October 8, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Big Hairy Goal (part 1)

This post was inspired by Shalane Flanagan.

Shalane Flanagan Retires from Professional Running - Runner's World

she retired after the NYCM in 2017

She now plans to run all six majors this fall—in person in Berlin, London, Chicago, Boston, and New York, plus a virtual race in place of the postponed Tokyo Marathon AND finish each under 3 hours!!

WOW!! That is a big hairy goal!!!

In 2019, my big hairy goal was to run my FIRST MARATHON.

check!

In 2020, before the pandemic, I planned to run ONE half marathon EACH MONTH. I ran 3 live races (but had to run 6 half marathons virtually.) So I did not run 12 halfs but was proud of my 9 half achievement.

In 2021 – Unfortunately the Pandemic continued. Even though racing opportunities started opening up, I never felt that I would be able to achieve a BIG goal.

For 2022 – I doubt things will be normal (if ever) but it may be time to come up with another BIG goal….

Not sure what that will be yet. Any ideas for me?

But I know what it will NOT be:

run streak
triathlon
ultra
BQ
Ragnar race
obstacle race
50 state challenge
online certification courses

Anyway, here are some reasons to set a Big Hairy Goal:

1. Big goals stretch what we believe is possible.

I have heard many runners say “I can’t….” (Guilty as charged lol)

When we say that, it becomes true.

Of course, we CAN run a marathon!!

Believing is the first step to accomplishing something big.

2. They cause us to make improvements.

It’s easy to get into a rut. For example, we race the same distance or type of race, we may get comfortable and be successful with little effort.

In order to achieve a big goal, you will most likely need to make adjustments – train harder, train differently …

3. If We Allow Ourselves To Dream, We Get Really Excited.

When we stop and think about what it would feel like if we actually achieved that big goal, we get excited. We may buy that 26.2 magnet for our car or a shirt that says “I am a Marathoner.”

The excitement of the possibility pushes us to train and to push forward toward that goal.

4. We will see how far we have come

While the destination is important, it’s the journey that matters most. Without goals, it’s hard to see how far we have come.

I ran 5ks for years. I got faster and was content.

It wasn’t until I ran my first half marathon did I realize how much my running had improved. And an unexpected result of running longer races was that I felt stronger at the shorter ones.

5. It’s OK to swing and miss.

I’ve heard it said that If there’s not a decent chance we’ll fall short, we’re not setting high enough goals.

What if we train for an Ironman and we don’t meet the cutoff after one the legs. We would, of course, be disappointed.

What an accomplishment to have made it to the start line! What did we learn along the way? Was there anything we could have done better? Should we try again?

Happy Running! Are you a “BIG” goal setter? Any other tips to add? 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:

October 1, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Update for Oct. ’21

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’m on my way to NH for a race-cation with friends. I would have been shocked if you told me a year ago that today we’d still be wearing masks and worrying about COVID.

At least this year, the race will be an in-person one.

cooling off after our virtual half last year

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that normally I don’t have time goals for my 2021 half marathons…but I think I want to finish at least be ONE second faster than my last one….so 2:20:56.

The reason being is that my last one of the year will be HILLY and no chance of improvement.

hills of Altamont in the Upstate Classic – Nov. 21, 2021

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that yes, I signed up for another half marathon even before I ran the current one.

No surprise…

Nov 21, 2021

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that boating season has almost ended and hiking season has begun.

The biggest dilemma is where to go…

to new places??

This one was new…

or places that I’ve already visited but loved???

Moxham Mt. last year

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that one home reno project leads to another. First I wanted to get rid of the wallpaper.

That led to new cabinets and appliances.

That led to plank flooring

and granite countertops.

The new flooring made me want to get rid of the carpeting in the family room… (but instead decided to put that on hold and just get our carpets professionally cleaned since we also need a new washing machine and my car needs work done.

What’s next?

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.

September 24, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for Sept. ’21

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 participated in the 10 week Freihofer Train Challenge… As an ambassador, I felt I should support the runners. My runfession is that I did not follow their training plan. But I did enjoy meeting up and running with new and old running friends.

2. I runfess…

For the same reason as above (except that I had pay $$), I signed up for the Troy Turkey Trot Training Challenge.

Registration Open for Troy Turkey Trot Training Challenge - Rueckert Advertising

pic from 2 years ago

3.I runfess…

I almost didn’t sign up because the runs are on Tuesdays. Tuesdays are my rest day.

#nevermissamonday #wednesdaygrouprun #thursdaytrails #longrunsaturday

Yes I’m anal about my schedule.

4. I runfess…

Now that I’m working from home again, I could run before work. But it’s dark out and daylight is decreasing each day.

Work From Home Mugs - CafePress

Yup. Another excuse to enjoy that leisurely morning cup of coffee.

5.I runfess…

My bikes are lonely. Both Big Red and George have gotten zero attention!! I just can’t get motivated this summer to ride either one….

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

September 17, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Tips for “Older Runners”

Recently I posted on Tips for Beginner Runners.

At the time, I got to thinking that many of these tips were still true for us “older” runners. By “older”, I mean OVER 50 years old. (But “older” does NOT mean OLD lol).

I also realized that there may also be some other tips that only apply to those runners who are over 50.

So here you go:

1.Age Groups Rock.

I mean you should not be comparing your pace to someone younger than you.

I used to play competitive tennis and I hated that it seemed to only matter if you won or not and what your score was.

You may not win any awards because the numbers of those running in their later years have been increasing (and quite frankly many are faster than I ever was.)

But still, it’s good that you can see how you compare to someone your own age.

Love how Andrea & I (who was my exact age) would compete with each other.

2. If you keep running, you will most likely get Slower.

I say “most likely” because I’m sure that there are runners who still improve as they age.

But as a rule, after 10 years of running, your finish times will be slower.

So if this bothers you, stop racing. LOL

I admit, it’s not easy to accept that my 5k and half marathon times have reverted to where they were when I first ran those distances.

slow but happy

3. Body Parts Will Hurt.

It’s part of the aging process. But it’s different for each runner.

For me, it’s my lower back. For others, it may be your feet or your hips.

Again, I say, if this bothers you, stop running.

and miss all the fun… !?

4. Misery Loves Company.

In other words, don’t go at it alone. Run with others. Find your tribe!

everyone in this group is over 50 and we know how to have a good time together.

5. Cross Training is even MORE Important as you get Older.

In addition to running, find another activity for those rest days – yoga, walking, weight lifting, spinning, etc.

I do a lot of walking and hiking but in those winter months, my stationary bike was my new best friend.

Happy Running! Are you an “older” runner? If so, any tips to add? 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:

September 10, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Looking Forward to Fall

Whoa! Where did summer go?

I LOVE summer but here are a few things that I will enjoy this Fall:

1.Cooler and Less Humid Weather Conditions.

As I said, I normally love the sunshine and warm temps of summer. But this summer, the humidity really tried my patience.

Hopefully, this Fall, my runs will be more comfortable and hence speedier.

2. Fall Foliage Viewing and More Hiking Activities.

Living in upstate New York, we are usually treated to gorgeous fall colors. Hopefully the awful summer weather will not impact this.

The Fall is also for the same reason, my favorite season to hike in. Boating Sundays will end soon and be replaced by Hiking Sunday.

3. More Racing Ops.

Many of the Fall races are now being held in-person.

Great Pumpkin Challenge

Many of the spring races have been re-scheduled to this Fall.

Freihofer Run for Women

4. A Race-cation with Friends.

Last year, I went to NH with my running friends but the race was cancelled. So this year, we rented a house again and plan to spend 4 days in NH which will include running an in-person race and assorted shenanigans.

after our “virtual” Smuttynose Half Marathon

5. Pumpkin everything and Cider Donuts!

Yes, I do love Fall food!! Especially those with added sugar LOL

Happy Running! Are you looking forward to Fall? If so, what activities do you have planned?

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:

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