weekly run down

by

Weekly Run Down for 10.19.25-10.26.25: Back At It!

Rest was over and I ran TWO races yesterday!!

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Started the day with a major running shoe declutter… it was hard to get rid of shoes with lots of miles and memories but 4 bags were either donated or thrown away!!

Then I went to gym…

With rain predicted for the next day, I took off to get some fresh air…

unfortunately this preserve was closed for duck hunting but I did find a path

  • Monday – Yup, rain in the morning but it did end eventually and I was able to get in a run at lunch in the ‘hood (so I thought)

started out in the sun and quickly a thunderstorm came in and drenched me…

and even after work pickleball got cancelled 😦

  • Tuesday – I met my friend Jenny before work for some quick miles on the track.

getting our 200m drills done…

In the afternoon, I had to set up for class the next day and then head to a needed hair appt (which included a stop at TJ’s.)

  • Wednesday – Teaching live today so no time for any early morning activities (unless you call my Starbucks stop an activity?) and it was raining. Lucky me!

After work, I attended week 7 of our STEM group.

25 minutes of straight running

  • Thursday – Back to WFH and another early morning with Jenny… Unfortunately I thought the clock said 5:30 am and it was 6:30… so I was late for our meet-up.

changed up our intervals and had to run faster than planned due to my late arrival

After work, I met my BFF for mall walk. Rain again but so lucky to have run before work.

  • Friday – I hadn’t gone to the gym since Sunday so it was time…

I picked up my bib/shirt for Saturday’s PM 5k.

included some local brewed cider

and then mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – I started the day at the Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k. It was held at the school where I had taught French for many years and was dedicated to Carlo (Spanish teacher, track coach, outstanding runner and friend) who had died last fall.  I knew nothing about the race besides that I wanted to support the school and his memory.

To my surprise, it was held on the cross country course… UGH! A hilly one!!! Two loops!

But I saw so many familiar faces and I remained upright so all is well.

channeling my French teacher roots with my outfit

Before this race was announced, I had registered for a Halloween-themed race in the park –Trick and Trot Pumpkin 5k. It was to start at 3:45 and looked to be a lot of fun.

Though my legs were tired, at least it was road race…with some hills in the mix on another 2 loop course..

So many creative costumes and lots of enthusiasm and support.  Even though it  my slowest 5k this year, I did win my age group.

bumped into an old friend and made 2 new friends…

  • Sunday – Recovery day with a gym visit and a hike/walk.

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike, pickleball
  • Tuesday – gym, walk
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run, ZOOM Stem board mtg.
  • Friday – trick or treating with my granddaughter
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch, dinner at my SIL’s
  • Sunday – train to NYC to spectate at the NYC Marathon!!

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – NYC Marathon as a Spectator
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall where you live?  Run any Halloween-themed races? Two races in one day? 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 10.10.25-10.19:25: Recovery Time…

Races three weekends in a row and a trip to NYC and Lake Placid…

I was ready to rest and recover…

Last Week –

  • Saturday – Race-Cation Day 2: Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon.

In the end, only 3 of us ran the race and the others came to cheer at the finish line.

Although it started out chilly, it warmed up nicely. The course was HILLY. I mean very hilly but it kept me slow as I walked up the hills and sprinted down them. I actually never felt tired or sore and thoroughly enjoyed the scenery. I even won my age group.

After, we had a nice lunch, soaked in the hot tub and went out to a celebratory dinner in town.

We came home and make smores in our outdoor fire pit. (Many more pics on FB or IG).

  • Sunday – I was very happy that NOTHING hurt. After breakfast, we drove into town and walked a loop around Mirror Lake with some stops along the way.

as you can see, another perfect weather day…

We came back home for lunch and then went to High Falls Gorge…

lot of stairs and waterfalls and we had time to also walk the nature trail

Afterward, more time in the hot tub and then out to a delicious dinner.

  • Monday – Sadly we had to head home… Heavy rain was forecast and so we left early.

After unpacking and laundry, I headed out to do some errands and to walk in the mall.

  • Tuesday – WFH every day until next week…

I started the day with a visit to the gym. At lunch, I went out for a short run…

and then after work, I visited my PT since they offered Normatec boots to anyone who ran a race this past weekend.

my legs felt amazing afterward!!

  • Wednesday – I was supposed to go the Week 7 of the STEM group after work but I got asked to babysit my granddaughter after work.  Couldn’t say No!!

So I ran instead with my friend Jenny before work. We did run/walk intervals for about 5 miles and then walked 2 miles…

skies like this make it worth getting up early

Three hours with a 2-year old is exhausting.

sticker fun…

  • Thursday – Another early morning run with Jenny. Today we ran on the rail trail (after she had already done 5 miles)

can’t wait until we turn the clocks back for these early morning runs…

and then I attended our monthly tennis dinner in the evening.

smaller group than usual but great to catch up…

  • Friday – Early morning visit to the gym and after work a quick visit to where I went to my local college (50 year reunion!!) and then on to mah jongg.
  • Saturday – Next big race is the Stockade-athon on Nov 9 (a 15k). So today I only had to run 7 miles. Deb and I carpooled and I ran 4 solo miles followed by 3 more with Heidi & Deb. Afterward we joined the other 5 for brunch.

beautiful morning for a run

Since it was my college reunion weekend, after brunch I met up with my friends…

beautiful views at Thacher Park

  • Sunday –  Gym visit, then ???

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run, pickleball
  • Tuesday – gym, hair appt.
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k and Trick and Trot 5k
  • Sunday – gym, hike?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon Race Recap
  • Friday – What I Like About Running Where I Live

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 10.5.25-10.10.25: Race-Cation Time!!

A year in the planning but it is finally here!!

4 days, 3 nights, with my running friends in Lake Placid, NY.

A half marathon is planned with lots of laughter and memories included during our non-running time.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – I was scheduled to sub for worker in NYC on Monday so I took advantage and got an early train today.

I left my bag at my hotel and headed to Rockefeller Center. I had scored free tickets to the Dun Dun Dinner.  It was fun if you are a Law and Order SVU fan.  Lots of freebies including breakfast.

Hardly any wait at all so I had time before the Broadway show to walk back to my hotel and check in.

The show was great and afterward, I hopped the subway in order to meet my NYC buddies for dinner (Cari & Elizabeth).

  • Monday – An early subway and work all day in Jamaica Queens then the subway back to Manhattan to return home.

I took a later train than usual so I could get a ride home from my hubby (who was playing tennis).

As a result, I had time for a quick stop at Grand Central Station to catch a peek of the Dear New York exhibit (I had to rush so no pics from me).

For the first time in living memory, every advertisement  in Grand Central has been cleared. They have been replaced by “Dear New York,” an art installation from the creator of Humans of New York, Brandon Stanton. More than 150 digital screens now showcase portraits from his archive, 50-foot projections of New Yorkers and their stories. Down in the subway, the walls have been transformed into gallery space.

Back to Penn Sta. to get my train home.

Bye. Bye. Not sure when I’ll be back...

  • Tuesday – I hadn’t run since Saturday so I was glad when my friend Jenny asked to run with her this morning before work.

awesome view of the moon and sunrise… even some fall foliage

We ran speed intervals and it was one of my better efforts… thanks to the weather and the company.

After work, I met my BFF for our usual outside mall walk.

  • Wednesday – Finally a visit to the gym before work. And it was pouring (so perfect timing).

After work I stopped by to see my granddaughter

reading a book to me…

and then headed to week 5 of the STEM training session. Fortunately the rain had stopped but the temps had dropped since yesterday…

up to 8 minutes of straight running

  • Thursday – I thought about a quick morning run in the ‘hood  but decided to instead rest up for my race and then spent the evening packing and weather tracking.

fall has arrived!!

  • Friday – DAY OFF – Day 1 of the Race-Cation. We carpooled and stopped for lunch in Wilmington followed by a drive up to the top of Whiteface Mountain.

note how perfect the weather was…

Then we drove to Lake Placid where we checked into our gorgeous, specious VRBO rental.

Other activities for the day included picking up our bibs/shirts, checking out the race course and carb loading…

  • Saturday – Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon

more details in next week’s WRD but check out FB & IG for pics…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Sunday – post race activities in Lake Placid
  • Monday – drive home
  • Tuesday – gym, run
  • Wednesday – run, STEM mentor run, babysit
  • Thursday – run, dinner out w/tennis friends
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch, 50th college reunion activities
  • Sunday – gym, hike?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Barn to Bridge 5k Race Recap
  • Friday – Common Running Mistakes

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall where you live? Do you enjoy the taper? Any race-cations planned?  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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 9.28.25-10.5.25: Tapering/Racing…

Yes, I was tapering since my half marathon is this coming Saturday.

But I managed to squeeze in a 5k race during that taper run.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – It actually felt like summer today so after a trip to the gym, we headed up to the lake.  My hubby even invited a tennis friend to join us.

a book, hard cider and great views…

Since this was probably my last trip this season, I insisted on a stop for Martha’s ice cream.

an old pic from several years ago

  • Monday – Another beautiful day on tap and I actually ran before work…

It was Jenny’s rest day so I was solo.. loved visiting the horses

After work, I had my pickleball lesson /play and then I stopped by my MIL’s since today was her actual 100 year old birthday!!

  • Tuesday – I had plans to meet a friend to run before work.  She cancelled and I was so tempted to bail but I didn’t…

a little chilly at first but actually the weather was perfect and I spotted Barb on the run…

After work, I went for a walk with a former co-worker…

  • Wednesday – Back to the gym for the first time this week..

After work I attended week 4 of the STEM group training.

Hooray… we had 4 runners today!!

  • Thursday – Rest day! No gym. No run. No pickleball.

But the weather was so nice that I went for an unplanned walk after work.

unfortunately due to our dry summer, many leaves down but little color…

  • Friday – DAY OFF – A hike with Heidi and our new BHFs Priscilla and Emilee. They chose a hike in Cooperstown (Glimmerglass Lake) and our lunch spot (Origins).  Both were perfect.

I rushed home since tonight I was hosting mah jongg.

  • Saturday – Barn to Bridge 5k.

I parked so that I had to run to the start (5 miles) and that would add more miles to my day.

Then I ran the 5k race, perused the booths, had food and drink, listened to the band and enjoyed the summer-like weather…

Eventually I had to get back to my car. A slow 2.5 miles run (mostly walk).

Long taper run complete!? 10.5 miles.

  • Sunday – An early train to NYC for a work trip. Some fun things planned once I arrive (as mentioned in my UCD post).

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – work in Jamaica, Queens, train home
  • Tuesday – run, walk w/BFF
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run, pack
  • Friday – OFF – drive to Lake Placid, pre-race activities
  • Saturday – Lake Placid Half Marathon
  • Sunday – post race activities

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – 3rd Quarter Update
  • Friday – Tips for Running in Different Weather Conditions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall where you live? Do you enjoy the taper? Any race-cations planned?  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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 9.21.25-9.28.25: Back to Racing/Training

I ran a fun 10k yesterday so I could call it a “training” run for my half marathon.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Couldn’t pass up this awesome fall weather so after a visit to the gym, the hubby & I headed up to the lake.

  • Monday – WFH except for Wednesday.  We were getting new windows installed so I wasn’t able to do anything before work but I did sneak out at lunch for a run.

like last week, again I didn’t realize how much it had warmed up from the morning

Then after work, I had a pickleball lesson.

I’m getting better so it’s just that I’m playing with beginners?

  • Tuesday – Finally I got up early to do my run and it was so much nicer to run before work.

Jenny was there doing her speed drills (as she trains for MCM) and I did my 200m repeats and then we walked together after…

  • Wednesday – Live teaching today…

I pass Starbucks on my way so…

and then in the evening it was week 3 of STEM group mentoring. It had rained most of the day but it stopped right before our run!!

one runner and many mentors. sigh

  • Thursday – Since my live class got cancelled, I decided to take the day off.

I had plans to go running with Jenny, go for a hike/walk…

It POURED ALL DAY!

I instead went to the gym, did some errands and walked in circles around the mall.

I also had dinner plans with some running friends but had to cancel due to a ZOOM STEM board meeting (to which most members didn’t show!!)

An all-around crappy day!

  • Friday – WFH and a beautiful weather day!!!!! Of course.

I did nada except play mah jongg in the evening.

  • Saturday – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k. 

I’ve run this race many times. The last time I ran it, I chose the 5k but I went back to the more challenging 10k today.

The weather was perfect and the course scenic (though the last 3 miles were hilly).

2nd in my AG (out of 2 LOL)

After the race, I drove back to Zim Smith ran a few more miles and met up with friends who were training for NYCM.

In the afternoon, I volunteered at our local library book sale.

  • Sunday – A gym visit is planned and then up to the lake today (weather permitting)…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run, pickleball
  • Tuesday – gym, walk
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – OFF – hiking, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Barn to Bridge 5k (+ more miles)
  • Sunday – train to NYC (for work), some fun NYC activities

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Q3 Update
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall where you live? Do you play pickleball?  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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 8.14.25-9.21.25: Training for #75

On October 11, hopefully I will be finishing my 75th half marathon.

If you follow this blog, you know that there have been quite a few hiccups in my training.

But this week, I was healthy (aside from the side effects of my flu & COVID shots) and had no race planned.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – After a late night, the weather was too nice to stay home. So we spent the day on the lake.

docked on Red Rock island, reading a book (Atmosphere) and drinking a beer.

  • Monday – Both my running friend Heidi and I had the day off to go hiking. We decided on Vroman’s Nose. In the parking lot, we met Priscilla and Emilee and became instant BHFs.

We hiked the loop and then went out for a delicious lunch.

After lunch, we did a short hike at Landis Arboretum.

And on the way home, we stopped for homemade ice cream.

The second hike was rushed because I had a pickleball lesson scheduled for 4:30 pm.

a few of us were in the last session so we just played.

I ended the day with my flu and COVID vaccines.  (So happy to be protected.)

  • Tuesday – Too lazy busy to go to the gym but I did get in a short run in during lunch

I lasted about a mile due to a headache and sore arm (Vaccines!!)

and after work, I had a much needed hair appt. and visit to TJ’s (Don’t ask me how many pumpkin-related items I bought.).

  • Wednesday – WFH all this week.

After work, I went to week 2 of my STEM mentor group run.  I got there a little early in order to add in a mile before the rest of the group arrived.

there are 2 locations –  my group is rather small (1 runner, 4 mentors tonight)

  • Thursday – I finally got up early to go for a run. It had been a while.

listened to an AMR podcast which made the run a little easier…

After work,  I finally had time to visit with my granddaughter (the main reason for the pre-work run.)

she’s getting sooo big and enjoys being outside

  • Friday – An early morning trip to the gym.  That had been awhile too.

I went to the office for a bit…

Iced pumpkin spice latte. Did you notice my manicure (got it yesterday)…

And then in the evening I went to play mah jongg.

  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch. After a 5k and 10k on the previous Saturdays, I needed to run longer in order to be ready to run 13.1 in 3 weeks.

I was glad to have some company.., I had to run some miles solo and then Sherry and Deirdre (who are training for NYCM) joined me for some… in the end I got 11 miles done and then we went out for brunch (with Stan and Kevin.).

it was chilly at first but those arm sleeves didn’t last long..

In the evening, I had dinner with some tennis friends (one is leaving for Florida where she winters…)

  • Sunday – A gym visit is planned and then up to the lake today (weather permitting)…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – run, pickleball
  • Tuesday – gym, walk w/BFF
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run, Zoom STEM bd mtg
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10k (+ more miles), 50th college reunion activities
  • Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – My Summer in Photos (pt 2)
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Does it feel like fall where you live? Do you play pickleball?  Have you gotten you COVID vaccine yet? 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 9.7.25-9.14.25: Racing in NYC!!

Another race is no surprise… Three weekends in a row!!

This time it was a 10k and on Governor’s Island in NYC. You know how I love NYC.

Last Week –

  • Sunday – The weather wasn’t that great (and my hubby wanted to watch the US Open men’s final) so we didn’t head up to the lake.

Instead I went to the gym and asked my running friend Deb to teach me how to dead lift… she taught me form and I just worked with free weights (not ready for the big time yet which starts at  65 lbs).

Deb demonstrating what to do

Afterward, I went to a former co-worker’s consignment shop party (where I did some retail therapy).

and finally I met a tennis friend at a restaurant to watch the US Open.

  • Monday – I started the day with a run with my running friend Deirdre.

in the 40s but felt great

After WFH, I had my first group mentor run with the STEM (Wednesday is my normal volunteer day).

unfortunately there were twice as many mentors as runners… hope we get more!

  • Tuesday – WFH all week and a run at UAlbany

another tough one… too warm and I prefer morning runs

before I met my BFF for a walk.

  • Wednesday – I hit the gym before work because in the evening I was going to the movies with a former co-worker.
Downton Abbey 3: A new era dawns in 2025

so good!!! Sad that this is the end!!

  • Thursday – Always a sad day. I remember that day so vividly…

Too busy in the morning so I squeezed my run in after work with a running friend and then went out for pizza.

lots of signs on the rail trail for this upcoming 5k

  • Friday – Early train to NYC. After checking into my hotel, I bopped around the city checking off sights on my to-do list.

My first stop was the 9-11 Memorial.

bottom left is the survivor’s tree

Next I wandered over to the Hudson River and discovered the newly renovated Battery City and Rockefeller Parks.

many more metal sculpture pics on IG and FB

It was Feast of San Gennaro so I walked to Little Italy.

had a nice lunch and discovered a new art exhibit…

Time to head uptown and meet Cari at the Met. I had wanted to see the rooftop garden before it closed. I took the subway partially and then walked (30 blocks) down Fifth Avenue.

We wandered around the museum and then walked to the East River and of course, we ended out visit with gelato.

Yes, way too many miles on the legs the day before a race.  But it’s NYC!!

  • Saturday – Squirrel Stampede 10k on Governor’s Island.

An early morning subway ride to get the ferry to Governor’s Island. I arrived a little after 7 and caught the 7:30am ferry.  I arrived way too early but walked around, chatted with many runners waiting for the race to begin at 9am.

I loved the course though one loop would have been more fun and if it weren’t so darn sunny and humid.

I finished (even won my age group), grabbed my bagel and headed back on the ferry.

I took the subway and rushed back to my hotel, changed clothes in order to meet some college friends for a quick lunch and then to see a Broadway show.

we became friends when we studied together in France (hence a French show)…

I had cancelled my train ticket and booked a later bus so I could join them for dinner after the show.

Coincidentally, I sat on the bus next to a girl visiting from Paris (she was on her way to Montreal). .. We spoke French the whole ride 🙂

A LONG day but no regrets…

  • Sunday – After a late night, a gym visit is planned and then up to the lake today (weather permitting)…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – Day Off – hike, pickleball, covid & flu shots
  • Tuesday – run, hair appt
  • Wednesday – STEM mentor run
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run and Brunch
  • Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Squirrel Stampede 10k Race Recap
  • Friday – Reasons to Run with a Group

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Do you like 10ks? Does it feel like fall where you live? Are you a Downton Abbey fan? 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 8:31.25-9.7.25: Feeling Fall-Like…

Sunrise later in the morning and sunset earlier every day.

Fall is on its way.

You could even feel a chill in the air (Perfect for running.)

Pumpkin everything is on sale and dying flowers could be replaced by fall decorations and mums.

I haven’t started decorating for fall yet but I couldn’t resist buying this blanket!

The week started out poorly but improved…

Last Week –

  • Sunday – After another poor night of sleep, I dragged myself to the gym… (Last week’s WRD explained my sleep issues.)

The good news was that my legs and body felt no negative after effects from the half marathon the day before.

It was a beautiful day and we should have gone on our boat, but I felt crabby with no recourse.

So my hubby suggested that I go to the ER.

Fun. Fun.

They ran multiple blood tests (7 of them).

All came out negative and their only suggestion was to see a specialist and use Benadryl cream for the itching at night.

  • Monday – Day OFF from work – Labor Day.

No relief from the itching but I decided to take advantage of the nice weather and go for a walk.

trails at a nearby park

While I was gone, my hubby made plans to spend the day on the lake and invited two friends along.

Initially I was skeptical that I would have fun but actually, it worked out well.

another perfect weather day…

  • Tuesday – I had planned to run early with Jenny but I just couldn’t get out that early. At least it was a WFH day.

And after work, I finally went for a run.

boy, this felt hard.. even my lower back ached!

  • Wednesday – Another WRH day. I got up early and went to the gym.

Believe it or not, there was a cancellation and was able to see a dermatologist this afternoon about my mysteriously never ending rash.

He did some scraping and looking under a microscope. Found nothing and guessed perhaps it was some type of insect bites like sand flies.  IOW, he had no idea what it was…

His recommendation was to take Allegra twice a day for 2 weeks and come back and see him.

After I set up for tomorrow’s class, I went for a run hoping it would feel better than the day before…

hotter out than I thought and it was still hard but I think I felt a little better than the day before… baby steps.

  • Thursday – Today I had to teach in-person. That meant Starbucks and no early morning activity.

love their messages..

After work, our monthly tennis ladies meet-up took place.  We had dinner along the river and then went to Autumn Glow.

beautiful displays (more pics on IG & FB)… too bad it was raining!

  • Friday – Same as yesterday… just a different flavor coffee.

It’s been a while but I did play mah jongg in the evening.

Rash update:

Outbreaks have stopped and old rash is disappearing…

But a new bite has appeared and it is red and swollen (may need to repeat the Lyme test) and an itchy rash (not bites) on both sides of my neck. UGH!!!

  • Saturday – Malta 5k. It’s a race that I’ve done many times in the past.  Obviously I registered before all my rash issues so I had no expectations but fun.

And I did have fun, ran faster than expected and even won my age group.

$25 gift card to a wine./liquor store

After the race, I drove to the Zim Smith bike path to add on some more miles and meet friends for brunch.

Got both done before all the rain!!

  • Sunday – Gym visit is planned (my running friend plans to teach me how to dead lift) and then up to the lake today (weather permitting)…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – gym, STEM mentor run
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday – gym, dinner & movie (Downton Abbey!!)
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – gym, train to NYC
  • Saturday – Squirrel Stampede 10k, college reunion/Broadway show, train home
  • Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Malta 5k Race Recap
  • Friday – 5 Reasons to Look Forward to Fall

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Do you like 5ks? Does it feel like fall 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 8.24.25-8.31.25: Unplanned Taper…

I wanted to  keep my last WRD upbeat…

But here’s the real scoop:

On Thursday I had what I thought were bug bites…

But they started appearing EVERYWHERE!

So after work on Friday, I headed to Urgent Care.

I was told that the rash was an allergic reaction to something and prescribed Prednisone…

for 5 days (10 mg 2x a day) and NO RUNNING for 7.

Of course, I waited to take my first dose after my 11 mile long run on Saturday morning… (crossed my fingers that the rash would disappear and I would feel ok to run 13.1 miles in 8 days.)

Have you ever read the side effects for Prednisone?  Increased heart rate, high blood pressure, sleeplessness and more.

Plus they recommend no coffee, alcohol or sweets!! What? No coffee! Impossible.

Anyway, here’s how the week went:

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Unfortunately, the weather looked cloudy, cool and rainy so we decided not to go up to the lake. (I was actually relieved since I wasn’t in the mood to be around others. We had invited 2 friends on the boat.)

So I went to the gym…

Then I tried a new place that advertised NYC bagels and Brooklyn pizza..

I may need to try their pizza next…

I procrastinated on the grocery shopping and laundry and went for a scenic walk instead at Pine Hollow Arboretum…

I would have stayed longer but it started to rain…

Monday – WFH day and my only activity was a walk on the rail trail after work.

this is at the end of the rail trail… I met my running friend and we went out for burgers ($3.50 on Mondays)..

I completely forgot about meeting people to play pickleball. Steroid brain fog.

  • Tuesday – I met my early morning running friend Jenny at the track. After she had finished her workout, we walked together.

After work, I met my BFF for a walk around the outdoor mall.

  • Wednesday – Today I had to teach in-person. That meant Starbucks and no early morning activity.

first pumpkin drink of the season…

Again, after work, I did go for a walk. In the mall.

  • Thursday – Back to WFH.

Rash Update:  Many sleepless nights. Rash has mostly calmed down with only a few new outbreaks. I finished my Prednisone.

I took the day off from work and went for a short walk-run-walk to see how it felt to run again.

I drove to the Crossings for more different scenery…

I still have a rash and it itches in places but otherwise everything felt fine.

90:30 intervals including photo stops

In the evening, the last ARE trail night (& BBQ) was scheduled and I had missed most of them (for various reasons.) At the same time, I was supposed to attend a ZOOM STEM board meeting. Which one to choose??

Too tired to decide and so I skipped BOTH and went to bed early!!

  • Friday – WFH again but I took another day off again – The never ending rash and more poor sleep.

I managed to get up enough energy to hit the gym…

pick up up my bib (and Barbara’s) for Saturday race…

and walk on the trail (where the run was last night).

so peaceful and just what I needed to take my mind of the itching…

Then in the afternoon I went back to Urgent Care for the rash that keeps on giving.

Well since it didn’t disappear with Prednisone, they think that it’s not an allergic reaction. Who knows what it is but did you ever try to get an appt with a dermatologist?  I guess skin issues are not urgent. My appt is Oct. 7! Until then I have steroid cream for the next 2 weeks to control the itching.

  • Saturday – Run 4 the River Half Marathon.

I definitely was nervous about this race as I had the worst training cycle ever: heat, humidity, sore ankle, rash….)

But Barbara was doing it with me and my other friends would be cheering at the finish line after their long runs.

And what I said to Barbara was that I wanted to replace one pain with another and I thought the running one would be more temporary.

At least the weather was in my favor… it was perfect.

So we carpooled to the start and both made it to the finish… barely as we both struggled through the last 6 miles (Sometimes it’s just not your day!).

Afterward we partied with the other runners and our running friends.

  • Sunday – Gym visit is planned and then up to the lake today or tomorrow (weather and rash permitting)…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – DAY Off – Labor Day- gym, walk
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – dinner & Autumn Glow Festival w/tennis friends
  • Friday – mah jongg
  • Saturday – Malta 5k, run 
  • Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Run 4 the River Half Marathon Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Do anything special on Labor Day? Ever take steroids? 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.

by

Weekly Run Down for 8.10.25-8.16.25 & 8.17.25-8:24.25: Looking forward to Vacation Time & Sunflowers…

I hadn’t been on a vacation since last May.

So I was obviously looking forward to this trip to visit my college roommate.

And sunflowers are my favorites…

Two Weeks Ago –

  • Sunday – Run for the Roses 5k.

I’ve done this small local race before and enjoyed it.  This year I recruited my Heidi to join me. You get a shirt, a library book and a rose… and it raises money for the library.  Oh but I did forget that it was hilly!!

Although I was 3 minutes slower than last time, my ankle didn’t feel any worse and I won my age group (though I didn’t stay for the awards.)

Afterward, I jetted up to the lake and joined my hubby who was patiently waiting.

We spent the afternoon on an island and of course, I read a whole book.

My hubby drove home and I hung around town for a few more hours exploring the shops and listening to music (and having my evening ice cream).

  • Monday – I went to the gym before work and had my last pickleball lesson in the evening. Some folks mentioned that they may show up each week here to play… So I did buy a racquet and balls (just in case).
  • Tuesday – I met my friend Jenny again for an early morning run. She invited our friend Linda and chose a track workout…

some planets, the moon, sunrise and 50m repeats = great way to start the day

and then I had to rush home because I was teaching live today and tomorrow.

  • Wednesday – Same as the day before….

except that Jenny and I met early to run 60:60 intervals

and I chose a different flavor at Starbucks…

and we finally got some rain after work…

  • Thursday – I went to the gym and then left work early for a PT appt.

I told her that I was still sore and stiff but no worse. She did her stuff and proclaimed that it seemed a lot better. I was told to continue my exercises and return in three weeks.

Afterward, I was supposed to take the train to NYC. I had decided to stay overnight so I wouldn’t have to make the long trek to the Hamptons in one day.

Well, my train had so many delays that I decided to take the bus and arrived with no snafus. I checked into my hotel and then met Cari for dinner and conversation.

After we parted I continued my evening with a walk around NOMAD and had some gelato.

blogger meet ups are always a joy

  • Friday – I got up early to do my long run. I had thought of trying for 12 miles. I ran from my hotel toward the East River. Unfortunately I didn’t leave until 7 am and it was already hot and humid. I did my best but with construction, I kept hitting detours.

Eventually I arrived in the Financial District. My run was only about 8 interrupted miles but I was done.

pretty views but I won’t return until the construction is finished…

I walked around the area a bit and then took the subway back to my hotel to check out.

I had lunch and took the train to the Hampton Bays where my college roommate, Barbara, lives.

We went out for a drink at a restaurant on the water and we took a boat to another place for a drink. Finally we relaxed with a dinner also with a water view.

  • Saturday – I got up late and we just spent the day relaxing in her pool and reading.

I loved that book (though I cried through the end…)

Since I was running a race the next day, we went out for pizza for dinner (on the river this time).

We ended the evening with homemade ice cream.

Students from that school were the outdoor entertainment

Last Week –

  • Sunday – Ellen’s Run.

Early wake up because even though the race started at 9 am, Barbara was volunteering at 6:30 am.

I brought my breakfast and coffee and hung out until it was time to pick up my bib and shirt.

The race raised money for breast cancer research and many of the runners were either survivors or relatives of those who had the disease.

I decided to run in memory of my friend Ava who died back in November.

Although it was sunny, hot and humid, I did my best (and walked a lot) but still won my age group.

The plan for the afternoon was visiting a winery.

The one we chose even had live music. We brought along charcuterie and did flight tasting (5 different wines). All were good.

There were even sunflowers there.

For dinner, we stayed in and barbecued steaks and had home grown corn.

  • Monday – Unfortunately it was looking not to be a beach day. Cloudy, cool and breezy. Barbara also had work being done on her house.

I thought that I do a run but my legs wanted a walk and so I just ran to the water (which was nearby) and walked along the shore in both directions.

We went out for Mexican for our last dinner and then to a movie. It was an Italian movie and so good!!

  • Tuesday – Last day of vacay and I needed to run. This morning I chose to go to a nearby nature sanctuary. My legs felt like lead. Too much relaxing I guess.

Since the weather was perfect for the beach, that’s where we headed.

high rip tide but perfect for surfers… I just did some reading

Then I took the LIRR train back to NYC and eventually Amtrak home.  I arrived home late but no travel snafus… phew!

  • Wednesday – Back to the real world. Early wake up planned to run with Jenny. Then WFH.

Nope, it was pouring!! So I just went to the gym instead.  And it rained ALL DAY!

In the evening, I had dinner with my tennis friends.

good and good company (though our group was smaller than usual)

  • Thursday – WFH again and I had no time to run with Jenny in the morning so I instead of the trails, I ran after work on the rail trail.

too hot and too tired = struggle bus

I decided to end my day on a happy note – visit to a sunflower field.

🙂

  • Friday – Back to gym before work and another WFH day. I skipped mah jongg so I could wrap presents for the party the next day.
  • Saturday – Last long run before my half marathon

This would normally be a taper but I skipped my 12 miler and my friends are marathon training so I’d have company.

I met Sherry and Stan for some miles and then I joined Deb for the rest.

close to 11 run/walk miles done… good enough! FYI those stones in a circle around the tree  had a nest of turtles eggs

I had to skip brunch because there was a noon birthday party for my granddaughter who will be turning two.

with a Taco Twosday theme…

Since I do have a sunflower obsession, I drove up to another sunflower farm (one that also had colored sunflowers…

  • Sunday – Gym is planned and then up to the lake (if the weather forecast is wrong.)

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – walk, pickleball?
  • Tuesday – walk
  • Wednesday – walk
  • Thursday – run, STEM zoom
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Run 4 the River Half Marathon
  • Sunday – gym, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Ellen’s Run Recap
  • Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall?  Any fun beach vacations? Is your weather cooling down? What is your favorite flower? 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.