October 13, 2020 by Darlene

Virtual Smuttynose Half Marathon Race Recap

The Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon & 5k

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever. As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

So I signed up for the Smuttynose Half Marathon (long ago before the Pandemic) for several reasons:

My running friends decided to make this part of a group vacation in NH.
It was a flat course.
It was scenic. Ocean views.
There was great post race food. Beer and Lobster Rolls.
Nice swag.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. For 2020, I had the ambitious goal of running 12 Half Marathons – one each month.

During my first two 2020 Half Marathons in January and February, I experienced a lot of foot pain. I ran them but truthfully, it was not fun at the time (except for the fact that I was in NYC and then Bermuda.)

: ZOOMA Bermuda Half

And then the March NYC Half Marathon was cancelled due to the pandemic so I ran that for fun with two friends.

The pandemic continued. Races were being postponed until Fall one by one. I ran the April Helderberg to Hudson and May Steel Rail Half Marathons “virtually” and by myself. Again no fun!!

: 2020 – Virtual H2H HM

: 2020 Virtual Steel Rail HM

No more half marathons during June, July, August and September. (I deferred my August half to 2021 and got refunds for both September half marathons when they went virtual.)

Eventually this half marathon as expected went virtual also but with NO refund or deferral option.

So I guess I was running one more virtual half marathon….

The difference in the training cycle for this race was that I ran at least TEN miles every weekend. For all four months. Sometimes I even ran 11, 12 or 13 miles (until the last two weekends before the race when recovering from an inflamed SI joint. I only ran 8 and 9 miles)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

The group decided since we had already rented a house that we would go anyway.

We left in the rain on Friday and took the scenic route to NH stopping in MA for a delicious lunch.

Once we arrived at our AirBnB in Hampton Beach, the rain had stopped. After we got settled in (and the house was amazing), we drove our planned route and staked out the turn around (mile 6.75) and water stop locations (mile 2.75 and mile 9).

Then after sitting in a car all day, we decided on a dusk walk on the beach (with added shenanigans) before ordering in pizza for dinner. (The pizza was a little too greasy for my tastes and too many sweets were consumed but hey it wasn’t a serious carb load meal in my book).

The advantage of this race was that we could pick the day, the start time and the course.

Some of the group did not plan to run the 13.1 miles but walk it. I was fortunate to have some company for the virtual 13.1 miles.

My plan was to run on the other runners’ plan. It would be intervals. It would be slow but we would enjoy it. My first enjoyable half marathon of 2020!!

So I planned my outfit (sorry no #flatme) and tried to get a decent night’s sleep.

Race Day:

Although the original race was scheduled for Sunday, we decided to run it on Saturday instead.

I ate my usual breakfast – oatmeal and coffee. Due to the dinner the night before, my stomach immediately felt off (and continued that way until after dinner…ugh)

We drove to the race start for a modified version of the real course (and we had driven the day before). It was basically the same but without all the twists and turns. We would just run straight along the water longer. This way, hopefully, no one would get lost and we would not lose anyone who was walking. And it would be easier for Chris (our non-running “sherpa” to follow, cheer us on and stop at the planned stops)

Not too much exciting stats to report. I did not wear a watch. I depended on the others to tell me when to turn around and when to run and when to walk.

Anyway, here’s how it went:

Miles 1-3:

pre-race pic

The two who were walking started first. They were about a mile ahead of us runners. I didn’t know at the time but they were walking at a pace fast enough to BEAT the runners! And they were focused on that the whole race.

and we were off..

The runners had decided to do 45:30 intervals the whole way. Of course, there would be as many photos stops as needed. The goal was to finish and have fun.

yes, I was the one taking the pics

The course couldn’t have been more scenic. We ran along the boardwalk or sidewalks for the most part. The ocean was in view the whole way.

At every beach, there were open bathrooms if needed.

Miles 3- 6.75:

The weather was absolutely perfect for a race (sunny and 50’s) Too bad it wasn’t a real one. But it was so relaxing not to worry about finish time and pace.

totally enjoying myself but this was early on. lol

At our first water stop, we shed our layers.

At one point, we lost the boardwalk and had to run along the road. It seemed so short in our drive the day before but of course, longer today.

It was mostly flat except for one hill (as seen in the pic above).

The mansions along the water were breathtaking.

The route was so scenic that I took umpteen pics (I won’t post them all, I promise). But when you walk every 45 seconds, it’s easy to take pics.

Miles 6.75-13.1

It may have seemed like forever but finally we arrived at our second water stop and we turned around. I should mention that I thought we would catch the walkers. But who knew they would be walking at a 15:xx pace because they were intent on beating us.

The way back was the same as the way there. The same views. Warmer temps but a nice breeze.

I was secretly glad that this wasn’t a real race because I felt nauseous the whole time. I felt worse when we were walking so on the way back, I ran ahead often.

Then I would wait until the others caught up.

There was one more water stop before we hit the finish line (of toilet paper).

I wasn’t sure when that was since I wasn’t wearing a watch so I stopped and waited for someone to catch up.

Eventually, we stopped at 13.1 miles!!!

No finish line???

Nope, we misjudged the distance (in the car) so we walked until we saw the walkers (who had joyously beat us). The we each sprinted across the “finish.”

So fun. I’ve never had that much fun in a race.

Immediately we took off our shoes and ran into the ocean.

Yikes. COLD!!!!

Following the our ocean dip, we headed to refuel at a nearby restaurant. Lobster Rolls & Beer or whatever. We thought we should send our lunch bill to the Race Director. LOL

Additional Race Reflections:

The Good:

The weather
Flexible start time
Flat course
Scenic (ocean view)
Not crowded with other runners
No clock, no pressure.
Running with friends
Open real bathrooms
Our own support vehicle
Swag (when they ship it to me)

we bought our own matching race shirts

The Bad:

No Mile Markers
No crowd support
No clock at the finish line
No Deferral or Refund Option for this race
Lower cost for the virtual option than the real race BUT the same swag ($39 vs $90)
Not a real race hence no post-race refreshments (beer and lobster rolls) or entertainment or race photos, etc.
Generic Swag rather than original awesome swag

does not say Smuttynose nor NH nor half marathon, etc

The Ugly:

Nothing really

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. But the real thing would have been a lot more exciting, I’m sure.

Next Up:

On a whim, I signed up for this Pandemic local Half Marathon:

very hilly, staggered starts, must carry your own water…why did I sign up??

Hopefully in February I will run this one in Florida.

Final Thoughts:

2020 has been a crazy year. Five virtual half marathons. Not how I planned it. Nor would I ever imagine ditching my Garmin and not thinking about my finish time during a half marathon. I did not record my time for any of these “races.” Good or bad? I haven’t decided. Time will tell.

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

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Have you been training for a big race? Are you running it as a virtual race? Have you done any Virtual Races? If so, how did they go? Please share.

October 11, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.1.20-10.11.20: RnR (Race-Cation and Recovery)

I actually posted about Friday-Sunday before I left for vacation so it was guesstimate on what would happen and I was pretty accurate. lol. But I decided to start this Run Down that Friday to give you the real story.

My vacation was amazing. I knew I enjoyed the company of my running friends but staying in the same house is a different story. This was our 4th race-cation together but usually there is a real race and we stay in a hotel. So much more relaxed without a “real” race and we got along fantastically. But “What Happens in NH, stays in NH” so I can’t give you all the details but there was a lot of laughter and we social distanced to the best of our ability…

Monday I was still in NH and Tuesday, I took the day off to recuperate from my vacation and go hiking with a good friend.

So only a Three Day Work Week! Woo Hoo!!

Wednesday, however, we had a HUGE storm and wound up losing our power… I had to actually to go work in my office to use the Internet.

Just a reminder that there’s still plenty of time to sign up if you want to join me on the Run for Ruth challenge – Click here.

I have another Virtual Half Marathon (ZOOMA Amelia Island) in a few weeks and a sorta real local one on Nov. 15. So I need to keep up that running.

The Week Before –

Friday – Travel Day and a rainy one. We took several cars and decided on a scenic route through Mass. The foliage was gorgeous in spite of the clouds. We stopped for lunch in the cutest place ever with the best food (a restored farm from 1700’s)

Hilltop Cafe in Wilton, MA

We arrived at our AirBnB in Hampton Beach, NH late afternoon. We were pleasantly surprised at how beautiful it was. The internet pix did not do it justice. After getting settled in, we drove our race route for the next day to determine where our turn around and water stops would be and then we went out for a dusk walk on the beach.

of course, we had to do a jumping pic…and yes there was drinking and eating to be done

We ordered in pizza for dinner to carb load for our race the next day and went to bed earlyish.

Saturday – Race Day. Not exactly since there was NO race and the original one was scheduled for Sunday. But the weather was perfect so we decided to get our Virtual 13.1 done.

I got up early and went to the beach to catch the sunrise and go for a pre-race walk with Jan.

even more impressive than the pix.

I had mapped out our own race route. 6.5 miles along the ocean and then turn around and re-trace the same route. We would start at the official start which was about 2 miles from our house. Two from group had decided to walk the course so they left first and then the rest of the group (4) started our “race.” One runner was not going to run but be our sherpa. We had pre-decided stops for her to drive to so we could get water and snacks. All of the beach bathrooms were open. The runners stayed together the whole race. Best finish line (toilet paper) ever.

and that water was COLD!!! Ice bath for the feet.

After our race, we were starved so we quickly refueled with lunch at an outdoor restaurant with an ocean view (I had a lobster roll!!) We spent the rest of the day relaxing, recovering. We did go out to dinner to celebrate at the Smuttynose Brewery (the sponsor of the “real” race) before returning home for a birthday celebration (3 b-days – a 50, 61 and 70). In addition to the race, the BIG birthdays were the actual reason for the weekend away.

Sunday – Recovery morning again started with sunrise viewing on the beach followed by a walk with Jan and Chris.

yes, that’s a porno photo shoot in the top pic

Today we decided to road trip to Maine. We walked around Ogunquit and along the Marginal Way before we had lunch (outdoor ocean view) there.

since we had not gotten race shirts, we bought matching Hampton Beach shirts

Next we drove to Wells to do a scenic hike.

at Wells Reserve at Laudholm

Finally we ended the day in York to see the Nubble Lighthouse and have ice cream.

no, not too cold for ice cream!

We opted for dinner at home instead of going to a restaurant. Lots of snacks and alcohol left to consume.

Last Week –

Monday – Last day of our vacation. Got up early with Deb and Jan to see the sunrise but it was clouded over. We came home, I had breakfast and then went for a run with Heidi.

so sad to leave my ocean views!!

We packed up our stuff and headed home. We all met up on the way for lunch in Mass (golf course outdoor restaurant with scenic views of the mountains.) Then Deidre and I ended the day with a trip to a knitting store and ice cream shop.

perfect end to a perfect trip

Tuesday – I took the day off from work in case I was tired. But really, I just wanted to go hiking if the weather cooperated. And it did. My friend chose a hike in the Catskill Mountains. She neglected to tell me she chose a “challenging one.” And it really was. I survived (but broke both of my NEW hiking poles. lol). The views made it worth it. It’s always a win-win when you emerge unhurt and want to do another.

hiking to top of Blackhead Mountain – 1,745 ft elevation gain

It took ALL day and when I got home, I forgot that it was Tuesday and I was supposed to volunteer in the STEM group walking program . Oops.

Wednesday – Back at work and another beautiful fall day. Luckily I decided to sneak out at lunch for a run.

yes, these legs were weary but I’m glad I dragged them through the miles…

As soon as I finished work, a surprise storm arrived and it was like Kansas in the Wizard of Oz. We and everyone else had no power so I decided to explore a new local nature preserve.

a nice 1 mile loop that recently opened.

Still no power so I met my BFF for a walk around an outdoor mall.

Thursday – I woke up to no power. I took a walk to survey the damage in the neighborhood.

our house was spared. my neighbors were not as lucky.

We do have a generator but that does not give us TV or Internet. That meant I had to go into my office to work. Not too exciting. But after work, I headed off to Tawasentha Park for our running group’s weekly trail walk. Running out of daylight so this may be our last or next to last one.

Yes, it was chilly out. I didn’t dress for it so instead of our usual post walk ice cream, we headed to Panera’s for HOT soup.

And the power finally returned!!

Friday – Started the day with a short chilly but sunny run. I was back to working from home.

I remembered that I had not done my virtual 5k this week

Then the power went off AGAIN.

So I went for a walk.

still some interesting flowers in bloom

Luckily the hubby came home and hooked up the generator. But we lost power for about 1 1/2 hours.

Normally I’d be taking a LONG walk and having snacks with my former co-workers after work but some friends organized a ZOOM memorial for our friend who died recently from cancer. So it was a rushed walk so I get home.

Saturday – Long Run Day. Yes, our big race was over but I had signed up for a virtual half and then a real one. So I had to keep up my miles. We met on the rail trail. I decided to run 4 miles solo and then run more miles with the others. I stopped briefly to chat with Barbara and the the others took off walking. I had to practically sprint for 2 miles to catch up to them. I ran 3 miles and then ran back (with some stops along the way.) It was my my first long run without intervals and running alone since May. Quite an adjustment!!

a little chilly at first but it warmed up nicely

It wouldn’t be a long run unless we gathered for brunch after. My hubby had been planning our last boating outing but the forecast was for wind and rain up North so he went to play tennis and I did stuff around the house (catching up from being away last weekend)

And I got to see Cari for a few minutes. She stopped by that evening on her way to Utica.

windy hair lol but so glad to connect after 8 months

Sunday – Boating Sunday may now turn into Hiking Sunday. An early morning drive up to the Adirondacks. This time instead of climbing a mountain, we hiked down to some ponds (Cascade and Stephens). The scenery was awesome. Fall is the best time of year for hiking.

almost 10 miles of hiking but mostly flat and I crossed a stream by walking across a log (pretty scary for me)

This Coming Week –

Monday – Holiday – DAY OFF – hike or run or both
Tuesday – rest day, STEM walk
Wednesday – run, trail walk
Thursday – run, dinner out for stepson’s B-Day
Friday – rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – Virtual ZOOMA Amelia Island Half Marathon
Sunday – rest day, hiking

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? Any “real” races yet? How are you embracing Fall? Any experiences with power outages? Please share.

October 9, 2020 by Darlene

Ouch! My Achy SI Joint

*Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, If you are experiencing similar problems, please consult with a doctor.

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

So, my foot stopped hurting and I was running 10-13 miles every weekend pain-free.

Time for a new injury…not funny!

I guess my topic this week is: SI Joint Inflammation or Dysfunction

1. What is the SI Joint?

Its full name is the sacroiliac joint.
There are two of them in your lower back, and they sit on each side of your spine.
Their main job is to carry the weight of your upper body when you stand or walk and shift that load to your legs.

See the source image

2. How do you know your have it?

Dull or sharp pain on one side of your lower back or buttocks
Increased pain when standing up from a sitting position
Hurts to bend over
More painful in the morning

3. What causes it?

You take uneven strides when you walk or run
Injury from a fall
Too much sitting
Arthritis
Worn cartilage
Pregnancy

Except for the last one, I could justify this injury for all of the above. I have weakness in the left leg due to hardware in my ankle and recent neuroma pain. Since March for my job, I sit ALL DAY! I fell recently on a trail when running and who knows, I’m OLD so it could be arthritis and/or worn cartilage.

4. How do you treat it?

Rest
Ice
Heat
Naproxen or ibuprofen
Massage or trigger point therapy
Visit a chiropractor for re-alignment
PT exercises

so lucky to have this outside on my deck

I immediately saw my chiropractor in addition to all of the above.

trail walk instead of a run

I walked a lot since it didn’t hurt to do so. I took time off from running and started back slowly.

Amazon.com: Muscle Massage Gun Deep Tissue for Athletes, Pokehome Deep Tissue Massage Gun Percussion Muscle Massager Handheld Deep Tissue Massage Gun, 11 Speed High Intensity Vibration, 6 Heads Included: Health & Personal

my new BRF (that I bought for my hubby’s tennis elbow – which he never used lol)

5. What can you do to avoid it?

See your chiropractor regularly
Warm up and cool down before and after your runs
Use a foam roller or Theragun after exercise
Avoid sitting for long periods of time

2 weeks later – no pain

I was lucky that my SI pain did not last long. I have heard that it can last from weeks to months (and it can re-appear). Little by little I was able to bend with less pain. I think seeing my chiro right away helped and by moving more and sitting less. But who knows?

Happy Running! Have you ever suffered by SI joint pain or back pain? If so, what did you do to get rid of the pain? Please share.

October 6, 2020 by Darlene

My Favorite Blog Posts

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: Brag Time: Share some of your most popular running related blog posts!

Not sure if any would be considered “popular” since I do not have a huge following but here are my “favorites”:

The Older Adult Onset Runner – how/why I became a runner
Yes, You Will Get Slower – advice for the older runner re: pace
My Favorite Hometown Race – reasons why I run the Freihofer Run for Women every year
TCS NYC Marathon Recap – a long summary of my one and only marathon experience
Naples Half Marathon Report – a recap of my first half marathon
My Favorite Instagram Posts – from 2015 no less but I still like these photos

The most viewed posts on my blog were:

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! If you blog, which is your favorite or most popular post? Which of my blog posts have you liked the most? Please share.

October 4, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 9.28.20-10.4.20: Virtual Race-Cation

Many many months ago, way before this pandemic, my running friends and I planned a vacation in NH in order to run a half marathon and have some girl friend fun time.

Oct. 4. 2020

Well, the race went virtual like most races in 2020 (with no deferral or refund option).

Some of the group felt uncomfortable going. But at least seven of us decided to go anyway. And it was a super fun time.

In addition to ANOTHER virtual half marathon, I signed up for ANOTHER challenge. RBG! How could you not do this one?

There’s still plenty of time to sign up if you want to join me – Click here.

87 miles run or walked between Sept 20 and Nov 3. I am already DONE but will continue recording my miles and support the cause.

It’s October, don’t forget to support this important cause:

Breast Cancer Support Awareness

and lastly I lost this week, a very dear friend to lung cancer. We played tennis together for years and mah jongg, as well.

just last December – she’s the one at the bottom left

Last Week –

Monday – A rainy morning. I wasn’t sure if I would “#missamonday” so I went for a run on the rail trail before my chiro appt. I originally was hoping to see the results of a chalk art contest but the overnight rain washed everything away. 😦

the one I voted for did win 🙂

I started running in a drizzle, then it stopped but the run ended in a downpour. A little soggy but I got it done.

virtual 5k #5 and they keep getting slower but hey who cares…photo stops are important, right?

SI joint update – almost healed. Yay!!! I asked my chiro to work on my right calf that also seemed tighter than the left. Since this was my last appt, I might as well get my money’s worth. And OUCH! Tight on the inside…worth the pain. Feels great now.

I skipped my lunch walk but met a running friend for a post work run. It was slow intervals and we met on the Voorheesville end of the trail for a change of scenery. Don’t normally run twice in one day but the rest of week looked rainy and busy so why not?

so warm and humid and lots of fallen leaves

Tuesday – Got in a short walk before work

yes, roses still blooming…

and another longer one at lunch. Still no rain.

signs of fall in the ‘hood too

Even though I ran twice yesterday, the legs still felt great so since I had to be at UAlbany to volunteer, I did a loop around campus before we met. Rain in the forecast but I didn’t care if I had to walk in the rain…just not run in it.

no rain but lead legs and I HAD to celebrate National Coffee Day!

Well, the STEM walk got cancelled and it never rained so I went to the mall (with mask on) and bought hiking boots (finally)

Amazon.com | Merrell Women's Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot | Hiking Boots

Wednesday – A rainy day but we did need the rain. So no morning walk.

Luckily it stopped by afternoon so I could get in a short lunch walk

still some flowering in the fields

AND the Sole Sisters weekly trail walk. This week, it was a repeat hike at Six Mile Waterworks (because of its convenient location.)

beautiful weather for a walk on the trails… I’ll be sad when it is too dark to do this.

Thursday – A busy work day and I had a hair appointment scheduled for after work. Obviously a rest day and of course I had to pack for our 4 days in NH.

But I got up early enough to go for a run and I realized how much better I felt after and how much easier it is to run in the morning (even after a horrible night of sleep.)

blue day…oops forgot to wear PINK. signs of Halloween are beginning to appear

I did also squeeze in a short walk at lunch and that was it for the day.

new trail off the water line

Friday – And off we went, 7 of us, in a few different cars. We took the scenic route and though it took longer (and some of our planned stops were closed due to the pandemic), it was still worth it.

our home for 4 days

Saturday – Though the race was originally scheduled for Sunday, we decided to get it over with and do it today. We stuck together for the most part during our run/walk intervals. Some walked. Ocean views, lots of laughs and we all finished 13.1 miles.

A big celebration was in order and in addition to running, this weekend was about birthdays. Three of the group were celebrating birthdays including the big 50 and 70!!

Sunday – More Sole Sister shenanigans. Ocean sunrises, trails, and more. (Pictures coming after I return since I don’t have a computer with me.)

This Coming Week –

Monday – run or hike, last day in NH
Tuesday – DAY OFF – hike or run or both
Wednesday – run?
Thursday – run, trail walk
Friday – rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – Long Run
Sunday – rest day, Boating (LAST ONE for the season)

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” races yet? How are you embracing Fall? Any virtual races or challenges on your plate? Please share.

October 2, 2020 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for October

It’s that time of the month…

Starbucks BEEN THERE Series BTS--New Hampshire (NH) 14oz Mug NIB

where I am right now!!

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

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I said that I was over Virtual races after May’s 5k.

I didn’t run any ALL summer.

Then I signed up for this October Half Marathon one:

ZOOMA merged with Skirt Sports and I’m an ambassador

and this September 5k and 10K:

to support this local organization

and this Fall series of 8 5ks:

it was free because I ran the Steel Rail half marathon (virtually)

and of course, my budget list NH half marathon that went virtual.

and this Oct. one:

to support the Lake George Conservancy

My problem, I don’t even consider them races so I run/walk them. I don’t even want swag (unless it’s for a real race.)

I will have run at least 5 virtual halfs in 2020. Do they even count??

I think NOT.

Do you actually race your “virtual” races? What do you do with swag that you didn’t really earn? Do you count virtual half marathons as half marathons??

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my friends and I decided to go to NH this weekend even though our race has been cancelled.

our rented house with ocean view – 9 beds, 3.5 baths

Don’t tell anyone in NH but if we are from NYS, we are supposed to self-quarantine for 14 days. We debated about not going because of this but then decided to pretend that we didn’t know the rules. Ignorance is bliss.

Would you travel to a state and ignore the pandemic restrictions?

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the weather was perfect for running 2 weeks ago and I was injured. As you can guess, it was hard NOT to run. I even thought that I should not walk or hike. But if you know me, I couldn’t handle that amount of inactivity.

: 6 miles on Corning Bike trail

: 3.5 miles on Vosburgh Trails

: 6 miles on the Zim Smith Bike trail

So I did walk a lot. I did hike.

: 100 Acre Trails

: Community Gardens Trails

: Ushers Rd. St. Forest

It seemed to get better the more I moved. By last Sunday, I was even able to run.

🙂

Have you ever ignored an injury and hoped it will just get better?

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I HATE Fall.

I miss summer already!

I want to get up, throw on a skirt/tank and go for a walk and at lunch, the same, and after work the same.

too cold in the am, too warm in the pm ???

It’s too cold for that in the morning. I have to find layers or even remember what to wear in this cooler weather. And then after work, I have to rush to avoid getting caught in complete darkness.

Yes, I know it will just get colder in the winter but by then I’ll be used to it.

How do you feel about Fall?

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I realized that my running mojo is tied to racing.

I love the excitement of a race and all it entails, even the training.

my last race … sigh

In the beginning of the pandemic, I ran because I thought I would eventually race. Races got cancelled one by one but there was still hope.

Now I’ve run out of hope. I don’t know when I’ll race again.

As a result, I prefer walking and hiking. I wasn’t even that disappointed in my SI joint injury (besides the pain) when I figured out that I could still walk and hike.

I do still run but it’s slow and less often than when I was preparing to race.

this is more fun now

Do you retain your running mojo when there’s no race?

6. (sorry I’m an overachiever) Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I think I’ve inspired my young friend, Anna, from Moscow.

In 2012, she came to visit and watched me run a race. She was intrigued. She had never seen a race before.

Then in 2016, she came to NYC to visit and told me that she wanted to run a race with me. I was surprised because she never mentioned that she ran. So we ran the Dash to the Finish 5k – her first race.

I could tell that she may get hooked. And I was right. She came back in 2018 to run another 5k. Unfortunately it got cancelled due to a thunderstorm.

Fast forward to 2020. Here she is running a 10k in Moscow.

running in a skirt, compression socks, spi belt, baseball cap – I may have influenced her outfit too

I hope that she can come back again some day so we can race together.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

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

September 29, 2020 by Darlene

Oops, I Did It Again

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: What are some running mistakes you’ve made or keep on making?

Incorrect Dress

Not dressing warm enough (though this is rare)

I was FREEZING.

and dressing too warmly (too often).

too warm during this race

Starting Out a Race Too Fast

ALWAYS. I think I’ve only had one race ever with negative splits (and only because I was running with someone else).

Running With An Injury

I am better about that now but I have raced with a stress fracture and a broken foot.

can even smile in pain

No Warm-Ups or Cool Downs

Guilty as charged. Always in a rush to get it done.

No Strength Training.

Yup. Nada or rarely on my part. No time. No Interest. Many excuses….

Too Much Focus on Speed

I have to say that this is my past. I used to obsess about my finish times and PRs.

I no longer really care if I get faster.

Now my focus in running is on enjoyment and connecting with friends. I know that when I run with “slower” runners, I will not improve. But now I get more satisfaction in that I am helping and motivating others.

most likely my slowest half ever… whatever!

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Have you also made any of the above mistakes or any others? Please share.

September 27, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 9.21.20-9.27.20: Fall Officially Arrives

Yes, we’ve already some very chilly mornings. In the 30’s. We’ve already used our fireplace in the evenings. I’ve used the heated seats in my car.

I’m not a fan. I can never dress right and I HATE that my after work runs and hikes will be slowly disappearing.

Of course, by the end of the week, it felt like summer. OY!

Last Week –

Monday – I missed #nevermissamonday because I ran on Sunday and am cautiously resting my back. I went for a pre-work walk and froze (remember I don’t know how to dress for 30 degrees anymore).

these flowers don’t realize how cold it is

I went on a lunchtime walk and then I was too warm.

no worries. there still are flowers despite the frost

Instead of a run after work, since my bike was still on my car, I took it for another road trip. This time to the Corning Bike Trail.

nice views of the Hudson but too many cracks on the path so a bumpy ride

My legs are not yet adjusted to biking… needed a nighttime soak

ahhhh

Tuesday – I dressed to run before work but never got out. Instead I squeezed in a 5k during lunch.

too lazy to change my clothes and I was overdressed in the sunshine. I’m halfway in this series and each race is slower lol

After work, I took a walk before my STEM volunteering assignment. Tonight we walked for about 30 min. and the participants were better behaved than last week. I think I’ll continue doing this.

a sign of the times. we used to give the participants shirts

Wednesday – Long day at work so I made sure to get in a few short walks in the hood. 50 degrees before work, 70 degrees at lunch Ouch!

mum time

apple picking time

Today I also had my second appointment with my chiropractor. She said my SI joint was not as tight. One appointment and I hope to be fixed. She gave me exercises to do for my tight hip flexors.

For our weekly Sole Sisters after work walk today, we returned to Vosburgh Trails. And the weather was perfect for an evening on the trails and to the waterfalls.

we really liked the tree on the right

Thursday – Day off from work and a busy one.

First I went on a hike with some friends. Due to evening plans, we had to choose a shorter hike – Hadley Fire Tower. It was my first fire tower climb and I was a little nervous. But it wasn’t that hard and I loved it!! Can’t wait to do another.

It took about 2 hours to get to the top but it was totally worth it and the weather was perfect. I was even over-dressed.

My friend finished the Fire Tower Challenge – She hiked 23 of them!!

When we got back, I had to rush to get to my monthly tennis friends gathering.

we ordered take-out and sat in our friend’s backyard – always a good time!

Friday – Rest Day Friday. Started the day with a walk.

my favorite neighborhood sign

But not having run for 2 days had me out there for a short one during lunch. I was tired of my neighborhood so I drove to run. Of course, that meant I had less time to run. Oh well.

found a new entrance to the park’s trails but ran mostly along the road & around an apartment complex

in a hearse…creepy, right?

And of course, ended my day with my weekly walk with former co-workers. Instead of the rail trail where we usually walk, we toured the neighborhood where my friend recently moved.

Saturday – LONG RUN DAY. Back on the rail trail. I had thought of running on Sunday but since the hubby decided to play tennis, I decided to meet friends to run. It was our last run because of our virtual half marathon in NH next weekend. I ran early and then met Deirdre, Jan and Debbie for our run/walk interval run while the others walked. It was painless which made me happy.

After the run, I couldn’t join everyone for brunch. I had to rush home. Since we were busy on Sunday, the hubby and I decided to go boating on Lake George today. And the weather couldn’t have been better.

lots of sun, water views, reading and relaxing

Sunday – Today we were scheduled to celebrate my MIL’s birthday. It was take-out at her house in the afternoon.

with her grandsons (the 2 on the left are my stepsons)

That made me happy since it meant that I had time to hike to another fire tower. I convinced a friend to accompany me hoping that she would enjoy it. I choose the Dickinson Hill Fire Tower since it was the closest and I didn’t have much time. Also it was reported to be less than a 3 mile out and back hike.

we accidentally parked at the end and climbed the tower first – super views and then we walked the trail

So glad I did this. And I think Molly enjoyed it too. I see more fire towers in my future.

This Coming Week –

Monday – run
Tuesday – run, STEM walk
Wednesday – run, trail walk
Thursday – rest day, hair appt. pack
Friday – rest day, drive to NH
Saturday – run/walk, fun stuff in NH
Sunday – virtual Smuttynose Half Marathon in NH

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” races yet? How are you embracing Fall? Please share.

September 25, 2020 by Darlene

Runfessions for September ’20

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

I cannot believe that it is Fall. Where did the summer go??

1. I runfess…

I signed up for a series of 8 fall virtual 5k races. I don’t normally wear a watch but you have to post your times in order for it to count.

Instead of my Garmin, I used my Apple watch.

The problem is that I am so out of shape, that I stop and catch my breath every 30-45 sec (no exaggeration).

A bigger problem is that my watch may be on auto-pause. (actually sometimes it stops when I stop and then sometimes it does not. I never manually pause it.)

You get my drift?

2. I runfess…

I also signed up for another virtual 5k and 10k.

And I actually won my age group in each.

sign of the times…no shirt but a mask instead

At least this time, the faster runners did not run the race so I don’t feel as guilty about my awards.

3.I runfess…

I intended to run last Saturday but three of my friends had decided to walk instead of run. I gladly joined them

Who am I? Choosing to walk rather than run??

at least it was 6 miles so I could earn brunch from Leah’s

4. I runfess…

I am very comfortable running intervals at 13-14 min pace.

30:30 intervals but so enjoyable to run slow and with friends

Though I know that if I raced, this would make me very unhappy. But it doesn’t bother me enough to run alone and try to regain some of of former speed.

5.I runfess…

I’m an amateur biker… so amateur I’m not even sure that I use the gears correctly and….. I don’t have a helmet (I know, I know, I will get one soon!!)

first bike road trip – 7 flat miles

Don’t worry. You won’t ever see me and Big Red in a duathlon.

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? So glad to get mine out in the open? Can you identify with any of them? Please share.