Bright sunshine helped the temperature climb all the way up to 18 today. For once I think I got out during the best of it. Ryan headed out with me (the first time since he's been home - mostly catching up on sleep and recovering from a cold) and we immediately crossed the street to do the big hill. Then we started exploring various trails, or what looked like trails.
Still not used to the cold, Ryan left me after 24 minutes. I headed back on our side of the road and ventured more onto the next farm's land. It's amazing how much the rain before the cold and snow has affected my options for running. A stream I was fairly confident crossing is now open and running hard.
I enjoyed my time out there and then enjoyed the time I'd run....1:02:03.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Baby It's Cold Outside
The day started out cold and just got colder. It was 20 degrees with a strong wind when we got up. By the time I ran, at 3pm, it was down to 12 degrees. I set out in the fields by the house, running about the same path as yesterday. The snow we got overnight ensured it was a better workout. Even with the sub-zero windchill, I was unzipping zippers and carrying my mittens after 2o minutes. Give me extreme cold over extreme heat any day! I was out for 50:04.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Strange Terrain
It was such a beautiful morning. I just wasn't ready for a run when Rick went out around 11 am. Rick likes to get out early (yeah, I know 11 isn't really early), but I like to run later. The only times I run early is when it's a Trail Monster group run, I'm doing a really long run, or it's gonna be really, really hot. Mostly I like to wait till I'm running out of daylight. Otherwise I don't have it to look forward to - it's over.
By the time I ran, the day was starting to change. Gone was the bright sunshine; the clouds had won out. In fact, a slight drizzle had begun. I put on my trail shoes hoping to not sink too deeply in the muddy fields. I was pleasantly surprised to find, though there was definitely wetness and mud, the ground was pretty firm. In fact, I had to be careful not to turn an ankle on the hard clumps. It was kind of weird after running on snow the last couple of weeks.
The daylight and I lasted 47:17.
By the time I ran, the day was starting to change. Gone was the bright sunshine; the clouds had won out. In fact, a slight drizzle had begun. I put on my trail shoes hoping to not sink too deeply in the muddy fields. I was pleasantly surprised to find, though there was definitely wetness and mud, the ground was pretty firm. In fact, I had to be careful not to turn an ankle on the hard clumps. It was kind of weird after running on snow the last couple of weeks.
The daylight and I lasted 47:17.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Back to Bradbury
I was psyched to run at Bradbury again. I hadn't run there since the beginning of November when I took a nasty fall. I met up with Ian, Eric with his perky pup, and Nate. We set off at a comfortable pace, though faster than I'd been running recently. The trail conditions were way better than I've been running on. It felt good to run a bit faster. Though I was shivering in the parking lot before the run, I was unzipping all the zippers I could after just ten minutes.
We ran the snowmobile trails on the non-mountain side of the park. I decided to turn back when we got to the gravel pit, just under 39 minutes. Ian guessed that was about 4 miles. The guys kept going another mile. I had planned to follow the same path back, but, seemingly on autopilot, ran the return part of the Scuffle once back to the park. I'm glad I made it back before the others (just barely) or they'd have thought I was lost. I think I can conservatively say I ran 8.5 in the 1:29:00 I was out.
Great day on the trails!
We ran the snowmobile trails on the non-mountain side of the park. I decided to turn back when we got to the gravel pit, just under 39 minutes. Ian guessed that was about 4 miles. The guys kept going another mile. I had planned to follow the same path back, but, seemingly on autopilot, ran the return part of the Scuffle once back to the park. I'm glad I made it back before the others (just barely) or they'd have thought I was lost. I think I can conservatively say I ran 8.5 in the 1:29:00 I was out.
Great day on the trails!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas!
Enjoyed a nice run on the still firm snowmobile trails today. I headed out after the presents were opened and there was a lull in activity. I love being able to run everywhere. Let's hope the coming weather doesn't bring too much unfrozen water. Meant to run about an hour and I was stopping my watch at 1:02:40.
I guess I'll mention this was pretty much like the previous three runs. Tuesday I ran 1:06:something in the fields, Wednesday 53:47, and 1:07:36 yesterday. The course was pretty much the same, but the conditions were pretty variable.
I guess I'll mention this was pretty much like the previous three runs. Tuesday I ran 1:06:something in the fields, Wednesday 53:47, and 1:07:36 yesterday. The course was pretty much the same, but the conditions were pretty variable.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Weekend Update
I thought I'd make it to Bradbury this weekend, but ended up having two wonderful runs from home. Winter really opens up the possibilities. Saturday I ran 58:26 on the now frozen snowmobile paths, making a mental note not to go another day without screws.
Today, Rick joined me. It's always great to run with him, but I appreciated having him even more to be a witness to my coyote. On one of the long, flat stretches of snowmobile trail, I saw some animal and called to Rick to notice. As we closed some distance, I could tell it was a coyote rolling in the snow. Reminded me of how Spot Dog loves to roll in snow. We weren't exactly approaching quietly since the snow was so crunchy and I'm rarely not talking. It jumped to its feet and looked at us a few moments before trotting off. If I'd been by myself, I'm not sure I'd have kept running in its direction. Maybe. We didn't see anything it was rolling in so I do think it was just enjoying the snow. Us, too!
Rick headed back a bit before I did. Since I won't get in a run tomorrow (heading to RI to pick up Ryan!!!), I wanted to go at least an hour. My newly screwed shoes let me enjoy the surroundings more instead of having to concentrate so hard on the footing.
Today, Rick joined me. It's always great to run with him, but I appreciated having him even more to be a witness to my coyote. On one of the long, flat stretches of snowmobile trail, I saw some animal and called to Rick to notice. As we closed some distance, I could tell it was a coyote rolling in the snow. Reminded me of how Spot Dog loves to roll in snow. We weren't exactly approaching quietly since the snow was so crunchy and I'm rarely not talking. It jumped to its feet and looked at us a few moments before trotting off. If I'd been by myself, I'm not sure I'd have kept running in its direction. Maybe. We didn't see anything it was rolling in so I do think it was just enjoying the snow. Us, too!
Rick headed back a bit before I did. Since I won't get in a run tomorrow (heading to RI to pick up Ryan!!!), I wanted to go at least an hour. My newly screwed shoes let me enjoy the surroundings more instead of having to concentrate so hard on the footing.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Another Frozen Run
Well, it was much warmer than yesterday, but still windy and cold. I didn't get out till late so was limited to 46:10. Gotta get the screws in - the snowmobile tracks are really getting icy now.
I enjoyed noticing the wildlife tracks. One field seems to have all the coyote and small game footprints. The coyotes appeared to be digging out some of the rodents. The deer tracks were in an entirely different field. As the daylight waned, I wondered how many of the animals were watching me!
I enjoyed noticing the wildlife tracks. One field seems to have all the coyote and small game footprints. The coyotes appeared to be digging out some of the rodents. The deer tracks were in an entirely different field. As the daylight waned, I wondered how many of the animals were watching me!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Frozen Fun
Yesterday was pretty cold and windy running with Four in Portland, but it didn't slow the chatter. Got in another 6.5 ish before I had to bail. Sam only had the one final so I didn't have lots of time.
Today made yesterday look warm. I had to call my father before my run to have someone telling me I was crazy to go out; Made it easier to get out the door.
I have all the right gear. Sports Hill makes great wind and cold clothes for winter running/skiing. Their 3sp fabric is amazingly wind resistant and warm without being restrictive or noisy like the old time wind fabrics. Usually, my achilles heal is my feet. Today I stuck in toes warmers. Wow! Warm feet while running! It made a huge difference.
I was also pleasantly surprised by snowmobile tracks. The temperature and wind was enough of a challenge. I was more than happy not to be breaking trail, too. I was out for 40:41. Would have run longer, but...holliday stuff still needs doing.
Today made yesterday look warm. I had to call my father before my run to have someone telling me I was crazy to go out; Made it easier to get out the door.
I have all the right gear. Sports Hill makes great wind and cold clothes for winter running/skiing. Their 3sp fabric is amazingly wind resistant and warm without being restrictive or noisy like the old time wind fabrics. Usually, my achilles heal is my feet. Today I stuck in toes warmers. Wow! Warm feet while running! It made a huge difference.
I was also pleasantly surprised by snowmobile tracks. The temperature and wind was enough of a challenge. I was more than happy not to be breaking trail, too. I was out for 40:41. Would have run longer, but...holliday stuff still needs doing.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Twelve Again
So, Friday's run was a repeat of Thursday's. Perhaps the only difference was a bit more wind. Saturday I really wanted to head to Bradbury for the Trail Monster group run, but I'm so behind on my Christmas stuff , I figured I couldn't justify the extra hour and a half when I could have a perfectly good run from home.
Turns out it was a great run! Oh, I still missed seeing everyone, but....
I'm surprised that there have been no snowmobiles out on any of the fields around here. I had to break trail the entire run. I also had to really try to read the terrain because there was so much water before the cold; an entire bog exists under the beautiful white.
I felt my childhood days of playing in the cow pastures of my uncle's dairy farm really helped. I think it honed my ability to hop from solid hay clump to solid hay clump. Since some melting and rain helped the snow to reveal the layout of it's land below (still the snow was at least 8 inches in most spots), I was having fun testing my skill.
When I missed one time and sank fairly deep into the cold, muddy water a childhood memory flooded so clearly into my head I burst out laughing. My friend and I had gone out during an intense snow storm. It had everything including high winds. As we made our way up "the hill", we had to stop periodically and dig a hole in the snow just to get our faces out of the bitter wind. On our way down, never thinking there could be running water lurking in such cold, Martha's foot plunged through the snow and down into the wet. She didn't have shoes that let the water run right out again, but big snow boots. The mud closed round. We both tugged on her leg to free it from the mud and slush. After a struggle her foot came out, but the boot remained. Before we could react, the slush filled her boot and froze. We couldn't empty it. I don't know how she managed to avoid frost bite. I remember us laughing so hard on the way down, almost hysterically I think. I do know there were tears when her foot was warming. As I ran Saturday, I realized that the distance we covered were childhood distances. Even though it was an amazing adventure, we were probably only 1/2 mile from the house.
So I worked very hard on my 48 minute run, but had fun feeling like I was twelve again.
Sunday, Rick decided to try the fields with me. He wasn't planning on running as long, but did much of the same course as Saturday. I can't wait till he's recovered fully so we can do more of our runs together. He feels his strength training and foam rollering is finally paying some dividends. The only drawback to running the fields was the crunchy crust on the snow was so loud as our feet broke through, it made conversation difficult. After Rick headed back in, I checked out more of where I think the Fat Ass will go. I think it's gonna be a fun loop! I was out just over an hour.
Monday, Sam had his chemistry final and no class after. Four accompanied me on a shortened version of my standard Monday run. We had to go slow cause there was lots of ice and neither of us had our shoes screwed. Our hour run was the perfect length. After dropping Four back at his place and heading to Hannaford to change, the cell rang. Sam was done.
To encourage myself to finish up some of my holliday cleaning, I said I could have a second run if I at least got the kitchen mopped. I only got in another 30 minutes because that was all the daylight that was left.
Turns out it was a great run! Oh, I still missed seeing everyone, but....
I'm surprised that there have been no snowmobiles out on any of the fields around here. I had to break trail the entire run. I also had to really try to read the terrain because there was so much water before the cold; an entire bog exists under the beautiful white.
I felt my childhood days of playing in the cow pastures of my uncle's dairy farm really helped. I think it honed my ability to hop from solid hay clump to solid hay clump. Since some melting and rain helped the snow to reveal the layout of it's land below (still the snow was at least 8 inches in most spots), I was having fun testing my skill.
When I missed one time and sank fairly deep into the cold, muddy water a childhood memory flooded so clearly into my head I burst out laughing. My friend and I had gone out during an intense snow storm. It had everything including high winds. As we made our way up "the hill", we had to stop periodically and dig a hole in the snow just to get our faces out of the bitter wind. On our way down, never thinking there could be running water lurking in such cold, Martha's foot plunged through the snow and down into the wet. She didn't have shoes that let the water run right out again, but big snow boots. The mud closed round. We both tugged on her leg to free it from the mud and slush. After a struggle her foot came out, but the boot remained. Before we could react, the slush filled her boot and froze. We couldn't empty it. I don't know how she managed to avoid frost bite. I remember us laughing so hard on the way down, almost hysterically I think. I do know there were tears when her foot was warming. As I ran Saturday, I realized that the distance we covered were childhood distances. Even though it was an amazing adventure, we were probably only 1/2 mile from the house.
So I worked very hard on my 48 minute run, but had fun feeling like I was twelve again.
Sunday, Rick decided to try the fields with me. He wasn't planning on running as long, but did much of the same course as Saturday. I can't wait till he's recovered fully so we can do more of our runs together. He feels his strength training and foam rollering is finally paying some dividends. The only drawback to running the fields was the crunchy crust on the snow was so loud as our feet broke through, it made conversation difficult. After Rick headed back in, I checked out more of where I think the Fat Ass will go. I think it's gonna be a fun loop! I was out just over an hour.
Monday, Sam had his chemistry final and no class after. Four accompanied me on a shortened version of my standard Monday run. We had to go slow cause there was lots of ice and neither of us had our shoes screwed. Our hour run was the perfect length. After dropping Four back at his place and heading to Hannaford to change, the cell rang. Sam was done.
To encourage myself to finish up some of my holliday cleaning, I said I could have a second run if I at least got the kitchen mopped. I only got in another 30 minutes because that was all the daylight that was left.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Good Run
Retraced my steps from yesterday's run. It was cool to see that at least two deer had decided to follow in my footsteps last night! They didn't stay on my twisty course for long. I think they didn't appreciate adding distance to their path. The running was definitely easier today. I took six minutes off and wasn't working nearly as hard.
The toe is still very irritated. A friend who is a nurse practitioner recommended taking turmeric as NSAID alternative. I'm gonna investigate.
The toe is still very irritated. A friend who is a nurse practitioner recommended taking turmeric as NSAID alternative. I'm gonna investigate.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Good for What Ails - II
Not sure where to start. I woke yesterday to an enormously painful, big-toe joint. By the time I finally had time for a run, not only was the joint very swollen and red, but my limping had given me a pretty big knot in my calf. I'm going to admit to being a little crazy; I made an amazing leap to thinking it could be gout. Ok, so a lot more men than women get it and I don't have the risk factors usually associated with it, but, it does have a familial component and my father had been diagnosed with it at one point and I do like my beer.
So, instead of running, I headed to the doctor who actually didn't think I was out of my mind with my diagnosis. She looked at my toe and listened to my story. She seemed more concerned with pain relief where I just wanted to know what I was dealing with. She sent me off for blood work and with instructions for NSAIDs and icing.
Let me further make fun of myself. I say I thought of gout, in large part, cause of the sudden onset. Yeah, did I complain on a blog about my big toe being aggravated by the Nordic Tracking just last week? If not, maybe it was just Rick that was subjected to that. During my karate years, I jammed my big toes a lot. It's why I have trouble finding the right road shoe ; Even overlays that cover the shoe can aggravate the stupid digit. So, I guess it's funny that I might be considering it "sudden".
The nurse called this morning and said my uric acid level (the indicator of gout) was right smack in the middle of normal. She said I should continue with the NSAIDs and ice. If I don't see improvement in a week, I could come in for xrays. I didn't tell her I don't take any of that stuff cause it wrecks my stomach. I might ice it, but... What I really concentrated on was trying to walk a little more normally to help with the calf.
I'm not sure if I have mentioned how much I love running in the snow. In fact, I love running in blizzard-like conditions. I kept looking out and wondering how much damage I would do by running. Ok. I could at least head out and stop if it hurt too much. I put on all the right gear and then held my breath as I attempted to put my left foot into its shoe. Guess what! My love for my Inov-8s grew many times today. My toe actually feels better in them than barefoot!! And running was less painful than walking. Before long I'd lost myself to the run. Maybe I'll count this as icing the toe :)
My heart rate was probably higher today than during any of my races this year. The new powder was pretty deep and drifted in spots. I only lasted 42 minutes, but that was due to the exertion not the toe. I almost went down twice - more from not having depth perception in the snow than from the footing. I haven't even been able to bring myself to put the screws in my shoes yet. I know it doesn't hurt them; I did it last year, but these are my brand new shoes.
I'm thinking I need to clean up my old Inov-8's so I can wear them around the house. I'm not kidding. I aught to write them a fan letter.
So, instead of running, I headed to the doctor who actually didn't think I was out of my mind with my diagnosis. She looked at my toe and listened to my story. She seemed more concerned with pain relief where I just wanted to know what I was dealing with. She sent me off for blood work and with instructions for NSAIDs and icing.
Let me further make fun of myself. I say I thought of gout, in large part, cause of the sudden onset. Yeah, did I complain on a blog about my big toe being aggravated by the Nordic Tracking just last week? If not, maybe it was just Rick that was subjected to that. During my karate years, I jammed my big toes a lot. It's why I have trouble finding the right road shoe ; Even overlays that cover the shoe can aggravate the stupid digit. So, I guess it's funny that I might be considering it "sudden".
The nurse called this morning and said my uric acid level (the indicator of gout) was right smack in the middle of normal. She said I should continue with the NSAIDs and ice. If I don't see improvement in a week, I could come in for xrays. I didn't tell her I don't take any of that stuff cause it wrecks my stomach. I might ice it, but... What I really concentrated on was trying to walk a little more normally to help with the calf.
I'm not sure if I have mentioned how much I love running in the snow. In fact, I love running in blizzard-like conditions. I kept looking out and wondering how much damage I would do by running. Ok. I could at least head out and stop if it hurt too much. I put on all the right gear and then held my breath as I attempted to put my left foot into its shoe. Guess what! My love for my Inov-8s grew many times today. My toe actually feels better in them than barefoot!! And running was less painful than walking. Before long I'd lost myself to the run. Maybe I'll count this as icing the toe :)
My heart rate was probably higher today than during any of my races this year. The new powder was pretty deep and drifted in spots. I only lasted 42 minutes, but that was due to the exertion not the toe. I almost went down twice - more from not having depth perception in the snow than from the footing. I haven't even been able to bring myself to put the screws in my shoes yet. I know it doesn't hurt them; I did it last year, but these are my brand new shoes.
I'm thinking I need to clean up my old Inov-8's so I can wear them around the house. I'm not kidding. I aught to write them a fan letter.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Good for What Ails
After a lousy Saturday with the first stomach bug I've had in a long, long time, I woke feeling not horrible on Sunday. I still had a background headache and just felt overall blah. The new fallen snow and just starting to run pain free combined to convince me to try a run. I opted to stay in the nearby fields in case it was the wrong choice.
In fact, the 51:47 minutes I ran were the best I felt all day. The cool, crisp air cleared my foggy head. I was surprised that the bright sunshine, relected so strongly off the snow, perked me up instead of bringing my headache out in full force. New snow always brings out the puppy in my old dog and I think in me, too.
Still not totally back to normal today, but tried to act like I was. Ran an easy five miles around the Back Cove with my friend Judy. We stopped at five so that we'd have time for Christmas shopping. During the run we crossed paths with Trail Monster Randy!
In fact, the 51:47 minutes I ran were the best I felt all day. The cool, crisp air cleared my foggy head. I was surprised that the bright sunshine, relected so strongly off the snow, perked me up instead of bringing my headache out in full force. New snow always brings out the puppy in my old dog and I think in me, too.
Still not totally back to normal today, but tried to act like I was. Ran an easy five miles around the Back Cove with my friend Judy. We stopped at five so that we'd have time for Christmas shopping. During the run we crossed paths with Trail Monster Randy!
Friday, December 4, 2009
A Thousand Words
Look! My new Inov-8's with mud all over them!! Also notice the cute puppy; She'll be 13 in just eight days. A very happy shot indeed!I ran for a pain-free 37:30 in the very, very wet fields by our house today. The only way it could have been better would be if Rick and Spot were running with me. Rick was at work and Spot would have gladly joined me, but then paid too dearly for it later. She'd already done the same course with me as a walk though.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Unscientific Method
Yesterday I ran an easy four with Four around the Back Cove. I was aiming for five, but started feeling some discomfort and decided to walk the rest. So. It wasn't as far as Monday, but the discomfort started later. Hopefully, I'm on the mend.
Now for a confession. I may have exaggerated the measurable effect of moving the Nordic Tracker out of the basement. I guess, first of all, I didn't give any useful data. All I said was that I experienced a 2 km/hr increase in speed. I should have qualified it by saying that represented a 20 % increase over my average speed in the basement. I also should have had more data before making such a claim and have mentioned that the tensioning mechanism on the machine is a bit...crude and perhaps not exactly reliably reproducible. To move it, I had to un-tension it and then reset it (about as near as I could to where it was). Also, over garage floor and the outside locations I use are not exactly level which influences the resistance. What I'm trying to say is I think, though I enjoy it much more, I don't think I have the data to say that enjoyment translates to an increase in performance. I wanted it to be so.
Now for a confession. I may have exaggerated the measurable effect of moving the Nordic Tracker out of the basement. I guess, first of all, I didn't give any useful data. All I said was that I experienced a 2 km/hr increase in speed. I should have qualified it by saying that represented a 20 % increase over my average speed in the basement. I also should have had more data before making such a claim and have mentioned that the tensioning mechanism on the machine is a bit...crude and perhaps not exactly reliably reproducible. To move it, I had to un-tension it and then reset it (about as near as I could to where it was). Also, over garage floor and the outside locations I use are not exactly level which influences the resistance. What I'm trying to say is I think, though I enjoy it much more, I don't think I have the data to say that enjoyment translates to an increase in performance. I wanted it to be so.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Knock on Wood
Seven days ago was the last time I tried to run after injuring myself in a fall two weeks before that. I really wanted to try it out yesterday. Instead I went to Hell and just watched (that was the real Hell). I'm hoping that's the last event I have to be a spectator.
Today was raw. There weren't many cars in the Back Cove parking lot. A steady drizzle fell. And it was wonderful! That's only because as soon as I started running, I couldn't detect any of the pain or even any tightness. I felt strong and actually held myself back on the pace. It's funny how good a rotten day can feel if you're running.
I'd gone 2.5 miles before I noticed something in the knee/hip and then it wasn't exactly pain, just something not totally right. The good thing was that I didn't need to modify my stride like I had before. I finished the 3.5 mile loop and couldn't resist stretching it out a little further. I really wanted to get in 40 minutes cause then I'd only have 20 minutes on the Nordic Tracker (I've been shooting for 60 minutes of cardio druing my lay off).
I found out a few interesting things about Tracking and working out. Since I don't really enjoy it, I don't mind doing intervals on it. In fact, they help break it up. On the other hand, I love my runs so much, I have trouble making myself do anything other than enjoy the run. Speed work also increases my incidence of injuries, but, I haven't found that to be true on the Tracker. It remains to be seen how much the speed work on the Tracker helps with running. I'm hoping that, this time, I can make myself add the Tracker even when I'm totally recovered.
I suspected it would be less tedious if I Tracked not in the basement. The other times I tried Tracking outside, the mosquitoes made it unbearable. This is the season to use it outside (or in the garage, door open, if it rains). My pace improved almost 2 km/hr out of the dungeon.
So, knock on wood, I think I am on my way to recovery. I won't be canceling my doctor's appt just yet, but....I'm hopeful.
Today was raw. There weren't many cars in the Back Cove parking lot. A steady drizzle fell. And it was wonderful! That's only because as soon as I started running, I couldn't detect any of the pain or even any tightness. I felt strong and actually held myself back on the pace. It's funny how good a rotten day can feel if you're running.
I'd gone 2.5 miles before I noticed something in the knee/hip and then it wasn't exactly pain, just something not totally right. The good thing was that I didn't need to modify my stride like I had before. I finished the 3.5 mile loop and couldn't resist stretching it out a little further. I really wanted to get in 40 minutes cause then I'd only have 20 minutes on the Nordic Tracker (I've been shooting for 60 minutes of cardio druing my lay off).
I found out a few interesting things about Tracking and working out. Since I don't really enjoy it, I don't mind doing intervals on it. In fact, they help break it up. On the other hand, I love my runs so much, I have trouble making myself do anything other than enjoy the run. Speed work also increases my incidence of injuries, but, I haven't found that to be true on the Tracker. It remains to be seen how much the speed work on the Tracker helps with running. I'm hoping that, this time, I can make myself add the Tracker even when I'm totally recovered.
I suspected it would be less tedious if I Tracked not in the basement. The other times I tried Tracking outside, the mosquitoes made it unbearable. This is the season to use it outside (or in the garage, door open, if it rains). My pace improved almost 2 km/hr out of the dungeon.
So, knock on wood, I think I am on my way to recovery. I won't be canceling my doctor's appt just yet, but....I'm hopeful.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Set Back
Linda came to Portland with me today. We met up with Four, planning to do an easy lap or two around the Back Cove. It was almost like the day after I fell all over again. The only thing better is that I don't have the sudden sharp pain at seemingly random times. I couldn't convince Linda and Four to leave me to feel sorry for myself and enjoy a run. Instead they kept me company on a very chilly walk around.
When I got home I made an appointment to see a sports medicine doctor. I hope to be better by then, but, I wanted to get on the books just in case. The earliest opening was Dec. 16th. Ugh! The other reason I don't want to take the wait and see approach is that we've already met our very high deductible this year...
When I got home I made an appointment to see a sports medicine doctor. I hope to be better by then, but, I wanted to get on the books just in case. The earliest opening was Dec. 16th. Ugh! The other reason I don't want to take the wait and see approach is that we've already met our very high deductible this year...
Recovery
After the knee recovered from the impact, I realized the main injury was actually in my butt. I can now run on flat surfaces fairly comfortably. My first run was Monday around the Back Cove. Since it's so flat, I thought I was fine. I pulled out an old trick I hadn't needed to use since my knee surgery back in '87 - I went right to Hannaford and bought frozen peas to ice both my knee and bottom. No matter where I've run, I've been able to come up with frozen veggies pretty soon after. Peas are perfect for the job.
My next run was Wednesday from our house. I noticed immediate pain and tightness (there is very little level ground from our house). It originates deep in what I'm guessing is the piriformis area and shoots pain into and around the knee. My three miles were not fun and required stretching breaks. To get in a good workout, I climbed on the tracker for another half hour. I did the same on Thurs and Friday. It doesn't feel like I'm hurting myself since I'm not getting worse.
Today Rick and I headed out together for a run. Yay! That hasn't happened for quite some time. I seemed to go farther before the tightness started today. If it had been a 4.5 mile run, it would have been fine. The last .5 proved painful. I hope I stand a chance in Hell. I've got a whole week left to improve. I think it means lots of stretching and lots of the damn roller.
My next run was Wednesday from our house. I noticed immediate pain and tightness (there is very little level ground from our house). It originates deep in what I'm guessing is the piriformis area and shoots pain into and around the knee. My three miles were not fun and required stretching breaks. To get in a good workout, I climbed on the tracker for another half hour. I did the same on Thurs and Friday. It doesn't feel like I'm hurting myself since I'm not getting worse.
Today Rick and I headed out together for a run. Yay! That hasn't happened for quite some time. I seemed to go farther before the tightness started today. If it had been a 4.5 mile run, it would have been fine. The last .5 proved painful. I hope I stand a chance in Hell. I've got a whole week left to improve. I think it means lots of stretching and lots of the damn roller.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
2010
Since I don't have any running to write about, I guess I can lay out my running goals/plan for next year. The main focus for me will be Pineland. I thought I would be cured after running 50 miles; That I'd be through with that distance. Well, I knew when I crossed the finish that I wasn't finished with it. I believe that I can take an hour off my time. Kind of funny saying that, but it's probably like taking a minute off the 5K. I think it's definitely in my reach.
I don't think I need a different training plan. I used one that Emma passed on to me and was quite happy with it. What I need to do is not change the distances, but the setting. My body, specifically my ITB, seems to not like the Pineland course so I avoid it except to run the race there. Really smart, huh - don't run there except when it's a 50 miler. Perhaps it may be a better plan to actually aclimate my body to the terrain. If I find it doesn't work, then I'll just tough it out again, but, if it does!, I might actually do more than just survive it. That is the primary goal of 2010.
My secondary goal (even though it happens first) is to host a Fat Ass for my 50th birthday. So, all you Trail Monsters, consider yourselves invited on Feb 20th. Ian told me he'll help me get the word out when the time comes. So the details will be coming. Just hold the date. I was thinking that I'd just do the distance that my Pineland plan had for that day, but, shouldn't I go for it on my birthday?! We'll see.
Monday, I'm gonna try running for the first time in a week. My knee now doesn't hurt on steps. It has only given me a few twinges this day, so I'm optimistic.
I don't think I need a different training plan. I used one that Emma passed on to me and was quite happy with it. What I need to do is not change the distances, but the setting. My body, specifically my ITB, seems to not like the Pineland course so I avoid it except to run the race there. Really smart, huh - don't run there except when it's a 50 miler. Perhaps it may be a better plan to actually aclimate my body to the terrain. If I find it doesn't work, then I'll just tough it out again, but, if it does!, I might actually do more than just survive it. That is the primary goal of 2010.
My secondary goal (even though it happens first) is to host a Fat Ass for my 50th birthday. So, all you Trail Monsters, consider yourselves invited on Feb 20th. Ian told me he'll help me get the word out when the time comes. So the details will be coming. Just hold the date. I was thinking that I'd just do the distance that my Pineland plan had for that day, but, shouldn't I go for it on my birthday?! We'll see.
Monday, I'm gonna try running for the first time in a week. My knee now doesn't hurt on steps. It has only given me a few twinges this day, so I'm optimistic.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Pain
I've been waiting to write because who wants to read about someone just whining? I know there are lots of people who haven't been able to run for much longer than two days. I really feel for them. It makes me sad. MY not running makes me worried, sad, impatient, and, well, a bitch.
When I was in Colorado visiting my brother after the birth of Elliott back in March, we went out for a run. I was a little worried because my IT band/knee was acting grumpy. I guess I must have been complaining/analyzing a bit too much. John tried to tell me I needed to learn how not to focus on the pain. Wow! Suddenly the biggest pain was not in my knee. He definitely hit some kind of nerve. I was instantly defensive and definitely mad at him. Wasn't I the one who had two babies without any drugs (and one that was 12 hours of back labor!)!! Wasn't I the one who took no pain meds after my knee surgery following my first marathon (which was a road marathon back in '86 that I ran after only training in the fields - but that's another story). Hadn't I run several other marathons, two 50k's and all the training that goes into that?!
I think I was defensive because, perhaps, you always wonder if you're being tough enough. Perhaps it has something to do with having a DNF after my name in my first 50 mile attempt. Perhaps it was cause it was my brother saying it and I can get mad at him. I think I really was just trying to figure out whether it was a pain that was ok to run thru or whether I should stop. I guess I could have decided this silently and spared John what might have just seemed like whining. This run was not important enough to push through when I needed to redeem myself at Pinelands in May. Turns out, my knee was not grumpy running a faster pace. Did I find that out trying to leave my brother behind? I don't remember. Whatever, I wasn't sidelined at all.
Sunday at Bradbury I took a hard fall. It hurt a lot initially, but, that was just the impact. I was able to run the 3 or so miles back and thought that was that. I was a bit surprised at the stabbing pain the next day when I went down steps. I still had no clue that I might be injured. I put running clothes on and headed to Portland with Sam. By the time Four got to the Back Cove, I'd already discovered I couldn't run. We decided to walk - perhaps it would loosen up (even though I knew it was not at all that type of pain). It was a beautiful day and Four made me feel like he was enjoying the walk and didn't resent not running. Unfortunately, I experienced the same stabbing pain in the knee if, while walking, I twisted to look at things not dead ahead. There was also a pain in my hip/butt, but the knee pain was so much sharper that I couldn't really analyze my ass.
Alright, obviously I needed to take that day off. Tuesday I made plans to run with Linda. I had my doubts; the pain was still there on the steps and also surprised me at odd times during my day. But, I wanted to believe it was fine. I didn't run more than a handful of steps before bailing. Crap. Linda headed out and I headed back to the house and immediately went to the basement to find out if I can at least use my Nordic Track skier. I think that was the best piece of equipment we ever bought. I don't really enjoy it, but I've always been able to use it through any injury. Thankfully, that statement is still true. It helps maintain the cardiac fitness and uses similar muscles to running so I can make myself use it.
My iPod makes this a lot more tolerable than it used to be. It's bad enough being injured, but then giving up running outside to tracking in our dark, damp, disturbingly messy basement. Ugh! Maybe someone can help me on this; Why do people wear iPods on runs? It's so great for the tracker because it isolates me from my environment; insolates me from the activity itself. I have tried it some runs, but I love running and the outside. Why would I not want to be a part of it?
So I got in 45 minutes of fairly rigorous exercise. I'm sure my arms will feel it. It used to be my quads would be sore after the tracker, but, it seems that was when I was a road runner. I was always going to keep doing one or two tracher sessions a week once I was recovered since it strengthened the legs so well. Ha! I'd need to be more disciplined for that. Trail running seems to have helped there (how isn't it better?!). My legs feel fine (muscular-wise).
Mindy and Ian probably have a good bit of soreness this week :-) but that's the kind that you earn. Each painful step reminds you of your magnificent feat (really, you guys, magnificent!). I'm looking forward to that kind of pain. Meanwhile, I'll be in the basement with Green Day.
When I was in Colorado visiting my brother after the birth of Elliott back in March, we went out for a run. I was a little worried because my IT band/knee was acting grumpy. I guess I must have been complaining/analyzing a bit too much. John tried to tell me I needed to learn how not to focus on the pain. Wow! Suddenly the biggest pain was not in my knee. He definitely hit some kind of nerve. I was instantly defensive and definitely mad at him. Wasn't I the one who had two babies without any drugs (and one that was 12 hours of back labor!)!! Wasn't I the one who took no pain meds after my knee surgery following my first marathon (which was a road marathon back in '86 that I ran after only training in the fields - but that's another story). Hadn't I run several other marathons, two 50k's and all the training that goes into that?!
I think I was defensive because, perhaps, you always wonder if you're being tough enough. Perhaps it has something to do with having a DNF after my name in my first 50 mile attempt. Perhaps it was cause it was my brother saying it and I can get mad at him. I think I really was just trying to figure out whether it was a pain that was ok to run thru or whether I should stop. I guess I could have decided this silently and spared John what might have just seemed like whining. This run was not important enough to push through when I needed to redeem myself at Pinelands in May. Turns out, my knee was not grumpy running a faster pace. Did I find that out trying to leave my brother behind? I don't remember. Whatever, I wasn't sidelined at all.
Sunday at Bradbury I took a hard fall. It hurt a lot initially, but, that was just the impact. I was able to run the 3 or so miles back and thought that was that. I was a bit surprised at the stabbing pain the next day when I went down steps. I still had no clue that I might be injured. I put running clothes on and headed to Portland with Sam. By the time Four got to the Back Cove, I'd already discovered I couldn't run. We decided to walk - perhaps it would loosen up (even though I knew it was not at all that type of pain). It was a beautiful day and Four made me feel like he was enjoying the walk and didn't resent not running. Unfortunately, I experienced the same stabbing pain in the knee if, while walking, I twisted to look at things not dead ahead. There was also a pain in my hip/butt, but the knee pain was so much sharper that I couldn't really analyze my ass.
Alright, obviously I needed to take that day off. Tuesday I made plans to run with Linda. I had my doubts; the pain was still there on the steps and also surprised me at odd times during my day. But, I wanted to believe it was fine. I didn't run more than a handful of steps before bailing. Crap. Linda headed out and I headed back to the house and immediately went to the basement to find out if I can at least use my Nordic Track skier. I think that was the best piece of equipment we ever bought. I don't really enjoy it, but I've always been able to use it through any injury. Thankfully, that statement is still true. It helps maintain the cardiac fitness and uses similar muscles to running so I can make myself use it.
My iPod makes this a lot more tolerable than it used to be. It's bad enough being injured, but then giving up running outside to tracking in our dark, damp, disturbingly messy basement. Ugh! Maybe someone can help me on this; Why do people wear iPods on runs? It's so great for the tracker because it isolates me from my environment; insolates me from the activity itself. I have tried it some runs, but I love running and the outside. Why would I not want to be a part of it?
So I got in 45 minutes of fairly rigorous exercise. I'm sure my arms will feel it. It used to be my quads would be sore after the tracker, but, it seems that was when I was a road runner. I was always going to keep doing one or two tracher sessions a week once I was recovered since it strengthened the legs so well. Ha! I'd need to be more disciplined for that. Trail running seems to have helped there (how isn't it better?!). My legs feel fine (muscular-wise).
Mindy and Ian probably have a good bit of soreness this week :-) but that's the kind that you earn. Each painful step reminds you of your magnificent feat (really, you guys, magnificent!). I'm looking forward to that kind of pain. Meanwhile, I'll be in the basement with Green Day.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Disciplined?
My dad always said I must be so disciplined to run a marathon. Then, he thought I just must be crazy to run past 26.2. Well, it was never discipline - it was the same thing that drove me to run farther - I guess best called a compulsion. Maybe I'm obsessive/compulsive. I don't know. But, I know it's good for me. It's also my excuse for needing to catch up on my week of running. I had planned to write about each run the day I ran it, but, I am not disciplined. So I'll do a quick recap...
Tuesday was a planned day off. Wednesday, the 4th, was practically a repeat of Monday. Four and I did my standard Portland route. I think we took a minute longer than Monday. And! We met up with beautiful Belle, the old Irish Setter, and her owner (who told Four about how much of a Chick magnet Belle was).
Thursday was an unintended day off. I house/dog sat for a neighbor who lost their elderly mom.
Friday I ran a road eight miles on a route just opened up to me again since our bridge is runnable. I was hoping it would seem like new since I haven't been able to run there in so long, but, once deer season is over, I think it'll be a long time since I run this route again.
Saturday was our annual pre-Thanksgiving with college friends. Thanks to Jamie, I was able to follow our Monsters running Stone Cat!! Great job, Mindy and Ian!!!
Today, Linda, Kevin, and I ran at Bradbury. We started out on the Scuffle course and then switched over to the first part of the Bruiser, only backwards. I have to wait to see what Kevin posts as our actual mileage (by his gps(s)). I'm thinking it's very close to 7 miles. The run was at a relaxed, conversational pace - and converse we did! Kevin is great company.
Just after we switched to the Bruiser course, I tried to avoid a muddy puddle (I should know better). Instead of just going right down the middle, I tried to stick to the edge and slipped. I fell sideways and landed hard on my knee on a big root. I took a minute or two to gather myself, but was able to keep going. It was preferable to letting the injury just swell.
It was Linda's first time back to Bradbury since she fell hard there near the end of September. She was just a bit nervous since it aggravated her back (she'd had back surgery a few years ago). Kinda like getting back on the horse - she was fine once she got back on.
There, all caught up.
Tuesday was a planned day off. Wednesday, the 4th, was practically a repeat of Monday. Four and I did my standard Portland route. I think we took a minute longer than Monday. And! We met up with beautiful Belle, the old Irish Setter, and her owner (who told Four about how much of a Chick magnet Belle was).
Thursday was an unintended day off. I house/dog sat for a neighbor who lost their elderly mom.
Friday I ran a road eight miles on a route just opened up to me again since our bridge is runnable. I was hoping it would seem like new since I haven't been able to run there in so long, but, once deer season is over, I think it'll be a long time since I run this route again.
Saturday was our annual pre-Thanksgiving with college friends. Thanks to Jamie, I was able to follow our Monsters running Stone Cat!! Great job, Mindy and Ian!!!
Today, Linda, Kevin, and I ran at Bradbury. We started out on the Scuffle course and then switched over to the first part of the Bruiser, only backwards. I have to wait to see what Kevin posts as our actual mileage (by his gps(s)). I'm thinking it's very close to 7 miles. The run was at a relaxed, conversational pace - and converse we did! Kevin is great company.
Just after we switched to the Bruiser course, I tried to avoid a muddy puddle (I should know better). Instead of just going right down the middle, I tried to stick to the edge and slipped. I fell sideways and landed hard on my knee on a big root. I took a minute or two to gather myself, but was able to keep going. It was preferable to letting the injury just swell.
It was Linda's first time back to Bradbury since she fell hard there near the end of September. She was just a bit nervous since it aggravated her back (she'd had back surgery a few years ago). Kinda like getting back on the horse - she was fine once she got back on.
There, all caught up.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Faster, Funner
So, yesterday was Monday. Monday means my Portland run. As much as I usually enjoy it, it was more fun yesterday. Four came along with me. Before we got off the Back Cove path I had to rein him in a little. I could have run that pace, but not have talked the whole time. As it was, we still covered the 10.5 plus miles nearly 4 minutes faster than I usually run. Hmmm....maybe I need a running partner more than I think. I do attribute my Bruiser break through this year to running Bradbury with the Monsters.
I showed Four all my little "finds" along the way. There's a tree off the Eastern Prom trail that someone(s) hangs stuff from. Some of the stuff seems permanent, but some comes and goes. I always have to stop and check it. I've been trying to think what my contribution should be. Ryan thought maybe something of the FSM. Maybe, there are some plastic rosary beads already. It was a surprise the Monday after our Brown visit when the tree was sporting a pirate mask. Well, the frat next to Ryan's house was having a pirate party....Almost suspected the tree of attending!
I didn't even feel guilty when Four couldn't be convinced that a chocolate chunk scone is the end of the run.
I showed Four all my little "finds" along the way. There's a tree off the Eastern Prom trail that someone(s) hangs stuff from. Some of the stuff seems permanent, but some comes and goes. I always have to stop and check it. I've been trying to think what my contribution should be. Ryan thought maybe something of the FSM. Maybe, there are some plastic rosary beads already. It was a surprise the Monday after our Brown visit when the tree was sporting a pirate mask. Well, the frat next to Ryan's house was having a pirate party....Almost suspected the tree of attending!
I didn't even feel guilty when Four couldn't be convinced that a chocolate chunk scone is the end of the run.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Beautiful Bradbury
Sunday was spectacular at Bradbury. Heading there, we weren't expecting to see many people; It was early and the weather seemed dreary. The parking lot had a surprising number of cars. Perhaps other people had looked at the weather report; It was soon beautiful - bright sunshine, golden leaves, warm air.
Rick came with me after a forced running break (work issues not injuries - for a change). The rest seemed to agree with him; We headed off at a faster pace than I expected. A couple miles in, I commented on it and he decided I should lead to control the pace a bit. He felt like running fast, but didn't think he'd be able to keep it up for our entire run.
We were doing part of the Bruiser course, but had to skip the loopy part on Lanzo. The downed leaves had made the trail nearly impossible to follow. It was like the first year the Bruiser was run, but without the orange flags to help recognize what was trail. The rest of the course (excluding the O trail - there was no way we'd be able to follow that) was fine.
Of course, we got wet and muddy, with rain the night before; That seems to be normal for Bradbury. It was so nice to run with Rick. I hope he's truly on the mend.
Rick came with me after a forced running break (work issues not injuries - for a change). The rest seemed to agree with him; We headed off at a faster pace than I expected. A couple miles in, I commented on it and he decided I should lead to control the pace a bit. He felt like running fast, but didn't think he'd be able to keep it up for our entire run.
We were doing part of the Bruiser course, but had to skip the loopy part on Lanzo. The downed leaves had made the trail nearly impossible to follow. It was like the first year the Bruiser was run, but without the orange flags to help recognize what was trail. The rest of the course (excluding the O trail - there was no way we'd be able to follow that) was fine.
Of course, we got wet and muddy, with rain the night before; That seems to be normal for Bradbury. It was so nice to run with Rick. I hope he's truly on the mend.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday and Saturday
I often wish to have a mind-recorder since I think I have such profound thoughts on my runs....It's like, if everyone just ran, there'd be world peace. Today I realized maybe it's a good thing that I don't have total recall. I think I think some weird stuff that just seems profound. Today I was pondering coyotes and hunting and survival. The only thing I ended up really remembering was needing to have someone defend lions (the African kind, not our mountain lions) to me. They've been on my shit-list for some time now. Perhaps I'll corner Jeff after some race/run to see if he can defend their evolutionary behaviors to me so I can again respect them.
Yesterday I just got in 4 miles, about split between roads and fields. I wanted to go longer, but ran out of daylight. I realized a while ago that I'm on pace to run over 1,900 miles for the year. That would be a record for me....There is the outside chance that I could go over 2,000 if I become a mileage junky....Just have to be careful not to break!
Since it was the start of deer hunting, I just ran roads today. I set out for and easy 6, but, felt good, had the time, so did just over 8. The only thing eventful about today's run was that my leaf count reached 19 (That's for you, Ryan (my Ryan)). I don't think my time suffered since I ran faster to catch the "virtual leaves" than I slowed to catch the actual ones.
Yesterday I just got in 4 miles, about split between roads and fields. I wanted to go longer, but ran out of daylight. I realized a while ago that I'm on pace to run over 1,900 miles for the year. That would be a record for me....There is the outside chance that I could go over 2,000 if I become a mileage junky....Just have to be careful not to break!
Since it was the start of deer hunting, I just ran roads today. I set out for and easy 6, but, felt good, had the time, so did just over 8. The only thing eventful about today's run was that my leaf count reached 19 (That's for you, Ryan (my Ryan)). I don't think my time suffered since I ran faster to catch the "virtual leaves" than I slowed to catch the actual ones.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Yay!
They finished the bridge on our road! For over two months we've had to go the long way home. And for two months any of our road runs only had one direction to go. Linda and I were going for an easy run and decided to check on the bridge. We were delighted to see them paving and cheered the workers as we ran across. It gave us access to a dirt road that we like to run. Yay!
Linda and I gabbed for an easy 3.7 miles and then I hit our fields to make an even 5 miles for the day.
When Rick came home from work, there was no evidence of supper - not all that unusual, but, when he asked what I had in mind. I said, "nothing. I'm finished making supper. I've thought up everything, made it, and now I'm done." Well, since he still thought we should eat, we left Sam to fend for himself and went to Gritty's and had tasty bar food and a pitcher (pitcher's were the special - kismet!). A good end to a good day.
Linda and I gabbed for an easy 3.7 miles and then I hit our fields to make an even 5 miles for the day.
When Rick came home from work, there was no evidence of supper - not all that unusual, but, when he asked what I had in mind. I said, "nothing. I'm finished making supper. I've thought up everything, made it, and now I'm done." Well, since he still thought we should eat, we left Sam to fend for himself and went to Gritty's and had tasty bar food and a pitcher (pitcher's were the special - kismet!). A good end to a good day.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
New Jersey?
I won't complain too much cause I know there are some sleep and run-deprived people out there (Rick as well as the new parents), but I was bummed not to get a run in yesterday. I had every intention of hitting the fields since hunting season is almost here and then they'll be off limits except for Sundays. I just ran out of day.
So I made the most of today! According to Map My Run, I ran about 14 miles. I did the usual start: Back Cove, Eastern Prom, Commercial, High, Casco Bay Bridge, Ocean, and Cottage Rd. I met up with some of the other regulars - got my kisses from Will (a beautiful, friendly, old golden retriever with an owner that's nearly as delightful to meet up with).
Uncharacteristically, I went south on the Greenbelt walkway instead of north towards Bug Light. At first I was thinking it was a great decision. It reminded me of the bike trail portion of the Cox Marathon I ran with Ryan this spring. But, not more than 1/2 mile later, I was just running behind businesses. Pretty soon there were huge oil tanks and I felt like (sorry S. Portland) I was running in NJ. It even smelled like it, too! Won't make that turn again.
This next part is not for chocolate lover's who might empathize too readily....After I changed, bought my post-race treats, and prepared to enjoy, I realized I'd grabbed the wrong scone. The meager little wild blueberries scattered in scone weren't even recognizable to me at first. If I hadn't been anticipating the huge, dark chocolate chunks in my buttery scone, I might have enjoyed the caloric morsel....but I had. I will be more careful next time.
So I made the most of today! According to Map My Run, I ran about 14 miles. I did the usual start: Back Cove, Eastern Prom, Commercial, High, Casco Bay Bridge, Ocean, and Cottage Rd. I met up with some of the other regulars - got my kisses from Will (a beautiful, friendly, old golden retriever with an owner that's nearly as delightful to meet up with).
Uncharacteristically, I went south on the Greenbelt walkway instead of north towards Bug Light. At first I was thinking it was a great decision. It reminded me of the bike trail portion of the Cox Marathon I ran with Ryan this spring. But, not more than 1/2 mile later, I was just running behind businesses. Pretty soon there were huge oil tanks and I felt like (sorry S. Portland) I was running in NJ. It even smelled like it, too! Won't make that turn again.
This next part is not for chocolate lover's who might empathize too readily....After I changed, bought my post-race treats, and prepared to enjoy, I realized I'd grabbed the wrong scone. The meager little wild blueberries scattered in scone weren't even recognizable to me at first. If I hadn't been anticipating the huge, dark chocolate chunks in my buttery scone, I might have enjoyed the caloric morsel....but I had. I will be more careful next time.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Bug Light
Ran with my friend, Judy, in Portland (of course, it was Monday). We started down near the Cat Ferry Terminal, ran down Commercial, up High St, across the bridge, past Hannaford, and down a piece of the Greenbelt Trail to Bug Light and then back - about eight miles.
Judy had heard all about my Mon/Wed routine so we were off to Whole Foods to change and get goodies. I'm going to have to run further if those chocolate chunk scones become the permanent post-run snack! But what a reward! I think I yum with every bite.
Then we were off to work on Christmas gifts - already! Very unlike me, but the forced time in Portland gives me time and opportunity.
Judy had heard all about my Mon/Wed routine so we were off to Whole Foods to change and get goodies. I'm going to have to run further if those chocolate chunk scones become the permanent post-run snack! But what a reward! I think I yum with every bite.
Then we were off to work on Christmas gifts - already! Very unlike me, but the forced time in Portland gives me time and opportunity.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Pasta? Try Pork!
I have to rethink my pre-run meals. I had such a great run today. Was it the brats, beer, and pbb's (that would be peanut butter and bacon sandwiches) the night before? It certainly didn't hurt! Of course, the day was perfect for running. I wore shorts and a tee and was comfortable from start to finish. I think I did about eight miles on the mountain side of Bradbury. Instead of the Breaker course, I did the Fat Ass route. I wanted to include the little single-track loop that is off the Tote trail, but I missed it both times around. The leaves hid it pretty well.
There was no way to have dry feet today so I ended up just running right through the calf-deep puddles. Most were crystal clear so you could see the footing on the bottom. There were some that looked like artwork - covered with either a hodge-podge of golden leaves or golden pineneedles. Beautiful!
There was no way to have dry feet today so I ended up just running right through the calf-deep puddles. Most were crystal clear so you could see the footing on the bottom. There were some that looked like artwork - covered with either a hodge-podge of golden leaves or golden pineneedles. Beautiful!
Friday, October 23, 2009
Fields Before Floods
I decided I better run the fields today before the possible deluge tomorrow. We haven't had all that much rain lately and my course is already pretty saturated. I imagine if we get all the rain that they're predicting there may be ponds instead of bogs out there. So I got in a little over six miles.
On the hilly trails like Thorncrag or Bradbury I always turn my ball cap backwards to be able to see what's coming (not run into a tree or something). Today I had to turn my cap backwards so the sun would make me look down and actually pay attention to my footing. I had to resort to that cause the beauty of the day had me looking all around. I nearly sprained my ankle twice and got way muddier than I should have.
On the hilly trails like Thorncrag or Bradbury I always turn my ball cap backwards to be able to see what's coming (not run into a tree or something). Today I had to turn my cap backwards so the sun would make me look down and actually pay attention to my footing. I had to resort to that cause the beauty of the day had me looking all around. I nearly sprained my ankle twice and got way muddier than I should have.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Second Best
Yeah, you might think second best isn't good, but in this case it's great. I ran with Linda today at Thorncrag. She's been taking it pretty easy after a hard fall at Bradbury. She caught her foot under a root and couldn't do anything but fall flat....usually when I hear Linda trip, I immediately hear, "I'm alright" and she's popped up before I can even look back. That time when I looked back she was still face first on the ground and said something like "that one hurt". At least the root broke and not her ankle! She still finished our run, but her back has been acting a bit grumpy since then. She was actually a little tentative about running at Thorncrag, but set out any way.
The footing was slippery what with the wet leaves and technical trails, but neither of us fell. We did a little over 3.5 at a nice conversational pace. Both Linda and I are talkers so there was lots of conversation. We did a lot of scenery appreciation and talked of lots of other things that I can't even recall now, but it was all good.
While I was sitting home relaxing after supper, Linda called to tell me she thought that was her second favorite run ever. Maybe cause her back was fine, maybe cause the trail was so beautiful, maybe cause the run was, not effortless, but the right amount of effort. Yay for us!
The footing was slippery what with the wet leaves and technical trails, but neither of us fell. We did a little over 3.5 at a nice conversational pace. Both Linda and I are talkers so there was lots of conversation. We did a lot of scenery appreciation and talked of lots of other things that I can't even recall now, but it was all good.
While I was sitting home relaxing after supper, Linda called to tell me she thought that was her second favorite run ever. Maybe cause her back was fine, maybe cause the trail was so beautiful, maybe cause the run was, not effortless, but the right amount of effort. Yay for us!
Routine
Yup, I'm a creature of habit. I ran my usual Wednesday run and was perfectly happy doing so. For variety I ran 12 instead of 11 miles (really, I just was enjoying the weather and had the time). I was surprised heading back into Portland when the bridge was up again. There were three bike riders also stopped and we had a little chat. It's funny how I can think people in general are impolite and inconsiderate while out shopping or chauffeuring Sam somewhere, yet, out running I find people are friendly, helpful, and a joy to talk to. Is it my running attitude alters my perception? Maybe my non-running attitude colors those perceptions.
There were no 1/4 mile pick-ups in the last miles this time. I think the hills the day before had my legs a little leaden. I rewarded myself with a chocolate chunk scone from Whole Foods with a nice cold milk (even if I don't have food shopping to do, I buy something since I use there bathroom as my changing room).
There were no 1/4 mile pick-ups in the last miles this time. I think the hills the day before had my legs a little leaden. I rewarded myself with a chocolate chunk scone from Whole Foods with a nice cold milk (even if I don't have food shopping to do, I buy something since I use there bathroom as my changing room).
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Hitting the Hills
Went to Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary today. The foliage isn't quite at peak, but it's working on it. If I remember right, Thorncrag turns the most wonderful gold. It's almost brighter in the woods with the sun reflecting off all the leaves on the trees and lining the trail than in the clearings. There's no hunting there so I have lots of time to enjoy it!
I ran about six miles today at near 11 minute mile pace. For there, that's pretty good. The steepest trail (coming back from Whale Rock)seemed like Pathfinder's gravel pit today. It's always very steep, of course, but the added loose leaves in combo with the acorns acting like ballbearings made going harder than usual. I think I did all the big hills in the upward-direction at least once. A very good workout.
I ran about six miles today at near 11 minute mile pace. For there, that's pretty good. The steepest trail (coming back from Whale Rock)seemed like Pathfinder's gravel pit today. It's always very steep, of course, but the added loose leaves in combo with the acorns acting like ballbearings made going harder than usual. I think I did all the big hills in the upward-direction at least once. A very good workout.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Monday Means Portland
I have a standard run for Mondays and Wednesdays. Since I have to be in Portland while Sam takes classes, I've settled into a routine that I really enjoy. Today I was going to cut it a little short though, from 11 to 8 miles, to have some extra time for errands. I normally start at the back cove, head along Eastern Prom, thru the Old Port, and then across the bridge to S. Portland. There's a Hannaford at my turn around that's great for buying Gatorade and/or peeing.
It turned out to be nearly ideal running conditions today - bright sunshine, low 40's, crisp breeze. When I'd run about 3.5 miles, I was leaning toward running the whole 11. Since it's an out-and-back, I'd really only go 1.5 more before turning around - that's nothing! I guess I really was supposed to run 8. The bridge was up. I knew it had the capability, but had never seen it before. Ok. That meant I'd get to order my new Inov-8 Roclite 282's after all!!!
On my return trip, I stopped to talk to an old man watching the newest cruise ship approach the dock. I petted his cute white pooch and he told me that this was the 18th cruise ship this season. He'd counted them all. I was happy with myself for stopping to talk. It brought to mind a John Prine song called "Hello in There". In less than .5 miles, I ran into another older man walking an even older (in dog years) Irish Setter. I commented on his beautiful dog and asked if I could pet her. We had a wonderful conversation about his pup, my Spot dog,
and the joys of pet ownership. Before I set out, he made my day by telling me that one of the best things about walking his dog was having people like me stop to talk!
I did .25 mile pick-ups for the last 1.5 miles. Maybe it was because I was fresh from cutting the run short (and coming off a very low mileage week) or maybe cause I just was having such a great run. it felt good to push it a little.
It turned out to be nearly ideal running conditions today - bright sunshine, low 40's, crisp breeze. When I'd run about 3.5 miles, I was leaning toward running the whole 11. Since it's an out-and-back, I'd really only go 1.5 more before turning around - that's nothing! I guess I really was supposed to run 8. The bridge was up. I knew it had the capability, but had never seen it before. Ok. That meant I'd get to order my new Inov-8 Roclite 282's after all!!!
On my return trip, I stopped to talk to an old man watching the newest cruise ship approach the dock. I petted his cute white pooch and he told me that this was the 18th cruise ship this season. He'd counted them all. I was happy with myself for stopping to talk. It brought to mind a John Prine song called "Hello in There". In less than .5 miles, I ran into another older man walking an even older (in dog years) Irish Setter. I commented on his beautiful dog and asked if I could pet her. We had a wonderful conversation about his pup, my Spot dog,
and the joys of pet ownership. Before I set out, he made my day by telling me that one of the best things about walking his dog was having people like me stop to talk!I did .25 mile pick-ups for the last 1.5 miles. Maybe it was because I was fresh from cutting the run short (and coming off a very low mileage week) or maybe cause I just was having such a great run. it felt good to push it a little.
Back(b)log
I had kind of planned on writing at least a little about every run. So it looks like I have a bit of catching up to do. Thursday, the 14th, I ran almost a duplicate of Wednesday's run in the field - except it was a couple of minutes longer and I didn't have the wildlife bonus.
Friday I hit the fields again. Since the hunter wasn't out back (s/he parks in the driveway so I know), I planned on increasing the size of my loop. Some parts were very boggy, but I really had fun trying to jump from bog to bog as best I could, seeing how long I could keep my feet dry - takes me back to my childhood in the cow pastures of my uncle's farm. I didn't see any wildlife, but saw plenty of signs. My very unscientific observation suggests that, at this time of year, our coyotes are eating as much fruit as animals.
Saturday was a day off cause we drove down to Providence. Rick and I dropped Sam off to hang with Ryan while we caught the Brown v Princeton football game. I was frozen to the core by the end, but it was a great game if you were routing for Brown! We met back up with the kids and went to dinner.
Sunday I had planned to run on the hotel treadmill. Typically, I am up so early that it gives me something to do while I wait for the rest of the world to wake up. Even though I slept pretty good for me, I still had enough time before we were to pick up Sam. I just didn't want to. I told Rick I'd wait till we got home. It would mean missing the first part of the Giant game, but I got to run outside, off road. I should have kept running - the run was way better than the Giant game!
Friday I hit the fields again. Since the hunter wasn't out back (s/he parks in the driveway so I know), I planned on increasing the size of my loop. Some parts were very boggy, but I really had fun trying to jump from bog to bog as best I could, seeing how long I could keep my feet dry - takes me back to my childhood in the cow pastures of my uncle's farm. I didn't see any wildlife, but saw plenty of signs. My very unscientific observation suggests that, at this time of year, our coyotes are eating as much fruit as animals.
Saturday was a day off cause we drove down to Providence. Rick and I dropped Sam off to hang with Ryan while we caught the Brown v Princeton football game. I was frozen to the core by the end, but it was a great game if you were routing for Brown! We met back up with the kids and went to dinner.
Sunday I had planned to run on the hotel treadmill. Typically, I am up so early that it gives me something to do while I wait for the rest of the world to wake up. Even though I slept pretty good for me, I still had enough time before we were to pick up Sam. I just didn't want to. I told Rick I'd wait till we got home. It would mean missing the first part of the Giant game, but I got to run outside, off road. I should have kept running - the run was way better than the Giant game!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Rewarded
It's been a long time since I didn't feel like running, but that's how I felt yesterday. I've been kinda running a cold in the background for a while - it's like my immune system is just keeping it at bay, but not totally. I almost wish I'd just have it and get it over with. Even though it was exactly the weather I love to run in, I'd been feeling chilly all day and didn't want to change into running stuff. By 4pm, I realized if I didn't get out there it would be three zeros in a row in my book - That hadn't happened since my 50 at Pinelands.
Just changing is the hard part. The rest just happens. I decided to do the fields by our house because I had no desire to be on roads again. What a great decision! It wasn't very long before I was totally rewarded for getting my ass out there; I spotted three deer not too far off. They spotted me too. I stopped immediately and we just stared at each other for quite some time. I would have just kept staring, but the slight sweat I'd worked up combined with the slight breeze was giving me a chill so I moved. And I was rewarded a second time! I'm smiling now just thinking of the three of them bounding away - How beautiful!
Then I noticed my turkey family. I say they were mine cause I've been watching a hen raise her seven chicks all summer and this was a hen with seven teenage-looking chicks. I didn't know they traveled that far; I guess I have no idea the territory turkeys cover.
Besides being rewarded by just seeing the wildlife, I got to feel like I saved them. In the field directly behind us, I know a bow hunter was in her stand. It's not like I'm anti-hunting. If you're not a vegetarian, it seems to me the nicest way to get the meat. Those animals are truly free-range (good for them, good for you). However, when I meet an animal, it's like they become mine and I'll protect them. It was very nice they bounded off in the other direction. I'd have felt really bad if I drove them to their death!
At the end of my run I startled a Blue Heron. I have no idea why he was in the field and not at the pond. I've never seen one there. Guess we were both surprised.
I ran about 45 minutes and felt way better than when I headed out.
Just changing is the hard part. The rest just happens. I decided to do the fields by our house because I had no desire to be on roads again. What a great decision! It wasn't very long before I was totally rewarded for getting my ass out there; I spotted three deer not too far off. They spotted me too. I stopped immediately and we just stared at each other for quite some time. I would have just kept staring, but the slight sweat I'd worked up combined with the slight breeze was giving me a chill so I moved. And I was rewarded a second time! I'm smiling now just thinking of the three of them bounding away - How beautiful!
Then I noticed my turkey family. I say they were mine cause I've been watching a hen raise her seven chicks all summer and this was a hen with seven teenage-looking chicks. I didn't know they traveled that far; I guess I have no idea the territory turkeys cover.
Besides being rewarded by just seeing the wildlife, I got to feel like I saved them. In the field directly behind us, I know a bow hunter was in her stand. It's not like I'm anti-hunting. If you're not a vegetarian, it seems to me the nicest way to get the meat. Those animals are truly free-range (good for them, good for you). However, when I meet an animal, it's like they become mine and I'll protect them. It was very nice they bounded off in the other direction. I'd have felt really bad if I drove them to their death!
At the end of my run I startled a Blue Heron. I have no idea why he was in the field and not at the pond. I've never seen one there. Guess we were both surprised.
I ran about 45 minutes and felt way better than when I headed out.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Details
When Ryan decided he was going to run from Brown to Tufts, I immediately offered to be course aid. Ryan didn't want any support that would involve a vehicle in his journey. After lots of different suggestions, he decided that, if I happened to be visiting friends where I could run to meet him, it wouldn't violate the spirit of his run. Conveniently, I happen to have good friends who lived roughly eight miles off Ryan's course.
So Sunday I left the house a little after 5:30 a.m. heading to Medfield, MA. It was a beautiful day for a run or a drive for that matter. I wondered if Ryan got off on time (he planned on leaving at 6am). I didn't have to wonder long; he called at 6:10 asking if I were online to check something for him...He didn't realize that I was already in the car. I don't even remember what it was now that he wanted to know, but I don't think it was anything really important. If it were, he could have called home even at that hour! But at least I knew he'd set out on schedule.
I got to my friends' house a little after 8:30 and quickly checked in with Ryan. It sounded like I had time to change into my running clothes (proudly wearing my Trail Monster tee), have a cup of coffee and visit a bit before setting out. Time flies talking with fun people you haven't seen in a while. Pretty soon I needed to rush out. I had my Fuel Belt on with two 8 oz Gatorades for my run, a pouch with my cell phone, credit card, cash, and my map, a second pouch held a disposable camera (I'll post some pictures if any turned out), and a pbj in a baggie safety pinned to the back. I think the ease with which I adjusted to it bouncing off my butt makes me have to rethink my protests about wearing a sloshing CamelBak.
I hadn't gotten a half mile down the road (a very pretty, very twisty road with no shoulder) when a characteristically friendly golden retriever appeared in the middle of the road. She was very happy to see me and pretty sure she should accompany me. I tried being stern telling her to stay, then to go home, and then tried to just ignore her and run. Nope. She was definitely gonna follow. I looked at the beautiful houses that were along the road and didn't see anyone looking for her. There was no way I'd let my dog loose if I lived on this windy road. Ok, I called my friend and he said he'd come rescue me. When I went to put my phone back in my pouch, the map fell out and the dog grabbed it. It was entirely in her mouth. Evidently she didn't know the "drop it" command either. I tried to pry my way into her mouth, but needed to get my phone in the pouch to have two hands for the job. Her owner must keep treats in a pouch or pocket because she immediately focused on the pouch and released the map. I grabbed for it, but so did she. A tug-o-war, of sort, ensued. I got a good chunk of the map, but it was too soggy to be legible. OK - a new plan - using the fact that she obviously thought I had treats, I got her to sit. With her behaving for the treat, I was able (even without my glasses!) to read a tag on her that had a phone number and name. I called. It turned out that we were now right in front of Bonnie's house. My friend and her owner converged on us at the same time. I showed Mike my ruined map. Bonnie's person said I could come in and print out a new one, but at this point I was worried about time. I thought I could remember enough. As I set off, Mike yelled out, "Left, left, right, left!"
There really were no flats, but no big hills either. I guess I'd say it was rolling hills. It was a beautiful run. My only issue was that the longest part, maybe about 6 miles was along a pretty busy state route with no shoulder at all. I got to a fork in the road and wasn't sure which way to go. I called home. When I told Rick that a dog ate my map, he just said, "Huh?!" "Really. I'll tell you the whole story later. Where am I? and is it where I should be?" It took Rick a little bit to answer both questions. I just had to back track about a quarter of a mile and take the other road of the fork. Back on track I called Ryan. We figured he was a little bit back from our course intersection, but I would just run back to meet him. About 1.25 miles onto his course, I went into a Cumberland Farms and bought him a 20 oz Gatorade. As I got back to the street, I saw him heading toward me. I took out my camera and snapped of few shots.
He didn't have anything near as interesting as a dog eating his map, but he did have a few stories to tell. He liked the path he had followed earlier this summer when he'd run from a friend's house in N. Attleboro. I guess coming straight from Providence he ended up on a piece of route one that was like being on Rte. 495. In fact, he thought it had to have taken a wrong turn so got off at an exit and ended up on Rte. 495. He looked at the sign there and realized that he was indeed on Rte. 1. He was also very happy the Patriots didn't have a home game cause he ran across every one of the entrances to their parking.
I ran with him for about 2.5 miles. He had just finished his pbj, found a pizza joint to use the bathroom, and ran off. I took his picture running away. A little old couple was watching me so I told him what Ryan was doing. They wanted me to confirm that Brown was in Providence. And he was doing it all in one day. I was so proud; I'm surprised I didn't stop and tell more people!
I headed back to Mike and Kim's eager for a shower. My total trip ended up being just over 21 miles. Except for tender toes, I was in fine shape. After my shower, my friends saw to it that I had very yummy post run treats. As soon as I got confirmation that Sam was able to get our kitty in for the night (read: I could stay over), I let Mike pour me a wine to go with my lasagna.
Ryan called around 4pm to say he was just about there. He'd be with his friends from then on so I knew that I wouldn't hear from him till the next day.
I woke fairly early on Monday. I enjoyed a few cups of coffee before going with Mike to take their dogs for a walk before I headed out. Kim went to feed the animals at the Medfield Animal Shelter.
When their big pups (a Newfie and a St. Bernard) had their exercise, I loaded my gear up, thanked Mike and hit the road.
I waited till nearly 2pm before I called Ryan again. He picked up, but sounded pretty out of it. Turns out he'd been napping, but promised to call later. It wasn't till 10:30ish that I heard from him. He told me that, while it's always hard to start running again when taking a walking break, it's way harder to start running again when you only stop due to traffic.
He also ended up going a little further than he had planned; He had put in the address his friend at Tufts had given him for his end point (or at least he thought that's what she'd given him - it was actually a room number and dorm name, not a street number and street name). Interestingly enough, Google maps came back with a "did you mean this" address and, since it was the only street with a name close to what he'd input near/on the Tufts campus, he assumed that was it. When he was around 2 miles out he called his friends and they let him know he wasn't on course. After figuring out what happened, Kylee and Hannah told him they'd meet him on his current course. They had actually been his start line so they'd be his finish line also. When Ryan got close, Hannah took off towards the dorm. Ryan was able to sprint, even on those 45+ mile legs, and caught Hannah before she got to the dorm! His journey took 10hrs, 20 mins. He felt pretty good - no where near like he did after his marathon. Great job, Ryan!!
So Sunday I left the house a little after 5:30 a.m. heading to Medfield, MA. It was a beautiful day for a run or a drive for that matter. I wondered if Ryan got off on time (he planned on leaving at 6am). I didn't have to wonder long; he called at 6:10 asking if I were online to check something for him...He didn't realize that I was already in the car. I don't even remember what it was now that he wanted to know, but I don't think it was anything really important. If it were, he could have called home even at that hour! But at least I knew he'd set out on schedule.
I got to my friends' house a little after 8:30 and quickly checked in with Ryan. It sounded like I had time to change into my running clothes (proudly wearing my Trail Monster tee), have a cup of coffee and visit a bit before setting out. Time flies talking with fun people you haven't seen in a while. Pretty soon I needed to rush out. I had my Fuel Belt on with two 8 oz Gatorades for my run, a pouch with my cell phone, credit card, cash, and my map, a second pouch held a disposable camera (I'll post some pictures if any turned out), and a pbj in a baggie safety pinned to the back. I think the ease with which I adjusted to it bouncing off my butt makes me have to rethink my protests about wearing a sloshing CamelBak.
I hadn't gotten a half mile down the road (a very pretty, very twisty road with no shoulder) when a characteristically friendly golden retriever appeared in the middle of the road. She was very happy to see me and pretty sure she should accompany me. I tried being stern telling her to stay, then to go home, and then tried to just ignore her and run. Nope. She was definitely gonna follow. I looked at the beautiful houses that were along the road and didn't see anyone looking for her. There was no way I'd let my dog loose if I lived on this windy road. Ok, I called my friend and he said he'd come rescue me. When I went to put my phone back in my pouch, the map fell out and the dog grabbed it. It was entirely in her mouth. Evidently she didn't know the "drop it" command either. I tried to pry my way into her mouth, but needed to get my phone in the pouch to have two hands for the job. Her owner must keep treats in a pouch or pocket because she immediately focused on the pouch and released the map. I grabbed for it, but so did she. A tug-o-war, of sort, ensued. I got a good chunk of the map, but it was too soggy to be legible. OK - a new plan - using the fact that she obviously thought I had treats, I got her to sit. With her behaving for the treat, I was able (even without my glasses!) to read a tag on her that had a phone number and name. I called. It turned out that we were now right in front of Bonnie's house. My friend and her owner converged on us at the same time. I showed Mike my ruined map. Bonnie's person said I could come in and print out a new one, but at this point I was worried about time. I thought I could remember enough. As I set off, Mike yelled out, "Left, left, right, left!"
There really were no flats, but no big hills either. I guess I'd say it was rolling hills. It was a beautiful run. My only issue was that the longest part, maybe about 6 miles was along a pretty busy state route with no shoulder at all. I got to a fork in the road and wasn't sure which way to go. I called home. When I told Rick that a dog ate my map, he just said, "Huh?!" "Really. I'll tell you the whole story later. Where am I? and is it where I should be?" It took Rick a little bit to answer both questions. I just had to back track about a quarter of a mile and take the other road of the fork. Back on track I called Ryan. We figured he was a little bit back from our course intersection, but I would just run back to meet him. About 1.25 miles onto his course, I went into a Cumberland Farms and bought him a 20 oz Gatorade. As I got back to the street, I saw him heading toward me. I took out my camera and snapped of few shots.
He didn't have anything near as interesting as a dog eating his map, but he did have a few stories to tell. He liked the path he had followed earlier this summer when he'd run from a friend's house in N. Attleboro. I guess coming straight from Providence he ended up on a piece of route one that was like being on Rte. 495. In fact, he thought it had to have taken a wrong turn so got off at an exit and ended up on Rte. 495. He looked at the sign there and realized that he was indeed on Rte. 1. He was also very happy the Patriots didn't have a home game cause he ran across every one of the entrances to their parking.
I ran with him for about 2.5 miles. He had just finished his pbj, found a pizza joint to use the bathroom, and ran off. I took his picture running away. A little old couple was watching me so I told him what Ryan was doing. They wanted me to confirm that Brown was in Providence. And he was doing it all in one day. I was so proud; I'm surprised I didn't stop and tell more people!
I headed back to Mike and Kim's eager for a shower. My total trip ended up being just over 21 miles. Except for tender toes, I was in fine shape. After my shower, my friends saw to it that I had very yummy post run treats. As soon as I got confirmation that Sam was able to get our kitty in for the night (read: I could stay over), I let Mike pour me a wine to go with my lasagna.
Ryan called around 4pm to say he was just about there. He'd be with his friends from then on so I knew that I wouldn't hear from him till the next day.I woke fairly early on Monday. I enjoyed a few cups of coffee before going with Mike to take their dogs for a walk before I headed out. Kim went to feed the animals at the Medfield Animal Shelter.
When their big pups (a Newfie and a St. Bernard) had their exercise, I loaded my gear up, thanked Mike and hit the road.
I waited till nearly 2pm before I called Ryan again. He picked up, but sounded pretty out of it. Turns out he'd been napping, but promised to call later. It wasn't till 10:30ish that I heard from him. He told me that, while it's always hard to start running again when taking a walking break, it's way harder to start running again when you only stop due to traffic.
He also ended up going a little further than he had planned; He had put in the address his friend at Tufts had given him for his end point (or at least he thought that's what she'd given him - it was actually a room number and dorm name, not a street number and street name). Interestingly enough, Google maps came back with a "did you mean this" address and, since it was the only street with a name close to what he'd input near/on the Tufts campus, he assumed that was it. When he was around 2 miles out he called his friends and they let him know he wasn't on course. After figuring out what happened, Kylee and Hannah told him they'd meet him on his current course. They had actually been his start line so they'd be his finish line also. When Ryan got close, Hannah took off towards the dorm. Ryan was able to sprint, even on those 45+ mile legs, and caught Hannah before she got to the dorm! His journey took 10hrs, 20 mins. He felt pretty good - no where near like he did after his marathon. Great job, Ryan!!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
Better than Expected
I wasn't looking forward to anything special today as far as a run - perhaps just a repeat of yesterday. Then I saw on Jamie's blog that he was going to be in Lewiston today for a conference and trying to figure out a good way to get his run in. I suggested he try Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary with me. I'm so glad he took me up on it. I love to introduce people to running there. It's so unexpected to find such a gem in the middle of Lewiston. It's challenging and beautiful. About the only thing that could be better would be if it were bigger. We did almost all of the trails and I think Jamie's gps said 4.4 miles. Still, you can run them in opposite direction and in varying combinations.
I enjoyed reading Jamie's description of our run. Mine is much the same except for me it wasn't a leisurely pace; I think it's the fastest I've ever run there. Linda said I couldn't have been running all that hard if Jamie and I talked the entire way; I can ALWAYS talk!
Tomorrow I'm volunteering at the Craig's Cup 5k. It will also be a day off from running since I might be running about 20 miles the next day to support my son Ryan on his run from Brown to Tufts (Providence, RI to Medford, MA....about 46 miles)!!!
I enjoyed reading Jamie's description of our run. Mine is much the same except for me it wasn't a leisurely pace; I think it's the fastest I've ever run there. Linda said I couldn't have been running all that hard if Jamie and I talked the entire way; I can ALWAYS talk!
Tomorrow I'm volunteering at the Craig's Cup 5k. It will also be a day off from running since I might be running about 20 miles the next day to support my son Ryan on his run from Brown to Tufts (Providence, RI to Medford, MA....about 46 miles)!!!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Good Excuse
Today I ran for about 45 minutes in the newly bush-hogged fields by my house. Though that's about as short of a run as I do anymore, it was by no means an easy run. The rain from the day before had made a bog out of lots of my path. The fields absorb a lot of your energy anyway. It was great!
Running is also a great excuse for some alone time when you have guests. I love my in-laws, but I also love to steal away legitimately. I do the same when I go to my dad's. In fact, those are usually long runs!
Running is also a great excuse for some alone time when you have guests. I love my in-laws, but I also love to steal away legitimately. I do the same when I go to my dad's. In fact, those are usually long runs!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
First post
I saw only one other runner on my Portland run today. I was kinda psyched to say that I was the only one out there on this cold, rainy day and then this other woman came into view. I thought that I would easily overtake her - she seemed so slow. I should know by now that some of the fastest people look slow - effortless. She just kept getting farther and farther ahead. I disliked her more as the gap between us grew. I admit to not being very nice this morning. I decided she hadn't been running nearly as long as I had. It took me a while to realize I didn't like my attitude; I should appreciate the only other person to brave the weather. Usually there are so many people out on the Back Cove and Eastern Prom. I'm even on a first name basis with some of the dogs!
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