March 9, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Race-cation Tips

It’s Friday so 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.

The Topic for today is: Oldie But Goodie (Re-Purpose an old Friday Five Post)

So here’s an old one for you:

lh5k

Plan early.

Pick out a race and register. Decide how you are going to get there (drive or fly?) Arrange lodging (hotel or friends’ place?) Even decide how you get to the race start (walk, drive, subway, taxi, friend?)

It is less stressful to know all the details of your race-cation way in advance.

trained for this race together and/or roomed together.

2. Start packing early but prepared for last minute changes in weather.

I start a few weeks in advance. I use a bed in my spare bedroom. Sometimes, I use an extra laundry basket. And everything I think of something to bring, I put in the pile. You can’t do it all in advance because as we know, the weather forecasts will change. And the forecast is not always accurate. So bring a shirt for a warmer forecast and one for a cooler one. Bring a rain poncho & an umbrella. Of course, bring throw away clothes.

I thought that it didn’t rain in southern California.

3. Bring your race morning breakfast and any special food that you require.

I never count on that a friend or hotel will have what I usually eat. I bring packets of oatmeal/cream of wheat and coffee/tea. (Don’t forget a cup, bowl & spoon.) I also pack energy bars in case I need a snack the day before.

4. Plan to arrive at least 2 days before the race.

Of course, you’ll have time to relax. And if you car breaks down or your flight is cancelled, you won’t miss your race. (Yes, it happened to me twice.) And you will have time to get used to the weather or altitude by doing a test run.

From winter in the NE to winter in Fla. What a difference!

5. Have fun! Plan things to do in addition to running a race.

Do some sightseeing. Visiting a new place is one of the perks of a destination race!!

Ignore the hair but got to climb to the top of a lighthouse after a Florida race.

and why should you??

Happy Running! Any other tips for taking race-vacations? Please Share.

March 6, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: Say “No” to Treadmill Running

Image result for treadmill meme

Some like it and some hate it. I’m sure that runners can all list the benefits of running on the treadmill i.e. you can run when the conditions outside are less than desirable.

I am one of the haters. I don’t own one and I run on one very very rarely.

So here are my reasons why you should NOT run on a treadmill.

Lack of air resistance

When running on the treadmill, it is obvious that you are not running through the air. When running outdoors, the wind raises resistance. The quicker you run, the more you feel the air resistance over you. To me, running seems so much harder when there is wind. And we to prepare for such conditions.

I struggled running into the wind during this race

Less front slope

Some studies have shown that runners run with less forward inclination of the body when they train on the treadmill. Leaning forward is essential as it maximizes the runner’s ability (and energy) to move forward. Of course, we want this when we race.

Unrealistic Running surface

The treadmill surface is obviously uniformly level and soft. This offers a significant disadvantage. When running outdoors, the surface is mixed: stones, soft and hard surfaces, wet or dry points, and combinations of all these. Running on these varied surfaces is a challenge but it is an important aspect of training as these different surfaces have impact on the muscles, joints and affect balance. And it is rare that we race on a flat, straight (no curves), soft surface.

Lack of visual perception

When running outdoors, you move between trees, buildings, cars and other people. When you’re on the treadmill, you are not actually moving so you do not have all this visual experience that gives you the feeling of running. If you are lucky, you can look through a window or at a computer/TV screen. Not the same!!

Shorter Length of Stride

The limited physical size of the treadmill can give you the impression that either you will step off the treadmill or that you will fall. This usually leads to smaller and/or more perpendicular strides. I know that I run at a slower pace on the treadmill because when I up the speed, I feel like I will fall off. I can only comfortably sprint in a race or at the end of a training run outdoors.

Running on a limited space

You may feel claustrophobic when running on a treadmill because you are usually in close and restrained space. There’s nothing like the feeling of the great outdoors (even when it is 0 degrees.)

Lack of Confidence

Many runners who do their training runs on the treadmill do not feel properly trained for races (for many of the reasons I mentioned above.)

Boring and monotonous

Running “in the same spot” aka the “dreadmill” can be very boring and very monotonous. No matter what I try…podcasts, music, TV…. 3 miles feels like 13 miles!!

Related image

So there you have it. If you avoid the treadmill like I do, you now have reasons to justify your decision to run outdoors…no matter what.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Happy Running!! How do you feel about the treadmill? Please share.

March 5, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.26.18-3.4.18: Job #2

Again the second week in a row that I did not travel for work. Because I took time off from Job #1 to work Job #2. Hey, I gotta pay for those race-cations!

Last week –

Monday – After a rainy cold Sunday, the sun came out. It was very windy and felt colder than the actual temps. But glad to get a run in at one of my favorite stops – The Crossings.

in the bottom left pic, you can see a decorated Xmas tree

Tuesday – for Job #2 I worked at my old job’s locale. It was so nostalgic to get to run in nearby Washington Park. There was no wind today so more pleasant but I had to rush to beat the sunset.

in the pic on the bottom right, a runner is taking a photo of her dog.

Wednesday – Back at Job #1 and almost 60 degrees motivated me to run for the 3rd day in a row. Got a late start and had to run a speedy 2 miles in the dark back to my car.

used the flashlight on my iphone…wish I had my knuckle lights

Thursday – Back at Job #2. Finally a rest day and dinner out with a former colleague whom I had seen in awhile.
Friday – Rest Day #2 in a row due to the lousy weather. Yes, we had a SNOWSTORM!!! Even my evening of mah jongg was cancelled 😦

pretty unless you have drive or run in it.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. I had 12 on the schedule and was hoping for some company for at least part of the run. Always a challenge to figure out where to run and if the road/path is clear from ice and snow. Barbara offered to run with me but that before we had all that snow on Friday. So I ended running up with some other friends at the Crossings for 3.5 miles. The roads were all clear but not the paths so after my friends left, I ran 4 miles in a nearby neighborhood but when I returned to the park, the paths had been cleared so I finished up there. Probably my slowest long run ever. But happy that I didn’t give up.

Afterward I had a hair and nails appt.

Sunday – Rest Day Sunday – a weekly tradition especially with upcoming my 5 day work trip to NYC.

This Coming Week –

Monday – train to NYC, 3 miles in NYC, tennis tournament at MSG
Tuesday – 4 miles in NYC
Wednesday – 3 miles in NYC, NYRR book signing event
Thursday – 3 miles in NYC with SSA
Friday – rest day, train home
Saturday – 8-10 tapering miles
Sunday – rest day

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and NEW host Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How are you dealing with winter? have you had spring temps yet? Please share.

March 3, 2018 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date – March

It’s that time of the month…

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

cherry mocha frap = yummy

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I bought myself a Valentine’s Day gift. I mean I was alone working in NYC. I deserve it right?

What was it you ask?

Ever buy your own Valentine’s gift?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I planned to meet up and run with a Skirt Sports ambassador while NYC. But we couldn’t coordinate the run so we just met to chat. About running, of course. After an hour or so, we felt like we’d known each other for years. Runners are great. Or maybe it was the two glasses of wine. I promised her next time that we would run before the wine.

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that yes, I did register for the inaugural Brew 2 Brew Half Marathon in Vero Beach, Fla. You knew I would. I’m not super excited about it. So the good news is that I won’t be disappointed if it sucks.

instead of running along the ocean, I will be running in a mall parking lot and airport parking lot.

Anyone else running this race?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am spending all of March away from home. NYC, then Florida, NYC, Liverpool, NY and back to NYC.

Yeah, my bags are always packed (with running clothes.)

next week or the end of the month, in NYC, I hope to run in Riverside Park

Over coffee…

I’d tell that it’s not even spring and I’m trying to plan my fall races. As a Rock N Blogger, I need to run a Rock n Roll race. Montreal is the only one that I can get to. But my running buddy who was supposed to go with me cannot go. So I am trying to recruit a companion or five so I don’t have to go alone. I think I have convinced most of the Wineglass ladies to come with me…

Hoping we can make our fall Girls Weekend an annual thing.

all but Judy and Jan plan to come and Heidi (not pictured) is coming too

Over coffee…

I’d tell that speaking of fall races and running buddies, I am so excited to be running the Paris race with Karen (IG – @fit_in_france). We’ve met twice in NYC but have never done a race together.

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am really liking my Red Wine lately. And I am having a glass almost nightly.

Sometimes, it’s because I am bored when I travel but I don’t feel guilty because I just read an article about the benefits of drinking red wine:

Its antioxidants have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
You are less likely to suffer from depression.
It increases the amount of good bacteria levels in your digestive tract.
Piceatannol (found in red wine) blocks fat cells from forming.
It can improve your memory and may also decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Are you a red wine drinker?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I stopped by FleetFeet to get more GU and this happened:

I had to buy them. I had a $25 discount that was expiring. These are the new version of my favorite running shoes (NIKE ZOOM Vomero 13s). And they’re green so I can wear them for the Shamrock Shuffle race that I just registered for.

Happy Running! Got anything to spill? Share it here!

March 2, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0: Girls Weekend 2018

Today I am 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.

I have traveled to California (2011, 2013, 2014) and Vermont (2015, 2016) to run races with one friend. I have also spent a weekend in Philly (2014), Panama City Beach (2016), Corning, NY (2017) and Las Vegas (2108) with several other women to run a half marathon. Each of these weekends was So.Much.Fun!!!

So what will it be for 2018?

September 23-24, 2018

It’s early but we’re getting the party started…

raceaddict
My topic for today is Five Reasons to Take a Girls Weekend Race-cation.

1. Training Support

Heidi, Adrienne & I training together for 2014 race weekend in Philly

When you are training for the same race, you get support for your runs and race goals either in person or virtually.

preparing for the Wineglass Half in 2017

2. Cost Savings

Lisa & Andrea – my roommates whom I had never met before the weekend in Philly

It is definitely cheaper to share a room with friends than staying in a hotel solo or with your hubby.

Holly graciously offered her home to 7 running bloggers – most of whom she has never met in person for the Panama Beach Half in 2016

Marcia was my roomie in LV.

3. Visiting New Places

even in the rain, we visited all the sites of Philly

I love to travel and explore new cities. I had never been to Panama City Beach or Corning, NY before my weekend there for a race. I am especially looking forward to Montreal to experience their French culture (and since I haven’t been there in many many years.).

awesome sunsets in Panama City Beach

sightseeing on the way to Corning

4. Sharing Your Racing Experience With Others

I have raced most of my 29 half marathons alone. I have enjoyed each one but not nearly as much as the ones in Philly (in spite of the rain), Panama Beach, Corning and Vegas. And none of these were PRs!!!

All 10 of us at the Wineglass expo

I am sure the same will be true for our Montreal girls weekend (we have 6 definites so far).

5. Forging New Friendships

Andrea & I at VCM relay

The Philly group has kept in touch on Facebook. I have bumped into Andrea at several races. We had planned another race-cation with Lisa but ZOOMA Cape Cod got cancelled. We still hope that another will happen in the future.

I also keep in touch virtually with my Panama City Beach buddies. Some of us repeated this racing experience in Vegas. I hope to run another one with them in the future.

Many of us going to Montreal also ran the Wineglass race in Corning last year. But we always encourage newbies to join the group.

Don’t eating and racing go together?

Happy Running! Have you ever taken a Girls Weekend Race-cation? Do you have one planned for this year?

February 27, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: February Report Card

Well, it looks like February came in like a lion, turned into a lamb, then a lion and then again a lamb. Global warming???

Anyhow, here’s how February worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home. As I mentioned February was a crazy weather month. We had temps anywhere from the single digits to the 70s.

I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights but the good news is that it is staying light longer. I did run while working in NYC and in Buffalo. The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

Long Runs:

Work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. I skipped one since I was snowed in in Buffalo and for the others, I got in the mileage but none was done without a break – meaning I added some miles before or after the run. Not ideal but better than not doing them at all.

: 5 instead of 9 miles

: 4 miles post 4 mi race = 8 miles

Total Mileage:

I have run 76 miles this month so far. Still a little behind on my 1000 mile yearly goal but I have lots of time. And I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran the Polar Cap Race which was a 4 miler and an annual favorite for me. I also ran the last free Winter Series Race, a 4.5 miler. Both were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I also won my age group in both races. A nice perk!

Cross Training:

I only played tennis once indoors. It’s doubles so not a great workout but better than nothing. I wish I could play more but …WORK WORK WORK!!!

I actually did work out at the gym once but only because I was meeting a friend there before going out to dinner.

I went to my FIRST hot yoga class. I loved it and planned to go again but did not. I will be less motivated to go once the weather warms up.

I did walk-occasionally at lunch. Not everyday like I used to. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

I loved watching the Olympics…especially the figure skating.

I can relate. Things don’t always go the way you had hoped.

Image result for ice dance olympics 2018 sib

Then sometimes they do!

I met two new Skirt Sports ambassadors – Bethany, local and Elizabeth in NYC. I hope to run with each one in the future.

I tried my hand at a Challenge. I wasn’t successful but at least I tried.

Image result for squats suprmans twist challenge

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #30 in March.

It’s not the one I planned on running but it’s a race during my vacation in Florida. I will do my best to enjoy the experience.

I have some shorter races planned as well. My racing schedule starts to pick up in the spring.

This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

3-17-18 – Brew 2 Brew Half Marathon (in Fl)
3-25-18 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m)
3-31-18 – Ice Breaker Challenge 5K
4-14-18 – Code Blue 8K and/or 4-15-18 – Delmar Dash (5m)
4-21-18 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k and/or 4-22-18 – Sasha’s Super Hero Run 5k
4-28-18 – Spring Run Off 5k /10k and/or 4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her February Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall a A-

Despite the work travel and crazy winter weather, I did my best to get in my runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it.

Spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner.

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! How did your February turn out? Anything exciting planned for March?

What grade would you give your running month?

February 26, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.19.18-2.25.18: Home Sweet Home

I felt like I was on vacation. Day off. No travel for work. No races. Woo Hoo!

Last week –

Monday – Presidents Day. Boy did I need a day off!! I procrastinated on my run and missed the sunshine. But I did get in a short windy run before the rain.

after all my weekend miles, my legs were feeling it so 2.5 miles was all I could muster

Tuesday – 60 degrees! Woo Hoo! Another quick run after work. And I finally got to play tennis. It had been weeks and it was fun getting out there.

only had time for 2.5 miles but couldn’t resist running in capris and short sleeves

Wednesday – 70 degrees in February!!! It was supposed to be a rest day but with snow predicted for Thursday and rain for Friday, what’s a runner to do? So I went for a run after my dentist appt. In a tank and a skirt!!!

3 miles, an ice cream cone and a mall walk with my BFF

Thursday – Well, winter returned. It snowed today!! Good thing it was finally a rest day! I did have to celebrate National Margarita Day!!

Friday – Rest day #2. Rain, rain. rain. Needed the rest anyway and finally got to play mah jongg.
Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Not excited about the distance nor trying to find a clear road but always look forward to bonding with the Wineglass ladies. Our group was smaller than usual and we all ran or walked different distances. Barbara, this week, was nice enough to run slower and keep me company for 9 miles (I ran 2 before we met.)

we all met up for breakfast where we planned our next girls weekend adventure – in Montreal – in September!!

Sunday – Rest Day Sunday. Don’t worry I wasn’t stuck in the hose all day. Had dinner out with my tennis friends (we do this monthly).

This Coming Week –

Monday – 4 miles
Tuesday – 3 miles
Wednesday – 4 miles
Thursday – rest day, dinner with a friend
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – 12 miles, haircut, nails, errands
Sunday – rest day

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and NEW host Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Home

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How are you dealing with winter? Has your weather been psycho too? Please share.

February 24, 2018 by Darlene

Runfessions – February

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

I runfess…

When I get depressed about the weather, I sign up for spring/summer races. It makes me feel like spring is almost here even though I know that it’s a long way away.

3-31-18 – Ice Breaker Challenge 5K
4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k
5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon
6-02-18 – Freihofer Run for Women 5K
6-30-18 – Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes

Runners at the start of the Cherry Blossom 5K run for ALS research. The evnt was held at Congregation Gates of Heaven, located on Ashmore Ave. on Sunday, April 26, 2015.

Has anyone else already registered for spring/summer races?

I runfess…

I bought my race outfit for my March half marathon before I even signed up for the race.

Skirt Sports of course – use the code 128Card for 15% off

Am I the only one who does this?

I runfess…

I was kinda glad that I got snowed Friday night when I was working in Buffalo. It meant that I could get up later the next morning and run at my leisure instead of driving 5 hours home (in a snowstorm).

So it was supposed to be a long run of 9 miles but…. 5 slow ones was better than nothing.

Anyone else had it with this winter?

I runfess…

I signed up for the Superman, Squats, Russian Twist challenge to motivate myself to do some strength training. And it worked for a while. But I suck at challenges. The rarely did the Supermans because they are too hard for me and then I lost interest when you had to do more than 50. I break them up and I always ran out of time or forgot. And yes, I did some, some of the time which was better than none, never.

Do I look happy?

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share.

February 23, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – The Socks Post

It’s Friday so 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.

My Topic for today is: My Favorite Socks

First, Five Reasons I Wear Legend Compression Wear

1. I’m an Ambassador.

I applied because this brand came highly recommended so I wanted to promote their socks. Happily they accepted me.

To get $15 off, click here

2. My ankle enjoys compression wear.

When I had ankle surgery a few years back, they put a plate and screws in. I want to run for a long time so I am careful and don’t run over 4 miles without compression socks or sleeves.

So far, so good. Zero problems with my ankle.

3. They are easier to get on and off.

I have tried other compression socks and sleeves and I’m sure you know what I mean. They are HARD to get on!!!! Legend Compression Wear are supportive enough but you don’t have to watch a video on how to put them on or break a nail doing so.

They are just as easy to get off even if you are sweaty.

4. Their socks offer graduated compression.

“Graduated Compression has been widely proven to improve symptoms of discomfort, swelling, fatigue and aching of the feet and legs. Graduated compression puts revitalizing pressure on the veins to improve blood flow and circulation. Medical professionals have long recommended compression hosiery to patients to improve blood circulation and overall health of their legs.”

This means that your legs will perform better and recover faster.

As a runner and tennis player, this is important to me.

5. Legend sells a variety of products (and in pretty colors).

There are socks for sports compression (as pictured above) as well as everyday compression. They even make a hiking specific sock called Tuff made of Merino wool

I look forward to wearing my Legend Compression Wear more often once the temps warm up and I can wear a running skirt again!!

Because I usually wear compression sleeves instead of compression socks, I can also wear My Soxy Feet socks.

Secondly, Five Reasons Why I Wear My Soxy Feet Socks

1, I am an Ambassador.

This year, I am lucky to represent another super sock company.

Use code SOXYCARDILLO to get 10% off your purchase

My Soxy Feet is a small, family owned and operated business. They developed this product in hopes of bringing “smiles to athletes of all shapes, sizes and ages and encourage a positive attitude towards health, fitness and a joyful life style.”

Since the founders/owners are avid runners, they understand the challenge of running and how difficult it is some days to stay motivated.

2. They have the cutest and most colorful (mismatched) socks.

My Soxy Feet Sock Rainbow! www.mysoxyfeet.com

3. They have styles for all sports.

I wear these to play tennis.

4. The are so comfortable.

The moisture wicking coolmax fibers keep your feet dry. They are made from nylon and lycra which secure the socks in place. The ventilation mesh enhances breathability. The socks contain targeted cushioning in high impact zones. The toe is seamless and hand-linked to prevent irritation.

5. They motivate and make you smile!

I need to buy both of these!

Happy Running! What are favorite brand of socks? Do you wear compression? Do you like your socks to look cute?

February 20, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: My Least Favorite Part(s) of Running

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Today’s topic is My Least Favorite Part(s) of Running

Well, at least my list isn’t as long as the one for what I LOVE about running.

Injuries

Unfortunately they happen. Knock on wood, I have been blessed the past few years to be injury-free.

broken foot – June 2013 – my last running injury

Cost

Compared to other sports like skiing, tennis, etc, running is fairly inexpensive. But racing fees, running shoes, etc can put a drain on your wallet.

RnR races are not cheap!

When things don’t go right.

You can train and train and do everything right and your race tanks. These are so many variables (health, weather) that interact to make a race NOT go as hoped. Many of these are out of your control and many are in your control.

not thrilled with how I felt during this half (my fault!)

Scheduling Runs

If you don’t train, you can get injured, not get the results you want at a race, etc. (Unless you are one of the lucky few who can just go out and run a fast half marathon with no training.) And yet, it is sometimes so difficult to get in those runs. Family, friends, work, health, weather… they can all put a crimp on your running schedule.