May 13, 2025 by Darlene

2025 Tropicool 5k Race Recap

MAY 4, 2025

As you may remember, this race took place during my annual non-running tennis vacation in Naples, Florida. I play tennis every morning and then spend the afternoon on the beach. Each evening I go out for drinks, dinner and dessert with my tennis friends. Eight days of pure relaxation and enjoyment… (every May since 2005)

I love it. It’s usually my only vacation that doesn’t include a race. You have to admit that racing during a vacation does add an element of stress.

Well, in 2017. we changed our dates and I happened upon a 5k race that took place on the Sunday during our stay. One of my friends offered to get up at the crack of dawn and drop me off and another offered to pick me up.

Despite the loops and warm temps, I had a blast and did fairly well.

I also unexpectedly bumped into a tennis friend, Rebecca, who had moved to Naples.

As a result, I signed up for the same 5k in 2018 and 2019. I won an age group award each time and met up with Rebecca.

Our vacation was cancelled due to COVID in 2020 and the race in 2021 did not occur during our time in Naples.

So I was pretty excited to run this race again in 2022. The downside was that Rebecca died suddenly in 2021 and I knew that the race would remind me of her sadly.

I decided to run the race anyway and each year, if I was able, in Rebecca’s honor.

and yes, again I won an age group award

However since I was still recovering from a broken foot, I decided to skip the race in 2023 but last year, I put it back on my racing schedule.

another age group award for a course PW

After I signed up for this race, I got an email saying that they had to change the course. I could have gotten a refund. But what the hell. A new race!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

The night before the race, we went out to an awesome dinner at a Peruvian Restaurant. No pizza or pasta on the menu so I had to skip the obligatory carb loading before a race.

Here is the NEW course map:

Apparently, it is the same course as the Baker Park 5k held in March every year.

Rather than being near the Beaches of the Gulf, it is along the Gordon River.

Of course, I checked out last year’s results:

Anyone look familiar??

at least, there’s hope for me here…

Race Day:

Sunday morning, I groggily ate my usual race breakfast at 5:30 am. As she did in previous years, my friend Catalina agreed to drop me off at the race start. I wasn’t familiar with the race location so I needed to arrive earlier than normal.

There was no packet pick up before the race. So I got my bib on race day. The swag was a shirt. And I had to hide it under a tree since I did have a bag or a car.

Since I was early, I walked around…. this was a really beautiful park… very conducive to running, walking, biking…

This was not a big race. There were about 275 runners – all ages and very friendly.

It was pretty cloudy when I got there and rain was forecast. At times, the sun did peak out. It was starting to get warm. I checked the weather app on my phone. Holy humidity!

I wore my usual race attire minus the compression socks:

As you can see from the map, the course winds the park and loops back toward the start.

pretty flat except for the bridges over the river

I had no plan for the race – just finish and get back to my friends so we could continue with our plans for the day. (Gone are the days when I finished this race in 27:xx!!)

I also haven’t raced in weather this warm since last August. This made me a little nervous. Can I run well in the heat/humidity? Will I die? LOL

I had no idea what the course looked like until after the race but I did take some photos before the race on what turned out to be part of the race course:

Mile 1:

the lady on the right was in my age group and finished a few seconds after me.

From the get go, my legs felt like lead but my biggest problem was that I had a hard time breathing and I felt dizzy. Was it the heat? Most likely it was not being acclimated to the humidity. I couldn’t wait to get to the water stop…

Actually I could not wait to walk…

Mile 2:

It seemed like forever but I think it was during mile 2. I stopped for water and walked for a while (longer than the first walk).

I continued my running which was painful and seemed to be like a slog…

As I mentioned above, the course ran through the park and it was very pretty. It was a mixture of flat paths and wooden bridges over the river..

I walked whenever I felt I had to… I really didn’t care about my time as long as I finished.

Mile 3 – 3.1:

I actually felt worse after walking so I ran and tried to just get to the finish line without puking.

Eventually the arch appeared and I gave it my all.

I was shocked when I crossed at 31:xx. I felt so much slower.

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed some water but skipped the refreshments which were only bars, bananas and navel oranges.

I quickly checked the results to see if I won an award. And I did!!

first!

My friend Pat came to pick me up. She walked around the park while I waited for the award ceremony.

I was happy that they started with the oldest age groups first.

Additional Race Reflections:

Definitely a tough one and again one of my slower 5ks but hey, I did it.

And I will do it again!

Racing for me is always enjoyable (at least afterward.)

Positives:

flatish course
well organized
ample parking
nice shirt (gender-specific)
Instant results emailed/texted to runners
creative age group award (picture frame)
important charity (scholarships to HS students)
Nice park
River views
Real rest rooms

Negatives:

Rebecca was no longer there. 😦
Warm temps and humidity
Not near the ocean

Would I recommend this race?

Yes! There was a lot of enthusiasm and runners of all ages.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

3.5 fun miles

and then:

10 miles – 5/25/25

Happy Running! Ever run a 5K race while on vacation? Do you find it hard to race in the hot weather? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

January 21, 2025 by Darlene

TT: Mental Benefits to Running (in January)

Running in Cold Weather Tips: How to Run Outside in the Winter | SELF

Do you hesitate to go for a run outdoors when it is freezing?

Here’s why you should bite the bullet and ditch the treadmill, if possible:

Running releases feel-good chemicals:

Running releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which can improve your mood.

This is important in all seasons but often more needed in the cold weather months.

Running reduces symptoms of depression:

Regular exercise such as running can help reduce symptoms of depression.

Ever get that post-holiday blues?

Running improves sleep:

Running in the morning can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

And since it gets darks so early now, morning is the best time to run.

Running increases confidence:

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

Setting and achieving running goals can help you feel more confident and accomplished.

Now is the time to start on those goals.

Running improves focus:

Nature can provide a break from daily stimuli, which can help improve focus.

Do you stare at the computer most of the day?

Try to take a break and go for a run…

Running increases energy:

Exercising outdoors (by going for a run) can increase your energy levels.

No matter how tired you feel, if you go outside for a run, you will feel more energized when you return indoors.

While Running you absorb vitamin D:

The sun provides vitamin D, which can improve your mood and energy levels.

Obviously it’s best to go for a run on a sunny day but there is still more vitamin D outdoors on a cloudy day than inside.

Happy Running! Do you run outdoors in January? Why or why not? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

January 7, 2025 by Darlene

The Best of 2024

I do this post every year and I almost forgot this year.

Best Picture from a Race: HELDERBERG TO HUDSON HM

Best Weather during a Race: TCS NYC MARATHON

Best Race Swag: HOT CHOCOLATE 15K (VIRTUAL)

love this jacket

Best Age Group Award: CAPE COD HM

Best Race Refreshments: RUN 4 THE RIVER HM (beer, pizza, mac n cheese) and BARN 2 BRIDGE FALL FEST 5K (ice cream, chocolate milk, cheeseburger & fries)

Best Scenic Race Course: BRIDGE THE GAP 5K and CAPE COD HM (I’m a sucker for water views)

Best Race Finish: FREIHOFER RUN FOR WOMEN

who doesn’t love a downhill finish (even if you are walking)

Best Race Finish Time: SILKS & SATINS 5K

not even close to a PR but under 10 min pace

Best Organized Race: HELDERBERG TO HUDSON HM (and ALL A.R.E.-sponsored races)

Best Volunteer Stint: RUN FOR WOMEN 5K

Best Race Medal: BRIDGE THE GAP 5K (prettiest) and TCS NYC MARATHON (well earned)

Best New (to me) Race: KEEP MOO’VING 5K

ice cream!!

Best Race Outfit: FIRECRACKER 4

Best Race Location: CAPE COD and NYC

I enjoyed all of my 20 races in 2024. Each one was special in a different way.

Happy Running! What are some of your race highlights of 2024? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and on Wednesday:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

December 21, 2024 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 12.15.24-12.22.24: NYC and No Time to Run…

Back to NYC for work and the beginning of a Holiday Challenge.

We’ll see how this goes. I’m not good with streaks or challenges.

I’m not injured… I’m feeling just fine but can’t seem fit running into my life…

Last Week –

Sunday – I took an early morning train to NYC since I had to work there for the next two days. (Unfortunately I had to DNS a race this morning but at least it was a free one).

Hopefully, I run the next 3…

After I checked into my hotel, I headed out for a long run (I actually wore my running clothes on the train).

I ran around Hudson Yards then along the Hudson River, took a break at Pier 57 and then ran back to the hotel…

Then I changed my clothes and took the subway to Brooklyn. I had signed up for a walking tour of Dyker Heights.

over 100 houses decorated and the photos don’t do them justice…

It was just as amazing as when I viewed these decorated houses 2 years ago.

On my way back, I stopped for pizza then finally took the subway back to my hotel.

Monday – Today I worked in the Financial District and it rained all day!!

After work, I took the subway back to my hotel, I had hoped to get in a run… Nope… RAIN…

Instead, I just changed my clothes and hopped back on the subway to meet two friends for dinner.

Recognize Cari who had just arrived back from DC? The bracelet was a gift from Elizabeth

Tuesday – Back to the Financial District for work…

some sights from the area in the AM and finally some blue sky at 4 pm.

and then back on the train home. Again no time for running 😦

Wednesday – WFH day but had to go to the office, shop and prepare something for the party the next day…

For the 4th day in a row, I couldn’t fit in a run.

Thursday – Today I had to teach live and then rush off after work to my annual tennis friends holiday party…

great food, music, gifts and so much laughter ❤ my tennis friends

Friday – WFH again… Normally this is my rest day however since I had already skipped 4 days, I planned to squeeze in a run… NOPE. Snow was my excuse this time… We even had to cancel mah jongg.

At least I was able to ZOOM with my college friends…

Saturday – Long Run and Brunch.

A busy time for most of my friends. And there was the snow… Deb, Karen and I had decided to take on the path at UAlbany and then meet the others for brunch…

NOPE!! Too snowy and slippery to even drive!!!

I guess we’ll have a white Christmas…

Mid-morning, I did drag myself out of the house to get some fresh air…

Holiday celebrations continued. Today we opened gifts with my granddaughter and then went out to dinner.

Sunday – This afternoon I plan to go to the movies with my BFF and then afterward go to a restaurant to celebrate her b-day.

I loved the Broadway show so I am very excited to see the movie!!

What about that long run??

Hopefully, I can get it done at UAlbany (as long as the path has been cleared.) Maybe I’ll have company.

But brrrrr….

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – DAY OFF, walk at the Pinebush, run, ZOOM w/a friend
Tuesday – run
Wednesday – DAY OFF – Christmas, run, dinner with the family
Thursday – run
Friday- hair appt, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (and Brunch)
Sunday – walk/hike, run out with family

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – 2024 Goals
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? Attending any holiday parties? Have you see the Wicked movie? What about the weather? Does it get in the way of your running? 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.

December 20, 2024 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Fitness-Related Items I’d Like for Christmas/Hanukkah

My Christmas Wish List: Fun Christmas notebook for kids, teens, and parents. Thanksgiving gift idea. Children can write what they would like for to ...

The Topic this week is: 5 Fitness-Related Items I’d Like for Christmas/Hanukkah

1.A Gift card for a Running Store

So many things I could buy there…

2.Sunglasses

I always either lose them or break them.

Goodr Sunglasses - The OGs - Find Your Feet Australia

Goodrs are my favorites

3.Socks

Yes, I often lose one and only my good ones.

Image result for balega socks

4.Weights

Since I paused my gym memberships, these could come in handy.

Fitness Gear Coated Dumbbell - Single product

5.Entry Fee for Race

Happy Running! Are any of these on your list? What else would you like? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

December 3, 2024 by Darlene

TT: Giving Tuesday – Favorite Charities

Since today is Giving Tuesday, the topic for today is: What are your favorite charities?

I try to support the charities that are meaningful to my friends or that support cures for diseases that have taken the lives of family and/or friends.

Here are a few of my favorites:

- Michael J. Fox – my friend’s husband died of Parkinson’s.
- Team in Training – my running friend’s daughter died of blood cancer.
- Alzheimer’s Association – a friend is currently suffering
- Breast Cancer – too many women that I know have battled this disease.
- STEM – an organization that supports women who have been victims of domestic violence.
- Heart Association – this has negatively affected some friends’ husbands and family members.

Happy Running! What are your favorite charities? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

December 19, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 12.12.21-12.19.21: Let the Holiday Eating Begin..

As the title indicates, there was a whole lotta eating going on this week.

Dinner out to celebrate my BFF’s birthday, dinner out to celebrate with my walking buddies, my annual holiday tennis party, dinner out with my stepson & his wife (since since they will away for Christmas) and then the re-scheduled anniversary dinner with my mah jongg friends (to celebrate 13 years together.) ALL IN THE SAME WEEK!!

I’m pretty sure I did not run enough miles to offset those calories. Hey…tis the season, right?

The good news is that this started. I hope you joined us (and if you haven’t, it is not too late):

Last Week:

Sunday – I had run a 5k race the night before but I had registered for a local 3.5 mile race today. The race was free so I almost skipped it in favor a long run. But glad that I did not because I got to chat with many of the runners that I didn’t connect with the night before (in a much bigger race).

After some refreshments, I went out to run some more miles so I could call it a “long” run.

Monday – Due to the weekend mileage #nevermissamonday run almost did not happen. But looking at my busy schedule, I was not sure if I would have any time to run during the rest of the week.

I had to go into the office for a while so I packed some running clothes and stopped on my way home (at Six Mile Waterworks) to squeeze in a lunch run.

balmy 50 degrees (over dressed!!)

May 12, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down – 4.29.19-5.12.19: Sun and Fun

Since I was away in Florida, this is a TWO week run down.

Two weeks ago –

Monday – So today was week 7 of the Freihofer Challenge Training (FTC) group. All my Sole Sister friends skipped this run. I was proud that I dragged my tired body to it. In fact, I felt great which surprised me. The “advanced” group was running 5 one mile sprints… tempted but “no,” cautiously downgraded with my friend Deb to the Intermediate group and ran 4 easy miles. And it was one of my better training runs. Stan said it was because the day before we walked so much as recovery from the 15k on Saturday. Go figure!

Tuesday – Rest (and rainy) day ’cause I had a much needed hair appt.
Wednesday – Had planned on a FTC group run but didn’t want to wait so ran a quick few miles right after work and then went home to pack.

at the Corning Bike Path which was on my way home today

Thursday – Off to Florida on a very early morning flight. After we arrived, picked up a rental car, lunched, we chilled at the pool at our rented villas (the same ones since 2006). Of course we went to our first of many dinners out in Naples.
Friday – Started the day with a run,

followed by tennis, the beach and dinner out. Slowly acclimated to the heat and humidity.

Saturday – A lot more tennis and beach. Went for a early walk instead of a run.

After dinner, we all went to a show in town (Lost in Yonkers). A fun time, of course.

Sunday – After a late night, I had an early morning race (what was I thinking?) For the 3rd year in a row, I ran the Tropicool 5k (it was anything but cool). Too hot to be speedy but won my age group anyway. Then I rushed back to play tennis, followed by the beach and dinner out. See the pattern?

Last Week –

Monday – A similar day as the rest. A run,

tennis, the beach and dinner out. Tonight we ate at the Ritz so we could watch the sunset on the Gulf.

Tuesday – More of the same. A run,

tennis

and beach.

But we stayed in for book club night and birthday party. Lots of laughs and food.

Wednesday – Road trip day. Just a walk

and ride north to Osprey to visit Historic Spanish Point,

lunch out, and then a visit to Selby Gardens in Sarasota.

Gauguin was the featured artist this year

For my pre-birthday dinner, I requested pizza and ice cream on Fifth Avenue in Naples. (sorry no pix)

Thursday – My Birthday. So I ran with tennis sandwiched in the middle.

had to run in my tennis clothes

Then we packed and hung at the pool. One last delicious meal out before we headed to the airport. The weather had been perfect for the week. Not a drop of rain. That is until we got to the airport. A long thunderstorm caused our plane’s departure to be delayed and so we missed our connection and got stuck in Charlotte sans luggage.

Friday – I was supposed to be back at work. Instead had to fly home and skipped work and Mah Jongg. But I did manage to get in a walk in the park.

wanted to get pix before the crowds of Tulip Fest the next day

Saturday – Exhausted from my trip but had committed to run the Summer Smith Addiction Awareness Memorial 5k. Felt like crap when I got up (headache & nauseous) but felt better when I arrived and chatted with all my runner friends and STEM participants. Again the pre-race festivities moved me to tears.

the race is dedicated to someone whom I trained several years ago and others who have died due to addiction. No prs today but I did win my age group

I rushed home because I had planned to go the the Tulip Fest with Amanda (my mentee and her sons Richard & Matthew – which is an annual tradition for us.

um…they dyed their hair?! but still the cutest and we had a blast

Sunday – I had wanted to do a long run today…I have a half marathon in ONE week and my long runs have been 8m, 9m, 3m, 3m since the last one. Barbara agreed to run with me but bad weather prevailed. She went to the Y and I skipped the run entirely.

the best gifts are handmade – from Richard (mentee’s son)

This Coming Week –

Monday – 4 miles (FTC)
Tuesday – rest day, chiro appt
Wednesday – SOAR run (3 m)
Thursday – Workforce Challenge Race (3.5 m)
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – rest day, belated birthday dinner out
Sunday – Great Sacandaga Half Marathon

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big or small races on the horizon? Please share.

February 23, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Update for 2.18.19-2.24.19: On the DL?

With only 6 run/walk miles last week, I started out the week playing it safe for fear that my leg would bother me. But with my next half marathon date looming, I didn’t want to play it too safe.

Last week –

Monday – It was cold and windy as usual but the sun was out and I had the DAY OFF from work. You know I wanted to run. But I forced myself to stay home and cook and clean. Finally I couldn’t stand it anyone and I went to the gym. I walked on the treadmill and then used the bike. Thank you Hamilton for keep me sane. The problem with being inexperienced with discomfort (many of you have had niggles and such), I didn’t know what to do so I rested.
Tuesday – After no running for 4 days in a row, even though the polar vortex returned, I headed out for a short run. I knew I couldn’t run much because I had to get home to attend a webinar. My leg felt no worse but no better. So annoying.

Wednesday – Though my leg may or may not be injured, I had already made an appointment for ART so I figured I’d give it a try. It couldn’t hurt or could it? Well it hurt …a lot…but the chiro said she can fix me. She worked mostly on my calf but my ankle, hips and lower back needed adjustment as well. No running for 3 days!!!!

Kerry – my new BFF (runner & chiro)

Thursday – An ordered rest day and dinner with a former co-worker after some gym time (bike & walking on the tm).

Friday – Rest day, ART appt. #2, and evening with the mah jongg ladies. Due to all the bruising (which is normal), my chiro was a little gentler than last time and used her hands and the ultrasound device instead the metal instrument. She said the calf muscles (and ankle) seemed looser (a good sign) but my fascia tighter… Again, she realigned the hips.

Saturday – Long run Saturday with my Sole Sisters. The question was how many miles. 11 miles on the schedule but haven’t really run the last 2 weeks and my chiro said only 4 or 5 easy. So 5 miles was. There was no real pain (but there never was) and it wasn’t worse. As usual it was great catching up with my running peeps during the run and after at brunch. 3 weeks until my half. Gulp.

Sunday – A rainy day. A good day for housework, catching up on things and may be even a trip to the gym…

This Coming Week –

As you can see, my running plans are up in the air….I want to be trained for NYC but I also do not want to worsen my leg pain.

Monday – ?? miles, 3rd ART appt.
Tuesday – ?? miles
Wednesday – 4th ART appt, On-Running Clouds Swift launch Run at FF, ??? miles
Thursday – rest day, Cat Yoga
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run – ?? miles, 2 weeks until NYC Half Marathon
Sunday – rest day

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap FOR THE LAST TIME. It is hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Anyone nursing a sore something? Please share.

February 17, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.4.19-2.17.19: Racing and then Recovery

So I went to Florida, ran a half marathon and now I’m back. My next race is the NYC Half Marathon on March 17.

Two weeks ago – 2.4.19-2.10.19

Monday – 50 degrees!!! Although I ran 12 miles in the past two days, I had to go for an after work run. Three of my Sole Sisters suggested UAlbany and I never turn down company for a run.

Tuesday – Another after work run at UAlbany. We’re stuck there until all the snow melts. And again I was lucky to have the company of the two of the Sole Sisters. It was colder and windier than the day before and my legs were not feeling it. But a run is a run and now the “hay is in the barn.”

Wednesday – A rest day so I could get home to pack and get to bed early.
Thursday – Another rest day since I had to catch an early AM flight to West Palm Beach. Coincidentally, the hubby was flying to Charleston, SC for a tennis tournament and we were on the same first leg (to Charlotte). Once I arrived, I picked up my rental car and headed to Delray Beach to stay with my friend Fonda. The first thing I did was put on my bathing suit and seek out the sunshine (at the pool). Then we took off for a wildlife sanctuary where we saw loads of birds, iguanas and even an alligator.

I ended the day with my first Florida dinner – shrimp tacos and key lime pie ❤

Friday – I started the day with my first Florida run. Running in a skirt=heaven.

Then we met my two old friends, Barbara and Michelle, for brunch. After brunch, Fonda and I headed to the beach so I could soak up some Vitamin D.

Then it was time for me to head north to Hobe Sound to my friend Georgette’s, my next hostess, where I had a delicious home-cooked meal.

Saturday – I wish I could have run here but it was the day before my half. Instead, I went for a walk in the neighborhood following by a visit to Jonathon Dickinson State Park. We walked to the top of a tower and then along a nature trail.

I would have loved to stay longer but I had to get to Melbourne for packet pick up and then drive to Sebastien to my sister-in-law’s where I would be spending the night.

Unfortunately, the weather was beautiful but up north in Melbourne, it was not. It was raining and I was not able to stroll around town. So I left, had pizza & ice cream with my sister-in-law and got ready for the next day’s race.

Sunday – Race Day – Publix Florida Half Marathon. It was either drizzling or pouring the entire 13.1 miles. But the course was beautiful and I finished!! Celebrate finish lines NOT finish times, right? And I enjoyed the post-race food inspite of the weather.

I spent the rest of the day at the McKee Botanical Garden where there was an exhibit of my favorite sculptors (Seward Johnson) and then walking along the beach. Yes, the weather in Vero Beach was beautiful.

In the evening, my sister-in-law and I celebrated with a seafood dinner (and drink) along the water.

Last week – 2.11.19-2.17.19

Monday – Again, I woke to awesome weather and the warmest temps yet. I had to go for a run and decided on sunrise along the Indian River. It was breath-taking. The only downside was that I forgot that I strained something in my shin/calf the day before walking along the beach/dunes. I did the run with a lot of walking.

I stalled my visit as long as possible with another walk and a dip in the pool before heading to the airport to return home.

Tuesday – A rest day due to my leg and a snowstorm. Plus, I had to unpack so I could re-pack.
Wednesday – I took the train to NYC for work. Once I arrived, I headed to Central Park where I was scheduled to meet Elizabeth (Skirt Sports sister) for a run. I was nervous about my leg but Elizabeth was delayed at work so I just took it easy and ran/walked around 72nd St entrance to the park.

and then met her after for dinner/drinks.

always great catching with another runner

Afterward I walked 40 blocks back to my hotel.

Thursday – A long work day but I had enough time to squeeze in a short run along the High Line

still in injury denial so I ran/walked the miles

before going to see Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden. He was awesome, even better than the last time.

Friday -A rest day and the train back home.
Saturday -Normally this would have been my long run day – 10 miles was on the schedule. But I decided to be smart and rest the leg. Instead I went the gym, rode the exercise bike and then did errands before going out to celebrate a dear friend’s birthday.

Sunday – Rest Day because I volunteered at Winter Series #5 Race. 3 hours in the freezing cold but it was worth it. I got to see many running friends and provided valuable directions to those running the race. (I was stationed where the marathoners, 20 milers, 10 milers and 4.5 milers had to turn or not turn. Yes I was nervous that I would steer them wrong.)

This week –

No running plans. Waiting to see if my leg feels normal before I attempt to run. I still have 4 weeks until my half. Fingers crossed!!!!!!!!!

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Anyone else sneak off to the South to escape the polar vortex? Please share.