November 5, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Break for Nov. ’21 (Sunglass Saga)

It’s that time of the month…

t-shirt_keep calm_sunglasses_FINAL

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

1. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I lost a lens in my Goodr sunglasses. I contacted Goodr and in case you wear Goodrs too, here’s another reason to love them. They replaced them for FREE!

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I also wrecked the lens in my favorite pair of Goodrs (Pride theme). Unfortunately, they no longer make that style. I ordered a bland grey pair instead. But they replaced them also for free.

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that when my new Goodrs arrived, I realized that I had already replaced them. (Senior brain.)

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that that it gets worse, I was cleaning out my car and found the missing lens.

So who wants to trade???? I’ll send you my white/blue Goodrs if you send me one of yours…

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I always try to match my Goodrs to my outfit

or the season…

Fall and Christmas

I also buy ones from a favorite race.

Wineglass, NYC and Surftown

Yes, I have many pairs.

Can you have too many Goodrs?? I think not.

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Do you wear Goodrs? If not, what is your favorite brand? Please share.

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

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

November 2, 2021 by Darlene

TT: What I Learned from my Best Race

Next week’s topic is What did you learn from your best race?

Ok, I am a week early (but my tips for using a treadmill are “go outside.” lol)

First of all, how do you define your “BEST” race?

Is it a PR? Is it one that you ran as planned? Is it one that you had the most fun at?

I am going to talk about my Half Marathon PR:

Steel Rail HM – May 2017

Here is what I learned from that race:

Rest Days during the week before the race are important.

In fact, I need two before race day and no shakeout run on race morning.

Running All the Miles on the plan is not always necessary.

For me, that is over training. I’ve done better when I skip some of my long runs or shorten them (and run a 5k race).

Elevation matters.

I prefer flat but not totally flat. Hills but not too many or too steep. I have run one downhill race and it didn’t turn out great.

Walking is Okay.

I usually just walk at the water stops but that depends on how often they are. If I try not to walk, my pace slows down…a lot. Of course, that means you can’t walk slow or for a long time.

What you Wear matters.

For me, everything must match. lol.

I cannot be over dressed. I’d rather be cold. (I run warm.)

a tank to run in but always have warm clothes for after the race

My feet have issues. So I need new(ish) shoes!!

I need to Fuel my Body.

During a half marathon, I eat a GU every 3-5 miles. Usually 3 during the race. Sometimes even one before (if my breakfast was more than 2 hours earlier.) When I don’t eat enough, I don’t have the energy to run well.

A Watch does NOT make you faster.

This PR was at a race where my Garmin kept re-setting after mile 6 and mile 12 so I had no idea of my time until I crossed the finish line.

When I ran by feel, I didn’t slow down worrying that my pace was too fast and I need to save my legs for later miles. I just ran … for fun! No pressure, I think that made all the difference.

A Positive Attitude is essential.

Mind over Mater, right? If you go into the race thinking negative thoughts, it will probably not be a good one.

I knew that this race did not have a challenging course as half marathons go. I had run the same course 7 months earlier and did well. So I entered the race relaxed and feeling good.

Anything can happen on Race Day!!

All of the above could be in place and you can have the worst race ever.

Feb 2021 – 30 minutes slower

The good news is that hopefully it will not be your last race and your best race could be right around the corner.

Happy Running! What have you learned from your “best” race? Please share.

runner-sig

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.

October 31, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.24.21-10.31.21: Training and Raining

No weekend 5k last week so I could concentrate on the 11 mile Long Run.

We had previously been blessed with such great weather. Well, that ended. Many runners don’t mind running in the rain. I am not one of them. lol.

Fortunately I always have flowers in my kitchen (that I buy for myself at Trader Joes) which brighten my day (even when it cloudy and rainy). And they last for weeks too (although I hope we have more sunshine this coming week.)

Last Week:

Sunday – Since I had only run a 5k on Saturday instead of the planned 10 miler, I decided to explore a new route, run 7 miles there and then go for two nearby hikes afterwards.

Monday – I had not planned to run after running on both Saturday and Sunday, But Sunday’s run was easy and the pouring ran had stopped by lunchtime and threatened to start again. So off I ran.

I get very bored in my neighborhood so I took a drive… I think the colors are prettier on a cloudy day.

I met a friend with my umbrella for an after work walk (and of course, it never rained until we were finished.)

Tuesday – Another rainy day. I had no plans on joining the TTTC group. I did think about joining ARE’s Track workout (for the first time) if the rain stopped.

The rain never stopped ALL DAY. My first track workout will have to wait until next Tuesday. And I had to get my walk in at the mall.

Wednesday – A scheduled rest day due to a hair appt. Of course, it was a nice weather day. I hate when that happens. So I decided to squeeze in a run.

it was very windy (but dry) and I did not have a lot of time… a short run is better than no run, right?

During my hair appt, I got a text that our power was out. So I headed to the mall and walked around until the power came back on.

Thursday – Back to trying to fit runs in during lunch or waiting to run or walk after work with friends. I decided to wait until after work and walk at lunch.

I walked on the water line behind my house since I hadn’t been there in ages.

chilly, damp and muddy but still glad to be outdoors.

I drove to the end of the rail trail and ran solo

still working on fall running attire – always cold at first and then too hot

and then met friends nearby for cookies (since they were not able to meet me to run.)

the good news: it was too cold to order ice cream and I only ate ONE warm cookie and my hubby finished off the bag.

Friday -Another rest day and an evening playing mah jongg.

Saturday – Long Run Day! Of course, rain was predicted. But then the forecast changed to rain after 11 am. So we all decided to give it a go. I arrived early on the rail trail and ran 2 (in the rain… Boo). By the time everyone else arrived the rain had stopped. 9 more miles with Sherry while the others did their own thing. We met after at a new breakfast spot (which did not get rave reviews but my pumpkin waffles were delish).

I dressed for the occasion and like the others got warm while running (3 other runners not pictured)

The hubby wanted to go out for dinner so I had to indulge him.

the pumpkin cannoli was the highlight

Sunday – I had originally planned to volunteer at a local trail race. I changed my mind when my friends were not running it and the forecast was for rain (and just in case I needed to change my long from from Saturday to Sunday.) And it did rain in the am. So I continued my d-cluttering obsession…

and then took off to go hiking

First I stopped off at a Sculpture Park

unfortunately it was closed but that didn’t stop me from taking pix

and then to see some nearby falls and stroll on the Electric Trail.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!! Champ and I are looking forward to giving out candy tonight!

This Coming Week on the Run:

Monday – run, walk with friends
Tuesday – ~~TTTC group run~~, ARE track workout
Wednesday – run, walk with friends
Thursday – rest day, help friend move
Friday -rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (12 miles)
Sunday – rest day, hiking

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – What I learned from my best race
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

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 in-person races planned? Please share.

October 29, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for Oct. ’21

First Runfessions of Fall

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

1. I runfess…

I signed up for 10 week Troy Turkey Trot Challenge because I wanted to train for the 10K and to run with my usual Challenge friends.

Well, for the ‘advanced” group, there really isn’t a coach. Different and few runners show up each week. My friends did not sign up. The course is often on the track or a dark neighborhood or campus route. It was only 8 weeks not Ten.

I’m not a quitter. But I may skip the rest of the runs and I definitely will not sign up next year.

2. I runfess…

I won my age group at a recent 5k (Malta 5k). They didn’t have an award ceremony. You had to pick up the award at the local Fleet Feet store (which is not local for me.)

So I ignored it. I figured it was another medal that I didn’t need.

While I was in NH for my half, I got a call from someone at the store reminding me to pickup my award. Coincidentally, he would be in NH running the same race. Anyway, I asked him what the award was and he replied: Gift card to Fleet Feet. My response: I’ll pick it next Sat.

Long story short, I drove there the next Saturday but the RD has picked up the awards. (They may track it down and mail it to me.. but I doubt it.)

I didn’t want to waste the long drive:

new Topos for my November half marathon

3.I runfess…

After reading all those posts about saving money, I went to the Poshmark site…

Yup, I HAD to buy them.

Of course I would have saved more money if I didn’t buy them at all.

4. I runfess…

Now that I have signed up for ALL my 2021 races (I will have run 21 by the end of the year), I am figuring out my 2022 schedule.

I think I have my February Florida half marathon picked (a deferral from 2020)

Feb. 13, 2022 in Melbourne

but I am debating on my January race…

I definitely am having NYC FOMO:

Fred Lebow Manhattan Half-Marathon - NY, USA - Jan 19 2020 -

Jan. 23, 2022 in Central Park, NYC – I want the HAT!! – cheaper

2022 NYCRUNS Frozen Penguin 5K | New York

Jan 9, 2022 – also in CP – a better date

5.I runfess…

My April half marathon choice is even more difficult..

Apr. 16, 2022 – local and downhill (if they go back to the original pre-Pandemic course)

NYCRUNS Big Apple Half Marathon & 5K | New York City's Best Races

Apr. 24, 2022 – in Brooklyn

It’s nice to finally say that there are actually choices.

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Do you replace your shoes often? Have you signed up for any 2022 races yet? Please share.

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

So Join in!

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

October 26, 2021 by Darlene

Summer Smith Memorial 5K Race Recap

October 23, 2021 – 9:45 am – The Crossings

This was the fifth year for this 5K race which is organized by the mother of one of the STEM runners who died of an overdose after completing her first 5k. This is her story – https://www.summersmith5k.com/summer-s-story

I was in the middle of training for a November 15k race and a half marathon…

However, I just had to do this race. I knew that there would be many other runners and volunteers from the STEM program. I wanted to support this cause and I am fortunate to have known and run with Summer.

The first four years that I ran this race, it was held at the end of May and started at a local High School.

: 2016

: 2017

: 2018

: 2019

Due to COVID, the date was changed and the location was witched to The Crossings. The Crossings is not my favorite place to race. I have run there so often but it is what it is.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

It was a few weeks after a half marathon (Oct. 3) and a few weeks before another half marathon (Nov 21).

So I’ve done the short runs on weekdays.

And long runs on the weekend.

: Oct 3 – Smuttynose HM

I carb load with pizza whether it is 13.1 miles or 3.1. I also wear the same outfit:

I added arm warmer and gloves but had a feeling that I might be cold.

Race Day:

The race, as previously mentioned, started at The Crossings where there are real bathrooms, easy parking, and ample room to hang out before and after the race.

Many who were in Summer’s STEM group were there. It was pretty emotional. I still get teary-eyed when I think about her.

This race is always one of the most organized races I’ve run. After you got your bib, you got a bag labelled with your name with a shirt and other swag.

There were tables with representatives from relevant organizations (alcohol & drug abuse) also giving out freebies.

There were also many many raffle items (most running-related but again I forgot to bring $$).

Before the race (at 9 am), there was a prayer and dedication ceremony

followed by a balloon release.

31 balloons were released for Summer (that was her age when she died).

Then purple balloons released for the others who also lost their lives due to drugs or alcohol. Probably not a dry eye in the crowd.

The ceremony was followed by music and a Zumba session as well as a kids race.

I waited around and chatted with many of the runners that I knew and many that I haven’t seen since the last STEM race.

hanging with my friend Judy

As you can see, it was very cool before we started the race. I changed my outfit and added a long sleeved shirt under my shirt. I also had gloves, a jacket and arm warmers.

The the sun came out and I wisely took off my jacket and arm warmers. Some of my running friends who didn’t run the race came out to cheer. They held my throw-aways, cheered us on and took photos. ❤ ❤

The course:

a 3.2 loop around the park

Elevation according to my Garmin:

looks hillier than it was… mostly flat with some rolling hills

I have run this 5k route for several races but not in recent years (May 2016) …and it’s never been one of my better 5ks.

Mile 1:

I lined up pretty close to the front since there were many slower runners and walkers in this race.

I just did the best I could. Not PR fast but I wanted to finish with a respectable time. With the chilly temps and no warm up, my legs felt like lead at the beginning. I There was a lot of support along the course. Friends of the families who lost loved ones to drugs were holding signs in their memory. I was glad that I was running to support this charity.

It felt really hard to breathe. I thought it was the cold air. But probably when I look at my pace, as usual I started out too fast. The course was a loop so I saw two of my runner friends cheering during the first mile (and then again during the last).

Mile 2:

The rolling hills started during this mile. I slowed down and I felt a lot better. But I definitely regretted that extra shirt. I was HOT!! The crowd also spread out and I was alone most of this mile.

This was a water stop but I passed it by without stopping.

The crowd support was great. Every volunteer that I passed carry a sign (for a loved one lost to drugs/alcohol), thanked me for running the race.

I saw another running friend cheering me on during this mile as well. I was surprised but glad to see her.

Mile 3-3.1:

Ok now I was getting tired. I probably could have dragged myself through the last mile and not walk. But I always felt energized after a quick walk and I did.

But as I got close to the finish line, I walked one more time.

Of course when I saw my friends, I picked up the pace.

Finally the finish line was in sight, I gave it all I had (which wasn’t much at this point) as my friend yelled “Go Darlene. You got this. Sub 30.”

My thought was “Sub-30?” but then I looked at the clock and it said 28:XX. Phew!

I was pleased. I knew the two walks during the last mile would definitely prevent me from having my first sub 28 finish of the year. (In fact this was slower than my previous four 5ks).

I waited for Judy to finish and was happy that she had a good race too.

Post Race:

We hung around for awhile, chatted and then looked at the results.

Both Judy and I won our age group!! About 200 in the race.

I was starved since I had eaten breakfast 5 hours ago so I had some chocolate milk and pizza.

We decided not to wait for the awards and to go out to brunch.

This is the medal that I would have gotten (and I have several of the same ones from other years)

And those extra 7 miles that was supposed to run just got postponed to Sunday.

Additional Race Reflections:

I was happy to support this charity. Plus the race was so well-organized.

I am so humbled by these STEM women and others who have overcome adversity. And I am glad to be a part of their lives.

Tyler has WON this race 5 years in a row honoring his brother.

Positives:

- Ample parking.
- Well marked course.
- Varied park scenery.
- Virtual option available.
- Indoor restrooms
- A real race.
- Flatish course.
- Immediate results.
- Chocolate milk.
- Many familiar faces.
- Crowd Support
- Post-race Refreshments
- Great cause.

Negatives:

- Too familiar course
- Annoying uphills
- Over Dressed (my fault)
- No speedwork to prepare (my fault)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Great organization. Great cause!!!

It will next be on June 11 and if possible back on its original course.

Final Stats:

Splits:

two walks during mile 3…

Next Up:

a 15k on November 14 and another half marathon on November 21.

Stockadeathon – 15K Road Race

logo

Happy Running! What is your favorite charity to support for a race? Do race because of the cause?

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

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

October 24, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.18.21-10.24.21: Fall Temps, more Hikes and a 5K

Last week, I complained that although it looked like Fall, it felt like summer.

This week, thanks to weekend rain, the temps cooled down. That didn’t make me happy but I am savoring the last minutes of afternoon daylight. And I did get some fall hiking in.

Though, I’m in the meddle of training for a half marathon, I participated in a 5k (for charity reasons). Always feels good when you give back.

Last Week:

Monday – No time to run but after work, it’s still light enough and I decided on UAlbany (post rain shower). I did not realize how cold and windy it had gotten.

brrr! run shortened due to frozen ears and hands. (the purple line was from a recent race.)

And then after dinner, I met my BFF for a walk around the mall.

Tuesday – My 3rd meeting with the TTTC group was scheduled for tonight. I am debating about leaving the group. It involves waiting until 6 pm to run and running around a college campus and/or track in the dark. And not much coaching (which used to be the highlight for me) and fewer and different participants each week.

So instead I ran during lunch

chilly at first but with the sun, I warmed up quickly

and then was able to meet friends to walk after work.

chose a different place – Pine hollow arboretum

Wednesday – Rest Day! I did take a walk at lunch but then met my tennis friends to visit a local museum and then out to dinner (at a restaurant on the Mohawk river). Always a fun time getting together with these ladies.

3 left before the group photo

Thursday – A run squeezed in at lunch (in case my friend was unavailable after work).

crazy weather. it seemed that summer was back. the top left house has the skeletons in a different pose each week – beer pong, fencing, riding a tractor and today painting

It was the right move since my friend was indeed unable to run so instead I went for a hike,

Five Rivers was lovely and nearby.

Friday – Rest Day! Not much activity…just mah jongg in the evening and getting ready my #flatme.

fingers crossed that it is not as chilly as predicted.

Saturday – Summer Smith Memorial 5k. This race used to be in May but due to COVID, it got changed to today. Poor timing since I had a 10 mile long run planned for the day. As soon as I arrived, I didn’t regret my choice to run it one bit.

changed my outfit and sweat but connected with a lot of familiar faces and even won my age group.

I had the choice of running 7 more miles after the race or joining others for brunch.

Yup, I chose brunch with my running friends and then did some errands.

Sunday – Plans are made to be broken. I decided to only run 7 miles and on a new path…

a great path to run on and the weather was perfect…but I HATE running alone!

and then go hiking after (in that area).

Hike #1: many trails…I could have stayed forever…

Hike #2: loved being outdoors on this beautiful day

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – run, walk with friends
Tuesday – ~~TTTC group run~~, track workout
Wednesday – rest day, hair appt.
Thursday – run
Friday -rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (11 miles)
Sunday – rest day, hiking

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Summer Smith Memorial 5K Race Recap
Friday – Runfessions

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races planned? Please share.

October 22, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Racing without Training

As Fall seems to be the time for Big races (especially this year), this topic seems appropriate.

Grete Waitz is a legend and I always think of her when I hear people lament that they are running a race but they didn’t train well. (Often it is me LOL)

She had never run farther than 12 miles before her first marathon in New York in 1978. Not only did she finish the race, but she won it – and set a course record. At age 25.

Most unprepared runners aren’t so lucky.

So if you are signed up to run a big race and have not adequately trained for it, here are some things you can do:

1.Consider your alternatives.

Some races allow runners to switch from a marathon to a half-marathon, a half to a 5K, or to enter a relay with friends rather than completing the entire distance alone. You can also try contacting the race director to see if you can transfer your bib to next year’s race. Volunteering to give out water or simply cheering are also good ways to be part of the race without risking injury.

my friend Tina downgraded to the 5k from the Half. (in Montreal)

two of friends (left & right) decided to spectate rather than run.

But if you’re committed to running the entire race. All hope is not lost. You just have to approach the race with the strategy and mindset of a champion – even if your training was anything but.

2.Prepare Your Body

Sometimes life or your body gets in the way of your training.

So two weeks prior to the race, do not do anything crazy. The last thing you want to do in the final two weeks is squeeze in those long runs because you think that you will be better prepared for the race.

The best thing you can do is just get a few short runs in to keep your legs fresh.

Calf injury curtailed my Half training – had to cut back rather than doing my long double digit runs.

In other words, don’t cram in those miles.

3.Prepare Your Mind

It’s even more important to manage your expectations when entering a race with little or no training.

It is very unlikely that if you didn’t train for the race that you will achieve a PR or BQ.

thrilled with finishing the NYC Half Marathon

my friend Deb walked the half because she hadn’t trained

Remember to celebrate FINISH LINES not FINISH TIMES.

4.Race Strategically

Once the gun goes off, hold yourself back. Pace yourself, take walk breaks and even take time periodically to stop, stretch and massage any muscles that are getting tense.

You can also play mind games with yourself. Think about the race as smaller segments – a half marathon could be broken into about four 5Ks races, for example.

Another hint is to “Run the mile you’re in” rather than thinking about all the miles you have YET to run and how hard it will be to finish the race distance.

with no double digits runs done for this half…my legs were indeed weary at this 15k point!!

Try to maintain positivity, not panic. This is the real trick to finishing a race when you’re not trained.

I’m certainly not an expert but something special happens on race day. You have support, you have crowds, you have water stops, and more.

You will be mentally fired up in a way that you cannot be for any training run – that’s why we do races. You have to have faith in race day magic.

Believe me, it will happen.

my friend Heidi lost some precious weeks early in her training but she adapted and ran a great race

5.Have fun!

If you are not trained for race, the race will most likely feel tough but it can still be enjoyable.

Often, the greatest joy comes from the toughest challenges.

As they say: “Pain is temporary. Pride lasts forever”

I say “GO FOR IT!”

This was my slowest half marathon (in 2011). I walked half of it due to recovering from an Achilles injury but I had the BEST time!!

** None of the above applies to racing with a serious injury or against Doctor’s orders!!!

Happy Running! Have you ever run a race without training? How did it turn out? If so, any other tips to add? Please share.

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

and add your link below:

October 19, 2021 by Darlene

TT: National Savings Day (a week late)

glove- $1, arm sleeves – $1, shirt – from a race, skirt – free gift from a friend, calf sleeves – w/ ambassador discount

This Tuesday’s topic is How do you save money on running gear/races?

Ok so this was last week’s topic. Better Late than Never.

I admit it. I’m cheap sometimes. I do not have to buy all the gadgets or expensive clothing.

Here are a few ways I save money:

Register for races EARLY.

I know that this can be dangerous but I always register when the price is the cheapest. I may have been burned a few times but I know that I have saved more money than I’ve lost.

I’m already registering for 2022 races as they become available.

DIY Arm Sleeves

Even though I am a Zensah ambassador, I just buy cheap ($1 ones if possible) knee socks and cut off the foot. I can either throw them away or stuff them in a pocket.

: 2021

Dollar Store Gloves

Love them. They’re light. You can double up (in colder weather) and most importantly, they’re cheap so you will probably never lose them.

Older Models of Shoes

Once you find a pair of running shoes you love, they will change them. The good news that that the older models are cheaper.

Online Used Running Clothes

I have gotten some great deals on clothing in good condition that other runners no longer want. There are many sites. Poshmark is one. Skirt Sports has a FB page as well.

Even better is to sell the clothes that no longer fit or than you no longer wear. Use that money to buy new stuff lol

I runfessed about both HERE.

Go Low Tech

What did runners do before treadmills, watches and recovery tools??

Don’t hate me for saying this…

But instead of buying a treadmill, run outside! Instead of a foam roller, use a tennis, golf or lacrosse ball.

Do you really need all the stats on the latest running watch?

Become an Ambassador

I will say that it is not easy to get selected as a brand ambassador especially for the competitive ones (if you do not have a high readership or zillions of followers on your social media accounts).

And the discounts you get (due to the increased number of ambassadors and cost of products) are not as great as in the past. But still it is something if you are are going to buy those items anyway.

My two favorites:

Happy Running! How do you save money on running gear/races?? Please share.

runner-sig

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.

October 17, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.11.21-10.17.21: Celebrating Fall

Leaves are falling and the colors are changing…but at times, the temps still feel like summer (70’s). That’s ok with me. I like to wear my tanks and skirts as long as possible.

Things seem to happen in spurts… But this week was packed with celebrations (Healthy eating starts next week lol).

Last Week:

Monday – I had the day off from work. I wanted to go hiking but it was the last day of boating season so my hubby took the day off from work too. We got to the marina early so I could go for a run.

I used to run here all the time when I slept on the boat…but it’s been awhile and yes, I dressed for the season.

Rather than bringing lunch to eat on the lake (as we usually do), we decided to eat at a restaurant on the lake.

We got very lucky. The weather was picture perfect. Though this summer, we did not spend spend as much time on the boat as usual, it is always sad to put it away for the season.

Tuesday – Back to work. A lunch walk in the park…

I forgot how much I enjoyed these walks esp. in the Fall

and the 2nd in-person session of the TTTC group run. Again I ran with the advanced group which included different runners than last week.

2 loops of the campus and 2 loops of the track… with 2 minute speed intervals in the mix

Wednesday – Rest day and a quick walk during lunch at a nearby nature preserve…

a little muddy but worth it…

And then after work, we went to my stepson’s for dinner.

Thursday – Squeezed in a lunch run on the rail trail so I could again walk after work with friends.

Friday – Another rest day. A college friend (who lives in NJ) was passing through on her way home from a biking trip. I was able to get together with her and a local college friend. I thought we’d hike in the afternoon (I got out of work early) but they arrived later than planned so I did a short one on my own …

this was a brand new trail and it overlooked the rail trail that I run on often.

then a longer one

I’ve been coming here since the 70s and still enjoy the view

before we eventually met for a walk in a park.

It was also my stepson’s birthday so we went out to dinner with the fam.

Saturday – Long Run time. This week we chose the rail trail. I started early and then ran 8 miles with others (followed by brunch, of course.)

that’s an ugly turkey vulture

In the evening, it was dress up time as I went out to celebrate a friend’s birthday.

Sunday – Hiking has returned. I had plans to hike with a running friend. And we visited three different trails between the rain showers.

Vroman’s Nose

We met two running friends for lunch after the first trail.

Christman Nature Sanctuary and the bottom right is from Winn Nature Preserve

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – run. walk with BFF
Tuesday – TTTC group run
Wednesday – rest day, museum/dinner with tennis friends
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday -rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Summer Smith Memorial 5k (+ 7 more miles)
Sunday – long run (if miles not added on Sat) or hiking

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – National Savings Day
Friday – Running Without Training

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races planned? Please share.

October 15, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Big Hairy Goal (part 2)

Last week, I posted about Why you should set a Big Hairy Goal.

Today I am going to offer some tips to help achieve that goal:

1. Create a Schedule

Don’t leave running to chance, Post your schedule where it is easily accessible (paper calendar, online calendar, etc.) And stick to it.

2. Eliminate Barriers

Lay your clothes out the night before you’re due for a morning run. Bring your clothes to the office if you are running after work.

3. Enlist an Accountability Partner

Find a running partner or a coach or someone to check in with regarding your runs and progress toward your goal.

4. Eliminate Distractions

If checking social media before a run decreases the likelihood that you go on said run, save that for a post-run. Same with walking a dog. Do it at another time or have someone else in your household do it so you can run.

5. Plan a Reward

What ever it takes to give you that added motivation. Food, New clothes, a Trip, etc.