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.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
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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