End of Summer Runfessions

August 30, 2024 by 15 Comments

Amazing that we are here on the cusp of the last weekend of the Summer. I feel like I say it often, but time does feel like it’s flying by faster all the time.  Since it’s the last Friday of the month, for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Marcia to share a couple of Runfessions so I can go into the Fall with a clean slate.

I runfess (or is it blogfess) that I almost skipped this post today. Work has been so off the chain lately that once I finish the day I want very little more to do with my laptop.

I runfess that I managed to make it through most of the summer with very little “runner envy”. I’ve never made any secret of my dislike of running through the heat and humidity. I’ve been content with walking and strength training…and then we got a taste of Fall this week. These cooler morning have me longing to lace up my running shoes – hopefully I can be back at it before my favorite run season is over.

Dreaming about fall running!

What’s your favorite season for running? 

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!


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Five Bucket List Races and Fitness Events

August 23, 2024 by 6 Comments

For a runner or fitness enthusiast, there’s no shorter of races or events to capture your imagination! For this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m  sharing five races and fitness experiences that are high on my bucket list.

Fit Five Friday: Five Bucket List Races and Fitness Events

Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run

The Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run in Washington, D.C., is a springtime classic that I’ve long wanted to experience. When my boys were playing lacrosse,  schedules never aligned to make this race possible, but with them both in college now I’m hoping to make this race a reality.

Broad Street Run

The Broad Street Run is another 10-mile race high on my list. The course is a straight shot down Broad Street, running through the heart of Philadelphia, and is one of the most popular road races in the country. It’s a race that celebrates the spirit of Philly, and I can’t wait to be a part of it!

BolderBoulder 10K

The BolderBoulder 10K in Colorado is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community, fitness, and fun. With live music, great spectators, and a finish in the University of Colorado’s Folsom Field, this race offers an unforgettable experience. The altitude and the energy of Boulder make it a unique challenge I’m eager to take on.

NYC Half Marathon

Running through the streets of New York City is always special, and the NYC Half Marathon is no exception. The course takes you through Times Square, Central Park, and other iconic spots, all while soaking in the energy of the city. It’s a perfect way to experience NYC’s vibrant atmosphere while tackling a challenging but manageable distance.

Peloton Studios, NYC

While not a traditional race, a live class at Peloton Studios in NYC is a fitness experience I’m eager to check off my list. The energy of being in the studio with one of my favorite Peloton instructors coaching would be an awesome experience!

What’s on your racing/fitness bucket list? Share in the comments below!

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!

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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Bolder Boulder, Broad Street Run, bucket list, Cherry Blossom, Friday Five, NYC Half Marathon, Peloton, races

Five Tips for Staying Positive While Dealing with an Injury

August 9, 2024 by 6 Comments

Injuries are a tough pill to swallow, especially for those of us who love running and fitness. As someone who is currently navigating the ups and downs of an injury, I know how challenging it can be to keep a positive mindset. So for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m sharing my top five tips for staying upbeat while you heal:

Fit Five Friday: 5 Tips for Staying Positive While Dealing with an Injury

Focus on What You Can Do – Instead of dwelling on what you can’t do, concentrate on what you can. Perhaps this is a great time to work on your upper body strength, flexibility, or even to dive into a new fitness activity that you’ve always wanted to try. Shifting your focus helps maintain a sense of accomplishment and progress.

Set Small, Achievable Goals – I’m a goal setter, and find that setting small, realistic goals can give you a sense of purpose and achievement. Whether it’s being able to walk without pain or completing a certain number of physical therapy sessions, each milestone you reach is a step toward recovery. Celebrate these victories, no matter how minor they may seem.

Stay Connected with Your Community – Staying in touch with your running and fitness community can provide much-needed support and encouragement, and keep you motivated, especially on the tough days.

Explore Creative Outlets – Injury recovery can be a perfect time to explore creative activities that you enjoy but might not usually have time for. Whether it’s drawing, painting, writing, cooking, or playing a musical instrument, engaging in creative pursuits can be incredibly therapeutic and fulfilling. It helps shift your focus away from the injury and provides a productive way to express yourself and stay mentally engaged.

Try to Keep a Positive Outlook – Do what you can to remind yourself that this injury is temporary and that you will come out stronger on the other side. Visualize your recovery and the goals you’ll achieve once you’re healed. Positive affirmations and mantras can also be great tools to maintain an optimistic mindset.

How have you dealt with an injury? What other tips would you add?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!

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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Friday Five, injuries

August Coffee Catch Up

August 2, 2024 by 19 Comments

Hello August – Can you believe we’re at the start of a new month already?!

And, since it’s the first Friday of the month, for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m joining Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. Grab a mug – or perhaps an iced coffee, and let’s chat!

August Coffee Catch Up

Over coffee, I would tell you that I’ll be enjoying 4-day work weeks for the rest of the summer. My office closes every other Friday for “Summer Fridays” so I figured why not throw in some of my vacation days to even out the weeks. Work continues to be off the chain so why not lean into some long weekends, right?

Over coffee, I would ask you if you’ve been watching the Olympics? I have been all in  – I have especially loved watching the women’s and men’s gymnastics teams, the swim events, and women’s rugby. So many great moments and I’m looking forward to the track events to come!

Over coffee, I would tell you that I want to learn a language. I have been thinking about this for a while but have been putting it off. I recently received an email promoting Babbel’s birthday sale and am taking it as a sign to dive in! Now the debate is whether to go with Spanish or French. I took Spanish in high school and have retained some over the years, while I only took a semester of French in college. Both will work for future vacation plans…decisions, decisions.

Over coffee, I would tell you that we are 3 weeks away from moving my youngest into his dorm. I’m not ready! Deep breaths…

What would you tell me over coffee? Do you have a favorite moment from the Olympics?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!


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Fit Five Friday – Current Favorites

July 19, 2024 by 8 Comments

Happy Friday!

For this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m sharing some of my current favorites.

Fit Five Friday – Current Favorites

(This post contains affiliate links)

Holos – This has become a go-to breakfast for me of late. I love the range of flavors and that it delivers 20g of protein among other goodness! I like mine topped with fresh fruit.

Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30 – This moisturizer from Fenty Beauty is lightweight, doesn’t slide off my face, and delivers sun protection – all the things I want in a summer moisturizer. I also love that the product offers refillable packaging. I’ll have to wait to see if it is lighter than I need for winter days in New England, but for now I’m a fan!

Zensah Recovery Compression Shorts – These shorts are my BFF as I work my way back to running again. They offer great support for both quads and hamstrings, and they’re moisture-wicking.

Source: Zensah

On Shoes – I shared on IG a couple of weeks ago that I was excited to try out the Cloud 5 by On. These are my first pair of On shoes and will most certainly not be my last. Comfortable, lightweight, supportive – and so cute! What’s not to love?!

Peloton Sleep Mediations – Of late, I have really been enjoying the Peloton sleep mediations to help me to wind down and drift off to sleep. Ross’ classes are especially effective – I have yet to reach the end of one of classes 🙂 I’m so disappointed that Ross is leaving Peloton – I hope they don’t purge his classes any time soon.

Have you tried any of these? What’s one favorite you’re enjoying right now? 

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!


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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, fave things

July Coffee Catch Up

July 5, 2024 by 18 Comments

Taking a quick pause in the 4th of July weekend festivities for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. So grab your fave beverage and let’s catch up!

July Coffee Catch Up

Over coffee I would tell you that this week I have been enjoying a much-needed staycation! My office is closed for the week of July 4th and the timing of this break couldn’t have come at a better time. After a whirlwind that was June, I’m hoping that I can slow down a bit to enjoy the lazy days of summer and this week is a good start.

Over coffee, I would tell you how excited I am to finally be back in my kitchen! Our whirlwind renovation is coming to a close – we’ve  got a few items left on the punch list for our contractor, but we are moving back into the new space.

Over coffee, I would tell you that, after the second cortisone shot provided only a brief pause in my hip-area pain, I’m moving on to shockwave therapy. My first appointment is this morning – wish me luck!

What would you tell me over coffee? 

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!


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June Runfessions

June 28, 2024 by 10 Comments

Happy Friday! It’s time for another edition of Fit Five Friday, – and since it’s the last Friday of the month, I’m linking up with Marcia to share a Runfession or two.

June Runfessions

Last month I shared my annoyance with the new Garmin Connect “upgrade”. Well I runfess that since I received my new Apple Watch as a Mother’s Day gift, my Garmin hasn’t seen the light of day. Maybe things will change when I return to running…but for now #sorrynotsorry

I runfess that while I miss running I’m more than ok with missing the slogfest that is summer running. I’ve made no secret that this is my least favorite season for running, so with the heat index reaching tripple digits over the past week, I’m fine with keeping my fitness focused on walking and strength training.

One of my goals for June was to get back to my yoga mat at least once a week. Goal accomplished – however, I runfess that as much as I try I’m not sure yoga will ever be my thing.

Summer running – Yay or Nay? Do you make time for yoga or is it not your thing?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!

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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Runfessions, Yoga

Five Songs for Your Workout Playlist

June 21, 2024 by 6 Comments

Happy Friday!

Thanks for joining Darlene, Jenn, Renée, Zenaida, and me for another edition of Fit Five Friday. This week we’re talking about music for workouts. (Of course, you should always feel free to write about any fitness/wellness-related topic.)

Whether I am running or working out music is almost always part of the mix for me. I like a wide range of music and at any time you can find many different genrés on my playlists – country and metal being the exceptions! What I’m listening to really depends on my mood, but here are five songs you might want to add to your playlist.

Five Songs for Your Workout Playlist

Lose Yourself by Eminem – a classic workout song in my opinion, both for its uptempo beat and motivational lyrics. 17 years after it debuted it still gets your heart pumping!

Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand – I added this one to my play list after my son and his ensemble performed it at his fall concert.

Golden by Jill Scott — I just love the vibe of this song and the lyrics. It never fails to put a smile on my face.

Demons by Imagine Dragons — at least one Imagine Dragons’ song often seems to make it on to my playlists.

Smooth by Santana, featuring Rob Thomas — This one comes from one of my favorite albums, Supernatural, and makes me want to dance my way through a workout.

I could definitely share more than five – but tell me, what are some songs on your workout play list?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!

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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, music

June Coffee Catch Up

June 7, 2024 by 22 Comments

Happy Friday!

It’s the first Friday of the month which means for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. So grab your fave beverage and let’s catch up!

June Coffee Catch Up

Over coffee, I would tell you that tomorrow we’re closing the book on the high school years. These past couple of weeks have been a blur of all the Senior things and I’ve been doing my best to slow down and take in each event. I cannot believe graduation is tomorrow!

Over coffee, I would tell you that next week we’re off to UNH’s orientation – yep no rest for the weary!

Over coffee, I would tell you that I had my second cortisone shot a couple of weeks ago, and I’m still no closer to running again. Sigh.

Over coffee, I would tell you that because work has been off the chain lately, I now find myself with a lot of vacation days to use. Not a bad problem to have at all! I have today off and will be plotting how soon I can put the rest of these days to good use.

What would you tell me over coffee? Any vacation plans in the works?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!

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MAYhem Runfessions

May 31, 2024 by 9 Comments

Wowza here we are on the last day of May  – I have to ask why is May such a busy month?! Overall it’s been a good, but hectic month – living up to its “MAYhem” reputation. As we move into June I’m personally hoping to see more white space on the calendar.

Since it’s the last Friday of the month, for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m linking up with Marcia to share a couple of Runfessions so I can go into June with a clean slate.

MAYhem Runfessions

I runfess that blogging has really been pushed to the back burner. I only recently realized that my blog anniversary had come and gone. It’s hard to believe it’s been 14 years! Perhaps as things slow down during the summer I’ll find my blogging mojo again.

I runfess that this month I have been inundated with product review requests coming through the blog –  oh the irony!

At the begining of the month I got the update of the Garmin Connect app and I runfess that I wish I hadn’t. I can’t find the data easily – I’m not a fan of having to scroll so much, it’s cumbersome. In my opinion there was nothing wrong with the old interface – as I saw someone else post, it feels like change for change sake. Sigh…

Have you ever had an “upgrade” that you could have lived without? What would you runfess?

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!

Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Share your fitness-related link, link back to your hosts, and please share the link love by visiting and commenting on your hosts and at least two other Fit Five Friday bloggers!


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Filed Under: #FitFiveFriday, Runfessions