March 25, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.19.23-3.26.23: I RAN!

Last Sunday, I spectated at the NYC Half Marathon on a very cold, windy day.

I had to return to NYC for work Tuesday (and stayed there until Friday night).

And again this week, on Tuesday, I’m heading back and I will be there working until Friday night.

But my biggest news is that I ran…. after 34 days of NO Running!

Last Week:

Monday – I finally had my 2nd Ortho appt. They took an x-ray of my foot and the doctor was very pleased. All Healed. No restrictions he said… just don’t twist your foot and fall again.

it was interesting to see the hardware from my ankle surgery

What a relief and I couldn’t wait to celebrate with a run. I drove to UAlbany and cautiously ran/walked about 2 miles.

Tuesday – I took an early train to NYC, checked into my hotel and hopped a subway to Jamaica to set up for my class the next day. When I got back to my hotel, I changed into running clothes and headed to Central Park.

Again I was cautious and ran slow with lots of walk breaks and then I met Cari and Elizabeth for a sushi dinner.

Wednesday – An early subway ride to Jamaica, taught all day, and then took the subway back to my hotel. Not wanting to overdo the running thing, I took the subway to the Harlem Meer part of Central Park and just walked around.

Thursday – My day was similar to Wednesday except that since the forecast was for rain, I has gotten a ticket for a Broadway show. Before the show, I had time to run/walk around Hudson Yards.

Friday – My last day this week teaching in Jamaica and finally a train home.
Saturday – Long Run Day so finally I was able to run with friends before brunch. And we got it done before our wintry mix.

After I had my rescheduled hair appointment.

Sunday – Planned is some errands and some hiking…

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – run, Freihofer Training Challenge
Tuesday-Friday – working in Jamaica, Queens again

As time allows, walks, meet-up with friends and hopefully, some runs after work.

Saturday – Run and Brunch with running friends

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – NYC Half Marathon Race Recap – the Spectator Version
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Do you enjoy spectating races? Any signs of spring where you live? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

March 24, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Five Sources of Mental Clutter

We all know that our minds mess with our running.

Here are a few examples:

1. I’m too old for this. Should I just stick to short distances?

2. My pace is so slow. Maybe I shouldn’t race anymore?

3. I don’t have time to follow a plan. Can I just wing it?

4. Why do I need to walk so often during my runs and races?

5. Am I am pushing my self too hard or not hard enough?

+ Am I injured or just sore?

motivation - your mind

Happy Running! What clutters your brain? 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 21, 2023 by Darlene

TT: Spring Racing Plans

Most of the races that I planned on running this spring were ones that I ran last year and all but one are local.

Of course, I wrote this post before my injury.

03-26-23 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m) – 2022 recap

04-15-23 – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon – 2022 recap

04-30-23 – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k – 2022 recap

05-07-23 – Tropicool 5k (in Naples, FL) – 2022 recap

05-13-23 – Prospect Mountain Road Race (5.7m up a mountain) – 2022 recap

05-18-23 – CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge (3.5m) – 2022 recap

05-28-23 – Miles on the Mohawk 10 miler – 2022 recap

06-03-23 – Freihofer Run for Women (5k) – 2022 recap

06-18-23 – Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k – 2022 recap

I’ve only added new one (of course, that could change):

05-20-23 – Brooklyn Half Marathon – 2018 recap

Due to a date change, I could not run this race but planned to volunteer:

04-16-23 – Delmar Dash (5m) – 2022 recap

So what are my updated plans? Which races will I run this spring?

Possibly Delmar Dash instead of H2H half marathon.
Optimistically Brooklyn Half Marathon and Miles On the Mohawk
Probably the Freihofer Run for Women 5k and Valley Cats 5k

Time will tell…

Big Goal:

Finger Lakes Half Marathon in September!
NYC Marathon in November!

Happy Running! What races do you have on your spring schedule? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

March 20, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.12.23-3.19.23: NYC Bound

Today I was supposed to run the NYC Half Marathon (for the 2nd time)… with two local running friends.

And also to meet up with some awesome bloggers who ran it as well.

Instead of sitting home brooding, I decided to go to NYC anyway and cheer on my friends.

I cancelled my 2023 race entry and so I now have a non-complimentary guaranteed entry for:

in 2024

I also have to return to NYC for work on Tuesday (and stay there until Friday night).

Last Week:

Sunday – I started the day with a stationary bike ride.

That podcast made to realize that a broken foot is pretty minor compared to what other runners deal with. (https://anothermotherrunner.com/runners-dont-let-cancer-steal-your-joy/)

It was beautiful day – perfect for running or hiking. So I drove to some nearby trails. Unfortunately it was too snowy/icy for someone with a broken foot so I just walked on the roads…

Monday – It was the calm before the storm so I took advantage and went for a lunch walk.

I had to go into the office and it was raining so I walked at the nearby outdoor mall… this sign made me smile..

Tuesday – Nor’easter in March? Sure why not?… even my hair appt. got cancelled.

it snowed ALL day…we got close to a foot of snow

Wednesday – Getting unburied… The snow stopped but it was insanely windy.

I was working remotely (and the power stayed on) and then I went for a long mall walk with my BFF after work.

Thursday – As I did last Thursday, I met some running friends after work at UAlbany.

they ran… I walked (but I admit I did do a little running and it felt good!!)

Friday – The usual remote work from 8-4 followed by an evening of mah jongg. In between I packed for the weekend and bought a new iPhone.
Saturday – I took the train to NYC with my 2 friends who were running for NYC Half Marathon. Our rooms weren’t ready yet so we got a bite to eat and then headed to the expo (so they could pick up their shirts/bibs).

The highlight of the day was meeting up with some bloggers who were in NYC to run the race.

For dinner, my local friends and I took the subway to Brooklyn so they could carb load on pizza.

bagels n lox is a must when in NYC..

Sunday – Race Day as a spectator!

Sherry had to get up early to catch a bus to Brooklyn… I tried to sleep but decided to get up and RUN to catch the elites in Times Square. I was freezing so I ran back to my hotel and dressed in spectator layers.

It was still early so I took the subway to Central Park and strolled among the cherry blossoms, then took the subway back to Times Square to watch the runners and try to spot my friends.

Did I mention that it was COLD and WINDY!!!

Eventually I did spot Sherry and Stan and then Cari (None of them saw me!!)

Then I RAN along 8th to Columbus Circle to meet them when they finished.

We were all too cold to walk back to the hotel so we hopped a subway.

upper left is the winner (1:01!)

After a very long HOT shower, we relaxed and then walked to a restaurant to have an early dinner.

refueling (spectating is hard work LOL)

My original plans were to stay another day and do some things in the city but I changed my train and headed home that evening.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – ortho appt and hopefully a run
Tuesday-Friday – working in Jamaica, Queens

As time allows, some hotel biking, walks, meet-up with friends and hopefully, some runs after work

Saturday – Brunch with running friends, re-scheduled hair appt.

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Spring Racing Plans
Friday – 5 Sources of Mental Clutter

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Do you enjoy spectating races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

March 17, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Five Running Superstitions

1.You need to look the part.

In other words, you have to wear the right clothes (or brands) to be a good runner.

I obviously like to match my clothes. But I know that many runners do not.

I used to run pretty well in my Target and Walmart brand clothes.

2. You should eat the right food.

Sticking to the same pre-race food. Using the same fuel during a race. Even eating or drinking certain brands (that the professionals use).

I admit I am superstitious and always have coffee & oatmeal before a run and pizza the night before. And I fuel with a Gu every 3-5 miles.

But many runners can vary their foods and fuel with no adverse effects..

3. You must warm up or you will get injured.

For some runners, it may help to stretch or do a dynamic warm-up.

I rarely do…

4 If you’re not sore, you didn’t work hard enough.

Most likely you overworked your muscles.

5. Age matters.

Younger runners are faster? Yes, most of the time.

But not always.

I know older runners that are faster than I am and I am faster than some younger runners.

+It’s bad luck to wear the race shirt on race day.

I usually do not but many runners do and run a great race.

Happy Running! Any other superstitions you have heard of or believe in? 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 14, 2023 by Darlene

TT: My Wish List

My list is not about things that can be bought.

In fact it’s pretty personal but I’m sure that many runners can identify with some of my wishes:

- Quick healing from injuries (especially broken bones.)

- Dry roads and sidewalks in the Winter to walk/run on.

Runners+regularly+run+downtown+on+the+snowmelt+during+the+winter

- Races that offer a refund or free deferral. Those NYRR races are very expensive!!

- Endurance that lasts even when you don’t race. IOW, my last run was 10 miles… can I pick up from there rather than starting over? LOL
- Better sleep when you’re not running. (Hello Insomnia.)

Learn More About the Use of Marijuana for Sleep Apnea

- No weight gain when you are not running (and eating ice cream. Just kidding)

- I know people mean well, but please stop saying: “At least it’s winter” or “You now have more time for other things.” (Running is my preferred activity and I love running/hiking/walking outdoors in all seasons.) Winter hiking is so beautiful.

❤ frozen waterfalls

Happy Running! So what’s on your list? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

March 11, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.5.23-3.12.23: Status Quo

No Running, No Races.

Working, drinking lots of wine (kidding).

But I did volunteer at a 10k yesterday.

Electric City 10K

Last Week:

Started the week (Sunday) by brunching with my running friends (The storm postponed it from Saturday.)

Then I took my first outdoor walk since I broke my foot. I drove to UAlbany because I knew the path would be clear.

I walked about 2 miles… I had considered doing the whole 3m. loop but I decided to play it safe.

Taught remotely (Tues-Fri)
Rode my stationary bike every day (binge watching Ginny & Georgia)
Went for a few more walks (Mon, Tues, Thurs)

new shoes + Shamrock shake

I walked, they ran but nice to have company

Signed up with a friend for our 3rd year at the Lake George Hike-a-thon

Had Indian food with a former co-worker (I have lots more free time when I can’t run.)
Hosted mah jongg (postponed from last Friday evening).
Volunteered at the 10K that I had signed up to run. It was a very cold snowy morning but so many runners did show up. I worked at packet pick-up. When I was done, I drove to where my friends were running, walked a bit and then went out to brunch with everyone.

This Coming Week on the Run–

The same ~~boring~~ routine (daily walks and stationary bike rides) with an added hair appt and:

Traveling to NYC on Saturday to support my local running friends who are running the NYC Half Marathon, visiting the expo and meeting up with a few bloggers.
Cheering and spectating my first race ever on Sunday (and then returning home a day earlier than planned.)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – ~~Electric City 10k Race Recap~~ Runners’ Wish List
Friday – Five Running Superstitions

A clean house is a sign of an injured runner | Running humor ...

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Do you enjoy spectating races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

March 10, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Five+ Things I Enjoy When Not Running

Ok, you gotta have a sense of humor, right?

1. Don’t care about the weather forecast.

Snow, rain, sleet… who cares?

~~12 mile long run~~

2. Don’t have to schedule my runs around my work and other obligations.

Go out to dinner or the movies or whatever whenever? Even work travel doesn’t bother me.

~~weekly evening run~~

3. Carb loading for long runs and races is not necessary.

Chinese or Mexican food on Friday night? Yes, bring it on.

And drink as much alcohol as I ~~need~~ want…

4. Less laundry.

Let’s face it. Runners wear several outfits a day. When I travel, most of my suitcase is running clothes.

5. Saving money!!

My expensive running shoes will last longer. Save money on transportation and hotels for those out of town races. Sign up for fewer races.

+ More free time for other activities.

Reading, listening to podcasts, knitting, TV, seeing friends, volunteering at races, get on my stationary bike….

Horse: A Novel

Ginny & Georgia (TV Series 2021– ) - IMDb

All those things that took a backseat when running (and training for races) was my top priority.

Who am I kidding?

designall

Happy Running! Which things did you enjoy if you ever had an injury where you could not run? 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 7, 2023 by Darlene

TT: International Women’s Day

In celebrating tomorrow’s International Women’s Day, our topic today is to discuss those women athletes whom we admire.

I decided, although I admire many female athletes, to focus on “older” women runners:

So my first pick would be Joan Benoit Samuelson. First women’s Olympic Games marathon champion.

If you have never watched this video, you must (with tissues nearby): Joan Benoit 1984

Joan qualified for the race 2 weeks after having knee surgery!!!

I actually met her a few years ago at the Freihofer Run for Women Expo. (I even got her autograph.)

I was also lucky enough to run with her when she came to Albany, NY back in 2012 to premiere her movie.

My second pick may not be someone everyone knows. She is not a former Olympian but she has also become one of my idol – Jeannie Rice.
Her Marathon Time Is Astounding—And Not Just for 71 - WSJ
This lady is 75 years old has been running for 40 years without a single injury. She holds the world and/or national record at every distance. (She just finished the Tokyo Marathon in 3:30!!)

She has run over 150 marathons and still runs at least 11-12 miles each day (6-8 marathons a year.)

If you have time, listen to her interview on this podcast and read her advice here.

I’d love to meet her sometime when I’m in Naples, FL.

Both of these older runners have not let age hold them back. Obviously they have native ability but we know that just gets you so far. I’d love to run with either one and hopefully their zest for life and running would rub off on me.

My third pick is Harriet Thompson. She was a cancer survivor who started to run marathons when she was 76 and ran the fastest time in a marathon for a woman over 90.

91 Going on 26.2 - Women's Running

Unfortunately, she died at age 94 from a fall down a flight of steps while she was delivering birthday gifts at her retirement community.

Number 4: Julia Hawkins. Imagine starting to run at age 100!! That’s exactly what Julia did and she has set many world records in her age group.

Julia 'Hurricane' Hawkins, 103, Breaks Running Record

She is currently 106 and continues to run.

Of course I must add as number 5, my new hero, Betty Lindberg:

You can listen to her story on Ali’s podcast here.

Last but not least is Kathrine Switzer. She is most well known for her famous run in the Boston Marathon in 1967. At the time, women were barred from competing in the race, so Switzer signed up under the name K.V. Switzer and she managed to complete the entire distance, even though the race director tried to pull her off the course.