February 19, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Five Reasons to Blog

I have been writing this blog since March 2008. I started the day that I signed up for a class to learn to run a 5k. I planned to stop once I ran that race. I did not. I continued running and eventually ran half marathons and one marathon.

Many times, I have considered stopping.

I mean, what more is there to say? Does anyone care if I stop?

But here I am … still blogging!!

So that’s my topic for today: Five Reasons (as a Runner) to Blog

1.To motivate myself to run

You can’t write about running unless you run, right? I post my planned running schedule for the week and I feel guilty if I don’t do those runs (well, only a little guilty.)

planned to run and I did….

2. To track my progress toward my goals

This was more important when I first started. My goal was to run a 5k. And I did. Then it was to finish a 5k under 30 minutes and I did. Sometimes my goals are more lofty than others. Several years later, I wanted to run a half marathon and I succeeded. Of course, then I added other distances, even a MARATHON. Sometimes my goals are to PR, of course, but mostly now it is to finish each race and to remain healthy.

I ran 26.2 miles in NYC!!!

3. To review my races to help plan each year’s schedule.

I love to run races. I can’t always remember when happened at each race. So I recap the race on my blog and then I can look back at my review. It helps me plan for the race by knowing the logistics, the difficulty of the course and often, it helps me decide whether or not to run the race again.

RnR Montreal Half – NEVER AGAIN!!

4. To connect with other runners

Most of the time, it is only virtually. But the runners who read my blog are now my running friends. They cheer me on. They offer sympathy after a poor race or run. They have lifted my spirits when I have been injured. They are the ones I turn to when I need advice.

❤ my blogger friends!!

5. To inspire others to run

Of course, I want everyone to want to run. It has greatly improved my life. My wish is that by reading my blog, an older lady starts to run, continues to run and reaps the same rewards from running as I have.

not sure I have inspired these local runners but I met them because they had read my blog.

Happy Running! Do you blog? If so, why? Have you ever considered stopping? Please share.

runner-sig

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:

February 16, 2021 by Darlene

TT: My Running Pet Peeves

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Running (and Racing) Pet Peeves

I’m pretty chill (or oblivious) and I had a hard time writing this. So I am adding Racing to my List.

Runners who always complain that they are “SLOW.” Pace is an individual thing. We are ALL “slow” if we compare ourselves to a faster runner.
Runners who run alone because they don’t run at the same PACE as someone else. Running solo is a great option. BUT you can be flexible if you want to have company. Believe me, you can run a MUCH longer distance if you are not alone. Just compromise on pace or intervals for one run. It’s worth it in the end.
Runners who are always late to group runs. And if you need to warm-up, you should just arrive earlier. Of course, this is especially bothersome when it is very cold or very hot.
Runners whom you pass on a road or trail and do not respond to a wave or a “hello.” IMO, that’s just rude but maybe they are just “in the zone.”
RDs who advertise a race as being flat and fast. We know that means it has hills. Just be honest and post an elevation chart.
Races that start late.
Races that do not have adequate parking.
Races without enough water stops or enough water/volunteers at those stops.
Races where the course is not adequately marked. The course should have course marshals at all the turns.
Large races with 10 year Age Group awards rather than 5.
Races that give unisex shirts as swag. In fact, I would rather have the option not to get a shirt and pay less. Even better, a different kind of swag. We all have enough shirts.
Expensive races without a deferral option. Injuries and family emergencies happen.
Races without day of race packet pick-up. If someone travels to a race, it is often impossible to pick up their bib the day before.
Long races without bag check. I always need to be able to put on warmer or cooler clothes after a race. Often my hotel or car is not nearby.

Wow, I guess I had more pet peeves that I thought lol

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

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.

Happy Running! What are some of running or racing pet peeves? Do agree with any of mine? Please share.

February 12, 2021 by Darlene

Fit Friday Five: In-Person Races (during the Pandemic)

I am in Florida right now and preparing for my third in-person race of the Pandemic.

So that’s my FFF topic for today.

Here are 5 Things to Consider if You are

1.Does the Race follow the CDC Guidelines?

They should be posted on the race website and in addition to following federal rules, you have to feel comfortable with the restrictions.

Here’s an example from the 5k that I ran in NYC:

You may not attend the event if you have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 or tested positive in the fourteen (14) days prior to the event.

You must wear a face covering throughout this event other than when running.

When running, you may remove the covering only when you can maintain social distance and the covering must remain around your head in some fashion so it can easily be reapplied. The covering must be worn for the first 500 and last 500 feet of the race (it should be on when you reach the mile 3 marker.)

No guests are allowed at the race site

Upon entry to the race site, a medical professional will take and record your temperature.

To avoid crowding, you must show up on time for your designated wave and leave immediately after completing your race.

Running in a group of two or more is not permitted.

If you test positive for COVID-19 within the fourteen days following the event, you must email theteam@nycruns.com so that we may notify staff and participants as necessary.

And I did feel safe before, during and after that race.

2.Do you have a gaiter or mask that you can run in?

Most races now are requiring that you wear a mask when you start and finish the race and during the race, if you are closer than 6 feet to another runner. I have worn a gaiter both times that I ran a race because it was cold and it was easier to pull up and down when wearing a beanie.

That being said, if it were warm, I would probably opt for a mask.

3.How will you hydrate?

Many races are eliminating water stations or asking that you bring your own bottle to be filled instead of providing cups touched by the volunteers.

I didn’t worry about it during my frigid 5k but during a longer race, I would need water. I hate to carry a water bottle or wear a hydration vest. But those are both good options if they work for you.

During my half marathon, I just carried a folded paper cup in my pocket and at all the water stations, I had it filled. The cup was only touched by me and I re-used it. Many racers commented that it was “pure genius.” I would suggest having 2 just in case, one rips or leaks.

4. Why are you running this race?

Of course, during these scary times, you don’t HAVE to race. So you need to figure out your WHY.

Do you race because you need that motivation or do you crave competition or do you enjoy the social interaction? Maybe maybe emotionally or mentally, it will just make you feel GOOD.

Once you make that decision, you can’t worry about the what ifs.

Carpe Diem.

Enjoy that race.

5.Forget about time or PR goals. Can you do that for a race?

I am as competitive as the next person. At times, even more.

But I did not wear a watch for either of these races. It really helped me.

With staggered starts, mask wearing, avoiding other runners, you don’t need to worry about a PR or age group award.

Just run.

Happy Running! Have you run any in-person races? Do you plan to? Any advice to add? Please share.

runner-sig

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:

February 9, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Five Words to Describe Myself

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Five Words to Describe Yourself

This might be the hardest post ever to write. It is hard to be objective about oneself. Do I pick good traits? Or maybe those where I need to improve?

Well, here are the first five words that came to mind:

1.Loyal

I think that this is the most important quality to have to be a good friend. I hope that all my friends think that I am. Thanks to social networking, I have remained in contact with close friends from high school, college, and all of my jobs, in addition to, those whom I see frequently in-person.

some of the friends that I met playing tennis

2.Disciplined

I call it Disciplined, others may call it ‘stubborn” or “crazy.” I usually run or walk outside pretty much no matter what. In the cold, when I don’t feel well or may be injured and when conditions are not optimal, I “Just Do It.” I have to say that I am “Disciplined” about fitness-activities that I enjoy (walking, running, hiking, tennis,) not about all other activities (such as yoga, strength training, biking, etc.)

even in the cold and with a calf injury back in March 2019.

3.Active

The hardest part about the Pandemic for me was sitting still and being stuck indoors. Pacing in my house is not an ideal way for me to get in steps. Rest Days for me are days when I can bike, walk or hike instead of run.

a day off = a drive to VT to hike alone

4.Introverted

As a child, I was very shy. I hated to speak in front of class. I still do. I became a teacher and learned to become somewhat comfortable in front of students. I still dreaded those observations. Still do. Yes, I am social and have lots of friends but prefer to interact in a small group. You will never see me recording myself and posting the video for all to see. Never.

Westchester (October 2019) This is probably why I am so comfortable travelling and hiking by myself

5.Spontaneous

I am not sure if this quality is positive or negative. Positive – I don’t miss out on things by over thinking and hesitating. I just sign up or just go. Negative – somethings that I have done were not good choices or planned out well.

A NYC train trip (and hotel stay) in order to run a 5k during the Pandemic?

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

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.

Happy Running! What are some words that you would use to describe YOURSELF? If you know me, do you agree or disagree with any of the words that I have chosen? Please share.

February 7, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 2.1.21-.2.7.21: Hello February!

New Month. And lots to be grateful for.

I get my 2nd COVID vaccine this coming week.

I have a vacation in a warmer climate planned for this month.

I will be running an in-person race.

My family and friends are all healthy.

The days are getting longer.

Spring starts next month.

Last Week –

Monday – The snowstorm was predicted to start in the afternoon. So boy was I surprised to wait up to snow on the ground already and it was snowing. #nevermissamonday! What to do? I knew things would be getting worse before they got better so I waited for the snow plow/salt truck to go by and then went for a run. The worst part was going down my driveway and no shoulder on the side of the main road.

it was one of my more enjoyable runs…Lady Gaga…snowflakes on my nose & eyelashes.. and no pressure to run fast or not walk

By lunchtime, there seemed to be a lull in the snow so I drove to the local park hoping the hit the trails. Well, I was too lazy to put on my yaks and grab my poles and getting to the trails was too icy so I just took a walk around the park.

not tempted in the least bit to work out on that equipment

After work, I was better prepared and go in a decent hike. Nope…snowing too hard. Hunkered down at home and read a book (The Vanishing Half = good one!).

Tuesday – Ok, I woke up to too much snow for a morning anything outdoors.

Glad I didn’t have to shovel

It continued to snow all morning so my only option was the bike at lunch. (George to the rescue.) I set up a TV so I could use it for the Peleton app instead of my ipad or iphone.

30 minutes of pedaling to Prince

Then I shoveled out my hot tub (priorities) and checked out the roads in the ‘hood.

I had boots on or I would have run…the roads were pretty clear

After work, I was determined to get outside again. Not to run but for a long walk with friends.

Wednesday – No more snow but still a cold day with a lot more wind. I drove into town for a run at lunch. On my way, I ate three homemade cookies. I’m telling you this because I had more energy than normal…

New York State of mind today (hat & Jacket). Matty & I seem to have the same music tastes. So much energy that I actually did FIVE hill repeats (I never do drills!!)

I also met my BFF for a long walk before dinner.

Thursday – A beautiful morning. There was even sun but not much time to do much out there before work.

just outside my front door

I did go for another lunch run in town (but on different streets) and again with Matty (on Peleton).

nicest weather we’ve had in a long time. Just needed a windbreaker! Woo Hoo!

And then back to the outside mall after work for a long walk with friends.

Friday – Rest day. A Bike ride at lunch. An easy decision since the weather was supposed to be nasty (but of course then it wasn’t).

a fun 45 minute break from the computer

And a trail walk at Fiver Rivers after work.

I found a path where a lot of skiers and snowshoers had packed up the snow so I was able to walk it wit just hiking boots

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Finally temps near 30. (For us it is a winter heat wave). I met Sherry for 10 miles at The Crossings. I ran 3 solo and then 7 with her and my friend Stan (who showed up by surprise.) It was cold but sunny and so much less windy and cold than the previous Saturday. Last long run before my race!!

Stan is a much faster runner and he definitely pushed us. After 7 with them, I walked and left them to run another mile (at his pace.)

Sunday – Started the day on George. Substituted Peleton for Netflix

binge watched this and had to watch episode 10 of Season 1. Anyone watch this or have read the book?

Lots of snow on the trails but difficult to decide where to hike without snowshoes or X-country skis. Sherry lent me her micro-spikes and I was excited to try them out. I was afraid that the snow would not stop and I would have to postpone my hike. But around 2:30 pm, it did and I decided to explore Plotterkill Preserve.

The snow was packed so I didn’t need my spikes until I got to the bridge (the stairs were pure ice).. It was such a nice hike and it started snowing near the end. Perfect. Next time, I’ll have to go earlier so I could do all the trails. (and there was a waterfall (top right)

This Coming Week –

Monday – run, walk, ZOOM book club (The Vanishing Half)
Tuesday – run, COVID vaccine #2, walk with friends
Wednesday – rest day, bike, walk, pack
Thursday – flt to Fort Lauderdale, drive to N. Boca, dinner in Deerfield Beach with friends
Friday – run (at sunrise), gardens and bird sanctuaries with a friend
Saturday – rest day, sunrise walk, brunch with a friend, drive to FL, boat tour to lighthouse, race expo
Sunday – Race Day – Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon, explore Fort Lauderdale, boat ride on the New River

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Doing any virtual races? Are you venturing outdoors in the sub zero temps? Any knitters out there? How about succulents? Please share.

February 5, 2021 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for February 2021

It’s that time of the month…

Starbucks Coffee City Mug Collection- Florida, 16 Oz Cup

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

I live in upstate NY so it’s HOT coffee in the morning before work and red wine in front of the fireplace at night.

1. Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I got my first COVID-19 vaccine and am anxiously waiting for the second one. It’s the first step but we still have along way to go. And the distribution here was very chaotic. Hope it is more organized where you live.

I got the COVID-19 vaccine! Can I toss my mask? | MIT Medical

2.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I can’t wait to skip town. My last hotel stay was Dec 6 (in NYC) and my last vacation stay was in NH in October. (I know I am lucky. Most people have been at home since March 2020 and have zero future plans).

We haven’t had a really bad winter but still I am looking forward to feeling the sand beneath my toes. And SUNSHINE!!! (I need some Vitamin D!)

back in Feb. 2019

I am not weather stalking (well, maybe a little). It may not be warm but I know that it will be warmer than it is in NY and there will be NO ice or snow.

3.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that the reason I’m heading for a warm weather vacation is to run a half marathon. No surprise. I had a really hard time making the decision to take this vacation because of the Pandemic.

2021 Publix Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon, Half Marathon, Kids Race - SUNDAY - Fort Lauderdale, FL 2021 | ACTIVE

Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon – February 14, 2021

Not because I was afraid of catching COVID (maybe a little) but because I wasn’t sure if I would have fun. I knew it would not be the same as in previous years. I was planning on staying in two hotels instead of with my friends. I would see them but for the most part, I would be on my own.

Another friend from college, Patty, will be in Delray/Boca too.

In the end, I felt that seeing the sunrise on the ocean each morning, going to the beach, visiting the bird sanctuaries and gardens, eating outdoors and completing a half marathon were reasons enough to take the trip. Plus I would be using free points for my hotel, car, and credit for the flight (and not spending much money.)

4.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that that I will still be running this half marathon for fun. I did complete all my long runs to train for this race but my competitive mojo has deserted me. In a good way, I think.

I mean it’s been a year since I have worn my Garmin (Hope it still works.)

Feb 15, 2020

5.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I am still years later deathly afraid of running on ice or snow. I don’t want a repeat of the broken ankle and be out of running for five months. Of course this limits where I can run in the winter. But more importantly, it rules out any hiking. So I bit the bullet, pulled out my yak trax and hiking poles and have ventured out on the trails.

I go alone and walk VERY slowly but better than missing out on nature in the winter.

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.

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Do you do any solo winter hiking? Any vacations or any races planned for this winter? Do you know when you will get your vaccines? Please share.

February 2, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Best Running Views From Around the World

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Best Running Views From Around the World

Gee, I wish I had traveled more.

Some of the other bloggers will probably have more interesting views but here are my favorites:

In the US:

New York City

Upstate NY

Florida

Palm Springs, CA

Denver

Las Vegas

Outside the US:

Montreal

Paris

Bermuda

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

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.

Happy Running! What/where are some of your favorite running views? Please share.

January 31, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.25.21-1.31.21: Wrapping Up the First Month of 2021

Well, January has ended. We have a new President. Many people have gotten their first COVID vaccine. My hubby has even received his 2nd dose (No reaction!!)

My running has gotten off to a decent start. I’m on my way (barring injury) to 1000 miles for the year.

Despite the cold, snow and ice, I’ve continued hiking. I have already visited FOUR new trails. To quote Wendy “Nature is my anti-depressant.”

Last Week –

Monday – Another cold morning but with possible snow on the way tomorrow, I knew I needed to get in a run at lunch. The sun was a welcome surprise, the wind not so much. I decided to repeat the route from last week – drive to park n ride, run to the HS track, run around the track and then run back to my car.

Thanks to Cari for the recommendation – my favorite Peleton run yet.

And after work, I checked out a local trail before it got dark. A perfect way to end the day.

HollyHock Hollow Sanctuary. If you look closely you can see the mon in the pic on the right

Also I got my swag for Saturday’s Virtual 15K. I wish I was running the real race but even without the pandemic, none are scheduled anymore in NY.

a hoodie, chocolate and more…

Tuesday – A busy work day but I did get in a 45 min bike ride during lunch.

it started to snow just as I was finishing up

After work, I had a needed hair appt (2 weeks later than usual.) And I drove to it in a snowstorm (The things we women do…)

Wednesday – I woke up to snow (about 5-6 inches.)

first world problems – have to shovel out the hot tub

so I waited until lunch to go out for a run. I wore my trail shoes and navigated slowly the streets in my neighborhood. No problem (except for my driveway which wasn’t plowed yet.)

half of the run was done to Wicked music 🙂

After work, I met my friend for our usual outside walk.

Thursday – Today I took the day off. (Just needing to use up some vacation time). I was able to do grocery shopping, get my nails done and go for a morning run. I ran in the streets of town since obviously the trails were still snow-covered.

the sun may have been shining but the wind made it feel sooo cold

and then an afternoon hike. You know that I am obsessed with water falls so I chose Barbersville Falls. There was quite a few inches of snow on the Waterfalls trail. Underneath the snow was ice. Going down wasn’t as scary as trying to go back up (Next time, do not do this without spikes!!) Eek! Then I hiked the Ridge Trail. Much longer loop as not as scary.

The waterfalls were beautiful and the trails so peaceful… but slippery

I ended the day with a walk with friends.

Friday – Rest day from running. I almost considered going for a walk.

Nahh. I’m not that crazy. Maybe one in a mall after work.

Instead I took a 45 minute bike ride at lunch.

30 min of Backstreet Boys but only had time for 15 min of Cher. Enjoyed both.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. I had planned to do my virtual Hot Chocolate 15k with Sherry and virtually with Deirdre and Kim. But first, 2.7 miles (because I never got in 12 miles last Saturday.) It was extremely cold again but not as windy as last time. And there was sun!! I started at 10 am and Sherry met me at 10:30. We had to return to the Crossings due to our recent snowfall and ran around the nearby neighborhoods. It was sub zero with the wind chill but not as bad as I thought and it was nice to have company.

Virtual 15k done! (Deidre was in Fla.)

I guess my painful feet are ready for another half marathon.

After my hot chocolate in the hot tub, I spent some time on my knitting. Just too cold to venture outside again.

I got tired of the socks so started a cowl. It is actually a darker purple.

Sunday – Another COLD day. I started with a 40 min. ride on George.

actually did the warm up after the ride lol

And then off to the trails in search of peace and quiet and a waterfall. Sanders Preserve surprisingly was one of my favorite trails so far. Miles of trails on packed snow, not slippery at all and so peaceful. There was a waterfall but I couldn’t figure out how to get down to it. I am going back!

without any wind, it felt so much better than yesterday – a beautiful day on the trails

I’m amazed at how much my succulents are loving winter. This is the first winter of my obsession. I love plants but once I bought one succulent, I got addicted (and none have died 🙂 )

check out all the icicles outside the window!

This Coming Week –

Monday – run, walk
Tuesday – rest day, bike, walk with friends
Wednesday – run, walk with BFF
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – LONG RUN, walk
Sunday – rest day, bike, walk/hike

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Doing any virtual races? Are you venturing outdoors in the sub zero temps? Any knitters out there? How about succulents? Please share.

January 29, 2021 by Darlene

Five Runfessions for January 2021

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

and the first one for 2021!!

1. I runfess…

I jumped on the FREE two month trial of Peleton. I have done some of the runs and the cycling classes.

an Elvis ride

Everyone seems to LOVE it.

Maybe I expected too much. I find it hard to search for classes. I want to be able to search by the type of music! I also want to listen to the music and not have it overshadowed by the instructor’s voice. I know they are trying to motivate you but …. And I also find the running classes too short. Most are 20 or 30 minutes (a few are 45 min.) I usually run 3 miles. So I have to start running early and then switch or run after to get my miles done. Lastly, I wish that I could download the class onto my phone so I could run outside without using up all my data and my battery life. (I do not have unlimited.) I’m pretty sure it’s my problem because my phone connects to my Apple watch which I use for distance and recording my steps (for Virgin Pulse $$). I think I just have to put both on airplane mode (haven’t had the time to experiment.)

Have you signed up for Peleton? Do you love it? Or do you have any complaints about it?

2. I runfess…

I am stubbornly continuing to run 10 miles every weekend. I admit. It is hard for me to run that many miles alone. With the weather and COVID-19, the size of my running crew has shrunk. I think this winter is going to be challenging.

not fun!!

Do you do your long runs solo or do you prefer to have company?

3.I runfess…

I still haven’t decided on my next half marathon. I reserved my hotel rooms, booked my flights, rented a car (and got time off from work) just in case I run this one:

Feb. 14, 2021

I am DEFERRING this Melbourne race until 2022:

Feb. 7, 2021

The Fort Lauderdale race would work out perfectly timing-wise. I have Lincoln’s birthday and Presidents’ Day off (Friday & Monday). I also have four friends who winter in Delray Beach (about 20 min away.)

But the virus and wearing masks…..

Anyone else running or have run any in-person races in Florida?

4. I runfess…

I had deferred last year’s April (re-scheduled to August) half marathon. Fortunately, our local racing organization (ARE) will be holding this race and a few others. We have until Feb. 1 to decide whether to run it in 2021 or defer again to a future year.

April 17, 2021

I so want to race that I signed up for this year. Reluctantly. It’s not on the original course but on the course that I ran on last November. (It will go back to the original course in 2022.)

2019 – downhill

2020 – hilly

Have you signed up for any in-person races yet? Do you plan to?

5.I runfess…

I signed up for three virtual races – a free 5k on January 1.

NYRR Virtual Resolution Run 5K

and a 15k on January 30.

Virtual Houston 15k

I didn’t plan to race either one but I will have company for both.

New Year’s Day virtual friends

One of my running friends who is in Florida will run the 15k with me virtually tomorrow as well Kim (and maybe some other bloggers.)

And then this one by March 15k:

a 5k – you get this medal and a gaiter. Who could resist this memory of 2021?? What to join me (virtually)??

Do you enjoy running virtual races with virtual running friends or do you run them alone?

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.

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

January 26, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Six Favorites From 2020

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Six Favorites from 2020

2020 was an interesting year, filled up ups and downs. Maybe more downs than ups but still it’s a great idea to focus on the positives.

So here are my Six Fitness-Related Favorites:

1.Favorite In-Person Race – ZOOMA Bermuda

I did run a few others and I almost picked the Polar Cap Run (dedicated to my friend who died in 2020) because I already gave this race, my BEST OF Award. But seriously, a race with ocean views, great swag and sharing it with some awesome people? No Brainer.

we may have been smiling because we didn’t know that the course was so hilly!!

post race antics 🙂

2.Favorite Virtual Race – Freihofer’s Run for Women

I have run this race for the past 13 years and it is my favorite race of the year. Unfortunately in 2020, it went virtual but I was lucky enough to have company (even though we ran it in four different locations.)

5k with Cari, Kim and Deb (in our purple outfits)

3.Favorite Running Route – Zim Smith Bike Path

It’s flat, scenic, long enough even for Marathon training and most importantly, we park at Leah’s Cakery so we can enjoy a delicious brunch post-run.

4.Favorite New Running Gear – Knock-Off Thera Gun

I think my hubby may use more than me, but it helped immensely when I strained my SI joint and with any other aches and pains, as well. And it wasn’t expensive. Check them out on Amazon.

addsfit MAX massage gun

5.Favorite Hike – Hadley Mountain

It was a challenging hike but worth it for the views of the Fall foliage. And it was my first Fire Tower hike. I was hooked and hope to climb more towers in 2021.