Weekly Run Down for 12.24.23-12.31.23: The End of 2023

Well, that went fast…

2023 is dusted.

It wasn’t the best year ever but I am grateful for many things: my health, my family & friends, running/racing, a new granddaughter…

Hopefully 2024 will have as many things to celebrate!

My biggest goal is to HEAL my latest injury and NOT FALL in 2024 (or ever again…)

Since these posts are called Weekly “RUN” Down(s), should I continue to post if I am not running?? (just kidding).

I have to say that when it rains most of the week, I am not as grumpy about not being able to run outside.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – My ankle seemed to hurt more so I iced it and then decided to drive to the gym and just use the upper body, ab, and hip machines.

I limped up to the room with the machines and the fire alarm went off!!

A sign? (Should I just forget it and go home?)

So l limped back to car, went to the library, got my nails done and returned to the gym. (Phew. It hadn’t burned down.)

And after that, I rested my ankle for the rest of the day (I may have also included some cooking, cleaning, etc.)

  • Monday – It was nice to sleep in and have a relaxing cup of coffee

I have share my latest granddaughter picture:

she spent Xmas with her other grandparents

I also took my first post-injury ride on my stationary bike.

Thanks to Netflix… it was a slow 10 miles.. right ankle feels ok but now my left shin is sore. LOL

What does a Jew do for Christmas Day dinner?

Yup, we went out for Chinese food.  My hubby is not fully recovered but was feeling much better.

my meal!! and we shared dessert…

  • Tuesday – A rough night pain-wise but glad to be working from home all day so I could rest the ankle.

It felt better by the end of the day so I went to the gym to use the machines.

  • Wednesday – Compression sock and brace made for a better night.

Still working from home so I was able to try my luck again on my stationary bike at lunch time (on this rainy day.)

6 slow miles with a podcast to keep me company

After work, I went out to a belated birthday dinner for my BFF.

sorry… last year’s pic…her b-day dessert this year was a cannoli

  • Thursday – Off to the gym before work (on another rainy day) and then working from home the rest of the day.

I was able to jump on the stationary bike for a few miles at lunch

tried one of the free Peloton classes… too much talk 😦

After work, my college friends organized a ZOOM call.

so fun staying in touch (after 50 years)

I had rush off after that ZOOM to meet a running friend for dinner/drinks. (Glad to stay connected with my friends even when I can’t run.)

  • Friday – Another dreary rainy day!!  But today I went into the office. On the way, I took advantage and got myself a treat.

In the evening, I went to my weekly mah jongg game. As I mentioned last week, it’s more relaxed when I don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to get my long run done the next day.

  • Saturday – LONG RUN Saturday.  It seems that my ankle pain rears its ugly head at night… so happy to sleep in on this rainy morning.

While my friends ran, I went to the gym and then met them for brunch.

  • Sunday – I plan to spend some time on my stationary bike and start packing for my week in NYC (for work).

Most likely I will stop and visit with my granddaughter since I won’t see her next week.

No exciting plans for New Year’s Eve… just dinner out with the hubby.

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – Friday – My first DNS of 2024 – on New Year’s Day (HMRRC Winter Series #2), then working in Manhattan on Tuesday & Wednesday and in Queens on Thursday & Friday.  I will not be able to run but hopefully I can walk enough to see some of the holiday decorations.

I plan to meet Cari for dinner on Monday and college friends on Thursday for dinner/Broadway show.

(But you know I’d rather be running….)

  • SaturdayLong Run – gym, brunch with running friends
  • Sunday – biking, Granddaughter’s Christening

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – 2023 Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running end? Training for any big or small races in 2024?  How’s the weather where you live? Any big NYE plans? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 12.17.23-12.24.23: Oops, I did again…

Remember how my year began…

Read below and you’ll see how it ended.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – I started the day at the gym and spent some extra time there walking around the track.

We were supposed celebrate the holidays with my stepson &  DIL but my hubby was real sick so we postponed it until the new year.

I got a trail walk done before the rain set in and then spent the rest of the day doing errand/shopping.

  • Monday – Since it was not likely that I would get to the gym until the weekend (due to work), I decided to go again in the morning.

It rained most of the day so I was not able to get my run done at lunch.

chilly and damp but it got done

Luckily I could to squeeze in a run after the rain stopped and before I went out to dinner to celebrate a friend’s B-day.

  • Tuesday – It was supposed to be a rest day but because the rest of the week was so busy with work and it was sunny, I decided get in one more run for the week.

I drove to the rail trail and I was in a rush, lots on my mind, listening to a podcast and then suddenly somehow, I was down on the ground…

Twisted my right ankle (the good one).

I limped back to my car.

Swollen, bruised and very painful… (RICE and tears)

  • Wednesday  – Unfortunately, I had to stand all day (ouch) for my job.

Ankle is still swollen, bruised and painful. (More RICE and tears).

No run with Heidi.

  • Thursday – Unfortunately, I had to stand all day AGAIN for my job.

Ankle is still swollen, bruised and painful. (More RICE and tears).

No run with Heidi.

  • Friday – Unfortunately, I had to stand all day AGAIN for my job.

Ankle is less swollen, less painful but more bruised.

Friday is Mah Jongg night and thankfully, you sit when you play. (One of my friends there has metastasized breast cancer that has spread to her bones and now her lungs – puts it all in perspective so no more whining about my ankle).

  • Saturday – LONG RUN DAY- half marathon in 7 weeks!! And another in 11 weeks!!

NO RUN – Just brunch with my friends after THEY finished running.

just because…

  • Sunday – Plan to hit the gym and use the arm machines…

So they say bad things come in threes:

  1. My cat disappears
  2. My hubby gets very sick
  3. I fall and sprain my ankle

Then I’m done!!

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • NO RUNNING
  • Some upper body work at the gym
  • Some stationary biking at home
  • Xmas dinner out (or with in-laws?)
  • ZOOM with my college friends
  • B-day dinner with my BFF
  • WFH all week so rest the ankle

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Tampa Hot Chocolate 15k Race Recap
  • Friday – Runfessions 

Happy Running! How is your year of running ending? Training for any big or small races this winter?  How’s the weather where you live? Ever sprain your ankle? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

sorry I couldn’t mail this card to all of you!!


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.

Weekly Run Down for 12.10.23-12.17.23: Party Time

Back from my brief race-cation in Florida to holiday party mode.

I hope I can run enough to burn off those calories.

(Kitty update: he’s still AWOL 😦 )

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Tampa Hot Chocolate 15K – no need for hot chocolate after this warm, humid race. Even though it was very close to a PW, I won my age group and had lots of fun.

I’m pretty sure after a delicious brunch, we headed to the hot tub.

Rain canceled our outdoor plans so we spent the evening watching Hallmark movies.

  • Monday – Last day in sunny Florida so I went for a walk/run in the neighborhood

a cold front had come through so it was a little chilly but so much warmer than home..

After packing, we went out to our last lunch and then on the way to the airport, we spent time in Dunedin.

I got to see my friend’s work at DFAC and yes, there was ice cream…

  • Tuesday – A late arrival home the night before so I was pooped but I dragged myself to the gym before work and ran at lunch.

cold and windy… please take me back to Fla!!

  • Wednesday – I had planned to stop at the gym before work and run at lunch again… but a co-worker called in sick so I had to rush to the Training Center.

An unplanned rest day before

Holiday Party #1 – with my tennis friends.. it’s an annual thing with lots of food, Chinese grab bag, laughs and music/singing.

  • Thursday – Back to the Training Center for work with a stop on the way:

it was yummy! (iced creme brulee latte)

and a run after at UAlbany.

  • Friday – Holiday Party #2- at the office and then I had to rush back to the Training Center.

Mah jongg in the evening…

  • Saturday – Started off the day with a long run and the weather was perfect.  Most of my friends were getting ready for the party so I ran 8 miles only with Deb.  We were treated with new artwork on the rail trail.

these pieces replaced the ones from the Pandemic and most had accompanying poetry so beautiful..

Holiday Party #3 – with my running friends… it’s also an annual thing with lots of food, drink and running talk.

  • Sunday – Plan to start the day at the gym and end with dinner at my stepson & DIL’s (holiday party #4) since the hubby is sick, just a visit with my granddaughter.

she loved Santa!

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run, b-day dinner for a friend
  • Tuesday – GYM, rest day
  • Wednesday – run 
  • Thursday – run, walk with BFF
  • Friday –  rest day, mah jongg
  • SaturdayLong Run
  • Sunday – GYM, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Hot Chocolate 15k Race Recap
  • Friday – Goals for 2024

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this winter?  How’s the weather where you live? Do you have a lot of holiday parties? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 12.3.23-12.10.23: Seeking Warmer Temps

I do prefer warmth and sunshine for my runs.

It’s not even winter or that cold yet. But I couldn’t turn down an invitation to run a race in Florida…

Last Week –

  • Sunday – I started the day at the gym as I usually do on Sundays.

It was a damp, cold, rainy day…So glad it was a rest day and that I had a fun indoor activity scheduled for the afternoon.

I joined some friends to see the Monet Interactive exhibit.

I had seen it in Miami a few years ago but each company does it differently and I did enjoy this one too.

After, we went out for a bite to eat.

  • Monday – I wanted to run at lunch (because the temps would be warmer than the morning) but though it was sunny, it was RAINING!!

It stopped so I drove into town…

and it started to pour and I got soaked and then the sun came out… and then it started to pour…. it continued that way all day!

and after work, I met my stepson and his GF out for dinner.

Unfortunately, while I away, my hubby accidentally let one of our cats out when he left to play tennis.

Mac who is NOT an outdoor cat 😦

  • Tuesday – A busy work day so I had to get my run done after work at UAlbany. Happy to have a friend join me

before I met my BFF for a walk/chat in the mall.

  • Wednesday – I woke up to freezing temps and SNOW (and my kitty still gone for the 2nd night)!

Another busy work day so again I had no time to run until after work.  I decided to drive to a neighborhood with lights and then rushed home to  pack.

It SNOWED the entire run but it was kinda nice…

  • Thursday – Kitty still gone (my hubby did see him last night so at least we know he’s alive)…

a lovely sky greeted me…

I hit the gym before work because after work, I had to rush to the airport to catch a flight to Tampa, FL with my friend Heidi.

We arrived late that night and our friend Deirdre picked us up at the airport.

  • Friday & Saturday – It was great to be re-united with Deirdre and Kevin. Check out IG & FB for pics of our pre-race activities.

#flatme ready Fingers crossed for NO RAIN!!

  • SundayHot Chocolate 15k Race. Heidi is running the 10k (Deirdre sprained her ankle in a trail race so has to sit this one out) but I chose the 15k.

I’m sure it will be fun. (More details in the next WRD.)

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – hanging with friends, fly home (fingers crossed that my kitty will be there to greet me)
  • Tuesday – GYM, run
  • Wednesday – run, tennis holiday party
  • Thursday – PM run 
  • Friday –  rest day, work party, mah jongg
  • SaturdayLong Run, Running Group Holiday Party
  • Sunday – GYM, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Bling of 2023
  • Friday – Favorite Fitness Moments of 2023

to those who celebrate

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Any races planning before the end of 2023?  How’s the weather where you live?  Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 11.26.23-12.3.23: Heading into December

I’m not big on the holidays. I don’t have to buy many gifts.  I do some decorating and still send out cards…

But I do enjoy those holiday parties… so I better keep running to be able to eat all the goodies.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – As usual, I started the day at the gym and also walked on the track since I was not in a rush.

guess who’s getting ready for the holidays?

I spent most of the day decorating the house… (more tiring than the gym).

I’m obsessed with snowmen… this year, I added a few gnomes LOL

Then I went for a short hike before the sunset.

Five Rivers never disappoints

  • Monday – DAY OFF so I was able to run and not at the crack of dawn. The forecast was for rain (as always on my Mondays off) but I got lucky and finished my run just before the skies opened up.

not on the rail trail for a change

I took advantage of the postponed hike to make beef stew and then went out for a walk when the rain stopped.

I spent most of the afternoon helping my running friends move. At least 6 hours of going up and down steps as they moved to an apartment upstairs from the one they already owned.

We got rewarded with a nice dinner… and it was fun.

  • Tuesday – Started the day at the gym and then decided to skip the run based on the number of steps I climbed the day before.

I met my BFF for a long walk and chat after work.

  • Wednesday – Since I didn’t run the day before, I had to squeeze my run in at lunch.

those deer were near each other and close to me

In the evening I got together with my tennis friends for a dinner out.

although I don’t miss playing tennis, I do miss my friends so glad we do this every month

  • Thursday – After a late evening, I dragged myself out of  bed to work out at the gym

Then another lunch time run… and it was sunny!!

like my new running partner?

No plans for the evening so I had time after work to visit my granddaughter.

  • Friday – Another early morning trip to the gym… but a rest day from running.

I was hosting mah jongg that evening so that meant “cleaning.”

  • Saturday – Long Run in preparation for the 15k the weekend after.

So lucky to have company for the miles and brunch after.

I woke up to rain!!

But the radar showed that it wouldn’t be raining where we were going.

hooray for a dry (cloudy) run but my friend was only running 7 miles and so I stopped too.

  • Sunday – Gym first thing and then a re-scheduled visit to the Monet Interactive in the afternoon.

I did go to one in Miami several years ago. I LOVE Monet so I can’t wait to see this version.

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – AM run, dinner out with stepson
  • Tuesday – GYM. PM run, walk with BFF
  • Wednesday – PM run, pack
  • Thursday – GYM, fly to Tampa, FL
  • Friday –  hanging out with friends
  • Saturday – hanging out with friends, bib pick up in Tampa
  • Sunday – Hot Chocolate 15k race

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Holiday Gift Guide
  • Friday – Favorite Stocking Stuffers

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races?  How’s the weather where you live? Done decorating for the holidays? Any exciting plans for this last month of 2023? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 11.19.23-11.26.23: Turkey Trotting

It was Thanksgiving week so of course, I ran a Turkey Trot.

It was my first race since the marathon so I was nervous about how it would go.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Another race FOMO day – I’ve run the Upstate Classic all 3 years it has been held.

But I took my mind off of it with a gym visit followed by a short hike.

And then in the evening, my mah jongg friends and I celebrated 15 years of playing together.

unfortunately quite a few could not attend.

  • Monday – Back to my regularly scheduled 3 weekday runs and one long run on the weekend.

If I can, I try to run at lunch (however often, I am working so I have to either run early or in the dark after work)

Today I had time at lunch.

a little chilly but the sun made it feel like a perfect running day

  • Tuesday – Rain in the forecast so I was hoping to get my run in…

I’m still a wimp about running early on these cold mornings (12 degrees, ouch) so I went to the gym instead and then later I ran in the ‘hood.

Brrr…. so cold and nasty and then it started to sleet.

I did some errands and then that evening we had our first snowfall.

the rain the next day melted most of it…

  • Wednesday – Rest day from running so I again hit the gym before work.

It rained most of the day so finally weather-wise, things worked out on my running schedule.

I didn’t have to prepare anything for the Thanksgiving so I went for a walk after work (indoors) and got my #flatmeready for the next day’s race.

same as last year except for the gloves…

  • Thursday – Troy Turkey Trot 10k for the 8th time.

It was warmer than I dressed for and I ran my slowest ever 10k but still came in 3rd in my age group.

As always, I’m glad I signed up and got to hang out with my racing friends.

Afterward, we went to my MIL’s for a family dinner.  No cooking by anyone. She ordered it all from Whole Foods. No complaints since it’s not about eating delicious food (cuz it wasn’t), it’s about family time.

98 years between these two

Thanks to Kim and Cari for coordinating our bloggers who were trotters too collage:

  • Friday – Another rest day and morning at the gym.

he’s very annoying and naughty so luckily he’s cute…

And then there was, as usual, mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – Long Run! 8 miles on my plan (preparing for an upcoming 15k race.)

One of my running friends who is in Florida for the winter was in town so it was fun to run and brunch with her again.

In the evening, the hubby and I went out to dinner to hear a band (Monkberry) I had raved about from after a half marathon I ran back in September.

who is this lady? She was on a bus trip (and got very drunk) and started to talk to me. It turned out that we went to the same high school on Long Island (which is a VERY weird coincidence.)

  • Sunday – Another gym morning with no set plans for the day. Maybe some decorating..

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  AM run, DAY OFF, hike help a friend move
  • Tuesday – GYM, rest day, walk with BFF
  • Wednesday -run, dinner out with the tennis ladies
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg (chez moi)
  • SaturdayLong Run (9 miles)
  • Sunday – GYM, hike, start to pack for my trip

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Troy Turkey Trot 10K Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this fall?  How’s the weather where you live? Did you run a Turkey Trot? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 11.12.23-11.19.23: Building Back

In order to recover from the marathon, I scaled back my runs last week.

But now there’s a 10k and 15k on my schedule.

So it’s time to get serious again.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – As I mentioned last week, today one of my favorite local races was held.  Many friends ran it and of course, I had FOMO.

I didn’t sign up because I didn’t know how I would feel after running a marathon.

Instead I went to the gym and spent a relaxing day on the trails.

happy to find some leaves still on the tress

  • MondayDAY OFF! No rain… a miracle!

Finally I decided to get myself going for a daylight run. I got up early… got dressed.  Looked at the 20 degree temps and WIMPED out.

My running friends and I were planning to hike and so I texted them and they agreed to bundle up and do it.

Phew.  Not training so no need to suffer.

We decided to head to MA and repeat a shortened hike in Williamstown MA that we did in the rain.

Somehow this hike turned into 7 miles as we decided to hike UPHILL through the fallen leaves so we could cross the NYS border (from MA).

we had so much fun that we may go back and continue on into VT. But next time bring water and snacks

Since we didn’t plan such a long and difficult hike, we didn’t get to eat lunch until after 3:30 pm!!

  • Tuesday – Gym first thing and then I was able to sneak in a quick run before sunset after work.

quite a few interesting things seen along the Hudson R.

  • Wednesday – I was teaching live so I was only able to run after work.

Since I was meeting my BFF for dinner and a walk nearby, I ran the UAlbany loop.

happy for the company and the lights

  • Thursday – Back to the gym before work,

 and then a run at lunch on the rail trail.

I didn’t check the temps before I left the house and quickly realized that I was way overdressed

  • Friday – Another rest day and gym morning.

it was so pretty this morning… glad I was up to see it

I decided to go into the office…

it was on the way… no will power!!

On the way home, I stopped to see my granddaughter…

left hip dysplasia – she will be fine in a few weeks (hopefully).

You may have noticed that I have not posted any Heather pics lately.  I prefer to keep my personal life separate from my running blog but I guess she could use a few prayers…

  • Saturday – Long Run!

Creeping up the miles to be prepared for the upcoming 10k and then 15k.

I woke up to rain but luckily it stopped before our meeting time.

I met my friends on the rail trail and we ran 7 miles.  Afterward we met the others (who walked) for brunch.

a beautiful day for a run… the sun even came out (yes, overdressed again!)

In addition to all my Saturday errands, I stopped by to pick up my bib and shirt for my Thanksgiving race.

  • Sunday – Rest Day and gym visit followed by FOMO on this half marathon.  First time I am not running it.

it was freezing last year!!

I do plan some walking, get my nails done and it’s the 15th anniversary for my mah jongg group.  Dinner plans!!

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  run
  • Tuesdayrun
  • Wednesday –GYM, rest day
  • Thursday – Troy Turkey Trot 10K, Thanksgivng dinner with the fam
  • Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
  • SaturdayLong Run
  • Sunday – GYM, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Why I’m Thankful for Running
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this fall?  How’s the weather where you live? Any Thanksgiving race plans? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 11.5.23-11.12.23: A Race to Forget.

The weekend was lots of fun. The race, however, did not go as planned.

It’s not easy to forget but I’m trying.

But I will remember:

  • the amazing crowd support and zillions of spectators calling out my name.
  • my friends near and far who cheered me on
  • meet-ups, food & drinks with friends all weekend long
  • sunny and dry weather all weekend
  • and these inspiring runners:

Last Week –

  • Sunday –  TCS NYC Marathon.

Despite getting up at 4:30am and not starting the race until 11:00 am, things went pretty smoothly.

not as chilly as forecast, met Alexi Pappas and a new and old friend while waiting

I didn’t feel great from the first step but the wheels didn’t totally fall off until around mile 10. I managed to trail some friends who were walking and did cross that finish line around 5:00 pm.

my friends are the best… even with my calves ceasing in pain for the last 16 miles, I managed to walk to the end and smile at times…

The walk out of the park did take forever but eventually I found my friends, walked (over 40 blocks) to my hotel and then enjoyed a lovely dinner.

not sure why we wore those “orange” fleece capes, it was still warm out

  • MondayMarathon Monday.

Of course, I walked back to Central Park since I didn’t get a picture with my medal the night before.  Then I took advantage of the free recovery tools followed by brunch (with Cari) and then drinks with my friends.

those boots felt amazing

Eventually it was time to get to the train station and head home.

  • Tuesday – It’s over… for 18 weeks, all I thought about was the marathon… what do I do now?

With still some DOMS in my quad and calves, I hit the gym before work and only used the arm and hip machines.

And then I went for a walk after work.

  • Wednesday – Rest Day #3 and again a post work walk.
  • Thursday –  With two weeks until a Thanksgiving 10k, I decided to see if my legs could still move. I went out at lunch (too cold before work and too dark after.)  My legs felt great!!! But now I have to remember how to dress when it’s breezy and cold.

3 easy miles in the ‘hood

I contacted my chiro as soon as I got home on Monday and I made an appt for today.  By this point, of course, my body felt normal.  She agreed and found nothing wrong.

After, since it was dark and cold, I walked around UAlbany with my running friend

and then we bought our last ice cream cookie sandwiches of the year.

  • Friday – Another rest day and gym morning.

I played Mah Jongg in the evening with no stress to leave early due to a long run the next day.

  • Saturday – Long Run!

Can it still be called that if it isn’t long or just an excuse to see my running friends and then have brunch together?

We met at the Corning Bike Path and five of us ran 5 miles… the legs felt fine but I didn’t push it.

Got my running mojo back… I felt like I could run forever….

With ten of us for brunch, I’m sure we spent more time chatting than running.

Then it was time to catch on all the stuff I didn’t do last weekend.

  • Sunday – One of my favorite 15k races takes place today… Four years ago, I was able to run this race right after my marathon.

But this time, I didn’t sign up…

Did I know how the race was going to turn out??

A lot of my racing friends are going to be there and I definitely have FOMO.

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  AM run, DAY OFF, hike
  • Tuesday – GYM, rest day
  • Wednesday -PM run 
  • Thursday – run, hike
  • Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
  • SaturdayLong Run
  • Sunday – GYM, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – TCS NYC Marathon Race Recap
  • Friday – Holiday Gift Guide

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this fall?  How’s the weather where you live? How do you feel after a big race? what if it didn’t go well? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 10.29.23-11.5.23: Marathon Week!!!!!

After 18 weeks of training, race day arrived.

I’ll leave you in suspense in this post but if you follow me on FB or IG, tonight you’ll know whether or not I finished my second NYC Marathon.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – It was crazy how the weather changed.. It was 80 degrees on Friday and then 40s today.

I wimped out on volunteering at our local trail race.  I did last year and had so much fun.

But I was trying to bubble wrap myself until after the marathon (and there was some family stuff.)

So instead, I went to the gym first thing.  Since I was not rushed, I walked a zillion (felt like it) laps on the track.

an appropriate shirt, right?

And then I spent the rest of this rainy cold day running errands and getting stuff done around the house.

  • Monday – Day Off which means that it rains.

Yup.  It was raining and so instead of a run, I planned to go to the gym.

I got dressed and it seemed to be only drizzling so I changed my clothes and drove to the rail trail to try and get my 4 mile run done.

It really wasn’t bad and I’m glad I got it out of the way… it rained the whole time but it’s only water, right?

My running friend and I were supposed to go hiking but it didn’t seem like a great idea and it started to rain even harder with no end in sight.

Instead I spent some time with my granddaughter…

she’s getting so big!

With it still raining, I walked around the mall for a few hours with a friend (you gotta get those steps in…)

  • Tuesday – Brrr.  I don’t like this change in the weather. It was cold enough to snow. So I decided to head to the gym and postponed my run to at least when the sun came out.

I still had to drag out the capris, hat and gloves to get this 3 mile run done at lunchtime.

what’s with ALL the skeletons this year?

After work, I had to man the house and give out candy (The hubby was playing tennis).

You knew this was coming. LOL

  • Wednesday – Was that snow flurries I saw? Yup!!

It was a rest day anyway so I again went to the gym before work.

The parking lot at the Y is always full but everyone is either on the treadmills, in the spin or yoga class, in the pool or playing pickleball.

so just me and the machines ❤

And after work, I met my BFF for walk in the mall (getting too chilly for those outdoor walks).

  • Thursday –  To makeup for last week, I’ve been going to the gym every morning (besides it was in the 20s this morning…)

Today, I spent some time at the office so that meant I passed by Starbucks

it’s red cup time (already!!) and free samples!!

and then the last run before the big day!!

I ran at lunch so I could join my friend virtually (she was running her virtual marathon in FL.)

it was still in the 40s but the sun (and my hat) made all the difference: NYC here I come!!

After work, I decided to catch one last glimpse of the foliage at Thacher Park before all the leaves disappeared

Even past peak and at dusk, it was breathtaking…

and on the way home, I stopped to get my weekly ice sandwich from the cookie truck (never too cold for ice cream).

next week will be the last time 😦

  • Friday – A quick trip to the gym before work and then packing and mah jongg in the evening.
  • Saturday – I took an early train to NYC with some running friends. I checked into my hotel, had lunch and then headed to the expo.

I hung out in the city, met up with some other friends and eventually carb loaded for dinner before nervously getting ready for my bus from NYPL to Staten Island the next morning.

plus lots of throwaways to stay warm for 5 hours waiting at the start

  • SundayRace Day!!

 You’ll have to wait for more details in my recap.

Here’s the plan for the day:

4:30 am wake up. 6:15 am bus. 10:55 am race start, 26.2 miles, xx:xx pm race finish. LONG walk out of the park and back to hotel. Hot Shower. 7:30 pm celebratory dinner, watch the last runners on TV at the hotel bar.

Wish me luck!!

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday –  recover in NYC, meet up Cari, train home
  • Tuesday – GYM, rest day
  • Wednesday -run 
  • Thursday – run, hike
  • Friday –  rest day, mah jongg
  • SaturdayLong Run (or walk)
  • Sunday – GYM, hike (or Stockeade-a-thon 15k)

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Walk DownMemory Lane
  • Friday – Running Safety Tips

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this fall?  How’s the weather where you live? Did you give out a lot of candy on Halloween?  Did you dress up for your run? Anyone running or spectating the NYC marathon? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.

Weekly Run Down for 10.22.23-10.29.23: The Countdown is on…

“The hay is in the barn,” as they say..

Good thing because this was a very busy work week. Two days of live teaching (that means standing ALL DAY!)

ONE WEEK TO GO!!! Time to start weather stalking?

so far so good…

Last Week –

  • Sunday – My 12 mile long run was postponed one day due to rain. Luckily my friends were still available to accompany me on the run and after at brunch.

pretty colors on the path for this cool breezy run

  • Monday – Running long the day before messes up my schedule for the week (that and work).

So I skipped the morning run and went to the gym instead.

Then I decided to do a few miles at lunch.

chilly with the wind but then warm when the wind stopped… I will never be dressed right… and that cat (not mine) just laid down at my feet and demanded to be pet.

Knowing that the week would get busy, I opted to go out again after work to get my long mid-week run done. (6 miles for the win in my Marathon shoes!)

the other end of the rail trail.. the creek was really flowing

  • Tuesday – A little tired so I waited until after work to do my run. But I did go to the gym on this chilly (30s) morning.

beautiful sky.. the picture doesn’t do it justice.

After work, I headed for 3 miles to the opposite end of the rail trail from yesterday. Gotta mix things up (esp. when you are solo.)

can you spot the deer?

  • Wednesday – After 3 days in a row of running, I needed a rest day.

I made a quick pre-work visit to the gym (since I wouldn’t getting there until next week.)

Since the temps have been warming up, I did get out for a post-work walk.

Pumpkin Frosty -thumbs up. Thanks Lisa @techchickadventures for the tip.

  • Thursday –  A tiring work day but I did drag myself out for my last run of the week.

felt like summer but still looked like fall along the Hudson R.

  • Friday – Another tiring work day but at least it was a rest day.

cat life…

So only mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – Long Run Saturday. 8 miles! No sweat!

A few of my friends were running their virtual NYC marathon (so they could run the real thing next November).

I met them for first part of their 26.2.

a little warm… very strange weather for this time of year.

Then we met some others for brunch.

I went home and showered and headed back out to greet them at the end of their marathon.

  • Sunday – Gym and then planning on a hike if it doesn’t rain.

This Coming Week on the Run (1 Week until NYCM)– 

  • Monday –  AM run, DAY OFF, hike
  • Tuesday – GYM, run (PM) HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
  • Wednesday –GYM, rest day
  • Thursday – PM run, hike
  • Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day, train to NYC, expo, carb load
  • Sunday – MARATHON DAY!!!!

the upper level of the bridge (where I’ll be starting)

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Goals for Marathon #2
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races this fall?  How’s the weather where you live? Any marathon nerves out there? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


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.