Weekly Run Down for 3.16.20-3.22.20: Wondering When I’ll Race Again

I LOVE to race.

And everyday, another race that I planned on running is cancelled or postponed…  NINE so far. The gyms are also closed…

A little hard to keep the motivation going.

My work trip to NYC was cancelled as well. And on Tuesday, I was ordered to work from home.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Cold temps have returned but at least it was sunny. My first run in my new Hokas. Unfortunately it was solo (and not because of social distancing.)

ran on the rail trail searching for signs of spring…the Hokas = meh

  • Tuesday – A rest day due to a scheduled hair appt (not necessary since the Sat wedding was cancelled…oh well.) But I woke up to finding out that I am now working form home. SURPRISE!! So I had to drive to work to get my files, laptop, etc. Definitely not a fan of being at home. At least I could now walk during lunch…

a short drive away

  • Wednesday – Day two of work from home and another lunch walk.

in my neighborhood

Back out there after work. Not in NYC’s Central Park with Cari and Elizabeth as planned but instead I drove to run in Albany’s Washington park. Solo!

unfortunately I lost the sunshine but found my first sighting of spring

  • Thursday – A rainy rest day but eventually it stopped so I could go for a walk during lunch

you can see my house in the top photo

and then again after work.

on the rail trail after stopping off to pick up my new glasses and a new chain for a necklace – both places will be closing after Friday.

  • Friday – Working at home. Getting into a routine. Lunch time walk.

muddy from all the rain

Online work meetings- thanks to ZOOM.

69 degrees…had to go for a run.  Tired of staying home so I drove to the Crossings followed by a trip to Trader Joes.

could have worn a tank!

No mah jongg. We are taking a break (social distancing….) but I had a second ZOOM video call of day catching up with my mah jongg friends. Gotta love technology.

  • Saturday – Normally our Sole Sister Long run day but it got postponed until tomorrow and I was wondering if anyone would want to run with me (even 6 feet away.)

My Yoga for Runners class got cancelled too. Instead, Samara offered it through ZOOM. My first online class and I enjoyed it (and so did my hamstrings). I’m not seeing this as a trend because I’m picky about my yoga instructors but I am comfortable with how she teaches. Next one is in April.

Afterward, I engaged in my usual Saturday activities of cleaning, laundry, etc. Although home, I still work from 8-4 on weekdays.

In the afternoon, I decided to go for a walk since although it was chilly, it was sunny.  I decided on Five Rivers (and so dd so many others. I even ran into a running friend.)

I so enjoyed the sunshine and being out in the fresh air.

  • Sunday – Long Run day.  It was supposed to be our H2H preview run but that got cancelled (as did the half marathon). I tried to convince my friends to run with me from 6 feet away but no takers. Sigh!

But the advantage of running alone is that I could run wherever and whenever. I decided I needed a different place and a scenic one.  So I drove to Waterford.  I ran toward Green Island for 3 miles  and then back.  Then I ran on the river trail in Waterford for 2 miles and back and the last mile was on an old trail.

perfect weather for running and the problem with scenic is that I had to make too many photo stops.

It was too nice out to go home so I stayed and walked the perimeter of Peebles Island. There were lots of people taking advantage of the weather. I saw an eagle’s nest and two eagles.

As you can see from the top collage, I stopped for ice cream on the way home (a soft-serve kiddie cone:)= my fave )

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – rest day
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – rest day, walk
  • Thursday – run 
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg walk
  • Saturday – 5k race. LONG  RUN
  • Sunday – rest day, walk

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Have any of the races that you trained for cancelled? Do you have a treadmill at home? How is this virus affecting you and your family? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 3.9.20-3.15.20: Race Cancelled!!

We turned our clocks ahead so more daylight. Win, Win on my post work day running (except for the rain.)

Sadly the week ended with the CANCELLATION of Half Marathon #42 and #3 for 2020: NYC Half Marathon!!!

Very upset..all that training…for NADA!

I can get a confirmed entry for next year but I don’t get a refund ($130) for this year’s race and I have to pay another $130 for next year’s race.

That really sucks!!

I will probably take the refund and take my chances with the lottery (or some miracle that I can run fast enough again & get into the timed entry lottery.)

Unfortunately I did not register for the Brooklyn Half because I did not want to run two half marathons that started in Prospect Park.

Enough whining!!

Last Week –

  • Monday – I started the day with a PT appt…my last one!!  It was like graduation.

I love Ashley. I was sad and happy to say good-bye. Now we are just FB friends.

Then after work, I went back to my podiatrist…the one who gave me the shot a few weeks ago. We talked about next steps… Nada! Continue wearing the metatarsal pad (instead of buying expensive orthotics) if it helps and if the pain starts to return, she’ll give me another B12 shot.

celebration drink!!

A beautiful spring day (74 degrees!!) and of course, it was a rest day. I was able to sneak in a quick walk before my meeting for the Freihofers Run for Women Ambassador Program. It was held at the Athleta store in the mall…(so that we would buy something with our 30% discount).

I only knew one or two of the runners so it was great meeting the others. Sorry Athleta, I stayed true to Skirt Sports and only bought a bra.

  • Tuesday – I planned to run with Chris after work and was hoping that the predicted rain would hold off. But it was obvious that if I waited for her to finish work, we would get rained on.  I was right.

a solo run but a dry muggy one

  • Wednesday – Another after work run. This time with Chris. We were as usual had the end of the day draggies but we got it done.

Back at UAlbany for the first time this week

  • Thursday – I cancelled my chiro appt.  It didn’t seem to matter if I was not running the half marathon on Saturday. I may schedule another before my April 18 half marathon (if that race happens.)

My NYC friend did pick up my race shirt and medal.

Instead of a run, I went out to dinner with a former co-worker. Unfortunately she had had to cancel her wedding due this this stupid virus.

  • Friday – Another rest day. I planned to stop at the gym before playing mah jongg.

UGH!!!

  • Saturday – I ran with Stan and the Sole Sisters. Since the NYC Half Marathon was cancelled, Sherry, Stan and I decided to run it virtually (I had to earn that medal and shirt!). It wasn’t easy and Stan is quite speedy so it was faster than my normal long run (but obviously slower than a race.) Chris was there too to cheer us on. And after, we all went out to a delicious and well-deserved brunch.

we ran in both directions on the Nisky bike path…it was a little breezy in one direction but quite comfortable (even warm) in the other

  • Sunday – Another rest day (with NO gym available).  I got my nails done and did some errands and took a long walk with Barbara.

we chatted and chatted, saw an eagle and I wore my new HOKAs (yup, I returned the last pair and trying another…)

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – run
  • Tuesday –  rest day, hair appt.
  • Wednesday – train to NYC, run in CP, meet up with Cari & Elizabeth
  • Thursday – run on HL or along the Hudson, Billy Joel Concert (cancelled)
  • Friday – rest day, train home from NYC
  • Saturday – Long Run, yoga, wedding (cancelled)
  • Sunday – 10.5 mile H2H preview run(cancelled)

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who was running the NYC Half Marathon?  Ever have a big race that you trained for cancelled? How do you feel when you are done with PT?  Do you regularly see a chiro (even if you are not injured?)  What about orthotics?  Have you spent the $$$ on custom ones? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 3.2.20-3.8.20: Taper Time?

I guess I’m tapering for my next half marathon but it don’t feel like I have been training. It was a very busy work week.

I continued to experience only minor foot discomfort. Hooray!!

Last Week –

  • Monday – I started the day with a PT appointment. She worked on BOTH feet and calves…. I hope to be done with PT next week!!

A little tired because I stayed up until midnight to register for this:

It’s July 5 and I’ve already wanted to do this but had to work… the good hikes sell out fast… Excited to hike Pinnacle Peak.

And one of my favorite author’s special day:

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. And when things start to happen, don’t worry. Don’t stew. Just go right along. You’ll start happening too! You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so…get on your way!”

So he inspired me after work to go for a run. I was solo since my friends were busy 😦 Warm temps but windy and no rain!!!

I ran on the rail trail and was over dressed…this crazy weather!

  • Tuesday – Another after work run…again hoping for no rain. It was really dark when I finished work so I made the decision to run right away instead of waiting for Chris to get out of work.  And it was a good call as it started to pour as soon I finished my run.

I ran on the Corning Bike Path since it was closer than UAlbany and I overdressed again.

  • Wednesday – I would normally call it a rest day but I would not be able to run the next two days and I was anxious to try out my Hokas. Today I did run with Chris at UAlbany. Neither one of us felt peppy but we got it done.

I was too tired from standing all day to give a verdict on the Hokas.

  • Thursday – Finally a rest day due to an after work eye appt.  I ordered new glasses. I normally wear contacts but my glasses were old. Maybe now I’ll wear my new cool expensive glasses (or not?)
  • Friday – Another rest day and my weekly mah jongg night (and going to bed too late.)
  • Saturday – My last long run before the NYC Half. I ran on the Corning Bike Path with some of the Sole Sisters ( and Stan.) Since I skipped my 11 mile long run and shortened my 12 miler to 11, I had decided to run 10 miles rather than 8 but then I wound up with 11.5. One mile solo, 5.5 with Stan and then 5 with Chris and Deb. The miles with Stan were way too fast so I left him to run the rest of his miles with Sherry. It was colder than previous days but when the wind was at our back and the sun in our faces, it was quite comfortable. Afterward we joined the others for brunch.

Stan & I twinned with our Lebow beanies. Hokas felt great on the bottoms of my feet but gave me blisters on the sides (too wide??)

In the evening (after errands, laundry), the hubby and I went out to dinner with my stepson and his wife. Yes, more food (but I did run 11.5 miles!!)

Image result for international women's day

  • Sunday – Lost an hour of sleep but gained an hour of daylight. Started the day with mega cooking for the week. Then decided to celebrate International Women’s Day with another run with some of the Sole Sisters.  We returned to Corning and got accompanied by some dogs!

50 degrees…overdressed AGAIN!!

.After my run, I met some friends to go to the movies.

Emma poster.jpeg

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  am PT appt, rest day, pm Dr appt, FRW ambassador meeting
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – rest day, chiro appt.
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day, bus to NYC, bib pick up, carb loading
  • Sunday – Race DAY – NYC Half Marathon, refueling, bus home

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who’s running the NYC Half Marathon? Are you a Dr. Seuss fan? Have you seen any good movies lately?  Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 2.24.20-3.1.20: Am I pain-free?

Last week, I went to a new doctor who prescribed wrapping and padding my foot. She also gave me a B12/cortisone shot. This week was my chance to test the foot…weather permitting.

AND IT PASSED!! Woo Hoo!

Last Week –

  • Monday – I started the day with a PT appointment. I told her that I walked over 8 miles a day in Montreal with little pain.  She was very encouraged…maybe I will be graduating soon?

After work, I went for a run with Jeri. 60 degrees in Feb!! So awesome. In spite the great weather, my run was so sluggish. At least, my foot did NOT hurt.

the usual UAlbany loop.  I was so hungry that I couldn’t wait to eat after my run lol

  • Tuesday – Long Day (starting at 7 am) working tech support at the Bar Exam. I was hoping that the rain would hold off so I could run. And it did!  Although the weather was cooler and drearier, I felt a lot peppier.  Go figure! Still no pain!!! Yeah!

when I worked here, this was the route I ran after work most days

  • Wednesday – A well deserved rest day and after work trip to bike at the gym.
  • Thursday – Had to take the hubby to the airport at 4:30 am (He’s playing in a tennis tournament in Fla). It was a nasty rainy/snowy windy day but the rain stopped so Chris and I were able to get our run in. Cold and very windy!!

31 degrees with feels like 18 temps due to the wind!!!

  • Friday – Another day at the Bar Exam and a rest day since I was hosting mah jongg at my house.
  • Saturday – A long run with the Sole Sisters. Since I skipped my long run last weekend but I have a half marathon in TWO WEEKS, I wasn’t sure how many to run. But I was very interested to see if my foot could give me some pain-free miles. I can’t say it was pain-free or uneventful.  I ran one solo mile and then 7 with Deb & Chris. It started to snow and it got icy. I almost fell several times. Chris did fall. We turned around and ran 2 more miles running into Heidi and Angie.  The sun came out and then it got windy.  11 miles done (I had hoped to do 12.) and my foot was a little sore but so much better than before.  Unfortunately the other foot (bunion area) hurt.  Always something.  A tough run however, a delicious brunch with friends made it feel better.

ran 4:1 intervals but it was still hard…glad to not have to do my runs alone 🙂

Of course I watched the Olympic Trials. So sorry for Des!

And I returned my Ghost 12s and got these:

Hoka Cliftons…

spent some alone with the kitty

  • Sunday – Recovery day at the gym,

surprised? Yeah, me too.

Then did some errands, cooking, laundry, cleaning and the hubby came home late that night.

waiting for my car inspection.. McD’s Shamrock Shake is my weakness

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – AM PT, run
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – rest day, eye appt
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who’s running the NYC Half Marathon? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 2.10.20-2.23.20: Travelling Internationally

Quite a busy two weeks. First, I went to Bermuda with Cari for a vacation and a race or two. Then I ended the next week with a trip to Montreal with a friend.

Good thing, I had a passport already.

Last Two Weeks –

  • Monday – Lunch time chair yoga (the last one). I wish these classes would continue weekly.
chair yoga

yeah…I could do these on my own…but I won’t… I’m a NEED A CLASS kind of person

An after work run was planned…the weather did not cooperate all day (snow/rain/sleet) but stopped by time I went out to run. My friend Chris had to work late so I ran one loop and she joined me for the second.

drizzled for my first painful loop…felt better on the 2nd. Fairly comfortable temps (almost 40) so that is a win. 

  • Tuesday –  A before work PT visit. My last one before my next half marathon. More scraping, prodding and listening to me whine and complain.

Image result for ashley bertorelli PT green room

A rest day due to a hair appointment and needing to pack for my trip.

  • Wednesday – Early morning train to NYC.  I got there very early so took a stroll around Manhattan.

FYI: free bag check in Macys across from Penn Sta.

Then I took the LIRR from Penn Sta. to Jamaica where I took the air train to meet Cari at JFK for our evening flight to Bermuda.

We eventually arrived late that evening and took a shuttle to our hotel.

We discovered on that long shuttle ride that Bermuda is indeed hilly and that there are NO straight roads.

  • Thursday – I hadn’t run in a few days and I was anxious to get out there…and run in a skirt!!

But finding a place to run was no easy task. First we headed to Horseshoe Beach.

skirt weather..woo hoo!

Then along a railway trail that eventually led to Gibbs Lighthouse where we climbed to the top.

only 192 steps to the top

All that walking exhausted us so we spent the afternoon relaxing at the hotel pool

breezy and 70 degrees…warm enough for the heated pool and hot tub

before we took a bus to the Royal Naval Dockyard for dinner.

strolled the area and then ate at the Frog & Onion Pub

  • Friday – Since there was very little running the day before, we decided to attempt a run on the hotel golf course. Nope, hillier than the winding roads. But there was little time for exploring so we squeezed in a short one around the hotel grounds.

views were awesome …not the hills

After our run, we took the ferry (with some other runners) to spend the day in Hamilton. We explored the shops, streets and had a lovely lunch.

even found ibuprofen gel in a pharmacy (not sold in the US)

Then we took the bus back to the hotel. There was just enough time for a brief visit to the pool and meet up with friend and fellow blogger Marcia.

That evening was packet pick up and ZOOMA welcome party. Swag, drinks, hors d’oeuvres and new friends. So fun.

  • Saturday – A busy day planned and our only miserable cold, windy, rainy day. ZOOMA organized a trip to explore Crystal and Fantasy Caves. They were amazing. And so was lunch at the Swizzle Inn.

these pics don’t do it justice…you have to see them in person.

In the evening, we had our first race.  The ZOOMA Lighthouse Run.  It was still cold, windy and raining. Marcia, Cari and I decided to walk the 1.5 miles. We were soaked but arrived at Horseshoe Beach smiling.

yup, Cari & I accidentally twinned.

  • Sunday – The big day!!  An early bus ride to the start and then the ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon.  Both Cari and I were just running it to enjoy the scenery and collect our medal at the finish line.  I knew that my foot would hurt but I knew I could do it in pain. The course was breathtaking with hills and curvy roads open to traffic. It rained for one of the early miles and then the sun came out and the humidity rose. It was tough. No lie. But such a well run race. Everyone had a great time and we made so many new friends. The Pacers from OnPace rocked!

no race is complete without goofy medal pix on the beach

After the race, we had thought of visiting the town of St. Georges. Our legs and feet thought the pool and hot tub were a better idea.

In the evening we walked (ouch) to Henry VIII for a celebration dinner and thankfully took a taxi back to the hotel.

  • Monday – An early wake up to catch the shuttle to the airport to fly home to JFK and then I had to take the air train to the LIRR and a train back home!!

Exhausted but happy with my decision to race in Bermuda (even if it was off season.) Definitely would love to go back sometime.

  • Tuesday – Back to normal.  Work. Grey skies, cold temps, snow/rain. I decided to skip the after work run and ride the bike at the gym.

Image result for national drink wine day

It was also National Drink Wine Day so of course, I had to…I met a friend for a glass of red.

  • Wednesday – Early morning visit to PT.  I complained that my foot hurt just as much during my race as before I started seeing her. She recommended that I see another foot doctor.  Luckily I got an appt for that same afternoon. She gave me B12/cortisone shot, added a metatarsal pad and wrapped my feet. We talked about all the options (most of which are NOT covered by insurance.)
Image result for foot cortisone shot for neuroma

not my foot lol

Afterward, I wanted to go for a run. My friend Chris was sick so I had to run solo. Boo!!

windy but sunny…not much pain…but too soon to tell…

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

  • Thursday – Back to running after work in my usual location – UAlbany with Chris. Teens with the windchill…brrrrr!

Chris was ok but I forgot my hat, gloves, jacket…had to make due with what I had in my trunk

  • Friday – Lunchtime walk and after work gym biking before mah jongg.
  • Saturday – Montreal trip instead of my long run with the Sole Sisters. Yes, my friend and I decided to drive there because I wanted to see the interactive Van Gogh exhibit.

We left at 6:30 am and after a 3.5 hour drive, we checked into our hotel and walked to the exhibit. A much longer walk than I thought but the weather was beautiful and the exhibit amazing. 200 paintings on moving screens choreographed to music. So worth the drive!!!

No running today but 8.5 miles on the feet as we also walked to the Old City to have a delicious French dinner.

  • Sunday – I got up early to do my run…supposed to be 11 miles. The weather was even better than the day before. I ran to the river and along it. I could have run forever but my friend was waiting in the hotel. Only got in 4.5 miles.

Afterward we walked around town and went to the Barbie Expo (yes over 1000 Barbies in costume). Then we had another delicious French meal before we checked out of our hotel.

On the way out of the city, we drove up to Mont Royal to catch the views.

So lucky that the weather cooperated. Might have been the nicest we’ve had this winter.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – AM PT, run
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – rest day, gym
  • Thursday – run 
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg chez moi
  • Saturday – Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day

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.

Happy Running! How is your running/racing going? Have you been to Bermuda? Have you run a ZOOMA race? What’s new with you? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 2.3.20-2.9.20: Still dealing with foot pain

Last Week –

  • Monday – I started the day with a PT appointment. I confessed to her that I felt like my foot was not any better and that I would be in pain forever. She listened and told me what I was feeling was normal.  In addition to all the scrapping and nerve prodding, I got some laser therapy at this session. She said that I may be sore but I could run.
Image result for laser therapy in physiotherapy on foot"

My PT used the laser on the ball of my foot

During lunch, there was Yoga Chair session #3. A workout for an hour (in a good way.)

Image result for chair yoga"

I had no residual foot pain from the laser, so I decided to do the usual weekday run. Unfortunately my friend Chris was not available this week (I hate running alone.)

I wound up bumping into my friend Lara and we ran about a mile together but I had to turn around since it was getting too dark. (She had a headlight. I did not). My foot felt a little better but still some soreness.

  • Tuesday – Another after work run. Two days in a row because I would not have time to run the rest of the week. I did the usual UAlbany loop. I am been finding that the foot pain is zapping my running mojo and I need either company or a race to get out there. I had neither today 😦

a warmer but cloudier day…foot pain persisted intermittently and more than the day before

  • Wednesday – Rest day due to an after work PT appointment  (same old, same old and she insists that she will cure me but it may take a long time…UGH!) followed by a required bar exam webinar and test. Again the sun came out on my rest day!!
  • Thursday – Another rest day since I had plans for the evening with tennis friends. (Besides the weather was ugly – snow/sleet/rain).

First we went to the Institute of History & Art for a wine/coloring party.

ADULT COLORING NIGHT Enjoy a relaxing night as you add your own color to images from the Albany Institute’s collections! Each participant will receive 6 images from the museum’s collection printed on cardstock and will have the opportunity to use diverse coloring media such as water-soluble pencils and crayons, colored pencils, and colored pens to fill the images in. Participants 21 and over may also purchase a ticket for a single serving bottle of wine to be enjoyed with the program.

Afterward, we all went out to dinner…a very late night but worth it.

  • Friday – Rest Day #3. Another ugly rainy/snowy day. I could have run on the TM at the gym but I don’t like to run the day before a long run. Instead, I used the bike while reading a book (Running With Sherman 🙂 )

Mah Jongg this week was cancelled due to this horrendous weather.

  • Saturday – A long run with some of the Sole Sisters. I ran 3 and then met Sherry for 6 more.  It was chilly but sunny and no wind.  Glad I got there there.

the boring UAlbany loops but the pain is bearable when running with friends.

After our run, we met the others for brunch.

In the afternoon, I went to my monthly yoga session with Samara. This week’s focus was: Feet and Calf Activation and Healing (appropriate for me, right?)

Afterward, I got my nails done…boy I needed that.

  • Sunday – Rest day. Got some biking done at the gym, errands and started packing for my trip to Bermuda…sunshine is awaiting me!!!!!!!!!! (of course, rain is in the forecast…no rain, please!!)

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – run
  • Tuesday –  rest day, am PT, pm hair appt.
  • Wednesday – train to NYC, train/subway to JFK, flight to Bermuda, shuttle to hotel
  • Thursday – run, exploring the island
  • Friday – rest day, exploring Bermuda (Dolphins, beaches, pink sand, sunsets…oh my)
  • Saturday – more exploring Bermuda (Crystal Caves, St Georges), Sunset Lighthouse Race (2 mile walk)
  • Sunday – ZOOMA Half Marathon, more exploring Bermuda (Beaches)
  • Monday – rest day, shuttle to airport, flight to NYC, subway/train to Penn Sta, train home

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for their first 2020 race? Who’s joining me in Bermuda? What’s new with you? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 1.27.20 – 2.2.20: Honoring AndyJHa

A very busy work week, and 2 PT visits, a tennis dinner and race thrown in the mix. Plus it was supposedly my peak training week for my next half marathon…

Last Week –

  • Monday – My second lunchtime Chair Yoga session…super relaxing and actually fun.

After work, I went to PT again.  I explained that the pain during the run seemed to be a little better but the next day, it hurt more than usual.  She did more of the same as in previous sessions. The Laser machine was busy so we postponed it.

Afterward, I went to a short town run to test out yet another pair of new shoes (I returned the Altras.)

pretty discouraging run as my foot hurt a lot for the first 2 miles…

  • Tuesday – Since I would be busy on Wednesday, I ran for the 2nd day in a row (which I normally hesitate to do.) I had Chris for company and we ran one loop at UAlbany. Not a stellar effort for either of us but we got it done and my foot did not hurt as much as the previous day.

  • Wednesday – Rest day and another PT session. More of the same. She is trying to fix me. Ha ha.

I stopped off at the gym on my way home but no unoccupied bikes so I left.

  • Thursday – A long work day and another UAlbany run. Solo. Chris could not make it. Still painful which I realized makes me not want to run. Good thing it was a loop and I had get back to my car.

After the run, I met some tennis friends for dinner. Always an enjoyable event.

News of the day: At noon registration for NYC marathon opened. I had a qualifying time. I hesitated and hesitated. Nope. I didn’t pull the trigger and the timed entries closed in about 20 min.

No marathon for me. I think I’m relieved.

  • Friday – Long work day and mah jongg evening. Squeezed in a short stationary bike ride in between.
  • Saturday – Polar Cap Race, a 4 miler that is hilly and always super COLD.  It was also the FIRST time that I’ve run this race without my friend Andrea (who died last week.) For the first time, the weather was pretty nice.  They had a moment of silence for Andrea and dedicated the race to her.  I was pretty emotional. But I tackled the hills with lots of foot pain and even won an age group award.

Afterward I dragged my sore foot 5 or so more miles while checking out the Lake George Winter Carnival.

  • Sunday – I was planning on doing the Winter Series #5, a free local race. But after all that foot pain the day before, I didn’t want to repeat the experience. Instead, I rode the bike at the gym, did some errands and went to the movies.
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really enjoyed this!!!!

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – PT, run 
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – rest day, PT, work webinar
  • Thursday – rest day, museum activities, dinner out with tennis friends
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run with Sole Sisters (8-10 miles), yoga
  • Sunday – rest day

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for a 2020 race? Who’s joining me in Bermuda?  Anyone sign up for the NYC Marathon lottery (It opened this week.) What’s new with you? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 1.20.20-1.26.20: On to the Next Challenge

Back from my weekend in NYC and my first long race of 2020…and now training for my next in a month, a race-cation in Bermuda!!

Last Week –

  • Monday – MLK Holiday so a day off from work… and recuperating from the weekend!! Also I went for an evaluation at PT to try and get rid on my annoying foot pain. She says it is nerve impingement (not necessarily a neuroma) caused by my tight right ankle muscles and poor posture (especially being on the computer all day.) She scraped, massaged, rubbed on CBD oil, used electronic stimulation and gave me exercises to strengthen my quads. We’ll see… Fingers crossed.

Image result for ashley green room pt

  • Tuesday – My legs felt great but it was cold and I decided to postpone my run and ride the bike at the gym instead.

Afterward I met my BFF for a walk around the mall. Unfortunately I returned home to news that my good friend had lost her battle with cancer.

@andyjha – you will be greatly missed as a runner, biker, triathlete, teacher, photographer, lover of coffee, lighthouses, covered bridges and mostly as a friend

  • Wednesday – Back to PT. Similar experience to Monday (but no CBD oil). She also worked on my calf.  Next Monday, she is going to try using the laser treatment.
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not my foot lol

Since I had not run since Sunday, I decided to test out the foot. Unfortunately, my favorite path was snow-covered so I ran on the roads alongside it.

foot still sore at the beginning but pretty painless after awhile (but only a short run so I am not saying that it’s any better…yet)

  • Thursday – Another run day. This time at UAlbany with Chris. It is so much easier when you have company. We chatted the whole time.

  • Friday – Rest Day…and then mah jongg in the evening,
  • Saturday – Long Run Day with my Sole Sisters (although many of them were in FL or busy). Very happy to find the path at the Crossings clear. Managed to get 11 miles in and brunch before the rain started.

ran 7 out of 11 with Sherry (not pictured)

That evening the hubby & I went out to a fancy dinner to finally celebrate our anniversary. (Sorry no pix.)

  • Sunday – Rest day…catch up day around the house..lots of errands.

I am weak…

I managed to do some biking at the gym and went for a walk on the local trail.

rain washed away the snow but it was still too slushy and icy to run on…like my new shoes? (I returned the Altras and bought Brooks Ghost.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – PT, run (Delmar)
  • Tuesday –  run (UAlbany)
  • Wednesday – rest day, PT
  • Thursday – run (UAlbany), dinner with tennis friends
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Polar Cap Race (4m) + 8m??? OR
  • Sunday – Winter Series #5 (4.5m or 10m)?? – depends on what I run on Saturday

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone training yet for their first 2020 race? Who’s joining me in Bermuda? What’s new with you? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 1.13.20-1.19.20: Race Week??

Back working at home until March except for some race-cations thrown in.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Back to my podiatrist because the foot pain continues. I convinced him that I think it’s a neuroma. He agreed that if it were small, it wouldn’t show up on a MRI and he gave me a cortisone shot.  He added that we wouldn’t know if it worked for 2-3 weeks.

Had my first of 4 Chair Yoga sessions at work. So fun. Need it every day!!

great stretching without having to change from your work clothes.

After work, I ran my usual 3 mile UAlbany.

verdict is still out on the shot..foot still numb…time will tell…

  • Tuesday – Rest Day scheduled due to a much needed hair appointment.
  • Wednesday – Long work day but needed to run it off. Instead of UAlbany, I drove to rail trail and also ran in the local neighborhoods when it got dark.

after standing all the day, the foot really ached

  • Thursday – Debating all day about whether or not to run a half in NYC on Sunday. Tonight was the deadline to cancel my hotel reservations.  The weather forecast for Saturday was snow/rain but on race day, it had improved..and then there was the foot situation and lack of training. Decisions….Decisions.

oops..almost forgot…we’ll celebrate at a later date.

After another day on my feet, I went for a run at UAlbany with Chris.

much colder and windier but the foot felt better than the day before

  • Friday – PT consult today.  Looking for answers for my foot. She says she can help..appointments made for next Monday and Wednesday.

Also a Rest Day to get ready for the weekend in NYC and an evening with the mah jongg ladies. Yup, I decided to go for it.  I love a challenge and I hoped that I wouldn’t regret it.

  • Saturday – Another rest day cuz I was headed to NYC by bus. Thanks to the snow, my bus arrived late so I immediately headed to meet fellow bloggers Cari and Deborah. We had a great time over wine and popcorn. I briefly stopped off to check into my hotel before heading to Brooklyn to carb load with friend Stan who was also running the half the next day.

  • Sunday – Race Day – Fred Lebow Half Marathon. Holy hills!!! Two full loops of Central Park on a beautiful day. Perfect weather for running but the cold temps and wind had me freezing my butt off before and after the race. The foot hurt but seems no worse than before. The hills were what had me bitching. After a long hot shower, I met Stan for brunch. And we both decided to head home several hours early. (Too cold windy and sore to hike around the city.). I felt better after running 26.2 miles. Go figure.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – PT, rest day
  • Tuesday –  rest day, gym, mall walk with BFF
  • Wednesday – PT, run (Delmar)
  • Thursday –run (UAlbany)
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – long run with Sole Sisters (11 miles)
  • Sunday – rest day

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Anyone suffering from undiagnosable injuries? Ever have a cortisone shot? What’s new with you? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 1.6.20-1.12.20: Back in the Big Apple

After two weeks of sleeping in my own bed, I was back on road… At least, It was to NYC, my favorite place to travel to. The last time I was there, I was nursing a sore foot and did not run at all. This time, I ran even with my sore foot.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Took the train to NYC for work.

sock done…finally

After I arrived, I went to/from Queens. I had planned on my way back to stop at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  Since it closes at 5:30 pm, this was the only day that I could squeeze in a visit. But instead I decided to rest my foot and go back to my hotel to ride the bike.

Afterward I took the subway to meet Cari and we walked to Elizabeth’s who made dinner for us. Always fun to catch up with my BRFs and fellow Skirt Sports ambassadors.

they are one of the reasons why I enjoy working in NYC

  • Tuesday – After work today, I quickly changed into running clothes and headed to the Hudson River to go for a run. Decided to run on the High Line. Unfortunately parts of the run felt good but on the whole, the foot (after standing on it for 8 hours) felt worse after than in previous runs. It led me to reconsider this running in pain thing.

  • Wednesday – Since I am trying to rest my foot and not run everyday, instead after work, I took in a show. I thought about Jagged Little Pill but instead chose Rock of Ages. Very corny but at least the tix were not expensive.

And I also finally got my MRI diagnosis. Foot looks perfectly normal. No sign of anything wrong. Yet it hurts like hell. Plan to pursue the cortisone shot and consult a PT.

  • Thursday – Today after work, I took the subway to Columbus Circle and met Cari to run in Central Park. After Tuesday, I wasn’t sure I would run and how much. But we made it through 3 miles. The pain seemed more bearable and the company great.

Afterward we did some shopping at Jack Rabbit.

wide toe box and bargain price 🙂

  • Friday – Another rest day, since I had to catch the train home after work.
  • Saturday – Long run scheduled with the Sole Sisters. It was warmer than usual (in the 60s!!!) and the rain held off. I ran the first few miles with Barbara and the rest with Sherry. Afterwards, we all met for brunch…of course.

yes, my foot hurt but the weather and the company made the pain bearable…next week, NYC????

In the the afternoon, I attended my 3rd Yoga for Runners class. The topic this month was

  • Sunday – 65 degrees!!! Many of my friends were running the Winter Series #3 Race.  The weather and FOMO led me to join them.   I mostly walked with some run intervals thrown in.

the course was short…only 2.5 miles

After the race, we met our other friends for a farewell brunch. (A few are heading to winter in FL.)

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – run (Ualbany)
  • Tuesday –  rest day, hair appt.
  • Wednesday – run (Delmar)
  • Thursday – run (UAlbany)
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day, bus to NYC, blogger meetup, pizza in Brooklyn
  • Sunday – Fred Lebow Half Marathon, lunch, bus home

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Are you experiencing global warming where you live? Ever walk a race? Anyone suffering from undiagnosable injuries?What’s new with you? Please share.