September 3, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for Sept. ’21

It’s that time of the month…

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

After two months of going into the office three days a week, this month I will have to go back EVERYDAY!

I know I did it for many years before but still…. HOW???

I am so jealous of you runners who do not have to do your hair, make-up, put on jewelry and nice clothes and then pack a lunch, pre-run snack and your running stuff for all possible weather conditions. (RANT over!)

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I registered for Half Marathon #51 (counting all the virtuals of 2020). It is TOMORROW. Gulp!

Screenshot_20210610-070949_Gmail (1).jpg

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I ran 9 half marathons in 2020. However, I feel a little rusty. This is only my 3rd this year

and the last one was back in April.

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I signed up for several more races in September and October:

- 09-11-21 – Malta 5k
- 09-25-21 – Freihofer Run for Women 5k
- 10-03-21 – Smuttynose Half Marathon
- 10-09-21 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 5k
- 10-23-21 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’d tell you that I won 2nd place in a photo contest.

I won what’s in the picture not what the email says.

However, I didn’t remember entering and I had no idea which photo won. Glad they posted the winning pics:

took this one back in March

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my kitchen make-over project is more stressful than training for a marathon.

Having someone remove all the wallpaper and then paint.
Buying all new appliances, having them delivered and installed
Picking out cabinets, flooring, tile, etc.
Hiring someone to install them.
Picking out countertops and hiring someone to install.
Having the cabinets and flooring delivered (my hubby has to pick up) and installed.
Having countertops delivered and installed
Odds and ends like new curtains, hardware and outlet covers, etc.

Much harder and longer than my 16 week marathon training plan. It leaves me wondering why I decided to do this and if I will get to that finish line…

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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

August 27, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for August ’21

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 ran short races on the weekend when I should have been doing my LSD for my upcoming half marathon.

Yes, I do use a rough training plan but I’m not good with following it.

- 07-04– Firecracker 4 – should have been 5 miles
- 07-25- FASNY 5k – should have been 8 miles
- 08-07– Run for the Roses 5k – should have been 10 miles
- 08-14 – Whipple City 10k – should have been 11 miles

2. I runfess…

I don’t learn from my mistakes, I signed up for two 5ks before my October 3 half marathon.

- 09-11 – Malta 5k – should be 11 miles
- 09-25 – Freihofer Run for Women – should be 8-10 miles

3.I runfess…

I love our trail runs but because it’s often technical, hilly or muddy, I walk much of the run.

But my runfession is that I count them as running miles (not walking miles). Sue me.

4. I runfess…

I was very excited about signing up for three months of Peleton. I had good intentions of using it for walks, strength training maybe even yoga.

Nope, not happening yet. I think I used it for once. My excuse is that I have not been running solo. I have no good excuse (besides, work, life, etc) for not using it for those other areas.

5.I runfess…

Without any walking challenges, I am walking much less when working from home. I know why. I use my free time to do household things like cleaning, laundry. etc.

I go back to the office in a week and the good news is that I WILL walk during my lunch hours (not much else to do.)

I need to limit my daily intake of Starbucks too

Unfortunately, running will be a rush to get it done before darkness and mostly alone. More importantly not forgetting to bring everything I need for all weather conditions.

back to after work runs at UAlbany

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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

August 20, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Sign Up for the Freihofer Run For Women

Freihofer's Run for Women 5K

I’m sure that most of you do not live in the Albany, NY area or will not be traveling to this area, so you will want to sign up for the VIRTUAL version of this race.

Click HERE to register.

This is a great way to take part in the Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k for 2021, outside of the in-person event.

And here’s why you should sign up:

1.You could run it with me!!

I have run this race every year since I’ve started running (even when injured.)

running with others virtually is fun and motivating

2. I have a Discount Code.

As an ambassador for this race, I get a discount for the registration fee that I can share with you.

For $10 off, enter this code: AMBDC10

3. You will receive great Swag.

A gender-specific tank and a cool medal.

4. You will be donating to a Charity.

5. You can run it anytime and anywhere.

Once registered, you will receive a series of emails with instructions. You will have one week to complete a 5k run on your own and upload results to our site. You can run/walk your 5K any time between September 19 and September 26, 2021. After completing your 5k, your results will be posted and your swag will be mailed out.

This was my 12th time in 2019. #13 was cancelled but hopeful for 2021.

Happy Running! Have you ever run this race? Will you this year? How about doing it virtually with me?

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:

August 13, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Returning to Peloton

In January of 2020, I joined a two month free trial of Peoton.

I didn’t take advantage of all parts of it but I did enjoy the indoor bike rides and the outdoor runs (I don’t have a treadmill.)

But it was not enough to pay for it. So I did not renew my membership.

I posted why here.

However, on July 31, I signed up for a Peloton membership again for 3 months.

And here’s why:

1.They offered a 3 month membership for the price of one month.

Hey, I’m cheap. What can I say?

But actually I wanted to see the changes and if it worked out better for me this time.

2. My evening group runs will be ending soon.

I run with a group on Monday, Wednesdays and Thursdays evenings and do my long run or a race on the weekend with others.

they were fun while they lasted

But I will be running solo again and will be able to use the Peloton app during my runs.

Peloton's app is getting cheaper for millions of people - CNN

3. I want to try the app for walking and walk ups/cool downs in addition to running.

I am not sure if these options were available when I first tried Peloton or maybe I just didn’t use them

The Best Peloton Running and Fitness Classes to do at home

4. I hope to try out stacking more than one workout especially to make a run longer.

One of my criticisms was than the runs were by time and did not often fit the distance that i wanted to run.

Your Workouts Just Got Even Better With These New Features | The Output

With the “stacking” functionality, I can add a warm up and cool down and even combine more than one running class.

How to Use Peloton Stacked Classes | POPSUGAR Fitness

5. I do not belong to a gym so if I could motivate myself, I can take advantage of other workouts in addition to running.

Peloton App How Much Does it Cost? | Pricing Info & Free-Trial

I could take a yoga class or even do some strength training, stretching or cardio.

Happy Running! Did you sign up for the new Peloton trial membership? If you already use the Peloton app, what benefits does it offer you as a runner? 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:

August 6, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for August ’21

It’s that time of the month…

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

I’ve only been working in the office for three days a week but after 18 months of working from home, it has been a HUGE adjustment.

And now I even have to wear a mask ALL day!

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that what I miss the most about working from home is being flexible with the time I can run. If I’m in the office, occasionally I may run before work but usually it has to be after work. And if the weather is bad, I have to skip the run.

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’ve again joined the Freihofer’s Training Group. I usually participated in the Advanced group. But due to COVID restrictions, the groups are smaller and more numerous but the only Advanced group is scheduled on Thursdays which is my Trail Runs night. So until they are over, I’ll run with the Intermediate Group on Mondays after work.

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that in last month’s Coffee Update, I said that I had no races scheduled until September. Well, all of a sudden, I’ve run a 4 miler and a 5k.

: Firecracker 4

: FASNY 5k

I also signed up for another 5k and a 10k in August. And then a NEW local Half Marathon on Sept 4.

haha My Favorite Run

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am most excited about running in NYC on Aug. 30. I had plans to go to NYC for the Van Gogh exhibit, a college reunion and weekend on the Hamptons. But I extended the weekend one more day so I could run in Central Park or along the Hudson R.

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I did take advantage of the Peleton special pricing – 3 months for the price of one. I joined on July 31 so that once my group runs end in September, I can use the app for my outdoor solo runs

Matty, I’ll be back soon!!

and for my neighborhood walks.

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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

July 30, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions/Shoefessions for July ’21

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

This month’s should actually be called Shoefessions.

that's totally true;) | Running humor, Running, Running workouts

1. I runfess…

I went to our local running store to buy more Gu. The cashier asked me if I needed any running shoes. It was hard to refuse but I said “No, because you don’t carry Topos.”

And he replied, “We just started to but they are not displayed yet.”

Well, you know the rest of the story…

Do you have a hard time resisting buying new running shoes in a store?

2. I runfess…

I have several types of Topos – actually 3 (FlyLyte, Ultrafly and Magnifly). They are all wearing out at the same time because I alternate them.

: Flylyte

: ultrafly

: magnify

I was tempted to buy another pair but I also wanted to try the two types that I don’t own – Phantom and Cyclone.

Do you buy the same shoe or do you like to try different ones?

3.I runfess…

So the salesperson brought me the Phantoms in grey and the Cyclones in sky blue.

I didn’t like either of the colors. In fact, the color choice for Topos are really lacking.

In the end, I asked them to order both in white (ok, at least it’s neutral and I do not have any white shoes.)

Does color matter to you when choosing a running shoe?

4. I runfess…

I usually only buy shoes online if I have run in them before. I like to try them on in the store to see if they are comfortable and run in them.

However when I went to the shoe to pick up my shoes, I was pressed for time. So I just grabbed them and left.

Do you buy you shoes online or do you try them on in the store?

5.I runfess…

My plan was to run in both pairs and then decide which pair I liked, if any and return one or both.

: 3 miles in Cyclones

Well, I liked both. The Phantoms are heavier and have more support so good for longer time on my feet. The Cyclones are light and airy so better for short runs and short races. So I kept them both.

My justification: Saved $$ on gas not going back to the store, had $25 & $5 coupons for the store and at work, if we participate in Virgin Pulse and get $100 each quarter (Mar, June, Sept, Dec). IOW, that second pair was free!!

Do ever buy TWO pairs of running shoes at the same time?

Happy Running! Anything to runfess or shoefess 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 Zenaida!

So Join in!

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

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

July 23, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Returning to Racing

There was a LONG drought in racing due to COVID-19.

Some runners resorted to virtual racing. We know it was not the same but it helped with our mojo.

Others started back early when there were still restrictions.

Many waited until they got vaccinated.

Others still have have reservations about racing again.

I ran two in-person races in November and December of 2020.

: 2020

: Winter Classic 5k

and 8 more so far in 2021 (and a 5k this Sunday!)

: Feb 14 – Ft. Lauderdale HM

: Mar. 13 – Electric City 5m

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: May 22 – 5k

: June 12 – 4m

: July 4 – 4m

I was never nervous about in-person racing and trusted that all the precautions in place would keep runners safe. But it is definitely more enjoyable now that restrictions have mostly been lifted. (Still I can’t wait until things are totally back to normal!!)

Here are some of my tips for getting back into racing:

1. Start by running with others.

For so long you were probably running alone. The first step is to reach out to friends and plan some group runs.

2. Do some consistent mileage during the week and a long run on the weekend.

Without any races on your schedule, you may have skipped some of your runs. Go out and run at least twice a week.

Add in a long run on Saturday or Sunday but it doesn’t even have to be very long. It should just be longer than your weekday run.

3. Talk your friends into joining you. FOMO is real.

Not all my friends are excited about racing. But I am lucky to have a few that I talk into my insanity.

4. Buy something new.

A new outfit or new shoes will perk up your racing mojo.

5. Do Your Research and Pick a Race that you are comfortable with. And SIGN UP!!

Some races still offer COVID-19 precautions. Some more than others.

Everyone that I know who has returned to racing has not regretted it!!!!

Happy Running! Have you returned to racing? If so, what tips do you have? 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:

July 16, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Highlights of the Olympic Trials

Schedule and Results: 2021 US Olympic Track and Field Trials - LetsRun.com

Believe it or not, when the Olympics are on TV, I prefer to watch gymnastics and swimming.

But this year, as a runner, I decided to watch the track events on the Olympic Trials. (Even you go to bed early, you could have watched them all on YouTube.)

And they sure did not disappoint.

Now I am even more excited for the Olympics.

Revised) Tokyo 2020 Olympic Timetable for Track & Field, and the 400-200 Double

Here are some of the things that stood out for me:

1. The Heat.

Yikes. 100 degrees temps. Many events postponed to earlier when the temps were cooler.

Competitor Faints At Olympic Trials Due To Extreme Heat | The Daily Caller

However, the women’s 5000m final did go off in 94 degree heat.

Um, 50 degrees is my ideal temp for running.

Kudos to those runners for running in these temps and doing so well.

2. Longevity

Allyson Felix made her fifth Olympics team. What an amazing career she has had (and two kids along the way.)

She is an inspiring woman runner. Will she retire or go for #6?

What We Learned From Day 3 of the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials - The New York Times

3. New Roles

Former 2008 and 2021 Olympian, Kara Goucher did not compete but instead she was a commentator for NBC.

Kara Goucher won't race U.S. Olympic Trials, report says - OlympicTalk | NBC Sports

And she was great. I really enjoyed her intelligent and knowledgeable remarks.

Olympics: NBC hires Goucher as distance analyst | Duluth News Tribune

4. Good/Bad

Rio 2016: 'Olympic spirit' illustrated by Nikki Hamblin, Abbey D'Agostino after fall on track - ABC News

The Good: Abby Cooper ran the Olympic Standard in 5000m in her comeback (Remember her 2016 collision and subsequent knee surgery.)
The Bad: The next day Abby only came in 4th and does not get an Olympic berth in the 5000m.

2021 Olympic Trials - Abbey Cooper Hits the 5,000-Meter Olympic Standard

5. Sad News.

Sha’Carri Richardson won the 100m.

2020 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Team Trials - Day 2

Then she failed a drug test (for marijuana) and will not be able to compete in the Olympics.

The Undefeated on Twitter: "Nike is sticking with its athlete, Sha'Carri Richardson, after she tests positive for cannabis and is disqualified from competing in the Tokyo Olympics' 100m race. (Via @aardodson)… https://t.co/7AfguC0OYJ"

One extra – Fashion:

Emily Sisson had to drop out of the Marathon trials but redeemed herself winning the 10,000m wearing a pair of her husband’s Goodrs. (My favorite sunglasses).

Christina Clemons made her first Olympic team in the 100m Hurdles and wore a pair of Doritos earrings. (I like Doritos too)

us olympic track and field team trials

Happy Running! Did you watch the Olympic Trials? If so, what did you enjoy most?? 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:

July 9, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Trail Running

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I am clumsy. I have fallen when running on the road and have fallen even during races.

check out the blood streaming down my leg

So who would have guessed that this summer, I am running on trails.

Obviously after only a few trail runs, I am not an expert but here are FIVE of my tips to help you enjoy your time running on the trails:

1. Wear Proper Running Shoes.

You can run with normal running shoes but wearing shoes made for trail running will give you more grip on the uneven rocky or muddy ground. It will also give you peace of mind.

we got muddy but no one fell

2. Use Bug Spray/Tick Repellent.

Yes, trails especially in the summertime are buggy. I even spray insect repellent on my clothes. I also wear compression calf sleeves to protect my legs from ticks.

sweaty but smiling because we had no bug bites

3. Never Run Alone.

Because on the trails there is a greater possibility of either getting lost or falling, I think it is always best to run with a buddy. If you are alone (or get separated from your friend), make sure you have a charged cell phone with you!

hanging with my buddy Deirdre at Lawson Lake

4. Run on Different Trails.

Even running on the SAME trails can get boring. If you are not fortunate to be part of group-organized trail runs, explore the Internet and the AllTrails app to find trails within driving distance of where you live or work. You’ll be surprised at how many hidden treasures you’ll discover.

at Five Rivers minutes from where I live

5. Slow Down and Enjoy the Scenery

In other words, look around. Listen to the different sounds. Don’t miss a distant lake or not stop at an overlook. Trail running definitely gives you the opportunity to appreciate nature more. It’s ok to walk. It’s not the time to work on speed. I recommend not even wearing a watch!!

stopping an an overlook in Thacher Park

enjoying the trails at Indian Ladder Farms

Happy Running! Do run on trails? If so, any other tips? 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:

July 2, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for July ’21

It’s that time of the month…

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

I am very excited to go boating again on Lake George. If only the weather would be consistently warm on the weekends.

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I start working in the office next week. BOO!!

I need to wear nice clothes, jewelry and make up, pack a lunch and bring the appropriate clothes (and snack) to run after work.

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have NO races on my schedule this summer.

Very strange. I even ran several races during the Pandemic and many many virtual ones.

Since we now CAN race, I have no desire to do a virtual one.

(Late update: I lied. On a whim, I recently registered for a race this coming weekend.)

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have been a Skirt Sports ambassador since the beginning. Last year they merged with ZOOMA. Now they have added Momentum jewelry. So now I represent all three brands.

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’ve been consistently running 10 miles each weekend until I have not…

I started to slack off in May when I was in Florida. Once you stop, it’s so easy not to continue. So in June, I haven’t as well.

only 4 miles!!

Until my friends and I have a half marathon to train for, I just may run less….

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that although I will going back to the office for work next week, I do not know when I will be travelling again. I miss running in different locations. I miss my hotel points!!!