20 miler done… so I guess it’s taper time…

Two weeks until the big day!!

I hate to whine and complain but this fall has been MISERABLE!!

I’m not talking about the colors but if you only have weekends for leaf peeping, hiking and running, you’re screwed.

And it’s supposed to rain next weekend too!

Last Week –

• Sunday – I was surprised how good I felt after that 20 miler the day before…

I started the day at the gym..

new me = haircut, new capris & tank (on sale)

Then I did some errands, laundry and weeding (yes, the dandelions are still growing).

The weather was so nice that I decided to spend more time outside and went for a hike.

• Monday – My DAY OFF!

I went for a 5 mile run but not as early or as rushed.

it started out chilly but was really a perfect morning for a run

Afterward my running friend and I went on a hike. We chose a new one in Williamstown, MA but when we got there. it started to rain. So we went out to lunch and then returned.

It was still raining so we decided to grin and bear it… Glad we did because the trail was beautiful.

After over 4.5 miles, we returned to that same restaurant for dessert and to warm up and dry off.

• Tuesday – Still in training mode so I have long runs to do mid-week.

I squeezed in a few miles before work

sporting my fall colors…

and a few more at lunch

such creativity in my ‘hood

and finally finished them up after work (8 miles total)

interesting to watch crew teams on the river… otherwise I was dragging by this point.

After dinner, I met my BFF for a long chat/walk at an outside mall..

some pumpkin sculptures there (leftover from the weekend fall festival)

• Wednesday – Rest Day.

I had to teach live and then after work I met a few of my tennis friends out for dinner. (I was supposed to go to the Monet exhibit with them but couldn’t get out of work in time.)

Sorry no pic… too busy chatting and eating (wine, shrimp n grits, dessert).

• Thursday –  Only 4 miles to complete today.  But it was Thursday and the cookie truck was in town that evening.

Because it gets dark so early, I ran on the rail trail, then met my friend for a walk (so we could justify the ice cookie sandwich.)

yes, it was as good as it looks

• Friday – Another Rest Day. And a rainy one.

No time for much since I was hosting mah jongg that evening and worked all day.

Since I hadn’t been at the gym all week, I did go there very early.

• Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Only 12 miles! 

Lots more running friends healthy and in town so that was great!

Not great was the RAIN!!!

I went to the gym instead.

We may have gotten the run done between the rain but it was too iffy.

I did errands… my granddaughter came to visit.

Eventually it did stop running and I got in a walk.

• Sunday – Re-scheduled 12 mile run with my running pals (followed by brunch). I do hate to do a long run on Sunday since it messes up my whole week’s running schedule.

it only drizzled a little (and I’m wearing new shoes – the same ones Jenny bought)

This Coming Week on the Run (2 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  gym, run (PM)
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday -run (PM)
• Thursday – run (PM)
• Friday –  rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (8 miles)
• Sunday – Volunteer at a Trail Race, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – National Food Day
• 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? What day do you do your long runs on? Saturday or Sunday? 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.

If you’ve ever trained for marathon, you know what I’m talking about..

Yup, the 20 mile long run.

Because after you complete it, you are supposedly ready to finish 26.2 miles!?

and you can start your taper…

Last Week –

• Sunday – It was perfect running day. Very happy for those running our local marathon and those running Chicago. Unfortunately I had to suffer through my rainy 14 mile run the day before.

The good news was that I had the whole day free.

First I went to the gym.

Then I was glued to my phone tracking my friends who were running the Chicago marathon. My friend PR’d and BQ’d (by a large margin).

It was too nice a day to stay indoors and so I went for a hike.

And after I finally baked that pie.

’tis the season

• Monday – A day off from work for the Columbus Day holiday… love days like this.

Of course I went for a run (5 miles) and I didn’t have to get up early and rush.

I decided to run somewhere I hadn’t been for a while… I needed a change of scenery.

I had gloves and arm warmers on when I started but they didn’t last long.

I went for  short hike nearby (no pics) and then headed home.

I made pumpkin chili and corn bread… (but back to my normally scheduled program tomorrow so my hubby doesn’t get used to home cooked meals).

• Tuesday – A rest day so I started with a visit to the gym and then after work, I met some friends for a walk at the Y.
• Wednesday – 10 miles on my plan but no way to get it done before work and so I split it up.

I woke up to rain.  What else is new?  Miraculously, it stopped and I headed to the rail trail for 5 miles before work.

I was surprised at how many runners were out there by 7 am and that it was in the 40s and I was OVER DRESSED (no wind and humid made the difference so back to the tank and arm warmers)

and then after work, I ran 2 miles solo and then met Heidi for 3 miles more at UAlbany.

due to decreasing daylight… there were so many groups of runners here.

• Thursday –  Another early morning run. I met Deirdre on the rail trail for 5 miles before work (our last weekday run together as she leaves for Florida soon).

love the sky…

It seems to be a Thursday thing – walk and then eat ice cream sandwiches from the Cookie Truck.

Except that today, I visited with my granddaughter first.

excited to see grandma?

• Friday – Resting up for the next day.

I started the day at the gym and ended it with mah jongg.

For no apparent reason, we lost power all afternoon so I was forced to go to the office.

• Saturday – Long Run Saturday. 20 miles.

I was very lucky to have the support of my running friends and that they took rain out of the forecast.

I ran/walked the first 10 miles with Deirdre, Deb & Heidi and then Deb & Heidi got on their bikes. I ran 7 more with Deirdre and then sprinted 3 back while another friend came to finish up with Deirdre. Phew. Glad that’s over.

After a quick brunch, I headed to my hair appt.

And then in the evening, I drove up to Lake George for a reunion with some boating friends.

at a race in St. Augustine, FL (March 2014).

They moved to Florida and I hadn’t seen them in years.

My other friend still lives in Lake George but she and her hubby sold their boat and I haven’t seen them in years as well.

It was fun catching up… lots of boating memories.

• Sunday – I have plans to return to the gym and maybe a hike if the weather cooperates… or maybe just REST!!

This Coming Week on the Run (3 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  DAY OFF, run, hike
• Tuesday – run
• Wednesday – rest day, dinner with tennis pals
• Thursday – run, hike
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg chez moi
• Saturday – Long Run (12 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Halloween. Yay or Nay?
• Friday – Five Fitness Challenges

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, watch or track the Chicago marathon? Do you run more than 20 miles when you train for a 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.

September was my biggest mile total ever… 130 miles!!

This month finishes up my marathon training. Gulp!

5, 9, 5, 14 for this week…

And though it’s officially Fall, it felt like Summer for a few days.

Last Week –

• Sunday – After many a rainy Sunday, we finally had a sunny day.

First there was a gym visit… it had been quite a while..

happy to back working those hips, abs and arms and admiring all those mums outside the Y

And then we headed up to Lake George. Who knows if this will be our last time this season? I insisted on a BBQ so we actually reserved a site.

picture perfect day.. read a whole book and we made new friends with a couple from NYC

• Monday – I only took the afternoon off from work so I had to squeeze in my 5 mile morning run in my neighborhood.

❤ the early morning moon and the skeletons are back it (a different activity each week)

On my way home from the office, I stopped to wish my granddaughter a Happy 4 Week Birthday.

And then I went back out to finish my miles (I had only run 3 in the morning).

my legs weren’t feeling it but the scenery did look pretty

I chose to run at The Crossings so I could justify a stop at Trader Joes (and I might have bought everything pumpkin. lol)

• Tuesday – Another early morning run but not as rushed and I had Deirdre for company on the rail trail for 6 miles.

The temps hadn’t heated up yet at lunch so I went out for 3 more miles.

those arm sleeves were a mistake. lol

After work, I met my BFF for along walk/chat.

• Wednesday – Rest Day! And a trip to the gym before work.

And my granddaughter turned ONE MONTH today!!

• Thursday – Back out for a run on the rail trail before my dentist appt.

I accompanied Deirdre on 5 miles of her 12.

a little muggy but nice to get out early and if I hadn’t had a dentist appt, I’d be on a train to NYC (as a sub), Phew!

Then after work, I met a running friend for a trail walk.

Thursdays are for ice cream sandwiches

• Friday – Another Rest Day and trip to the gym (back to my 3 day gym routine.)

Also back to playing mah jongg in the evening,

• Saturday – Long Run Saturday. 14 miles! Many of my long run buddies were away or busy and then there was RAIN! (Actually it stopped and threatened to start soon but didn’t… that really pissed me off).

So I made a spontaneous decision to try to get my run done. I ran 4 miles in one direction and back, grabbed some water and then 3 miles in the other direction and back to my car.

dry for 12.5 miles and then the monsoon rains came… I got DRENCHED!!!

Once I dried off and warmed up, I planned on some errands and to bake an apple pie!!

The hubby and I went out to dinner instead.  I ate the most delicious pumpkin cheesecake for dessert.

• Sunday – I had almost signed up for our local half marathon today but I hesitated and then the $100 price stopped me..

it was exactly what I did while training for my 2109 marathon

Instead I plan to go to the gym, cheer/volunteer at the race (track my friends running Chicago) and then go for a hike.

This Coming Week on the Run (4 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  HOLIDAY OFF – run, hike or maybe boating?
• Tuesday – rest day
• Wednesday – run (10 miles)
• Thursday – run, hike
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (20 miles!!!), hair appt.
• Sunday – GYM, boating? (last one)

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Barn to Bridge 5k Race Recap
• Friday – Goals for the Last Quarter of 2023

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? Would you do your long run in the rain or postpone? 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.

Four days in the Finger Lakes area with a half marathon as part of the vacation.

I arrived home late Monday night and had to pack to head to NYC for work.

I returned late Wednesday night and then had to teach live all day on Thursday and Friday…

By Saturday I was ready to collapse but no, I had registered for a 5k….

Plus somehow I needed to get my long run done…

Did I mention that my MIL turned 98 on Friday?

Last Week –

• Sunday – Race recovery day.

With rain in the forecast, we decided to drive to Corning and visit the Museum of Glass. Many of us had never been. We watched a glass blowing demo, visited all the exhibits and shopped in the gift shop.

After lunch, we returned to the house.

Denise and I decided to hit a local winery. I mean, we were in the Finger Lakes region known for grapes and wine. We did some tasting and I bought 2 bottles.

We had so much food in the house that we stayed in and munched.

The rain stopped in time for some toasting and s’more making at the fire pit.

• Monday – We woke up to rain so we packed up our cars and decided to try visiting Watkins Glen. As Seniors, it was free and maybe the rain would stop.

It did and we thoroughly enjoyed the hike and waterfall views.

Afterward we walked into town to have lunch before we hit the road.

• Tuesday – I took an early train to Manhattan, checked into my hotel (near Wall Street) and headed to work.

I just had to check out a lab and afterward returned to my hotel, changed into running clothes (just in case).

had to stop to greet my favorite “little prince”

Since it was raining, my destination was actually the Metropolitan Museum to view the new Manet/Degas exhibit.

It was so well done as it described the tumultuous relationship between two artist friends.

When I was done, I ran through the park in the drizzle to meet up with Cari & Elizabeth for dinner.

CP is always a treat even in the rain, dinner conversation was great and there may been a stop at Crumbl after dinner…

• Wednesday – An early trip to work… then a quick run before checking out of my hotel and heading home.

note the blue sky today!! and when on Wall St you have to see the “bull,” right?

Well, I realized that I wasn’t far from the Brooklyn Bridge so I ran there (among zillions of tourists), ran over and back and then returned to my hotel.

a picture perfect day!!

I took the subway to Penn Sta. where unfortunately I spent several hours since my train was delayed.

When I got home, I needed to go to work to set up for the next day.

• Thursday – A long day of live teaching… but I ended the day with a nearby 4 mile run with a friend.

neither one of us had any zip in our step but we got it done…

• Friday – Today was similar to Thursday except that it rained all day and I declared it a rest day.  I even skipped mah jongg and stayed in and did laundry.

• Saturday – Long Run Saturday… with a 5k in the middle.

Luckily the race didn’t start until 11am and it was nearby.

Plan A: Run 6 miles to the start…Run the 5k race… hang out with friends and grab some refreshments…then run 3 miles back to my car.

However, I woke up to pouring RAIN!! And the forecast was for the rain to continue until at least noon.

I am a wimpy fair weather runner!!

raining again!!

Plan B: Park at the finish, take the shuttle to the start, run the 5k race, grab some refreshments (drop bib and shirt off in my car)… if the rain has stopped, run 4.5 miles out and back.

Plan B did work out fine… eventually the rain slowed to a drizzle and I did fairly well in the race considering my lack of speed work.

I walked around at the Fall Fest (in the mud) collecting freebies but decided to wait on cashing in my free food and drink coupon and return to my car to change out of my wet shirt, shoes and socks.

It was a struggle but back to the rail trail I went… and then rewarded myself at the Fall Fest with some tacos and great music.

Mission accomplished. 12 miles!!

• Sunday – Finally plans to return to the gym and maybe a trip up to the lake if the weather cooperates…

This Coming Week on the Run (5 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  run, PM OFF – hike
• Tuesday – rest day
• Wednesday -run 
• Thursday – run, hike
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (14-16 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Finger Lakes Half Marathon Race 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? Ever squeeze a 5k in the middle of a long run? 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.

Not the best idea to spend a day in NYC and 4 days in the Finger Lakes in the same week… during marathon training.

Well, you only live once, right?

Last Week –

• Sunday – I started the day at the gym.

the machines were empty (just like I like it) and afterward I went for a walk around the track, below were the grunts of a karate tournament…

I was hoping to head to the lake as it was a beautiful fall day.  But the hubby had different ideas as it looked cloudy and chilly up North.

So he went off to play tennis and I did some errands..

After 16 miles the days before, I thought that I may feel tired but I did not so I took advantage of the nice weather and went for a run/walk at a preserve where I hadn’t been in a while.

It was lovely… except that I was overdressed as it was sunny and warm!!

The real reason I picked this location was because there was a Fall Fest going on at the nearby country store.

That was a pumpkin cream cold brew and a freshly baked cider donut… I even bumped into two people that I used to work with at my previous job…

And finally I got to Trader Joe’s on my way home…

• Monday – My college friend and I decided that we needed a day together, just the two of us. She lives in RI and I in upstate NY.  Logistically, NYC seemed best.

I had planned to take an early train to Manhattan and get my run done there before she arrived.

But looking at the rainy forecast, I changed my mind and took a later train to Penn. Sta. and walked to the restaurant in the Village (in the rain) to meet my friend.

We had a lovely French lunch at Cafe Cluny (the name is sentimental from our Paris days).

it was raining so we just kept ordering food until the rain stopped… it was $$$

When the rain let up, we decided to walk along the Hudson R with a detour around Little Island and then onto a poster exhibit at a gallery in Chelsea. (more pics in FB)

93 (subway) posters relating ‘art” to life” – just amazing

We continued our walk along the High Line until we parted at Penn. Sta (as she headed to Grand Central Sta.)

Before I headed home, Cari and I had time for a dinner meet-up.

So not the day I had planned (thanks to the rain) but it’s always a good time in NYC (esp. with friends).

• Tuesday – No time to run before work (besides I was pooped) and so I had to run after work.

struggled through 3 miles at UAlbany – hungry, tired, achy back = Ugly Run!!

Afterward, I met my BFF for a long walk/chat.

• Wednesday – I had to squeeze my run in before work… and after my re-scheduled Flu and COVID vaccines.

I felt great so I met Deirdre for 5.5 miles on the rail trail

had perfect temps for running… even bumped into some turkeys

Because of the vaccine appointment, I didn’t have enough time to get in the whole run so I ran 2.5 miles more in my ‘hood at lunch.

In the evening. I had my monthly dinner out with my tennis friends.

the food was great as was the company

• Thursday – I started off the day at the gym and then scheduled a rest day because I had run 3 days already this week.

Surprisingly I was feeling no after effects from both of my vaccines.

this was yummy…

Since I had to stop off at the office today, I also decided to visit my grandbaby after work.

Afterward, I had to pack for my 4 day race-cation so I skipped my weekly trail/ice cream walk.

• Friday – We left early in three separate cars and drove to the Finger Lakes area.  First we checked into our AirBnB.

Then we went out to lunch in town, scoped out the logistics for the race the next day, picked up our bibs/shirts and planned our carb loading/ relaxing.

Check FB/IG for more pics.

• Saturday – RACE DAY!!  There were 10 of us. Some of us ran the half marathon, some the 10k, some the 5k and even some the 18 miler. The rain held off and we all loved this “small” race. 4 of us even won our age groups.

Check FB/IG for more pics.  Race recap next Tuesday.

We celebrated big time that night!!

• Sunday – Our recovery plans will include some hiking, vineyard exploring, etc… lots of fun.  More details on the WRD next week.

This Coming Week on the Run (6 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  DAY OFF – run, drive home
• Tuesday – train to NYC (for work), run, Manet/Degas exhibit at the Met, meetup with Cari and another friend
• Wednesday -run, train home
• Thursday – rest day, hike
• Friday –  rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – 6m, Fall Fest 5K, 3m (12 mile Long Run)
• Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Why Race-ations?
• 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? Fall-like?  Did you get you flu shot yet?  What about RSV or COVID vaccine? 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.

With 7 more weeks to go… it seems like all I do is run or think about how the F### I am going to fit those miles in…

I was not working from home, Mon, Tues and Wed which made things more difficult and then there was the weather, lack of daylight… OY!

Last Week –

• Sunday – I started the day at the gym. It had been a week since my last visit (and my arms reminded me…)

It looked like rain (though it just drizzled on and off most of the day) and so we decided not to go boating.

Instead, I did laundry, cleaned, went grocery shopping, got my nails done…

And we went to a friend’s house to watch the men’s final of the US Open.

• Monday – The only time to run was after work.. But I sat all day so I was inching to get moving.

It was supposed to be cloudy and rainy but when I was done with work, it was warm, humid and sunny.  I was glad to have Heidi to push me 4 miles on a new trail (that happened to be near where I work.)

I now have a new place to run (if only there a little shade..)

• Tuesday – The same scenario as Tuesday.

I even ordered the same drink at Starbucks… tis the season!

And again after work, it was sunny, warm and humid (feels like 85!!).  Since rain was predicted for the next day, I decided to drive to the Corning bike path and get in some miles.

the plan said 8… I was lucky to run/walk 4!!

• Wednesday – Finally a rest day!! It rained most of the day but stopped by the time I got out of work… I was tempted to run (and Heidi offered to run with me) but found something more rewarding…

favorite part of my week..

• Thursday –  Back working from home which meant I could run BEFORE work…

just me and my podcasts – I was even chilly at first and the sun was blinding me but I warmed up… when I ran uphill with the sun at my back

However, I didn’t get up early enough (or run fast enough) to get 8 miles done.

So I met Deirdre after work to finish the miles (5.5+2.5=8)

finally perfect weather for these tired legs…

before we met Heidi for our trail walk (+ice cream cookie sandwiches).

• Friday – Finally time to hit the gym before work … And a rest day from running with mah jongg in the evening.

• Saturday -Long Run Saturday and 16 miles for me…

I ran 5.5 miles with Barb first and then 3 miles solo after… which left 8 miles in between with friends (the best part, of course).

I got lucky with the weather… a little chilly at first and warm at the end (when the sun came out) but the best running Saturday yet!

I earned that brunch.

Then I had an appt. to get my Senior Flu shot and my COVID vaccine.  I want to be protected (and not pass it on to others!!!!) This was my 7th…

Due to insurance issues, it got postponed until Wednesday morning… Boo!

• Sunday – A recovery morning at the gym and if the weather is nice, I hope to go boating…

If not, maybe a hike or recovery run.

This Coming Week on the Run (7 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  DAY OFF – train to NYC, run, hang out with a college friend, meet up w/Cari, train home
• Tuesday – PM run
• Wednesday –vaccines, AM run, tennis dinner
• Thursday – rest day, hike? and pack for the weekend
• Friday – rest day, drive to Finger Lakes, expo, carb load
• Saturday – Finger Lakes Half Marathon (+5m) = 18 mile Long Run
• Sunday – rest day, recovery hike, etc.

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Fall Racing Plans
• Friday – Racing as a Training Run

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 signs of Fall?  Did you get your flu shot yet?  What about the COVID vaccine? 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.

New Role: wife, stepmom, cat mom, GRANDMA.

And so my training continues despite fitting in time with my new (and first) granddaughter!!

Last Week –

• Sunday – I started the day at the gym while my hubby drove up to the lake. I joined him later for a picture perfect day.

We relaxed in one bay and then drove to another where the annual Christmas Party was happening. Since I had the next day off, I was able to stay late to watch the fireworks and  then drive home.

• Monday – Labor Day!! How appropriate… My daughter-un-law had a scheduled induction at 8 pm the night before and my stepson texted us updates all night long as to her progress (or lack of it.)

Obviously the suspense was killing me so I went for a 3 mile run.

I did jump in excitement of my granddaughter being on the way and although my quads were a little achy and temps very warm, it was great to be outdoors on this end of the rail trail…

And since 1:00 am, we waited and waited and waited…

Finally close to 9 pm, Heather Audrey was born…

• Tuesday – Back to work. I had planned on a rest day but I could have company from Deirdre today so I decided to join her and run 4 miles before work.

It was HOT!! and I thought you’d rather see a pic of my granddaughter than a sweaty selfie..

After work, I couldn’t wait to get to the hospital and hold my baby granddaughter…

• Wednesday – Finally a rest day and gym visit before work. Too hot to do much of anything but work and some after work errands.
• Thursday – Back out there for a pre-work run.

I tried to corral some company but no-takers.  Not surprised it was oppressive even at that early.

only got in 6 miles (instead of 7) but ended with some strides… the rail trail was closed for almost a mile and had to run on the road

The ARE weekly scheduled trail series had ended but I hoped that my running friends and I could continue a trail walk each Thursday evening.

Deirdre was the only one available (or who dared to go out in this heat). We chose the 3 short trails at Bender Melon and then had an ice cream sandwich from the cookie truck.

got in 2 miles in before we quit due to an impending thunderstorm

Yes, we did get a storm and we lost power for several hours (had to read by flashlight).

• Friday – Another gym visit and Just a stop at the office and then mah jongg in the evening.

remember the blanket I knit? ❤

• Saturday – One of my favorite 5ks (Malta 5k/10k Race) took place today.  I’ve run it 7 times and it was so hard not to click the “register” link.

in 2022 getting an AG award

But I refrained and instead ran 15 miles… with the support of my friends followed by a good brunch.

Unfortunately none of my friends would be running 15 miles.  Two agreed to run 12 starting at 7am and three were running 8 miles. That left me deciding when to drag myself through those 3 extra miles. In the end, I ran 10 with Stan and Sherry and ran the last 5 solo with some walk beaks with Deb and Heidi.  We also met Denise, Chris and Jan at brunch.

the temps weren’t bad but OY on the humidity (and the blister formed on my right foot).

Oops I forgot that I had dinner plans with a former co-worker…

recovery raspberry sour

• Sunday – A recovery morning at the gym (did you notice that I hadn’t gone since last Sunday?) and if the weather is nice, I hope to go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (8 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  PM run
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday –PM run 
• Thursday – AM longer run 
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (16 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday –  Long Runs (aka the letter L)
• Friday – Favorite Running-Related Products

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 signs of Fall yet? Do you skip short races when you are training for a long one? 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.

My (amended) training plan called for a 13 mile run so why not run a half marathon?

Of course, I talked my running friends into signing up too. If they couldn’t run it, they volunteered.

The race was hard probably because instead of tapering for the race, I was in the midst (week 9) of training for a full marathon and I had a busy in-person work week..

Anyway I had fun..

at least at the after-party!! LOL

Last Week –

• Sunday – I started the day at the gym. (I thought it might be to be the last time I went this week…)

The weather looked to be cloudy, cool with a chance of showers so we decided not to go on our boat (It turned out to be a nice day… never trust the weather forecast!!)

I was fine with staying home since I had lots to do (laundry, cooking, grocery shopping, etc.)

You know me… I got antsy so I went for a nearby hike.

Five Rivers is always so peaceful…

Then I read on FB that the colored sunflowers had bloomed…and the fields would be closing next weekend.

So after dinner, I took a drive there…

it was crowded but luckily there are 8 acres of flowers… my 3rd and last trip there until next August

• Monday – I got up early and ran 4 miles on the rail trail with Deirdre.

perfect weather for a run… artwork from the Pandemic up still and my cat Mac because I forgot to take a selfie

It rained most of the afternoon but stopped so I was to meet my BFF for a walk in the evening.

• Tuesday – Normally today would be my rest day/gym day but I wouldn’t be able to run Thursday or Friday and there was possibility of rain on Wednesday so I again had to get my run done before work.

I let Deirdre sleep in (LOL) and ran alone.  Instead of the rail trail, I chose a neighborhood in town.

nice to run in a different place with a podcast to keep me sane for 6.5 miles… enjoyed all the flowers but not the insane humidity.

After work, I had my needed hair appt.

• Wednesday – I woke up to rain so I headed to gym and patiently waited for the rain to stop so I could get one more run in this week (before the race).

um yes, I worked out in my running clothes…

It did, the sun came out and of course with it humidity. I parked at the park n ride and ran around a community that I hadn’t been to in ages.

when I started the sky was ominous but then it turned blue… I admit that my legs did not feel like running 3 days in a row… there was a lot of walking on this sweaty run.

The reason I was able to go to the gym AND run before work was that I had to go to the lab after work to set up for the in-person training the next day so I took the morning off from work.

• Thursday – A busy work day. Although I was beat after standing for 8 hours straight, I decided to participate in our evening on the trails because it was the last one and many of my friends were going.

enjoyed the scenery (and company) at Lawson Lake

Afterward, there was a barbecue too.

• Friday – Another busy work day that also turned into a rest day. I even skipped mah jongg to get ready for the race the next day.

#flatme

• Saturday – Run 4 the River Half Marathon!

The logistics were a little crazy. (I met two friends at the park n ride, we drove to the start and then after the race, I needed to get a ride back to my car.)

The weather pretty nice and although I had an upset stomach and went out too fast (as usual), I was still pleased on how it all turned out (faster than last year & 3rd in my age group.)

some of my friends ran the race, some volunteered at the start and others just came to cheer us through the finish line… we all celebrated together with food, beer and great music.

I was very sad to hear about Jimmy Buffet… he was one of my favorite performers. At least I was able to see him in concert several times…

• Sunday – A recovery morning at the gym and if the weather is nice, I hope to go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (9 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  HOLIDAY – day off – run, hike
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday -run 
• Thursday – run 
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (15 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Run 4 The River Half Marathon Race Recap
• Friday – Fall Running 

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? Is a heat wave on the way?  Any “parrot heads”? 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.

I do have a plan.

But during for training for my marathon in 2019, I had a hard time following it.  Those mid-week long runs were almost impossible when traveling for work or the weather didn’t cooperate.

This year, I’ve tried.  I got the miles in but not exactly how it was supposed to be. For example: 3, 5, 3 became 4, 4, 3 and 3, 6, 3 became 4, 6, 2.

I still have a long way to go…. 8, 9, 10 miles on a week day????

But this past week, I actually ran 3, 6, 3 (as the plan said). Woo Hoo!

Last Week —

• Sunday – Not the warmest or sunniest day but still very relaxing and great to get away.

• Monday – DAY OFF from work!!

I got up early and ran 3 miles on the rail trail

too bad when the temps are cooler, the humidity is higher… did another FREE Peleton run – intervals 5:2, 5:2, 4:1, 1:1 or something like that

 and then met my running friends for our hiking adventure.

First we headed to walk among the sunflowers.

only one field at this location but just beautiful.

Afterward we hiked at Huyck Preserve to view some waterfalls and then we walked around the lake

soo muddy but very pretty

After our hike, we had a delicious lunch at the Shell Inn.

Then one last hike to earn our homemade ice cream (at Duck Pond)…

of course, more small waterfalls not pictured at Bozenkill Preserve

• Tuesday – I wasn’t sure if I would run my 6 miles after work or wait until Wed. AM.  It all depended when I’d have company and the weather.

So I started the day at the gym and then decided to postpone my run. I met two friends for a walk instead.

• Wednesday – I got up early enough to get in 6 miles on the rail trail before work.

thumbs up for temps in the 50s…

During this run, I listened to a podcast interview with Susanna Sullivan (who qualified for the World Championships in the marathon) – full-time teacher (9am-5pm), runs 100 miles a week, swims once a day and tutors in the evening.. I guess I can’t complain about not having enough time to do my miles each week.

I missed last month’s tennis ladies meet-up.  But this week, it was held at someone’s home… They relaxed and swam in her pool but I joined them after work for dinner and drinks.

• Thursday – An early 3 mile run. This time my friend Deirdre was able to come…

and then I planned to join my friends for an evening on the trails…

but it was pouring so we went out to dinner instead. Thursdays has not gone well weather wise for this summer trail run series.  (Last one is next week. Finger crossed for dry weather.)

• Friday – Rest Day/Gym morning. Mah jongg in the evening. My typical Friday.

• Saturday – Long Run Day or cut back/taper run. Yes, only 10 miles.

warm and humid but could have been worse… having friends along helped

I was fortunate to have company for most of the 10.5 miles (yup went a little over).  Ran 1.75 with Barb, Stan and Sherry and then ran back and met up with Heidi, Judy & Deirdre for 3.5 more in the opposite direction. Eventually I finished the last 1.5 solo and joined Jan, Denise, Chris & El (pictured) for brunch.

Very fortunate to be part of this group… we discussed our plans for next week’s race.

• Sunday – Gym time and then if the weather is nice, we’ll go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (10 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  run (AM)
• Tuesday – run (AM), hair appt.
• Wednesday – longer run (AM)
• Thursday – ARE trail run/walk (last one)
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Run 4 the River Half Marathon
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – 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? 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.

Yes, sunshine.  And some clouds. Rain was only forecast for my rest days!! (Of course, there were several unpredicted showers too)

Last Week —

• Sunday – On my schedule was a fun 5k that I’ve run the past two years.  But I hadn’t signed up…

I was tempted but I had run 11 miles the day before and so instead I went to the gym.

Finally no rain in the forecast so it was a perfect day for the hubby & I to go boating on the lake.

I relaxed, watched kids jumping off the cliff and read Running While Black – what an awesome book!!

Guess what? It poured but the storm was short and then the sun came out and dried things up.

• Monday – I got up early and met my running friend Deirdre on the rail trail for a 4 mile run before work.

ran 3 miles with intervals and then one on my own

I had planned to walk with a friend after work but when she mentioned that she’d love to see the sunflowers, I didn’t hesitate (despite the hour drive.)

each week a new field blooms… and we even discovered a new place to have ice cream on the way home…

• Tuesday – A rainy day but that was ok with me since all I had planned was a trip to the gym before work.

Then after work, it wasn’t planned but we decided to buy a car rather than repairing my 13 year old car.

• Wednesday – No time to run before work so I ran 6 miles after work. Deirdre met me again (at a different part of the rail trail)..

The rain had stopped which left the air full of moisture… so humid… we wished for more rain!

At noon, NYRR opened up for selecting your transportation to the start, expo time and bag check option. Did all 60k runners log in?? I waited in the queue for about 30 minutes and then picked.  I chose 6:15 am bus.  My other option was the subway to 7:45 am ferry, then a bus. One option seems too early and the other too late.

• Thursday – The gym before work and then a lunch morning run… just 2 miles today.

I thought that the slight breeze would relieve some of the humidity .. nope! 

I also tried one of the FREE Peleton classes… I did half of this one (which was a speed workout).

Finally no thunderstorms predicted for our weekly trail run/walk. Thacher Park was the location and it’s our favorite because we go for dinner after at Maple on the Lake.

muddy in parts but beautiful views… no rain until the drive home after dinner…

• Friday – Rainy morning and  rest day #2.  I headed to the gym before work and then after work, shopped, cleaned the house so I could host mah jongg.

Of course, the sun did come out at lunch when I went outside to weed…

• Saturday – Long Run Day! 12 miles on the plan! I ran the first 8 with Stan & Sherry and then Deidre joined for the last 4. And it rained lightly during most of the run (but it felt good) and the run felt good.

After our runs, Heidi, one of my running friends planned a party at her house (She lives on a lake). Unfortunately the rainy weather kept us indoors so no swimming, kayaking, etc. today. Still it was fun.

Top: not 21 but 12 miles (lol) and cheers to running with friends.

Then I picked up my new car (2021 actually):

• Sunday – The gym first thing and if the weather is nice, we’ll go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (11 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  run, DAY OFF, hiking with friends
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday -AM run, dinner out with tennis friends
• Thursday – run, trail run/walk
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (10 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Favorites of 2023
• Friday –  Runfessions

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races?  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.