges for 2021 – both for 1000 miles:

I’m a Skirt Sports/ZOOMA ambassador so of course, I participated in this one (even though I signed up for the free version + the beanie)

and

you get this super cool medallion, a great looking quarter zip for winter running, and a short sleeve techie for when it warms up.

Have you signed up for a 2021 mileage challenge? If so, which one?

It’s also 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!

December 25, 2020 by Darlene

Runfessions for December

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

and it’s the last one for 2020!!

1. I runfess…

I’ve passed by many of those small library boxes. I always look to see if there’s a book that I want. I have gone back to get some books. But recently I saw two holidays DVDs. I took them because I could just stuff them in my waist band and continue my run.

I mean it was “Love Actually” and a Reese Witherspoon movie

Have you ever done something so silly? What is your favorite holiday movie?

2. I runfess…

I’ve used Strava for a few 5k Virtual Races because NYRR/ Strava sponsored them. I do not pause my watch when I tie my shoe, stop to walk or even take pictures. So yes, the elapsed time is way slower than the moving time. I know that if it were a real race, I could run as fast as (or hopefully faster than) the moving time. I don’t feel guilty.

Do you pause your watch when you stop running?

3.I runfess…

I haven’t decided on my next half marathon but I had already registered (before the pandemic) to run a Feb. 14 one in Fort Lauderdale (with Cari).

Feb. 14, 2021

But there was a Cyber Monday discount so I also registered for one the week before in Melbourne (where my Sister-in-law lives).

Feb. 7, 2021

No, I don’t plan to run both. I may run neither. Both races offer deferrals. Hopefully I will run one and defer the other to 2022.

Anyone want to join me in either of these races?

4. I runfess…

I ordered all my holiday presents myself. So I love them all. Running shoes, socks, lighted vest, turkey trot beanie & socks.

Do you prefer surprise gifts or do you like to pick out what you want?

5.I runfess…

I had a hard time getting in the holiday spirt with everything going on. But I always make and send holiday photo cards. So I did.

Do you still like to send and get “real” cards?

6.I runfess…

I said that I was over virtual races. And I am. At least mostly (No more virtual half marathons!!)

But I already signed up for two virtual races – a free 5k on January 1.

NYRR Virtual Resolution Run 5K

and a 15k on January 30. This one supports a great charity and has awesome swag (and blogger Kim is also running this one.)

Virtual Houston 15k

Anyone want to join me in either of these races?

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? Please share.

December 18, 2020 by Darlene

My Word for 2020 – An Update

Will You Take the One Word Challenge This Year?

This was something I’ve done every year since 2014:

(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:

Word Relax handwritten on sandy beach - Royalty-free Handwriting Stock Photo

2018:

And 2019:

refocus

And 2020:

Image result for patience

I had many ideas for ways that I was going to be patient.

None of them really mattered. Once the Pandemic arrived (and is still around), my word took on a whole other life. Who knew at that time, how appropriate this word would be?

Being Patient when I could not run with my friends.
Being Patient when I could not run in the places that I normally loved to run in.
Being Patient that I could not travel and run in new places.
Being Patient when my favorite races got cancelled.
Being Patient when the races that I signed up for went virtual.
Being Patient when my favorite races went virtual.
Being Patient when gyms closed (and I don’t own any exercise equipment.)
Being Patient when I have to carry a mask or wear a buff around my neck every time I run.
Being Patient even when a race does happen, I have to deal with all the restrictions.
Being Patient when after a long run, I can’t go out for an indoor brunch (and it’s cold out.)
Being Patient when I can’t plan my racing schedule for next year.
Being Patient when my pace has slowed to a crawl to due lack of racing and training mojo.
Being Patient when COVID is the topic of almost every conversation.
Being Patient with those who are overly paranoid about COVID.
Being Patient with those who do not take COVID serious enough.
Being Patient until I can get the vaccine.
Being Patient with those who are skeptical of the vaccine.

I’ll stop but I could go on and on. Yes, as they say “This too shall pass.” But I’m tired of being patient!!

I know it’s Friday, but it’s 2020, I could NOT limit myself to FIVE.

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! If you were to choose ONE word for your focus throughout 2020, what would it have been? Have you been “patient” this year? Please share.

December 11, 2020 by Darlene

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?

December 4, 2020 by Darlene

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!

November 27, 2020 by Darlene

Runfessions for November

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.

November 20, 2020 by Darlene

Four (or Five) Somethings for November

Thanks to Laurie from Meditations in Motion, I discovered a link up started by blogger Heather Gerwing. The fourth Saturday of each month (for me a Tuesday), Heather invites other bloggers to share their “Four Somethings”: Something Loved, Something Read, Something Treasured, and Something Ahead. Sharing these four somethings is a great way to recap your month and highlight what stood out to you. If you are a blogger, you may post your Four Somethings too!

1. Something Loved.

Election Results

I try not to be political on this blog. But what I love that that we’ve broken the glass ceiling and have a FEMALE vice-president.

how cool is that? A runner as VP.

And the wife of the new President is also a runner.

Jill Biden reports to run or exercise EVERYDAY

Are you excited about having Kamala as the new VP? Did you know Jill was a runner?

2. Something Read.

I borrowed this from a co-worker and I was anxious to read it since A Man Called Ove is one of my favorite books.

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

It is about a bank robbery gone wrong, a hostage situation, an apartment-viewing, relationships, parenthood, friendship, forgiveness… I could go on and on.

As with all his books, it was humorous and touching at the same time. I might have shed a tear or two at the end.

Have you read this or Backman’s other novels?

3. Something Treasured.

My Running Friends

Most (or maybe all) are not training for long races like I am. Yet they offer to run with me. They show up on Saturdays even if they not running. They support me (even if they think I’m crazy.)

I got the hiking bug and they eagerly joined me.

: Bash Bish Falls

Do you have people that you have treasured during this pandemic?

4. Something Ahead.

A visit to NYC and a real race. I am using my free hotel points and cross my fingers that it will be safe to do this.

Dec. 6, 2020

NYC is always a magical place around the holidays. Pics below are from 2019.

I am sure it will be different this year.

Are you looking forward to anything (besides the end of the Pandemic)?

and since it is Friday…

5. Something Learned

Carpe Diem

Yes, Seize the Day because life is indeed short. The Pandemic has shown us that. Be Safe (wear that mask if you are indoors or closer than 6ft outdoors!!) but don’t overthink things and miss opportunities. Don’t procrastinate. Get out there.

Has the Pandemic made you less spontaneous?

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! What are your somethings? Share at least ONE.

November 13, 2020 by Darlene

Racing During COVID-19 Times

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.

I haven’t run a race since February 2020.

smiling even in the pouring cold rain

Like most of you, I have hesitated to race even once real (in-person) races were offered.

But enough is enough.

I am running a race on November 15.

My Friday Five topic this week is Why You Should (or can) Run a Real (In-Person) Race Now

Precautions are in place.

Staggered starts. Masks wearing when not racing. No water stops. No spectators. Altered post-race food options. Wide running routes.

STEVE SCHALLENKAMP: Region is returning to a new normal in running | Sports | dailyfreeman.com

Race Directors have put a lot of thought into making sure that EVERYONE is safe. They do want to continue offering races and they do not want anyone getting sick.

2. Staying Connected with the Running Community.

Most runners are either running alone or with a small group of friends.

Runners who race are social. We need our peeps.

I miss seeing those runners that I know but only see at races. I have made friends with runners that I have met at races.

I also miss that support that you only get from other runners before and after a race.

3. Supporting the Racing Organizations.

Yes, it is a business like any other. They need money to stay in business.

You can support them by signing up for virtual races but I am sure they do not make nearly as much income that way.

unfortunately for this race, my only choice was to run it “virtually”

Once the pandemic is over, we will want these organizations in business so we have a nice selection of races to choose from (and at affordable prices).

4. Paying for and Earning Swag.

If you like swag, you do not have to run an in-person race. You can pay the $$ and run it virtually.

But it is costly. I just paid $90 for a race that went virtual (with no refund or referral option.)

sure, we had fun but no one was racing it.

If I am not running on that particular course (and I just choose an easier one), I do not feel that I deserve that swag. I do not even consider it a “race”. It is just a run with swag that you paid $$ for.

yes it would have been a more difficult race in NYC

5. Training and Running Mojo.

Does anyone really follow a training plan if they are not going to be running a “real” race???

Maybe loosely because we are runners and do not want to lose our endurance.

It is very difficult to stay motivated.

I am a runner that gets her mojo from racing. Not having raced since Feb, has me still running but very casually and very slowly.

just going through the motions while my friends are walking

As I have often said, my opinions are my own. I am not being critical of those who disagree. Feel free to comment but not about personal issues, politics or beliefs.

I have a pregnant daughter-in-law, friend with cancer, 95 year-old mother-in-law. I am not being reckless around them IMO because I choose to run an in-person race.

This is about running not COVID.

Happy Running! Have you run a real race yet? Are you planning to? Why or Why not? Please share.