January 10, 2018 by Darlene

Running Goals That Don’t Involve Running

What if I have no goals?

I don’t set any running goals!

Every other runner seems to. Why don’t I?

Recently I decided to figure why…

Here’s what I came up with. (It’s purely personal. It’s not meant to be critical of those runners who need to have goals!!!)

DESIRE

I run because I want to. I don’t need a goal to get me out the door.

SOCIAL ASPECT

I enjoy being around people. Through running I have made some great friends and I run to be around them (even if it’s only afterwards or before.) I don’t need a goal for that.

COMPETITIVENESS

I am naturally a competitive person. I like to win at board games, tennis matches,etc. So I want to run well and I want to run fast. I don’t need to set a goal. Every run and race will have different challenges. Sometimes I will do well and sometimes I will not. But I will always try to do my best. I don’t need a goal to PR. I want to PR.

FEELING GOOD

Probably the most important reason I run is that I feel better when I am done. Even after the worst runs or races. That feeling gets me out in cold or warm temps. I don’t need a goal to run X times each week. I run because I want to feel good as often as possible.

HEALTH

Don’t we all want to be healthy? Who wants to be injured? Who wants to feel aches and pains? Since I started running, I have more energy and am rarely sick or feel rundown. Nothing hurts so I don’t stretch or foam roll. When I was injured, I did the necessary exercises to heal. I don’t need goal to tell me to listen to my body.

tennis as X training?

TRAVEL OPS

I’ve always loved to see new places. Going to conferences all over the country was the highlight of my previous jobs. Unfortunately, I didn’t run then. So now, when I travel, it always involves a race. I don’t need a goal to run in every state. I choose the places that I want to visit and then I find a race.

Sarasota, FL

As you can read from the title of this post, I do have some goals but they do not involve running. Image result for my goals

Find good in everything and everyone.

This may be obvious. But I and many of us focus on what’s not working and what and whom we don’t like. It’s natural. It’s also a downer. Watching the news and reading FB posts will make this one a challenge, for sure.

Don’t just schedule my running but schedule relationships.

Yes, I always make sure that I get my 3-4 runs in each week. That makes it seem like running is a priority in my life. I see my hubby because we live together but I have friends that I rarely see because it doesn’t get scheduled. I work and then I run and then go home. So I plan to schedule time at least once a week with a friend or former co-worker.

We worked together for 20 years and rarely see each other but went to NYC last Sunday!!

Volunteer.

I have mentored an unwed mother for almost 10 years and she may be moving away. I feel strongly about giving back. Even with my busy schedule, I feel that it is important so I will try to volunteer somewhere. There are so many opportunities out there.

I will miss them!!

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! Do you set running goals? Do you have any goals that do not involve running?

January 9, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: Running Guilty Pleasure

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Today’s Topic is: Your Running Guilty Pleasure

Many might say mine is clothes because I always have to match but truth be told, many other runners buy much more running clothes than I. I don’t need to try every new item out there and I don’t like to spent my money on running clothes.

I have NEVER gotten a massage nor have I ever seen a chiropractor.

But I am a sucker for FOOD!!

Yes, I plan my runs by location near a desirable food locale like Starbucks coffee

or any ice cream establishment.

If someone mentions food after a run, I’m there!

I feel lucky to have found a bunch of women who feel the same way! You’ll never see any empty place in front of me after a run (only an empty plate LOL).

I am especially drawn to races with good post-race food options.

Yes, I know I most likely add back more calories that I have burned running.

Life is too short!

Image result for run all the miles eat all the food

Happy Running! What is on your running guilty pleasure?

January 2, 2018 by Darlene

2018. What’s the Word? & TOTR

Well, it’s that time of year.

Time to pick ONE WORD to focus on for the entire year.

(If you’ve never heard about the My One Word approach, here is a summary:

Lose the long the list of changes you want to make this year and instead pick one word. This process forces clarity by taking all of your big plans for life change and narrowing them down into a single thing. Your one word focuses on your character and creates a vision for your future.)

2014 was the first time that I tried it. My word was:

In 2015, the word that I chose was:

I picked in 2016:

Last year, I chose the word:

So what will it be in 2018?

My first thought was the word, SURVIVE (even though someone mentioned that I should choose a word with a more positive spin.)

I’m not talking about my running per se. But how life (or specifically my job) will this year be getting in the way of my time with family, friends and yes, running.

In other words, adapt. You’ve heard the saying: “If life throws at you lemons, make lemonade.”

It doesn’t look like things will change in the near future work-wise, so what I need to do is ADAPT!

Here’s one of my favorite quotes:

Back to my word for 2018..

It will be:

According to the dictionary, Adapt means:

Change in order to survive better in a certain situation…

How will I focus on my word this year and how will it apply to running?

I will try to:

Change my attitude about my job. Be more positive. Stop whining. It is what it is.
Change my running preferences. That may mean running fewer miles or running at undesirable times (before work gulp) or even using the treadmill.
Change my expectations. This may include not participating in running groups or volunteer opportunities or even cutting back on race-cations.
Accept that sometimes “less is more.” Quality runs, quality races instead of quantity.
Accept that there may not be enough time to train adequately for longer distances or faster finish times.
Stop comparing myself to others who have more time, more flexible schedules, etc.

Honestly, all of the above will be very difficult. Maybe even impossible.

But there are people who have to ADAPT to much more difficult situations in their life (health, family, finances, etc.)

And to put a positive spin on the word ADAPT…

I will

adapt to races in new places

adapt to running on new scenic routes

use hotel, credit card, car rental and train points to take race-cations

As long as I can run and race, life won’t be so bad.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt lifefor

Happy Running! If you were to choose ONE word for your focus throughout this year, what word would you choose?

December 26, 2017 by Darlene

TOTR: December Report Card

Image result for december's over welcome january

Well, it looks like winter has arrived…cold, wind and even a little snow.

Here’s how December worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home. I prefer to run 4 times but sometimes it just doesn’t happen.

I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights and it is now too dark when I get out of work. I did run while working in NYC (three weeks in a row) and when in Liverpool. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles.

: NYC

: NYC

: Liverpool

I ran alone most of the time. MY BRF Alyssa was not able to accompany because her hubby is ill. It’s definitely more fun running with friends.

: The Crossings

: UAlbany

: the ‘Hood

Long Runs:

Long runs ended with my half marathon on Nov. 12 and since my next one is not until March 2018, I don’t predict double digits until February! But I still planned to run at least 6 miles each weekend. And I was successful!!

: 6 miles

Total Mileage:

I have run 60 miles this month so far. A big decrease over November (102) but I am feeling healthy so all is good.

And I hit 1000 miles for the second year in a row!!!!!

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran the Winter Series #1 Race which was 3 miles and the Albany Last Run which was a festive, snowy 5k. I was pleased with my sub 27 minute finish in the Winter Series Race and also happy that I didn’t fall during the slippery course (until the finish line) for the Albany Last Run.

: Winter Series #1 – 3M

Cross Training:

I actually played tennis twice indoors. It’s doubles so not a great workout but better than nothing.

I did NOT go to work out at the gym at all!!!! Not once! Nunca! Jamais! No excuses because I live near a free gym and my tennis club membership this year includes free access to the gym.

I thought I might fit in a yoga class. I did NOT!!

I did walk-occasionally at lunch. Not everyday like I used to. I find it hard to tear myself away from my desk and I have been traveling a lot.

Other News:

There were also quite a few friend-bonding activities. Can’t have too many of those.

: BFF’s b-day

: tennis holiday party

: Christmas Day

I saw a few movies that I highly recommend:

I also read this book and LOVED it:

As you can tell, running is not my whole life. I think it is important to make time for other things that bring you pleasure….family, friends, food….

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

No other half marathons planned until March.

I have just a few shorter races planned. My racing schedule does slow down during the winter.

This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

1-01-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #2 (3.5m)
1-14-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #3 (3m or 10K)
1-28-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #4 (3m or 15K)
2-03-18 – Polar Cap 4m
2-18-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #5 (4.5m or 10m)

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her January Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 so I’m sticking with it in 2017!

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt lifefor

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall a B.

You know, zero gym attendance, skipping lunch time walks and even had to (due to the weather) skip week day runs.

Spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner. (I know. I know. Winter has only just begun…)

Happy Running! How did your December turn out? Anything exciting planned for January?

What grade would you give your running month?

December 19, 2017 by Darlene

My Year of Running in 2017

So today I’m linking up with Courtney to share my Year of Running in 2017! Be sure to check her site and see how everyone else did!

Warning. I’m not good at picking just one or even two. Lol

Best Race(s)

So what determines a “best” race? Fastest??

Well, the Steel Rail is my half marathon PR. And it was totally unexpected. In other words, stress-free and so it was enjoyable.

So was the Polar Cap Run for 4 Miles.

I loved all of my 35 races. Each one was special in a different way.

Best Run(s)

My runs are not usually very good or very exciting.

One of my best ones was with a new running friend who convinced me to do my long run slower and NOT walk. (I ran 11 miles without walking!!)

I would be remiss not to mention that my new job has allowed me run on some neat bike paths (Onondaga Lake Ste Park in Liverpool, Lake Ontario and Erie Canal Path in Rochester and of course, Central and the river paths in Manhattan). That has been exciting (the running not the job or the traveling).

Best New Piece(s) of Running Gear

It’s a tie here.

First my Knuckle Lights. They will allow me to do my runs on routes that aren’t lit.

Secondly is my Garmin 205. This was my first watch. It died finally and I tried a few others but this dinosaur is my favorite so I bought another this year.

Most Inspirational Runner(s)

Well, there are quite a few.

First Shalane who kicked a$$ and won the NYC marathon.

Secondly, two bloggers that I have met in person: Wendy from Taking the long way home who was diagnosed with RA and has not let it interfere with her running journey and Marcia from The Healthy Slice who got injured and still completed the Berlin Marathon.

l to r: Marcia, me, Judy, MaryBeth, Wendy & Holly

Finally my local running friend Judy from Chocolate Runs Judy who has PRd in all her half marathons this year. Now that’s impressive.

Favorite Picture from a Run or Race

Again there are a few:

Of course my fall at my last race. Lol

But seriously.

Running down Las Vegas Strip

And running at a French-themed race in Central Park.

Race Experience(s) you would repeat in a heart beat

Well you know I love race-cations so there were five in 2017:

Treasure Coast Half Marathon in Florida while visiting friends.

Shape Half Marathon and France Run, both in NYC.

Wineglass Half Marathon in Corning, NY with new running buddies.

All 10 of us at the expo

And of course, the Rock n Roll Vegas 5k and Half Marathon.

I doubt I will be able to repeat any of these but I would if I could.

If you could sum up your year in a couple of words what would they be?

Races…Vacations…Friends…Healthy

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Happy Running! What are some of the highlights of your year in running? Please share.

December 12, 2017 by Darlene

Albany Last Run 5K Race Recap

The Albany Last Run was actually my last run of 2017.

This is a very popular local race. In fact, it always sells out (at 1900). The race starts with fireworks and then you run uphill, around the lights in the park and it ends with a downhill.

Here are some pics from a previous year:

One year, I ran this race in the rain. Another year, in a blizzard. Last year, it was cold and windy.

two years ago

I was hoping for better weather this year. But we ended up with SNOW before the race and during!!! Not ideal conditions for RUNNING!

They used to give out windbreakers for this race and I have them in many colors

I normally pick up my bib & shirt beforehand to save time on race night but this year, I was working in NYC the day before so my hubby was nice enough to pick it up.

Of course, I debated about what to wear… I like to look festive. But it was COLD and SNOWING. I hate to overdress but how to stay warm, dry and also be comfortable???

I brought several layers but ended up only wearing two shirts.

photo with the Wineglass ladies

I decided to leave my car at my old place of employment (I hate that crowded parking garage) and walk the mile or so to the race start. I wore an extra coat and boots (that I would ditch before the race) and I was still cold and wet. At least we got to wait inside.

As I mentioned, it is a popular race and I bumped into all sorts of people that I knew– runners from my turkey trot training group, runners from work, runners from tennis and FB friends, etc.

We chatted until it was time to head out. It was fun to see all costumes and how everyone creatively got into the holiday spirit.

Still over 1400 runners braved these conditions.

I lost the Wineglass ladies but found Nancy (from the Freihofer and Troy Turkey trot training groups). We waited outside together. It was still snowing and the predicted dusting was more like several inches of snow.

from the TU last year

Then all of a sudden the fireworks began.

The fireworks were great but we were COLD, getting covered with SNOW and anxious for the race to begin.

About 10 minutes later, it finally did. Nancy is very fast, faster than me. Normally she would have taken off and I would have struggled to keep up. But tonight, no one was moving fast. It was SO SLIPPERY. Runners were barely moving.

The race started with an uphill, went through the city before we entered the park. It was very very crowded at first and usually the crowd thinned out but it never did. Nancy and I stayed together and concentrated on the ground and staying upright.

Mile 1: 12:52

At one point, I asked Nancy what our pace was and she replied 14:xx. And we weren’t walking just not moving fast and weaving around those walking.

courtesy of the Times Union (last year)

Once in the park, the road was still snow-covered and slippery. We hit our second hill and this was the first sign that the city had attempted to salt the road. I would have normally been tempted to walk up the steep hill but we didn’t need to and actually picked up the pace.

Mile 2: 11:03

Yes, that was our fastest pace so far.

from the TU (last year)

So we just resigned ourselves to run slowly, wave to Santa and enjoy the lights.

And I did!! I love this race!!!

I took these pics the other day when I ran through the park

The whole time I was running, I kept looking at the ground trying to avoid cracks and uneven pavement and keeping an eye out for potholes and NOT FALL!! So far so good except hitting several puddles and soaking my shoes.

Finally around mile 3, my hands and feet had warmed up and we decided to run… not fast but just trying to reach the finish line. We joked about trying to sub 40.

obviously this was last year

Eventually we left the park and ran downhill to the finish.

Nancy is in pink to my right

Believe it or not, this was the SNOWIEST part of the course. It was so slippery but we ran anyway.

We crossed the finish line together and then….

DOWN I WENT!!

Yup, I fell crossing the finish line!

I landed on my hand and knee and luckily I hit where there were several layers (Thank you fur knee socks) and only bruised and cut up my knee (I’ve done much worse.)

I cleaned my wound with fresh snow (LOL) and limped indoors to dry off and get warm.

Officially I finished at 35:08 (gun time).

So one of my worst 5k times but such a fun race. Sometimes, you just have to “race fun” if you can’t “race fast.”

So my year of racing has come to an end. 35 races!! Fewer than the 42 that I ran last year but NO INJURIES always means a successful running year!!

Looking forward to an even better 2018.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

Happy Running? How was your weekend? Did you run in a holiday race? Ever fall during a race?

December 5, 2017 by Darlene

HMRRC Winter Series #1 (3M) Race Recap

Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsors FREE races throughout the winter for its members. There are FIVE races and I try to run in most of them.

The course is pretty boring but free is free.

Winter Series #1 in 2011

And it’s like a reunion of all those runners who love to race. I bump into runners that I know from races, training groups, previous jobs, etc.

The food is catered by Bountiful Bread so there is always delicious breads, soups, etc.

FRIENDS + FOOD + FREE = Perfect RACING Conditions

This weekend, they offered distances of 3M and 15K.

Here I am in 2014 – look at all the snow!!

Normally I would have run the 15k and used it as a long run but I ran 6 miles with my friends the day before so I opted for the 3 miler instead. (Plus the speedy ladies usually run the longer distances so I thought I might snag an age group award of a loaf of bread.)

I waited until the morning of to register just in case the weather was bad. But it was great so off I went.

The temps were in the high 20s so I wore tights, two shirts with a vest.

I wore the same outfit as the day before minus the jacket.

I left early to get parking since these races are often crowded and sometimes there are other events going on at UAlbany.

It turned out to be not as crowded as usual.

I immediately bumped into some SRMs, some runners from the STEM group, from the Turkey Trot group, as well as other familiar faces from races. It was great to catch up with everyone.

We stayed indoors until the last second and then made our way outside. I also decided at the last minute to remove my vest and leave it behind.

Both the 3 milers and those running the 15k started together. I lined with some friends, some of whom were doing the 3 and some were running the 15k.

The race is very informal – no bibs, no starting mat, no timing chips, etc. There are also no clocks (until the end) or mile markers and no water stops (maybe for the 15k??)

I just told myself that this was simply a training run and just do it. And if my legs were nt tired from the 6 miles the day before, I could use the race a speed drill.

As I mentioned, the course is very boring but it also has hills. Not steep hills, just a few rolling hills throughout. This year, I have tried to be better about the hills and not walk up all of them. In fact, I didn’t walk at all!!

I ran the whole thing. Not so impressive – it was ONLY 3 miles!!

And I did dress perfectly. I didn’t need my vest. I was warm & even took off my gloves toward the end.

The amazing thing was that I felt better as the race went. No aches and pains. Even NEGATIVE splits! Woo Hoo!

Mile 1 – 9:08 – a steep hill near the start…at least it was short.

Mile 2 – 8:51 – just some slightly rolling hills

Mile 3 – 8:38 – a longish hill right before the end

.03 – 7:49

Finally it was over and I sprinted across the finish line at 26:49.

The only time I ran this race or a 3 miler was in December 2011. My time was 29:21 or I guess this was at least a course PR.

Secretly, my goal was to finish sub 27 minutes. I did so I was happy!

I went inside to warm up and have some soup, bread, cookies, fruit, hot chocolate. Not a bad spread for a free race.

They gave awards for the top 2 in each 10 year age group. I was 4th in my age group. Two of the speedy old ladies did run the shorter distance…Darn! (The winner finished under 23 min. At age 60!) But at least my 2 friends won for 50-59.

Even though I hesitated, I am glad that I ran this race. I plan to run the other Winter Series races too. Maybe again as a speed drill, following a Saturday long run(ish).

After the race, I had to rush home to go shopping and then out to celebrate my mentee’s 28th birthday.

Canvas, Corks and Forks – our annual thing!

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt lifefor

This week I am also joining up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs each week for the Coaches’ Corner linkup

coachescorner

Happy Running! How you are enduring the weather? Cold yet? Did you run this weekend?

November 28, 2017 by Darlene

TOTR: November Report Card

Image result for november is over welcome december

Fall continued with some warm days, some cool days and even some very cold days. A sign that winter is on the way.

Here’s how November worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home. I prefer to run 4 times but sometimes it just doesn’t happen.

I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights and it is now too dark when I get out of work. I did run while in Liverpool for work but not while in Buffalo. (I hope to run while in NYC this week.) My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles.

I ran alone most of the time. But Alyssa was able to accompany me only a few times. It’s definitely more fun running with friends.

: with Alyssa

: with Alyssa & Chris

Since the Turkey Trot running group ran on Tuesdays this year, I could not run with them 😦 Even my work schedule interfered with volunteering to help the STEM runners train for their first 5k.

Long Runs:

Long runs ended with my half marathon being on Nov. 12. Without a long race until March 2018, I still plan to run at least 6 miles on the weekend. I don’t predict double digits until February!

Total Mileage:

I have run 70 miles this month so far. A big decrease over last month (102) but I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. In Las Vegas, I ran the RNR 5k and Half Marathon. The half was my slowest this year but these races were never about time but about the experience and racing in Las Vegas was an amazing experience. I also ran local on Thanksgiving, both the Troy Turkey Trot 10k and 5k. My legs felt strong for the 10k and although it was not a PR, my finish time was faster than last year.

: Las Vegas

Cross Training:

I actually played tennis 4 times indoors. Woo Hoo!!!!

I did NOT go to work out at the gym at all!!!! Not once! Nunca! Jamais! No excuses because I live near a free gym and my tennis club membership this year includes free access to the gym.

I thought I might fit in a yoga class. I did NOT!!

I did walk-occasionally at lunch. Not everyday like I used to. I find it hard to tear myself away from my desk and I have been traveling a lot.

Other News:

I got in additional sightseeing when I was in Las Vegas for the two races.

thoroughly enjoyed my 6 hour tour of Red Rock Canyon

There were also quite a few friend-bonding activities. Can’t have too many of those.

: Mah Jongg Anniversary Dinner

: Tennis Ladies Take on Broadway

As you can tell, running is not my whole life. I think it is important to make time for other things that bring you pleasure….family, friends, food….

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

No other half marathons planned until March.

I have just a few shorter races planned. My racing schedule does slow down during the winter.

This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

12-03-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #1 (3 m or 15k)?
12-09-17 – Albany Last Run 5K
1-01-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #2 (3.5m)
1-14-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #3 (3m or 10K)
1-28-18 – HMRRC Winter Series #4 (3m or 15K)

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her December Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 so I’m sticking with it in 2017!

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt lifefor

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall a B+.

You know, zero gym attendance, skipping lunch time walks and weekly runs. Though I had a lackluster performance in Vegas, I redeemed myself at the Turkey Trot 10K.

This week I am also joining up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs each week for the Coaches’ Corner linkup

coachescorner

Happy Running! How did your November turn out?Anything exciting planned for December?

What grade would you give your running month?

November 21, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update: 11.13.17-11.19.17 & TOTR

Last week –

Monday – My last day in Vegas. I took an early morning walk around the hotel area before my shuttle picked me up to go to the airport
Tuesday – Brrrr.. my body was in shock due to the change in temperature. Plus there was the 3 hour jet lag. Somehow I managed to get up enough energy to play tennis after work.
Wednesday – Off to Buffalo for work. I had planned to run when I got there but set up took too long and it was too late, cold, etc. So I just went out to a late dinner with a co-worker.
Thursday – Again I wanted to squeeze in a run before my long drive home but it was RAINING!!! Ugh…so rest day #4.
Friday – It was cold and windy but I wanted to try out my knuckle lights so I went for a short run on the rail trail before mah jongg.

Saturday – I was itching to get back to running and the Wineglass girls were able to accompany me. I ran with Alyssa and then afterward most of the group went out for breakfast.

Alyssa, Jeri, Jan, Judy and Chris – if they look cold it’s because it was in the 20s

Sunday – I took an early morning train to NYC today. First on the schedule was a reunion lunch with the people whom I went to France with during my junior year of college.