Runfessions for January 2026

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

The first one of 2026…

1.I workfess…

I hate to run alone.  I think I’ve mentioned that a zillion times.

Luckily I have a new running friend (who is training for Tokyo marathon).

She lives near me but she is retired and takes many classes each day (hot yoga, pilates, HIIT, spin, etc.)

In order to run with her, I have to run when it’s convenient and on days when I work from home.

That may or may not be during my scheduled worktime.

2. I gymfess…

I joined the YMCA awhile ago.

I am pretty disciplined in going on non-running days when I am home…

I don’t take classes or run one the track or treadmill.

I only use the machines -about 10 of them – the ones to strengthen your arms and hips and abs.

I don’t think I changed the number or repetitions or the weight on the machines since I started….

3. I racefess…

I signed up for a new 10 mile race scheduled for May 17.

It’s in Utica (about 1 1/2 hours away).

Why?  It was $26!!

Then because I was going stir crazy home during the snowstorm, I signed up for another:

 LOl. It was NOT early registration so NOT $26!!!

It does sell out as it is very popular and I’ve never done it before.

Luckily I think some other local runners may go to both and we can carpool.

4. I jefffess…

I’ve convinced many running friends that interval running (started by JEFF Galloway) is the best way to combat the aging process.  IOW, you may slow down as you get older but you can still compete at the longer distances if you Run WALK RUN.

I use whatever intervals my running partner is comfortable with: 90:30, 60:60, 60:30, etc.

I  NEVER use intervals in a race.

That doesn’t mean that I don’t walk. I do whenever I am tired and going up a hill.

I’ve said it’s because I use Runkeeper on my phone (instead of my Garmin) and it will run the battery down…

Is it?

5. I watchfess…

I’ve been  running since 2008.

I started with a Nike chip in my shoe and something attached to my ipod.

But since then I’ve only owned two Garmin watches.

I bought the 205 to run my first half marathon.

and I bought the 230 to run my first marathon.

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


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat Pie, and Runs with Pugs 

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for December 2025

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

The last one of 2025…

1.I runfess…

I was planning to run the Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon again when I am in Florida in February.

But with TWO half marathons scheduled for March, I decided NOT to sign up (Are you disappointed, Jenny?)

2. I runfess…

That being said, you know that I rarely travel anywhere without a race scheduled…

When I was recovering from a sprained ankle, instead of the half marathon, I ran a local 5k in Florida.

I loved that race (and met Jeannie Rice) but they changed the date this year until later in the month.

No worries. I found a new 5k.

Darlene Cardillo's Avatar

8th Anniversary
Sat. February 14, 2026
Bradley Park • Palm Beach, FL
 Race Starts: 8:00 AM
100% of All Proceeds Go Directly To Depression Research

3. I runfess…

But yes, I do plan to run BOTH half marathons in March.  I’ve never run TWO half marathons 6 days apart!!

Wish me luck!!

SUDC Foundation | United Airlines NYC Half – March 15, 2026

March 15, 2026

2026 — Asheville Marathon and Half — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising

March 21, 2026

4. I runfess…

My annual miles is the lowest ever…(even with no injuries).

I’m healthy so that’s all that matters.

5. I runfess…

I’ve mentioned that I didn’t want to run a trail race but I got outvoted.

It wasn’t so bad…

I didn’t fall.  LOL

And who knew it would be so much fun… a different animal from road racing.

But I have no future plans on racing trails (No offense Jenny.)

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


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for November 2025

First Runfessions of Fall

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

1. I runfess…

I am ok with getting slower. It happens with age (for most of us except for those Jeannie Rice types.)

I enjoy racing because you are only compared with those in your age group.

2.I runfess…

Sometimes my ego gets in the way.

In my recent race, I finished behind someone (Debbie Kelley) whom I am always faster than.

Hmmm… did she have a good race or did I have a bad race?

3. I runfess…

That being said, I noticed that I beat someone (Martha DeGrazia) who always beat me…

I wonder if she even noticed? Or cares?

4. I runfess…

Speaking about races… I already started signing up for next year:

    • 01-01-26 – Winter Series #2 (3.5m)- free
    • 01-11-24 – Winter Series #3 (3.5m) – free
    • 01-25-24 – Winter Series #4 (3.5m) – free
    • 02-01-26 – Manhattan 10k
    • 02-08-24 – Winter Series #5 (3.5m) – free
    • 03-21-26 – Asheville Half Marathon

5. I runfess…

I didn’t run the NYC Half Marathon in 2025 (My friends deferred and I ran RnR DC instead)

I did run it in 2019 and 2024. It was cancelled in 2020 & 2021. I ran the virtual in 2022 to get into 2023 but then I broke my foot and couldn’t run it.

I didn’t run any NYRR halfs to quality for 2026 but for some reason, I submitted my local half time.

The qualifying time is 2:27:00 and my time was 2:25:41

can’t believe I got it!!

And according to NYRR…

You’ll traverse two boroughs as you run through diverse neighborhoods and take in stunning views.

Fun fact: The United Airlines NYC Half is the only race to ever run across the Brooklyn Bridge—an unforgettable experience!

Other unique features include a stretch on the FDR Drive with gorgeous East River views and a run through Times Square—one of just two times each year this landmark is closed to traffic.

But…

As you see above, I had already registered to run the Ashville Half 6 days later… Gulp!

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

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for September 2025

First Runfessions of Fall

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

1. I runfess…

Obviously I have runner’s amnesia because after my last half marathon that felt inexplicably hard, I vowed to prepare better so I would not feel defeated that last few miles.

2.I runfess…

I think I went a little overboard with running short races:

My next half marathon on Oct. 11 may go even worse than the last one.

3. I runfess…

Even if my next half marathon is my worst ever, I don’t regret running any of those shorter races.

I enjoyed them and won my age group in each one.

4. I runfess…

My next half marathon will be #75 and if I can stay healthy, I’m going for 100!

 My 1st and it was going to be my only one… (Naples, Fl – 2011)

5. I runfess…

I still plan to run 5ks. I don’t expect any PRs but I haven’t given up hope on that sub 30.

close… 30:09

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

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for August 2025

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

1.I runfess…

I am so happy that both my chiropractor and physical therapist agreed that I was not injured.

But they also felt that in addition to their treatment and the recommended exercises, the running shoes with a higher heel drop helped.

What about ALL those low heel drop Topos that’ve bought that past 4 years?????????

2. I runfess…

Yes, I bought new running shoes: Brooks Ghost Cool Max 2 (on sale at REI) and Wendy offered me hers since they didn’t work for her. Thanks!!

Brooks Ghost Max 2

3. I runfess…

I was worried that eliminating one pain (Achilles) would create another that I worked so hard get rid of (Neuroma).

ok on the first 11 miler…

meh on the 2nd 11 miler… why did the blue ones feel tighter than the white ones???

4. I runfess…

I have a Half Marathon scheduled for tomorrow.

Coming soon in 2025!

But I haven’t made a final decision on whether or not if I’m doing it….

I’ve had the worst training cycle ever…

Between, heat, humidity, 5ks races, ankle issues and the “Rash”…

5. I runfess…

I’m not injured but I came down with an allergic reaction to something and an itchy rash everywhere.

The rash is mostly gone but I was prescribed PREDNISONE!!

Steroid Side Effects: How to Reduce Corticosteroid Side Effects

2x a day

I took it for 5 days which ended on Wednesday. Since it increases your heart rate, I was told not to run!

The worst side effect was sleeplessness!!!

Is the drug still in my system and can I safely run 13.1 miles? Will I have enough energy to do it?

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Should I run the race tomorrow? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for July 2025

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

1.I runfess…

I used say that I was a summer runner. I hated the cold… and all those layers. I couldn’t wait for the temps to rise and the sun to stay out…

This summer has me changing my tune… the heat, the humidity!!  When will it end???

sweating at 5:30 am…ugh!

2. I runfess…

I’m even preferring to race in the rain instead of the heat…

But obviously I’ve been lucky in that respect… this year rain has been a racing constant.

3. I runfess…

I’m experiencing ankle amnesia.

IOW, my ankle has always been tight since I broke it.  It had lots of hardware in it which makes it hard to bend.

It felt different during the last mile of my recent 5k. I thought that I may be injured so I immediately made an appt with my chiro.

She said it was just tight and I was ok to run.

Could it be my achilles not my ankle or am I being paranoid?

After last weekend’s long run, I went back to my chiro to tell that she might be wrong!

I also made several PT appts, just in case.

4. I runfess…

I played tennis. hiked and played pickleball… all in one day.

The next day, my foot/achilles was tight…

I should just stick to ONE sport – running.

5. I runfess…

I have no time for any injury:

    • 07-27-25 – Keep MOO’ving 5K
    • 08-10-25 – Run for the Roses 5k
    • 08-17-25 – Ellen’s Run (5k)
    • 08-30-25 – Run 4 the River Half Marathon
    • 09-06-25 – Malta 5k or 10k
    • 09-13-25 – Squirrel Stampede 10k
    • 09-27-25 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k
    • 10-04-25 – Barn to Bridge 5k
    • 10-11-25 – Lake Placid Half Marathon
    • 10-25-25 – Trick or Trot Pumpkin 5k

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

 

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for May 2025

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

1.I runfess…

I love running and racing but I may like tennis again…

But no, I am only subbing outdoors this summer.

No time or $$ to play tennis the rest of the year.

2. I runfess…

Half marathon is my favorite distance because I love the challenge of finishing 13.1 miles.

But I am enjoying having no half marathon on my schedule from April 12-August 30.

Long runs are not long.

just 6 miles before group brunch

3. I runfess…

I talked a friend who mostly runs marathons into running run/walk intervals.

She complained that she has gotten so slow.

But it may be making me faster too.

4. I runfess…

I had given up hope of having a fast 5k time again.  Each 5k race I’ve done this year has been a course PW.

Except for the last one…

I have a few more scheduled this summer before I run 2 more half marathons.

Maybe I should try for that sub 30 minute finish….

5. I runfess…

I’m already looking ahead to my winter trip to Florida…

Of course, I want to run a race while I’m there.  But we will have to coordinate the dates with our hosts…

The are some of our choices:

    • Jan. 3  – Say No to Drugs 10k (The one we registered for last year but they changed the date)
  • 35th Annual Say No To Drugs Holiday Classic 5K, 10K & 1 Mile Kids Race home
    • Dec. 22-  Aspirations Christmas Wine 5k

Aspirations Christmas Wine Run 5k home

    • Dec. 13 – RunFluent Christmas Trail run  (4 mi or  7 hr.)

    • Dec 20  – Run Tampa Tinsel 5k

Run Tampa Tinsel Run 5k

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

 

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for May 2025

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

1.I runfess…

I guess it pays to be old but it doesn’t help my training when I keep winning my age group with PWs.

2. I runfess…

I had thought I ‘d run a May half marathon as my 4th of the year.

Steel Rail Races Race Reviews | Lanesborough, Massachusetts

Unlike what I normally do, I waited to sign up.

Then I didn’t feel trained and so I didn’t.

Wouldn’t you know it? We had perfect running weather finally the day of the race – cool and cloudy.

3. I runfess…

I am having a hard time adjusting to running in humid weather.

What does a runner do?

Buy new shoes…

Aura

Topos Auras

Cyclone 3

Topos Cyclones

4. I runfess…

I have started decluttering and have gotten rid of many skirts.

But I’m having a hard time parting with my shoes.

Yes, I wear them out quickly (I must drag my heels…) But I still wear them for runs.

I just try to wear newer ones for racing.

in my Topos Auras – this may be my preferred long distance shoe..

5. I runfess…

Tomorrow I’ll be running the Run for Women 5k for the 18th time.

It has been my favorite race but as you know, all my races this year have been course PWs.

Does it count that I walked the race last year so no PW for me? LOL

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

 

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for April 2025

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

1.I runfess…

I am pretty dedicated to my running schedule but when sickness and weather derailed my plans two Saturdays in a row, even my friend noticed and posted this in FB:

I think Darlene S. Cardillo has been hacked. Don’t think I’ve ever heard her say something like this 😀😀😀

2. I runfess…

I hate to take running breaks because it is so hard to get back on track.

3. I runfess…

I really enjoy mentoring new runners but this also affects my own running.

I plan to try to run some miles before the group meets each Wednesday at 6 pm.

4. I runfess…

Even when I complain about my slow finish times, I still enjoy the challenge of completing a half marathon.

73 completed (including a few Pandemic virtuals).

Do I go for 100? LOL.

5. I runfess…

Speaking of slow finish times, my first tw0 half marathons this year were run with paces that were may be slower than my marathon.

For the 3rd half, I wanted to finish under 2:27 and if I didn’t, I might consider running another in May. I have run this race twice already but it is on its third different course.

Profile for MountainOne Steel Rail Races

now an out and back on the bike path in MA.

Phew. No pressure now!!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Runfessions for March 2025

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

1.I runfess…

Since one of my goals this year was to run NEW races, I was looking forward to this race:

My college roommate lives nearby so I encouraged her to sign up as a volunteer.

I even got Thursday-Monday off from work.

Of course, a breast cancer charity is important for me as well.

Guess what?

I went online to sign up for the race and discovered that it’s  only virtual this year. I was very disappointed.

I contacted them and now I think they may have the race. They responded that details will be posted in early summer.  ???

2. I runfess…

I had so much fun running the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and getting a PW.

Yup, I stayed with a friend and when I got ahead of her, I stopped and waited for her.

And I took photos. I’ve never done that during a race before.

3. I runfess…

I may opt to do all my races like this. At least ones that I travel to with a friend.

4. I runfess…

That being said, my next half marathon is local and downhill.

So I am hoping (or dreaming) to finish it with some semblance of speed.

5. I runfess…

I am already looking for a new fun half marathon for next March or early April.  Anyone have a suggestion?

Asheville Marathon & Half - Asheville, North Carolina, Mar 17 2018

maybe?

or maybe?

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

 

 

 

 

 

 


It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

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Click here to enter

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