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.

I don’t take any formal vacations during the summer.

But sometimes as they say: “Girls just wanna have fun…”

So I took Monday, Wednesday and Friday off this past week and added some fun activities.

Last Week —

• Sunday – I started the week (as usual) at the gym…

The weather was beautiful (with rain predicted for the next few days) so we planned to spend the day on the lake.

Unfortunately, my hubby has been battling a cold for the last few days and was feeling worse.

So I took advantage of the free time to get some things done — manicure, grocery shopping, library, etc.

When I realized that it may possibly be raining the next two mornings, I decided that I should try to get a run in.

85 degrees and sunny = not a good idea!!

One good thing about the day was that one of sunflower patches was in full bloom and they opened at 5 pm.

So I took a long drive there and yes, it was worth it.

there will be many more visits when the other fields bloom…

• Monday – Every other Monday, I try to go hiking with my running friends.

As it often happens, the forecast was for rain.

And I woke up to rain so I was glad I had run the day before.

When I looked at the radar, there looked like there would be a break in the rain.  My running friend Sherry was game to give it a try.

and yes, we stayed dry. The first trail was really nice although we’d have to cross the brook to finish it and the 2nd was very buggy.

I met a friend after she got out of work to walk.  It was raining (and HUMID) so I suggested that we go to the Y to walk on the track.  We walked 2 miles and it isn’t so bad if you chat the whole time (but boy, was the gym crowded at this time of day!!)

• Tuesday –  I thought it was going to be raining so I didn’t plan to run and went to the gym instead before work.

Well, the humidity had returned but I was ready to run at lunch and then it started to monsoon.

And then a few minutes later, it stopped so off I drove for a run.

the flowers were pretty but holy humidity, Batman!!

• Wednesday – Each August for like 35 years or more, my former teacher friend and I go to breakfast at the race track and then stay and bet on the horses. Occasionally we win $$ but mostly just have fun.

Finally we had a sunny DRY day this week.

today there was a power outage but fortunately races resumed and we even ended the day on a winning note.

• Thursday – It was a struggle but I got up early enough to get my 5 mile run done before work.

the temps were great but it was more HUMID than I expected…

Sorry to be a broken record but every Thursday evening, rain is forecast and my friends and I struggle with the decision to join the trail running group.  Often we bail and then it doesn’t rain.

Only a few of us did go and it rained (but only lightly).

ice cream is always appropriate for evening trail walks

• Friday – One of my running friends participates in an annual knitting retreat on Lake George and two years ago I joined her on the last day.  I ran my 10 mile long run on hills and then spent the afternoon swimming.

This year, it was my rest day so I started by going to the gym and then headed up to Lake George.

Instead of running, we went on a short hike on nearby trails.

Eleonora is also a knitter, runner and fellow Skirt Sports ambassador

Then we spent the rest of the day relaxing by the water

such a beautiful place to hang out, swim, etc. I’m planning to join them again next year

and I rushed home in time to play mah jongg.

• Saturday – Long Run Day! It may have been the weather or the company but today’s 11 mile run felt easy (finally).

it was great catching up with Alyssa whom I haven’t run with in quite awhile.

There were 11 of out there today… it’s great that everyone can join no matter what distance or pace they are running and then we celebrate our achievement at brunch.

• Sunday – If the weather is nice, we’ll go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (12 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday –  run
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday -run
• Thursday – run, trail run/walk
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (12 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday – Dream Running Location
• Friday –  Does Age Matter?

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

Hot and humid the week before and this past week, when I am working from home and so I have more options on when to run, it was 20 degrees cooler with little humidity.

Summer in the NE!

Last Week —

• Sunday –  I never had time to get to the gym last week so today I made myself get up early and go!!

Finally NO rain in the forecast.  It was much cooler as I mentioned above but the sun was shining and so it was perfect boating weather.

top pic shows where the day before an 85 ft tree fell on someone’s boat (no human injuries) and today we did invite friends to join us (so no reading got done).

It is a long drive to the lake so guess what I finished?

beat the grandbaby’s birth by a month 🙂

• Monday – Back to early morning running on the rail trail… and it almost felt like fall..

but I was sweating by the end of the run… and I’m not used to solo runs (even with a podcast) so I quit after 4 miles.

Too nice to sit in the house at lunch and so I planned to walk or run a few more miles… and then it started to rain.

I headed out after work and again it started to rain.

I guess that was a sign that one 4 miler was enough for the day.

• Tuesday – I do enjoy routines – 4 days running (M, W, TH, Sa long) and 3 days at the gym (Tu, F, Su). So today was gym day #2 (first thing in the morning and had to rush home to work).

Then after work I got my DTaP shot (to prepare to meet my granddaughter in a few weeks) and afterward I met my BFF for a walk…

• Wednesday –  Same routine as Monday but I drove to a different section of the rail trail.

perfect running weather – those arm sleeves only lasted for the first few minutes of my 4 miles

• Thursday – Loving this fall-like weather (and my WFH schedule).  Just 3 miles today before work starting from the barn (on the rail trail.)

spotted a rock from Ohio and leftover art from the Pandemic

We decided that the scheduled location for the ARE Thursday trail run was too far away so we organized our own.

We had planned on the Pinebush trails but again thunderstorms had us switch to a closer 3 miler.

• Friday – Rest Day from running but a before work trip to the gym.

Notice my shirt… my current “motivation”

I decided to go work at the office today.  One benefit (besides a printer) is that I pass Starbucks on the way. I was introduced to this last week – Chocolate Cream Cold Brew. Try it if you haven’t!!

❤

Rain on and off ALL day so it was a perfect indoor work day with mah jongg in the evening.

• Saturday – Long Run Day!! 10 miles with friends on the rail trail. It wasn’t easy but it felt way better than last week due to the deceased humidity.

After brunch and a few errands, I was finally able to go see this movie with my running friends:

• Sunday – After the gym, hopefully a relaxing boating day on the lake.

This Coming Week on the Run (13 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike
• Tuesday – run, walk
• Wednesday – DAY OFF –rest day, day at the Saratoga race  track
• Thursday – run, trail run/walk
• Friday – DAY OFF – GYM, rest day, day with a friend in Lake George
• Saturday – Long Run (11 miles)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday –  Favorite FB Photos
• Friday –  Avoiding Fitness Burnout

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races?  Has your weather cooled down? Do you always run on certain days? Have you seen the Barbie movie yet? Starbucks addicts, anyone? 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.

Twice a year (February and July), I take time off from my regular 8-4 job and work for the software company that applicants use to take the NYS Bar Exam.

So that’s what I did this past week.

Last Week —

• Sunday – I headed to the gym first thing in the morning.

After two rainy Sundays in a row, today was perfect.

lots of needed relaxation and reading (Hello Beautiful- any one read it?)

• Monday – I had predicted a crazy work week so I decided to move my 5 miler to this morning… luckily my friend Deirdre agreed to get up early too to run.

too rushed to get a selfie but I did see some more art on the rail trail…

Then I dropped my car off at the dealer and worked a half day.

After lunch, I met my friends Heidi and Sherry for a short hike in Pittsfield, MA…

an impromptu location and we finished the hike before the skies opened up

• Tuesday – Rest Day and day 1 at the Bar Exam.

7AM start

Long.Day.

7PM finish

• Wednesday – Back to my regular job but not working from home… teaching a live class.

Tired from standing all day but needed to get some fresh air and some miles.

At least I had company at UAlbany but it was 90 degrees and it felt torturous…

• Thursday – Day 2 at the Bar Exam with a later start and earlier finish than Tuesday.

I thought I might squeeze in a run first thing but nope I delayed it until after work.  It rained on and off all afternoon but there was brief pause …

my old route as I used to work here… but so so humid!!!!

We hoped that the predicted thunderstorms would hold off so we could get in our weekly trail run/walk. But we were so indecisive about going…

Instead, we bailed and just took a walk and went out to dinner…

It poured before our walk but never rained again the entire evening… we finished off the day with ice cream sandwiches from the cookie truck.

• Friday – Rest Day and similar to to Tuesday (Day 3 at the Bar exam). I did some walking laps around the building but that’s about it…

In the evening I went out to play mah jongg…

• Saturday – Long Run Day!  We started earlier than usual but still it was the hardest one to date… due to extreme humidity. I ran the first 4-5 miles with Barbara, Lisa, Stan and Sherry and then sprinted ahead just to get the 9 miles done before meeting the others for brunch (That was the best part of the run. LOL)

hoping for some cooler weather next weekend

It rained hard off and on the rest of the day… and temps dropped about 20 degrees…

seen in the Walmart parking lot

• Sunday – I plan to return to the gym after a week off and definitely go to the lake with friends.

This Coming Week on the Run (14 Weeks until NYCM)– 

• Monday – run
• Tuesday – GYM, rest day
• Wednesday -run
• Thursday – run, trail run/walk
• Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
• Saturday – Long Run (10 mies)
• Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

• Tuesday –  Favorite IG Pictures
• Friday –  Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races? Does the humidity bother you on your runs? 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.