Coffee Talk 2/22

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

I don't know about anybody else but I feel like I'm still recovering from last week's race. Ever have a week where you just can't seem to get out of your own way? That's how I have been feeling. I could not kick it into high gear this week. All my body wanted to do was rest, rest, rest. So I did. I am determined to get out there this week, though, and stay on track for the New Bedford 1/2. For those of you planning to run the 1/2, please sign up when you can and let me know. Last year there were 3 of us--Lisa Letourneau, Courtnee Munson and me. And I went there kicking and screaming the entire way. And for those of you who have a memory (I really don't but this one detail stands out in my mind)that was the day I discovered how terrible multi-grain bagels are without cream cheese. I stand by that statement today.

But as always, I digress. Another sign of the aging process and dementia.

The New Bedford 1/2 is a terrific precursor to a marathon, especially for those of you who are planning to run the full marathon in May (Providence/Cox Rhode Race). This will give you an idea of what your marathon pace would be--not exact, but pretty darn close. It's also a chance for us to run together. I will advise you, though, that it is not a race to be taken lightly. It can be very cold along the water. There are also 2 hills that are rather daunting and of course one is at the end. So when deciding, remember those 2 factors.

We all gathered on Saturday, 2/21, for our weekly long run. As always, choosing the best weather day is key and Saturday seemed to be it for the majority. I mapped out a route and did so under time constraints. With that said, I think I made a mistake on the route (gee, what a surprise.) I did check the prime time records and know that everyone got back so I hope you didn't get too lost. Jane, Courtnee, Tara, Liz, Cynthia and myself headed out together for our long runs. I have to say that it was cold running through farm country in Rehoboth. Had I known, I would have mapped another route. Nice runs, ladies. Jane tacked on an additional 3 miles for her marathon prep. I give her a lot of credit. I didn't have it in me. Courtnee kept a nice pace the entire time. Tara, Liz and Cynthia tackled their runs as well and are gearing up for a strong 1/2 marathon in the spring.

The walk/run group had a strong turnout yesterday. Led by Chris Ross, Karen Araujo, Lisa Cote, Lisa's sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Tom (visiting from Florida), Mary, Lori and Mary Ellen ventured out for 3.2 miles. Nice job everyone. If you know of anyone who would like to join in, bring them along. Chris will continue to lead the group and follow a pace that is appropriate for everybody. Please make sure you review the weekly Walk/Run 5K schedule and tailor it to your individual needs. For example, when you see 2.75 miles, you can walk/run 2.75 miles if you don't feel you are up to running the entire distance. Set a pace that works for you. Before you know it, you will be running 3.2 without stopping. Please plan to meet in the lobby at 8:45 a.m. for a 9:00 a.m. start time. You can use the 15 minutes to stretch.

Sandy Pereira went out with her husband, Victor, yesterday afternoon for a nice 6 mile run. I talked to Katie Damon as well and she ran her mileage yesterday which include Hillside. If you haven't run Hillside yet, don't worry, you will. CJ and Stacie ran out and back on Route 152 and got their mileage in as well. After talking with them, it seems 152 was the warmer route. I wish I had mapped that one. Lisa Letourneau ran yesterday afternoon and was getting out there this morning as well. How did you feel like doing that? Jill Lifrak was also out with her husband, Joe, this morning and got 13 miles under her belt. I feel so incomplete without all of you.

When we all meet in the lobby, we need to meet closer to the door. The front desk is blocked and members are having a hard time getting around us. It is also difficult to for the staff to hear the phones. Just something to keep in mind when we meet.

Luca will be setting up tri-swimming shortly. This is for people who want to improve their swimming ability in preparation for a triathlon. I know we had discussed a triathlon race for all of us to take part in. I would like to get your feedback as far as races are concerned. If there is a race that you would recommend for beginners, or a race that you plan on doing, please let me know so we can share it with the group. Sherilynn Pearce has mentioned Danskin, which is an option. Courtnee and I have done Bayside. Lisa has done Wild Dog. There are plenty of them out there, just let me know your opinions.

There will be a HIIT session next Sunday, followed by a swim, provided that the pool is open.

I think that's all for now. Have a great week.

Joyce