October 5, 2016 by Darlene

Wednesday Word: Fulfill

Deb Runs

Every Wednesday, the Deb from Deb Runs will be providing a word about which to blog. Kind of like a nice little blog prompt. Posts can be fitness or health related, but don’t have to be, so really anyone can play along. Just be sure to link up with InLinkz on Deb’s main post, and share the love by reading and commenting on other’s participant’s posts.

This week’s word is: Fulfill.

Do I feel fulfilled when I win a tennis match or complete a half marathon or achieve a PR?

Not really…

Of course, I am happy. I am proud. I am over the moon.

Maybe it’s the teacher in me, but I don’t feel fulfilled unless I share something with someone.

First it was my knowledge and appreciation of the French language and its culture.

Then it was my computer expertise and experience in using technology tools to further learning.

But how does running fulfill me?

It’s when someone becomes a runner because I am one.

my Russian friend Anna

Also two co-workers where I used work started running (because of me they said) and my friend Natalie who I play Mah Jongg with.

It’s when someone crosses the finish line because I helped them train.

my STEM mentee. Kelly

I think that I also helped those early SRM runners. in their first 5k attempt. (They have since surpassed me in distance and speed.)

Back: Melissa, Amanda, me, Felice, Jen, Janis, Jen, Lisa; front: Bridget, Suzy (Bridget's FB photo)

Janis, Jen, Bridget and others

It’s when someone gets faster because I ran with them.

my current running partner Alyssa – I’m not sure it is true but she says I make her faster

Happy Running! What makes you feel fulfilled?

October 4, 2016 by Darlene

Apple Run 5K Race Recap & TOTR

apple5k

I ran this race in 2014 because 2 ladies whom I met at a previous race raved about it. Now it’s become one of my favorite races.

: Apple Run 2014

: Apple Run 2015

It didn’t hurt that in 2014, I finished this race in 27:47 and won 1st in my age group and in 2015, I finished in 28:01 and won 2nd.

That being said, on a weekend where there was good number of local races (including the Susan Komen Race for the Cure), I chose to drive 45 minutes to run this race.

According to the website, it is a looped, flat course. Even though I ran it twice already, I didn’t remember much about the course. I run so many races, they all blend together sometimes.

Apparently we quickly switched from summer to fall in a few days. But at least the predicted rain did not come. It was when I left the house pretty chilly and damp.

I am the crazy person who refuses to wear capris or tights before Thanksgiving. But I decided for some strange reason to change from my tank to a long sleeved shirt today (Big mistake!!)

I arrived about 30 minutes before the start of the race which starts and ends at the middle school in Burnt Hills.

sporting my Skirt Sports running attire, of course

You’ll notice in the above picture that I have my Garmin on my right wrist and that’s my new Apple Watch on the other wrist. I usually have my Garmin on the left wrist but I switched them. I planned to use the Garmin for the race since I hadn’t tried the GPS functionality of the watch yet and then later try out the Apple watch.

In the gym, I picked up my race packet and was surprised that they had chips for your shoe. I almost forgot to get one. It’s been awhile since I have had to use one.

: a cool backpack filled lots of goodies

I bumped into the 2 older ladies that I see at most races that I run. We chatted for awhile before the race.

Then I saw Tom, the crazy guy that I see at most of my races. We posed for pics.

apple-run1

apple-run2

Finally I spotted Sue who had recommended this race. (Her Connecticut friend Ilsa couldn’t come.) We started together and she’s my competition (but she hasn’t been racing much.)

Ilsa, Sue & I

Soon it was time to head outside. It was then, looking at what other (serious) runners were wearing that I realized that the shirt I had on might have been the wrong choice.

Tom was running with this charity group

I lined up in front because there were so many kids running this race (The whole girls hockey team and cross country team, I think). Then Sue shouted out to me and we started talking. She was back a ways and then all of a sudden, the race started. With no chip timing, this was Race Fail #1.

Runners head up Lake Hill Road for the 22nd Annual ...

photo from the Gazette

I started to make up for my slow start but with all those kids in the way, it was impossible. I also noticed up ahead was my age group competition. She beat me last year but she is super fast and was slowly disappearing from my view.

So I just decided to enjoy the race. Then I noticed that my Garmin was still on 0. I must have pushed the wrong button. It was confusing wearing it on the other wrist. So I started it about 1/2 mile late. Race Fail #2.

As a result, my Garmin was pretty useless and I didn’t look at it for the whole race.

I love the course although it does feel like you’re running on a slight uphill the whole time. There are only 2 short downhills and they’re during the last mile.

The race course is a loop first through country roads and then around a residential neighborhood and then back along a different country road.

There was someone calling out times at mile 1 which for me was between 8:55 and 9. At least that was better than last week. At the halfway point, there was a water stop but I chose not to stop.

That’s when I decided to see what would happen if I ran the whole race without stopping to walk. I can’t remember the last time I did that…it’s been years.

Though the temp was in the 5o’s, it was humid. It had rained all night and looked like it may start again. I was getting increasing warmer and warmer. I regretted not wearing a tank. I was sweating and very uncomfortable. Race Fail #3.

Finally, I came to home stretch. When I saw the clock, I wasn’t surprised that I wasn’t close to a PR but I did want to finish under 28 minutes. I ran as fast as I could and crossed at 27:48.

I was happy. Not as fast as my first Apple Run but faster than last year.

I waited for Susan to finish. She hadn’t run a race since this race last year so she did great.

Then I had to wait a while for Tom to cross with his group.

the race raised $2000 to buy 2 more wheelchairs like Seamus’ here

Inside there were pizza, bagels, fruit, etc. I had 2 pieces of pizza and a bagel and waited with my friends for the awards.

The results were the same as last year. I was 2nd and Sue third.

As always, I enjoyed this race and plan to run this one again next year.

My splits for 2.94 mi

mile 1 – 9:05
mile 2 – 8:49
mile 3 – 8:42
26:07

Could that be negative splits? How did that happen? Without walking, I really felt that I was running so much slower each mile. Without a watch, I had no idea of my pace.

My running, however, was not over for the day. 10 miles was on the schedule in preparation for next Sunday’s half marathon. So I drove to the Zim Smith Bike Path. It has become one of my favorite running routes.

Unfortunately, I had to run in my sweaty shirt. I was chilled at first but then warmed up.

the leaves are beginning to drop and turn orange. this will be a pretty trail in a few weeks

My legs were definitely tired. This always happens when I run a race for my first few miles of a long run. But I was excited to try out my new Apple Watch.

I set the Activity App for 7 miles and ran to the end of the trail and then turned around.

I didn’t have the watch do anything fancy. I’m not sure yet if it can but it shows your heart rate, distance, current pace and average pace which is all I need. I have never used intervals even on my Garmin.

I was walking at this point

It was a nice run. Lots of of running and walking when I felt like it. Nothing to write home about. My pace was very slow but I’m fine with it. All I cared about was that my last long run was DONE!!

Hip Hip Hooray

The best part was that I parked my car at Leah’s Cakery. I planned to have lunch there as a reward for having completed 10 miles!

The food there is great and the people who run the restaurant are so nice.

I had a portobello mushroom, tomato, cheese sandwich with the best chocolate milk ever!

You didn’t think I’d skip dessert, did you? It was a tough decision but I chose the cranberry apple pie.

Back to my Apple Watch, I am pleased so far. It syncs with my iphone and gives you stats on your run.

I delete my info right away and I probably wouldn’t even ever look. I am only interested in my pace when I am running a race.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

This week’s topic is Bucket list race: Where do you dream about running?

So we have the unrealistic bucket list race:

Running in France (remember I used to be a French teacher)

either in Paris:

or the south of France:

For both I would need more $$$ and more time off.

Then we have the realistic bucket list race:

Running in NYC (my second favorite city after Paris)

either the NYC Half Marathon

Image result for NYC Half

or the Brooklyn Half Marathon

Image result for Brooklyn Half

Both are lotteries so I can hope…

I have a few more on my list:

Happy Running! Which race(s) are on your bucket list?

October 3, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was our second Troy Turkey Trot Training group run. Again my legs were tired from the running that I did on Sunday. When this happens, I can’t take full advantage of the training group drills. But I did my best but it was tough. Thankfully, it got dark before we could run another hilly loop.

Tuesday – Just work with a short walk at lunch and tennis in the evening. We went out to dinner after and I shared a pizza. No dessert!
Wednesday – I met up with Alyssa for a run before my STEM volunteering. The weather was perfect. I am still dragging. Luckily, Alyssa continued on her own for another loop and my STEM group is doing the Couch to 5k walk/run.

Afterward I met my BFF for some steps in the mall.

Thursday – My hair appointment interfered with my planned run. (Hair color is important!!) Afterward I wanted to squeeze in a short run before it got dark but it was my MIL’s 91st birthday and I had to stop by for dinner & cake. (Another skipped run! Grrrr!)

ziti, meatballs, lasagna, rum cake – Oh my!

It was nice having all the family together – my MIL, BIL & his son, SIL, 2 stepsons & their girlfriends & my hubby (In the picture above are my MIL, nephew, BIL, sons’ girlfriends)

Friday – Rest day but at least I walked at lunch. In the evening, I had my weekly mah jongg game (at my house)

Saturday – I ran a 5K race. No PR but 2nd in my AG. This is one of my favorite 5ks.

Afterward, I ran almost 7 more miles. I drove to the Zim Trail which has become my favorite place to do a long run (Could it be Leah’s cakery?)

Sunday – I thought we’d go boating today but the weather was iffy so my hubby signed up for two tennis tournaments. I did lots of cleaning up around the house and went for a walk in the mall. (There may have been some retail therapy involved too.)

18 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days.

This Week:

Monday – Turkey Trot Training group run (3 miles)
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 4 mile run with friends+ volunteering with STEM group
Thursday – 4 mile run, dinner out some former co-workers
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, boating ??
Sunday – Ramblefest Half Marathon!!

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races?

September 29, 2016 by Darlene

Friday Five: My New Watch

It’s Friday so I am linking up with three DC area bloggers Mar at Mar On the Run, Cynthia at You Signed Up For What?! and Courtney from Eat Pray Run, DC . Anyone can join with their own Friday Five post (yes, it must be a Friday Five!!) They encourage you to visit other blogs on the linkup, comment, share and engage!

My Friday Topic is Five Reasons I Bought the Apple Watch 2:

My hubby knows that I’m a geek and I like techie toys so he has been wanting to buy me the Apple Watch. I resisted last year for Christmas and my Birthday. It was ridiculously expensive and I didn’t Think that I really needed one.

My biggest need would eventually be a new GPS watch.

I love it and it still works. It’s also a conversation starter at races: “Wow! I’ve never seen one so big!!”

I’ve only been using it for races trying to extend its life. Otherwise, I use the Runkeeper app on my iphone if I am unsure of the distance.

After a stressful summer, I decided that if I ever got a job, I would reward myself with an Apple watch.

And I did get a job after 12 weeks of searching but was informed that a new and improved Apple watch was coming out in September. So I decided to wait.

And I am glad I did!

The Apple Watch 2 has a GPS!!

I will probably still wear my old Garmin to races when I care about pace and time. But now, I don’t have to keep taking my iphone out of my pocket or race belt to see how far I’ve run.

2. The Apple Watch 2 is water-resistant and can be submerged up to 50 metres.

Image result for aplle watch 2 waterproof

I won’t have to worry if it gets wet while running or splashed when out in the boat.

3. The Apple Watch is also a fitness tracker.

I won’t have to wear my watch and my Fitbit at the same time.

Plus I had to take out my iPhone in order to see how many steps I had many time during the course of each day. Very annoying.

4. The Apple Watch has a lot of cool features.

For example, it shows your heart rate.

Image result for aplle watch 2 heart rate

There a mindfulness breathing app plus many other tools.

Image result for aplle watch 2 breathing app

5. You can do so many tasks by just talking (to Siri.)

You can ask her to send or respond to a text, send an email …

Image result for aplle watch 2 siri text

…or even play songs, etc.

Image result for aplle watch 2 siri song

I only started wearing it yesterday so I will give you a more in depth review in a few weeks. But I think I am going to love it.

Anyone want to buy a year old Fitbit?

Happy Running! Anyone else own an Apple Watch?

September 29, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: Random Stuff

thinking out loud

Since it is Thursday, I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

Three and Done

They say bad things happen in threes.

During my proctoring on Saturday, the bottom of my clog fell off. I normally have running shoes in my trunk but I recently cleared everything out. So I walked around barefoot until I figured out that I could rip off the bottom of the other shoe so I could walk. Grrr!!
Again during my proctoring, the student taking the exam opened her water which turned out to be fizzy water and it exploded all over her test and answer sheet. She hadn’t started the test yet but now she had to completely refill out her answer sheet thus adding more time to my day!! Ugh!!
I brought a cool travel mug to work. I love to get Starbucks everyday but I decided to economize and use Starbucks Kcups with flavor creamers instead.

Well, like my shoe, it was probably old and it fell apart.

Need to buy new shoes and new mug!! All is good now!

Impromptu Race Sign Up

Guilty as charged.

Image result for best damn race new orleans

New Orleans March 25, 2017

I probably won’t be able go (unless there’s a miracle). But I logged on with everything filled out in advance to get the $1 race fee. I did not but registered for $10. Still not a bad price. If only I lived closer.

Anyway, I think I will probably defer it until next year.

Speed Drill

If you read my blog, you may notice that all my training runs are just easy runs. All are easy. The pace depends on whom I am running with and if I am solo, it is pretty slow….

This past Monday at my Troy Turkey Trot group training, we had to run a easy long loop, a pickup following by a walk. The pickups were for .8 mile each. We did this 4 times and where we run is VERY hilly. Luckily it got dark or we may have done more. The toughest 4 miles ever.

It sucked but in a good way, if you know what I mean.

Unmotivated Half Marathon

My last half marathon was supposed to be a training run for this upcoming one. But it went better than expected. In fact, it was 2nd best half marathon time and I won 3rd in my age group.

So I skipped my long run last weekend and I am thinking about doing the same this weekend. My goal race is now a “I’ll just do it and get the medal” race. I don’t really care how fast.

I hope I get my mojo back for Panama City Half on Dec. 3.

Desserts

I have been on a dessert rampage lately.

I’m not sure why. Maybe because I am so frustrated at my job.

Last week, I think I went out to eat almost every night and had a disgustingly good dessert each time.

just one of many

Happy Running! Have you had any unlucky things happen to you lately? Do you do the recommended speed drills? Ever run a half that you are not motivated to train for? Do you ever overdo on sweets?

September 27, 2016 by Darlene

Falcon 5K Race Recap & TOTR

So many races to choose from this weekend but I chose this one.

Not for the course but simply because it was on Sunday and my tennis friend (the one who started me running) was going to do the race and we hardly ever run together.

racing together back in November

I am familiar with the course. I used to run in this park quite often. It is pretty but hilly. What I do not like about this race is the fact that you repeat the loop. I always want to done after the first time around.

falcon5k

I ran a race on this course a few years ago and my time was 28:16. So I guess that was the time I was aiming for. The big difference is that I didn’t have any half marathons on the schedule that fall. I ran one a week ago. I also have another in 2 weeks!! That meant that I needed to add more miles after the race.

I woke up not in the mood to race.

I had a very frustrating Saturday. I had planned to help out a friend and proctor the LSATs, then drive to a former professor’s house to help her with her computer and then in the evening, go to the movies with friends.

I didn’t realize that I would be proctoring special accommodations and that I would be there for 7 1/2 hours. At that point, I wasn’t sure that I would have enough time to visit the professor and get to the movies. So I postponed the visit until Sunday.

I had thought about going up to the lake on Sunday after the race but now that wouldn’t be possible.

Anyway, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Finally we had some cooler weather. When I left my house, it was in the 40s but with bright sunshine. I refuse to dress as if summer is over. I’ll be wearing those capris and tights for many many months. So I shivered in a skirt and wore a jacket over my short sleeve shirt until the start of the race. (I almost wore a tank.)

I parked about 1/2 mile away and ran slowly to the start.

When I arrived, I got a text that my friend had decided to bail on the race. I was disappointed but I immediately found some runners that I knew. I also ran into some people that I used to work with.

with Tom & Sherry

We hung out and chatted for a while. It warmed up quickly and I shed my jacket.

sleeveless tech shirt

It was soon time to start but we realized that we were at the finish line not the start.

So we walked up a hill to the start.

I should mention that this race was run for the high school booster club. So there were a lot of kids running the race.

Were you Seen at the Albany Booster Club's Falcon 5K & Fun Run in Washington Park in Albany on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016? Photo: Diane Wilson

photo from the Times Union

The start was tricky….trying to run around the kids plus not getting run over by any. I knew right away that this was not going to be a good race. I was running as fast as I could and I was not moving. My first mile is usually in the 8’s but it was 9:22. Yikes!

photo from the TU

I love the course. It is very pretty especially when you run around the lake. And this time, the second loop didn’t even bother me. But there are hills. I was determined not to walk. I even passed the water stops.

I was not getting any faster so I finally gave up and walked during the 3rd mile. Luckily the finish was after a downhill so I sprinted as fast as I could so I would not finish over 29 minutes. And I crossed at 28:39.

Splits:

mile 1: 9:22
mile 2: 9:24
mile 3: 9:21
.1 – 6:50

28:36 (Garmin time)

Tom and Sherry had already finished so we hung out and got some food while waiting for the results.

found my friend’s granddaughter & boyfriend

photo by the TU

It seemed to take forever but I guess it was worth the wait since we all won.

I came in first, got my medal and had to rush off.

abcf5k

2 professors from where I used to work (the one taking the photo and the one with the medal)

It was much later than I realized so I had to run back to my car. I rushed to Best Buy to pick up something I had on order and then stopped on my way home to run. I had already run 1/2 mile to and from the race so I needed to run 5-7 more miles…. in a half hour. Ha ha ha!!

I got in two miles and called it a day. 6 interrupted miles for my last long run….it will have to do.

I was able to get to the professor’s house and help her. It took no time at all (if I had known, I could have done it on Saturday.) Then I went grocery shopping, weeded and finished the laundry.

I was sad to miss out on a beautiful boating day. There may not be many more this season.

our friend Ron with my hubby

Next weekend, I get to do it all over again.

apple5k

A Saturday 5K and hopefully some extra miles to prepare for my October 9 half marathon. And I am leaving Sunday open for boating.

And since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life!

for

Today’s topic is The most challenging aspect of running right now is _______.

My answer is FITTING IT ALL IN!!!!

Family, friends, work, housekeeping, training runs, races, tennis, gym (yes, order here matters).

I don’t know how you working moms do it. I just have to take care of myself (My hubby is pretty self sufficient) and I struggle everyday to fit in my runs and not neglect the rest of my life. In the scheme of things, running is not a priority. But I do want to train adequately for my races.

Any advice, you superwomen?

The second most challenging thing (because I can never stick to one thing) is improving BOTH my 5k and my half marathon times.

When I race and train long, I run slower, of course. I haven’t figured out how to get faster on those short races. But I don’t want to give up half marathons. So the answer may be that I can’t run faster 5ks and faster half marathons at the same time.

Any advice?

Happy Running! What challenges you the most in your running?

September 26, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was our first Troy Turkey Trot Training group run. So even though I ran 13.1 miles the day before, I had to go. It was a kind of reunion with the 10K runners. I just took it very slow. My favorite coach Patrick was leading the intermediate group so we had a new guy. He had up run outside the park and UPHILL for the first half of the run.

Tuesday – First night of indoor tennis. Since I started back at work, I haven’t played at all. Glad to get a little exercise and meet up with friends.

Wednesday – Unfortunately I had to miss my STEM volunteering since I had dinner plans with my tennis friends. I also had to work late so I had to skip my run.

always fun with these guys

Thursday – I discovered a walking trail near where I work so I don’t have to walk around the shopping mall.

Processed with Snapseed.

I met Alyssa and Barbara for a run after. It was warm (again!) but we had a pretty good run.

Afterwards, I met a friend for dinner and drinks at an Irish pub.

tart cheery hard cider, curry chicken salad & split the Guinness cheescake

Friday – Since I skipped my run on Wednesday, I decided to run today. Natalie agreed to accompany me.

Afterwards, I had my weekly mah jongg game.

Saturday – Today I proctored the LSATs (where I used to work) for 7 1/2 hours. (I had thought it would be only 3 hours and I would have time to visit a former professor to help her on her computer but I did not have time so I postponed it until Sunday.)

no exercise but i finished knitting a sock snd read a great book.

In the evening I went to the movies with friends.

so fun – really enjoyed it!

Sunday – Albany Booster Club Falcon 5K race. I had planned on another flatter course but got talked into this one by a friend. My friend did not show but it was still a fun race. The weather was perfect. However my legs were more tired than I expected (from those 13.1 miles last weekend?) so this was one of my slowest 5ks this year.

still won 1st in my age group

Afterwards I had planned to run more miles and make it my long run. However, I had to go to a former professor’s house to help her with her computer. I had stuff to do around the home. I had to go grocery shopping, etc. So it didn’t happen. I ran 1/2 mi to and from the race and 2 miles after. 6 miles for the day instead 11. C’est la vie!

15.4 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days. (recovery week)

This Week:

Monday – Turkey Trot Training group run (3 miles)
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 4 mile run with friends + volunteering with STEM group
Thursday – rest, hair appt
Friday – rest, mah jongg chez moi
Saturday – 5k race + 7 more
Sunday – boating?

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races?

September 23, 2016 by Darlene

Friday Five: Missing The Old Job

If you read my blog, you know that I was laid off from my job after 10 years and now I have a new one.

My Friday Topic is Five Reasons I Miss My Old Job. That is the running related reasons.

1. The treadmill

dreadmill

Ok. I hate the treadmill. But it was really convenient to have one in the building to squeeze in a lunchtime run and after work, if it were raining or too icy to run outdoors.

Now, I have to drive to my free gym. There’s one at work but you have to pay to use it. 😦

2. Nearby Running Routes

along the lake in the park

I was fortunate to work near a beautiful park and many city neighborhoods.

annual Tulips in the park

Now I work near an outdoor shopping center and some main roads.

Now I have to drive to nearby UAlbany to run around the campus.

3. The Track

The track was another nearby place to run during lunch or after work. It was great for speed workouts or just when you wanted a surface easy on the feet.

Now I have to drive to run on a college or high school track. (And I doubt that I will.)

4. Running during lunch

I used to have my own office plus an hour for lunch. Especially when it wasn’t so hot, I would change into my running clothes and go for a run during lunchtime.

Now I have a cubicle and only 1/2 hour for lunch. It is convenient to walk around the shopping center (where there is a Starbucks) but that’s about it. My running is now done after work unless I drag myself out of bed in the morning. (I also go to work an hour earlier.)

5. Running Conversations

selfie with a professor & the Dean after the Freihofer’s 5K

Where I used to work, there were so many staff and faculty who were runners. We participated in races together (Corporate Challenge and Charity Races) and kept up-to-date on each other’s successes (and injuries.) I even inspired two co-workers to start running.

Race for the Cure team

** Enough time off for race-cations.

race-cation in Sarasota, FL

In my old job, I got 6 weeks off plus 2 weeks at Christmastime. I used to take at least two race-cations each year in addition to Fridays off to run some NYC races.

Now, I only get 3 weeks off per year (and nothing for the first 6 mos.)

** I also miss the PEOPLE, the things I did for my job, the salary and the benefits!!!

Not to be a Debbie Downer, there are some positives:

I had 12 weeks off this summer – PAID!! I was able to do a lot of hiking, running, boating and playing tennis.
I don’t have to worry anymore about finding a job, earning a paycheck and having health insurance.
I am learning new things.
I am meeting new people.
I will travelling around NYS for my job. Hopefully I will get to squeeze in some runs in some new places.

Happy Running! What would you miss if you changed jobs?

September 22, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: Training, Racing, Working, etc.

thinking out loud

Since it is Thursday, I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

Racing vs Training

It’s no secret that I prefer to race than train. Training isn’t fun. There’s no pressure. But I kinda like the pressure.

So I have two more halfs planned – Oct 9 and Dec 3.

And I will probably race every weekend …cuz that’s what I do.

On that note, there were so many choices this weekend. I am busy on Saturday so that’s leaves Sunday.

Sunday, September 25, 2016 9:30 am – Washington Park

I choose this one simply because I have friends running it. It is a 2 loop course with hills. I hate loops and hills are not my friend but whatever. I am assuming that the course is similar to the Teal Ribbon Ovarian Cancer Race that I ran a few years ago.

It’s at this race that I heard about the Troy Turkey Trot training group – I am in it now for the 3rd year.

And then afterward I will continue running around the area for at least 5 more miles.

Runner’s High

No PRs yet but I am still feeling good about my most recent race times.

Half Marathon in 2:11:56 – my 2nd best time – 2 minutes 17 sec off a PR

They changed the results and I did win 3rd in my age group. The race organizer has the hat that I won.

5k time 27:30 – 3rd best 5k time 20 sec off a PR

Work & Time

It seems like I won’t be really working 8 am – 4 pm. It could involve working until 7 pm. It could involve being out of town for 2 to 5 days at a time (with NO time to run.)

my mobile training lab – these babies weigh 80 lbs each! I think I need to do some strength training.

This will really cut into my running time. And the dates are out of my control.

I can run 5ks without training but 13.1 miles?? That would be painful and too risky injury-wise.

Plus I get very little time off. (I already registered for the Dec & Mar halfs so I have to take those days without pay 😦 )

What to do???

I need a Sugar daddy so I can quit my job!

Only kidding…

I will do my best to fit it all in. When there’s a will, there’s a way. Or else I’ll stick to the short local races and work on speed. (Will I be done at 24 half marathons until retirement?)

There are more things in my head but since I never have time any more & my lunch 1/2 hour is over, I’ll stop here.

Happy Running! What’s on your mind today?

September 20, 2016 by Darlene

Saratoga Palio Half Maration Recap & TOTR

2008 Saratoga Palio Poster (Palio!) Tags: race poster memorial compassion run promotional legacy scholarship palio halfmarathon 5k fund mentalhealthcare melaniemerolaodonnell

Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016 – 7:45 am

Half Marathon Training

Training? What’s that? Only kidding… I tried to get in all my double digit runs. Only one took place after a race. Being unemployed helped. I was able to do some of my long runs on a Monday and not mess up boating time with the hubby.

: Sept 10

: Sept 3

During the week, I always ran 3 times and usually for 3-4 miles. No drills…just plain running. Sometimes alone but many times this year with a friend. The ones with a friend were my better runs.

And then during my LAST run, I fell. Hard! I landed on my right shoulder and my knees. (My left knee hurt worse though the right but the right bled more than the left…go figure!.) I was pretty sore for the next two days. I wondered if I would be able to run. But you know me. If I would run with a broken foot and a stress fracture, I would run with a sore shoulder and knee. The question being how much would it affect my running.

Pre-Race Preparations

Runners start the race in downtown Saratoga Springs along Broadway Avenue, and from there they head south down along Broadway toward Saratoga Spa Park. From there, they spend the next few miles of the race running through the park’s roads and trails. Later, the course heads north along Nelson Avenue all the way back into downtown, and next brings runners north up into the finish line in Congress Park.

I was told that the course had changed recently. It used to be much more scenic and you would run around the race track and near Skidmore College. Now, it is mostly in the park so they don’t have to worry about road closures. (*In reading some blogs & FB, I found out that they changed the course this year and it is hillier but favorably received.)

Anyway, below is a map of the course:

sphm

More importantly this was the elevation:

sphmelev

Yup. I see some hills but compared to VCM, Lake George and Celebrate Life, this is nothing!

I decided to wear what I wore at a previous 5k but added compression socks and changed to an orange hat (had to match the Palio colors, right?)

this SkirtSports skirt is one of my fav and the top is old but comfy.

The weather was predicted to be cool but HUMID with a strong chance of rain and maybe thunderstorms.

Rain is not my favorite weather to run in. It also ruins both the pre and post race activities. And humidity is the worst. But you can’t control the weather.

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a rainy race in Saratoga – but at least I only ran the 5k

To save time on race morning and to scope out the parking situation, I drove up the day before and picked up my race packet. There’s a parking lot in front of the hotel and a block from the start. I was planning to park there again on race day.

long sleeved tech shirt but uni-sex so it is big!

There was supposed to an expo but there’s wasn’t much of anything. I just bought some Gu and went for a walk down Broadway.

There was a 50% off coupon in our race packet so I just had to…

Then I walked to Congress Park and I met up with a friend. We chatted for a while and then I walked back to my car and headed home.

Saratoga, esp. Broadway is one of my favorite places to stroll. And the weather was perfect. (Too bad the race wasn’t on Saturday instead of Sunday.)

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Race Day

I got up early (like 5:00 am) and had my usual race breakfast of cream of wheat and tea. It was nice to sleep in my own bed before a big race (although I really didn’t sleep well…as usual.)

I left around 5:45 am and it was POURING!!!!!! I was thinking that this weather would make for a very uncomfortable 13.1 miles! It was supposed to be cool out but it was already almost 70 degrees.

As I got closer to Saratoga, the rained had virtually stopped.

I parked in the same location as the day before.

As I pulled into the parking lot, Jenn, the organizer of STEM pulled in, as well. So we walked up the start together since we both thought that there were restrooms in the Convention Center. There are but it wasn’t open yet so we walked back to the hotel and used them there.

I must have been optimistic that the sun would come out. It didn’t until the race was over. So I never wore those sunglasses LOL

It was early so we had plenty of time. Then we walked back to the start and waited for the race to begin. It was drizzling on and off but nothing to worry about it.

I bumped into so many people that I knew. Some running the 5k like Holly and Tom and many running the half. I was looking for my running buddy Alyssa but never found her.

with my goofy friend Tom

Soon it was time for the crowd of 1200 or so to take off.

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photo from FB

A lot of the race is a blur but here’s how I remember it:

Miles 1-4:

9:19, 9:39, 9:38, 9:52

I was planning to run a consistent pace of around 10mm but as you can see, I started out too fast. Everyone was passing me by. I kept wondering how they could run so fast at the beginning of a half marathon.

The Saratoga Palio run was held in Saratoga Springs on ...

photo from the Gazette

The course started us running down Broadway. It was a slight incline but nothing too bad. Then we headed down Route 9 (So) until we turned around at Crescent Ave and headed back on Rte 9 the same way. There was a water stop around mile 2 and I walked. I walked through ALL the water stops. Next we turned and ran around the backside of the park and eventually down Avenue of the Pines. At this point, the rain had started again but it felt good. It was sooo humid!

I was feeling very strong in the early miles. There were mile markers at every mile and a clock at the 5k, 10K, and 15k points . I think my 5k time was around 29 minutes.

My quilting friend/runner, Terry’s son and daughter were also running the race. Her son Jeff was pushing someone in a carriage. I tried to keep them in my sight. I was hoping to catch up and say hello.

Miles 5-8:

10:09, 9:50, 10:08, 9:56

We continued to run around the park for the next few miles. Finally around mile 5.5 there was the 2nd water stop. Here I walked and took a GU. I still felt good and my 10K time was about 1:01. At the halfway point, my time was about 1:03. That, of course, put PR thoughts in my head. I tried to dismiss them but they wouldn’t go away! There was another water stop around mile 8 so I walked and took one more GU.

I lost Jeff but caught up with Terry’s daughter, Kelly. We chatted for a bit and she proceeded to tell me that her mom Terry was being pushed in the stroller because she had a stress fracture. I was shocked plus he was running so fast. She said that he was practicing because he was going to be pushing his father (who has MS) in the MCM marathon in a few weeks. Amazing!

Miles 9-12:

10:37, 10:29, 10:33, 9:50

We were still running around the park. Here is where things started to get ugly. My back was getting achy and my feet were starting to hurt. But the pain was still bearable. At mile 9, we hit the biggest hill of the race. I started to run up it but then decided that it was too late in the race for that and walked/ran it. There continued to be smaller but annoying hills after that. My 15k time had slowed down to 1:33.

Soon we exited the park, ran down Rte 9. Around mile 10, my nose started to run. Nope, it was a BLOODY NOSE!!!! Did I have tissues? Nope! So I kept running and wiping it with one arm, then the other. Sorry if I am grossing you out. It wouldn’t stop bleeding so I had to keep stopping to wipe it with my shirt. (Good thing I wore than old shirt and not an expensive one.) I kept running but I had to run with my head up and I probably wasn’t breathing right because soon I got a side stitch.

After Rte 9, we headed back into the park and down Avenue of the Pines, past the baths and finally out of the park for good. We crossed Rte 9 and ran down Crescent Ave, turned onto Jefferson, then onto Circular, and finally Spring St. where we could hear that we were getting close to the finish line.

Thankfully, my nose stopped bleeding by the end mile 12 and my side stitch went away. At this point, I just wanted to be done. I walked and took my last GU and tried to pick up speed (but there wasn’t much left in the tank.)

Mile 13-14:

10:08, 8:27

It seemed like the finish line would never come. And one more hill at the end. Not fun! I think I ran up it and tried through sprint through the finish line. The clock read 2:11:xx and I wanted to at least beat 2:12.

Gun Time: 2:12:01
Chip Time: 2:11:56

: Saratoga Palio Half

Post Race:

I got my medal (and a bumper sticker) and immediately went to find a rest room to wash off the blood from my face and arms. I looked like a zombie. (Now you know why you do not see any finisher pictures here!)

Then I went to get some food. There was a pretty nice spread – bananas. muffins, cookies, pizza, etc. I ate it all.

I also bumped into Terry and her family. She was pretty bummed about her injury and having to miss so many races (Ragnar, MCM and several others).

Next I checked the results on their computer.

I was a little disappointed to not get an age group award. I was getting used to always winning them. However, I didn’t realize at the time that they had listed Terry as finishing 2nd in the same age group. She didn’t run but was pushed so technically I did win 3rd place!!

After chatting with some other runners, I walked back to my car to change out of my sweaty bloody shirt. Since they gave a coupon for free beer and food at a local bar called Druthers, I decided to check it out.

I’m not a beer drinker but free is free. They also had mac n cheese and cheese burgers and a band playing. I hung out for a little while since there were some runners that I knew.

Additional race reflections:

The Good:

No hard rain.
Close enough to be able to sleep in my own bed the night before.
Organized packet pick-up
Real bathrooms before and after the race.
Dry place to wait before the race.
Lots of familiar and friendly faces.
Enthusiastic volunteers.
Scenic course esp. through the park.
No major injuries. (just a nose bleed – it’s always something!)
Immediate race results from a computer.
Nice selection of refreshments – the pizza and muffins were delish.
Free beer & food at a local bar.
Had my second best half marathon finish time ever.

The Bad:

No bag check and the start and end were in different places.
Big Hill at mile 9.
Hill right before the finish line.

The Ugly:

Bloody Nose and no tissues.

So there are way more positives than negatives!!! Overall, it was a great race. I loved it!.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. I don’t usually repeat half marathons but if I did, I would run this one again.

Final Stats:

sp16

I definitely slowed down as the race went on. I always do. Miles 6-10 were about 3 minutes slower than miles 1-5. Miles 11-13 were even slower. Nevertheless, I was very happy with how I ran the race. I felt stronger than I have in a half marathon in a long time. All my split times were 9 or 10 mm. Nothing slower!! I was only 2 minutes slower than my PR in January 2015. I had given up hope of having a fast half. I thought my PR was a fluke since all my other recent half marathon finish times have been between 2:17 and 2:35. So now if I could run a flat half in cool temps with no injuries…just maybe?

Next Up:

A few 5ks and then another half marathon.

Sunday, October 9, 2016

I’ve never done one so close in time. 3 weeks apart! Yikes!

But I’m looking forward nice fall weather and enjoying my races/runs.

And since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life!

for

Today’s Topic is: Best Running Advice.

This is what I got from my No Boundaries Mentor when I first started running:

“When it comes to doing your best, it’s the thoughts that count. When it comes to running – or any other endurance sport – your mind can be your biggest asset or your worst enemy. Enjoying your training and achieving your best performances is not simply down to physical conditioning; your mental states and, particularly, the thoughts that run through your mind can affect the way you feel during exercise.”