TT: Makeup On the Run?

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Makeup while running – yes or no?

Yes!

Here’s the Makeup-related items that I wear when I run:

  • Foundation – because it hides flaws in your skin (bags under your eyes lol) but mostly since it’s contains SUNSCREEN.
  • Lipstick – I just always do wear it (for COLOR) but also because it contains sunscreen and prevents my lips from getting dry and cracked.
  • Earrings – Always, usually hoops.
  • Eyeliner & Mascara – rarely but sometimes. (Rarely because I wear sunglasses and no one sees my eyes)
  • Sunglasses – Almost Always – I wear Contacts and my eyes are sensitive to sun and wind.

I still follow the same above during the Pandemic because I run most days and I do have ZOOM meetings. (Can’t scare my co-workers and friends away!)

The only issue has been that when I wear a gaiter, it fogs up my sunglasses.  Sometimes I do wear my glasses instead of my contacts…SAME!! (Luckily I’m not blind without my glasses and I just shove them in my pocket.)

contactless run


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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! What about you? What do you wear on your face when you run? Or do you run au naturel? Please share.

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TT: What Did I Think About on my Last Run?

The Tuesday Topic this week is: What Did You Think About on Your Last Run

Usually I listen to a Podcast, Music or Peleton because I do NOT want to think.  LOL

Unfortunately my thoughts don’t always seem to be positive ones!!

Here’s how it went down during my recent run:

  • Work. My last training, My next training. A New training that I have to learn. (BTW: I teach online.) Stress.
  • Pandemic.  When will my friends got their vaccines? When will I be able to eat in a restaurant, go to a movie or have fun? Despair.
  • Running. Why do I have to walk so often? Why do I want to quit after one mile? Why does it feel hard? Is it like this for other runners? What is my pace, like14 m/m? Frustration.

And during the last 1/4 mile:

  • Work. Glad to be working from home. I can work wearing my running clothes and be out the door in minutes.  Relief.
  • Pandemic.  Being outside is the best thing right now.  I am so lucky that I get to do this. Gratitude.
  • Running. I did it. I didn’t quit. I didn’t die. Many others probably stayed inside.  Pride.


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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! What did you think about on your last run? Please share.

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Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon Race Recap

2020 Publix Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Komen 6K, Kids Race - Fort Lauderdale, FL - Half Marathon - Marathon - Running

February 14, 2021

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever (since last February, I believe).

So this year, I did run the Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon as my 43th Half Marathon (49th if you count the six 2020 virtuals) for these reasons:

  • A warmer weather race-cation opportunity
  • I had a flight credit from a cancelled vacation.
  • I had enough points for 4 nights in a hotel.
  • It was held on Presidents Day weekend (one less day to take off from work)
  • It was advertised as a scenic course with ocean views.
  • The race’s COVID-19 plan provided enough safety for its racers IMO.
  • I’ve never been to Fort Lauderdale.
  • I had four friends that lived nearby (for the winter.)
  • I had gotten BOTH of my COVID vaccines.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan.  I ran my last half marathon in November (an in-person one.)  I didn’t wear a watch. It was very hilly and so I was thrilled to just finish.

Upstate Classic HM

As with all my half marathon training, I did not really care about my week day runs. They were usually 3 easy miles.

However, I do try to do longer runs on the weekend. I did manage ALL year to run at least 10 miles every weekend.  I even got in one 11 miler and one 12 miler before this race.

Though I did feel somewhat prepared to run 13.1 miles, my goal for this half marathon was still to just finish and to ENJOY RUNNING A REAL RACE!!!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Although the half marathon was scheduled for Sunday morning, I arrived (with no flight drama) in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday afternoon. I rented a car there and drove North to Boca Raton where I spent the next two days (staying in a hotel rather than at my friends’ places.)

I got to hang out with my four friends while visiting the beaches, gardens, bird sanctuaries and outdoor restaurants. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there (even wearing a mask almost all the time).

On Saturday afternoon, I left Boca, headed back to Fort Lauderdale to the expo to pick up my race packet, then returned North to Pompano Beach for a Lighthouse Tour (by Boat) followed by dinner across from the Pompano Beach pier. Instead of my usual pre-race pizza, I chose Shrimp n Grits (and hoped that it was an adequate carb loading substitute.)

Finally I arrived at my Fort Lauderdale hotel in time to organize my usual race outfit (tank, skirt, cap) and hit the sack earlyish.

Race Day:

I brought my oatmeal and coffee from home with me and got up around 3:00 am to get ready and have breakfast in my hotel room. I was a little nervous when it was already 78 degrees with 91% humidity – ouch! Not much I could do except leave off the compression calf sleeves and the throw-away clothing.

I had decided to purchase in advance the VIP parking. For $29, it was affordable (hey how many races did I NOT pay to run in 2020?) and piece of mind that early in the morning.  You had to be at the race by 4:30 am!!

The parking lot was at a hotel and very easy to find.  And you were able to use the hotel restrooms (and there were many!) and the race start (and finish) was right across the street. It was a little breezy so I put on my DIY arm warmers but they sure didn’t stay on long.

You were required to wear a mask until you crossed the start line and everyone complied. The runners were so friendly and from all over the US. This was actually the best part of the race….making new friends.

view while waiting to start

There was a staggered start. – 20 runners at a time, 6 ft apart.  You lined up by estimated finish time. I lined up behind the 2:15 pacer.  however most runners around me said that they were slower but didn’t want to wait that long to start. I felt the same way!

This may have been the last time I saw this sign

Eventually the race started with the announcer reminding runners to throw their bib in the trash and not on the course. (You would be given another mask after you crossed the finish line to wear in the finish/food/band area.)

I started around 6:30 am.

I’ll do my best to recap the race below. (Warning: it’ll be long…)

My plan, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a GU around every 3-4 miles.  I planned to walk whenever necessary and NOT RACE it. It was VERY hot (85 degrees with 95% humidity) and I didn’t want to end up in an ambulance.

looks hilly. but it wasn’t!

I will also try to put a positive spin on my recap. Honestly, it felt harder than it should have. For the first time during a race, I wondered if I would be able to finish. (I didn’t even feel that way during my marathon.)
Miles 1-4:

We started running south (with the ocean on the left) and ran along route 1A and around the point where we viewed some gorgeous oceanside homes.

As always, I felt more energetic during the beginning miles. Unfortunately, my feet hurt from the first step to the last. I was disappointed but was prepared for the pain. I was trying to run at a  consistent pace. I was not very successful at this as the race went on.

I stopped at each water stop as planned. They were at about every 1 1/2 miles which normally would be frequent enough but not when it over 85 degrees.  After the first few water/Gatorade stops, I started taking TWO cups of water – one to drink and one to pour on myself.

Around mile 3, a lady went down.  At that point, I decided to slow down and make sure that it would not be me. Now we were heading north toward the race start (with the ocean on the right).

I was very excited to finally get to see the sun rise over the ocean without clouds blocking the sun. I think it was around mile 4 and I ran over to snap a photo.

Miles 4-6:

As you can see, we were still running with the water on our right.  I was desperately trying to focus on the beautiful views and not on how hot it was and how dizzy/nauseous it was making me feel. I took my first GU at this point and slowed down which made me feel better.

fake smile

I continued slogging along running until a water stop.  But my running felt like a crawl. I used my watch to see what mile we were on. The mile markers were painted on the ground (very lightly and often crossed out from last year’s course).

Miles 6-10:

Although I loved looking at the ocean, it did get monotonous after awhile. Other runners told me that in previous years, it was not a loop and so not as much ocean views but a variety of views including a park.

Many runners were dressed up in their tutus for Valentine’s Day and that was at least a distraction.

I just continued putting one step in front of another. I was determined to finish even if it meant walking the rest of the race.

The turn around which seemed like a marathon away finally arrived around mile 8 and then we did a loop until mile 9.

Then we returned onto 1A with now the ocean on our left.  The slower half marathoners were now heading in the opposite direction (as opposed to the speedy ones that passed me by before.)

Around this time, I ate another GU and started drinking more water and walking longer at the stops. And there was the blister forming on my left foot – ouchy!

Miles 10-13.17:

By this point, I was struggling big time. Not sure why. The course was flat!

The Vaccine? Too much activity on previous days? Not enough sleep?  The heat?  The humidity? My feet? ???

Whatever the reason, I knew that it would NOT prevent me from finishing.  I kept thinking that there were marathon runners completing the course TWICE!!!!!!  I certainly can do it once.

One last GU and I was able to re-energize and sprint toward the finish line.

I crossed at 2:35:58. 

A big PW but I was thrilled to have finished and have “run” a RACE!!

I was immediately handed a bottle of water, a mask and the finisher medal wrapped in plastic.

It took me a while to get up enough energy to move from sitting on that wall.  I first headed to get some chocolate milk and then sat again and chatted with a few runners (all happy but very very hot and sweaty.)

Next I dragged my aching feet to the ocean and boy, did that feel good.

not sure how long I stood there?

Then I decided that I needed to eat. Nothing really appealed to me though there was quite a variety but my stomach felt too queasy for tacos, burritos, refried beans…

I opted for some fruit, cookies, rice and a cold brew. I think I also took some other items and drinks but skipped the beer (before 10 am.)

Eventually, I headed back to my car since my friend Barbara was picking me up at my hotel in order to meet two other friends for a airboat ride on the Everglades.

perfect activity post-race…nice breeze on the boat and I didn’t have to walk anywhere.

Additional Race Reflections:

The Good:

  • A real Race
  • 2 day expo with mandatory mask requirements
  • A good number of booths and food/drink samples at the expo.
  • Excellent communication about every aspect of the race before, during and after the race. – FB video on 1-19-21 and many Q & A’s.
  • Easy packet pick-up
  • VIP parking available and city lots (COVID rate) and public lots
  • Sufficient number of port-a-potties at start/finish and along the course
  • Staggered start – 6 ft apart, 20 in each corral (.5 mile area). Each corral started every 20 seconds.
  • Spectators required to wear masks.
  • Sanitizing stations throughout the race.
  • Water stops 1.2-1.5 miles apart – 6 so you could stop 12 times.
  • Disposable masks given out at the finish line.
  • Volunteers/police directing traffic.
  • Pacers.
  • Many racers dressed up for Valentine’s Day.
  • 6 hour time limit for the race (since it included a marathon)
  • Pre-packaged food post-race and safe places to eat.
  • Music (Band) in the finish area
  • Custom Sand Castle
  • Lots of photographers on the course
  • Sunny weather
  • Beautiful course. Water views throughout.
  • Friendly staff, participants, volunteers, residents.
  • A large variety of food (tacos, burritos, fruit, cookies, beer, chocolate milk, cold brew, etc.)
  • Ocean near the finish area (to go swimming)
  • Age groups awards mailed.
  • A real race.

made out of sand

The Bad:

  • Early 5:45 am start time (but probably necessary due to temps)
  • ALL COVID Restrictions (but very necessary).
  • Cooler and less humid temps would have been nicer.
  • Large number of racers (but 50% capacity of the original) – about 2000 runners.
  • No Bag Check –  not necessary if you parked close by
  • Ocean views could get monotonous (but necessary due to revised course and no shuttle to the start)
  • I had no friends running this with me (missed you Cari!)

The Ugly:

  • Nothing 🙂

the dolphins move back n forth

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail.  The course was scenic. And if the pandemic ends and it returns to the previous course, it will be even better.

Final Stats:

I am so proud that my body can run even when the conditions are not optimal. Yup, pain is temporary. I quickly forgot the next day how much it had hurt.

A far cry from my 2:06:52 PR in 2017 and my NYC qualifying time of 2:11:15 in 2019.

This old broad will just have to be content finishing upright from now on, I guess.

Next Up:

Druthers Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon. (on a revised course – same as the Fall Classic)

Logo

April 14, 2021


There is a link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies and you should too.


I’m linking up also with this new link-up:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsRunning on HappyConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Have you ever been to Fort Lauderdale? Ever run this race? Any in-person races planned for 2021? Please share.

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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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns 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.

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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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns 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.

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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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

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

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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.

6.Favorite Binge-Worthy TV Series – Schitt’s Creek

I loved everything about this series and was hooked immediately.  Of course, it was fitness-related.

I mean Alexis was a runner (and she had adorable running outfits).

image

Remember when she learned to ride a bike and then taught David?

Schitt's Creek: Alexis' Shadiest Burns, Ranked | ScreenRant

and David’s yoga experience…

Pop schitts creek GIF - Find on GIFER

and finally the big hike and Patrick’s proposal:

9 David & Patrick 'Schitt's Creek' Moments That Are Simply the Best (PHOTOS) - TV Insider


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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! What are some of your favorites from 2020? Please share.

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TT: What I learned about myself during the Pandemic

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

The Topic this week is: What did you learn about yourself during the pandemic?

First, things I learned that surprised me:

  • I could let people see me without makeup.
  • I could spend half the day in pajamas.
  • I could wear the same outfit two days in a row.
  • I could binge watch a Netflix series.
  • I did not hate working from home.
  • I cooked more often.

Yup, I admit it. I’m pretty vain. I used to wear lipstick even when I went out for a run. I plan my outfits and love to dress up.  I rarely sit in front in of the TV yet alone watch 6 seasons of a show. I enjoy being on the go and loved the social interaction at a job. So the option of working in a room at home everyday was something I NEVER considered.

Secondly, things I learned that did not surprise me:

  • I needed to color my hair and have my nails done.
  • I missed shopping and the need to buy new clothes (and shoes.)
  • I MISSED RACES!
  • I missed going to the movies, shows, concerts and other events.
  • I missed seeing my friends on a regular basis.
  • I missed work travel and running in different places.
  • I missed my Friday night mah jongg games.
  • I was disciplined (or stubborn) enough to run all the miles even without races to train for.
  • Even with more free time, I did not work out or cross-train.
  • Running virtual races were just fun runs for me.
  • I was not nervous running an in-person race.
  • I enjoyed hiking as much as or maybe more than running.
  • I’m not ready to retire.

2020 = 1017 Miles
Jan – 83.8 miles
Feb – 76.7 miles
Mar – 91 miles
Apr – 89 miles
May – 86.5 miles
Jun – 82 miles
Jul –  78 miles
Aug – 89 miles
Sept – 75 miles
Oct –  93 miles
Nov – 87 miles
Dec – 86 miles

As you can see above, I ran pretty consistently throughout the year. I usually try for 84 each month but some months are more and some are less. In fact, I ran MORE miles than the years that I was racing every weekend even in 2019 when I was training for my first marathon.

I love to be active so no surprise that when I was stuck at home everyday, I explored a new fitness option – Hiking saved my sanity, for sure.

So now it’s 2021 and the Pandemic is not over yet….

However I’m better prepared this year for the changes and inconveniences it brings.


I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! What did you learn about yourself during the Pandemic? Please share.

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TT: Hiking 2020

Our 3 Favorite Walking Paths in Houston | Houstonia Magazine

Once the Pandemic hit in March, I knew that running 30 or more races including one half marathon each month would not likely happen.

I planned to continue to run hoping that the Pandemic would end but just in case, I knew that I needed an additional goal to stay active. Since I was working from home with no travel plans, I would have extra time.

In April, I decided that in addition to running, I would visit 25 trails in my area.

Before 2020, I had NO idea how many nearby opportunities there were for hiking.

I wound up enjoying my trail walks, both solo and with friends, even more than my runs.

So I made the effort to visit as many trails each week as I had time for. Both after work and on weekends.

By June, I changed my goal to 50 trails and to also re-visit the ones I liked in different seasons.

I won’t bombard you with the zillion photos I have (If you follow me on IG – dsc59  you’ve seen them all), just a few!

So here’s a list of the trails that I have visited:

  • Mohawk Hudson Conservancy-
  • Nature Conservancy –
  • while on vacation:
    • Marginal Way (ME)
    • Wells Reserve at Laudholm (ME)

 

GRAND TOTAL = 74

That doesn’t count the times that I have re-visited many of the places.  Unfortunately, a snowstorm arrived on Dec 17 and my hiking adventures ended pre-maturely.

But don’t worry. I have discovered a new love. And there are many more places that I have not hiked yet.


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


I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! Any non-running goals or accomplishments in 2020? Please share.

My Word for 2021

Will You Take the One Word Challenge This Year?

Below is a list of the words, I’ve chosen so far:

I can’t take full credit for my word this year. I got the idea from Aliphine Tuliamuk (winner of the 2020 US Olympic marathon trials & who will be representing the US at the 2021 Olympics).  During 2020, she was sidelined with a stress fracture. When she couldn’t run, she started crocheting and made thousands of AllieT Resiliency Beanies.

AllieResiliencyHats on Etsy

Here is why Allie decided to crochet these beanies:

“I realized that crocheting saved me, it saved me from worrying about my return to running, it lifted my spirits and gave me something to focus my attention to, hence RESILIENCE! I hope that everyone wearing my beanies feels resilience from whatever knockdown life has handed them, for there is light at the end of the tunnel!”

Hence, my word for 2021 is:

resilience definition

Re: Misfortune –

I experienced quite a few losses during 2020 (several friends and my grandson).

Re: Change –

There was the lack of a social events, little travel, working from home, isolation from family and friends, and very few races in 2020.

I also can’t take credit for the strategies I explain below that will help me build resilience in 2021. (They come from https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience).

But the gist from this article (and how I can relate it to running) is this:

  • Prioritize relationships.

Sometimes it feels easier to run alone but being with others can help you get back on track.

However, try to surround yourself with those who either share your goals or support you on your own running journey.

with my crazy friends who ran 13.1 miles even though the race was cancelled

These relationships also include your VIRTUAL running friends!

  • Join a group.

As I said above, it’s often easier to just run by yourself on your own schedule.

I am fortunate that my area already has many running groups formed.  You just have to join them on their runs.

Virtual groups count as well!

  • Take care of your body.

Proper nutrition, ample sleep, hydration, and regular exercise can strengthen your body and help you adapt to anything life throws at you.

Hello Running!!

and of course I need the other things too.

Meet George!

  • Practice mindfulness.

Journaling, yoga, prayer, or meditation can help. And when you do any of these activities, remember to focus on the positive aspects of your life and remember the things you’re grateful for.

Truthfully, I am not really into mindfulness and the closest I get to it is during my solo hikes or runs in nature setting.

  • Avoid negative outlets.

In stressful times, you may often turn to overeating, alcohol or even over-exercising.  You may feel better but it’s like “putting a bandage on a deep wound.”

Find ways to manage your stress in healthy ways.

I admit that an ice cream cone or a glass of red wine does make me feel better. But I’ve never had a problem over-indulging with either.  Running or hiking with friends has been (and will be) my regular stress-reliever.

with my Friday evening walking buddies

  • Help others.

Whether you volunteer or simply support a friend in need, you will gain a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Again I feel fortunate that there are many local opportunities to volunteer as a runner: being a mentor with the Frehofer Run training group, or with STEM or with GOTR. You can also informally mentor/help your running friends.

  • Be proactive.

In other words, acknowledge and accept your past (unhappy) situations. But more importantly, take initiative in recognizing the strengths that you possessed and the successes you achieved during those difficult times. This will increase the likelihood that you’ll rise up again if you happen upon painful times.

I certainly shocked myself by running SIX half marathons virtually in 2020.

 half marathon 8 out 9 and 6th virtual run during 2020 

And without any races to train for, I ran over 1000 miles.

Both these should be a confidence boaster for 2021 even if I set different goals.

  • Move toward your goals.

You need to set realistic goals in addition to a BIGGER (possibly unachievable) goal.

This goal should be something that you can do regularly. Even if it seems like a small accomplishment, it can enable you to move toward the bigger goal that you want to accomplish.  Your big goal may seem unreachable but it can help to focus on smaller tasks or activities related to that goal.

TWELVE half marathons in one year when half marathon after marathon was being cancelled. How will I continue to do long runs on the weekend without any race to train for??

Simple. Just stay healthy and run.

Every run counts and could lead to the bigger goal of running 1000 miles for the year

  • Look for opportunities for self-discovery.

Runners can find that they have grown in some respect as a result of having faced adversity.

Maybe by running fewer miles, they have fewer injuries. Maybe by not running any races, they have improved their form or pace. Maybe by not worrying about speed, they have added endurance.

9 months after the Fred Lebow HM, I ran this hilly half 3 minutes faster (and without wearing a watch)

Not sure which one happened for me but I think it was the latter. Nevertheless, I hope to improve as a runner in 2021 as well.

  • Keep things in perspective.

“How you think can play a significant part in how you feel.”

Try to be a “glass half full” or optimistic kind of runner.

It’s not the end of the world if you never PR again or you do not qualify for a prestigious race or you do not win any age group awards.

Focus on what you CAN do.

 This may be the last time I time qualify for a NYC race so I guess I will have find other big races to run.

  • Accept change.

Accept that change is a part of life.

As runners get older, they get slower.  This is often hard to accept but it’s a fact.  After a year of not racing, our finish times may have declined at an even faster rate.

And even when in-person races return, they will probably be different.

I wonder how many races in 2021 will I look like this?

  • Maintain a hopeful outlook.

Expect that good things will happen to you as a runner in 2021.

Visualize what you want, rather than worrying about what you fear.

races with ice cream at the end?

  • Learn from your past.

What did last year’s negative experiences teach you?  What strengths did you discover that helped you deal?

Use them to make this year your best running year ever. (Best does not have to mean fastest, most races, most PRs, most awards.)

Running Happy! With Friends!

I know that many of you have experienced a difficult 2020.  Hopefully, some of the strategies mentioned above will help you be “resilient” in 2021.


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 RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! Do you choose a Word each year? If so, have you chosen one for 2021?  Please share.

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