November 13, 2020 by Darlene

Racing During COVID-19 Times

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.

I haven’t run a race since February 2020.

smiling even in the pouring cold rain

Like most of you, I have hesitated to race even once real (in-person) races were offered.

But enough is enough.

I am running a race on November 15.

My Friday Five topic this week is Why You Should (or can) Run a Real (In-Person) Race Now

Precautions are in place.

Staggered starts. Masks wearing when not racing. No water stops. No spectators. Altered post-race food options. Wide running routes.

STEVE SCHALLENKAMP: Region is returning to a new normal in running | Sports | dailyfreeman.com

Race Directors have put a lot of thought into making sure that EVERYONE is safe. They do want to continue offering races and they do not want anyone getting sick.

2. Staying Connected with the Running Community.

Most runners are either running alone or with a small group of friends.

Runners who race are social. We need our peeps.

I miss seeing those runners that I know but only see at races. I have made friends with runners that I have met at races.

I also miss that support that you only get from other runners before and after a race.

3. Supporting the Racing Organizations.

Yes, it is a business like any other. They need money to stay in business.

You can support them by signing up for virtual races but I am sure they do not make nearly as much income that way.

unfortunately for this race, my only choice was to run it “virtually”

Once the pandemic is over, we will want these organizations in business so we have a nice selection of races to choose from (and at affordable prices).

4. Paying for and Earning Swag.

If you like swag, you do not have to run an in-person race. You can pay the $$ and run it virtually.

But it is costly. I just paid $90 for a race that went virtual (with no refund or referral option.)

sure, we had fun but no one was racing it.

If I am not running on that particular course (and I just choose an easier one), I do not feel that I deserve that swag. I do not even consider it a “race”. It is just a run with swag that you paid $$ for.

yes it would have been a more difficult race in NYC

5. Training and Running Mojo.

Does anyone really follow a training plan if they are not going to be running a “real” race???

Maybe loosely because we are runners and do not want to lose our endurance.

It is very difficult to stay motivated.

I am a runner that gets her mojo from racing. Not having raced since Feb, has me still running but very casually and very slowly.

just going through the motions while my friends are walking

As I have often said, my opinions are my own. I am not being critical of those who disagree. Feel free to comment but not about personal issues, politics or beliefs.

I have a pregnant daughter-in-law, friend with cancer, 95 year-old mother-in-law. I am not being reckless around them IMO because I choose to run an in-person race.

This is about running not COVID.

Happy Running! Have you run a real race yet? Are you planning to? Why or Why not? Please share.

November 10, 2020 by Darlene

My Favorite Brands

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

The Topic for today is: What are some of your favorite running brands? (Yes, I’m a week early)

Skirts, Capris, Tights

SKIRT SPORTS – comfortable, stylish but most importantly for the pockets. In fact, that’s all I own.

Tops

For tanks, it’s also SKIRT SPORTS.

For short sleeve and long sleeve, I mostly wear race shirts and only women’s cut ones that fit.

Socks

BALEGA for short runs

and KARRAMOR for long runs. They are Japanese and I haven’t been able to find in this country (luckily I have 2 pairs that I got on sale at EMS).

KARRIMOR DUO RUNNING ANKLE SOCKS UK 4-8 BREATHABLE WHITE PINK

Compression

I prefer calf sleeves and LEGEND is my preferred brand. They are supportive but not too tight.

Sunglasses

I’m one of those runners that almost always wears them. GOODRS are my absolute favorite – so light and so comfy. They come in so many cool colors with cute names.

Image result for goodr

Watch

GARMIN hands down though I only wear one for racing. Otherwise I wear my Apple Watch.

I still love my old 205 but now I do use the 230.

Garmin Forerunner 230

Sports Bra

Not that I need one but I wear HANDFUL because they are light, non-chafing and have pads (that you could take out.)

Shoes

Well, that’s a difficult one…. it changes with each injury. Right now it’s TOPOS. They are light, supportive, have a wide toe box and are zero-drop.

Topo Magnifly

Hats

Baseball cap brand that I like is BROOKS. I hate visors, headbands, etc. These caps are women’s fit, adjustable and lightweight.

Run Happy Sherpa Hat

And Beanies, I like the ones that I have gotten from races. I like to have a cuff so that it stays down.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! What are some of your favorite brands? Do you wear any of mine? Please share.

November 8, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 11.2.20-11.8.20: Hello Darkness, My Old Friend

Yup, we turned our clocks back.

So now I need to run or walk before work or during the day or after work at UAlbany (where there are lights) or in the mall.

Wish me luck!

Last Week –

Monday – Well, it was light but snowing, COLD and insanely windy. Nope, not doing it this morning. I decided to wait until after work when I noticed that sunset was 4:46 pm and I only work until 4 pm.

Guess what? I got an email at 3:59 and never got out until 4:30. So off to UAlbany I went.

first run in darkness since March. The worst part was that I got warm and took off my new RBG buff and LOST IT!!! 😦

Tuesday – Again, it was light but raining when I got up. No run! It did clear up for a lunch time walk. But it was still COLD (30s) and WINDY!!

on the local park trails

Glad that I voted early as I nervously awaited the results all day. I had a hair appt (yes, I feel safe getting them & I just can’t let myself go. No judgment here.) so at least that took my mind off the election.

I even stopped at Trader Joe’s on the way home.

Wednesday – I had to work until 7:30 pm so I started work later. That gave me the opportunity to run early and with a friend (even after a sleepless night if you know what I mean.)

We decided to meet at the Crossings (so she could go to Trader Joe’s first). It was great to have company on the run.

started out cold and windy but quickly warmed up…lots of walking and conversation. All good.

I still had time left before work so I drove a nearby trail – Ann Lee Pond.

very flat looped trail but sometimes you need boring lol

And my MIL came home from the hospital (not pneumonia, not UTI, just a stomach bug!?)

Thursday – Today I took the day off. Just because.

I started it with trail walk with a friend (before she had to go to work). We went to Five Rivers since she had never been and it was close by. We decided that we need to do this more often. It was absolutely beautiful.

It just took the stress away…

After the hike I decided to drive to VT and visit another new Fire Tower – Mt Olga. It was a long drive and I hoped that it would be worth it. Once I entered VT, there was snow on the ground. D’uh. I wondered if I was crazy to try and climb a mountain in the snow. As it turned out, the trail was dry. Phew. And it was lovely. I met a family from NJ and the views were amazing.

about a mile each way to the top

Since I had driven all that way, I decided to stop in Wilmington on the way home. It was a cute little town (I bought some liquor since it is cheaper there) and had ice cream (of course). Before I left I discovered a trail system and took a short walk.

I’d love to more exploring if I come back this way

I raced home at this point because I had plans to meet my BFF for a walk.

So I did skip my planned run but 10 miles on my legs for the day made up for it, I think.

Friday – My usual rest day before a long run day. The weather was soooo nice (70 degrees!!) that I had to take advantage. I did a short run on the water line at lunch.

yes, skirt weather in November…the run was slow and hard due to tired legs, lots of leaves, sticks and pine cones on the trail (a hidden message in one of the pictures)

And then after work, due to darkness, we moved our walk to circles around an outside mall.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. At least it was warmer than last weekend. It was my taper run. Half Marathon next Sunday!! I decided to go early at the Corning Bike Path and run 4 and then was joined for 3 more with friends. I finished out the last 3 solo and ended the run with a total of 10 miles. Afterward, we got take-out and went to one the runners’ house to eat and chat.

that shirt and gloves came off pretty quick…what a beautiful day

Afterward I had to rush back out because I had volunteered for the STEM 5k walk (this year not a race due to COVID). It was on the rail trail starting in Albany.

ended the walk shirts, medals and CAKE!

Sunday – It’s Hiking Sunday. Who knows how many more nice hiking days there will be so I took another drive. This time to Taconic State Park.

Another beautiful day and one of my running friends decided to join me.

First we visited Bash Bish Falls. (They are located on the Mass-NYS border.) They were so beautiful but a very short easy hike.

the 3rd 70 degree sunny day in a row…perfection!!

After the visiting the falls, we explored a few more trails in the park…so many there. We decided that we need to return.

lots of history and scenery

I was so high on nature that I walked on a local trail until it got dark.

This Coming Week –

Monday – run
Tuesday – run
Wednesday – HOLIDAY – Day off – rest day, hike
Thursday – run, work late (4:30 pm -12:30 am)
Friday – morning off, rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – rest day, walk
Sunday – Upstate Classic Half Marathon!!

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? How are you embracing Fall? What has your weather been like? Are you recovering from the election stress? Please share.

November 6, 2020 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for November

It’s that time of the month…

Only The Best Grandmas Go Running Aqua T-Shirt Front

ETA: 5-25-21

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

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that, in case you don’t know yet, I’m going to be a grandma in May. We’re very excited. It is a surprise since my daughter-in-law was told that she most likely couldn’t get pregnant and they have been trying for awhile.

And it’s a BOY so I guess I can start quilting/knitting and shopping.

may have to buy this!!

Any running grandmas out there??

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have a new challenge. It’s actually one that I thought of when the pandemic started but now it’s a real one:

Before it was announced, I had already visited 17 out of 20. The 3 left were just not nearby. And I just finished!!!

#20

Are you participating in any challenges?

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I also participated in the RGB Challenge.

It was only 78 miles between Sept 20, 2020 and ~~Nov. 3 2020~~Feb. 1, 2021. Since I finished in a few weeks, I continued logging my running and walking miles. My goal was to see how many miles I could accumulate and maybe finish in the top 20 out of over 8,000. (Just call me an Overachiever). And I did pretty well. I decided to stop posting on Nov. 2.

17th out of 8078.

Did anyone else Run for Ruth?

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you I said that I was over virtual races. And I meant PAYING for them There are quite a few FREE NYRR races. And so I did sign up for them (2 in Oct, 3 in Nov, 1 in Dec).

Most are 5ks (and I do get a medal if I do 3 out 5 and record them on Strava).

Dash to the Finish 5k is done!

This is the only longer one.

between Nov 30 & Dec 6.

Any more virtual races on your schedule? Free or for money? Anyone want to join me on the Free NYRR races?

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I miss NYC big time. I used to go there several times a month for work

Dec 2019

and several times a year with friends…

Oct 2019

and then there were the races…

Jan 2020

So on a whim, I registered for a NYC race on Dec 6. Most likely it won’t be safe to go…but a girl can dream.

**6. And I forgot to announce here that I am now (in addition to Skirt Sports), a ZOOMA Ambassador.

I am very excited because I LOVED my ZOOMA Bermuda experience. I hope to participate in ZOOMA Cape Cod next fall.

Any ZOOMA ambassadors out there? Anyone planning on any ZOOMA races?

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!

November 3, 2020 by Darlene

Four Somethings for September/October

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

I just realized that the last time I posted on this topic was August. I have “pandemic brain.”

1. Something Loved.

Climbing Fire Towers.

Thanks to this pandemic, I have discovered a love of visiting the nature preserves. Then I started doing some hikes – ones with scenic views and even climbing to the top of a mountain.

But Fire Towers are my favorite. I never knew they existed. I never realized how many there are.

What I love about them is climbing to the top!!! It’s scary but thrilling at the same time.

: Hadley

: Dickinson Fire Tower

: Spruce Mt

: Beacon Mt

2. Something Read.

Home - Ellen Marie Wiseman

I picked this up in Target on a whim.

It takes place during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Fortunately it was not only about the flu and so not as depressing as I feared.

I won’t give too much of the plot away but it involves a 13-year-old German immigrant girl named Pia who after recovering from the flu, starts a frantic search for her twin baby brothers and a grief-stricken mother named Bernice who decides that it is her mission to rid the city of immigrant children.

It is a story of love, strength, courage, guilt, and grief.

I was amazed to read about how things have – and have not – changed since the last time there was a global pandemic.

Have you read this or Wiseman’s other novels?

3. Something Treasured.

Time away with my friends.

I hadn’t traveled since last February. I desperately needed to get away from my computer and my home office.

Luckily my running friends agreed that it was safe for us to spend 4 days in NH in a rented AirBnB. We ran our virtual race there, watched the sunrise each morning along the ocean, ate in outdoor restaurants, hiked and just enjoyed a “new normal” vacation.

: Smuttynose HM

Do you have activity that you treasured before or during this pandemic?

4. Something Ahead.

My next scheduled race-cation is in February in Florida.

Feb 14

That is is a big race. I am toying with deferring and changing to a smaller Florida half marathon in Melbourne.

Feb 7

I ran this one in 2019 (in the pouring rain.) My sister-in-law lives there.

Then again, it may not be safe to go to Florida at all. We’ll see……

Are you looking forward to anything (besides the end of the Pandemic)?

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

I’m also linking up here:

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

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

November 1, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.26.20-11.1.29: Last Week of Daylight

Yup, we turned our clocks back.

So I tried to enjoy my last week of after work fun. Not that the weather was too great but at least it wasn’t dark.

Last Week –

Monday – It started already…cold and damp in the morning and I didn’t feel like going outside …so I didn’t. Grrrrr.

It rained a bit but was still chilly so I stayed in at lunch too.

After work, I dragged myself to The Crossings. My ulterior motive was a trip to Trader Joe’s.

very sluggish but done between rain showers

I didn’t feel like waiting in line outside in the rain so I went to Target instead of Trader Joe’s.

Tuesday – Another cold dreary day. This morning I forced myself to go out for a walk (and I froze).

leaves leaves everywhere. my water line path got widened and with the leaves gone, I now have a path to it from my backyard.

I had a dentist appt so I had to go out again and decided at the spur of the moment to run on the rail trail after. I had signed up for a few virtual 5ks from NYRR since they were free. Unfortunately I was way overdressed for a run (and had to keep stopping to take off my sweatshirt, hat, gloves, etc.)

I realized that there is a lot of work to be done if I want to be in 5k racing shape again lol

Since I had gotten my run out of the way, I was free after work to do some other important things – getting my nails done, getting my flu shot, grocery shopping…

And then the rain came – no STEM walk AGAIN.

Wednesday – Cold, cloudy, rainy seemed to be the theme of the week. So again I was not motivated to go out and walk or run. Besides my toe has been bothering me…always something (now a hammertoe caused by the neuroma/bunion).

Tonight was our last group trail walk. Due to its closer location, I chose Five Rivers. It was raining when I got done with work but happily it stopped and we had a lovely hike.

Thursday – With rain (and possibly snow) in the forecast for today and tomorrow, I thought that I could squeeze in a dry run before work. Nope I got pretty wet but learned that I run better in the morning, I need to be cold when I start out to be comfortable when I finish and a wet run is better than no run.

and yes purple is my favorite color and I always match my clothes. I didn’t wear my new RBG buff because I forgot to take in yesterday’s mail. Darn and it matched lol

It was pouring during lunch so no walk and the same after work. I had to resort to walking around the mall this evening.

Friday – Ok not funny but I woke to snow this morning. I canceled my morning walk but did get out at lunch. Brrrr…didn’t dress warm enough.

pretty for December not October!!!

My Friday friends did want to walk on the rail trail so I dressed warmer and met them.

we are now trying to figure out where to walk next Friday since it will be too dark on the trail…

Saturday – Long Run Saturday. Quite the dilemma on when to run.. Today was a lot colder but sunnier. Some of the group preferred the warmer but cloudy Sunday. I chose Saturday. I like to get my long run done and then enjoy the weekend. So off I went to the Nisky Bike Path hoping that the others would be able to join me.

It was 21 degrees when I arrived and of course I have amnesia about how to dress for the winter. I went out for 5 solo miles and after a few minutes, I had to take off my windbreaker (I still had on a vest and long sleeved shirt). It was chilly but the sun warmed things up nicely. I was hoping for some company but my running companion had car trouble and the others left to go walking while I was waiting. Eventually, I took off running and hoped to catch two of the walkers. Well, they decided after a mile to run. (without their normal intervals). WTH? It took me 3 miles to catch them and then they were turning around. I ran another 1/2 mile and then I also headed back. I haven’t run solo like that in a long time…not my preference but it got done and I was ready for a delicious breakfast!

a decent run with achy feet (I am getting used to pain, I guess)

On the home front, my MIL is in the hospital with pneumonia (yes, she is stubborn and refuses to get her flu shot or a pneumonia shot). However, now they think it may just be a UTI. Either way, she is 95 but very healthy.

Sunday – So happy to have my long run done so I could relax and do some hiking. And it was chilly and windy so running yesterday was the right move.

Instead I decided to go on a few hikes. I started out early since rain was predicted. First I visited the Schoharie Creek Nature Preserve. I was surprised (since I did zero research) on how pretty it was.

I’m partial to waterfalls and there were several. The hike was a loop but I couldn’t figure it out so I did an out and back halfway and then did it the other way.

Since I was in the area, I decided to re-visit the Landis Arboretum. I had been there months ago but this time I hiked different trails.

just as I was done, it started to rain. Perfect timing. Still plan to go back in the spring and spend even more time there.

This Coming Week –

Monday – run
Tuesday – rest day, hair appt, STEM walk
Wednesday – run, morning off (work til 7:30 pm)
Thursday – DAY OFF, hike, run
Friday – rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – Long Run (8-10 miles), Final STEM walk event
Sunday – rest day, hiking

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any “real” or virtual races lately? Has your weather been lousy this past week too? Are you sad to see Daylight Savings Time arrive? You’ve gotten your flu shot, right? Please share.

October 30, 2020 by Darlene

Runfessions for October ’20

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 a series of 8 fall virtual 5k races. They were free and I thought that they would motivate to improve my pace and get more serious about running.

They did not. I grew more disinterested with each one and my pace got slower and I walked more.

Obviously virtual races are not races in my eyes.

2. I runfess…

I also signed up for a virtual half marathon because it was ZOOMA race, the ZOOMA director bought Skirt Sports (I have been, as you know, a Skirt Sports ambassador for many years) and there was great swag.

I am so over paying for virtual races. I feel bad for the racing companies and charities but no more!!

last one!!

3.I runfess…

I’m struggling with the fact several of my running friends have become walking friends (and my consistent partner is wintering in Florida). I know it’s selfish but I like company when I run. And although there are no races, I still want to keep up with my long runs.

I miss the races we used to run together.

4. I runfess…

I want this pandemic to end so I can travel again. I have a trip tentatively planned in February but Florida is a hot spot and even if there race happens, I wonder if my Florida friends will let me stay with them.

View of the beach in Fort Lauderdale from Florida's A1A. (Photo by Jared/flickr)

I know this is where I will want to be in Feb!!

5.I runfess…

I’m pretty nervous about my upcoming “real” half marathon. I forgot what it was like to race. I’m pretty sure that it will my slowest one ever. I don’t really care about that. I just hope it will be still fun and won’t taint my vision of racing.

STEVE SCHALLENKAMP: Region is returning to a new normal in running | Sports | dailyfreeman.com

the new normal – staggered starts, no water stops, no bag check – masks

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? So glad to get mine out in the open? Can you identify with any of them? Please share.

October 27, 2020 by Darlene

Paranoid vs Vigilant

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

The Topic for today is: Distinguishing Between Being Paranoid and Being Vigilant

I’ll relate this to running, of course.

First it was Covid19. Then this.

What I am saying is not meant to be critical of anyone. Everyone deals with dangerous situations differently.

So let’s start with COVID-19….

My hubby’s family acts as if COVID-19 doesn’t exist. No masks, Lots of hugging, Family indoor gatherings. etc. (and my MIL in 95 and my DIL pregnant!!)

If they were runners, they would high five other runners, congregate at start and finish lines of races and run side by side in groups.

I always wear a mask when I have to or think I should. I am always sensitive to others’ feelings and I want to protest them (and myself), of course.

But life goes on. I see my friends. I’ve gone to hairdressers, chiropractors, dentists, and even the mall. I run with my friends. They have been part of my weekly bubble since May.

I feel safe. I feel that I am vigilant. I do not put others at risk.

When is it being “paranoid?”

According to the dictionary, when you “feel that you’re being threatened in some way, … even though there’s no proof that it’s true.”

In other words, avoiding situations where you would never get COVID-19. Thinking that every cough is COVID-19.

Coronavirus Memes To Help You Get Through These Scary Times

Yes, the virus is dangerous. I’m not downplaying that. But the risks are not always as high some people believe. It is ok to go to a doctor or to the hair dresser. It is ok not to wear a mask when you are outdoors and not within 6 feet of others.

If a race is being scheduled, they have taken all the necessary precautions so that the runners are safe. You can run on bike paths and still be safe from the virus. Just wear a mask or pull up your buff when others get too close!!

Now onto the other dangerous situation. – being attacked while running alone.

A runner recently was attacked while running alone on a popular bike path – one that I run on fairly often (and alone sometimes).

on the Zim Smith bike path

I got many texts from non-running friends telling me to either NOT run there or to not run ALONE.

And yes, I will continue to do both.

Right after that attack, I went for a run on a nearby bike path and there was no one else there.

But my first thought was “Was I safe?”

That really annoyed me. Of course, I am. It could happen but I can’t not run alone for fear that an insane person will jump out of the bushes and attack me.

Yes, that is being paranoid.

Just wondering … Do you protect yourself when you run alone (knife, pepper spray, whistle, other?)

Personally I prefer to run with others or where others are around. But it’s not always possible.

safe in numbers

Again, I respect you all and this is not an attack on anyone who feels differently!!

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! Any thoughts? Do you feel vigilant or paranoid at times when running? Please share.

October 25, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 10.19.20-10.25.20: Foliage Running and Hiking Continue

Fewer daylight hours every day but still enjoying my hiking opportunities. Oh and my runs too.

The weather and colors have been amazing this fall. The only bright side of 2020.

Last Week –

Monday – I thought about taking a rest day. Especially after a half marathon and a tough hike over the weekend but looking at my schedule, it seemed like I may not have time for a run all week. My legs were feeling surprisingly fresh so I decided on an easy 5k. I drove to the rail trail but veered off in search of a NEW local park (with trails).

my last of 8 virtual 5ks and so excited to locate the new local trails.

I was glad to have gotten that run in since it was raining when I got done with work. I still decided to check out that new park.

a little muddy…plan to explore it even more on another drier day.

Tuesday – A very windy morning with rain on the way so I got in a quick morning walk with hopes of a run and/or walk after work.

lots of color (even with the dreary skies) and Halloween decorations

I went out for a second walk and it still wasn’t raining so I decided on a spur of the moment short run.

not planned so overdressed and no hat…would have run longer if I were prepared to run

I had to go into work in the afternoon and decided to keep on my running clothes (in hopes that no one would see me there) and I could finish my run nearby.

run done at Ualbany…yes those are Christmas balls on that tree

It was predicted to rain and again my STEM volunteer walk assignment was cancelled. So I headed to the Pine Hollow Arboretum to get in a few more steps and to check the damage from our recent storm.

many big trees down and still in awe of the foliage colors this fall

Wednesday – My third day in a row of running but rest days were definitely scheduled for Thursday and Friday. Not enough time to go anywhere but the neighborhood.

these blow up decorations seem to be big this year

After work, my running group’s trail walk was scheduled. It seems that our group is getting smaller but still glad to have the company and get it done before darkness. For that reason, I chose the Pine Bush Discovery Center trails.

still able to get the whole trail in before sunset…only a few more weeks left

Thursday – A planned day off from work so I could go hiking with a friend. Luckily I have had fantastic weather for all my hikes. Today was the same. My friend chose the Beacon Fire Tower for our hike. It was quite a difficult one and a long one (6 hours!!). There were 5 of us and we got almost lost several times and met quite a few interesting people. So fun!!

many overlooks with pretty views, the ruins of a casino, a fire tower, waterfalls…

Believe it or not, when I got home I felt energized and not tired so I met my BFF for a few hours of chatting and walking around an outdoor mall.

Friday – A rest day and busy work day with just a few walks.

tired of the neighborhood so headed to the hilly part of the water line

After work, I took my usual walk with former co-workers. It was longer than usual and then we hung out and snacked and chatted for hours…no dinner and late bed time. Oh well.

Saturday – Long Run Saturday w/the Sole Sisters. I had a real in-person race on my schedule in 3 weeks so I needed to run 11 miles. We had originally planned to run the Great Pumpkin Challenge 5k or 10k course, do the Sound Walk in Saratoga State Park and then have brunch. But it seemed to be too complicated especially with a fall event scheduled in town. So we switched to the Zim Smith Bike Path. I got there early and ran 2 miles solo, then 5.5 miles with Heidi and then 3.5 again solo while Judy, Jan, Chris and Jen did their own thing. We all gathered for brunch. The weather was crazy. Warm and humid at first and then very cold and windy by the time we finished. Our outdoor brunch days may have ended 😦

sorry about the blurry pic

I wanted to stop on my way home to vote but the lines were crazy long.

Instead I did laundry, cooked and binge watched this:

Emily In Paris Season 2: Everything You Should Know!!

watched all 10 episodes – LOVED it!!!!!!!!! (it’s by the creator of SITC which I was obsessed with, as well)

Sunday – I usually plan a hike for Sunday but my college friends wanted to ZOOM and it was scheduled for the morning.

I got up early to get on line to vote. It was 35 degrees but I dressed warmly and listened to a few podcasts. I got done just in time and was super happy to have gotten it done early.

The ZOOM was fun. It is always a treat chatting with them.

friends since our junior year of college in Nice, France (one more joined later too)

After the ZOOM, I had decided on a trip to two preserves (Strawberry Fields and Mosher Marsh) that were not too difficult and too far to do after work.

Neither one was very interesting due to the fact that they were flat loops and almost all the leaves had fallen from the trees. But it was peaceful being alone in the woods and good exercise.

the best part was the road leading to the preserve was lined with signs with the words of John Lennon’s song, Imagine

This Coming Week –

Monday – run
Tuesday – run, STEM walk
Wednesday – rest day
Thursday – run, trail walk
Friday – rest day, walk with friends
Saturday – Halloween Long Run (12 miles)
Sunday – rest day, hiking

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

Happy Running! How is your running going? How are you embracing Fall? Have you watched Emily in Paris? Have you voted yet? Please share.

October 23, 2020 by Darlene

So you want to hike?

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.

My Friday Five topic this week is What you need to be a successful hiker

But just like running, if you don’t have the right stuff, it could be a nightmare.

Shoes.

It depends on if you just walking a flat trail or climbing up a rocky one.

Until recently, I just wore my trail running shoes and they worked fine.

But waterproof boots are helpful when it is muddy or you have to cross water. They also offer more support on a rocky or steep trail.

2. Support.

Your legs are going up and down. Over rocks and trees. I usually just use I stick from a tree. It’s the perfect height and weight for me.

Hiking poles also work great. I bought a cheap pair and they broke the first hike. I did order a new pair.

3. Clothes.

Just like running, wear layers. You will be cold at first and then warm up.

Wear orange or pink during hunting season.

4. Connectivity.

Always bring your cell phone. Download the ALLTRAILS app so you can track your route. But know that you may not have cell service. So be prepared.

Download the trail map before you go!!!

5. Supplies.

Obviously you need water and a treat for the top of your climb (or end of your trek.) Also bring toilet paper, bug spray, sunscreen, extra pair of socks, windbreaker.