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Runfessions for December

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

and it’s the last one for 2020!!

1. I runfess…

I’ve passed by many of those small library boxes.  I always look to see if there’s a book that I want.  I have gone back to get some books.  But recently I saw two holidays DVDs.  I took them because I could just stuff them in my waist band and continue my run.

I mean it was “Love Actually” and a Reese Witherspoon movie

Have you ever done something so silly? What is your favorite holiday movie?

2. I runfess…

I’ve used Strava for a few 5k Virtual Races because NYRR/ Strava sponsored them.  I do not pause my watch when I tie my shoe, stop to walk or even take pictures.  So yes, the elapsed time is way slower than the moving time.  I know that if it were a real race, I could run as fast as (or hopefully faster than) the moving time. I don’t feel guilty.

Do you pause your watch when you stop running?

3.I runfess…

I haven’t decided on my next half marathon but I had already registered (before the pandemic) to run a Feb. 14 one in Fort Lauderdale (with Cari).

Publix Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon

Feb. 14, 2021

But there was a Cyber Monday discount so I also registered for one the week before in Melbourne (where my Sister-in-law lives).

Feb. 7, 2021

No, I don’t plan to run both. I may run neither.  Both races offer deferrals.  Hopefully I will run one and defer the other to 2022.

Anyone want to join me in either of these races?

4. I runfess…

I ordered all my holiday presents myself. So I love them all. Running shoes, socks, lighted vest, turkey trot beanie & socks.

Do you prefer surprise gifts or do you like to pick out what you want?

5.I runfess…

I had a hard time getting in the holiday spirt with everything going on.  But I always make and send holiday photo cards.  So I did.

Do you still like to send and get “real” cards?

6.I runfess…

I said that I was over virtual races.  And I am. At least mostly (No more virtual half marathons!!)

But I already signed up for two virtual races – a free 5k on January 1.

NYRR Virtual Resolution Run 5K

and a 15k on January 30.  This one supports a great charity and has awesome swag (and blogger Kim is also running this one.)

Virtual Houston 15k

Anyone want to join me in either of these races?

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.

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2021 Running Goals

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

The Topic for today is: Goals for 2021

Hard to say definitely when everything with the virus is up in the air.

But I’ll give it a shot.

  • 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’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! Any goals for 2021? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 12.14.20-12.20.20: Let It Snow, Let It Snow…Somewhere Else

I know it’s December but I have no gym access (and no equipment at home). Snow puts a real kink in my active life (especially when they predict one foot and you get 30 inches!!)

Thank you all for your kind words regarding my recent loss. I do appreciate you all being a part of my journey.

Running and hiking continue and keep me sane.

Last Week –

  • Monday – I had to work in the evening so I had the morning off. Between the rain and snow showers, it was hard to figure out a time to get out the door. I just threw on my trail shoes and hit the road. It snowed the whole run but it was invigorating having snow flakes flying in my face. I chose a new trail that I was able to run on (for the most part).

too bad you can’t see the flurries in my pics.

And I still had more time so I continued with a walk on my favorite trail at Fiver Rivers.

I think I have an obsession with running water lol

  • Tuesday – Today I had the day off from work. That meant I had time to go for both a run and a hike (even though it was freezing.)

First, I headed out for a sunny, yet frigid windy run. I drove the Albany end of the rail trail because I like the scenery there and I haven’t run there in a while. It did not disappoint despite that the first half was uphill.

When I returned, I drove to Salem Art Works to hike some of the trails. It was a long drive but I know hiking for the most part will end when ice and snow arrive so I’d better continue checking places off my list. The views were great and the artwork interesting.  The trails were not well marked, snowy and kinda slippery. So I spent more time walking around the artwork.

Afterward I headed to nearby Battenkill Creamery for….

I also picked up some of my favorite chocolate milk (and eggnog)

In the evening, I met my BFF for a long walk in the outdoor mall (brrrrr).

  • Wednesday – I hadn’t planned on another day off from work but we had go to a funeral/burial for my grandson. RIP Julian Thomas ❤

Afterwards, I wasn’t in the mood for a run but I knew I needed to get out and a foot of snow was predicted overnight. So I bundled up and headed to the opposite end of the rail trail (from Tuesday.)

It was single digits with wind chill but felt warmer than the day before or maybe I just over dressed. Happy to see that the art work on the trees was still in tact.

After some grocery shopping, I decided to hit the trails… maybe for the last time without snow covering them.

the calm before the storm at Normans Kill West

  • Thursday – No running or walking with all that snow. Glad to be working from home.

and still falling …

but once my hubby plowed out the driveway, I did put on my boots and went for a short walk at lunch (and then shoveled out my hot tub).

priorities

Obviously there was no way to drive or run…too much snow in the roads (and the plow has come by twice already) but again I went for a walk.  Sad to see all the holiday decorations buried.

  • Friday – Undecided if I should run or not…always depends on whether I was planning a long run on Saturday or on Sunday. But between the snow and the frigid temps, Sunday seemed like a better day.

At lunch, I just headed out my front door to see if I could run safely in the roads. And I did …barely. Some roads still had a lot of snow so I had to run in the middle of the road but on some, the snow was packed down so it was easy to run on. But any run where the sun is shining is a good one.

The temp was in the teens but it didn’t really feel cold…just a vest instead of a jacket and I felt fine

After work, I headed to UAlbany to check out the paths and then for a walk with friends around an outside mall (per usual on Friday evenings.)

  • Saturday – So where does one hike with two feet of snow covering? Still trying to figure that one out. I think I need to buy snowshoes or cross country skis!! Instead, I got my workout in by shoveling the snow off our deck.
  • Sunday – Re-Scheduled Long Run Day.  It was not warm but warmer. I headed over to the Crossings in hopes that their paths may be plowed and if not, I could run in the roads.   The paths were plowed but still slippery so we decided to run in the roads (in a nearby neighborhood.) Stan joined Karen & I for the first few miles and I ran just with Karen. When she left, I just continued on my own until I bumped into a former student of mine.

running is so much easier with friends!!

I had a busy afternoon planned. I had booked a holiday tour of Ten Broeck Mansion at 2:30 pm. Unfortunately, it got cancelled due to the snow.

Another thing to add to my list for next year.

and then I also had a ZOOM with my college friends scheduled for 4:30 pm. Always great connecting with these folks.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  run
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday –  run
  • Thursday – rest day
  • Friday – Christmas – DAY OFF, run
  • Saturday –  rest day
  • Sunday – Long Run

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? Have the winter temps hit? How is your holiday decorating and shopping going? Please share.

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My Word for 2020 – An Update

Will You Take the One Word Challenge This Year?

This was something I’ve done every year since 2014:

(If you’ve never heard about the My One Word approach, here is a summary:

Lose the long the list of changes you want to make this year and instead pick one word. This process forces clarity by taking all of your big plans for life change and narrowing them down into a single thing. Your one word focuses on your character and creates a vision for your future.)

Below is a list of the words, I’ve chosen so far:

2014:514_400x400_NoPeel

2015:

2016:

2017:

Word Relax handwritten on sandy beach - Royalty-free Handwriting Stock Photo

2018:

Adapt chalkart

And 2019:

refocus

And 2020:

Image result for patience

I had many ideas for ways that I was going to be patient.

None of them really mattered. Once the Pandemic arrived (and is still around), my word took on a whole other life.  Who knew at that time, how appropriate this word would be?

  1. Being Patient when I could not run with my friends.
  2. Being Patient when I could not run in the places that I normally loved to run in.
  3. Being Patient that I could not travel and run in new places.
  4. Being Patient when my favorite races got cancelled.
  5. Being Patient when the races that I signed up for went virtual.
  6. Being Patient when my favorite races went virtual.
  7. Being Patient when gyms closed (and I don’t own any exercise equipment.)
  8. Being Patient when I have to carry a mask or wear a buff around my neck every time I run.
  9. Being Patient even when a race does happen, I have to deal with all the restrictions.
  10. Being Patient when after a long run, I can’t go out for an indoor brunch (and it’s cold out.)
  11. Being Patient when I can’t plan my racing schedule for next year.
  12. Being Patient when my pace has slowed to a crawl to due lack of racing and training mojo.
  13. Being Patient when COVID is the topic of almost every conversation.
  14. Being Patient with those who are overly paranoid about COVID.
  15. Being Patient with those who do not take COVID serious enough.
  16. Being Patient until I can get the vaccine.
  17. Being Patient with those who are skeptical of the vaccine.

I’ll stop but I could go on and on.  Yes, as they say “This too shall pass.” But I’m tired of being patient!!

I know it’s Friday, but it’s 2020, I could NOT limit myself to FIVE.

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! If you were to choose ONE word for your focus throughout 2020, what would it have been? Have you been “patient” this year? Please share.

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NYCRuns Winter Classic 5k Recap

Dec. 6, 2020

My First Pandemic 5k and my first trip to NYC since January.

As I mentioned to friends, I was more excited about leaving my home and going to NYC than racing.  But this race was a good excuse as well as being able to see the city during the holidays.

All week long, they had forecast rain for both Saturday and Sunday.  I didn’t want to go if it was raining (since I planned to be outside most of the time.) Then they changed the forecast to only rain on Saturday.  Eventually, it was only going to rain on Saturday morning. So I kept my hotel reservations and made train reservation to arrive in the late afternoon.

I took the train and with all the restrictions in place, I felt pretty safe (with my mask on and empty seats around me.)  When I arrived, I walked to my hotel (for which I had a free room due to points) and left off my luggage.

Even though it was the day before a race, I still planned a lot of walking (as I wanted to avoid the subway as much as possible) and check out all the holiday decorations.

walked to the top of the Vessel for the sunset views.

Then I had dinner (that I brought from home) in my hotel room. Not my usual pasta/pizza (and a big mistake, I think).

I went back out to explore more of the city and the night time holiday decorations.

Sixth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park and more…

Finally I returned back to my hotel to plan out the next day – the race!

Before registering for this race, I checked their COVID restrictions:

  • You may not attend the event if you have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 or tested positive in the fourteen (14) days prior to the event.
  • You must wear a face covering throughout this event other than when running.
  • When running, you may remove the covering only when you can maintain social distance and the covering must remain around your head in some fashion so it can easily be reapplied. The covering must be worn for the first 500 and last 500 feet of the race (it should be on when you reach the mile 3 marker.)
  • No guests are allowed at the race site
  • Upon entry to the race site, a medical professional will take and record your temperature.
  • To avoid crowding, you must show up on time for your designated wave and leave immediately after completing your race.
  • Running in a group of two or more is not permitted.
  • If you test positive for COVID-19 within the fourteen days following the event, you must email theteam@nycruns.com so that we may notify staff and participants as necessary.

NYCRuns also had two 5ks already and both received excellent reviews. So I was not nervous at all about this race compromising my health and others.

Last 5K: June 2019!!!!

27:47 Finish time – sigh.

In addition to not having run a 5k race in 18 months, I was a little worried that I had done ZERO speed work and had only been running at a slow easy pace.  But in my eyes, it was only a run in NYC.  There would be no age-group awards just a gaiter given to everyone.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

As I mentioned above, I arrived in NYC the day before. I already had my bib so all I needed to do was explore the city on foot, have dinner in my room (on the 32nd fl), explore the city some more in the evening and try to go to bed early.

I also had to decide what to wear (which is harder when you travel.) I chose to wear my gaiter (but had a mask in my pocket just in case.) Otherwise, I tried to be matched and warm (but not too warm).

Long sleeved shirt, vest (no jacket). I thought that I would be warm enough but wasn’t prepared for the colder temps along the river and for the WIND!!

Race Day:

Unfortunately I had a miserable night of sleep (if any). My room was uncontrollably HOT and that soggy Subway sandwich did not sit well in my stomach). I woke up with a headache and upset stomach.

I brought my oatmeal and coffee with me to eat it in my hotel room but had no appetite. Ugh!  Surprisingly, I didn’t consider staying in bed. I couldn’t wait to get into the fresh air and to the race. I knew it would make me feel better (and I was right.)

I had to decide which was safer an Uber or the subway. It was way too far to walk as my hotel was on 39th and the race started on 108th (or so I thought). I chose the Uber and then I would walk home after the race. I brought a bag to check a jacket since I knew I would be cold after the race.

Course:

As advertised:

This race will start and finish near 108th Street inside Riverside Park. You’ll wind through tree-lined paths and waterfront walkways on this totally traffic-free and peaceful course. The course is challenging, but offers plenty of downhills to make up for the uphills! 

The waves started as early as  8 AM and ending at 12:30PM. I was scheduled for a 9 am start.

I checked the race email one more time in the Uber and it said to enter the park at 96th St.  Very confusing. So I got left off around 100th (in the middle).

I walked down to Riverside Park.  I was very early luckily. I had no idea which direction to walk.  I saw no racers.  I asked a runner and she said that she saw a start line around 97th St. And she was right. They changed the start (from previous races) to 97th St.

It was only 8:00 so I got to see the first group of runners take off.

I walked around as it was FREEZING and chatted with other runners waiting to start.  I didn’t want to leave my jacket at bag check until the very last moment.

brrr.

Eventually I had to and around 8:30 I entered the medical area where someone took my temperature. As you can see from the pic above, you stood two by two 6 ft apart and the person behind you was also 6 ft apart.

I wound starting with the 8:30 group (accidentally).

I actually wore my Garmin and was planning on recording my time with it (for the first time since Feb 2020).

 

(Too cold to take pictures during the race or after but below are a few from previous runs here:)

Mile 1:

As you can see from the map above, the race course was in a park along the Hudson River.  This park is not one I have run on frequently (I usually run in Central Park. ) But it is a nice place to run, walk or bike. What I am getting at is that it was not closed to other runners, bikers and dog walkers.  Due to the pandemic, it probably was not as crowded as it could have been.

So I took off with a younger runner and we ran together (masked) for a little bit.  She was faster and got ahead but could see her in my sight the whole race.

I had no time goals but since it was a race you know I wanted to not have an embarrassing time (that differs for everyone but for me it would be over 29 minutes lol).

I glanced down at my watch and noticed that my frigid hands had apparently not started it (!?)

Alrighty, another naked race.

So I just ran. Looking down so not to trip on cracks or slip on mud puddles (from yesterday’s rain) and more importantly, avoid the dogs.

I found out later from my friend that before 9 am, dogs do not have to be leashed here.  OY!!!

Also a lot of walkers had no idea that a race was going on.

All this kept me from obsessing about my time. It was not only COLD (20s with the wind chill) but crazy WINDY.  My hands and feet were frozen (but that didn’t keep my shoe that I doubled knotted from untying :).

I wish that I had started my watch so I could show you the elevation. It was VERY hilly. Up and downs but that made it interesting. I thought I might try to run up the hills but in the end, I walked/ran most of them.

Most runners had on their masks the whole time. Not sure if it was for safety or the cold. I think I had mine on…don’t remember but I’m glad it was a gaiter so it kept both my neck and face warm. (It was required at the start and finish lines.)

Mile 2:

For the 2nd mile, we turned and were running more along the river…colder and more windy. Yay!  But I think this part was flatter.

It was also now sunnier. I put on my sunglasses. But they kept fogging up. Grrr.

At mile 1.5, there was the turn around.

Halfway done.

Now we were running along side other runners who had started the race in later waves.  But it was wide enough not to feel crowded.

Mile 3:

A little past mile 2, we returned to the first part of the course.  Yup, those annoying hills in the reverse direction.

I just kept moving, passing some runners.  Runners were not passing me as they stayed ahead the whole race.

Finally I saw that finish line.  And the camera.  I tried to smile…Ha Ha. I was wearing my gaiter.

The clock read 1:02:XX but who knew what my actually time was.

I just wanted to get warm!! They handed you a bag of food. I sanitized my hands and headed to get my jacket.

DONE!!!

I immediately texted my friend who lives in Manhattan to arrange a meet-up. Unfortunately, Cari was still quarantining.

But first thing was to find a Starbucks to get a hot cup of coffee.  Ok, in NYC there is usually one on every corner.  Well, not during pandemic times.

After striking out 3 times, I found one.

soo good. sooo needed.

I kept walking and met up with Elizabeth around 72nd Street. We proceeded to chat our way around Central park until around 1 pm.

got to explore North Woods and Hudson Meer where I don’t normally hang out

I then walked all the way back to my hotel, had lunch and checked out so I could continue my holiday sightseeing before taking the train back north.

didn’t stray much beyond Fifth Avenue

18 miles for the day!!!!!!! I think it makes that I skipped my normal 10 mile run okay…

Additional Race Reflections:

It sounds like this was a negative experience.  You can’t control the weather.  And my feet did not hurt.  That’s a good thing.

Could I have run faster?

For sure.

Do I wish I has started my Garmin?

YES!  I love stats and in a short race, I think I could have made up time.

haven’t run a 5k this slow (uninjured & in dry weather) since maybe 2008, my first year of running.

I have come in FIRST in  my 6 previous NYCRUNS races. But no AG awards were given for this race.

Even so, at my best, I would not have won.

It would be nice if the site didn’t remind me of my last two races lol.

I’m ok with it. Totally 🙂

This is me now!!

very glad how I chose to spend the day

Positives:

  • Safety restrictions in place (temp. checks, staggered starts).
  • Wave starts so I got to start whenever I chose (between 8 am & 12:30 pm)
  • Views of the Hudson R.
  • Well marked course.
  • A real race.
  • Gaiter as swag (received beforehand in the mail).
  • Well organized.
  • Bag check offered.
  • Bib mailed ahead of time.
  • Post race refreshments (goodie bag along with Gatorade, Dole Fruit Bowls in 100% Juice and other snacks.)
  • No age group awards (a positive for me so I didn’t feel disappointed that I didn’t win one).
  • Free photos.
  • Spending time in NYC at holiday time.
  • Opportunity to connect (social distancingly) with a friend.
  • A real race.

Negatives:

  • No water stops (no volunteers).
  • No spectators.
  • Those nasty hills.
  • Used to be the Hot Cocoa 5k and you got hot cocoa at at the end (but understand why it was changed).
  • Expensive for a 5k ($40-60) but it is NYC.
  • My NYC friends were not able to join me in this race.
  • Tired legs (from the previous night’s walking).
  • Lack of speedwork prior to the race.
  • No sleep and upset stomach.
  • Dogs to trip on during the race.
  • Course advertised as starting and finishing on 108th rather than 97th.

Next Up:

????

Who knows?  Nothing local is currently scheduled. I’m not interested in running any virtual races.

Maybe a half marathon in Fort Lauderdale on Feb. 14 (if it is live and if it is safe to go.)

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! Have run a real race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 12.7.20-12.13.20: Happy Chanukah!

This week was a mixed bag.

It started on a high note.  Having just run a real race and had a mini vacay in NYC, I felt energized.

I am smiling beneath that gaiter 🙂

I took off a day from work this week and the weather was perfect for a run and a hike.

Things went downhill from there.

My external laptop monitor died (which is essential for my job). Not a big deal, I ordered a new one (and hooked up temporarily an old one).

But by the end of the week, I was in tears. My daughter-in-law lost the baby (at 15 weeks). No words for how devastated my family is.

Back to running. (I felt I had to share even though it’s personal because I posted in the Coffee Date that I was going to be a grandmother.)

Last Week –

  • Monday – Walking around NYC in boots rather than running shoes made my feet ache so I decided to call it a rest day. It was cold and breezy so it wasn’t a hard decision.

I did keep my streak alive (I think I have one…) of taking a walk at lunch. And then a short after work before getting my nails and my errands (that got missed over the weekend) done.

  • Tuesday – Another cold dreary morning. Again not tempted to walk before work. But dragged myself out at lunch for a run. I froze!!!!

Not only cloudy but windy too. I looked when I was done and it was “feels like 15 degrees!!” Ouch.

After work, I was not even tempted to go outdoors for a walk or hike.  I, instead, went to the mall to get in some steps (in a warm environment.)

  • Wednesday – Woke up to snow showers…UGH!  But the snow did stop with not much accumulated.  Again, I skipped my morning walk but got out at lunch.

It was still flurrying a bit and cold but not as windy as the day before.  The only thing that was cold was my feet.  I wore my trail shoes since I ran on the roads and there was a lot of black ice.

and I didn’t take any books or dvds today lol

No walk after work since I had a hair appt.

so fun to complete a virtual race virtually with friends. Thanks Jenn for the collage.

  • Thursday – Today I had the day off from work. It was nice to be able to run in the morning. Though cold, it is my favorite time of day to run. And I had time to drive somewhere to run. I decided to go to the Crossings followed by a trip to Trader Joe’s.

I had signed up for one more NYRR virtual 5k (see pic above) so I officially completed it today. Sorta. My watch died.  I started out in the park but it was slushy and icy so I continued onto a snowy trail and eventually ran in the neighborhoods.

notice anything amiss in my photo?

In the afternoon, I planned to go on a hike. I went back to the Van Buren Nature Trails (that I had visited a few weeks ago.) My friend Jan agreed to meet me there.

there were 4 colored trails…somehow we didn’t complete what we had planned…back again for visit #3, I guess.

Tonight was the first night of Chanukah so I lit the candles.  No gifts exchanged here.

flowers from TJ’s – they last 3 weeks so I can always have flowers in my house 🙂

  • Friday – No running today. But got in a few chilly walks.

more cute balloons in the ‘hood

The longer one was done with a friend after work around the outdoor mall.

  • Saturday – Back on track with my Saturday Long Runs. This week, we returned to the Nisky Bike Path. We hoped to get it done (including brunch) before the predicted rain.

I got there early to run 4 miles with Karen and then ran 6 more with my other friends. 10 done for day. No reason to run this many miles since I have no idea when my next half will be but what the hell? It definitely felt harder than usual. I think that skipping the 10 miler (in lieu of a 5k + 15 mile walk) had an effect.  I need the consistency, I guess.

and yes, we’re still doing outdoor brunch

  • Sunday – My traditional hiking day.  Since I’ve never hiked in the winter, I was leery of going anywhere where there would be ice or snow. I guess that is pretty limiting to any of the pretty mountain hikes.

I decided on Amy’s Park up north since there were several easy trails to choose from.

There is a race there but it was changed to virtual this year.

It was rainy on my drive up but happily it stopped and turned out to be a very nice day.  The trail was quit wet and muddy so I hiked the easy yellow (in both directions). I was alittle disappointed in the trails being out and back,

always love a waterfall

Since it was along drive, I decided I wanted to do more hiking. I stopped at a preserve but realized that it was way too icy so I continued into town.  I passed Up Yonda Farms and took a chance that there would be nice trails there. What a treasure!! I’ve been boating for 15 years there and never visited these trails.

lots of different trails and of course, an awesome view of Lake George.

It was so nice that I stopped for ice cream (egg nogg – tis the season).

Nothing like a day out in nature to take you mind off things.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  morning off, run
  • Tuesday – DAY OFF, run, hike, mall walk with BFF
  • Wednesday –  rest day, funeral for my grandson
  • Thursday –  run
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day, hiking, college ZOOM

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? Have the winter temps hit? How is your holiday decorating and shopping going? Does being out in nature cheer you up? Please share.

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Baby, It’s Cold Outside

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.

I must say that I HATE the cold.  I much prefer running in the heat but living in the Northeast, the cold arrives too soon and lasts too long. And although, it’s ONLY December 11 (and not even officially winter) …it’s COLD!!

I think that about sums things up.

So here are my top tips to make it through running in the winter:

1. Layers keep you warm but remember not to dress too warmly.  If it is 20 degrees, dress for 40. The bottom layer should be breathable.  You will sweat no matter how cold it is. My middle layer is usually a fleece vest and for the outside layer, I wear a windbreaker or light jacket.

The infographic below is very helpful:

or use this tool that will suggest what to wear, based on the info you input – http://www.runnersworld.com/what-to-wear

2. But wear enough to stay warm. I always wear tights with a skirt over them (keeps my butt warm). I wear wool socks, gloves/mittens and a beanie.  My head, hands and feet are what gets cold first.

if you are properly dressed, you can smile in the cold.

3. If you run when it is dark (yes it gets dark so early), wear light colors, carry a flashlight or wear a head lamp and run where there are lights.

I prefer knuckle lights

4. If it is snowing, wear Yak Trax or put screws in your shoe bottoms, go slower and watch for icy patches.

love my Yaks but always hope I never have to wear them

5. Don’t worry about fashion.

I usually care what I wear in the warmer months. But in the winter, not so much. I try not to spend much money on winter running clothes. I wear old race shirts and vests and jackets from Target.  I buy gloves at Dollar Store. I use $1 cut off knee socks as arm warmers.

The important thing is to just get out and RUN! And talk your friends into doing the same.  Misery loves company LOL.

Remember:

beasts

Happy Running!  Do you like running during the cold weather months? Any other tips? Has it already gotten cold where you live?

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2020 Bling

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

The Topic for today is: Show us your year in bling? 

2020 was not a big year for “real” races so obviously my collection of bling was not large as in a normal year. Still, I did collect a few medals & swag.

In Person Races

Virtual Races

Virtual Challenges

Age Group Awards

Which ones were my favorite(s)?

The medals from the in-person races.  Those are actually the ones where I feel that I “earned” the bling.

The others were just from runs.  Those medals don’t have much meaning for me (though some are very nice.) But I did appreciate all of the swag that I received from many of the virtual events (esp. the gaiters).

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! Did you get a lot of bling this year?  Which was your favorite? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 11.30.20-12.6.20: NYC Bound?

Lots of running and good weather last week.

Hoping for more of the same though not optimistic for two weeks in a row. And unfortunately, there was quite a bit of rain this week.   In other words, getting wet on my runs.

My tentative plan for the weekend was to break away from my computer and go to NYC to race, meet up with friends, see the holiday decorations, etc.

But I waited until the last minute to decide: if I felt safe, if the predicted rain would happen and if I would have fun if wearing a mask for the entire weekend.

Stay tuned…

Last Week –

  • Monday – Normally my run day (#nevemissamonday) but there was hard rain on the way. I managed to sneak in a run outside before work (not early enough for sunrise). It was cloudy, humid but the forecast lied.  It started to rain as soon as I started running. The rain was light until the last mile.

I’m smiling because I found in one of the small library boxes, a copy of two of my favorite holiday videos. Yes, I stuffed them inside my waist band and ran 2 miles like that. Who doesn’t love “Love Actually”?

It rained harder as the day wore on…not even tempted to go for lunch walk.  Only ventured out after work to do errands.

  • Tuesday – Woke up to pouring rain again!  And then the power went off. I ventured out to see what was wrong since it was only raining lightly.  Got in only a mile before I got drenched. Without Internet, I could not work.  When the rain lightened, I went out again.  This time the rain stopped and the sun came out.  A power line had come down and by 10:15 am, we had power back and I could work.

actually very warm out and got my unplanned run done in two installments.

It looked like the temps would be dropping so I went for a walk during lunch. And indeed, windy and much colder than the morning. Dressed warmer for my post work walk.

  • Wednesday – Another cloudy cold morning with rain/snow on the way. I did get in a walk at lunch… I thought about running but just didn’t feel like it.  After work, I decided to venture out. It was less windy but still COLD! I should have checked the forecast because as soon as I started to run, it started to rain. Light at first but then it changed to freezing rain (the third day in a row getting wet on the run!!) I stopped my run at that point and headed to the library to return some books. Then the rain stopped and I finished my run.  At this point it felt delightful.

pt 1 on the rail trail and pt 2 in town and the neighborhood

  • Thursday – It looked finally like a day without rain.  There was even some sunshine though colder than previous days. I walked at lunch at a nearby nature preserve.

I hadn’t been in awhile…sure looked different without all the leaves on the trees…and boy, was it MUDDY!

After work, I met a friend to run through the holidays lights in the park… so fun.

Then I met my BFF for our usual 1.5 hr walk around an outdoor mall.

  • Friday – Debating all morning about the rainy forecast for NYC. Normally I would not mind but I planned to walk (rather than take the subway), eat take out (rather than in restaurants), visit the sites (rather than shop) … all would not be fun in the pouring rain.

I eventually opted to slow short run at lunch (yes, 5 days in a row) but then skip my long run on Saturday. (My group wasn’t gathering anyway due to the rain forecast.)

Hit for the water line since it was more convenient & I felt like avoiding the cars and dog walkers in the ‘hood. Even on a cloudy day, you can find beauty in nature.

Ended the day with some errands (in prep for my NYC trip) and my usual friends walk.

  • Saturday – A lazy morning (skipped my walk) but packed instead. I had decided to take an afternoon train to NYC.  My plan was to avoid traipsing around all day in the rain and just stay later on Sunday.

I arrived around 4 pm, checked into my hotel.  It was almost sunset so I rushed to the Vessel (I had pre-bought tix) to get in a view.  (and it was no longer raining and not cold.)

It never disappoints…even prettier than the pics.

Then I continued to walk around the area taking in the festive atmosphere.

Sixth Avenue, Saks, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, etc

I tried to make it an early night and get my #flatme settled.  It is hard when you are not at home (and you have plan for pre-race, race and post-race dress options.)

I didn’t know how COLD and windy it would be the next morning…

  • Sunday – Race Day – Winter Classic 5k – Got up bright and early (after a sleepless night) and took an Uber to the start. Made through all the COVID safety protocols and cautiously ran a hilly COLD 5k in Riverside Park. (Recap coming on Dec. 15.)

no watch and my slowest 5k in forever but I did it and it was worth it!!

I had done bag check so I could hang around after the race (and not freeze) and meet my friend Elizabeth. We spent hours in the park exploring parts that I rarely get to when I come to NYC.

don’t let those blue skies fool you. it was chilly.

Then, I walked umpteen blocks back to my hotel, changed my clothes and took more of the holiday sights of the city before getting an evening train home.

fifth avenue!! 18 miles walked today (counts as my long run??)

So happy to have decided to take a weekend away. No better place to get in the holiday spirit (even in a mask) than NYC.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday –  rest day
  • Tuesday – run
  • Wednesday –  rest day. hair appt
  • Thursday – DAY OFF, run, hike
  • Friday – rest day, walk with friends
  • Saturday –  Long Run
  • Sunday – rest day, hiking

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? Any “real” races yet?  Have you decorated for the holidays yet? Do you usually go to NYC or a big to see all the decorations? Please share.

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Ultimate Coffee Date for December

It’s that time of the month…

Running Therapy

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

Yes, it’s been that kind of month..

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I always set 1000 miles as my yearly goal for running.  I’ve only reached that milestone twice (2016 & 2017).  But it means that I’ve been consistent with my running and didn’t have too many injuries.  I was pretty sure that due to my painful neuroma, toe and bunion plus the strained SI joint, I would not reach it this year. But I just may. Stay tuned…

just getting in the miles with the help of my friends.

Do you have yearly, monthly or weekly mileage goals?

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’m still struggling with remembering what to wear when it is cold out.  I run “hot.”  And I can’t stand to be warm when I run.  I get sweaty and then afterward, I am really chilled.  I hope I figure it out before spring. LOL

still wearing the extra jacket and having to tie it around my waist – ugh!

Are you successful in dressing properly when the seasons change?

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am not sure when my next half marathon will be.  As of now, there are NONE scheduled in my area. There are two that I’m eyeing for February in Florida.  But who can make plans with the rise in COVID cases. Nevertheless, I’ve decided to try to keep up my run at least 10 miles on Saturday streak.

It’s a little challenging in the cold weather and when no one else is running that many miles

Do you run double digit runs even if you are not training for a race?

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the pandemic is lasting longer than I ever thought.  I’m not a gym person but I did go when I couldn’t run to use the stationary bike.  Of course, I thought by winter, it would be open again. Nope. Not happening.  I’m debating on what to do when it is unsafe to run outside (snow, ice).  I’m not a treadmill person but maybe a spin bike???

I’ve only tried one in the hotel in NYC

Any recommendations?  Not a Peleton but an inexpensive spin bike? 

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I don’t like to share all the doom and gloom in my life on the blog (not judging anyone who needs to) but now I have good news.

All four of my immediate family members who were very sick with COVID seem to be on the mend.  Phew.  It was very scary.

I hope none of you personally have to deal with this awful virus.

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.

Happy Running! Got anything to spill? Share it here!
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