August 25, 2020 by Darlene

Four Somethings for August

Thanks to Laurie from Meditations in Motion, I discovered a link up started by blogger Heather Gerwing. The fourth Saturday of each month (for me a Tuesday), Heather invites other bloggers to share their “Four Somethings”: Something Loved, Something Read, Something Treasured, and Something Ahead. Sharing these four somethings is a great way to recap your month and highlight what stood out to you. If you are a blogger, you may post your Four Somethings too!

1. Something Loved.

Hiking.

I work full-time so I haven’t had time to do any many hikes as I would have liked. But I did take off THREE Mondays from work explicitly for this purpose.

The first one was Cat and Thomas Mountains in Bolton Landing, NY

: Cat Mountain

: Thomas Mountain

The second was Vroman’s Nose in Middleburgh, NY

And the last one was Moxham Mountain in Minerva, NY.

I enjoy being one with nature. I also enjoy the challenge (as long as it’s not dangerous for this amateur hiker.) I enjoy the exercise.

Have you done a lot of hiking this summer?

2. Something Read.

Back to my crime mystery borrowed collection.

Undone is a novel by bestselling author Karin Slaughter which combines characters from her Will Trent series and her Grant County series.

I’;m pretty sure I’ve read one or more of these before but not sure which one(s).

It is obviously a crime thriller that is suspenseful up to the bitter end. What I really enjoy in her books are the main characters and their relationships – Special Agent Will Trent and his partner, Faith Mitchell.

I look forward to the next one to be follow to follow up on their lives especially the challenges.

Have you read this or Slaughter’s other novels?

3. Something Treasured.

Lake Time.

It has not been the same as past summers, obviously.

But the weather has cooperated on Sundays and Lake George has remained as beautiful as ever.

Each week, we pick a different island to dock our boat at. Different views but the same activities: swimming, eating, drinking, relaxing, reading, etc.

A place to forget about all the problems in the world.

Do you have a summer place or activity that you treasure?

4. Something Ahead.

Last month, I mentioned a Race-cation to NH with 9 friends to run a half marathon. That is still in limbo. The race is now virtual (NO deferral option and NO refund). Will we still go? Will it be safe to go?

The next race-cation is in February in Florida. Is this one in jeopardy too???

Are you looking forward to anything?

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

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! What are your somethings? Share at least ONE.

August 23, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 8.17.20-8.23.20: Day Tripping, Biking and Butterflies

I went hiking on my day off at the beginning of the week and ended the week with another day trip (to a tennis party). I started riding my bike and had a few butterfly sightings this week.

My SIXTH 2020 Half Marathon has been cancelled. TWO (including this one) had NO refunds and NO deferrals.

Ten of us reserved a house in NH that weekend… may still go if it is safe. Still bummed about NO race (and no finish line beer or lobster roll.)

Last Week –

Monday – A day off from work. I had my fingers crossed that the weather would cooperate and I could take a road trip and hike with a old friend and former co-worker, Molly. We decided on Vroman’s Nose because of its scenic views. Both the weather and views were perfect. We also met up with my running friends who joined up on the hike.

It actually was less steep and a shorter, easier hike than I expected

After the hike, we all went out to brunch. Then I convinced Molly to hike some more (especially after those blueberry pancakes). We headed to Landis Arborteum. There were lots of trails and interesting trees. So worth it.

I hope to go back next spring when the lilacs are in bloom.

Tuesday – The day started with a follow-up podiatrist appointment followed by a run. I explained to doctor about my zero-drop theory and then we discussed my other foot (bunion pain)… exercises, tape and 2 months to follow-up. She was happy that my neuroma no longer hurt.

started on the rail trail and took a turn off to a hilly road…the temps made this one pretty pleasant (is fall on the way? hope not)

Just a quick walk at lunch (I was going to try out my bike but the front tire was flat 😦 )

another flower pic. what did you expect? lol

I headed for the trails after work – Hannacroix Ravine Preserve (which I had planned on re-visiting last week but never did). I forgot to download the map and I had no cell service so I just followed the red signs up and down and over small creeks hoping that it was a loop. I eventually met a couple and asked them. I was almost done at that point and all I had to do was turn right at the main road and walk down a ways to the parking lot. Phew!

2.5 mile loop and really enjoyable…

When I got home, my hubby had put air in my bike tires and I actually rode my bike. It needs some work but it’s rideable.

Wednesday – Too busy at work to walk or run before work or during lunch. Too bad because it was a nice coolish day.

But I did get in my run after work. I drove to the Voorheesville end of the rail trail (because the art exhibit was finally finished) and ran from there and back.

the artwork was amazing!!! I also bumped in someone I taught with eons ago.

Thursday – Again I skipped my morning walk but I did squeeze a short one in during lunch.

amazingly this butterfly just sat there…

Our weekly Trail Walk got changed this week to today and a new location – Thacher Park. First we walked the Indian Ladder trail and then another looped trail.

lots of stairs, great views but not a big waterfall this time of year

followed by dinner on Warner’s Lake.

great food, company and view but actually a little chilly outside (fall-like temps)

Friday – Rest Day Friday. No time to run or walk before work so I took out the bike.

yes it was a little chilly this morning…and I need to get a helmet but just a 15 min ride in the neighborhood

And another ride during lunch on a beautiful sunny day (My rest days always have the best weather….)

haven’t figured out how to take pics and ride…don’t worry, I’ll walk and hike too so I can post those flower pics…

This has become a weekly thing…post work walk with two former co-workers. Great way to end the week and chat. We met on the rail trail but at a different spot to vary the walk route.

met some ‘deer” friends too

Saturday – LONG RUN DAY. Today we chose the Corning bike path to run/walk. I started earlier as usual and then met the others. I did heart rate intervals with Jan and ended up with 11 miles total.

it wasn’t hot or sunny but boy was it humid!!!

Then we all picked up our brunch items at Baking You Crazy and ate them outdoors at Chris’ house.

I saw this butterfly in my garden out back, then on the wall and finally IN my garage on my bike seat…weird!

Sunday – Normally I would be boating on Lake George with the hubby. But today was an annual party at a house on the Schroon River with my tennis friends.

tennis, eating, swimming…glad to keep up our tradition

After the party, I planned to stay overnight on my boat so on Monday (a day off), I could get in an early run and then some hikes in the Adirondacks.

This Coming Week –

Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike
Tuesday – rest day, hair appt
Wednesday – run, trail walk
Thursday – run
Friday – rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – LONG RUN
Sunday – rest day, Boating on Lake George

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? How are you surviving the summer heat? Please share.

August 21, 2020 by Darlene

Self-Care

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

My Topic for this week is: Self-Care

I’ll admit that I stole this idea from @runstrongrun’s IG post. I hope she doesn’t mind.

It’s always been important to take care of oneself but even more crucial during these stressful times.

Since it is Friday Five, I’ll pick the first 5 on this list:

1.Exercise

Run, walk, hike, work out. Whatever works for you. It may only be for a short time but try to fit in some form of exercise each day.

I rarely work out but I do try to run or walk or hike every day.

2. Alone Time

It’s important to carve time where you are completely by yourself.

I work from home now. That’s means I’m home with the hubby more than usual. Driving to a local preserve is my alone time. Sometimes it’s my daily run or walk.

3.Read a book.

It doesn’t have to be for a long time…maybe just a few pages before bed or while your dinner is cooking.

I do read every night before I fall asleep but I especially enjoy reading on the lake.

4.Spa Day

This can be just soaking in the tub, getting a manicure or pedicure or even a facial (home mud mask). Try to find some time to pamper yourself every day.

I do get monthly manicures, always have my toes painted but some days I am lazy. I need to remind myself to take a long bath rather than a quick shower each day. We have an outdoor hot tub (that I unplugged to set up my laptop on the deck). I need to set that up again for a post run spa.

5.Friends

Humans are made to be connected with other humans. So call or text a friend, ZOOM or Face Time with him/her, meet at a park. Connect with at least ONE friend each day.

my college friends

I’m pretty good with keeping touch with those important in my life. I text friends whom I can’t see or ZOOM with those who live too far away to see in person. Of course, I do try to see my close friends at least weekly at dinners/brunches

and on runs/walks.

We are all busy especially if you work full-time or have young children at home. You may not be able to do all of these self-care items every day, But several can be combined such as:

1 and 3 – Download an audio book and listen while you exercise.
1 and 2 – Spend your alone time walking, hiking or running.
1 and 5 – Run/walk or work out with a friend.
1 and 4 – Run or workout and follow it with an Epsom salt bath or massage.

Have you noticed which number works with the all the rest??

And remember

Self-Care Strategies for Holidays — Rape Recovery Center

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! How many of these do you do Daily? Please share.

August 18, 2020 by Darlene

My Shoe History, Foot Pain and Zero Drop Shoes

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: Zero-Drop Shoes

As a runner, I was always aware of how important your shoes are. I obsessed about them and never hesitated to buy another pair.

I knew about neutral shoes vs stability shoes and switched back and forth. Having bunions, I was always concerned about having a wide toe box and had no problems finding shoes that accommodated this.

In the beginning, I wore whatever felt comfortable: Saucony, Brooks, Asics, New Balance, Newton. I tried them all.

I finally settled on Nikes and wore them happily for several years.

Nike

Then I switched to Mizunos and loved them (even ran my Marathon in them).

Mizuno

Finally came my foot pain aka the Neuroma/Bunion issue. I tried several shoes with a wide toe box. My foot still hurt so I kept returning them. Finally I settled on Hokas.

Hoka

I still felt discomfort but it was bearable. I didn’t even realize that it may have been because they had a lower heel drop than I had been wearing.

I hesitated to go to Zero Drop until I hiked 10 miles in my Altra (Zero-drop) Trail shoes (that I only bought because they were on sale). For the first time in a long time, my foot did not hurt.

Altra

Hmmm. So I ordered a pair of Topos (They also have a wide toe box). Not zero drop yet but a lower drop than my Hokas.

My foot felt a lot better. It was sore but I actually ran 10 miles and did not have to go home immediately to ice my foot.

So I took the plunge and ordered Topos in a Zero-drop style.

that color was on clearance lol

Magical!! NO FOOT PAIN!!

Mizuno Wave Inspire – Drop: 12 mm
Hoka Gaviota – Drop: 5 mm
Topo Fly-Lyte – Drop: 3 mm
Topo Magnifly – Drop: 0 mm

Maybe it was a coincidence and had nothing to do with a shoe with a lower heel drop.

But I decided to look into it. And here’s what I discovered:

In zero-drop shoes, the heels and toes are the same distance off the ground (as in when you walk barefoot.)
The main benefit of zero-drop shoes is that, unlike regular shoes, they keep your foot in its natural position: level from heel to toe.
When runners start wearing zero-drop shoes, their posture and overall alignment improves.
Because zero-drop shoes engage the foot itself in absorbing the impact of running, they very often allow for greater foot movement (Most have a wider toe box.)
Because zero-drop shoes usually don’t have extra cushioning (though some do), they are made from less material. That helps maintain lighter weight, which can help your speed and improve your endurance.
Shoes with a high heel-to-toe drop encourage heel striking which can play a major factor when it comes to running-related knee pain.
If you’ve been wearing regular running shoes, don’t go right into zero-drop. A transition period is recommended to give your feet (and whole body) time to adjust to the new lower-drop in the heel.

Running Shoes: How to Choose the Best Running Shoes | REI Co-op

Obviously, zero-drop shoes are not for everyone. And if your feet feel fine when you run, there’s no need to switch.

I do think, they worked for me because they put less pressure on my forefoot (where the pain was.)

I worry about the lack of support and cushioning (especially at my age). But right now, I’m enjoying being mostly pain-free (if only there were races to be run lol)

I did save one pair of Brooks, Nike and Mizunos just in case I want to go back (and gave the rest away.)

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Have you tried Zero-Drop Running Shoes? Why or Why not? Please share.

August 11, 2020 by Darlene

Running with Idols

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

The Topic for today is: If you could go on a run with any celebrity, who would you go with?

Wow, this is hard. How can I pick one person??

So my first pick would be Joan Benoit Samuelson.

Photo: Tony Duffy/Getty Images

If you have never watched this video, you must (with tissues nearby): Joan Benoit 1984

I’m old enough to remember the 1984 Olympics in LA. I was actually in Israel at the time. No interest in running. I think I watched the gymnastics events only.

Joan qualified for the race 2 weeks after having knee surgery!!!

Then I started running. And Joan Benoit Samuelson has become my IDOL… She is in her 60s too and she is STILL running and trying for records. (Our birthdays are both in MAY as well!)

I actually met her a few years ago at the Freihofer Run for Women Expo. (I even got her autograph.)

I was also lucky enough to run with her when she came to Albany, NY back in 2012 to premiere her movie.

My second pick may not be someone everyone knows. She is not a former Olympian but she has become my newest idol – Jeannie Rice.
Her Marathon Time Is Astounding—And Not Just for 71 - WSJ
This lady is 72 years old has been running for 37 years without a single injury. She holds the world and/or national record at every distance.

She has run 150 marathons and still runs at least 11-12 miles each day (6-8 marathons a year.)

If you have time, listen to her interview on this podcast.

Both of these older runners have not let age hold them back. Obviously, they have native ability but we know that just gets you so far. I’d love to run with either of them and hopefully their zest for life and running would rub off on me.

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Who is your running idol(s)? And whom would you love to run with? Please share.

August 9, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 8.3.20-8.9.20: A SUNFlowery Week with Some Needed Rain

Much of the same. Working from Home has no end in sight…at least until October but most likely until 2021.

Love WFH for convenience to running/walking/hiking but miss my trips to NYC!!

I have from May 15 until Aug 31 to run/walk 1000k. Almost there…

Last Week –

Monday – #NeverMissaMonday? Not really but it just happens that my long runs are on Saturday so I run on Mondays most weeks if the weather and work cooperate. I was able to squeeze in one before work and bumped into a tennis friend running in my neighborhood which was nice.

you can see how tall these sunflowers were, LOVE these!! Another reason to get outside, right?

Not too much time for a lunch walk but I did get out since rain was predicted for Tuesday.

don’t we all love a sign with flowers and more yellow flowers?

Not sure why but I felt very energetic this evening (maybe due to a sluggish Sunday). So I drove to see a field of 145,000 sunflowers (not exaggerating),

so amazing..this was the first time this farmer (Jerry Boone) planted them. He plans to harvest the seeds and sell them. I even bought a few flowers.

visited a new preserve, then a friend who lived nearby

not too impressive…the trail was very short

and two more preserves that I’ve visited before- Holt and Hollyhock Hollow.

Holt Preserve. I still need to go back when I have more time and do all the trails here… as you can see the sun was starting to set.

I walked along the creek at HollyHock Hollow….so so dry… didn’t stay long as it was getting dark.

Tuesday – Finally some rain. We did need it. I was glad it was a rest day. In the morning, I just grabbed my umbrella and headed out. The walk didn’t last long as it was raining so hard that I was getting soaked even with an umbrella. Well’ at least my garden was happy. I was hoping that it would let up by lunch or at least by dinner.

I tried once more when the rain let up but again it didn’t last before it started to monsoon. One last try since thunderstorms were predicted for the afternoon and high winds for the evening.

stayed out longer than the first 2 attempts since it was raining hard but tolerable…even the sunflowers were sad 😦

After work, I decided that the only way to get in some dry steps was to head to the mall. Yes, the mall is open. I wore my mask and didn’t do any shopping (What do I need??)

Wednesday – Storm over. I got in a quick walk before work.

sun is back out but the sunflowers do look sad.

I rushed out to get in my run during lunch. I only had time to do it in my neighborhood and actually ran in a neighboring development for a change. This run was not one for the record books…my lower back really ached (always something). I wondered why. Was it sitting too much? Nope, I am always at the computer. My shoes? Same as for my 10 miler (though they are getting worn.) Then I remembered the walk in the mall the evening before. Hard floors!! So I just took it down a notch and walked when I needed to… Got it done!!

I wish the front of my house looked this pretty.

After work, I met my running friends for our weekly trail walk. We re-visited Five Fivers (where last time we saw the mama turtle lay her eggs). We saw a deer and some cicada killer bees and covered around 3 miles while chatting.

On my way home, I decided to re-visit HollyHock Hollow Preserve. I thought it may look very different from Monday after Tuesday’s tropical storm rains.

it sure did and I’m glad I stopped by for a walk

Thursday – I was debating on whether to run before or after work. I decided on after so I could drive and run somewhere different.

preparing for fall, I guess?

So there were walks before work and during lunch.

keeping with the vegetable theme…a squash flower

I decided to run at UAlbany after work since I hadn’t been there in ages.

ran around the lake since the path was shortened due to Covid testing and discovered a new path.

I followed it with a quick trip to Bozenkill Preserve.

no I didn’t see a bear but the sign did make me nervous…the creek was much more active than last week…worth the visit.

Friday – Rest Day Friday. As usual. A Rainy Day.

Champ’s rest day…this cat can get comfortable for hours in the most amazing positions.

I did my morning walk near by office since I had to pick something up. I was able to get it done in between raindrops.

My lunch walk on the trails too. The rain had stopped which was convenient.

a little muddy but nice to get out of the neighborhood for a change

And after work, I met my former co-workers on the rail trail as I did last Friday evening. Thunderstorms were predicted but we lucked out. Nothing but humidity. 7 miles and one bag of chocolate cherry gourmet popcorn.

this food truck was stationed along the trail…we couldn’t resist.

Saturday – LONG RUN DAY. We found out that one of our favorite brunch places does take-out and there’s a place outside to gather. So the Nisky bike path was where we did our runs/walks. I arrived early and ran a few miles with Alyssa and Karen. They were too fast so I ran heart rate intervals for the rest of my miles with Jan. 11 miles done in God awful humidity. Met with with everyone else after for a delicious outdoor brunch (raspberry lemonade French toast).

the best part of this run was NO foot pain wearing my NEW Magnify Topos shoes!!

Sunday – Boating on Lake George. Another beautiful weather day and we invited two friends to spend the day with us.

We relaxed, chatted, swam, ate and took a LONG walk on the trail. Perfect!!

This Coming Week –

Monday –run
Tuesday – rest day
Wednesday – run, trail walk
Thursday – run
Friday – rest day
Saturday – LONG RUN
Sunday – rest day, boating

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? How are you surviving the summer heat? Please share.

August 4, 2020 by Darlene

Four Somethings for July

1. Something Loved.

At this point in this HOT, HUMID summer, I have loved my Sunday time on Lake George. It has been peaceful and scenic but more importantly, an opportunity to cool off, relax and read.

Unlike other summers, it has NOT been an occasion to connect with friends and participate in social gatherings.

How have you kept cool this summer? Has it been different than previous summers?

2. Something Read.

Writers & Lovers

I took a break from my borrowed mystery novel collection since our library has now opened for book pick-up.

This book is is narrated by 31-year-old Casey, who is struggling to finish writing her first novel while trying to handle college loan debts and her mother’s recent, unexpected death. In the mix is a love triangle.

I really enjoyed this book and loved how the main character evolved and how the story ended.

Have you read this or King’s other novels?

3. Something Treasured.

My Friends.

Of course, our times together are different. We are either 6 feet apart or on ZOOM but they are there for support and share our interests, worries, etc.

college friends with whom I went to France with

tennis friends

running/hiking buddies

They are all respectful of the need to stay safe. I have felt isolated by working from home. My friends have definitely added some normalcy to my life.

Have you been able to stay in touch with your friends?

4. Something Ahead.

A Race-cation??

The Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon & 5k

Hopefully this will be in NH to run the Smuttynose Half Marathon. Ten of us have rented a house for 4 days.

If not, my next one is in February in Fla.

Sunday, Feb 14, 2021

Are you looking forward to any races that you have already registered for?

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

I’m also linking up here:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! What are your somethings? Share at least ONE.

July 31, 2020 by Darlene

Runfessions for July

Runfessions

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

Time flies in a pandemic. This is my 4th pandemic Runfession post.

1. I runfess…

I have a high tolerance for pain. I’ve raced with a stress fracture and a broken foot.

this was my last painful run

No surprise that that I waited several weeks before I went back to the podiatrist for my neuroma.

Economic evaluation corticosteroid injections mortons neuroma

Next up maybe laser therapy…

Do you seek medical attention right away or procrastinate? Have you gotten laser therapy for pain?

2. I runfess…

Once I experienced foot pain back in November, I ditched my favorite Mizunos and bought:

Altras (and returned them)
Brooks (and returned them)
Hokas (and returned them)
Another style of Hokas (for walking)
Back to Mizuno Inspires (for short runs)

And now I am trying Topos!!

Did you try different shoes or stick with one brand?

3.I runfess…

I thought I would continue with some virtual races. For good reasons. Support the racing organization, charity, add to my swag collection or just to motivate myself to run faster.

5k, 10k, 13.1 Virtual Challenge medal

Nope, I’m done!

At least paying money to run them. And who needs another glass or medal??

If they are free, maybe??

Are you still signing up for virtual races?

4. I runfess…

We’re pretty good in Upstate NY with Covd-19 though there are still new cases. I am considering running a race, any race.

Aug 15…maybe? Maybe not?

Anyone else have run a real race or considering doing so?

5.I runfess…

I upped my goal in the NYS Challenge from 500k to 1000K because I would be done too early in the summer.

One NY Virtual Challenge - Race Across New York!

Then my foot started bothering me so I thought I should probably cut back on the walking, hiking running and maybe get my bike out.

can’t remember the last time on this???

Biking miles don’t count!!

And I am stubborn. So back to walking, running and hiking until I am done with 1000k.

Would you bike even if it did not count? Do you like biking?

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share.

July 26, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 7.20.20-7.26.20: Lazy Hazy Days of Summer…

Still warm, humid, lots of thunderstorm threats… a haircut is probably the only new event.

I have until Aug 31 to run/walk 1000k. Getting there…

Of course this is getting old but another of my favorite summer races has gone virtual.

nostalgic look back to 2019

I also finally got in the mail my swag from the Steel Rail Half Marathon that I chose to run virtually in May:

what? no metal? lol

Last Week –

Monday – Another scorcher. I wanted to get in a pre-work run to avoid the heat and test my new shoes.

still pretty steamy…no verdict yet since the the run was very easy as to break in my shoes

Even warmer at lunch but luckily I did not have much time to sweat on my walk.

more pretty pink flowers (Rose of Sharon?)

After work as usual, I went out in search of exercise and shade. I picked two very nearby preserves that were wooded and went along the creek at some point. It was wonderful!!

: Normanskill East

: Normanskill West

Then I met my BFF for an outdoor mall walk and talk. She broke her toe so this week it was a sit and chat.

Tuesday – I decided to squeeze in an early morning walk in the ‘hood

hosta time

and then a run at lunch since I had plans every day after work.

I actually drove to the rail trail because I am sick of my neighborhood.. so hot when you run at NOON!!

After work, I had my 2nd pandemic haircut (makes me feel kinda normal). Next week I hope to have my 2nd manicure!!

And I then I explored a preserve that wasn’t too far away followed by a walk on the bike path.

I had visited this trail before but not since the pandemic began

Wednesday – I wouldn’t normally run again but rain was predicted for later in the day and for tomorrow.

I woke up to rain but it stopped by the time I was ready to run.

70s for temp but 85% for humidity did not make this feel good (nor is my foot 😦 )

I decided for a change to drive to the park at lunch and walk on the trails there.

and met up with my “deer” friend

Fingers crossed that the storms would hold off so we could get in our weekly trail walk. Unfortunately I was the only one able to do the trails. And the rain did hold off (though it was so humid, the rain would have felt nice.)

I did the green, blue and part of the yellow trail – would have done more if I knew the rain would hold off so long…

Thursday – It was supposed to rain on and off today. It rained during the night but had stopped by morning. So I started the day with my usual neighborhood walk in search of new flowers to photograph.

I don’t think I posted these before?

and then one more during lunch. Hooray for rest days and no pressure to run between the raindrops.

got caught taking this pic and explained that I was admiring her petunias since they were nicer than mine.

In the evening, my monthly tennis dinner was scheduled. This was the first time, we were not doing take out and sitting 6 feet apart in a park. The threat of thunderstorms postponed this until next Thursday.

Of course, the storm never really arrived so after dinner, I decided to go on another trail walk at Normanskill Farm.

It was lovely walking along the creek but I didn’t have time to complete the whole loop since it was getting dark.

You can see from the photo above that I stopped for dessert before heading home. As I was enjoying my ice cream cone, I realized that across the street, there was an awesome sunset.

I can’t remember the last time I watched the sun set…it’s usually when I travel to NYC or Fla. I need to remember to do more of my walks later in the evening.

Friday – Another rest day as always due to my long run being the next day. I didn’t have much time today for walks but I did squeeze in two short ones in the neighborhood.

One in the morning

dahlia I think

and then one at lunch time

and a hibiscus

I did a repeat walk from Thursday but explored farther on the path. However, no ice cream or perfect sunset tonight.

back along the Normanskill creek

Saturday – LONG RUN DAY. Today we were back on the rail trail so that we could meet for brunch after at Emma Cleary’s (It’s all about food lol).

Like previous weeks, it was HOT and HUMID so I arrived earlier to get in a few solo miles. Then everyone else arrived at various times. I again took advantage of Deidre’s offer to run 10 miles with me. She runs intervals which is fine with me. It’s all about distance in the summer time. I ran 2 miles before she and Jen arrived and then she wasn’t feeling well so we only ran 9. 11 miles was enough to deserve Emma’s strawberry stuffed French toast with potatoes and bacon (and chocolate mile of course).

We twinned with our Skirt Sports tanks

Sunday – Boating. For the first time this summer we had company (my hubby’s friend, his girlfriend, his daughter & daughter’s friend) on our boat.

that’s my hubby diving off a cliff.. me? I just floated around in a tube.

The weather was perfect and it was fun hanging out with other people for a change.

Another first was that I slept overnight on our boat. I haven’t done it in awhile but I had Monday off from work. My hiking plans got cancelled so I decided why not run and hike here for a change of scenery.

This Coming Week –

Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike
Tuesday – rest day
Wednesday – run, trail walk
Thursday – run, dinner with tennis friends
Friday – rest day
Saturday – LONG RUN
Sunday – rest day, boating

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Are things opening up where you live? Are things getting more normal for you? Please share.

July 21, 2020 by Darlene

Running Success (During Pandemic Times)

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

My Topic for today is: Running Success (during Pandemic Times)

In “Normal” times, as runners, we would most likely define SUCCESS with one or more of the following:

Completing a New distance such as your first full marathon
Attaining a PR (at a distance or a course)
Qualifying for a big race (Boston?)
Running a bucket list race (like one of the World Majors)
Trying a new type of race – a trail race, a triathlon, etc.
Returning to racing after an injury

Well, I doubt any of these have occurred this year.

So how do runners now determine success?

No Covid-19

Only one of my running friends has gotten this and she recovered. All others including myself are and have been symptom free.

thumbs up for flowers and feeling good

Mileage

Since we are all working from home, there is less travel time and thus, more time to RUN. As a result, we are running more miles each month.

my goal had been 84 miles per month and I often didn’t meet it

Varied running routes

In order to stay safe, you have had to avoid those non-wearing masked neighborhood walkers or the bikers on crowded bike trails. So you have discovered new places to run such as secluded trails or quiet park paths.

all alone at Zim Smith

Virtual Races

No scheduled races has given runners who want to race the ability to sign up and complete a multitude of VIRTUAL races.

Many are even free.

Participation in Challenges

In addition to virtual races, you can join a variety of challenges that will motivate you to complete a certain number of miles or kms.

Many of the states have one such as this.

So of course as running goes in 2020, we may want a do over but it always helps to focus on the positives. I’m sure you can find ones that I didn’t even think of.

Yeah, life is hard, but people get through it, why? Because they ...