May 6, 2022 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for May ’22

It’s that time of the month…

Starbucks Coffee City Mug Collection- Florida, 16 Oz Cup

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

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have been selected as an Ambassador for this race!

Social Media Race Ambassadors | Maine Marathon

It will be held on October 2, 2022 in Portland, ME. There is a half, full and marathon relay. I am running it with my (crazy) running friends.

Please join us and take advantage of my code for a discount:

Darlene2022 (half/full)

Darlene2022R (relay)

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that for the second time, I am celebrating my pre-birthday by running up a mountain.

2021 at the top of Prospect Mountain in Lake George (almost 6 miles and over 1600 ft in elevation)

This year, however, since I need a 12 mile long Run, I am going to (I think) run DOWN the mountain, as well.

3.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I am celebrating my birthday (May 9) by leaving for my annual 8 day tennis vacation in Naples, Fl. And no, I don’t play tennis anymore. LOL. (This trip began in 2005 when I did play regularly.)

hopefully we don’t have to wear masks this year.

haven’t played in ONE year… hope I remember how…

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the 5k that I used to run during my May Florida tennis vacation has returned and I have signed up.

at the Tropicool 5k in 2019 with friend, Rebecca (who died in 2021)

I’m sure I’ll have fun ~~sweating~~ racing but it will be bittersweet.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have decided to reduce my work schedule and it was approved to work 90% starting in the middle of June. That means I will have every other MONDAY OFF!!

I am over the moon!!! More running or hiking or maybe even go back to playing tennis…

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Any trips or races planned? Anyone want to join me in Maine? Do any of you play tennis? Or work less than full-time? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

April 29, 2022 by Darlene

Runfessions for April ’22

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

This month, it’s a mishmash…

1. I gymfess…

When I say I will do something, I follow through.

That means three mornings a week before work, I go to the gym … no matter what!

At first, I thought: “I can’t wait until my free trial at the YMCA is over on June 4!! Hanging out with sweaty old men at 6:30 am is not my thing…”

But now, I am used to the routine. And I like routines.

So I think I’m going to miss my gym time.

I did send an email about my FREE local gym. Here is their response:

Fitness Connect locations are currently closed to prevent any potential spread of COVID-19. It is unknown when these locations will reopen. We do understand gyms in New York are able to start reopening on 8/24/2020. But because the Fitness Connect locations rely on the public to self-serve and maintain the sanitation of the equipment, there is no guarantee that the proper sanitation protocols and safety measures will be used. We appreciate your understanding that we are looking out for the health and safety of our community…

Sigh. 😦

2. I runfess…

Until recently, I was running three times a week by myself. I could run anywhere and at any time.

Now I run with a group on Mondays (FTC) and Wednesdays (STEM). Soon there will also be trail runs on Thursdays…

Yes, it’s inconvenient often to run at 6 or 6:30 pm. I’m tired and hungry!!

But it’s so much more enjoyable to run with others and I run much better!

4. I racefess…

I may have overclicked the Register button:

04-10-22 – Shape 5.8 Miler* (NYC)
04-16-22 – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon
04-24-22 – Delmar Dash (5m)
05-01-22 – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k*
05-07-22 – Prospect Mountain Road Race
05-15-22 – Tropicool 5k
05-19-22 – Workforce Challenge (3.5m)
05-22-22 – Steel Rail Half Marathon
05-29-22 – Miles Along the Mohawk 10 miler
06-04-22 – Freihofer Run for Women 5k
06-05-22 – Capital Region Heart Walk/5k* (with STEM)
06-11-22 – Kinderhook Bank OK 5k
06-25-22 – Race to the Lakes 15k
06-26-22 – Dodge the Deer 5k*
07-04-22 – Firecracker 4

(* indicates a NEW race)

No goal races… just lots of fun with friends and supporting some important charities.

5. I workfess….

I love the freedom of working from home but I am looking forward (a little bit) to getting out of the house, dressing up and seeing real people. I will be teaching live starting May 25. Two-four days a week, every other week, I think. (No NYC travel yet, though.)

The remote trainings will continue from home… For how long? Who knows?

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Do you like to run with a group? Have you been registering for a lot of races in 2022? Do you still work from home? Yay or Nay on the gym? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

April 8, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Reasons to Race

Many runners never enter a race.

Many runners stopped racing during COVID.

And of course, you are still a runner if you do NOT race.

But it’s a shame, because IMO, you are missing what enhances the running experience in more ways than I can possibly describe in this post.

Here are a few reasons why I race so often and why I think you should too:

1.Having a goal keeps you motivated

By signing up for a race, you automatically create a goal.

You’re either looking to finish the race or achieve a PR, maybe even both?

These goals will help motivate you to train, getting you out the door in the pouring rain or pushing you to the gym for that dreaded strength workout.

2.To Push your limits

Running in a race allows you to push your potential and achieve results you may not have thought were possible. (Run without walking? Run on trails? Run a full marathon?)

We can almost always run faster while racing due to the competitive environment, not to mention the increased adrenaline!

Take advantage of this and see what you’re really made of.

3. Provides a sense of community

There’s more to running than running itself, there’s a whole community of runners out there!

Running in a race will really allow you to embrace this community. Prepare to be cheered and to cheer your fellow runners as they achieve their goals on race day – just like yourself.

And make new friends!!

4. To feel accomplished

It’s not every day that you get to finish a 5k or a half marathon.

Finishing a race, especially if you run a PR, is an incredible feeling. You’ll feel proud of all your hard work leading up to the race, and more importantly be proud of what you have achieved – and so you should be!

I will add that finishing any race, even if it’s a PW, is an achievement.

5. It’s fun!

Finally, running a race is fun! Toeing the start line with hundreds/thousands of runners, all with similar goals feels great.

From those pre-race chats and porta-pottie visits to making new friends and enjoying a post-race brunch, running a race is an exciting all-round experience.

IMO, worth every cent, you pay to sign up.

Happy Running! Do you race often? Why or Why not? Can you add any other reasons to race? Please share.

runner-sig

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

April 1, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for April ’22

It’s that time of the month…

Worry Less Run More 15 oz Ceramic Large Mug Worry Less Run More Mugs | CafePress

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

This is appropriate for my life lately…

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am still an Ambassador for the Freihofer Run for Women.

The race went virtual in 2020, moved to Sept in 2021 and this year, it has returned to its regular date – June 4, 2022.

As an ambassador, I am obviously promoting the race at various events.

If you would like to run this all women’s 5k, in-person or virtual, use the code AMBDC to pay only $22. You get a shirt and medal. In person runners also get cookies. Virtual runners will get a Freihofer’s product coupon mailed with their medal and shirt.

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that as usual, I signed up for the Freihofer Training Challenge. (FTC)

Yes, I have complained that as an “advanced” runner, I don’t get much support. However, it is perfect for NEW runners. But it is an opportunity to run with others. I plan to go on Mondays when convenient and skip the Saturday sessions (since I usually do a long run or race that day.)

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that one of the perks of the FTC is a FREE 12 week membership to the YMCA.

The issue is WHEN to fit it in??? Work, runs…runs, work… family/friends stuff…work, runs

But they are open 5:30AM – 9:00 PM (on weekdays) and have lots of facilities:

- Complete Exercise Center with Cybex weight circuit, free weights, Precor treadmills and ellipticals, bikes and Stairmasters.
- 2 pools, including a 6-lane lap pool and a warm water instructional pool.
- Steam, sauna and whirlpool facilities
- Basketball gymnasium
- Pickle Ball courts
- Free cycling, aerobic, mind/body and aqua aerobics classes
- Indoor running/walking track.
- NHL style ice rink that offers open skating, lessons and adult hockey leagues.

Wish me luck!! My plan is to go THREE mornings each week (on rest days) until Jun 4. (So far, so good…)

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am back to volunteering with STEM. I had done this for many years in the past. Then it didn’t work out with work and COVID.

back in 2017

I will try and go on Wednesdays. It is a VERY rewarding experience. The goal race changes each year. This year, it will be on June 5.

and in 2016

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I LOVED working from home… my life was so much less complicated and especially related to running.

We knew that at some point it would have to end. We start local in-person training (I am a computer trainer) on May 25. (No word if we can still stay home for remote trainings….)

I was scheduled go to Queens (NYC) on April 7-8 and April 10-11. That’s Thurs-Fri and then Sun-Mon. Real sucky!!!

Because I had plans to go there for a race on April 9-10.

Go home (2h45 min train ride) Friday night and return Saturday morning makes no sense. Pay for a hotel of my pocket for Friday night makes less sense. The logical solution was to DNS the race and plan another NYC race weekend.

Update: My work travel got postponed. Woo Hoo! NYC and Shape and Cherry Blossoms, here I come!

Some more for good measure:

6. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I delayed getting my second COVID booster until after my long run tomorrow. I didn’t get a reaction to the last three vaccines but just in case, I wanted to make sure I got my 12 miler done in preparation for my next half marathon. on April 16.

I’m sure you all aware how important it is for all of you who over 50 to get this ASAP

7.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that FOMO set in and on the last day possible, I entered the lottery for the NYC Marathon.

not sure if I was disappointed or relieved LOL

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Are you signed up for any 2022 races? Are you having any spring-like weather yet? Plan to run the FRW 5k with me? Do you volunteer with any running groups? Do you go to a gym to work out? Do you plan your vaccines around your running? Did you enter the NYS Marathon lottery? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

March 18, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Five NRR Things I’m Loving Lately

What I'm loving lately

Racing, of course

: Fred Lebow Half ’22

: Central Park Half ’22

and Non-Running Related (NRR):

Knitting

I started last month with this Ukraine-inspired hat… I have plans for some socks and mittens…

2. Succulents

I started last year with many in the bay window of my living room

but now they are everywhere including my kitchen…

3. Live Flowers

It’s great that the ones at Trader Joe’s are affordable and last a long time…

4. IZZE

I just got back into buying them again. You can find them at Target.

Mango and Blackberry are my favorite flavors…

If you wondering about its nutritional value: IZZE Sparkling Juices are made with 70% fruit juice and a dash of sparkling water, with no sugar or preservatives added. IZZE sparkling blackberry juice beverage has 90 calories per eight-ounce can. It contains no fat and 0.3 grams of protein, and it also contains 18 grams of sugar. It also has 0.3 g of dietary fiber and low sodium. It is sweetened with fructose, a naturally occurring sugar.

I just think they taste good.

5. KODIAK CAKES OATMEAL

If you’ve read my blog, you know that oatmeal is my go to pre-race meal. Well, I actually eat oatmeal EVERYDAY!!

I’m sure that most of you make your own oatmeal. I admit that I’m lazy. I eat TWO packages (400 calories, yup!!) every morning.

I vary the flavors and sometimes add raisins but chocolate chip is my favorite.

They even travel well.

and one more for good measure:

6. Alexa

I know I’m late to the party (any my hubby HATES it). I have one in the kitchen and one in the bedroom.

Amazon Echo Dot review

I love being able to have a candle or lamp automatically go on and off a certain times….

Happy Running! What are you loving lately? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

March 11, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Do Those Long Runs

Ok, so you may not be signing up for BIG races yet. Or maybe you are not running any races..

Time to slow down, right? Run fewer miles. Take it easy.

Yes, if you are injured.

But, NO, not necessarily.

(Many runners may define a long run differently. For this post, I am defining it as at least 8 miles.)

Here’s why it’s good to run LONG on the weekend:

1.Builds resiliency and mental toughness.

The Long Run is the most specific mental preparation you’ll get before a race. Psychological fatigue is real!

It builds your confidence.

And as they say “It’s all about that base.” With long runs of at least 8 miles, you do not have to start over when you start training for a long race. You can quickly be prepared for that half marathon.

2. Improves mechanics.

In other words, your running form becomes more efficient in a Long Run. Muscles learn through practice and your stride will improve through consistent long runs.

You have time to work on your cadence, breathing, etc.

3. Increases the efficiency of fuel use.

The Long Run teaches the body to use a higher percentage of fat as fuel rather than stored glycogen, while also teaching the body to store more glycogen.

It also gives you the opportunity to experiment with different types of fuel and when your body needs to fuel.

4. Builds stronger muscles.

Running for prolonged periods increases the strength of the leg muscles and connective tissues, but also those of the respiratory system (including the diaphragm and core region).

This is especially important for those of us who use running as our primary form of strength training.

5. Makes you faster!

Yes, with more endurance you’ll be able to hold a certain pace for a longer period of time. But after a certain level of fatigue, slow-twitch muscles get tired so the body recruits fast-twitch muscle fibers to help out.

The end result? You actually improve speed by running easy for a very long time!

It took me awhile to realize how running longer actually helped increase my pace for those 5ks races.

Happy Running! Have you been doing your weekend long runs? Why or why not? How long are your weekend runs? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

February 25, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for Feb. ’22

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

It’s no surprise that my runfessions should be called RACEfessions.

1. I runfess…

It’s only February but I think I am already ignoring my word for the year.

Remember how I choose the word INTENTIONAL?

I have about 30 races on my Races list…and I am been impulsively signing up…

I guess I can say that I am INTENTIONALLY signing up for a lot of races lol

2. I runfess…

As I have mentioned in a previous post, once my NYC half marathon (Frozen Penguin) got cancelled, I was forced to sign up for another this coming weekend (or lose $80).

So I am racing another hilly two loops around Central Park but my only goal is to enjoy my time in NYC. Cari is also running the same race.

Hopefully I’ll be adding some fun shenanigans such as a visit to Governor’s Island (to see some ice sculptures).

Governors Island Winter Ice Sculpture Show: Proposal Deadline - Go Green Brooklyn

3. I runfess…

There are so many cities and so many races, but NYC keeps pulling me in.

Shape Half ’17

You know where this is going. I signed up for another Central Park race in April.

NOT a 2 loop hilly half marathon!! Just one hilly loop – a new 5.8 mile race.

May be an image of text that says 'SHAPE +Health Womenshalf 13.1M 5.8M NYTRR NEW YORK ROAD RUNNERS'

Maybe even the cherry blossoms will bloom early this year…

Cherry Blossom Trees in Central Park

5. I runfess…

Every May even though I no longer play tennis, I go to Naples, FL to play tennis for 8 days.

I have in the past run a 5k but in recent years I have not been able (due to scheduling or COVID).

This is was in 2019. Rebecca died unexpectedly last year (so I will thinking of her whenever I run this race 😦 )

You’ll be happy to know, that I will be running a 5k race while I’m there this year.

May 15, 2022

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Do you try to find races when you go on vacation? Have you been signing up for races in 2022? Do you like running in NYC? 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

February 18, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Things I’m Looking for in a Coach

maybe Judith pictured here…?

I have never had a coach nor am I sure that I will ever hire one.

But if I did, here’s what would be important for ME:

1. Experience

I know a certified coach has to start somewhere but I would prefer not to be her his/her first client.

They need to have coached before and maybe even have coached someone else with needs similar to mine or who was training for the same distance.

Also he/she needs to be experienced as a runner and one who is faster than I am (No offense…)

2.Cost

I’m not a professional nor do I have unlimited funds to spend on running. So the cost would have to reasonable and paid monthly.

3. Accessibility

In-person would be ideal but at least through email, text and social networking. I would expect prompt and thoughtful responses to my questions.

4. Flexibility

I would want to be given a training plan but not one that I could not adapt to my changing needs or life schedule.

5. Presence at my goal race

Obviously this may not be possible. But it would be incredibility supportive and helpful.

Patrick was my coach at past Freihofer & Turkey Trot Challenge groups. I saw him recently when I was volunteering as he was running in the marathoner that he coached

Remember that every runner is different. My needs or preferences may not be the same as yours.

Many of you who are reading this post may be certified running coaches. Many of the bloggers that I know are also certified coaches and based on what I have read, they would be great coaches… so maybe someday we will work together???

And if any of my readers are looking to hire a coach. here are some helpful links:

Happy Running! Do you have a coach or have you ever had one? What was important when choosing him/her? Please share.

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 below:

February 11, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Drink Your Coffee!

This post is for all you coffee drinkers (or future coffee drinkers).

Here are 5 ways that coffee (that is with caffeine) can enhance your running performance:

Moderate intake of coffee lowers perceived exertion. That means that your workouts may feel easier. So you may be able to maintain your desired running pace longer.
Coffee increases your blood levels of free fatty acids. That makes them available for fuel while preserving your glycogen stores. In other words, you may be able to run longer distances.
Coffee can also help preserve glycogen stores when consumed after exertion. So you should try drinking some after a run, as well.
Coffee stimulates the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and lower perception of fatigue. A no-brainer on how this could help your running.
Coffee stimulates peristalsis (or a bowel movement). So definitely try drinking some coffee before a race. LOL

Yes, I have tried caffeinated teas and they just didn’t have the same effect for me.

Of course, every runner is different. You may not need caffeine at all.

And my after race preference is actually chocolate milk not coffee.

Happy Running! Do you drink coffee? Any other benefits of coffee that I have missed? Please share.

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 below:

February 4, 2022 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for Feb. ’22

It’s that time of the month…

Gift For Running Women and Runner Girls - 13.1 Half Marathon Run Word Cloud Typography - 11oz Ceramic Unique Coffee Mug Tea Cup, Black - Inspirational and Motivational Present

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

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I just ran a half marathon but crazy me signed up for two more this month!

Publix Florida Marathon & 1/2 Marathon - Melbourne, Florida - 2/13/2022 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

Feb. 27, 2022

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that you can never have too many pairs of running shoes especially if someone sells them cheaply. (I do add my own insoles!!)

Topos for $49 (new=$130) and they’re purple!

$40… had to buy them

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my running group has been shrinking. Between those who winter in Florida, those who are sick and those who are injured, I have struggled to find company to do my long runs on the weekends. But fortunately I have only had to run ONE long run solo (due to 2 last minute cancellations).

I miss my tribe!

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I giddy about leaving this cold weather and heading to Florida in less than a week. I know it may not be very warm but it won’t be icy and the temps should be above freezing.

beach time?

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that related the above vacation, I have quite a few friends to visit and activities with them, believe it or not, will NOT involve running.

with a tennis friend, college roommate and former co-worker

Don’t worry, there will be:

- a sunrise run or two
- a half marathon
- a meet-up with a running blogger (guess who?)

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Have you signed up for any winter long races? Do you ever buy used clothing/shoes? Any trips planned to escape the cold? Do you always try to get in your running when you visit friends? Have you met other bloggers in person? Please share.