February 5, 2021 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for February 2021

It’s that time of the month…

Starbucks Coffee City Mug Collection- Florida, 16 Oz Cup

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

I live in upstate NY so it’s HOT coffee in the morning before work and red wine in front of the fireplace at night.

1. Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I got my first COVID-19 vaccine and am anxiously waiting for the second one. It’s the first step but we still have along way to go. And the distribution here was very chaotic. Hope it is more organized where you live.

I got the COVID-19 vaccine! Can I toss my mask? | MIT Medical

2.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I can’t wait to skip town. My last hotel stay was Dec 6 (in NYC) and my last vacation stay was in NH in October. (I know I am lucky. Most people have been at home since March 2020 and have zero future plans).

We haven’t had a really bad winter but still I am looking forward to feeling the sand beneath my toes. And SUNSHINE!!! (I need some Vitamin D!)

back in Feb. 2019

I am not weather stalking (well, maybe a little). It may not be warm but I know that it will be warmer than it is in NY and there will be NO ice or snow.

3.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that the reason I’m heading for a warm weather vacation is to run a half marathon. No surprise. I had a really hard time making the decision to take this vacation because of the Pandemic.

2021 Publix Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon, Half Marathon, Kids Race - SUNDAY - Fort Lauderdale, FL 2021 | ACTIVE

Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon – February 14, 2021

Not because I was afraid of catching COVID (maybe a little) but because I wasn’t sure if I would have fun. I knew it would not be the same as in previous years. I was planning on staying in two hotels instead of with my friends. I would see them but for the most part, I would be on my own.

Another friend from college, Patty, will be in Delray/Boca too.

In the end, I felt that seeing the sunrise on the ocean each morning, going to the beach, visiting the bird sanctuaries and gardens, eating outdoors and completing a half marathon were reasons enough to take the trip. Plus I would be using free points for my hotel, car, and credit for the flight (and not spending much money.)

4.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that that I will still be running this half marathon for fun. I did complete all my long runs to train for this race but my competitive mojo has deserted me. In a good way, I think.

I mean it’s been a year since I have worn my Garmin (Hope it still works.)

Feb 15, 2020

5.Over coffee/wine…

I’d tell you that I am still years later deathly afraid of running on ice or snow. I don’t want a repeat of the broken ankle and be out of running for five months. Of course this limits where I can run in the winter. But more importantly, it rules out any hiking. So I bit the bullet, pulled out my yak trax and hiking poles and have ventured out on the trails.

I go alone and walk VERY slowly but better than missing out on nature in the winter.

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.

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Do you do any solo winter hiking? Any vacations or any races planned for this winter? Do you know when you will get your vaccines? Please share.

February 2, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Best Running Views From Around the World

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Best Running Views From Around the World

Gee, I wish I had traveled more.

Some of the other bloggers will probably have more interesting views but here are my favorites:

In the US:

New York City

Upstate NY

Florida

Palm Springs, CA

Denver

Las Vegas

Outside the US:

Montreal

Paris

Bermuda

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

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! What/where are some of your favorite running views? Please share.

January 31, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.25.21-1.31.21: Wrapping Up the First Month of 2021

Well, January has ended. We have a new President. Many people have gotten their first COVID vaccine. My hubby has even received his 2nd dose (No reaction!!)

My running has gotten off to a decent start. I’m on my way (barring injury) to 1000 miles for the year.

Despite the cold, snow and ice, I’ve continued hiking. I have already visited FOUR new trails. To quote Wendy “Nature is my anti-depressant.”

Last Week –

Monday – Another cold morning but with possible snow on the way tomorrow, I knew I needed to get in a run at lunch. The sun was a welcome surprise, the wind not so much. I decided to repeat the route from last week – drive to park n ride, run to the HS track, run around the track and then run back to my car.

Thanks to Cari for the recommendation – my favorite Peleton run yet.

And after work, I checked out a local trail before it got dark. A perfect way to end the day.

HollyHock Hollow Sanctuary. If you look closely you can see the mon in the pic on the right

Also I got my swag for Saturday’s Virtual 15K. I wish I was running the real race but even without the pandemic, none are scheduled anymore in NY.

a hoodie, chocolate and more…

Tuesday – A busy work day but I did get in a 45 min bike ride during lunch.

it started to snow just as I was finishing up

After work, I had a needed hair appt (2 weeks later than usual.) And I drove to it in a snowstorm (The things we women do…)

Wednesday – I woke up to snow (about 5-6 inches.)

first world problems – have to shovel out the hot tub

so I waited until lunch to go out for a run. I wore my trail shoes and navigated slowly the streets in my neighborhood. No problem (except for my driveway which wasn’t plowed yet.)

half of the run was done to Wicked music 🙂

After work, I met my friend for our usual outside walk.

Thursday – Today I took the day off. (Just needing to use up some vacation time). I was able to do grocery shopping, get my nails done and go for a morning run. I ran in the streets of town since obviously the trails were still snow-covered.

the sun may have been shining but the wind made it feel sooo cold

and then an afternoon hike. You know that I am obsessed with water falls so I chose Barbersville Falls. There was quite a few inches of snow on the Waterfalls trail. Underneath the snow was ice. Going down wasn’t as scary as trying to go back up (Next time, do not do this without spikes!!) Eek! Then I hiked the Ridge Trail. Much longer loop as not as scary.

The waterfalls were beautiful and the trails so peaceful… but slippery

I ended the day with a walk with friends.

Friday – Rest day from running. I almost considered going for a walk.

Nahh. I’m not that crazy. Maybe one in a mall after work.

Instead I took a 45 minute bike ride at lunch.

30 min of Backstreet Boys but only had time for 15 min of Cher. Enjoyed both.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. I had planned to do my virtual Hot Chocolate 15k with Sherry and virtually with Deirdre and Kim. But first, 2.7 miles (because I never got in 12 miles last Saturday.) It was extremely cold again but not as windy as last time. And there was sun!! I started at 10 am and Sherry met me at 10:30. We had to return to the Crossings due to our recent snowfall and ran around the nearby neighborhoods. It was sub zero with the wind chill but not as bad as I thought and it was nice to have company.

Virtual 15k done! (Deidre was in Fla.)

I guess my painful feet are ready for another half marathon.

After my hot chocolate in the hot tub, I spent some time on my knitting. Just too cold to venture outside again.

I got tired of the socks so started a cowl. It is actually a darker purple.

Sunday – Another COLD day. I started with a 40 min. ride on George.

actually did the warm up after the ride lol

And then off to the trails in search of peace and quiet and a waterfall. Sanders Preserve surprisingly was one of my favorite trails so far. Miles of trails on packed snow, not slippery at all and so peaceful. There was a waterfall but I couldn’t figure out how to get down to it. I am going back!

without any wind, it felt so much better than yesterday – a beautiful day on the trails

I’m amazed at how much my succulents are loving winter. This is the first winter of my obsession. I love plants but once I bought one succulent, I got addicted (and none have died 🙂 )

check out all the icicles outside the window!

This Coming Week –

Monday – run, walk
Tuesday – rest day, bike, walk with friends
Wednesday – run, walk with BFF
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – LONG RUN, walk
Sunday – rest day, bike, walk/hike

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Doing any virtual races? Are you venturing outdoors in the sub zero temps? Any knitters out there? How about succulents? Please share.

January 29, 2021 by Darlene

Five Runfessions for January 2021

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

and the first one for 2021!!

1. I runfess…

I jumped on the FREE two month trial of Peleton. I have done some of the runs and the cycling classes.

an Elvis ride

Everyone seems to LOVE it.

Maybe I expected too much. I find it hard to search for classes. I want to be able to search by the type of music! I also want to listen to the music and not have it overshadowed by the instructor’s voice. I know they are trying to motivate you but …. And I also find the running classes too short. Most are 20 or 30 minutes (a few are 45 min.) I usually run 3 miles. So I have to start running early and then switch or run after to get my miles done. Lastly, I wish that I could download the class onto my phone so I could run outside without using up all my data and my battery life. (I do not have unlimited.) I’m pretty sure it’s my problem because my phone connects to my Apple watch which I use for distance and recording my steps (for Virgin Pulse $$). I think I just have to put both on airplane mode (haven’t had the time to experiment.)

Have you signed up for Peleton? Do you love it? Or do you have any complaints about it?

2. I runfess…

I am stubbornly continuing to run 10 miles every weekend. I admit. It is hard for me to run that many miles alone. With the weather and COVID-19, the size of my running crew has shrunk. I think this winter is going to be challenging.

not fun!!

Do you do your long runs solo or do you prefer to have company?

3.I runfess…

I still haven’t decided on my next half marathon. I reserved my hotel rooms, booked my flights, rented a car (and got time off from work) just in case I run this one:

Feb. 14, 2021

I am DEFERRING this Melbourne race until 2022:

Feb. 7, 2021

The Fort Lauderdale race would work out perfectly timing-wise. I have Lincoln’s birthday and Presidents’ Day off (Friday & Monday). I also have four friends who winter in Delray Beach (about 20 min away.)

But the virus and wearing masks…..

Anyone else running or have run any in-person races in Florida?

4. I runfess…

I had deferred last year’s April (re-scheduled to August) half marathon. Fortunately, our local racing organization (ARE) will be holding this race and a few others. We have until Feb. 1 to decide whether to run it in 2021 or defer again to a future year.

April 17, 2021

I so want to race that I signed up for this year. Reluctantly. It’s not on the original course but on the course that I ran on last November. (It will go back to the original course in 2022.)

2019 – downhill

2020 – hilly

Have you signed up for any in-person races yet? Do you plan to?

5.I runfess…

I signed up for three virtual races – a free 5k on January 1.

NYRR Virtual Resolution Run 5K

and a 15k on January 30.

Virtual Houston 15k

I didn’t plan to race either one but I will have company for both.

New Year’s Day virtual friends

One of my running friends who is in Florida will run the 15k with me virtually tomorrow as well Kim (and maybe some other bloggers.)

And then this one by March 15k:

a 5k – you get this medal and a gaiter. Who could resist this memory of 2021?? What to join me (virtually)??

Do you enjoy running virtual races with virtual running friends or do you run them alone?

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.

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

January 26, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Six Favorites From 2020

The Tuesday Topic this week is: Six Favorites from 2020

2020 was an interesting year, filled up ups and downs. Maybe more downs than ups but still it’s a great idea to focus on the positives.

So here are my Six Fitness-Related Favorites:

1.Favorite In-Person Race – ZOOMA Bermuda

I did run a few others and I almost picked the Polar Cap Run (dedicated to my friend who died in 2020) because I already gave this race, my BEST OF Award. But seriously, a race with ocean views, great swag and sharing it with some awesome people? No Brainer.

we may have been smiling because we didn’t know that the course was so hilly!!

post race antics 🙂

2.Favorite Virtual Race – Freihofer’s Run for Women

I have run this race for the past 13 years and it is my favorite race of the year. Unfortunately in 2020, it went virtual but I was lucky enough to have company (even though we ran it in four different locations.)

5k with Cari, Kim and Deb (in our purple outfits)

3.Favorite Running Route – Zim Smith Bike Path

It’s flat, scenic, long enough even for Marathon training and most importantly, we park at Leah’s Cakery so we can enjoy a delicious brunch post-run.

4.Favorite New Running Gear – Knock-Off Thera Gun

I think my hubby may use more than me, but it helped immensely when I strained my SI joint and with any other aches and pains, as well. And it wasn’t expensive. Check them out on Amazon.

addsfit MAX massage gun

5.Favorite Hike – Hadley Mountain

It was a challenging hike but worth it for the views of the Fall foliage. And it was my first Fire Tower hike. I was hooked and hope to climb more towers in 2021.

6.Favorite Binge-Worthy TV Series – Schitt’s Creek

I loved everything about this series and was hooked immediately. Of course, it was fitness-related.

I mean Alexis was a runner (and she had adorable running outfits).

Remember when she learned to ride a bike and then taught David?

Schitt's Creek: Alexis' Shadiest Burns, Ranked | ScreenRant

and David’s yoga experience…

Pop schitts creek GIF - Find on GIFER

and finally the big hike and Patrick’s proposal:

9 David & Patrick 'Schitt's Creek' Moments That Are Simply the Best (PHOTOS) - TV Insider

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

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! What are some of your favorites from 2020? Please share.

January 23, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.18.21-1.24.18: A Week of Celebration

The week started off with a day off to celebrate Martin Luther King Day

❤ this! I remember him saying it but it didn’t mean as much to me then as it does now.

and then in the the middle of the week, we celebrated a new US President being inaugurated.

What Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman Wore to the Biden-Harris Presidential Inauguration

this was even more exciting!

Hope this means good things for all of us.

A four-day work week is always a good thing.

And I also got my first dose of the COVID vaccine. Another reason to celebrate.

Last Week –

Monday – Woo Hoo, a day off from work. I started it with my longest and best Peleton ride.

45 minutes of Billy!!! No callouts, just some stories but mostly music!!

In the afternoon, I was able to take a long hike on this rest day from running. I continued my quest for easy trails in the winter but ones with waterfalls. I have to say that I am still rather nervous about hiking where there is ice and snow. But there’s no way around it sometimes (unless I just stay home). So I wore my Yaks, used my poles and walked very slowly. And I didn’t fall!! Woot! Woot!

it was very icy but going by myself, I could set my own pace and I enjoyed the beautiful views.

Tuesday – Back to work and back to running. The temps dropped and it was still cloudy. Not happy about that but I did squeeze in a run before my appointment to get my first COVID vaccine.

and it takes me a lot longer than 30 minutes to run 3 miles these days

The vaccine took no time at all. It was so well organized. I was in and out. I got the Pfizer vaccine so my second dose was scheduled for 21 days from today.

I felt fine so I went for a walk with a friend that evening (The arm was just a little sore.)

Wednesday – A rest day so on the bike before work. I got a late start so instead of a Peleton ride, I did work while on the bike. Then I took a short walk during a late lunch (after watching the Inauguration <3). And believe it or not, it was the first day that there was any sun in eons!!! Then all of a sudden, there was a snow squall and I looked like a snowman. Just as quickly as it started, it ended and it was sunny again.

lots of flags for Inauguration Day and a mobile Pet Spa at a neighbor’s?

and I met my BFF for a longer walk after work.

In the evening, we had a running group ZOOM. We have some snowbirds in the group and some not being able to do the weekend long runs. It was great seeing everyone all together.

Judy was also here for a little while earlier

Thursday – A busy work day so I had to run after work at Ualbany and then meet my friends for a walk. Both were cold ones. Brrr!

But first, all the bloggers celebrated Liz’s birthday.

thanks to Cari for the collage

It snowed during the morning and I was worried about the paths at UAlbany being slippery. Happy to report that they were all clear and salted.

loving the extra minutes of daylight

Afterward, I went to meet a friend for a walk. She told me I looked like Bernie.

she may have been right lol

Friday – Rest Day #3 was scheduled. Appropriately since I woke up feeling like crap. Headache, achy, tired. Not sure if it was a delayed reaction from the COVID vaccine (my friend had a bad one on day 8) or from lack of sleep and stress at work. A normal person would just rest. Instead I did a Peleton ride (live) during my late lunch. (You know my philosophy – You rest when you die.)

OMG. I forgot how much I loved this musical and it ended with my favorite song.

I was not cured but mentally I felt better and physically no worse.

And then after work, I finally dragged myself outside for a walk with friends. Continuing on my goal to go for a walk outdoors everyday. Someday, there may even be sunshine. Believe it or not, my headache went away. I felt energized and like a new woman. The first step out the door is the hardest. Glad I didn’t just give into my lethargy/sickness.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. The coldest temps yet and it was sooo windy. All my friends decided to skip the run. Boy, was I tempted to as well and join the other bloggers for a indoor bike ride ZOOM. But I drove to The Crossings and got it done. It wasn’t easy. It wasn’t pretty.

there was sunshine but the wind overshadowed it. Listened to some Peleton Rock but the cold was draining my iPhone battery.

After a soak in the hot tub and a hot shower, we headed up north for a Belated Anniversary dinner! We walked around our marina and then had a cozy dinner in a heated igloo.

Sunday – Still cold but not as windy. Started my rest day with a 45 minute Peleton ride.

out of nowhere a ladybug landed on me!! So strange. A sign??

Then I set out for a longish hike hoping to explore a new place, a waterfall and not to fall on the ice!! Well there was NO ice and several beautiful waterfalls on this crisp sunny day. Loved this 3.5 mile out and back hike!! So many hidden gems in my area to explore. What took me so long to find them?

Burden Pond Preserve

This Coming Week –

Monday – run, walk
Tuesday – rest day, bike, walk, hair appt
Wednesday – run, walk
Thursday – Day Off, run, hike, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – LONG RUN, walk
Sunday – rest day, bike, walk/hike

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Have the winter temps or snow hit? Have you signed up for any races? Virtual or In-Person? Please share.

January 22, 2021 by Darlene

Fit Friday Five: Winter Lovings

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 at the bottom of this post.

I just realized that I haven’t posted about this topic since Fall.

So that’s my topic for today.

Here are 5 things that I am loving this Winter:

my Adidas Beanie.

It is warm and comfortable. And most importantly, it stays down over my ears. (and I stumbled upon it at Marshalls!!)

2. My Hot Tub

Even if the temps are frigid, after a long run, it is an amazing reward. I keep it at 104 degrees. It gets you warmed up and it’s also great for sore muscles. (For added joy, afterward, you need a heavy terry cloth robe, a cup of Starbucks or hot cocoa and a indoor fireplace lol).

3. my new Nordic Track Stationary Bike

On days when I don’t have time to get outside to run or it’s too snowy or icy to do so, this bike has been my savior. In just a few minutes, I am sweating. It connects to my phone or iPad so I can listen to music, podcasts or participate in online workouts. (Bought for cheap on FB Market Place!!)

It also lets me be part of the Blogger Biker Chicks ZOOM!

4. my old Skirt Sports Toasty Cheeks Skirt

I wear it over tights. It keeps my butt nice and “toasty” warm. I’ve had it for years and it still looks brand new (since I reserve it for very cold windy days.)

5. the NYCRuns Gaiter

It keeps my face warm (and protected from COVID) and actually stays up when I run. I have some other free cotton ones but they just don’t cut it. This one has Spandex in it. And it was swag from the NYCRuns in person race that I ran back in December. Win. Win.

It is very similar to the ones made by Skida which work well too.

Happy Running! What are you loving this winter? Please share.

runner-sig

January 19, 2021 by Darlene

TT: What I learned about myself during the Pandemic

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

The Topic this week is: What did you learn about yourself during the pandemic?

First, things I learned that surprised me:

I could let people see me without makeup.
I could spend half the day in pajamas.
I could wear the same outfit two days in a row.
I could binge watch a Netflix series.
I did not hate working from home.
I cooked more often.

Yup, I admit it. I’m pretty vain. I used to wear lipstick even when I went out for a run. I plan my outfits and love to dress up. I rarely sit in front in of the TV yet alone watch 6 seasons of a show. I enjoy being on the go and loved the social interaction at a job. So the option of working in a room at home everyday was something I NEVER considered.

Secondly, things I learned that did not surprise me:

I needed to color my hair and have my nails done.
I missed shopping and the need to buy new clothes (and shoes.)
I MISSED RACES!
I missed going to the movies, shows, concerts and other events.
I missed seeing my friends on a regular basis.
I missed work travel and running in different places.
I missed my Friday night mah jongg games.
I was disciplined (or stubborn) enough to run all the miles even without races to train for.
Even with more free time, I did not work out or cross-train.
Running virtual races were just fun runs for me.
I was not nervous running an in-person race.
I enjoyed hiking as much as or maybe more than running.
I’m not ready to retire.

Hadley Fire Tower

2020 = 1017 Miles
Jan – 83.8 miles
Feb – 76.7 miles
Mar – 91 miles
Apr – 89 miles
May – 86.5 miles
Jun – 82 miles
Jul – 78 miles
Aug – 89 miles
Sept – 75 miles
Oct – 93 miles
Nov – 87 miles
Dec – 86 miles

As you can see above, I ran pretty consistently throughout the year. I usually try for 84 each month but some months are more and some are less. In fact, I ran MORE miles than the years that I was racing every weekend even in 2019 when I was training for my first marathon.

I love to be active so no surprise that when I was stuck at home everyday, I explored a new fitness option – Hiking saved my sanity, for sure.

So now it’s 2021 and the Pandemic is not over yet….

However I’m better prepared this year for the changes and inconveniences it brings.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! What did you learn about yourself during the Pandemic? Please share.

January 17, 2021 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 1.11.21-1.17.21: Counting Down

Counting down until my THREE day weekend.

Counting down until Biden is sworn in as President.

Counting down until I get my COVID vaccines. (I became eligible this week and after a zillion failed attempts, I got an appt.)

Counting down until I can run an in-person race.

Some years, it’s hard to enjoy the present and you have to look ahead to better times.

That being said, so far, this year I have kept up my fitness goals – running easy, running long, walking, hiking, indoor biking (two activities each day.)

Last Week –

Monday – Another cold gray morning. Postponed going outside until lunchtime. The sun never came out but it was at least a little warmer. I decided to try something new for my run. I drove to the park n ride, ran a mile to the high school, ran a mile around the track and then back to my car. A really nice diversion. The track was empty, clear of ice/snow and easy on the feet. Maybe next time, I’ll even do some speed work.

It was only in the high 20s and I was cold for awhile but in the end, it was the right choice of clothing.

With a few more minutes each day of light, I was able to explore a local trail after work.

Van Dyke Preserve at dusk

Tuesday – Before work I rode George since it was a rest day.

I decided to try and focus on one nugget said by each trainer (makes the chatter more meaningful) – today was (don’t quote me) -“The way you see yourself impacts what you can do.”

During my lunch break, I went for a short walk. Just out my back door and onto the waterline.

another very dreary cloudy day…at least there was no wind so it felt warmer than yesterday (even walking).

After work, I got in my 2nd daily (and longer) walk with a friend around our outdoor mall.

we always pass this giant Christmas ornament and I finally took a selfie in it.

I spent most of the evening trying to make an appt for my COVID-19 vaccine. At the current time, it was only offered through April 16 at UAlbany and all the appts were filled or the website kept crashing….grrr!!!

Wednesday – After a sleepless and frustrated night, I decided to get out earlier for my walk today.

saw the sunrise but still had to be at my desk by 8 am so a short walk in the ‘hood..

And back to running. I had more time so I drove to do my lunch run. I wish I time for a more scenic location but they are either icy or too far. I settled for the roads near the rail trail as I did last week.

still cloudy but a little warmer and dry so can’t complain

After work, I got in a second but longer walk with my BFF. But the good news is that I decided to check out the vaccine appts one more time (after checking them ALL day) and miraculously, I found an open slot for Jan. 19!! Super ecstatic.

still holiday decorations at the mall…like the reflection of the outdoor tree indoors

Thursday –I debated whether to take a rest day or run. It always depends on which day of the weekend my long run is and that depends on the weather. I decided to walk at lunch and drive to the trails in our town park. I was wondering if they we would be icy. Yes in most places!!

I only did one loop. Next time, I’ll wear my Yaks and do the other.

and then went for a run after work at UAlbany before my walk.

finally the paths were clear here and that tent in the top left is where the COVID vaccines will be given.

I met with friends again for a long walk after work (my 3rd night in a row at the same locale.)

decorations will soon be taken down here so I’m enjoying/sharing them.

Friday – With Saturday’s weather looking iffy and today being dry, my rest day turned in a run day. Rain was forecast for the afternoon so I needed to get out at lunch (or before work but that rarely happens.). To save time, I ran in the neighborhood. And I think I saw a glimmer of sun through my window in the morning but by the time I got out to run, it was gray and gloomy. I didn’t do a Peleton run because it used up all my data last month. Instead, I listened to a podcast (that I had already downloaded.)

the poor snowman on the top lost his nose since yesterday

The rain held off until evening so there was time for a quick hike before dinner. And then my walking companion called me and insisted that we do another outdoor mall walk. (I may have created a monster lol).

Saturday – Long Run Saturday postponed due to rain/snow. Instead, I started the day with a virtual bike ride (via ZOOM) with some other bloggers. So fun.

40 min ride. my longest so far. went by so quickly when you are chatting

After housework and errands, I realized that I hadn’t taken my daily walk. It had stopped raining so I decided to seek out another waterfall trails. I though that I might encounter ice and snow. Nope. Two miles of MUD!!! Still worth it.

It was also our Anniversary (22 years) so I wanted to do something special. A hard decision since it is the Pandemic and the weather was lousy. We I decided on outdoor dining… in an heated private igloo on Lake George. Unfortunately, the igloos were all booked but we have reservations for NEXT Saturday.

doesn’t that look cool?

So instead, take-out at home. And actually, if I run next Saturday am instead of on Sunday am, it will work out better to celebrate (with drinks) on a Saturday night. (Fingers crossed for good running weather next Sat. am.)

Sunday – Re-Scheduled Long Run Day. After four weeks running at the Crossings, I wanted to vary the location to the Nisky Bike Path. Rumors had it that the path was clear, at least in one direction but yesterday’s weather might have changed that so back again to The Crossing it was. I was so lucky to have Karen for a few miles, then Chris and Sherry. It was harder than normal. I rewarded myself with a shopping spee at Trader Joe’s

still cloudy and windy but no ice. My FEET hurt more than normal , though. ugh!

This Coming Week –

Monday – DAY OFF -bike, walk/hike
Tuesday – run, walk, COVID-19 vaccine
Wednesday – rest day, walk, Sole Sisters ZOOM
Thursday – run, walk with friends
Friday – rest day, bike, walk
Saturday – LONG RUN, walk
Sunday – rest day, bike, walk/hike

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Have the winter temps or snow hit? Have you signed up for any races? Virtual or In-Person? Please share.

January 15, 2021 by Darlene

Fit Friday Five: The Best of 2020

It’s time for a brand-new Friday Five, and we are thrilled to bring you this Fit Five Friday link-up starting TODAY!!

We’ve got FIVE incredible co-hosts, and we are ready to link up every Friday to share YOUR weekly fitness favorites!

Join hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida every Friday for Fit Five Friday!

Here are the guidelines:

Enter the link-up at the bottom of this post.
Your link should center around some kind of fitness (exercise, wellness, mental health, nutrition… the possibilities are endless!)
Please link back to your hosts! It’s the right thing to do!
Share the link-up love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!
Feel free to share about Fit Five Friday on your social media! Tag #FitFiveFriday to get the word out!

And let’s go!

My Topic this week, as I and other bloggers have done in past years, is the Best of 2020.

FX Graphix

I seriously considered skipping this post.

But then again, with fewer races, it was easier to come up with my awards lol.

So here it goes:

1. Best Race(s) in 2020:

So what determines a “best” race? Fastest? Best Food? Most scenic course? Most organized? Best swag?

Any or all of the above.

Not many to choose from in 2020.

My vote for the Best In-Person was:

ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon

It was my first ZOOMA race. I loved everything about it- the beautiful views on the course, the organization, post race food, the swag and the spending the weekend with great people.

and the Best Virtual was:

Smuttynose Half Marathon

Unfortunately, this race went virtual and it was supposed to be a race-cation with nine of my running friends. We decided to go to NH anyway and run the race on the original course. We ran together and had a great time.

2. Best Run(s) in 2020:

My runs are not usually very good or very exciting. And since I worked from home for most of year, there were no runs in scenic places around NYS.

But I’d say that my best ones were done with my local running friends. We call our group the “Sole Sisters.” Except for the first few months at the beginning of the pandemic, I’ve run (at a safe distance) with them every weekend. Without their support, I could never have run at least ten miles for all my long runs. Soooo grateful to them.

3. Best New Piece(s) of Running Gear in 2020:

I have bought several pairs of running shoes. In 2020, I switched from Mizunos to Topos.

I now own 3 pairs of Magniflys

I’ve tried almost all brands but with foot problems (particularly a painful bunion and neuroma), I fell in love with Topos’ wide toe box.

I have, of course, bought the usual Skirt Sports running skirts. The only new item would be Lioness Capris.

I have 3 pairs of these.

I liked that short skirt had capris with pockets that cover things and that they are longer than most capris so perfect for fall and spring running and hiking.

4. Most Inspirational Runner(s) in 2020:

First: Chris Nikic

Athlete with Down syndrome makes history in Ironman triathlon - CNN Video