April 16, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: How Indoor Cycling Can Help Runners

GIPHY — Musketon - Finger lickin' good illustrations

When Peleton offered a FREE two month trial, I jumped on it. Of course, then I had to buy a stationary bike.

I bought it used on FB MarketPlace

I chose not to continue once my trial membership ended. But I still continued to use my bike on days when I do not run – so about three times a week.

and I also set up a TV so I can watch Netflix or listen to Sirius music.

Here’s FIVE reasons why:

1.To nurse injuries and to prevent future ones.

Even if you are not injured, indoor cycling is a low-impact workout, allowing your body time to recover from hours of pounding on the pavement or on the treadmill.

You can also use the bike as a warm up or cool down before and/or after a hard run.

2. To increase overall endurance.

Because it is low impact, you can spend more time on your bike than you would running on the road. This will boost overall endurance without hurting your muscles or joints.

And you can easily change the resistance and the incline (without having to search out a hill) to intensify your workout.

3. To Build Up Other Leg Muscles.

As a runner, you might think that you already have strong hamstrings, hip flexors, and calves. Those are the muscles that runners use. But during indoor cycling, you’ll build additional quad and gluteal strength. I was surprised when I started using my bike, how tired my legs were. Then I realized that I was using new muscles for the first time.

Hopefully these biking workouts will make me a stronger runner.

4. It’s Private so you can wear as little as you want.

Yup, I’m not a heavy sweater but on the bike, I seem to sweat more.

You will never see me out running in just a sports bra but in my bedroom, alone on the bike. YES! Yes! So liberating!

5. To connect with virtual friends.

Every Saturday morning at 9:30 am EST, a group of runners get on their bikes and pedal and chat for 40 minutes. We even have runners from England and the Netherlands that join in.

I so enjoy our ZOOM blogger rides

Happy Running! Do you ride a indoor bike? Do you connect virtually with friends when you bike? Do you just wear a sports bra when you ride? Any other benefits besides the ones I’ve listed? Please share.

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Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida

and add your link below:

April 13, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Favorite Podcasts

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Do you listen to podcasts while running? List some of your favorite ones.

I kinda slacked on this when I subscribed to Peleton but I did listen before and I am listening to podcasts again while running.

So here are the ones that I like (in no particular order):

Run This World– this one is done by Nicole DeBoom who was the founder of Skirt Sports. Her podcasts last as long as the average 5k run (that’s what she says but many are much longer) and her guests are so varied and yet motivating. Each one ends with the guest’s “nugget of advice.”

Run This World with Nicole DeBoom Podcast - Health Podcast | Podchaser

I’ll Have Another– I love listening to Lindsay’s guests – she interviews mostly women – some are well known but many are not. And they all have a story to tell (about running.)

Another Mother Runner – The Podcast – The host is Sarah Bowen-Shea but Dimity is often on it as well. I’ve met these two women in person and they are so entertaining. It’s no surprise that their podcasts are as well. In addition, to stories about their own running and families, they share their love of reading. In addition to Dimity, there are several other co-hosts that I enjoy listening to – Amanda, Katie, Molly, Liz, Ellison, etc. Of course, they also do interviews with famous and non-famous runners.

amr_logo1

Ali on the Run Show – I’ve always loved her blog and I’ve enjoyed all the guests that she has interviewed. The podcasts last over an hour so I’ve used them during my long runs. She also has added some shorter ones for weekday runs. I especially like her “On the Job Series” where she interviews women who are runners but also hold very interesting jobs.

Image result for ali on the run show

Fit Strong Women Over 50 – As you can tell from the title, this one is geared toward older women. But actually the title is: Becoming Elli. Elli, the Norse Goddess of “old age”, was underestimated by Thor in a wrestling match. Much to his surprise and chagrin, when Thor wrestled Elli on a dare, he lost the contest. Both Chris and Jill were inspired by Elli and they and their “older” guests have proven that we can become like Elli: surprisingly strong as we age.

Fit Strong Women Over 50

Diz Runs Radio – He has recorded almost 500 podcasts. I’ve only listed to a few but the ones I’ve heard were so inspiring and his guests were just ordinary runners like you and me.

The Morning Shakeout – On a weekly basis, Mario Fraioli interviews a wide range of athletes, coaches, and personalities on the subject of running.

the morning shakeout podcast on Stitcher

Run to the Top – Tina Muir was the original host but she left to start her own business, Then Stephanie Kay Atwood hosted for 2 years. But last year, Claire Bartholic took over. Her goal with the new show was to make it less of a celebrity-style interview and more about actionable tips to improve your running. She interviews athletes and coaches and shares their advice on how we all can become better runners.

Run to the Top Podcast | The Ultimate Guide to Running on Stitcher

She Runs It – As a ZOOMA/Skirt Sports ambassador, I do have to give a plug for this new podcast. The former Skirt Sports owner, Nicole DeBoom and the new owner, Sarah Ratzlaff, talk about many topics related to being “active” confident women.

She Runs It Podcast — ZOOMA Women's Race Series

Honestly, I could go on and on because there are SO many good podcasts out there. Obviously with a job and other activities, I don’t have time to listen to as many as I would like. When I travelled for work, these podcasts were my invaluable company on my long drives!!

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! Do you listen to podcasts? If so, which ones do you like? Please share.

April 11, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.5.21-4.11.21: Chasing Waterfalls and Tapering…

After a ugly weather week last week, this week started out promising.

The highlight of the week was that I had taken Wednesday off from work (to hike) and the weather was perfect. I used the day to continue my chase of the NYS Waterfalls.

Temps up to 60 degrees (and even 70, I think) and no rain all week. (Not great for the flowers but good for the runner/walker/hiker.)

I even reach another milestone.

I think it may be time to take out the bike for a spin….

Last Week:

Monday – I used to be so good about getting out before work and going for a walk. I have not done that in ages. I did go for my run at lunch time. It was warm but still windy. The sun was shining so I was very grateful.

overdressing seems to be my spring theme…I’ll get it right eventually. Lots of Easter eggs on the trail and my daffodils finally bloomed.

After work, I went for a walk in the park searching for signs of spring

not much to report… no sign of the infamous tulips

and then met my BFF for a long walk around our outdoor mall.

Tuesday – Another nice sunny breezy day. So why not a run on my rest day? lol

I started out on the water line but it was muddy so I switched to the neighborhood.

this run was rushed since I stopped to talk with a neighbor (she usually runs 10m everyday at 5 am and I hadn’t seen her in awhile…unfortunately she has breast cancer and is going through chemo. She continues to run only 5m and is training for the Chicago marathon). So inspired yet grateful to be healthy!!

and after work, I took a long walk on the rail trail with two friends.

we have now added after walk munchies or dinner lol

Wednesday – Re-arranged my rest day and went for a few hikes instead on my day off from work. I also had hired someone to deep clean my house (since I have been slacking in that dept and my regular cleaning lady moved away.)

As you probably know, I am waterfalls obsessed. And since I had the whole day to myself, I decided to take a long drive (1h30) to Owen D. Young. I heard that it was nice but I was not prepared for all the waterfalls in one place (plus caves and trails).

definitely worth the drive

Since I was already in the area, I Googled to see if there were any other waterfalls nearby. Yup, not too far away was Wintergreen Park and Trails.

My last stop was at Buttermilk Falls before heading home.

Thursday – A busy work day only allowed me to squeeze in a neighborhood run during lunch. And it was skirt weather. Woo Hoo!

Again, after work, I went for a long walk with friends on the rail trail. We do vary the direction now that we meet there twice a week.

Friday – A scheduled rest day. Since the weather was still amazingly nice, I did go for a few walks. I went to the local park at lunch.

not many leaves on the trees, but a children’s walk, some Easter eggs and mud.

and then it was so nice a day that I went for another hike. And of course, there was a waterfall.

Across from these trails was another one which led you to the Hudson River.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Our taper before the half marathon next Saturday. This week, we all met at the Nisky Bike Path and ran or walked our individual paces and distances and then had brunch together.

I wore different shoes and different socks and a result of one or the other got painful blisters (also could have been the humidity). A painful 10 miles but the taper is done. And brunch was great.

Sunday – Forecast called for showers so I headed out early hoping to squeeze in my hike and not get wet. I decided to go to Thacher Park where in the past I have run on some of the trails. Who knew how many waterfalls there were there…

it was warm and humid and it seemed that the rain would hold off for a while so I walked across the road and walked on another trail.

such pretty views

On my way to grocery shopping I stopped off to see if things has started to bloom….

just a start….

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – walk, run
Tuesday – run, walk with friends
Wednesday – walk, run
Thursday – rest day, bike, walk, race bib pick up, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – Druthers Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon!!
Sunday – walk/hike

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Favorite Podcasts
Friday – How Indoor Cycling Can Help Runners

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? Doing any virtual races? Any in-person races planned? Any goals for April? Is it warming up where you live? Any April showers? Please share.

April 9, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Recovering from the COVID Vaccine

Many of you most likely have not gotten both your vaccine(s) yet. But I hope at some point, you all do.

My advice is only based on personal experience. I AM NOT A DOCTOR nor do I have any medical background.

So that’s my topic for today: Five Things to Do After You Get Your COVID Vaccine

1.Exercise your Arm.

BBG Arm Workout For Beginners

Soreness at the injection site is the most common side effect of the vaccine. (BTW: I did think that my arm was more sore after the Shingles Vaccine.)

I found that when I exercised my left arm by lifting a weight throughout the day, the pain disappeared. It worked for me. Just try it.

I have also heard, for the same reason, to get the shot in your dominant arm.

2. Hydrate.

How To Be Naturally Beautiful from the Inside Out! | Living Disrobed

You may feel feverish or have a headache. I am someone who rarely drinks water. I made sure that I drank a lot of water. I think it helped. I felt fine.

3. Move.

Women Enjoying A Relaxing Winter Walk Stock Photo - Download Image Now - iStock

It is common to feel tired, achy or under the weather. You may be tempted to stay in bed and just rest. But you should not. I don’t mean run 10 miles but go for a walk, take a bike ride, or go for an easy run. I did force myself to go for a walk. I felt much better after the walk than before. I then went for a slow run the next day.

I even ran a half marathon a few days after my 2nd shot.

4. Think Positively.

Dr. Anthony Fauci Had No Side Effects After Receiving COVID-19 Vaccine | PEOPLE.com

Mind over matter, right? Don’t worry or stress about the side effects. The side effects (that I have mentioned) are usually mild and subside after a few days. They show that the vaccine is working, because the vaccine stimulates the immune system as the body forms antibodies against the virus.

No matter how awful you may feel, it’s better than getting COVID or worse giving it to someone else.

5. If your side effects are severe or last more than a few days, contact your doctor.

Extreme side effects are supposedly rare but everyone reacts differently. Do not take ibuprofen or acetaminophen, unless advised by your doctor.

Happy Running! Have you had the vaccine? If you did, did you have a reaction? Would you have done anything differently? Any other advice. Please share.

I would have gotten the vaccine in my dominant arm. I would have worried less before the vaccine about a reaction (or at least talked about it less lol).

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Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida

and add your link below:

April 6, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Five Year Predictions Past and Future

Zenaida prompted me a while back to reflect on this topic.

In August of 2015, I posted about what I hoped that I’d be doing In 5 Years. Here’s what I wrote:

Working at the same job – I am too old to change careers. I would like to afford to be retired but I doubt I will be able be.
Playing tennis – I love my friends and enjoy playing this sport on a limited basis. I won’t be playing seriously on a team but I plan to plan socially with my friends at least once a week and continue our annual tennis vacations.
Enjoying weekly Friday night mah jongg games – I play with a great bunch of women and I love the game.
Going boating in the summer on the weekends and hanging out in the bays or on the islands.
Running and racing – I hope to be still running the occasional half marathon. I hope to continue winning awards in my new age group. If I lose my mind and someone trains with me, I may have run a full marathon…but that’s not in the plan!!

Since it has been more than 5 years, I can now see if my predictions were correct:

Working at the same job –Nope. Not by choice. My position was eliminated but I have a new job which involves lots of travel (before the pandemic. Now I am working from home.)

Playing tennis – Nope. Due the new job and travel, I dropped my tennis club membership and no longer play at all. My tennis friends are still my good friends. We see each other monthly (before the pandemic) and continue to spend a week in Naples, Fla.

Enjoying weekly Friday night mah jongg games – Yes. At least before the Pandemic. I’m looking forward to playing again.

Going boating in the summer on the weekends – Yes. But many of our boating friends have moved or sold their boats. Still I am enjoying the lake’s beauty with the hubby.

Running and racing – Yes. I am happily still running and racing. And I just ran my 43rd Half marathon (+6 more virtuals) and my first MARATHON in 2019!

me? a marathoner! – a surprise!!

So now what about in the Next 5 Years?

I hope that I will be HEALTHY. – As we age (and I will be over 70!), we unfortunately may be losing some of our friends. (I have already lost several friends to cancer.) Good health is key to all things in life.

I hope to still be RUNNING and RACING. I don’t plan on another marathon and it may not be 1000 miles run a year. But I hope (as long as my feet let me) to be out there running with my friends and competing in races.

I hope to stay in touch with all the friends that I have made through the various activities that I have participated in (school, work, mah jongg, quilting, knitting, reading, tennis, running, blogging, etc). As they say “Friends are the family that we choose for ourselves.” My friends have always been important me. And social media has made it so much easier to stay in touch. I hope to make even MORE friends.

friends for over 50 years!

I see myself still working. I am not a stay at home “Suzy Homemaker” kind of person. I would LOVE to work LESS but we’ll see how it goes. I enjoy having $$ to do what I need to do. That means working.
Hopefully I will continue to take race-cations and return to FRANCE!! – I love to travel and I have seen some wonderful places due to traveling there for a race. However, Paris is still #1.

I need to go back!! Maybe in 2022?

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! 5 years ago, what do you think you would have predicted you’d be doing now and what about in five years? Please share.

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April 4, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.29.21-4.4.21: What Happened to Spring?

We got lucky with spring temps last week but this week, it seemed like winter again. Typical spring in the NE.

Fingers crossed that spring will return next week again.

Last Week:

Monday – Nasty weather in the morning – cloudy, cold with very high winds. I decided to postpone my run until after work. At least the sun came out and it warmed up a bit but it still was very windy.

started out in the neighborhood but ended up on the rail trail – new sighting: a dog grave

Then I had to rush home for a mah jongg group book ZOOM. We discussed The Book of Lost Names. So fun to see everyone again (at least virtually.)

Tuesday – A busy work day so I decided not to run and instead do a quick walk in the park at lunch

oops I forgot my phone so no pics. Did you walk in the park today??

and then a long walk with friends after work (followed by dinner with them). Unfortunately the evening ended badly with either a stomach flu or food poisoning (haven’t been that sick since I was kid.)

Wednesday – Still a windy day and rain/snow predicted for later and tomorrow. Still not feeling 100% but decided to try an easy run at lunch. I drove to a nearby neighborhood.

warm but very windy, saw my first daffodils and didn’t puke…win win.

After work, I always have that cooped up feeling and decided that I needed some fresh air. And it hadn’t started raining…yet.

a long walk at Normanskill Farms = just what the doctor ordered

Thursday – Ugly rainy day. Bike time at lunch and a walk with friends after work (back at the outside mall to stay dry). On my drive home, it started to sleet then snow.

still no blooms…poor cold daffodils

Friday – Winter temps returned. Managed to squeeze in a cold walk at lunch. April (snow) showers bring May flowers, right?

maybe that’s why my Christmas Cactus is confused…

After work, I resorted to a mall walk and was treated to this on my way home. Glad I didn’t skip the walk.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. 12 miles on my schedule and I picked Zim Smith for our group run. We hadn’t been there in ages and we all love brunch after at Leah’s Cakery. Of course, that was the plan before our unexpected snowfall. Fortunately the path was clear, the sun was shining, no wind and the chilly temps actually were perfect for a long run. I ran the first 7 miles with Stan and Sherry. Luckily Stan left since his pace is way faster than mine. I ran the next 4 with Sherry and dragged myself through the last mile solo.

the best part was the chocolate milk, quiche and brownie recovery (and yes it was chilly after when you are sweaty).

Sunday – Hiking Sunday continued but an early one since it was Easter and I had to go to dinner at my MIL’s. I was not expecting how much I loved this one (Beebe Hill Trails). A decent climb, pond and creek view, lean-to, old cemetery and a Fire Tower!! (more pics on FB & IG)

I need to go back when I have more time to explore the other trails here.

After a huge meal and this:

Ever heard of Duck Donuts? My first experience. Yum.

I decided on a second hike. This time it was a trail I had found out about but had forgotten about. It lets you view the Cohoes Falls from the opposite side. Th eonly problem was the MUD. I was covered to my knees lol

but I did make it to the end

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run, walk with BFF
Tuesday – rest day, bike, walk with friends
Wednesday – DAY OFF, run, hike
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – Long Run (Taper 10)
Sunday – rest day, bike, walk/hike

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Five Year Predictions: Past and Future
Friday – Advice for Recovering from the COVID Vaccine

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Doing any virtual races? Any in-person races planned? Any goals for April? Is it warming up where you live? Any April showers? Please share.

April 2, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for April ’21

It’s that time of the month…

Starbucks Coffee City Mug Collection- Florida, 16 Oz Cup

time to join up with Coco & Deborah
for their ultimate coffee date.

I am very excited to be taking another trip down to Florida.

Yes, it is warming up here but….no beaches!!!

ahhhh

1. Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I am relieved that NYS has lifted its quarantine requirement for traveling out of state beginning April 1.

Apps to Let Travelers, Others Show COVID-19 Status

is this in our future?

What are the travel requirements in the state where you live?

2.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that this girls vacation started back in 2002 but it has been annual Naples, Fla thing since 2005. It was to play tennis and take lessons so we could win our team matches. Things have changed. At least with me. I quit team playing, then I quit regular play and then I quit tennis totally.

It will be a little scary to return to the courts after two years.

at least I still have all the tennis clothes lol

Have you returned to a sport that that you hadn’t done in a while? Swimming? Biking? Other? How did you feel?

3.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that this is the first time in a long time that I will NOT be racing during my vacation.

The 5k that I usually run is scheduled for the Saturday after I return home….. next year hopefully!

: 2019

: 2018

: 2017

Do you still go on vacations without a race planned? I usually do not.

4.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that although I plan to play tennis every morning, I will get up early and run first. Unfortunately, there will be no sunrise pics. Our villa is not near the beach (I would drive but I will not have a car.)

Do you always run during your vacations?

5.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that on each Naples vacation, my goal is to get my friends to be more active. The last time we went to Naples, for my birthday, I begged them to go to a park and hike (a few did lol). I will try again this year.

Do you try to get others to be active during vacations (even if they prefer to just relax)?

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Any trips planned? 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 bloggers.

March 30, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Goals. Do You Set Them?

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Do you set a weekly goal? Monthly? Yearly?

As you may know, I am not really a goals person.

Last year, I thought I should have a “big hairy” goal. So I decided that I would run one half marathon each month.

Well, you know how that worked out. Hello, Pandemic!

I don’t post weekly or monthly goals or my progress on such.

I do obviously have a lot of goals. These are yearly goals and I will access my success at the end of the year rather than weekly or monthly:

Run at least 3 miles twice during the week.

Go for a walk or hike on non-running days.

Run long on the weekend (10 miles if able).

Continue to connect safely with friends on runs, walks and hikes.

Go to my gym (when it opens) once a week.
Sign up for in-person races (once they are scheduled).

Do some speed work (on a track) to prepare for shorter races (once I sign up for some.)

Add some strength training somewhere somehow (LOL)

Go on a race-cation in February (if race is still scheduled).

Plan a race-cation for the Fall.
Once I start traveling again for work, run in NYC (for the sunsets and friend connections).
Continue to blog at least once or twice a week.

Run 1000 miles for the year.

Complete more challenging hikes.

Stay healthy.

I posted these goals last December. It’s still early in the year. Maybe I will re-assess and change them at the end of June. But so far, they all seem realistic and achievable.

Maybe in 2022 or 2023, I’ll set another “big hairy” goal.

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! What kind of goals do you set, if any? Please share.

March 28, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.22.21-3.28.21 – Finally Spring Weather

I have been complaining about it being cold and windy.

just last week

I’m happy to report there were days warm enough to wear a skirt and tank!!! (However, next week we will not be as lucky.)

Last Week:

Monday – Unfortunately I got dressed in the morning but didn’t get out to run until after work. But it was a very tiring day and my run just felt off (or maybe I was overdressed).

ran at UAlbany…not a good run but 3 miles nonetheless

Followed up my run with a long walk with my BFF (sweaty so now I felt chilled oy!)

Tuesday – Another picture perfect running day. Today I decided to squeeze in a neighborhood run during lunchtime. I dressed appropriately and my energy level may not have been any better than Monday but I had different expectations.

enjoyed the sunshine and used my walk breaks to photograph signs of spring

After work, I met up with a friend for a walk on the rail trail.

we got lucky and found several painted rocks

Wednesday – I was debating on whether to run or have a rest day. Well, the weather made my decision. It started raining earlier than predicted so I was going to skip my run and bike instead. But then the rain stopped so off I drove hoping to get in a few. I didn’t run where I had planned because I wanted to stay close to my car in case of a downpour.

2 miles are better than none but got back to my car pretty soggy lol

Thursday – 60 degrees!! Woo Hoo. Of course I was excited to get in a run after yesterday’s rain. I drove into town during lunch. Unfortunately it was cloudy so it didn’t feel as warm as Tuesday. Once I started running, I realized that it was humid so a tank would have been a better option.

and more painted rock sightings 🙂

After work, I was back on the rail trail for a walk with two friends. It was even warm enough to have wine and appetizers outside post-walk.

my friend decided to make her own rock

Friday – A scheduled rest day and this week it worked out perfectly since it was a rainy morning and a very windy evening. I did a lot of yard work at lunch (X training, right?) and then walked in the mall after work.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. As I mentioned last week, now all the snow and ice has melted which gave us many choices on places to do a long run. Someone suggested a run on a new bike path because it was hilly (Some of us are running a hilly half marathon in a few weeks.) I was very skeptical about this. I never train on hills and in a race, I walk them if they are steep. I even considered running alone on the flat Corning bike path. Fortunately Sherry agreed to run with me and then we met everyone else after for brunch. The weather gods were wonderful and it was beautiful out.

we both got very sweaty as it was sunny out…still working on dressing correctly for spring

After grocery shopping, I was back at it again with more x-training or yard work

Sunday – I was afraid Hiking Sunday would have to be postponed due to rain and wind. But I headed out early, drove quite a ways south and was able to cover some trails and see a waterfall. I wanted to explore some more trails but I am glad I did not. It started to pour as soon as I left.

there was no ice or mud…definitely worth a trip to Bash Bish Falls.

Stuck indoors, I spent the rest of the day decluttering my closets.

This Coming Week –

Monday – run, walk
Tuesday – rest day, bike, walk with friends
Wednesday – run. walk
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – Long Run (12 m)
Sunday – bike, hike

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Doing any virtual races? Any in-person races planned? Is it warming up where you live? Any signs of spring? Do you de-clutter your clothes before a new season? Please share.

March 26, 2021 by Darlene

Five Runfessions for March ’21

It’s that time again. Time to get things off my chest with Marcia’s Runfessions at Marcia’s Healthy Slice…

1. I runfess…

I am still a Skirt Sports ambassador but I have NOT bought a thing this year. In fact, I am not even tempted. It’s not that I dislike their clothes, it’s that I don’t NEED anything!

I own so many tanks and skirts already….

If you are an ambassador for a product, do buy their items?

2. I runfess…

That being said, I am still on the hunt for the shoe that will make my foot pain disappear. I bought a new brand, KURU, that I had never heard of because it boasted being for those with all my foot problems (bunion, hammertoe, neuroma).

They are comfortable but I doubt they will work for running – too stiff, too heavy, etc.

But I do a lot of walking and I will use them for that (and not wear out my running shoes.)

Do you wear different shoes for walking than running? Have you ever heard of this brand??

3.I runfess…

I already signed up for a half marathon for next year. Yes, that far in advance. I had deferred this race this year so I wanted to make sure I didn’t lose my money. You could register for free if you deferred.

12th Florida Marathon and Half Marathon (Publix Florida Marathon & 1/2) 2021. Melbourne, Florida, USA. February 2021 | LetSportPeople.com

Feb. 12, 2022 in Melbourne, FL.

Anyone else register for a 2022 race?

4. I runfess…

Although I registered that race, they said that I could defer again to 2023. My sister-in-law sold her house there. That was one of the reasons I chose that race. I may instead re-do the one I ran this year if it is back on the original course.

Fort Lauderdale again in 2022?

Do you run repeat races or do you prefer to run new ones?

5.I runfess…

I was thrilled with my PW at my last race. I’m a pretty competitive person and before the pandemic, I would have been disappointed that my finish time was over 2 minutes slower than normal. But nope. I didn’t care one bit. Once normal racing opens back up, I hope I can hold onto this attitude. Easy short weekday runs, long slow weekend runs and lots of time on the trails instead of drills and training plans!!!