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Weekly Run Down for 5.4.20-5.10.20: My First Pandemic Birthday

May 15 can’t come soon enough…but will it be even longer?? Yes, it probably will…. It don’t see it ending for a long time. (NYS is now on pause until June 7!!)

Otherwise things are the same. All social activities still cancelled. Missing my friends!! But keeping in touch via ZOOM.

a hopeful message from my blogger friends (I’m sure you recognize most everyone)

Trying to get outdoors often so I do not go stir crazy in my Office (aka a room in my house). Always looking for new and interesting places to run or walk and practice social distancing. So far, I’ve been successful and haven’t run out of choices. I explored four new locations this week (up to 20 now).

Joined this group.  I’m a big ZOOMA fan after my Bermuda experience and it’s FREE!

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my yearly goal is 1000 miles…already met a lot of runners thru FB

I think I’m postponing my birthday this year.  Why not?  Everything else is on pause lol

Last Week –

  • Monday – Made the right call today.  It was sunny and calm when I got up.  The forecast was for increasing clouds and WIND. So I did my run before work for the first time since maybe last summer?

combined my neighborhood and the trails and was only a little late for work

That left me no pressure for two more walks.  Lunch time one nearby at the park

notice the mud and the change in outfit.. it was cold and windy

and after work for exploring a new trail. (#17)

I chose this one because it was not too far away. It was well marked but not as scenic as the others.

  • Tuesday – A chilly breezy yet sunny day. Walked with my friend at lunch

took her to Van Dyke preserve

and then drove to the rail trail and COMMITTED to a Un-canceled 5k.

match my outfit to the theme each week.

  • Wednesday – Believe it not, there was frost when I got up.  It did warm up in time for my lunch walk.  I decided to drive to the rail trail and then realized that it was farther than I thought and if I walked, I wouldn’t get much exercise so I ran.  Then I was too warm to run so I walked.

at least got in those flower pics..chose a road alongside the rail trail rather than on it

These days, if it’s not raining, I feel like running. Basically it is not overdoing it if you run slow and stop and take loads of pretty pictures.  So I drove to Washington Park and finished my lunch run and then of course, did a tulip progress check. The tulips,for the most part, were lacking (either no care due to the cancellation of the tulip fest or today’s hard frost). I did meet a running friend there so that was nice and got in some miles and quick pics.

  • Thursday – I went for a walk again during my lunch with my friend

on the fit trail in the local park

and I had planned to run today as well since it was warm and the sun was shining. Of course, after work, the sun was not shining as brightly and it got very windy. Still it was warm and I wanted to go to Trader Joe’s so I decided to run at the Crossings.

excited anytime it is skirt weather and I bought myself FLOWERS at TJs.

Also had a double ZOOM chat with my local running friends.  This has become a highlight of my week. Miss running with them. I piggybacked on Miranda‘s collage message idea and created my own:

We support each other & can’t wait to bRUNch together again ❤ my “sole sisters”

  • Friday – No lunch walk today due to a dentist appointment.  Yes, they are open once a week and have put so much in place to make you feel safe. (Now if only the nail salon and hairdresser would open…)

But even on a rest day I wanted to celebrate Ahmaud with 2.23 miles:

I was hoping that the rain would hold off so I could do it in a new location (#18). But with the rain predicted, I need to find a trail not too far away.  So I chose Papscanee Island Nature Preserve (about 20 min. away.) First I parked at the South entrance because the trail was a loop.

It was poorly marked if at all and the path along the Hudson was strewn with garbage

Then I drove to the North entrance because I wasn’t yet at 2.23 miles.

it was just an out and back, very flat and boring (good for running, though) so I turned around before the rain started.

  • Saturday – MY BIRTHDAY. In recent years, I was either in Florida celebrating with my tennis friends or home, running a race and celebrating with a visit to the Tulip Fest (with my mentee and her sons) and then out to dinner with the hubby.

Well, obviously during this pandemic year, none of the above could be happening. And the weather (as usual) did not cooperate.  I woke up to a dusting of snow on the ground (many nearby places got a few inches), feels like 20 degrees and insane winds. I even decided to postpone my long run until Sunday.

That made it convenient to take a ZOOM yoga class for runners in the morning.  This month’s focus was on the hips. Very hard but worth it.

So as I said above and to my hubby, I am postponing my birthday celebration to a nicer day when I can go up to the lake and eat outside (with others) in the sunshine.

But when you work from home all week, crappy weather or not, you want to escape (at least I do) so I dragged the hubby on a road trip.  South cuz I thought it may be a little warmer.

First was Artists Falls (about 45 min. south)…not sure if we found it because it was not labeled as such but it was near the Clove Inn so maybe.

I was freezing and it snowed on and off…the trails were a little too technical but the waterfall beautiful. (new trail #19)

On the way home, I spotted another waterfall which was even more impressive – near Tumbling Falls House (c1880).

no trail just a BnB

And when we got home, I needed to stop and get my FREE birthday Starbucks which just happened to be not far from another preserve that had a waterfalls.

even colder and more snow, I’ll return here when it is warmer – for more pics and videos, check out my IG posts @dsc59 (new trail #20)

So my coldest birthday ever… dinner out and cake with family and friends TBA

And thanks!! I do appreciate all those who remembered and called, sent me cards or online wishes. ❤ you all.

But I do have to add today one of my favorite memes:

Related image

  • Sunday – Often, it’s a Mother’s Day 5k but today it was a Mother’s Day long run. I decided to taper and only run 8 miles. It was a really nice running weather day – at least in the morning… I was still thawing out from Saturday so overdressed a bit. I drove to the Nisky bike path and everyone must have been visiting their moms because it was practically empty.

shed my jacket early on and could have worn a skirt…but did wear a shirt from a previous Mother’s Day 5k

My post long run treat was a FREE birthday pastry from Paneras and a latte. I enjoyed both while walking around the Pine Hollow Arboretum.

I may be obsessed with flowers this year

We did do a drive by to wish my MIL Happy Mother’s Day. I planned on doing some more gardening but it clouded up, got colder and windier….

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – rest day, walk
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – run (un-canceled 5k)
  • Thursday – rest day, tennis friends social distancing picnic, running friends ZOOM
  • Friday – run, mah jongg (SS virtual 5K)
  • Saturday –  rest day, walk
  • Sunday – STEEL RAIL VIRTUAL 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?  How is this virus affecting you and your family? Are you having  hard time finding safe places to run? Are you running in places or are in a running route rut? Please share.

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Four or Five Somethings for April

January 2018 Share Foru Somethings #ShareFourSomethings

Thanks to Laurie from Meditations in Motion, I discovered a link up started by blogger Heather Gerwing. The fourth Saturday of each month, Heather invites other bloggers to share their “Four Somethings”: Something Loved, Something Said, Something Learned, Something Read. If you are a blogger, you may post your Four Somethings too!

Oops I’m a little late… as usual.

1. Something Loved.

Normally I have to narrow it down because there are so many things.

But with no races, no trips, infrequent sunny days, online teaching from home, and self distancing from family and friends… it was not that easy

So what have I loved?

I guess I would have to say –  doing things that I never had time for before…..

  • Taking daily walks to new places. I’m up to 18 so far!!
  • Watching Netflix. I started with Un-Orthodox and just finished season 5 of:

Schitt's Creek' series finale: A delightful show ending at the ...

  • Cooking dinner EVERY night

turkey cutlets with apple cranberry chutney. I also make a mean chicken marsala.

  • Some knitting

but ran out of wool in the middle of the 2nd sock lol

  • ZOOM – I have been chatting with my friends even more often than before

I spent a year in France during COLLEGE with these folks. we laughed about things that happened then like it was yesterday.

What have you been loving during this pandemic?

2. Something Said.

One of friends posted this on my FB page:

I award you the DC medal for tenacity.

I knew what it meant but I wasn’t sure whether it was a compliment so I looked it up:

Tenacious is a mostly positive term. If someone calls you tenacious you’re probably the kind of person who never gives up and never stops trying – someone who does whatever is required to accomplish a goal. You may also be very stubborn.

Yup, I guess that IS me. I am a TAURUS!!

What adjective would your friends use to describe YOU?

3. Something Learned.

I can’t run fast if I am not in a race.

I really cannot…. I am competitive and if it doesn’t matter, it doesn’t matter.

The last time I wore a watch was Feb 15.

my 12 mmish 5k lol

Can you actually RACE “virtual” races?

4. Something Read.

Amazon.com: The Turn of the Key: the addictive new thriller from ...

I recently finished reading this book. It was chosen by one of my tennis friends for the book night of our recently cancelled vacation.

Unfortunately book club night was held this year via ZOOM

It’s basically about a nanny who is in prison awaiting trial for murder. Because she thinks that her current lawyer doesn’t believe her, she begins to write letters to another attorney, with the hope he will see she is innocent of the crime. She explains how she got the job as nanny to this wealthy family in Scotland and how everything went so horribly wrong. There is a lot of creepy stuff going on including all the technology that controls everything in the house. The ending had a few surprise, of course.

I actually didn’t love it.  The story was slow and the ending felt rushed. I thought The Woman in Cabin 10  (which Ware also wrote) was better. I do enjoy mysteries so I may read another one of her books.

Have you read this book? If so, what did you think? What is the most recent book that you have read? Who is your favorite mystery writer?

5. Something Ahead.

In the near future, there will be flowers. That is something I am sure of.

thousands in Washington Park – unfortunately not as beautiful as past years

I will be running in a skirt (most likely not racing until fall if at all in 2020.)

I can do the coffee and running but really would love to add friends

Anything else is too uncertain to mention (and too negative.)

What does your immediate future look like (in a positive way)?

It’s also 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! What are your somethings? Share at least ONE. 

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Hommage to Skirt Sports

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

My Topic today is: Skirt Sports

In case you haven’t heard, after 15 years, Skirt Sports is closing its doors.

Many of my friends have asked me why?  They wondered if it was because of the pandemic.  I’ll just post here part of what Nicole and Noelle wrote on their site:

This could be the end of the Skirt road…Unfortunately the current economic climate has dictated that we must consider closing our doors even as we continue to search for a new owner… 

Over the coming weeks, we need to sell all of our inventory…

Let us reassure you that no matter what happens in the coming months, our community will live on… 

This is very sad for many reasons:

  • This was a woman-owned and run company.
  • Their clothes were for ALL women of ALL ages and ALL sizes.
  • They did not just sell skirts but also tops, capris, tights, jackets, hats, dresses, bathing suits, etc.
  • They offered sales, discounts, used items to make their clothes affordable.
  • They created a community of women not just clothes.
  • They sponsored races and retreats.
  • They inspired women to be healthy and fit.

I could go on and on.

glad to have kept ALL my ambassador shirts

 

Five years ago, I was lucky to be selected as an Ambassador Captain.  It was then a small group which has grown immensely in subsequent years.

I personally benefited greatly from this company:

  • I wore cute clothes and always felt good in them when running (no matter how hard the race was.)

  • My clothes always felt comfortable in ALL seasons.

  • I have worn Skirt Sports not just for running but also for hiking, tennis and even going out.
  • Most important are those friends that I would never have met if it weren’t for Skirt Sports. ❤ ❤ ❤

So thank Nicole for what you have added to my life.  And Good Luck in your future endeavors.

I know you will be missed in my area:

Check out their last sale:

b5.1_Social_FinishLine_Split

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! Did you wear Skirt Sports? How do feel about their end of their reign? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 4.27.20-5.3.20: So over this social distancing thing

May 15 can’t come soon enough…but will it be even longer??

Otherwise things are the same. All social activities still cancelled. Missing my friends!! But keeping in touch via ZOOM.

Trying to get outdoors often so I do not go stir crazy in my Office (aka a room in my house). Always looking for new and interesting places to run or walk and practice social distancing.

So happy to read this – https://www.businessinsider.com/you-can-still-go-outside-while-quarantining-sheltering-in-place-2020-4 

I know many of you do not agree and are staying close to home and even staying indoors (having groceries delivered, eating only take-out, etc).   Everyone has different levels of comfort.

I am not sure I even enjoy Virtual Races but I keep signing up for them!?

trying to run one of these each week…

I’ve run the 5k and 10K and the 13.1 !!

some friends are trying to raise $$ for their NYCM charity and you get a really cool glass.(Runners and walkers complete any time between May 17th and May 31st.)

another free one

You will have between Saturday, May 23 at 6 a.m. and Sunday, May 31 at 11 p.m. to complete a 5K run by yourselves

It’s not too late.  You can still register the the Virtual FRW 5k until May 5 at  https://freihofersrun.com/virtual-5k/.  Use the code AMBSS5 and for $20, you will get:

  • 42nd annual virtual Freihofer’s Run for Women t-shirt (you can even choose between two different colors) & bib
  • A finisher’s certificate that can be printed out at home
  • Commemorative finishers’ medal
  • Coupons for Freihofer’s products
  • Automatic entry into Virtual 5k Sweepstakes with great prizes!

The t-shirts, medals and coupons will be mailed to participants the first week in June.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Another cold, windy rainy day. I was hoping to get out early for lunch but that didn’t happen (Darn work!) So instead of waiting until after work to do my run (in case it started raining harder), I squeezed one in at lunch instead of my walk.

yes, that’s a banana on the side of the road…it was raining but not too hard.

Then after work, it was still cold, windy and RAINING.  I planned to go for a walk but just couldn’t drag myself out the door. So unlike me 😦 Some days are like that.

  • Tuesday – Hooray for a dry day. Still chilly and breezy but as I mentioned last week, I have a friend who is now only working 3 days a week and she has agreed to DRIVE to my house to walk with me on her off days.  So nice to have adult conversation with someone other than my hubby. (Now that is a good friend.)

The sun was shining and now near 60 degrees after work so I was anxious to get out there. I decided to actually run a 10k at the Corning Bike Path.

It felt hard…well all my runs feel hard these days… but at least it was skirt weather. Wearing purple to summon up the courage to finish this run.

  • Wednesday – Ok, another dry day (before 3 days of predicted rain). I couldn’t wait to get outside for my lunch walk. I quickly drove to one of the closest preserves. (Where I go depends on my afternoon work schedule and how long I have for a break.) Although it was the same temps as yesterday, it was windy and cloudy so felt chilly.  Still enjoyed this time away from my desk immensely.

discovered some new flowers and that someone moved the painted rock

I didn’t really feel like running 3 days in a row but in the NE during April, if it’s not raining, you go for it. I decided to go to Washington Park to check the progress of the tulips. Guess what? I forgot my phone. Please believe me without photos that a 2.5 mile run took place and that the tulips are about a week away.

last week’s pic – same exact route but zero sun today and more wind.

  • Thursday – Yup, rain in the morning. Fingers crossed that it wouldn’t rain or rain hard all day long. Even on a rest day, I do like to go for a walk or two. It was pouring at lunchtime so walking was a no go. After work, it had stopped but was insanely windy. Still I needed to escape my house and continue on my quest to explore new places. The Stevens Farm Trail was different than the other preserves. It wasn’t really a well marked loop but it was very interesting. There were empty farm buildings dating back to the 1800’s, a K-9 training unit, a llama farm, a closed very old metal bridge and of course, a muddy trail along the creek.

Isn’t the llama cute? I wanted pet her but the owner said that she was a spitter so… NOPE!

Thursday nights are our weekly running group’s ZOOM night.  I’m not sure if we even talk about running lol.

  • Friday – Day 4 this week with clouds.  Rain was predicted for the afternoon so I was hoping for a lunch walk (although my work schedule would make this one a tight squeeze.) Never believe your weather app, it was pouring around lunch time.  Since it wasn’t that cold or windy, I decided to take that walk in my neighborhood.  Wrong choice.  Even with an umbrella and raincoat, I got soaked!!!

should have stayed home

It was still pouring when I finished work. Only water, right? So I grabbed my umbrella again and drove to Washington Park. The trails would be too muddy and I figured no one else would be there taking photos of the tulips in the rain. Well, I wasn’t alone (other crazy camera buffs like me) and eventually the rain did stop for a few minutes. Most of the tulips have not bloomed but I was treated to some early bloomers.  Definitely worth the trip.

  • Saturday – Long Run Saturday. I was tired and tempted to sleep in but I like to get my LSD out of the way and enjoy the weekend.

12 miles was on my plan as prep for my Steel Rail Virtual Half Marathon. It’s always a challenge on where to go.  I don’t like to run in the same places. And of course, most runners abstain from running on crowded paths. This doesn’t bother me so I drove to Zim Smith. I ran the opposite way from what I normally do just for a change.

and then I walked 1.1 miles so it would count as a half marathon

Of course on a nice day, there were walkers and bikers.  Everyone was cautious, polite and friendly. And for my post run I was hoping for a treat from Leah’s. They were closed so I had to settle for extra thick milkshake from Stewart’s.

I spent the rest of the afternoon pulling weeds until our our 3rd ZOOM Blogger Coffee Date. As with the others, it was so fun to connect with everyone.

  • Sunday – Another dry day.  Not as sunny as yesterday but warm. I was excited to take a long walk on another preserve or two, do my weekly grocery shopping and even get in some more yard work.

loved this place but sooo muddy

a short unmarked trail

Today my tennis friends and I would have been in Naples, Fla. We always get together one night during this trip to discuss a book that we have all read in advance.  So instead, we used ZOOM tonight for our book chat.  We all read the mystery The Turn of the Key.

we starting out discussing the book and then kept talking and talking and talking…

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – run
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – rest day, walk
  • Thursday – run, ZOOM running group chat
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg walk
  • Saturday – LONG RUN, MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!
  • Sunday – rest day, walk, Mother’s Day

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

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

Happy Running! How is your running going?  How is this virus affecting you and your family? Are you having  hard time finding safe places to run? Are you running in new places or are in a running route rut?  Are you having nice spring weather?  How many VIRTUAL races have you signed up for? Please share.

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Ultimate Coffee Date for May

It’s that time of the month…

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

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that this time EVERY year since 2005, I have been in Florida running, playing tennis and getting a tan at the beach.

I even run in a 5k race

Do you have an annual trip that you look forward to every year?

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that the Steel Rail Half Marathon race was postponed until Oct 11.  I really wanted to run this race but NOT a week after another half marathon.  No refunds but you could do it virtually by May 17 and receive all the swag. Not sure I made the right decision but I did decide to run it virtually.

2017 – my Half marathon PR

What would you have done?  

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that May is usually my favorite month. My Birthday. Florida Tennis vacation, Annual Tulip Fest. Beginning of boating season. Freihofer Run for Women, my favorite race. My hubby’s b-day. I could go on and on.

I kinda feel like May was cancelled.

at least no one told the tulips the bad news

What is your favorite month?

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am cooking more, eating more, drinking more wine!!  This pandemic is not healthy.

Anyone else guilty of this?

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I miss racing and traveling so much that I already signed up for a race next February!! (It should be safe to fly by then…)

2018 Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon & Half Marathon - February 18 ...

want to join me?

How are you dealing with the travel ban and race cancellations?

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!
runner-sig

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Pandemic Inspired Goal

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

My Topic today is: My New Goal (inspired by the pandemic)

If you read my blog, you may remember that my goal for 2020 was to run ONE half marathon EACH MONTH.

I even signed up for 7 out 12 races before the year even began.

First there was the foot injury and so I limped through January and February’s.

Then this pandemic!! My March’s was cancelled and April and May’s have been postponed. I have already run two uninspired virtual ones with many more to come, I’m sure.

I am not sure at this point if any of my half marathons this year will be real ones.

So onto a new goal.

Visit ALL the LOCAL 25 NEW NATURE TRAILS. (I realize that ALL is a little vague.  So is the word “local.”  I am going to change it to 25 as my goal.)

There are 18 nature preserves just in my local area.  So I far I have visited 7. https://mohawkhudson.org/our-preserves/find-a-preserve/

In addition to these preserves, there are many parks with trails, arboretums, and nature sanctuaries.  Plenty to keep me busy. I have visited 6 already.

So why is this goal and why visit these areas now?

  • They are free.
  • They are scenic.
  • They have varied terrain.
  • They are well marked and maintained.
  • You can walk them.
  • The trails are looped and of varying distances.
  • You can go when sunny, windy or even rainy.
  • NO ONE ELSE is there!!

Yes, I feel safe and wear a mask (actually a buff). I have barely run into a person (and if so, they are surprised and polite and friendly.)

But of course, many of you would not feel comfortable with this goal.  I am not being critical of anyone who is self isolating.

You can follow my progress with this new goal and view the gazmillion pics through my IG posts (@dsc59).

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! Anyone else getting outdoors more now? Have you changed your original 2020 running/fitness goal? Please share. 

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Weekly Run Down for 4.20.20-4.26.20: Is it over yet?

My WFH stint was supposed to end on April 29. Now it has been extended until at least May 15.

Otherwise things are the same. All social activities still cancelled. Missing my friends!! But keeping in touch via ZOOM.

Trying to get outdoors often so I do not go stir crazy in my Office (aka a room in my house). Always looking for new and interesting places to run or walk and practice social distancing.

This one is sponsored by our local running group – 3 races and you get the medal.

trying to run one of these each week…

The NYC Mini 10k on June 13,2020 was cancelled – another race that I was REALLY looking forward to!!!

JULY 5, 2020 – CANCELLED

I’ve always had to work and could not participate.  This year the hike was on a Sunday and I signed up with the hubby. 😦

But the good news:

Congrats to Kim and Debbie!!

Thanks to all those who entered.  It’s not too late.  You can still register until May 5 at  https://freihofersrun.com/virtual-5k/.  Use the code AMBSS5 and for $20 you will get:

  • 42nd annual virtual Freihofer’s Run for Women t-shirt & bib
  • A finisher’s certificate that can be printed out at home
  • Commemorative finishers’ medal
  • Coupons for Freihofer’s products
  • Automatic entry into Virtual 5k Sweepstakes with great prizes!

The t-shirts, medals and coupons will be mailed to participants the first week in June.

Last Week –

  • Monday – Happy to see the sun shining even if it was only a rest day.

lunch time walk in the park

post work walk at Holly Hock Hollow Sanctuary

  • Tuesday – A nasty windy rainy day!! I skipped my lunch walk and crossed my fingers that the rain (and wind) would stop at some point so I could go for a short run.

Yeah, well the rain did stop. So I drove to the Crossings for a quick run. (I wanted to go to Trader Joes which is why I picked this run location and in the evening now I’ve got plenty of time.)

the wind got to me so I quit early

  • Wednesday – Earth Day!!  I woke up to SNOW!!  It did melt but again it was windy!! I took my usual lunch time walk… Had to find a location to be protected from the CRAZY wind.

hid under the TALL trees in the park and discovered a new loop

and then after work I drove to Washington Park to complete my Earth Day Virtual 5k. The wind was so strong and cold that I threw in the towel.

Don’t let these pictures fool you. It like like winter.

I stopped on the way home to check out a new trail.

I plan to head back here when it is warmer.

  • Thursday – Still cold but at least it was sunny. Rain was in the forecast so I was glad to fit in my lunch walk and planned to try for the 3rd time to run a 5k.

My good friend texted me that she is only working (as a doctor) M,W,F and asked if I wanted to met her for a walk. You know I jumped at the chance to see a friendly face. We shared the view from the trail behind my house

I decided for once to RUN on the trail behind my house. However, I forgot how hilly it was. Still the temps warmed up, the wind died down and I got back in time to cook dinner and ZOOM chat with my running friends. (We did two sessions we were having so much fun.)

belated Earth Day celebration

  • Friday – A rainy rest day. I tried to squeeze my lunch walk in between the raindrops.

Not successful.. Got wet but no biggie.

The rain did stop by the time I finished work. I went back to the trail I discovered on Wednesday and walked the full loop.

Then I found another nearby trail. This loop was longer and muddier but still felt great to be outdoors.

  • Saturday – I started the day with my favorite yoga teacher’s class – Yoga for Runners – Glute & Piriformis Activation and Healing. Great class. Next month is hips!

After class, I headed out for my long run. Again, later than I would have liked. I had planned to run from 9-11 miles but after last weekend, I just wanted to have a decent run.

Where to go? I decided on Peebles Island.  Although I knew that it would be crowded in the park, I knew the path to Green Island would be pretty empty and then the Erie Canal path in Waterford would have no one on it.

And I was right. There were some walkers but they were courteous and wearing masks. I continued father into Green Island (which was new to me) and then returned to my car for a water stop.  Then I proceeded to the canal path which was deserted (and soft on the feet).

Felt so much better than last week – not as warm or as late in the day and I wore my old shoes with no taping

definitely inspired by all those participating in this virtual race series.

After some laundry and gardening, I realized that since it would be raining the next TWO days, I should continue my quest to visit the local preserves and walk the trails.  They are perfect for social distancing since no one is usually at them.

  • Sunday – A ugly raining day. Lots of de-cluttering to done! But first a visit to TWO more preserves:

Just a few raindrops and no one else there. I think I am enjoying these walks more than my runs.

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – run
  • Tuesday –  rest day, walk
  • Wednesday – run (un-canceled 10k)
  • Thursday – run, ZOOM running group chat
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg walk
  • Saturday – LONG RUN (12?)
  • Sunday – rest day, walk, ZOOM tennis book club

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

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

Happy Running! How is your running going?  How is this virus affecting you and your family? Are you having  hard time finding safe places to run? Are you running in new places or are in a running route rut? Have you run any virtual races? Please share.

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Pandemic Runfessions for April

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 have not worn clothes other than running clothes since I started working from home on March 17.  It’s not because they are comfortable. It’s because no one is seeing me and it saves time getting out the door to go for a walk or run.

I do worry that my work clothes may no longer fit.

Do you wear running clothes even when you are working from home?

2. I runfess…

I have spent a lot of time searching for new places to walk or run.  Usually I ran near wherever I was working.  Now working from home makes me want to leave the neighborhood as quick as possible and discover a different environment.

Peebles Island State Park

Did you run in different locations or did you stay close to home?

3.I runfess…

I never ran with a mask on.

I know you think I should have.  I always wore a buff around my neck and could have pulled it up if I felt I was dangerously close to someone else.  But I never felt that way.

Did you run in a mask?

4. I runfess…

I signed up for the Peleton app since it was free for 90 days.  And there were so many really great outdoor running workouts that I could do.  I went as far as pre-loading them.  But unfortunately, they still need an Internet connection and I do not  have unlimited data on my phone so I’ve only used them a few times and the shorter ones.  They would be a lot more useful for me if I had a treadmill.

Peloton - Peloton App Expands to Include Outdoor Runs

Do you use the Peleton app outdoors?

5.I runfess…

I may be enjoying my walks more than my runs. I think it is because they are more scenic and I love taking pictures of nature. I am walking everyday at lunch but as I have mentioned, I am always dressed in running clothes and so I could be running at that time. It is so easy to lose that running mojo when you are not racing.

Is it just me? Are you still motivated to run when they are no races?

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

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

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Virtual Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Recap

Image result for helderberg to hudson half marathon

April 18, 2020

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever. As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

So I signed up for Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon as my 43rd Half Marathon (and 4th of 2020) for several reasons:

  • FOMO. Most of my running friends were doing it.
  • It’s local. I can sleep in my own bed.
  • I am familiar with the course.  I run on it often.
  • It’s a downhill course. (470 ft elevation loss)
  • It is close after my previous half (20 days) so I would be sorta already trained for it.
  • I ran it last year and enjoyed it.
  • My finish time for this race qualified me for the NYC Half and full marathons.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. I ran my last half marathon on March 14 (a virtual version of the NYC Half that was cancelled.)

During my first two 2020 Half Marathons, I experienced a lot of foot pain. I ran them but truthfully it was not fun at the time. (Don’t let that smile below fool you!!)

I tried all kinds of treatments for 12 weeks and finally, the pain seemed to dissipate.

Would it come back? Would I be able to run 13.1 miles without any foot pain?

And then this half marathon was postponed until August!!!

Who wants to do long runs in July and August??? So would I run this race? Would my friends?

So I cautiously trained for a virtual version of the half marathon. And at the same time, I signed up for a Virtual Race (as an additional motivator).

I did my long runs on the weekends…and my weekdays runs as well. I ran alone due the “social distancing” requirement.

I admit that my runs were not as enjoyable as before. Slow and easy with tons of walking (and photo stops.)

So unfortunately, again my goal for this “race” was just finishing and not re-injuring my foot (or any other part of my body)!!

And then a week or two before, ARE decided to offer a FREE virtual option.

You got a bib and you could run any distance that weekend anywhere.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Well, since this was a local race and work days were at my home, there was not much movement the days before.  As I normally do before a big race,  I ate pizza for dinner the night before.  Not being a “real” race, I had some wine too!!

I checked the weather. SNOW!!!! WTF??

I got up and yes, it was snowing!!

Ok. Plan B. The good thing about a VIRTUAL race is that you can run whenever you want.

I quickly decided to postpone this half marathon until Sunday when the weather was supposed to be dry and 60 degrees.

Race Day:

I ate my usual breakfast – oatmeal and coffee.

OOPS. Another wrench in my plan.

When I had originally planned to run this race on April 18, I had scheduled a college reunion in NYC for Sunday. This now was a ZOOM chat from 10am- 1pm!!

original outfit but I ditched the gloves and the long sleeve shirt.

So I got dressed for the race, ZOOMED with my college friends, had lunch and then took off.

The real course had you take a bus to the start and then run to the finish.

Not having this option, I chose to start at my free gym lot, run to the end of the rail trail in Voorheesville (the start of the actual race) and then turn around and run until I hit 13.1.

Anyway, here’s how it went:

Miles 1-6.5:

Here are a few pictures from previous runs on this same trail:

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this one I took today!

AM is my ideal time to run.  Not mid afternoon.  (I didn’t start until almost 2 pm.) Plus it was already warm (not summer warm but April warm).  So I started casually running the uphill portion, stopping to walk when I felt the whim to.

Almost instantly, I felt off and had a sneaky suspicion that this was gong to be torturous.

And it was.  By mile 4, I wanted to quit.  But I am stubborn and I could not.

My foot started to hurt and I feared that the neuroma pain had returned.  Nope, the pain went away.  But both of feet that I had taped so I wouldn’t get blisters were starting to get blisters.  Ouchy!

But onward I went.  I can run through pain.  I just felt like my legs were lead and I had never run before.

There was no way I was quitting so I just focused on moving and walking when I felt that I had to.  I had to a lot or at least it felt that way.

And during this time of isolation, there were many bikers on the path and a few runners and walkers.

It was actually nice.  I waved and smiled.  Bikers were riding in the opposite direction, single file and never too close.  I never felt that my health was compromised.

The weather was beautiful (well, maybe a tad too warm and I could have used some water) and there were many painted rocks and rainbow signs.

Miles 6.5-13.1:

Eventually you arrive at the end of the trail which is an old train station. This was my turn around. I was never so glad to get there.

I had planned to turn around and then run until I reached 13.1 but I was afraid that I wouldn’t.  So I ran/walked around until I hit 6.55 miles.  Then I turned off my Apple watch and continued on my merry (not no merry) way.

The scenery was the same as above but it was now slightly downhill. My legs were tired and I was warm so it didn’t feel as welcoming as I was hoping.

Now bikers were behind me but they always announced themselves and I moved out of the way.

My body was rebelling. It was yelling at me to stop this nonsense.  I had considered walking the second half but it would take too long (and I wanted my ice cream lol).

Eventually I got to my car.  I wanted to kiss the ground.

I’ve never felt so beat up after a race (not even after my full marathon.)

Since I was running alone, I did not TIME my race. I did not care if if I finished in 2 hours or 3 hours. I think it was closer to 3 hours LOL.

And after, I had my chocolate milk AND ice cream cone.

Additional Race Reflections:

Sorry this is such a Debbie Downer race recap.

As with every race, you learn something.

I learned that I am STRONG.  I will not give up.  My feet suck (and I need to pay more attention to socks and shoes). I am glad that I did it and I am grateful that I did not pay money for this one!!

The Good:

  • The weather
  • Flexible start time
  • Downhill course the 2nd half
  • Slept in my own bed the night before
  • No clock, no pressure.
  • Great post race food
  • Bib and virtual support

The Bad:

  • Tired legs
  • No water stops
  • No crowd support
  • Running alone
  • No mojo to run fast
  • My achy feet

The Ugly:

  • Everything listed in Bad

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. But the real thing would have been a lot more fun. Or if I could have run it with friends.

Next Up:

May 17 or so

Yes, another virtual half marathon.  Maybe with some company, maybe solo. My next REAL half marathon will not be until August 29 most likely.

There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies.

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! Have you been training for a big race? Are you running it as an unofficial virtual race?  Have you done any Virtual Races?  If so, how did they go? Please share.

** Today is your last chance!!!

If you haven’t done so yet, enter my giveaway for a free entry to the Freihofer Run for Women Virtual 5k.

Click here to enter.

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Weekly Run Down for 4.13.20-4.19.20: And another one bites the dust..

I am talking about another Half Marathon that I signed up for.

postponed from May 17 to October 11 (which is the week after Smuttynose HM!!)  No refund. I can run 13.1 virtually before May 17 OR on Oct. 11. I decided on the virtual option. I still get all the swag.

Otherwise things are the same. Still working at home (now at least until May 15!!!!) … all social activities still cancelled.

Missing my friends!! Taking advantage of Zoom. I used it on Tues, Thurs, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!!! But I just want to HUG someone…

Trying to get outdoors twice a day so I do not go stir crazy in my Office (aka a room in my house).

Always looking for new and interesting places to run or walk and practice social distancing. I can’t believe how many places I have yet to explore.

signed up for a few of these FREE races – why not???

Last Week –

  • Monday – A rainy windy rest day. I was too busy at work to walk at lunch and it was raining even harder after work – The first day since the lock down that I did not venture outside AT ALL.
  • Tuesday – The sun was out during lunch and I took  advantage and went for a walk.

Thanks Judy for the “rainbow” idea for a scavenger hunt.

Not as warm or sunny after work but I had already decided that I would go to the Crossings for a run.

hardly a soul there and spent most of my run on the trails to escape the wind…yes, that’s a Christmas tree.

Every month, my tennis friends and I go out to dinner. Instead we had a ZOOM chat tonight (15 of us!!)…Hope it’s our last and we can see each face to face next month.

  • Wednesday – I guess you can say that I’ve settled into a routine…WORK, walk, Work, run or walk, dinner, knit/read/TV.

lunch walk – pretty chilly when the sun went in and even saw flurries but then pretty nice for the few minutes when the sun came out

I decided that today would be a good day to complete my virtual 5k. I drove to the Corning Bike Path since the distance is marked there. I can’t say that I “raced” especially since I was too warm and had to stop to take off my extra shirt, tie my shoes, rest my weary legs and of course, take pics (=my usual easy run). Still an enjoyable 3.5 miles outdoors (with hardly a soul on the path)..

  • Thursday – Ok, I woke up to snow on the ground but it did melt by lunch so I could take a chilly walk.

just a few flurries but brrr

I was debating on whether to or not to run after work but I just decided to go for an easy one and rest tomorrow. Per my plan to run in different places, I drove to Albany end of the rail (where I have never started my run).

running uphill into the wind was not fun but the scenery was worth it

In the evening, there was our weekly Sole Sister Zoom chat.  Not the same as running together but still enjoy seeing their smiling faces.  Miss my running friends!!

  • Friday – Officially a rest day. That meant NO running but two walks.

a short one on the trails behind my house at lunch

a longer one at my new favorite after work spot (Pine Hollow Arboretum) – the tree are STARTING to bloom up north

  • Saturday -Today was supposed to be the Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon – the one I was supposed to be running with all my friends.  The race has been postponed until Aug 29 but they added a free virtual option.

Though the race would have had you running point to point on the rail trail, I would have to run it as an out and back (But at least the back would be downhill).

You were allowed to run the race either Saturday or Sunday.  When I got up on Saturday…it was cold and snowy so I decide to postpone my virtual half until Sunday.

AM view. The silver lining of this pandemic was that I didn’t HAVE to run today!!

Just spent the day doing errands, stuff around the house and going for a long walk (once the snow stopped). I decided to check out another NEW place.  What a treasure!! Wish I had more time to spend there.

can’t believe there are so many places nearby that I have never been to…I can’t wait to go back here when I have more time.

Later in the afternoon, we had our 2nd ZOOM Blogger Ultimate Coffee Date.

always enjoyable chatting with these lovely ladies

  • Sunday – So today I set out to complete the H2H Half Marathon…solo.

I was originally supposed to run this yesterday, right?  And I had a college reunion (we spent out junior year of college in France together) scheduled in NYC for today.  Oops. I forgot that we had replaced it with a ZOOM chat.

over 3 hours…. would have lasted longer if I didn’t have a half marathon to run lol

Good thing about virtual races is that you can run them whenever. So this one happened in the afternoon.  The weather was a lot warmer than I had hoped for but not complaining (as I was planning to wear a skirt no matter  what.)

As with all my virtual races, I didn’t really “race” it but just put in the miles and tried to enjoy the scenery and being outdoors. But no lie, this one was tough. I struggled from mile 4 on. Right now, I am trying to put it out of mind.

Onward and upward. Next one is May 17 or so (it’s virtual,of course.)

This Coming Week – 

  • Monday – rest day, walk
  • Tuesday –  run
  • Wednesday – Virtual Earth Day 5k
  • Thursday – run 
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg walk
  • Saturday – Virtual Un-Canceled Project 15K
  • Sunday – rest day, walk

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

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

Happy Running! How is your running going?  How is this virus affecting you and your family? Are you having  hard time finding safe places to run? Are you running in new places or are in a running route rut? Have you been running any virtual races? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

If you haven’t done so yet, enter my giveaway for a free entry to the Freihofer Run for Women Virtual 5k.

Click here to enter.