June 2, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Favorite Vacation

Since it’s Friday, I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

Today’s topic is FIVE REASONS WHY I ENJOY MY ANNUAL TENNIS VACATION:

1. It’s affordable.

Every year, I go to Naples, Fla. in May. It’s off-season so the flights are not expensive. We rent two villas that sleep 5 each. (It’s costs us about $250 each for 8 days.) We leave our chairs, umbrellas and beach stuff in the garage from year to year. We rent 2 vans and split the cost. We eat breakfast in the villa, bring our lunch to beach so we only eat dinner out.

2. The weather is warm and dry.

It rarely rains and if it does, it is only for a short time. It is warm (and at that time of year, usually still cool in the NE.) The sunsets on the Gulf are amazing, too.

3. I run.

This is one of the best things, of course. I can run around the private communities or on the sidewalk along the main road. The only downside is that it is not close enough to the beach to run with water views. And you have to get up early since it is warm and humid.

4. I play tennis and take lessons.

The 10 of us (and the make-up of the group can vary) met playing tennis although we no longer play together at home. So every morning we play doubles and take lessons with a tennis pro.

5. I go to the beach every day.

Love the sand…the sun…the water…ahhhh!

Bonus:

I eat and drink whatever pleases me!!

Happy Running! Do you have a favorite vacation?

May 26, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Fashion

Today’s topic is Misc. so I am choosing last week’s topic of Fashion.

I’m an adult late onset athlete.

I started playing tennis in my 40’s. I always maintained that if I didn’t pay “good,” at least I looked “good.”

I have the same philosophy when it comes to running (which I started in my 50’s.). I like to look “good.”

Here are FIVE REASONS WHY FASHION MATTERS TO ME:

1. Self Esteem.

Simply put: If I dress like a runner, I feel like a runner.

2. Practicality

I wear SkirtSports because they have pockets. I can carry my car key, my phone, fuel, etc. when I run. Plus, the pockets are hidden under the skirt.

I have tissues, Gu and car key in those pockets.

3. Motivation.

If I’m in a slump and don’t feel like running, I put on a new outfit. It’s puts zip in my step and gets me out the door.

a cold day but a new skirt!

4. Comfort.

I wear skirts because they are more comfortable to me than shorts. They cover my thighs and the shorts underneath don’t ride up.

5. Safety.

Wearing bright colors can help you be seen on a dark, rainy or foggy day/night.

So I may be partial to Skirt Sports but many other brands accomplish the same thing. (You can save 20% on Skirt Sports items with the code SPRINGCPT20).

Take my advice: Wear what makes you look good, makes you feel good and makes you want to get out there and run.

Don’t worry. My Runfessions are coming tomorrow.

Happy Running! Do you think fashion is important? Do you care about what you wear when you run?

May 19, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Speed Drills

Today’s topic is Misc. so I am choosing Five Drills to Get You Faster

I’m not a fan of workouts or any drills but when I participate in the Freihofer or Troy Turkey Trot Training Challenge, on Monday nights, coach Patrick has us do drills. Why? To run a faster 5k or 10k.

I always protest and he knows that, plus sometimes they come the day after my legs have been tired out from a long run or half marathon.

However, begrudgingly I do them.

The result: the first year (2014-5), I PRed at every distance.

So here’s some of the speed drills that we do:

1. One minute strides (5 of them)

These are my favorites. After a warm up, you run as fast as you can for one minute. Then recover. As Patrick says, “You can do anything for one minute.”

2. 400 m @ 5k pace followed by 200m recovery (4-6 of them)

It’s hard to not to run these fast but you realize that you can’t halfway through the first set and then you slow down to a 5k pace (which is still fast.)

3. Hill Repeats. Incline for at least 200m.

there is a long hill in this park…but I didn’t get a picture on it.

4. 800 m @ 5k pace followed by 400 m recovery. (4-6 of them)

These are my least favorite. 800 m running fast seems like forever.

5. Race a 5k.

This one is not recommended but it’s the one I enjoy the most. Even if it is a fun run, I always try to run well and for me, it’s the best speed drill.

Happy Running! Do you do speed work? What drills do you do?

May 5, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Non-Race-cations

Since I am currently is Naples, FL, I am choosing my topic as Five Ways to Enjoy a Non-Race-cation.

The majority of my vacations are race-cations. But once a year, I go on vacation without a race included during the trip.

And yes, I do have fun anyway and here’s how:

Find another sport that gets you moving.

I usually play tennis for at least two hours every morning. Not many miles on the legs when playing doubles but I’m still moving (and sweating.)

But it could be yoga, swimming, biking, etc.

2. Get those miles in however you can.

isn't this even more inviting??

No better place to walk than along the water.

bike riding every morning around World Tennis Center

I also have access to a bike to ride around the neighborhood.

And if you are lucky, there may be places nearby to go hiking. Visiting museums or roaming interesting shops and markets give your those extra steps.

3. If possible, squeeze in a few short runs.

It’s tough when you stay out late every night and you get up early to play tennis. So my runs are short but still rewarding.

4. Do other things you enjoy that you don’t normally get to do.

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We go to the theater. Last year we went to a comedy club.

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We visit gardens & parks.

during our sunset cruise
We go on sunset cruises. I hope to also get to go kayaking one year.

5. Eat healthy during the day but in the evening, do some no-guilt splurging.

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I eat my usual oatmeal in the morning, yogurt & fruit at the beach for lunch and then…. No limits!

We go out to dinner every night. It is always a blast.

Happy Running! Do you take non-race-cations? If so, what do you do to for fun instead of racing?

April 21, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Pampering

Today’s topic is Pampering.

I don’t get massages or pedicures like many runners do but here’s how I ~~spend money~~ pamper myself or make myself feel good.

1. Hair

Every 5 weeks without fail, I cut and color my hair. I also get highlights once a year.

no, I will NEVER let my gray hair show

2. Nails

I also have my fingernails done about as frequently as my hair. Always a French manicure (so it doesn’t show if I let it go.) I also always have my toes polished (a dark color) but I do them myself.

I mean my nails have to look good when I take pics of my medals LOL

you see why I don’t waste money on these pretty babies

3. Starbucks

I don’t buy them as often as I used to but I do indulge every now and then. They just taste so good!

4. Drinks and Dinners Out

I’m not a homebody and when a friend or my hubby suggests going out for a drink or a bite to eat, I never hesitate to accept the invitation.

5. Ice Cream

Ice cream cones, root beer floats, whatever. They get me through many of my long runs. I don’t feel a bit guilty about the calories.

Happy Running! How do you pamper yourself? Do you get the runner traditional massage and pedicure?

April 14, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Spring Running

Today’s topic is Spring Running.

This is what spring running means to me:

1. Dry Places to Run

Yes to No Ice, No Snow, No Mud….

2. Pretty Scenery

Yes to Green Leaves and Colorful Flowers

3. No More Tights, Capris, Gloves and Jackets

Yes to Skirts, Tanks, and Baseball Caps…

4. Long Races Out of Town and Short Races in Town

Image result for shape women's half marathon

Image result for steel rail half marathon mass
Freihofer's Run for Women 5K

5. Running Groups

I am part of the Freihofer Training Challenge Group. I run with them every Monday.

last year’s group photo at the race – there are several group that run in different locations and times.

I also volunteer with the STEM program on Wednesdays.

we follow the Couch to 5k program and train victims of Domestic Violence to complete a 5k.

Happy Running! What does spring running mean to you? Please share.

April 7, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0- Beverages

Today’s topic is Beverages.

On Tuesday, I talked about what I drink before, during and after a run/race.

So today these FIVE drinks are not necessarily running-related but they are what I’ve been enjoying lately:

1. Starbucks

lattes and frappuccinos

love the new spring cups…wish I had gotten one 😦

Will be adding this to my collection next November:

Las-Vegas

2. Teas

chai, mint, chocolate

TRADER JOE'S CHOCOLATE MINT FLAVORED BLACK TEA 20 BAGS

3. Red Wine

I used to prefer white wine and then I gave up alcohol in an attempt to improve my sleeping. It didn’t so I’m back.

4. Hard Cider

Zombie Killer is my favorite (tart cherry cider) and apple cider with a shot of Fireball is da bomb!

5. Starbucks Smoothies

in particular Chocolate Banana. This is running-related. I’ll drink them if I am running after work and won’t have time to eat dinner until late. They taste great and give you that needed energy.

Happy Running! What are your favorite beverages?

March 31, 2017 by Darlene

Runfessions – March

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

And it’s Friday so here’s FIVE runfessions:

1. I runfess…

I impulsively applied for several ambassadorships.

I didn’t get accepted to this one 😦

But I did get selected for this one:

The problem is that I’m not sure if I can run any of their races!!

June 3 – ZOOMA Annapolis – nope – but can do the virtual 10K
October 6 – ZOOMA Cape Cod – a week after Wineglass but maybe since I can drive there and if I get a roommate.
October 22 – ZOOMA Amelia Island – nope – too expensive for flight & hotel
March 10 – ZOOMA Austin – doubtful, too far, too hilly, too expensive

I do intend to promote these races. Here is my discount code:

It’s DARLENE2017 to get 10% any race registration.

2. I runfess…

Speaking of impulsiveness… remember how I wanted one more late fall half marathon and another reunion with the #holottafun ladies?

Well, I registered for a big race!

Nov 11-12, 2017

This is my first BIG half marathon and I am pretty excited.

LV-16-Remix-Medal-layers_v2

I also registered for the 5k the day before. (I do not plan to race it – just finish and claim my bling.)

I already have a roommate, hotel and flight. This is real!!

So stay tuned…we’re reuniting and even adding more cool bloggers.

3. I runfess…

I planned to take a Hot Yoga class last Saturday. I registered and paid. Plus it was a fundraiser for STEM. I went to the gym and then my friend asked me to help her with her computer. It took longer than expected. She offered me a Peruvian lunch…. Well, I didn’t make it to yoga (at least they got my money.) and then I went to the movies and had popcorn (which I never do!!) After the movie, we went out for pizza. Another fundraiser. I had to do it. So much for my healthy Saturday.

4. I runfess…

Speaking of unhealthy eating… I fell off the wagon at work. Well, maybe I was never on it. But work has been such a bore so this happened:

And yes, they were good!!! Ever try any of the new flavors?

5. I runfess…
That being said … I’ve also been so sick of this cold weather that I have tried to pretend that despite the cold, wind and snow, it is SPRING:

post run treat on a cold day (we still have snow!)

or maybe it’s that a lot of blogger friends have been on vacation and enjoying warm weather. Serious FOMO.

Since it’s also Friday, I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

Happy Running! Anything to Runfess? Spill…

March 24, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Food for Running

It’s Friday and I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup!
Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

This week, the topic is: Food.

So what would someone who doesn’t cook much and whose post-run fuel is usually ice cream write about??

I am going to share what I use for energy before or during my runs:

1. GU

It works for me so why switch? They don’t upset my stomach and they are easy to carry on a run.

My favorite flavors are:

with caffeine – Salted Caramel, Caramel Macchiato, Chocolate Outrage
without caffeine – Root Bear, Peanut Butter

2. Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars

They come in loads of flavors but I usually eat the plain fig or the blueberry.

They are made with 0g of trans fat, all natural, whole wheat , and are Non GMO, Kosher, and cholesterol-free. Some flavors are even gluten-free.

3. Bananas

runners and bananas

I love to eat them and they are a good source of potassium which is said to help prevent muscle cramping. Plus they come in their own wrapper. LOL.

4. Starbucks Chocolate Banana Smoothie

I am sure it must be heathier than a Latte or a Frappuccino, right? (This is obviously a pre or post run treat.)

It contains: A nourishing blend of mocha flavored sauce, a whole banana, milk, whey protein and fiber powder, and ice.

5. Larabar Bites

Are they healthy? Not sure but they do taste good. Here’s what their website says:

All 4 indulgent flavors are made from just 5-6 simple ingredients and are gluten free, non-GMO, vegan, and dairy free.

Happy Running! What do you eat for energy?

March 17, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Running in the Spring

It’s Friday and I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup!
Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

This week, the topic that I am choosing is: Five Reasons to Love Running in the Spring.

Ironically, we have TWO FEET of the snow on the ground and it looks far from spring. But it will melt …eventually…right?

And Spring is my favorite season to run.

1. More Hours of Daylight

I have a hard time getting out of bed early enough to run before work. In the spring, it is still light enough to run after work. I love it!!

winter

spring

2. Less Baggage

I usually run after work so I have to carry all my running gear to work. In the spring, my bag will be so much lighter. No gloves, no jackets, no vests, no tights, no extra layers, etc.