I hope everyone had a great weekend. It is lunchtime on Monday and I'm just sitting at my desk, talking to you. You should feel honored . . . it is sunny, mid-80s, no work deadlines, and the golf clubs are crying out to me. I'd rather be here with you. Of course I am honored by you stopping in to see what is happening in my life.
It was a busy weekend.
Friday night, Susan's oldest daughter, MAC, had a soccer game. They were playing one of the better teams in the county and finished with a 2-2 tie. MAC played strong and looks better every week. She had a nice steal, attacked a 2 on 4 situation and scored a goal in the first minute of play. The other team was good and had a lot more shots on goal but our goalies played great and kept the damage minimal.
Saturday morning I woke up early and headed out for a quick run. My legs were still sore from Thursday evenings workout and at first I thought I'd have to quit. However, after about a mile of stumbling through the neighborhood, I finally loosened up and got in a very nice 5 miler. It was sunny and the at 8:00 the temperature was a very nice 60 degrees. A beautiful morning for a run and now I wish I had stayed out there longer. However, we had a day full of activities planned and I needed to get on the stick.
After the run, I went over to Susan's to help her in the yard some more. After moving the doghouse (kids are amazed at simple things like pipes for rollers under the doghouse), picking up and planting more impatiens in the front flower bed, we took a break and went to a nearby garden shop to let the girls pick out flowers for their "OWN" flower bed. It is a shady area and I helpd steer them to the shady plants. MAC and E both got coleus, caladiums, impatiens, foxglove. We also got some sun plants for a little area that sees lots of sun. We spent a couple of hours Saturday afternoon raking back mulch in the natural area, prepping the ground for planting, and showing the girls how to layout their "gardens" before planting. I personally enjoy working in flower beds and it was fun to watch and teach the the girls. After that, Susan and I went to work on ripping out ivy and cutting down overgrown shrubbery. I also chopped roots and pulled up stumps from the shrubbery. We stopped working about 4 ish since MAC had another soccer game.
We had a snack and headed to the soccer field. It was a 6:45 game and the weather was wonderful. We sat next to some of Susan's friends who has a daughter on the opposing team. I am not a coach and know little about soccer but on the way to the field I was describing to MAC how well the team from the previous night played defense and how they kept stealing and intercepting. I told MAC to layback on throw ins. Told her how to let her man look open and as soon as the thrower starts to throw, break in front and steal. I showed her how to stay on the field side of the girl and use the sideline as an extra man. Showed her how to stay just out of the other girl's vision. Guess what . . . . she had at least 10 steals, blocks, or knock aways. Everytime she'd do it, she'd give me a thumbs up and a grin. She had a couple of breakaways and one on ones but couldn't score. The game ended 1-1 and all the spectators felt it was a very well played game. Half of her team went to the same restaurant (unplanned) and we all had a great time.
Sunday we headed to church and sunday school and after that we went to an art show in downtown Birmingham. My legs were still surprisingly sore from the elliptical work on Thursday. We bought a few things at the art show and headed to Susan's house for dinner. We stopped by the market and we each picked something out for the grill. We had Talapia, asparagus, fresh pulled corn, all cooked on the grill along with a Caesar salad. All in all, it was a fun and busy weekend.
Be sure to go by Amy's website and read her story about the proposal. Yes, Troy finally asked her. I played phone tag with her but have not gotten to speak directly with her. The story is good and you can tell she's just a little bit giddy about it.
I would say go to Susan's blog but for some reason, SHE HAS NOT UPDATED SINCE APRIL 10!!!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
FRIDAY!
Yes, it seems that I hear the word FRIDAY sighed, shouted, laughed, and cried all around the office. I'm sure most of you are hearing and feeling the same thing. When I was younger, Friday was just another day. Now I find it more and more a demarcation of sorts . . . a boundary between my "have to" life and who I am actually wanting to grow up to be. Does that make sense? Does it mean that I am finally growing up or does it mean that I am heading into my second (or third) childhood?
Over the last couple of weeks I have been staying true to my running. At least four days a week I've been out there, slogging aroud, trying to get back into shape. I've been running about half of my runs in Susan's neighborhood where there are lots of rolling hills. I think that will pay off.
Yesterday afternoon I did a quick four miler, half of which I ran with Marc "Animal", my neighbor. We were taking it semi-easy since we were both whining about tired legs. We had a nice chat during the run. He seems to be doing well after losing his mom last month. After my run, I called my mom and dad and let them know I was still alive. Of course, being parents, they're curious about how life is . . . . How do you answer that?
After the phone call, Susan came by and picked me up and we headed to the Y. She was wanting to do some cardio and I had planned on lifting but I decided to go upstairs and check out the cardio room. Keep in mind that I ABSOLUTELY HATE machines. I cannot believe that people would choose to run on a belt indoors when the outside is so much nicer. Anyway . . . Susan said let's do elliptical. Sounded kinky to me so I said "sure!". Little did I know the agony that awaited me. Susan jumped on her machine, programmed it and was doing her thing in a few seconds. I just looked dumbly at the buttons, knobs, and lights. It looked like something from an old horror flick. How do you make it go???? Finally, she felt sorry for me and told me to do a 30 minute preprogrammed cardio workout. Right. Easy to say . . . which button? She helped me through that too and I finally got started. It's not that I am unfit. It is just different. When you're used to running, this machine is very tough to learn, as I quickly discovered. I couldn't figure out if I was supposed to be moving my whole body or keeping my upper body still and just using from the hips down. I am sure everyone in the room was having a good chuckle watching me. I finally got comfortable, picked what I thought was a decent cadence, and shlupped through the next 30 minutes. I kept my heart rate around 125 and the lights on the machine showed that I was working between the weight loss zone and the cardio zone. I guess I did okay for a first timer. Remember that I had just run 4 miles and had never done this machine before. I felt pretty good about it until I tried stepping off the machine and walking. I was definitely a rubberband man! Legs are a little sore this morning but I really enjoyed doing something different.
I also did something yesterday that I had never done before-
I took MAC, Susan's 10 year old daughter, to work with me. For those of you who didn't know it, yesterday was "Take your daughter and son to work day". MAC had been asking about my job and office for the last couple of months. How do you explain to a 10 year old that you work in an office that was the prototype for the DILBERT cartoon? I asked her a couple of weeks ago if she would be interested in coming to work with me and she was fired up about it. I gave her a couple of opportunities to back out over the last week but her resolve just became stronger. So yesterday was the big day and I think that she really had a good time. I showed her some of the things I do. Some very boring to a 10 year old, like updating databases, writing 10CFR50.59 evaluations, etc. However, I also do some pretty cool stuff, like 3D modeling of piping systems. That was a hit. Almost like a computer game! I let her play with Autocad and she learned simple stuff like lines, circles, and she even learned (sort of) how to do 3d solids. We had a nice luncheon for all the kids that were in the office and they were indoctrinated about nuclear power (that is what I do, afterall). I really didn't think that she was paying attention but after lunch, when we got back to my desk, she was asking questions. Very cool. We spent the afternoon browsing the NRCs (NRC.gov) website since they have a lot of elementary information about nuclear power. I helped her pull together some information for a handout and report that she was going to give in school today. At the end of the day, I told her it was time to go and she wanted to stay longer! The difference in a 10 year old and a 47 year old. In her words . . . It was fun.
Have a great weekend!
Over the last couple of weeks I have been staying true to my running. At least four days a week I've been out there, slogging aroud, trying to get back into shape. I've been running about half of my runs in Susan's neighborhood where there are lots of rolling hills. I think that will pay off.
Yesterday afternoon I did a quick four miler, half of which I ran with Marc "Animal", my neighbor. We were taking it semi-easy since we were both whining about tired legs. We had a nice chat during the run. He seems to be doing well after losing his mom last month. After my run, I called my mom and dad and let them know I was still alive. Of course, being parents, they're curious about how life is . . . . How do you answer that?
After the phone call, Susan came by and picked me up and we headed to the Y. She was wanting to do some cardio and I had planned on lifting but I decided to go upstairs and check out the cardio room. Keep in mind that I ABSOLUTELY HATE machines. I cannot believe that people would choose to run on a belt indoors when the outside is so much nicer. Anyway . . . Susan said let's do elliptical. Sounded kinky to me so I said "sure!". Little did I know the agony that awaited me. Susan jumped on her machine, programmed it and was doing her thing in a few seconds. I just looked dumbly at the buttons, knobs, and lights. It looked like something from an old horror flick. How do you make it go???? Finally, she felt sorry for me and told me to do a 30 minute preprogrammed cardio workout. Right. Easy to say . . . which button? She helped me through that too and I finally got started. It's not that I am unfit. It is just different. When you're used to running, this machine is very tough to learn, as I quickly discovered. I couldn't figure out if I was supposed to be moving my whole body or keeping my upper body still and just using from the hips down. I am sure everyone in the room was having a good chuckle watching me. I finally got comfortable, picked what I thought was a decent cadence, and shlupped through the next 30 minutes. I kept my heart rate around 125 and the lights on the machine showed that I was working between the weight loss zone and the cardio zone. I guess I did okay for a first timer. Remember that I had just run 4 miles and had never done this machine before. I felt pretty good about it until I tried stepping off the machine and walking. I was definitely a rubberband man! Legs are a little sore this morning but I really enjoyed doing something different.
I also did something yesterday that I had never done before-
I took MAC, Susan's 10 year old daughter, to work with me. For those of you who didn't know it, yesterday was "Take your daughter and son to work day". MAC had been asking about my job and office for the last couple of months. How do you explain to a 10 year old that you work in an office that was the prototype for the DILBERT cartoon? I asked her a couple of weeks ago if she would be interested in coming to work with me and she was fired up about it. I gave her a couple of opportunities to back out over the last week but her resolve just became stronger. So yesterday was the big day and I think that she really had a good time. I showed her some of the things I do. Some very boring to a 10 year old, like updating databases, writing 10CFR50.59 evaluations, etc. However, I also do some pretty cool stuff, like 3D modeling of piping systems. That was a hit. Almost like a computer game! I let her play with Autocad and she learned simple stuff like lines, circles, and she even learned (sort of) how to do 3d solids. We had a nice luncheon for all the kids that were in the office and they were indoctrinated about nuclear power (that is what I do, afterall). I really didn't think that she was paying attention but after lunch, when we got back to my desk, she was asking questions. Very cool. We spent the afternoon browsing the NRCs (NRC.gov) website since they have a lot of elementary information about nuclear power. I helped her pull together some information for a handout and report that she was going to give in school today. At the end of the day, I told her it was time to go and she wanted to stay longer! The difference in a 10 year old and a 47 year old. In her words . . . It was fun.
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Welcome back
Yes, I am back to my blogging. I've been out of pocket, out of sorts, and out of time but things have sort of settled for now and I can share my thoughts with you once again. I know that you're thrilled.
Over the past several weeks we have finally gotten some rain. What a relief to discover that all my vehicles were not yellow as the welcome wet stuff washed the pollen off.
Over the last couple of months my running has ebbed and flowed. More ebbing to be honest. Part of the problem was my legs were hurting. Note to self-replace your shoes after 350 miles. Yep . . . I needed new shoes and what a difference. I've run Monday and Tuesday this week and my legs feel great. I did 6 miles on Monday . . . nothing spectacular-just ran. Shelly joined me for a couple of miles and I enjoyed the company. Tuesday I went to Susan's and ran in Mountainbrook where there are no flat roads. Very hilly and tough running but I did a 30 minute loop that was very rewarding. Nothing like seeing everything in bloom and looking at 500k to 1 million dollar homes along the route. Makes me realize how really poor I am! Everyone I saw along the way was friendly and waved . . . if they only knew that I was just a visitor!
As some of you know, I had gotten into the lottery for last Fall's NYC marathon and had gotten in. However, I bailed out due to injury and was guaranteed entry into the 2007 NYC marathon. I received my notification of my entry and all I need to do is send them money. Could this be what I need to get me back on track or just another pipe dream? I think I'll send in the money. I have roughly seven months to get ready. I know that seems like a long time but as you well know, when you're training for a marathon, you need lots of time.
Susan's dad is doing better and is leaving rehab this week to go home. Her computer had died a couple of months ago and I had loaned her my laptop. Last Saturday I helped her pick out a new machine and set it up for her. Hopefully she'll finally get off of dial up and start using all that horsepower she got Saturday.
Watch for a future blog, I am wanting some feedback on an issue and I am putting together a questionnaire. Doesn't that sound like fun???
Have a great day!
Over the past several weeks we have finally gotten some rain. What a relief to discover that all my vehicles were not yellow as the welcome wet stuff washed the pollen off.
Over the last couple of months my running has ebbed and flowed. More ebbing to be honest. Part of the problem was my legs were hurting. Note to self-replace your shoes after 350 miles. Yep . . . I needed new shoes and what a difference. I've run Monday and Tuesday this week and my legs feel great. I did 6 miles on Monday . . . nothing spectacular-just ran. Shelly joined me for a couple of miles and I enjoyed the company. Tuesday I went to Susan's and ran in Mountainbrook where there are no flat roads. Very hilly and tough running but I did a 30 minute loop that was very rewarding. Nothing like seeing everything in bloom and looking at 500k to 1 million dollar homes along the route. Makes me realize how really poor I am! Everyone I saw along the way was friendly and waved . . . if they only knew that I was just a visitor!
As some of you know, I had gotten into the lottery for last Fall's NYC marathon and had gotten in. However, I bailed out due to injury and was guaranteed entry into the 2007 NYC marathon. I received my notification of my entry and all I need to do is send them money. Could this be what I need to get me back on track or just another pipe dream? I think I'll send in the money. I have roughly seven months to get ready. I know that seems like a long time but as you well know, when you're training for a marathon, you need lots of time.
Susan's dad is doing better and is leaving rehab this week to go home. Her computer had died a couple of months ago and I had loaned her my laptop. Last Saturday I helped her pick out a new machine and set it up for her. Hopefully she'll finally get off of dial up and start using all that horsepower she got Saturday.
Watch for a future blog, I am wanting some feedback on an issue and I am putting together a questionnaire. Doesn't that sound like fun???
Have a great day!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Yellow snow?
Yes, I said pollen. Thank goodness that I do not have allergies. Don't know how things are going around the rest of the country, but here in central Alabama things are yucky. With the warm temperatures early this spring, it seems that every form of vegetation is amorous and trying to pollinate like there is no tomorrow. To make matters worse, it has not rained in a couple of weeks. Everything around here has a nice dull yellow coat on it. The parking lot at work looks like it has snowed yellow snow (there's a great visualization for you). Driving down the highway looks like driving down an old dirt farm road . . . yellow dust up in the air, swirling around, covering everything. Temperatures have been in the low to mid 80s with a couple of days in the high 80s. This is perfectly normal if it were the end of May. In summary, not great conditions for running, especially when it is supposed to be in the 60s with a couple of rain showers a week.
However, being the trooper that I am (yes, troopers can be fat), I have continued my running. Not training-just running. Trying to get back into a nice consistent pattern. I've been running without my watch and just enjoying the scenery . . . kids out playing, families strolling the street, people walking their dogs. It's amazing how so many people refuse to be outdoors until it gets warm weather.
WARNING- SOAPBOX MOMENT: kids and outdoors. What is it with kids now days that they stay glued to the computer or video games? I understand parents not wanting their kids napped by the boogie man, but in a neighborhood loaded with kids and at least a few adults out in the yards, I think safety is somewhat covered. I sadly chuckle to myself as I run by houses with basketball goals that never get used except by want-to-be middle agers like myself. Parents spend enormous amounts of money on b'ball goals, swing sets, forts, play sets, trampolines, etc. and I never, ever see kids using them. Our generation needs to become more responsible and teach those behind us how to use their bodies. I will now step off my soapbox.
I ran Saturday and Monday. Sunday afternoon was an active day . . . I was at Susan's after church and was in charge of the girls. After allowing some TV (I am not a hypocrite . . . Florida was playing Oregon on TV!), we moved to outdoor activities. One of E's friends came over and we had a soccer match that lasted about 40 minutes. It ended up a 4-4 tie. After that, we shot some hoops and had a nice game of HORSE. After that, it was time for a lesson . . . Susan has been trying to get E off her training wheels and we decided that Sunday was as good a day as any. I don't think I have ever worked so hard in all my life! I wanted to teach her the way my mom and dad taught me-tie a rope from the bike to the car bumper and just take off! (kidding). E is a good climber/player but I guess I am unaccustomed to the eye-hand co-ordination of a 7 year old. We spent 20 or 30 minutes just getting her used to the handlebars and balancing at the same time. I kept my hand on the back of the seat but let her have the handlebars. Pretty funny . . . like watching a drunk stagger home. However, she was a trooper and kept trying and eventually got where she could hold a straight line and turn the bike around in the street. After she got that down, I started pushing her a little faster and worked on her peddling and looking forward. Why she wanted to stop peddling and look at the ground is beyond me but we finally got it through to her that she had to peddle if she didn't want to fall. After a few more passes up and down the street, I secretly took my hand off the seat but jogged along beside her . . . she was doing fine until she realized she was doing it herself. Bottom line is that after an hour, she was able to ride by herself but interest was fading and though Susan wanted to keep up the lesson, I thought it time to stop (my back was hurting and I was sweating like a pig!). Now that she has a taste of it, I think that she will be wanting more, as long as we don't push her too much.
Susan's dad had his surgery but there was a little setback. Check out Susan's site for details and send her an encouraging word.
However, being the trooper that I am (yes, troopers can be fat), I have continued my running. Not training-just running. Trying to get back into a nice consistent pattern. I've been running without my watch and just enjoying the scenery . . . kids out playing, families strolling the street, people walking their dogs. It's amazing how so many people refuse to be outdoors until it gets warm weather.
WARNING- SOAPBOX MOMENT: kids and outdoors. What is it with kids now days that they stay glued to the computer or video games? I understand parents not wanting their kids napped by the boogie man, but in a neighborhood loaded with kids and at least a few adults out in the yards, I think safety is somewhat covered. I sadly chuckle to myself as I run by houses with basketball goals that never get used except by want-to-be middle agers like myself. Parents spend enormous amounts of money on b'ball goals, swing sets, forts, play sets, trampolines, etc. and I never, ever see kids using them. Our generation needs to become more responsible and teach those behind us how to use their bodies. I will now step off my soapbox.
I ran Saturday and Monday. Sunday afternoon was an active day . . . I was at Susan's after church and was in charge of the girls. After allowing some TV (I am not a hypocrite . . . Florida was playing Oregon on TV!), we moved to outdoor activities. One of E's friends came over and we had a soccer match that lasted about 40 minutes. It ended up a 4-4 tie. After that, we shot some hoops and had a nice game of HORSE. After that, it was time for a lesson . . . Susan has been trying to get E off her training wheels and we decided that Sunday was as good a day as any. I don't think I have ever worked so hard in all my life! I wanted to teach her the way my mom and dad taught me-tie a rope from the bike to the car bumper and just take off! (kidding). E is a good climber/player but I guess I am unaccustomed to the eye-hand co-ordination of a 7 year old. We spent 20 or 30 minutes just getting her used to the handlebars and balancing at the same time. I kept my hand on the back of the seat but let her have the handlebars. Pretty funny . . . like watching a drunk stagger home. However, she was a trooper and kept trying and eventually got where she could hold a straight line and turn the bike around in the street. After she got that down, I started pushing her a little faster and worked on her peddling and looking forward. Why she wanted to stop peddling and look at the ground is beyond me but we finally got it through to her that she had to peddle if she didn't want to fall. After a few more passes up and down the street, I secretly took my hand off the seat but jogged along beside her . . . she was doing fine until she realized she was doing it herself. Bottom line is that after an hour, she was able to ride by herself but interest was fading and though Susan wanted to keep up the lesson, I thought it time to stop (my back was hurting and I was sweating like a pig!). Now that she has a taste of it, I think that she will be wanting more, as long as we don't push her too much.
Susan's dad had his surgery but there was a little setback. Check out Susan's site for details and send her an encouraging word.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Where has Spring gone?
It seems that everytime I turn around, another week or two has passed. It just seems a few days ago when I was running in 30 degree weather and looking forward to 60s and 70s of Springtime. It's been mid-70s to lower 80s for the last couple of weeks. It may be a hot summer!
Yes . . . I have not been posting. No, I have not quit running. I've been doing 4, 5, 6 milers as time permits. Trying to keep it at 4 days a week if possible. I was in Vidalia this week and skipped a mid-week run. However, the big push at work is over and hopefully I'll have time to get back to full regimen of running and back on my bike as well.
Don't forget that Susan's dad is having surgery today and keep her and her family in your prayers.
Yes . . . I have not been posting. No, I have not quit running. I've been doing 4, 5, 6 milers as time permits. Trying to keep it at 4 days a week if possible. I was in Vidalia this week and skipped a mid-week run. However, the big push at work is over and hopefully I'll have time to get back to full regimen of running and back on my bike as well.
Don't forget that Susan's dad is having surgery today and keep her and her family in your prayers.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Monday night
Hey all . . . it is late Monday night. Late for me is anything past 9:00. I'm a fuddy duddy. Can't help it. It's not that I need a lot of sleep. I just like to wake up without an alarm clock . . . ususally between 5 and 5:30. I do let me hair down (figuratively speaking) and stay up till 10:30 sometimes but only on the rare occassion when Susan and I have a late movie or late dinner.
I witnessed the birthday party (go see Susan's site) . . . a bunch of little girls ice skating. Actually, more like dragging themselves along the wall with ice skates on. Regardless, they had fun and that's all that counts. Susan wanted to put on skates but I said no for several reasons . . . First, I had worked on Saturday and Sunday and was tired; and two, I didn't want to risk breaking anything a week before my trip to Hilton Head. Actually, I guess it is our trip. I'm taking Susan and the girls with me. Yes, I will behave and no, we are not setting a bad example for the girls. We have "proper" arrangements.
Running. Oh yeah, that's sort of what this site is about. Last week I ran 4 miles on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. First time in a while that I ran my normal schedule. Granted, my miles were pitiful but I got the schedule back. Work, as you know, has been a royal pain in the A$$. I am not using dollar signs because I am making lots of money! I am finally able to slow down a bit and get back into a routine. I ran 4 miles tonight and I am planning on 5 or 6 tomorrow night.
Will write more later this week before the trip.
I witnessed the birthday party (go see Susan's site) . . . a bunch of little girls ice skating. Actually, more like dragging themselves along the wall with ice skates on. Regardless, they had fun and that's all that counts. Susan wanted to put on skates but I said no for several reasons . . . First, I had worked on Saturday and Sunday and was tired; and two, I didn't want to risk breaking anything a week before my trip to Hilton Head. Actually, I guess it is our trip. I'm taking Susan and the girls with me. Yes, I will behave and no, we are not setting a bad example for the girls. We have "proper" arrangements.
Running. Oh yeah, that's sort of what this site is about. Last week I ran 4 miles on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. First time in a while that I ran my normal schedule. Granted, my miles were pitiful but I got the schedule back. Work, as you know, has been a royal pain in the A$$. I am not using dollar signs because I am making lots of money! I am finally able to slow down a bit and get back into a routine. I ran 4 miles tonight and I am planning on 5 or 6 tomorrow night.
Will write more later this week before the trip.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Where have you gone, Jimmy boy?
I've heard this several times over the last couple of weeks. To be honest, I have no idea where I have gone. Fortunately, that means that I have no memory of it; therefore, the pain is negligible. Work and life. Life and work. Right now I think they are the same thing. This is not a good thing. I know that it strains me and I am certain it is straining Susan, and for that, I am sorry. Sometimes I get too caught up in work and I tend to drop all things to focus on getting my job done. It's like some kind of weird obsessive disorder. Go figure. The good thing is that when I do have time on my hands, I focus this same strange disorder on running and other things that are actually more important.
As you know, I've been working some longer than usual hours under some not so good circumstances. Weird place I work. Enough about that. However, know that my running hours have been diminished to fit into my employer's schedule and not mine. I've been able to get in some shorter runs . . . 4 miles here, 6 miles there. That kind of thing but no real consistent training regimen. Maybe after another week or so.
I did manage to get a 4 miler in Saturday morning and then went for a run with Susan Saturday afternoon before our big shindig (see Susan's site and further down into this post). As usual, I let Susan set the pace for my second run of the day and I also let her pick the route. We felt adventurous so Susan took me on the run from hell. I like hills. Despite my size and lack of speed, I normally do a lot of passing on uphill climbs. The worse part of hills are the down hills. I just have trouble negotiating them . . . . do I remain parallel to the surface as some experts suggest? This just seems to make me build up more speed which will ultimately lead me crashing through someone's fence or jersey barrier. Not a big fan of fast down hill runs. Or should I lean back, squat and keep my knees bent as other experts suggest? This tends to be easier on the legs but I feel so goofy and kids are always pointing at me and laughing. Anyway, the hills that Susan took me on were so bad that it didn't matter what I did on the the down hill side because the uphill side was such a killer! Best as I can tell we did a 3 1/2 mile loop. And though I know it is impossible on a loop route, it felt that we ran uphill more than down hill.
I ran tonight for 4 miles and my legs still felt the hills. The first mile was a slow shuffle but after that I started getting things into order and managed to enjoy myself briefly for the remaining three miles.
On a sad note, my running buddy Marc "Animal" had his mother pass away today in Atlanta. Don't know details yet other than the funeral will be later this week. Not sure if I'll be able to run over there with work the way it is.
On a social note, Susan and I had fun at the Gala last Saturday night. We took many pictures. Unfortunately, most of them cannot be posted since we would probably risk being thrown in prison for years if they were actually revealed . . . . just kidding. We ate dinner at a beautiful historic home that had been restored and is on the historic register in Alabama. The host couple were very gracious and inviting. We picked this location because a lot of Susan's bunko friends were going to this dinner. Yes, bunko. The non-existent game where ladies get together, drink wine, complain about their men, and wish they had much better men. Anyway, Susan's friends were there and we all had a good time. After dinner, we all drive to Birmingham Country Club for a silent auction and dancing. This is all to raise money, via the Service Guild, for the Bell Center-a preschool for special needs children. A very good cause which I have been involved with in the past. Normally, I spend a few dollars at the silent auction but did not this year. It was very crowded at the club and after a few dives into the chocolate fountain with assorted fruits (pineapple, strawberries, etc. Not weird people), we decided to call it an evening. I am attaching a few photos that meet the definition of legal.
Susan and I at dinner. A little salad . . . a little entree. Believe it or not, Susan was wanting a cheeseburger and fries by 10 o'clock that night!
Susan (back center) with some of her bunko friends and one stray husband.
Susan and I holding up the fireplace. Or is that the other way around? Handsome couple? Give us your vote!
As you know, I've been working some longer than usual hours under some not so good circumstances. Weird place I work. Enough about that. However, know that my running hours have been diminished to fit into my employer's schedule and not mine. I've been able to get in some shorter runs . . . 4 miles here, 6 miles there. That kind of thing but no real consistent training regimen. Maybe after another week or so.
I did manage to get a 4 miler in Saturday morning and then went for a run with Susan Saturday afternoon before our big shindig (see Susan's site and further down into this post). As usual, I let Susan set the pace for my second run of the day and I also let her pick the route. We felt adventurous so Susan took me on the run from hell. I like hills. Despite my size and lack of speed, I normally do a lot of passing on uphill climbs. The worse part of hills are the down hills. I just have trouble negotiating them . . . . do I remain parallel to the surface as some experts suggest? This just seems to make me build up more speed which will ultimately lead me crashing through someone's fence or jersey barrier. Not a big fan of fast down hill runs. Or should I lean back, squat and keep my knees bent as other experts suggest? This tends to be easier on the legs but I feel so goofy and kids are always pointing at me and laughing. Anyway, the hills that Susan took me on were so bad that it didn't matter what I did on the the down hill side because the uphill side was such a killer! Best as I can tell we did a 3 1/2 mile loop. And though I know it is impossible on a loop route, it felt that we ran uphill more than down hill.
I ran tonight for 4 miles and my legs still felt the hills. The first mile was a slow shuffle but after that I started getting things into order and managed to enjoy myself briefly for the remaining three miles.
On a sad note, my running buddy Marc "Animal" had his mother pass away today in Atlanta. Don't know details yet other than the funeral will be later this week. Not sure if I'll be able to run over there with work the way it is.
On a social note, Susan and I had fun at the Gala last Saturday night. We took many pictures. Unfortunately, most of them cannot be posted since we would probably risk being thrown in prison for years if they were actually revealed . . . . just kidding. We ate dinner at a beautiful historic home that had been restored and is on the historic register in Alabama. The host couple were very gracious and inviting. We picked this location because a lot of Susan's bunko friends were going to this dinner. Yes, bunko. The non-existent game where ladies get together, drink wine, complain about their men, and wish they had much better men. Anyway, Susan's friends were there and we all had a good time. After dinner, we all drive to Birmingham Country Club for a silent auction and dancing. This is all to raise money, via the Service Guild, for the Bell Center-a preschool for special needs children. A very good cause which I have been involved with in the past. Normally, I spend a few dollars at the silent auction but did not this year. It was very crowded at the club and after a few dives into the chocolate fountain with assorted fruits (pineapple, strawberries, etc. Not weird people), we decided to call it an evening. I am attaching a few photos that meet the definition of legal.
Susan and I at dinner. A little salad . . . a little entree. Believe it or not, Susan was wanting a cheeseburger and fries by 10 o'clock that night!
Susan (back center) with some of her bunko friends and one stray husband.
Susan and I holding up the fireplace. Or is that the other way around? Handsome couple? Give us your vote!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
As you can tell, I have not titled this post. I have not been able to come up with anything appropriate to name it, so to honor my lack of enthusiasm, I will not name the post!
I have been running a little bit, here and there, after the Mercedes. This is not a post race funk. Rather it is a work funk. Some of us have been working some long hours for the last couple of months. I was in Vidalia, GA last week and worked some long hours under some not so nice conditions. Heading back down to Vidalia on Thursday morning. Things just sort of start grinding on you, you know what I mean? An earlier post I had mentioned that I am Dilbert. Let's take it a step further . . . . remember seeing the commercials where the man is working with a bunch of chimpanzees? Yep-that's my office. I love my work. I love what I do. If we could just keep management and executives from making decisions, we'd all be better off. Example: exec #1 says "Hey, we can outsource some of the major capital work and reduce staff". Exec #2 says "BRILLIANT". Jim and remaining co-workers not only try to do what is left of their work and the work that fellow fallen staff has left behind. We are also directed to help the company that we have outsourced to. Would some of you accounting types or executives out there please explain to me how this works!!!! Anyway. I still have tons of MY work to do between now and mid-April. Additionally, I am getting phone calls on an almost dailey basis from the company that took over our big jobs asking for help. If I had made this kind of decision, I'd have to fire myself.
I will keep on plodding. Figuratively and literally.
I am hoping to start back to concentrating on running. Susan wants to try to make an effort at the Nashville Music City Half. I guess we're going to buckle down and start training for it.
I have been running a little bit, here and there, after the Mercedes. This is not a post race funk. Rather it is a work funk. Some of us have been working some long hours for the last couple of months. I was in Vidalia, GA last week and worked some long hours under some not so nice conditions. Heading back down to Vidalia on Thursday morning. Things just sort of start grinding on you, you know what I mean? An earlier post I had mentioned that I am Dilbert. Let's take it a step further . . . . remember seeing the commercials where the man is working with a bunch of chimpanzees? Yep-that's my office. I love my work. I love what I do. If we could just keep management and executives from making decisions, we'd all be better off. Example: exec #1 says "Hey, we can outsource some of the major capital work and reduce staff". Exec #2 says "BRILLIANT". Jim and remaining co-workers not only try to do what is left of their work and the work that fellow fallen staff has left behind. We are also directed to help the company that we have outsourced to. Would some of you accounting types or executives out there please explain to me how this works!!!! Anyway. I still have tons of MY work to do between now and mid-April. Additionally, I am getting phone calls on an almost dailey basis from the company that took over our big jobs asking for help. If I had made this kind of decision, I'd have to fire myself.
I will keep on plodding. Figuratively and literally.
I am hoping to start back to concentrating on running. Susan wants to try to make an effort at the Nashville Music City Half. I guess we're going to buckle down and start training for it.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Mercedes is over
Good morning to all. Yep, our local race, Mercedes Marathon, is in the books. This race gets better each year and you really need to try to make it over here the first week in Feb. The expo is decent, the bands are good, the party atmosphere is superb, the give aways and freebies are like that of a big time race. The half and full race courses are pretty nice and scenic, except for the couple of miles that run through parts of downtown. It is a hilly course and it will challenge you. There will not be many PRs to be had here but it is fun. Go check it out . . . www.mercedesmarathon.com.
If you've been following the story, Susan and I had been planning on running the half over the last couple of months and training was going okay. However, about two weeks ago, we both came down with a headcold that just seemed to hang on. Bottom line is that I didn't do any runs over 10 the last several weeks and Susan did less than that. In fact, my guess is that she didn't run more than 10 miles the last two weeks. Needless to say, I was apprehensive that she could pull it off. She admitted that she was a little nervous about it and that she would walk if she needed to do so. I had planned from early on that I would run with her and be her support team. Knowing that she was going to be running a slower pace than my racing pace, I felt confident that I could help her get through her second half-marathon.
It started off a cold day. It was clear and very slight breeze. The temp was 27 at the start but it was supposed to warm up during day. Unfortunately, with the race starting at 7:00, there wouldn't be much warming up in the morning hours. It is always funny to see how people are overdressed, even at 27 degrees. I always try to remember the rule . . . you should not be comfortable when you start. I wore shorts, a lightweight cool max long sleeve shirt, my wind vest, gloves and ear band. Susan wore (not so tight) tights, a lightweight cool max long sleeve and a running jacket, gloves and ear band. Of course we stood around in our home made garbage bag ponchos waiting for the start but stripped those off a minute before the race started.
Mercedes starts and ends in Linn Park, a nice park downtown, near one of the civic auditoriums. The first couple of miles is in the downtown business district which is constantly undergoing changes. Miles 3 thru 5 run through the southern part of the downtown. This part takes you through the UAB campus and amongst student housing. Not a wild party campus so you really don't know that you're running through it. The first challenge is mile 5-6. This is a nice mile long climb up a road called Greensprings Highway. Great view of the city from the top. This is the first crossing of Red Mountain. You see lots of people walking this stretch. I told Susan that our goal was to run it, even at a slower pace. We didn't want to give up more than a minute to our average pace. Miles 6 thru 8 beat you up pretty good. They go due east an Valley road. The road runs parallel to the mountain along the side of the mountain. There are continuous rolling hills and mounds and you never get to run any flat land through here. Nice scenary but you really have to focus to keep your pace. Mile 8-9 flattens out and lets your legs get a break before heading back over the mountain into downtown. Mile 9-10 is a nice steep climb back over the mountain. Again, you see lots of walkers and lots of Gu and E-Gel packs along the road. Mile 10-11 is tough for me, though most people love this stretch. It is a very scenic, fast downhill run back into downtown. I hate it because I am not a good downhill runner. I'd rather run up than down. Beats my legs up too bad. Once you hit mile 11, it is pretty much flat except for a few bumps in the downtown area. 11-12 is running west for a mile through a commercial district. The local hashers have rest stop here and if you want a donut and beer for a rest stop, this is the place to be. At mile 12, you turn north into the business district and run almost straight back into the park.
Here's our splits. Remember, this was slow since we had lost training over the last few weeks. However, our goal was to finish with a steady pace and have fun.
Mile 1- 10:01 (I think this was a short mile)
Mile 2- 13:12 (I think this was the part of mile 1 that was missing)
Mile 3- 11:55
Mile 4- 12:33 (Susan was taking off her jacket and repinning her number)
Mile 5- 12:16
Mile 6- 12:50 (the long uphill climb . . . felt good about not giving away too much)
Mile 7- 12:02
Mile 8- 11:59
Mile 9- 11:35 (the nice little flat stretch)
Mile 10- 12:15 (pretty nice pace since it is a mile climb)
Mile 11- 10:57 (down hill and I'm talking to Susan telling her now is the time to start tweaking it up)
Mile 12- 10:52 (She's hurting but really wanting to finish strong. Very proud of her and her effort)
Mile 13- 10:18 (It is here that I discover that Susan has been holding back on me. The girl started running like someone said "free ice cream")
Finished the last 0.1 miles in under a minute.
Here's a few photos we took along the way-
If you ever see this in a race, you must be moving slow. This is what I look like as I crush the competition!
Susan grabbed the camera from me decided to take a picture of me after a water break. I love my bright colors!
This is the downhill section between mile 10 and 11. Way too easy!
This is about mile 11 1/2. That is Susan watching the marathon winner blowing by us.
Hey! We finished and survived. 13.1 mile. 2:33 and change. It is time to go to the party for BBQ and beverages! See you next year!
If you've been following the story, Susan and I had been planning on running the half over the last couple of months and training was going okay. However, about two weeks ago, we both came down with a headcold that just seemed to hang on. Bottom line is that I didn't do any runs over 10 the last several weeks and Susan did less than that. In fact, my guess is that she didn't run more than 10 miles the last two weeks. Needless to say, I was apprehensive that she could pull it off. She admitted that she was a little nervous about it and that she would walk if she needed to do so. I had planned from early on that I would run with her and be her support team. Knowing that she was going to be running a slower pace than my racing pace, I felt confident that I could help her get through her second half-marathon.
It started off a cold day. It was clear and very slight breeze. The temp was 27 at the start but it was supposed to warm up during day. Unfortunately, with the race starting at 7:00, there wouldn't be much warming up in the morning hours. It is always funny to see how people are overdressed, even at 27 degrees. I always try to remember the rule . . . you should not be comfortable when you start. I wore shorts, a lightweight cool max long sleeve shirt, my wind vest, gloves and ear band. Susan wore (not so tight) tights, a lightweight cool max long sleeve and a running jacket, gloves and ear band. Of course we stood around in our home made garbage bag ponchos waiting for the start but stripped those off a minute before the race started.
Mercedes starts and ends in Linn Park, a nice park downtown, near one of the civic auditoriums. The first couple of miles is in the downtown business district which is constantly undergoing changes. Miles 3 thru 5 run through the southern part of the downtown. This part takes you through the UAB campus and amongst student housing. Not a wild party campus so you really don't know that you're running through it. The first challenge is mile 5-6. This is a nice mile long climb up a road called Greensprings Highway. Great view of the city from the top. This is the first crossing of Red Mountain. You see lots of people walking this stretch. I told Susan that our goal was to run it, even at a slower pace. We didn't want to give up more than a minute to our average pace. Miles 6 thru 8 beat you up pretty good. They go due east an Valley road. The road runs parallel to the mountain along the side of the mountain. There are continuous rolling hills and mounds and you never get to run any flat land through here. Nice scenary but you really have to focus to keep your pace. Mile 8-9 flattens out and lets your legs get a break before heading back over the mountain into downtown. Mile 9-10 is a nice steep climb back over the mountain. Again, you see lots of walkers and lots of Gu and E-Gel packs along the road. Mile 10-11 is tough for me, though most people love this stretch. It is a very scenic, fast downhill run back into downtown. I hate it because I am not a good downhill runner. I'd rather run up than down. Beats my legs up too bad. Once you hit mile 11, it is pretty much flat except for a few bumps in the downtown area. 11-12 is running west for a mile through a commercial district. The local hashers have rest stop here and if you want a donut and beer for a rest stop, this is the place to be. At mile 12, you turn north into the business district and run almost straight back into the park.
Here's our splits. Remember, this was slow since we had lost training over the last few weeks. However, our goal was to finish with a steady pace and have fun.
Mile 1- 10:01 (I think this was a short mile)
Mile 2- 13:12 (I think this was the part of mile 1 that was missing)
Mile 3- 11:55
Mile 4- 12:33 (Susan was taking off her jacket and repinning her number)
Mile 5- 12:16
Mile 6- 12:50 (the long uphill climb . . . felt good about not giving away too much)
Mile 7- 12:02
Mile 8- 11:59
Mile 9- 11:35 (the nice little flat stretch)
Mile 10- 12:15 (pretty nice pace since it is a mile climb)
Mile 11- 10:57 (down hill and I'm talking to Susan telling her now is the time to start tweaking it up)
Mile 12- 10:52 (She's hurting but really wanting to finish strong. Very proud of her and her effort)
Mile 13- 10:18 (It is here that I discover that Susan has been holding back on me. The girl started running like someone said "free ice cream")
Finished the last 0.1 miles in under a minute.
Here's a few photos we took along the way-
Susan just getting out of the car at 6:00. I think she was still asleep. We have an hour kill. Not long when you're standing in line at a port o let.
Susan wasting time monkeying around with here race number. I had given her a belt to put her number on but she wanted to pin it to her jacket. This is what happens when you take your jacket off!
The race number is fixed and jacket it tied around the waist. She is smiling now but she hasn't run up Greensprings yet!!!
Yes, I took all the photos on the run.
Running past the walkers coming up the mountain is a confidence builder. We are near the top and she is still smiling. It is hard to tell from the photo but this is the long uphill climb. She just had to tell someone that she made it up the hill. Yes-she is on my cell phone!
The west end of an east bound Susan
This is the downhill section between mile 10 and 11. Way too easy!
This is about mile 11 1/2. That is Susan watching the marathon winner blowing by us.
Hey! We finished and survived. 13.1 mile. 2:33 and change. It is time to go to the party for BBQ and beverages! See you next year!
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Chaos
CHAOS. I detest it. I am a notorious ISTJ type personality. Look it up if you don't know what it means. Sometimes I have trends that run contrary to the classis ISTJ but everytime I take the test, it is the same . . . ISTJ. My hero is Inspector Javert (Les Miserables). Look that up if you don't know the reference. Bottom line is I like order. I LOVE ORDER. My life has been anything but over the last several weeks and I am beside myself trying to reach balance. Almost all my chaos stems from work . . . . we go through a crunch time, not unlike accountants at tax time, each spring as our deadlines (executives prefer to call them milestones) close in on us. In typical Dilbert "mis"management world there are two things with a milestone . . . One, I make it. That means somebody who has no clue what I do will make a big bonus off of my efforts which will result in my getting more work assigned since I did such a "good" job. Two, I miss it. Our latest batch of self centered ladder climbers . . . errr, I mean executives, have threatened all employees who miss milestones with some type of punishment up to and including termination. Have I told you how much I love my job? I don't mind the occassional push to get a job out the door but when it becomes routine to work 10-12 hour days and one day a weekend, it becomes a little too stressful. Okay . . . venting complete.
I ran 4 miles on Monday . . . . still feeling sluggish from the cold.
I ran 5 miles tonight and felt much better, especially after the first mile and coughing up something that did not belong in my lungs! If a cold makes me feel this way, I cannot imagine how smokers have got to feel.
It is just a few days away from Mercedes Marathon and I know I can run 13 . . . No problem. I am concerned for Susan (whom I am running with). She's been skipping runs the last week and a half because of a cold. It was going to be work for her had we kept up her training but now I think it will be a nice slow training run. But that is okay. I'm looking forward to it.
wish all a nice weekend and watch out for the sleet!
I ran 4 miles on Monday . . . . still feeling sluggish from the cold.
I ran 5 miles tonight and felt much better, especially after the first mile and coughing up something that did not belong in my lungs! If a cold makes me feel this way, I cannot imagine how smokers have got to feel.
It is just a few days away from Mercedes Marathon and I know I can run 13 . . . No problem. I am concerned for Susan (whom I am running with). She's been skipping runs the last week and a half because of a cold. It was going to be work for her had we kept up her training but now I think it will be a nice slow training run. But that is okay. I'm looking forward to it.
wish all a nice weekend and watch out for the sleet!
Monday, February 05, 2007
Aqualung, Superbowl, and Brussel Sprouts (long post)
"Snot is running down his nose. Greasy fingers smearing shabby clothes." For those of you over the age of 40, you know where those words come from. Yep . . . that was me running yesterday. I have not quite been able to shake this stupid head cold. I know that the experts say it is okay to run when you don't have a fever but they seem to overlook the fact that I have 5 pounds of the slimey stuff in my head. Yuck. To top it off, I have never been very good at firing of "rockets" . . . some of you chuckle because you know what I'm talking about. I'm more of a snort and spit or just use the shirt kind of guy. I know-very disgusting subject. I have not been able to run the way I have wanted to the last few days. I only did 3 miles Friday night . . . just too fatigued from work and the cold. I didn't have the "spririt". Yesterday, Susan and I had planned on running 10 or 12 miles in preparation of next week's half-marathon. We went to church, trying to encourage each other about the run we were going to be doing afterwards. We were about as excited as a I get over eating brussel sprouts (more on that later). The bottom line is that Susan hasn't been feeling well either. Same symptons. She felt it would be better to totally skip the run. Okay-now I'm on my own and my encouragement level just hit the dumps. I decided to suck it up. I went home, changed into running clothes, stretched, blew the nose several times and headed out the door with every intention of doing a ten miler. The temperature was in the 50s and the sun was shining-a perfect day for a run. Somebody forgot to tell my cold that . . . my head was pounding (sinuses?), my nose was flowing, the mind was wandering and weak. I got in 4 miles and just quit. Yes, I JUST QUIT. I couldn't breathe, my feet were just slapping the pavement and I did not feel like a runner. I felt like a giant germ wandering aimlessly down the road. I did take Kelsey (my Cairn Terrier) for a little jog afterwards, which she enjoyed thouroughly. I showered up and headed back to Susan's for the Super Bowl.
Ah yes, Super Bowl. That great American tradition where most of America sits on the sofa, eats cheese dip, drinks beer and watches a bunch of overpaid men play football. Don't get me wrong. I believe in market economics and if the market supports the salaries, so be it. Actually, football isn't near as bad as baseball players . . . Can you imagine getting paid thousands of dollars for every time you stepped up to the plate. This is a GAME! At least tennis and golf are performance based . . . . you do good, you earn money. You do bad, you end up working selling shoes.
Sorry . . . that is a whole other rant. Back to the Super Bowl at Susan's. We invited a friend over-his name is Tom and he checks out my blog on occasion-Hi Tom. I got over there around 3:30 . . . just in time to start making my CHEESE DIP! Not just ordinary cheese dip. This is EXTRA FATTENING! As with any good fattening dip you start with Velveeta (have you ever read the box? It says "cheese product"). To the 1 1/2 lbs of cheese product add 1 large can of black beans, 2 cans of Rotel (hot is better), a small can of diced chillis, and a pound of ground beef that has been prepped with taco seasoning. Throw it all in a crockpot, drink a beverage of your choice and come back an hour later. Presto! Heart attack in a crock pot! Yummy. Tom got there around 5 ish so we could share our cheese product with him.
The dip was not enough, so Susan made loaf of meat (meat loaf). Before you ridicule me, think about it . . . do you say bread loaf? I think not. She used a recipe from Southern Living that was really good. She also made mashed potatoes. That would have been a fine meal for halftime. HOWEVER, she felt that we needed a vegetable. C'mon . . . this is the SuperBowl. Meat, Potatoes, Cheese product dip, beverage of your choice. Who needs stinking vegetables? If you have made it this far (I know this is a long post) you have probably guessed her vegetable of choice-BRUSSEL SPROUTS. Have I ever told you how much I dislike them. I love veggies and fruit and I usually have a pretty good love affair with most. There is just something about those ugly little green things that just don't seem right. It's not the taste. It is a typical green vegetable. It's not the texture . . . I eat all kinds of food. Maybe I'm adverse to eating something the size of a testicle or eyeball. Whatever it is, I DO NOT LIKE THEM. Tom doesn't like 'em. MA doesn't like 'em. E doesn't like 'em. Why on earth Susan made them I don't know. Of course, me being me, I felt it my duty. No, my obligation to eat some of the nasty little buggers. The look on Tom's face when I dipped up four of the lovelies was something to behold-the blank stare was priceless. Tom, being a nice guy and not wanting to hurt Susan's feelings, got one. Of course, after Tom and I got our brussel sprouts, the pressure was on MA. She wouldn't succumb easily. After seeing Tom and I making faces while chewing on them, she thought it was funny and she wanted to make faces. We told her the best way to make an ugly face was to eat a brussel sprout. Believe it or not, she did! Good for MA! E wasn't having any part of it. She didn't even want the loaf of meat. 6 year olds seem to be exempt from the social rules that structure our lives and make us a civil society. If we could all just cross our arms and shake our heads when something we don't like passes our way!
Bottom line is that we ate well and enjoyed the ball game. I really didn't have a dog in the hunt (good old southern talk) and it was a fun game to watch, though the commercials were a bit of a disappointment.
I am planning on putting in some miles this week before the half. I am feeling better (again) and hope to not have any additional setbacks. Sunday should be interesting. We'll see how Susan does in her half. First one she's run in several years. If it is not raining, I am planning on taking a camera on the run with us.
Ah yes, Super Bowl. That great American tradition where most of America sits on the sofa, eats cheese dip, drinks beer and watches a bunch of overpaid men play football. Don't get me wrong. I believe in market economics and if the market supports the salaries, so be it. Actually, football isn't near as bad as baseball players . . . Can you imagine getting paid thousands of dollars for every time you stepped up to the plate. This is a GAME! At least tennis and golf are performance based . . . . you do good, you earn money. You do bad, you end up working selling shoes.
Sorry . . . that is a whole other rant. Back to the Super Bowl at Susan's. We invited a friend over-his name is Tom and he checks out my blog on occasion-Hi Tom. I got over there around 3:30 . . . just in time to start making my CHEESE DIP! Not just ordinary cheese dip. This is EXTRA FATTENING! As with any good fattening dip you start with Velveeta (have you ever read the box? It says "cheese product"). To the 1 1/2 lbs of cheese product add 1 large can of black beans, 2 cans of Rotel (hot is better), a small can of diced chillis, and a pound of ground beef that has been prepped with taco seasoning. Throw it all in a crockpot, drink a beverage of your choice and come back an hour later. Presto! Heart attack in a crock pot! Yummy. Tom got there around 5 ish so we could share our cheese product with him.
The dip was not enough, so Susan made loaf of meat (meat loaf). Before you ridicule me, think about it . . . do you say bread loaf? I think not. She used a recipe from Southern Living that was really good. She also made mashed potatoes. That would have been a fine meal for halftime. HOWEVER, she felt that we needed a vegetable. C'mon . . . this is the SuperBowl. Meat, Potatoes, Cheese product dip, beverage of your choice. Who needs stinking vegetables? If you have made it this far (I know this is a long post) you have probably guessed her vegetable of choice-BRUSSEL SPROUTS. Have I ever told you how much I dislike them. I love veggies and fruit and I usually have a pretty good love affair with most. There is just something about those ugly little green things that just don't seem right. It's not the taste. It is a typical green vegetable. It's not the texture . . . I eat all kinds of food. Maybe I'm adverse to eating something the size of a testicle or eyeball. Whatever it is, I DO NOT LIKE THEM. Tom doesn't like 'em. MA doesn't like 'em. E doesn't like 'em. Why on earth Susan made them I don't know. Of course, me being me, I felt it my duty. No, my obligation to eat some of the nasty little buggers. The look on Tom's face when I dipped up four of the lovelies was something to behold-the blank stare was priceless. Tom, being a nice guy and not wanting to hurt Susan's feelings, got one. Of course, after Tom and I got our brussel sprouts, the pressure was on MA. She wouldn't succumb easily. After seeing Tom and I making faces while chewing on them, she thought it was funny and she wanted to make faces. We told her the best way to make an ugly face was to eat a brussel sprout. Believe it or not, she did! Good for MA! E wasn't having any part of it. She didn't even want the loaf of meat. 6 year olds seem to be exempt from the social rules that structure our lives and make us a civil society. If we could all just cross our arms and shake our heads when something we don't like passes our way!
Bottom line is that we ate well and enjoyed the ball game. I really didn't have a dog in the hunt (good old southern talk) and it was a fun game to watch, though the commercials were a bit of a disappointment.
I am planning on putting in some miles this week before the half. I am feeling better (again) and hope to not have any additional setbacks. Sunday should be interesting. We'll see how Susan does in her half. First one she's run in several years. If it is not raining, I am planning on taking a camera on the run with us.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Feeling better
Yep . . . it must have just been a head cold. It is starting to subside and I predict full recovery by the end of the week (unless I do something really stupid which I am sometimes prone to do).
I did a good hard 4 miler Wednesday afternoon. Susan invited me over for dinner so I took my running clothes over after work. Susan didn't run but her oldest daughter, MA, rode her bike with my while I ran. It is hard to explain to a 10 year old that we're going to a "medium effort". It worked out good though. I ran much harder than expected . . . I didn't have a watch but based on effort and the amount of heavy breathing and sweat in 40 degree weather, I'd guess we were turning in the low 8 minute range.
I am going to run this afternoon after work and I think MA is wanting to ride her bike again. I have to work Saturday so I am moving my long run to Sunday afternoon. Susan and I are planning on a hilly 10 or 12 miler Sunday after church. This should help us rid ourselves of any guilt over eating cheese dip during the SuperBowl!
Have a great weekend.
I did a good hard 4 miler Wednesday afternoon. Susan invited me over for dinner so I took my running clothes over after work. Susan didn't run but her oldest daughter, MA, rode her bike with my while I ran. It is hard to explain to a 10 year old that we're going to a "medium effort". It worked out good though. I ran much harder than expected . . . I didn't have a watch but based on effort and the amount of heavy breathing and sweat in 40 degree weather, I'd guess we were turning in the low 8 minute range.
I am going to run this afternoon after work and I think MA is wanting to ride her bike again. I have to work Saturday so I am moving my long run to Sunday afternoon. Susan and I are planning on a hilly 10 or 12 miler Sunday after church. This should help us rid ourselves of any guilt over eating cheese dip during the SuperBowl!
Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
OKAY . . . Who did it?
That's what I want to know . . . Who did it?
It is a head cold. Sore throat. Sniffles.
I feel fine but it always a pain having to deal with this kind of stuff. I'm doubling up on my vitamin C, doubling up on my hand washing, and I am not drinking out of my dogs bowl anymore!
Monday night I went out after dark and ran a nice hard 5 miler. No calf pain-Yippeee! Also did a light workout. Have to get back into my pattern of lifting on Mondays and Thursdays. I am also going to have to start using my trainer to start getting ready for biking season. I would really be set if I could just get my employer to pay me to train instead of work. Doubt that is going to happen!
BTW . . . did you notice that I am posting at 5:30 am? I've been in the office for about 45 minutes already. I got a call at 4:00 am from the plant with some questions so I decided to come on in. I love my job.
It is a head cold. Sore throat. Sniffles.
I feel fine but it always a pain having to deal with this kind of stuff. I'm doubling up on my vitamin C, doubling up on my hand washing, and I am not drinking out of my dogs bowl anymore!
Monday night I went out after dark and ran a nice hard 5 miler. No calf pain-Yippeee! Also did a light workout. Have to get back into my pattern of lifting on Mondays and Thursdays. I am also going to have to start using my trainer to start getting ready for biking season. I would really be set if I could just get my employer to pay me to train instead of work. Doubt that is going to happen!
BTW . . . did you notice that I am posting at 5:30 am? I've been in the office for about 45 minutes already. I got a call at 4:00 am from the plant with some questions so I decided to come on in. I love my job.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
two weeks away
Yep . . . two weeks until Mercedes marathon. Or half-marathong for Susan and me.
The weekend is over and I am about to head to bed. It's been a somewhat busy weekend and I am ready to crash.
I didn't get in the miles that I wanted to this weekend but I did get in a little bit. Saturday morning I got in 4 miles. I had wanted to do 5 but I sort of slept in and was running behind schedule. I know that 8 1/2 or 9 minutes shouldn't make that big a difference but I really did cut it that close. I ran sans watch . . . a practice that I am starting to find liberating. I have so many old timers tell me to run just to run. I think that I may be starting to understand. I still want to quantify and measure stuff but I am slowly learning to loosen my grip up a little bit.
After the morning run, I went to MA's soccer game and then on to E's basketball game. Afterwards, I came home for a little bit to do some chores and then headed back over to Susan's to try to get in a 10 miler. We were meeting some friends for dinner and canasta so we were working against the clock. We got a later start than we wanted and weather was moving in so we decided to do a hard, hilly 6 miler instead. We ran an old loop that I used to run years ago and it is always a good test of stamina since it is very hilly. We started off the first mile on a nice flat wooded trail. After the first mile, we had a gradually continuous climb of about a mile. The third mile are some nice rollers that took us into one of the local villages. Mile 3 was sort of bizarre . . . Susan was sort of chatty. Nothing wrong with it and I enjoy talking with her but she was wound up. I could tell that she was concentrating more on talking than running and our pace was bouncing all over the place. I mentioned it to her and told her that she would have to focus when we were running the half in a couple of weeks. At the end of 3 miles, there is a Shell station that always keeps the restrooms very clean and keeps out several coolers of fresh water and cups for runners. If you're ever in Birmingham and need gas, go to the Shell station in Cresline Village and support the owner. He has done this for the running community for years and we try to support him when we can. After a brief water stop, we started on the backside of the loop back to the car. I had started a very light sprinkling . . . not enough to get wet but enough to let us know that it was coming. Susan again was very chatty on mile 4. Mile 4 is sort of tough . . . it is rollers but a net climb overall. I was holding a steady pace and she would fall back and catch up and then move in front and then fall back again . . . you know . . . . just not focusing on the running, which is okay. I mentioned her attention to detail (hoping not to hurt her feelings) and that she could not do this during the race. She seemed to settle down and focus after that. Mile 5 has one BIG hill and then is all down hill into the next village. Susan did very well with the hill. The last time we ran this loop she walked THE HILL. This time around, we had a nice slow climbing pace and never broke our running stride. Yeah, Susan! Either I peed her off or she really got focused because on the down hill side, she took off. I told her that we still had over a mile to go but she was already 30 feet in front of me. I let her set the pace and tried to stay off her shoulder and behind to let her do her thing. My guess is we turned a half mile in under 4:30. Very fast for Susan. Once in the village, it is about a mile back to the car. By this time it was a little heavier rain and we were starting to feel the urgency to get back to the car before the bottom fell out. The great thing about this last mile is that the majority of it is on a trail and is close to level. The footing isn't great since it runs right along a creek bank and the slippery dirt and rocks didn't help. Fortunately, neither of us fell as Susan felt the need to try to race me back to the car. My guess is that we turned about 8:30 in the last mile. The girl has been holding out on me! I'd speed up and just get beside her and she'd pull ahead a little bit more. We did this four or five times and ended the mile with a nice hard push! We made it back to the car with the rain just starting to really set in. Perfect run, perfect weather, perfect company! Thanks, Susan!
The weekend is over and I am about to head to bed. It's been a somewhat busy weekend and I am ready to crash.
I didn't get in the miles that I wanted to this weekend but I did get in a little bit. Saturday morning I got in 4 miles. I had wanted to do 5 but I sort of slept in and was running behind schedule. I know that 8 1/2 or 9 minutes shouldn't make that big a difference but I really did cut it that close. I ran sans watch . . . a practice that I am starting to find liberating. I have so many old timers tell me to run just to run. I think that I may be starting to understand. I still want to quantify and measure stuff but I am slowly learning to loosen my grip up a little bit.
After the morning run, I went to MA's soccer game and then on to E's basketball game. Afterwards, I came home for a little bit to do some chores and then headed back over to Susan's to try to get in a 10 miler. We were meeting some friends for dinner and canasta so we were working against the clock. We got a later start than we wanted and weather was moving in so we decided to do a hard, hilly 6 miler instead. We ran an old loop that I used to run years ago and it is always a good test of stamina since it is very hilly. We started off the first mile on a nice flat wooded trail. After the first mile, we had a gradually continuous climb of about a mile. The third mile are some nice rollers that took us into one of the local villages. Mile 3 was sort of bizarre . . . Susan was sort of chatty. Nothing wrong with it and I enjoy talking with her but she was wound up. I could tell that she was concentrating more on talking than running and our pace was bouncing all over the place. I mentioned it to her and told her that she would have to focus when we were running the half in a couple of weeks. At the end of 3 miles, there is a Shell station that always keeps the restrooms very clean and keeps out several coolers of fresh water and cups for runners. If you're ever in Birmingham and need gas, go to the Shell station in Cresline Village and support the owner. He has done this for the running community for years and we try to support him when we can. After a brief water stop, we started on the backside of the loop back to the car. I had started a very light sprinkling . . . not enough to get wet but enough to let us know that it was coming. Susan again was very chatty on mile 4. Mile 4 is sort of tough . . . it is rollers but a net climb overall. I was holding a steady pace and she would fall back and catch up and then move in front and then fall back again . . . you know . . . . just not focusing on the running, which is okay. I mentioned her attention to detail (hoping not to hurt her feelings) and that she could not do this during the race. She seemed to settle down and focus after that. Mile 5 has one BIG hill and then is all down hill into the next village. Susan did very well with the hill. The last time we ran this loop she walked THE HILL. This time around, we had a nice slow climbing pace and never broke our running stride. Yeah, Susan! Either I peed her off or she really got focused because on the down hill side, she took off. I told her that we still had over a mile to go but she was already 30 feet in front of me. I let her set the pace and tried to stay off her shoulder and behind to let her do her thing. My guess is we turned a half mile in under 4:30. Very fast for Susan. Once in the village, it is about a mile back to the car. By this time it was a little heavier rain and we were starting to feel the urgency to get back to the car before the bottom fell out. The great thing about this last mile is that the majority of it is on a trail and is close to level. The footing isn't great since it runs right along a creek bank and the slippery dirt and rocks didn't help. Fortunately, neither of us fell as Susan felt the need to try to race me back to the car. My guess is that we turned about 8:30 in the last mile. The girl has been holding out on me! I'd speed up and just get beside her and she'd pull ahead a little bit more. We did this four or five times and ended the mile with a nice hard push! We made it back to the car with the rain just starting to really set in. Perfect run, perfect weather, perfect company! Thanks, Susan!
Friday, January 26, 2007
Friday
Another quick post. We are working like one armed paper hangers at work and it will be that way the next couple of weeks. Going in early and staying late . . . that kind of thing. Not conducive to a good attitude or running, but run I must!
Thursday night I went over to Susan's to get in a run. We ran 3 miles together and she decided to stop since she had run the night before and will be running 10 miles on Saturday. We don't want her to build too quickly because we all know that leads to injury. I ran one additional mile and I pushed it really hard. It was a crystal clear evening and brisk. Perfect for running. The last mile was almost magical. I felt like I was continuously picking up speed. I was wearing my Tikka headlamp and it was funny/wierd to be plowing through the night air, blowing my steamy breath into the beam. A person out walking their dog said they thought I was a locamotive coming around the corner. Not sure it that is good or bad but I thought it was funny.
I am planning on running 5 hard miles Saturday morning and then running an easy 10 with Susan on Saturday afternoon.
Thursday night I went over to Susan's to get in a run. We ran 3 miles together and she decided to stop since she had run the night before and will be running 10 miles on Saturday. We don't want her to build too quickly because we all know that leads to injury. I ran one additional mile and I pushed it really hard. It was a crystal clear evening and brisk. Perfect for running. The last mile was almost magical. I felt like I was continuously picking up speed. I was wearing my Tikka headlamp and it was funny/wierd to be plowing through the night air, blowing my steamy breath into the beam. A person out walking their dog said they thought I was a locamotive coming around the corner. Not sure it that is good or bad but I thought it was funny.
I am planning on running 5 hard miles Saturday morning and then running an easy 10 with Susan on Saturday afternoon.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
just business
A quick post this a.m.
5 miles last night. About 50 degrees. Decent run, no watch.
My mind is spinning . . . work is nuts. Multiple deadlines, unrealistic expectations, all the things that make work a four letter word. I have come to the realization that I am Dilbert.
5 miles last night. About 50 degrees. Decent run, no watch.
My mind is spinning . . . work is nuts. Multiple deadlines, unrealistic expectations, all the things that make work a four letter word. I have come to the realization that I am Dilbert.
Monday, January 22, 2007
What a weekend
Hey all. As the title says, it was a busy weekend. Or at least a busy Saturday. Sunday was more about recovering, but more about that in a minute.
Saturday morning was cold and windy and mostly overcast. Susan and I had planned on a 10 miler. This is strengthening for her since she is doing the Mercedes Half a month from now. I was using it as a recovery run from this stupid calf injury that had kept me down for a couple of weeks. We decided to get a relatively early start since the day was full of activities. We started our run around 8:30. Early enough to fit the plans to the day but late enough to let the temp get into the 30s. As usual when I run with Susan, I let her set the pace. She had not done this distance in several years so she was a little nervous about it but she did about 8 1/2 last week so I knew it shouldn't be too much a problem. Regardless, she picked a pace a little slower than normal just to make sure she could do it. I've done it myself so I completely understood. She wants to run the half marathon at about a 11 minute pace. I told her that I would help her hit that pace. I know that you need to run slower in your training runs, but I wanted her know what the pace feels like since she really doesn't judge her pace that well. The plan was to run a little at a 11 minute pace but to leave some slop in there to allow her to slow to a 12 minute pace. That's what I told . . . we want to finish between 1:50 and 2 hours. We ran the lakshore greenway. 2 1/2 miles out with the wind at our back and we were running a little slower than 11 minute pace. We were feeling good and Susan had taken off her gloves and ear cover. We turned back to the car and realized that we were running into about a 10-15 mph wind. OMG. I was running in shorts and a single coolmax long sleeve and was feeling fine until the wind started whipping my sweaty shirt. Susan put the glove and ear covers back on. To be honest, I could have used some gloves running into the wind. I noticed that our pace had slowed considerably. I checked our split at a half mile marker and told Susan that we had slowed to almost a 13 minute pace. She wasn't crazy about me telling her this but I just wanted her know. She said she was doing her best going into the wind and I just let her set the pace (though I did secretly step it up just a smidge). We got back to the car for water and another 5 mile loop. We decided to head the opposite direction on another trail called Jemison Trail. The reasoning being that we would run another 2 1/2 miles into the wind and then have a tail wind coming home. Susan was up for the change. By the time we finished the first five, the temp had dropped. I grabbed my Asics wind vest and Susan grabbed a windbreaker and off we went for our second five miles. It was pretty uneventful and thankfully the trail is so deep into the trees, the wind really was not a factor. We turned around at 2 1/2 and I told Susan that with 1 mile left we were going to pick it up. She just sort of grunted and looked at me. Not a good sign. However, when I told her it was time to go, she was all game and off we went. Her first 10 miler in years and she turned it in under 2 hours. Bravo to Susan!
After the run, we went back to her house and I split firewood for a couple of hours. Afterwards, we spent the afternoon going to her two girls' basketball games. MA had a really good game. Her team won 25-8 and she had 4 points. She played good defense and a couple of steals. She also did a good job passing the ball and had several assists. MA takes practice serious and it is such a great joy to practice with her. I've been doing passing drills with her and trying to get her to shoot without putting the ball on the floor. Both her goals were shot like that so I sort of gloated! E's game (first and second graders) is a little more lax. They go light on the traveling and double dribbling thing and the kids have fun more than anything else. That age group doesn't quite seem to understand the competitive nature of the game so it is fun watching them run around trying to figure out where to go and what to do. All that being said, E always seems to be having fun and smiling. She took several shots and made 1. She's one of those that practices better than she plays. I'm sure that in a couple of years she's going to be a terror on the court since she is in the first grade and taller than all the second graders.
After that, Susan and I went to dinner with some of her Bunko friends at one of the nicer hotel/conference centers in town . . . Ross Bridge http://www.rossbridgeresort.com/. We met early for cocktails and then had a very nice dinner. I didn't want to horn in since it was all girls but they all insisted that I eat with them. They were celebrating birthdays (5 ladies with birthdays within 30 days of each other) so we turned it into a party. The restaurant was very nice, giving us desserts and allowing us to hog the table for 3 hours. Without going into too much detail, we'll just say that we had fun but we overdid it . . . just a little bit.
Sunday was spent sitting around watching TV. We were supposed to go to my parents but neither of us were up for the visit. It was pouring down rain, cold and we were nursing our "party". We layed on the sofa and watched TV most of the day. We had planned to run 4 or 5 miles but blew it off because of the rain and the headaches (ouch!). I left her house around 4 and spent the rest of the evening washing clothes, napping, and watching the football games.
The good news is that I feel better today and will be trying to get a 6 miler tonight.
Saturday morning was cold and windy and mostly overcast. Susan and I had planned on a 10 miler. This is strengthening for her since she is doing the Mercedes Half a month from now. I was using it as a recovery run from this stupid calf injury that had kept me down for a couple of weeks. We decided to get a relatively early start since the day was full of activities. We started our run around 8:30. Early enough to fit the plans to the day but late enough to let the temp get into the 30s. As usual when I run with Susan, I let her set the pace. She had not done this distance in several years so she was a little nervous about it but she did about 8 1/2 last week so I knew it shouldn't be too much a problem. Regardless, she picked a pace a little slower than normal just to make sure she could do it. I've done it myself so I completely understood. She wants to run the half marathon at about a 11 minute pace. I told her that I would help her hit that pace. I know that you need to run slower in your training runs, but I wanted her know what the pace feels like since she really doesn't judge her pace that well. The plan was to run a little at a 11 minute pace but to leave some slop in there to allow her to slow to a 12 minute pace. That's what I told . . . we want to finish between 1:50 and 2 hours. We ran the lakshore greenway. 2 1/2 miles out with the wind at our back and we were running a little slower than 11 minute pace. We were feeling good and Susan had taken off her gloves and ear cover. We turned back to the car and realized that we were running into about a 10-15 mph wind. OMG. I was running in shorts and a single coolmax long sleeve and was feeling fine until the wind started whipping my sweaty shirt. Susan put the glove and ear covers back on. To be honest, I could have used some gloves running into the wind. I noticed that our pace had slowed considerably. I checked our split at a half mile marker and told Susan that we had slowed to almost a 13 minute pace. She wasn't crazy about me telling her this but I just wanted her know. She said she was doing her best going into the wind and I just let her set the pace (though I did secretly step it up just a smidge). We got back to the car for water and another 5 mile loop. We decided to head the opposite direction on another trail called Jemison Trail. The reasoning being that we would run another 2 1/2 miles into the wind and then have a tail wind coming home. Susan was up for the change. By the time we finished the first five, the temp had dropped. I grabbed my Asics wind vest and Susan grabbed a windbreaker and off we went for our second five miles. It was pretty uneventful and thankfully the trail is so deep into the trees, the wind really was not a factor. We turned around at 2 1/2 and I told Susan that with 1 mile left we were going to pick it up. She just sort of grunted and looked at me. Not a good sign. However, when I told her it was time to go, she was all game and off we went. Her first 10 miler in years and she turned it in under 2 hours. Bravo to Susan!
After the run, we went back to her house and I split firewood for a couple of hours. Afterwards, we spent the afternoon going to her two girls' basketball games. MA had a really good game. Her team won 25-8 and she had 4 points. She played good defense and a couple of steals. She also did a good job passing the ball and had several assists. MA takes practice serious and it is such a great joy to practice with her. I've been doing passing drills with her and trying to get her to shoot without putting the ball on the floor. Both her goals were shot like that so I sort of gloated! E's game (first and second graders) is a little more lax. They go light on the traveling and double dribbling thing and the kids have fun more than anything else. That age group doesn't quite seem to understand the competitive nature of the game so it is fun watching them run around trying to figure out where to go and what to do. All that being said, E always seems to be having fun and smiling. She took several shots and made 1. She's one of those that practices better than she plays. I'm sure that in a couple of years she's going to be a terror on the court since she is in the first grade and taller than all the second graders.
After that, Susan and I went to dinner with some of her Bunko friends at one of the nicer hotel/conference centers in town . . . Ross Bridge http://www.rossbridgeresort.com/. We met early for cocktails and then had a very nice dinner. I didn't want to horn in since it was all girls but they all insisted that I eat with them. They were celebrating birthdays (5 ladies with birthdays within 30 days of each other) so we turned it into a party. The restaurant was very nice, giving us desserts and allowing us to hog the table for 3 hours. Without going into too much detail, we'll just say that we had fun but we overdid it . . . just a little bit.
Sunday was spent sitting around watching TV. We were supposed to go to my parents but neither of us were up for the visit. It was pouring down rain, cold and we were nursing our "party". We layed on the sofa and watched TV most of the day. We had planned to run 4 or 5 miles but blew it off because of the rain and the headaches (ouch!). I left her house around 4 and spent the rest of the evening washing clothes, napping, and watching the football games.
The good news is that I feel better today and will be trying to get a 6 miler tonight.
Friday, January 19, 2007
not quite
wondering about the title. Simple. I fagged out and only ran 4 miles Thursday night. Was planning on 5 but for no particular reason I decided to stop at 4. Well maybe several reasons to be honest. I was over at Susan's and she ran first while I stayed with the girls. I went for my run after she got back. It was just starting to get dark, it was cool and misty, Susan was starting dinner (and I was hungry). I guess the biggest reason I quit was the fact that when I came back by Susan's house (remember, this is a one mile loop) with one left to go, I noticed the smell of smoke . . . not that scary smell of a fire out of control, but the pleasant smell of a fire being started in the fireplace . . . the smell of warmth . . . the smell of home. It just made me stop dead in my tracks and evaluate the next 8 1/2 minutes of my future. Should I run another mile (I can always run) or spend the extra time with Susan and possibility of special moments. In the big scheme of things I think the fire in the fireplace is more important.
Planning on 10 miles Saturday. Talk to you later! Have a great weekend.
Planning on 10 miles Saturday. Talk to you later! Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
climbing out of a hole
Hey all. Just got in from an easy 4 miler. Wanted to do more but as I had mentioned in earlier posts, I am using this week as an easy transition week. I am transitioning from almost no running over the last two weeks (calf strain) to getting back on schedule. No sense in going from 0 miles to 30 miles in one week. I figured I'll get in between 15 and 20 this week and then go up from there. Tonight it was cool. Check that. It was cool but felt cold. Temp was in high 30s when I got started and it was slightly windy and cloudy. It wasn't cold enough to stick, but it was sleeting while I was running. Honest. No need to go to the store to buy milk and bread (or beer and chips as I prefer)-it will not be cold enough to do any damage around here. It was nice listening to it in the trees and having the tiny ice pellets slap me in the face. Very enjoyable.
I am planning on doing a 5 miler tomorrow afternoon. The calf feels fine but the spirit is wavering. Why is it that I always have such a hard time bouncing back after a little setback? What is the psychology behind that? Yes, I am excited to get back out here and even more excited that my injury seems to have subsided. It is sort of like when I play golf . . . if I hit a bad shot, it takes a couple of holes for me get the ship straightened out. You know what I mean?
Anyway, barring pain, I will do 5 Thursday and 10 on Saturday. If that goes well, then I will get back to a little more serious stuff next week.
I am planning on doing a 5 miler tomorrow afternoon. The calf feels fine but the spirit is wavering. Why is it that I always have such a hard time bouncing back after a little setback? What is the psychology behind that? Yes, I am excited to get back out here and even more excited that my injury seems to have subsided. It is sort of like when I play golf . . . if I hit a bad shot, it takes a couple of holes for me get the ship straightened out. You know what I mean?
Anyway, barring pain, I will do 5 Thursday and 10 on Saturday. If that goes well, then I will get back to a little more serious stuff next week.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Back in the saddle . . . maybe
Hi all. Sorry that I have not been keeping you up to date on my goings on and musings. Up until yesterday (Sunday), I had only run once in close to 2 weeks and that one run was a slow run with Shelly and was painful. I guess I did something to strain my left calf. I have never had pain in that area of my body before (not counting cramps which I have not had in years, BTW). Of course it makes sense that the older I get the greater the chances of pains in different body parts. Anway . . . at first I was concerned that it might be a high achilles strain but after pinpointing the pain and doing a little research and self diagnosis (we runners are VERY good doctors!), I determined that it was indeed my calf. Densest muscle in the body. Tough to hurt and tough to heal. As discussed with Phil, I was trying to keep it iced on a regular schedule. Unfortunately for me, my stomach (and GI Dr.) does not like NSAIDs so I am stuck just taking Tylenol for pain. Cannot take anti-inflammatories. Bummer. One of my buddies is a High School football coach here in Alabama and he swears by something that I have never tried . . . are you familiar with DMSO?http://www.dmso.org/articles/information/muir.htm
It's a solvent that is used as a horse linament. FDA has not approved it for use as a linament but it has been shown to work on humans in other parts of the world. No suprise . . . FDA is a government agency and in typical fashion, they are very progressive (yeah, right). So I decided to give it a try. There are varying strengths in gel and liquid forms. My dad had also tried it and some left over so he just gave me what he had. I am not sure if it was the rest, the ice, the DMSO or a combination but my calf started feeling better by this past weekend.
I had decided to sideline myself until today (Monday) but I was feeling pretty good and was going absolutely crazy. To top things off, Susan had done 8+ miles on Saturday and was wanting do to more on Sunday after church. With much caution and reservation I pulled 'em on, laced 'em up, and went for a jog with Susan. The first mile I was sort of gingerly tiptoeing through my run expecting to pull up lame at any time. However, after a mile, my leg felt fine. hmmmmm . . . . maybe it's healed? second mile . . no problems. Third, fouth and fifth miles went by with no problems. SUPER. No pain. Let's double check it . . . Susan and I shot basketball after our run. This also included me jumping for rebounds, trying to dunk (don't laugh), and just doing a lot of lateral, forward and backward movement. NO PROBLEMS (except that I could not dunk!). The plan is now to ease into this week. No hills. No speed work. Just work on base miles with maybe a 10 or 12 miler on Saturday. We'll see how it goes.
Susan came over for dinner on Sunday night and I fixed a ham, onion, cheddar-jack cheese fritata. Actually, it was a crustless quiche but does it really matter? I introduced her to perhaps the best TV show . . . 24. I didn't think that she would like since she's not much of a TV watcher but I think that she might be hooked. Give it a try if you haven't seen it.
Oh yeah . . . I'm blogging during a break at work. Today if MLK JR day and we get today off as a holiday but I decided to work. Only a handfull of folks here and I can get a lot done with no interruptions. It is like I can do 12 hours worth of work in an 8 hour day.
Hope everyone had a great weekend!
It's a solvent that is used as a horse linament. FDA has not approved it for use as a linament but it has been shown to work on humans in other parts of the world. No suprise . . . FDA is a government agency and in typical fashion, they are very progressive (yeah, right). So I decided to give it a try. There are varying strengths in gel and liquid forms. My dad had also tried it and some left over so he just gave me what he had. I am not sure if it was the rest, the ice, the DMSO or a combination but my calf started feeling better by this past weekend.
I had decided to sideline myself until today (Monday) but I was feeling pretty good and was going absolutely crazy. To top things off, Susan had done 8+ miles on Saturday and was wanting do to more on Sunday after church. With much caution and reservation I pulled 'em on, laced 'em up, and went for a jog with Susan. The first mile I was sort of gingerly tiptoeing through my run expecting to pull up lame at any time. However, after a mile, my leg felt fine. hmmmmm . . . . maybe it's healed? second mile . . no problems. Third, fouth and fifth miles went by with no problems. SUPER. No pain. Let's double check it . . . Susan and I shot basketball after our run. This also included me jumping for rebounds, trying to dunk (don't laugh), and just doing a lot of lateral, forward and backward movement. NO PROBLEMS (except that I could not dunk!). The plan is now to ease into this week. No hills. No speed work. Just work on base miles with maybe a 10 or 12 miler on Saturday. We'll see how it goes.
Susan came over for dinner on Sunday night and I fixed a ham, onion, cheddar-jack cheese fritata. Actually, it was a crustless quiche but does it really matter? I introduced her to perhaps the best TV show . . . 24. I didn't think that she would like since she's not much of a TV watcher but I think that she might be hooked. Give it a try if you haven't seen it.
Oh yeah . . . I'm blogging during a break at work. Today if MLK JR day and we get today off as a holiday but I decided to work. Only a handfull of folks here and I can get a lot done with no interruptions. It is like I can do 12 hours worth of work in an 8 hour day.
Hope everyone had a great weekend!
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