Delay in Plans

We got up early this morning and went to run with the club folks. It was windy as heck and cool. Ran 7 miles at an easy pace but it felt good and I enjoyed getting to visit with friends.

Our plan was to get home, get things cleaned up, pack, take showers, then pick up Virginia (Tanner's girlfriend) from the airport and head out to New Mexico. But fate had a different plan for us and Virginia's flight was cancelled because of storms between DFW and Abilene, she then got on a flight to San Angelo that was eventually cancelled because of the storm. Finally she got on a flight to Abilene that was cancelled because the wind was blowing so bad here the plan could not land.

Eventually she and three other folks rented a car and drove from DFW to Abilene but her bags have not arrived because every flight so far has cancelled. Hopefully it will get here before tomorrow so we can get on the road.

I am looking forward to running in Ruidoso, looks like the weather will be nice.

Happy New Year!

Clean up

I got up early this morning and went to the park to run with my brother. A good 5 miles while chatting with my little bro. It was a good run.

Home to stretch and then say goodbye as Sid had to leave to go back to Dallas.

It took Terry some time to get up and the kids even longer so I began the process of cleaning the "after Christmas mess".

We are going to Ruidoso to see our parents and other family tomorrow and will be there a full week. Before we go the house has to be ready to show, just in case someone wants to see it. I pray it will show and we will get an offer while we are gone. Because someone might come to check it out everything had to be cleaned up.

It's hard to get everything cleaned up with you have two college kids with stuff everywhere and no place to put it! But with everyone's help we got it all done and the place looks good. Tree and other Christmas decorations are gone and the house is back to normal.

Seven miles tomorrow then off to Ruidoso. I will not have my computer so I won't be blogging for a week...see you soon.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas fellow runners. I hope that you are blessed as we head into the next year. I know many of us are suffering from running burn out or races we are not happy with (we know who we are), keep in mind that we have many days ahead. Rest your weary bones and do what you must to get yourself well, things will then fall into place. Easy for me to say isn't it? Remember I was just there myself.

Having taken a short hiatus and adding cross training of lots of different kinds back into my training, I must say I feel stronger. This may not mean I will run faster and that's OK, it does mean that I will feel stronger and happier and enjoy running again. If you haven't tried making some changes like this, you should think about it for the coming year. And definitely try Yoga.

I ran yesterday, mostly to work off the cookie dough I ate when making sugar cookies. It went well and I felt good...until the digestive monster got me. I can't blame him, I mean really...TONS of cookie dough and then a run the next morning???? He had a right to bite me in the @$$.

I did feel better after the run, and then that little voice in me started saying "you really want that chocolate pecan pie, you can't live without the brownie and milk, shouldn't you eat another yummy sugar cookie?" And so I did. By the time we went to bed Mrs. Clause was sicker than a reindeer on bad berries! A little GasX with Maalox helped and so slumber came.

Today? Well today I am eating lighter, I believe I am over the temptation (and most of the sweets are gone). I am making some other sweets for particular folks in the family who have made requests. Luckily I am so sick of sugar I feel sure I can resist ;) .

Christmas Baking...and EATING

Oh my! Do you all remember the little girl in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, the one who grew into a huge blueberry?

Well that is how I feel tonight...like a big huge blown up round piece of dough. That is because I ate so much sugar cookie dough I feel like I am going to explode. Not to mention licking the bowl from the pecan pie and eating a homemade cinnamon roll.

I am sure you can see that much of my holiday season is filled with baking sweets. Funny thing about me is I will eat the dough and batter but not the baked goods. I like it all raw...so I make myself sick before the items are actually done!

Tomorrow I must run, run, run. I have to do something about this build up of sugar in my body. I should have been one of Santa's elves...they live on sugar. I'm a hard worker and I can live on sugar :) and I am short too. Maybe there is a career for me at the North Pole.

New Plan

I now have a new plan for running the Cowtown Half Marathon. I have 8 weeks to get ready and have a new plan in hand. Running plus 3 days of cross training (one of those days both cross training and running). I am not sure what type of cross training I will be doing, the coach has not given me details, but I plan to keep up with strength training and yoga at the very least.

As mentioned before I will not go to Cowtown in an aggressive state, this is a "medal" race. I want that medal and therefore I will run.

I am feeling excited again and I like this new training approach, it is much more like my training at the beginning of my running days.

Today I will go out without my Garmin again, hopefully with my daughter who doesn't really like to run but wants to burn some calories!

I also noticed on the message board for our club that someone in Granbury is organizing a 5K and 10K race there! Good to know someone there is excited about running. Hopefully we will be moved by the time of the race and anyone who wants to can stay with us and run the inaugural event!

More later...

Run after 30 Day Hiatus

My 30 days hiatus from running is over. Today I ran 5 miles at the park with the running club crowd.

And for those of you who understand I did something absolutely nuts for me...I DID NOT wear my Garmin! I know you are all amazed... and it was a wonderful run.

The only little issue I had was my hamstrings, they are very tight. This could be because Thursday I did strength training and of course my body is not used to running again, at least not yet.

All in all it was a good run and it was fun to visit with the group many of whom just ran the Whiterock Marathon or Half Marathon in Dallas. Not to mention the beautiful sunrise.

I will now begin "training" and I say that loosely, for the Cowtown Half Marathon in February. I am really doing this race for the medal. Of course it is a 5 year comittment to either the half or the full or a combination. Then you end up with this really big medal after the 5 years is up. Because this is the first year I am determined to do this race so I can be in on the fun! I am not worried about time so my training will really be only to make sure I can run the distance without injury...at only 13.1 I should be able to do that pretty easily.

Well it's almost Christmas and I need to get the cards out.

To anyone who reads this posting, I hope your Christmas is full of blessings and your New Year starts out better than last year.

Time Not Running

I've had some comments that my blog needs some updating, a new posting. Well as I mentioned in the last blog I'm not running for 30 days. This is a blog about RUNNING and I am not RUNNING.

The name of my blog is "My Love/Hate Relationship with Running" so I guess I should update how I'm not running and how my relationship with running if evolving again.

I am enjoying not having the pressure of training. When I look back on it it has been almost 2 and 1/2 years of training, taking out the month or so of rest when I hurt my knee. Getting ready to qualify for Boston and then the knee, rest, then training for San Antonio, it's been awhile since I've just enjoyed myself!

So what am I doing instead? Walking (briskly), Yoga, strength training, arc trainer, elliptical, I may add swimming at some point.

I love getting back to cross training and have found a new love...Yoga. It's such a wonderful body and soul exercise and yet it REALLY works you out. Especially the core. It's a great addition to my cross training.

My next adventure is when we move I will take rowing lessons. It is a great workout for your legs and core and I can't think of anything more beautiful than rowing on the river in the peace of the morning.

So will I run again? Well I did do the Christmas fun run and it was a good run.

My plan is to start again right after Christmas that will be a little over 30 days. This time I will not give up my cross training, it is making me stronger.

For now my plan is to run the Cowtown Half Marathon on February with no time goal in mind, just doing it for fun and because I WANT THAT COOL MEDAL!

Well that is enough for today I'll try to be better about keeping up.

Turkey Trot with family

What a great day. I felt awful when I went to bed last night. My head was throbbing, and I could not breathe all night. I got only 2 hours of sleep and almost didn't get up for the Turkey Trot.

But with all the family running and the opportunity to run with Taryn (my daughter) I made myself rise and shine. And I am so happy that I did.

I ran this race with Taryn and allowed her to choose the pace. We started off a good pace first mile, went a little slower the second when she stayed back with a friend, and the last mile she took off and it was quite a bit faster to finish at :32. Not a bad time for her first race. And it was so much fun. With Sid (my brother and her uncle) and me and Taryn finishing exactly at the same time, a decision we made right before we hit the mat.

This was a great way to start the day and I am so happy to have been a part of such a neat race. The club did a wonderful job putting this together and the chip timing made it even better. I'm already looking foward to next year although we most likely won't be here :(

As far as being thankful, I must say that I am so thankful for my family, my friends, the health to run and exercise and for the opportunity to run a race like this surrounded by family.

Terry got a new PR for a 5K with the help of Tanner (our son) who paced him for the race. He is getting faster all the time. I think it was great for them to run together and for Tanner to help him reach his goal. What a great family we have.

Something New

Went to the doctor yesterday. I had a list of questions for Chad, the doctor (he is also a very fast runner). The questions really stemmed around what I should do going forward. Is my knee healthy enough, am I strong enough, why am I having so much trouble etc...

He is such a good friend as well as a great doctor and he gave me a new prescription. As he spoke I realized it was true. I am not having fun running, I worked for two years in order to try to qualify for Boston and then got hurt. Should have laid off for some time, done some other things, but instead went right back into training to try and do something to make myself not be so down about being hurt. Two injuries later and one marathon later it is easy to see the wrong decision. As Chad put it I am tired both physically and mentally. And I've given up all of my cross training and that has not been good for me.

The prescription is 30 days off of running. Turn toward other types of exercise, go back to strength training, swim, spin, do yoga...spend some time away from running but doing other things that can give you the release and when I am ready I will know. He insists that when I come back my body will be better healed, stronger from cross training, and my mind will be free and ready to run for fun not to try to prove something.

And so I lifted yesterday, yoga today, will run the Turkey Trot on Thursday and then I am off to find other things to give me that high. I've never done yoga and I have to tell you it was wonderful! So different, slow paced but a such a workout. The core workout is amazing. I plan to continue the yoga along with spinning and swimming. Wow, there is a world out there that does not include running!

I'm happy to get back to my old self and I know it is true, when I get back to it I will be ready and I feel sure I will reach further in my running than I've ever been. In the meantime I am going to enjoy the adventure.

Post Marathon

Flew to Colorado on Monday after the marathon. I was pretty sore and sitting that much on the airplanes made me reall stiff.

I got up Monday morning and walked about a mile and 1/2 to the coffee/bagel shop up the street from the hotel. That felt good except for my left foot which feels bruised.

I was stiff at work all Monday. Tuesday I got up and walked again a little further and then on Tuesday night I had a massage. That really helped!

From that point forward I felt pretty good except for my foot.

Every morning I walked from a mile and 1/2 to two miles as briskly as possible. I love the crisp cold snowy weather and it felt really good to walk and not run.

Today (Saturday) I ran 3 slow miles but that too felt good again except for my foot. I am just not sure what the heck happened there. My knee also swelled a little today and hurt in the backside behind my kneecap which worries me some, I may go visit with Dr. Chad and see that it's ok before I move forward.

My plan for now is to train for the Cowtown Half Marathon and if my knee is ok to try and run it in a decent time. I also want to do the 3M half for fun, easy and enjoy.

I am also going to begin on Monday with strength training for runners, get myself in better shape. I used to strength train all the time but when I started the Boston training I let it go...I think that hurt me.

Enough for today, I am looking forward to the Turkey Trot on Thursday!

Marathon Blues

Well, it's done, it's over, thank goodness.

This was the worst race I've ever run. I've never run while being hurt and now I know what it feels like.

I trained well, my speedwork was right on target, my long runs under my belt. During those long runs my knee would swell and that made it tough but because I was able to go slower I could make it through. I thought it would be ok but I was less than confident.

From the very beginning I felt sluggish. My legs just wouldn't move, but I thought it was because it was cold and it usually takes a few miles to get warmed up so I thought I could stay with it. But I never could get my pace together. I didn't set my Garmin correctly so I wasted time trying to get that fixed, what good it did me!

At mile 5 my stomach acted up, I waited as long as possible and finally found a port a potty that had no line and stopped there...that was 5 minutes.

I knew then my goal was shot so I decided, ok a 4:30 is ok, I will be ok with that. Coming off of my injury, knowing that the doc said it would take over a year for it to not bother me when I run.

At about mile 10 I could feel it swelling and I never could get my pace, I wanted to stop at every medical tent and ask them to take me to the finish, I've never wanted to quit anything more than I wanted to quit this race. when the half people split I started to follow them, but decided to try to keep going.

As I got further into the race my knees continued to lock up, and around 20 my claves began to cramp, especially the the left one. I would try to run and it would feel like the muscle was going to pop out of my skin. I would walk a bit then run some more. Eventually it worked itself out some and I could hobble along but my pace continued to slow.

At this point I was in tears. I did not know if I could go 5.2 more miles. Crying off and on I continued to push. I got my shuffle out thinking that music might motivate me, alas it did not. I would hobble along, walk some and cry. My knee and my claves just got worse. My feet hurt too, worse than I ever remember.

I did continue on and about the last mile I was able to hobble and not walk. As I started toward the finish the kids and Terry were there yelling for me and I started crying hard, it was so emotional, I was so miserable and frustrated and upset and there they were, still yelling for me.

The finish was frustrating, I've always been able to push at the end but this was like dragging my own body behind me.

In the end 4:50...how depressing, when the goal was 4:15. All the training and preparation for what?

Now I keep going over and over in my mind what happened. Over training? Under training? Did I spend 2 years training to qualify for Boston only to break myself down so much after tearing my meniscus that I can't even run what I know I should be capable of? Or is it a matter of different training? Or is it just a matter of time? I know it will take a long time before my knee is well, but what is wrong with the rest of me? 4:50 isn't really a bad time or anything it's just that I know I can do better and it was SOOOOO MISERABLE. I've never in my life felt that way.

So what do I do now?

Four Days

Four days until the first Rock n Roll San Antonio Marathon. I am feeling strong and ready for the race.

The taper is tough though. While I know I need the rest I am in that mode where I feel sluggish and lazy. Afraid I am gaining weight, stressed because I am not running as much so that outlet is gone, and yet I know it has to be this way.

Sunday I will be happy I had the taper and took it seriously!

I am excited to see the kids, I feel like I haven't seen them in forever. And Tanner's girlfriend will be there too, it is going to be so much fun. I feel like it's a huge party!

Now if I can just get this race under my belt and do it well.

Cold Run

Sometimes it is so hard to get up when it's really cold out. In Colorado Springs last week it was pretty chilly at 6 AM. If you read my last blog you know I had a tough time getting by butt out the door. But I did it!

The run was good, very cold but it felt great. I love the cold dry air. It does however make it hard to run until I get pretty warmed up. My lungs hurt a bit but in the end it was wonderful. The crisp, dry, cold air is so refreshing.

I've been running there for so long now that I know the other runners because I see them a few times a week. Now we exchange more then just hello. It's becoming more like home and that is fun.

I do have to mention this one man. I passed him the last time I was there and again this week. It was 22 with a windchill of 16 Thursday. The last time I saw him it was 31. This man both times was running in just short black shorts, shoes of course, but no shirt, no tights. This time he did have gloves on. When people see him they look at him as if he is crazy, but he is very pleasant and always says hello. He has a beautiful black lab that follows him keeping perfect pace behind him. I was less fabergasted when it was 31, but Thursday it is VERY cold, crazy man.

The other thing I enjoy about running on the trail there are the dogs. Everyone brings their dogs, no leashes, and they run or walk with their humans. Occassionally they run over to someone else on the trail just to say good morning with their cold nose on the hand and sometimes they play together for a bit before going on.

There is one dog in particular I really enjoy seeing every morning. The trail runs along the river and on the west side is Piked Peak. On the East side in this one part there is a wide flat area and then a pretty steep hill with lots of trees, pretty forrested, and at the top are some homes that you can't really see for the trees. In this one particular place every morning this big black dog sits at the bottom of this hill. He is friendly, in no way "guarding" the area, he just sits there watching us all go by. He doesn't go out to meet the other dogs but if they come up to him he acknoweldges them and they go on, as if they are saying good morning. I assume his home is up the hill and he just enjoys coming down in the mornings to see what's going on. I've never seen his human but I say good morning to him every time I go by!

Running allows us all some amazing experiences even if they are simple ones.

Cold Out

It's 22 outside. It's 5:40. I am dressed to run. I want the comfort of my big comfy hotel bed.

But I will push myself out the door in the freezing cold and run my easy 5 miles and enjoy it. This is what I keep telling myself.

I was really dissappointed when the people in the room next to me also got up at 5 because they woke me up several times in the night laughing. So I had this plan to get up at 5 and be loud just to make them mad. Oh well, probably better that it didn't happen. Although right now I don't hear them, maybe they went back to sleep, I could yell and beat on the wall now just to be mean. Nah, they area just kids (well teenagers I think) and their laughing was kinda funny last night. So I'll let it go.

Ok it's time, time to face the frost, to freeze my butt, to burn my lungs and to have a GREAT run. I'll let you know how it goes.

Politcial Thoughts

We all awoke today to a historic time in our lives. A time we will someday talk to our grandchildren about. The election when an African American man became our president.

This man has the opportunity to bring this country together, to break down the barriers between color of skin, to break down the barriers between political parties. The expectation of his term is high. Higher than any president since I've been alive.

People do not like change, even when that change will bring about good things. It is uncomfortable to step out of what is normal in our lives and into something that feels different. While some will be overjoyed at this change they will also begin to understand that it holds them to a higher standard. No longer can any of us live with a chip on our shoulder. No longer can we be apathetic toward what is happening in our great country. This change shows us that we as a body of people can make things happen when we work together.

It will not be easy in my opinion. I feel that there will be pockets of racial fighting, that African Americans will somehow think things will be better for them without working together to make it better and that Anglo Americans will continue to think that they are superior and will refuse to work together. There are too many ignorant people in our country, but it is a free country and they are free to be idiots if that is what they choose to be.

My hope is that this man who I believe really does want change, really does want us all to work together in this melting pot we call America, really does want to make a difference for a united group of people, will rise up and show that he is above the petty fighting, that he shows grace toward all, that he leads us all into a common good for our country. That he brings to this position a great understanding of what it's like to live, work, play, and die next to your neighbor who could be someone who's origin is not on our shores but who's family came here to find a better life.

I hope that he will rise above all of the special interest groups who plague the government now and those who now will think they have a "place" in his audience simply because he is African American.

I feel he is a strong man, a tough man, an intelligent man, a compassionate man, and I will do my part to stand by my president.

I did not vote for Obama, but in reality I am now excited at the possibility of change for my children and their children. I will work hard to do the things my president asks of us as Americans to unify this country in any way possible. I hope you will do the same.

Run Fat Boy Run

We rented this movie tonight "Run Fat Boy Run" and it being a British comedy I was not sure how much I would like it.

The story is that a man decides to run the London Marathon to get his girl back.

This movie is hysterical! If you are a runner and if you've run a marathon or know anything about running a marathon you will be laughing your butt off!

You don't want to watch it with your young kids so be prepared.

I think it's worth a pre-race party to get together and watch this movie!

My Last Long Run!

This day is the day that most marathoners are ready to get under their belt. The last long run before the race. All the training culminates with the last long run and then it's time to taper, rest, and be careful to eat right and not get sick so that on race day you go to the starting line healthy and excited!

I am so glad mine is over. Not that it was a terrible run, it was ok, but both knees are feeling tight and swollen so ice is on them as I write.

It occurred to me that this is the furthest I've run in 6 years! While I've run in a lot of half marathons it's been 6 years since I ran a full marathon and last year it was at this point when I tore my miniscus 3 weeks before the Houston marathon.

I am very nervous about the race. I would really like to do at least what I've run for the last two I ran, but I was younger then. I am trying to just enjoy doing the race and not allow myself to feel too much pressure. We will see how it goes.

I am excited because all the family plus lots of friends will be there. I think it will be so much fun!

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that when I did my 800's at the track on Thursday morning I saw three falling stars! Wow it was really cool, and three wishes, that's even better!

Ok - nap time :)

Shin Splints gone

Well in a previous post I mentioned that I had shin splints after my long run last Saturday. Well I took Tuesday off and went out for a 4 mile easy run and then did my mile repeats on Thursday and my shins were fine. I guess they were just a little tired. I did do the exersizes that Shisu posted and iced so I think that helped. Thanks!

This is a recovery week for me and I think I really needed it. Ran 10 on Saturday with no walk breaks and at a pretty good pace and it felt good!

Saturday night Terry and I went to Stephenville for a party at his boss's ranch. Because we all promised that "what happens at the ranch stays at the ranch" I am unable to speak of it further.

I am home for the next two weeks which is nice and ran Monday and today and I feel great! It has been absolutely beautiful in the mornings.

I can't wait until Thursday morning, I don't even have to go to Colorado to get some cold weather! YEA! 800's in 30 degrees AWESOME.

Well nothing profound for me today. I hope you all have great runs this week.

Shin Splints

After 20 Saturday, left shin, ran today anyway, it's worse. Rest tomorrow :( Will try to pick it up later in the week.

I'm bummed.

Colorado Springs and my 20 miler

I was in Colorado again last week and will be again next week. As you all know if you've read my blogs I love the cool dry air, however it is staying darker later in the mornings and out there on the trail I love it is PITCH dark. I took my head light last week, but even then it's a little scary. I'm not so worried about people, although I only saw one person last week so I went up to the street and ran downtown. Wildlife is a little more of an issue, especially because they've been seeing mountain lions in the area.

When training this causes some issues. I'm not sure what to do next week but I bet I will figure it out.

I did have a wonderful run through downtown and the neighborhoods that surround downtown. The homes are so pretty and it's quiet and quaint. And FLAT. It was invigorating, it was 37 degrees, crips and cold. I wore shorts although I did have long sleeves and gloves and an ear band. I think it's interesting how the people from Colorado Springs will be all bundled up and there I am in my shorts...that seems wrong!

On Thursday it was back to the junior high dirt track to do 800's. This week it was tough, maybe because I've been home for 3 weeks. My lungs just didn't want to work! This too was in the dark for the first few, by the time I got to 9 it was sunup and Pike's Peak shone like a beacon above the changing aspens. Which by the way are beautiful. The mountains are speckled with green, gold, and red. Spots of aspens between the pines. It is an amazing sight all through the day but especially in the morning when the sun shines on the mountains.

More to come after next week.

I ran 20 miles today, ran the Worldwide Half for 13 of that run. My pace was just where I wanted to be so that is good. I struggle with not turning off my watch, it always looks so slow, but at least then it is really accurate time spent out there so that's what I do. And I do like to chat at the bench! I enjoyed the time with Sid and Molly, as well as my cute hubby! I was tired, anytime I fly and then run the next day I struggle so I was tired but it was a good run nonetheless. And I am glad it is over!

I'm going to miss the running club when we move...sigh...but there will be a new group to meet and then we will expand our running network. IF we ever move.

Doesn't someone out there need a nice home? Ours is still for sale!

Rambling

It's Sunday, a rest day for me. I enjoy my rest days emmensly, in fact one of the reasons I run is for my rest days.

This week was a good week running. Monday and Tuesday were good natural pace runs and Thursday I did 10 miles at race pace with walk breaks and did well. It was a good workout but not a killer and helps me to learn how to judge my running time so that I can do the walks and make it all come out to the right time.

Saturday I had 18 and to be honest I was dreading it. My 16 miler not long ago was really hard so I had this fear that the 18 would be really tough. And yet it wasn't. Maybe the difference was the heat. The day I ran my 16 it was warm and humid, yesterday was cool and breezy. The 18 miles felt really good and I am not sore at all, not from running, only from lifting on Friday.

I am really struggling with doing the walk breaks. I REALLY want to just run but I also want to try it this way and see if it makes a difference in how I feel, how I finish. I can always try something different the next time around.

I think part of my struggle is that I percieve what others think and are saying behind my back. I catch the little comments here and there..."a walk/run?" or "who's plan are you following". I want to be successful doing it this way to show people that it can be done, that I can run the same time as someone who does not take walk breaks, I know Galloway's studies show it can be done and I know many people who have done it and done it fast. I think I am frustrated with those I percieve are just waiting to see if I fail. Then they can say that this type of training and running marathons is wrong, that it doesn't work. I am determined to prove them wrong.

Then again maybe it's an internal struggle with how I view myself. This is something I need to work on. Some day I want to be able to run my best without feeling like I am missing some great secret to being better than I am.

Well enough of that. I am off to Colorado Springs tomorrow for work, I love running there and I am sure I will get over this little funk I am in tonight!

Have a wonderful week of running.

COOL Mornings

I love these nice cool mornings! It's amazing how refreshing it feels to run when it's nice and cool out. Today although still a little tired from Saturday's 10K was a great run.

I get a little sad when I start to think that I will have to leave at some point. I know everyone at the park, if not by name then by face and we all say hello as we pass, and those I know better we chat, talk about our last run, and share how things are going...great way to start a day. I hope I find people in Granbury who will talk to me.

Something else I've taken up, because of a friend of mine, is picking up the trash while I'm running. He walks early and always picks up trash as he walks. One day I saw him doing this and I thought "that is something I can do to help our environment". And so I do. I have to stop yes, but it's only for a moment and then I run a few extra steps to a trash can and whala the park is cleaner before anyone is even up and moving (other than those of us at the park).

It really doesn't take too much at all, try it some day and see :)

This Week of Running

Well another week of running has come and gone. This week was actually a bit of a down week with the culmination of the Balloon Fest 10K. I really hate doing races when I am doing them, but when they are over I love them. I am sure many feel the same way.

Today was a beautiful day, and it was great watching all of the balloons take off. WOW! They were so pretty. The temperature was good and the wind was calm and Rich and Patrizia did a wonderful job. Honestly I am amazed at what a great race this was.

There was one little glich, it seems my chip did not accurately record my time. I know, I know, you all are saying "yeah right", but it is true. I ran with my friend Amy for the entire race...no one between us. She came in at 54:16 and I was seconds behind her (yes she kicked by butt at the end), I had 54:20. There was no one between us it was really a race between the two of us except that she was too far out for me to catch. Terry came in over a minute behind me (one of his best times though, he did great). When we got the official results there was a woman in my age group between Amy's time and then it had mine at 55:20 ish or something. So in those results she was between me and Amy. And yet there was no one between me and Amy, and I remember passing this woman. And it also showed Terry coming in before me when he was a minute behind me, so who knows what happened.

At first it really bugged me and as you can tell I am posting my REAL time here, but in reality there are flaws in everything and it got me to thinking. This was chip timing and it still had flaws. The many times we have done races as a running club using Terry P's software or doing it by hand and we still have not had too many mess ups, one here and there, but still about the same as this chip system. I think we have done pretty well.

It amazing how much we are growing and indeed it is time to have chip timing for the bigger races...it must make it so much easier on the race directors and I know it does on the volunteers who usually get sucked into doing the timing! So if anyone knows of anyone who may be interested in donating some money for chip timing for the Thanksgiving Turkey Trott...let the club know!

To close - it was a good 10K, thanks to everyone who worked the race, as always you are appreciated by those of us who run.

Sunrise at Redbud

Sunrise is my favorite time of day. I took this picture with my iPhone. I think it turned out pretty good, what about you?

God's Beauty

Finding time to blog is tough, I suppose you've noticed.

As you may have read, the mountains have a special draw for me and I've written about their beauty experienced while running in Colorado.

But last week we had a cool front here in Abilene.

6:00 am: I ran through the cool air letting it engulf me, moving through my hair and giving my spirit a lift. I felt liberated, although my legs were tired from my HORRIBLE run on Saturday.

In the dark the stars seemed so bright, was it the crispness of the morning? And then a falling star. Yes, I made my wish.

The sky began to turn from black to grey to a mix of grey and blue, in the west the moon is still up, in the east the sun is rising. The moon side is still dark as the sun side begins to show a light orange, then pink, and slowly the moon dissapears as the sun continues to peak over the horizon.

And another beautiful day emerges.

It occurs to me that it's not often in the mountains that you see two horizons one with moon and one with sun at the same time, the mountains get in the way. And so as flat as it is here in Abilene that horizontal horizon gives us a beautiful sunrise and moonset, one that plays in your mind creating images of a new day just waiting to be opened up like a new Christmas present.

And then it's Tuesday and another beautiful day is upon us. This time the moon is full, high and beautiful. The stars are bright, the air is crisp...today I finish as the sun is coming up. As I am stretching and looking up through the trees I see the leaves turn from green to gold, they shimmer as the breeze touches each leaf, the branches are bright with the suns kiss against the blue sky.

Each morning is a new creation, a new beginning, a chance to begin again, to put the past behind and look to the future.

I feel sorry for all of those people who sleep through the dawn, oh what they miss!

Saturday's Run

As mentioned in my previous blog, I love the mountains and feel the pull to go home to them. However when I go out on Saturday with those who have become my friends through the common bond of running I know that I am indeed a very lucky person.

God has given me so many friends. People who know how it feels to suffer through a run and also how it feels to revel in a run. Not to mention friends who keep you up on the latest technology. Like using duct tape to put over your blisters when running.

The "ultra guys" have been telling me about this for some time. Now I know that they KNOW what they are talking about but really? Duct tape? I just couldn't understand this. And then a couple of weeks ago I had to wear some "nice" shoes to work in Colorado. YUCK!!!! I love my running shoes and flip flops! Anyway a small blister appeared on the bottom of my foot.

Running, of course, made it worse. It would get better with a day off and then it would get worse when I ran. Last Thursday when I did mile repeats it was pretty bad and so at work I put a bandaid on it while wearing my "nice" shoes. I went to take the bandaid off and OWWWWW...it pulled the skin right off of the blister.

Now what to do? I had to run 14 on Saturday and this blister hurt like....well you know. So as it were, Saturday I show up with a bandaid that didn't even last 2 miles. Then I saw Andy and he had some duct tape in his car. Now I would find out if these folks are just plain crazy or if the rumor is true.

WOW, what can I say!!!! They do indeed know what they are talking about (not that I really ever doubted them). Duct tape is amazing and I really mean amazing! It worked so well for my blister, it didn't hurt at all and didn't blister over again. And the tape came off easily too.

Thank you my friends for such a wonderful suggestion. And really, I did know you KNEW what you were talking about. I just had to experience it for myself to get the full benefit of your knoweldge!

This week in Colorado Springs

There is nothing like a sunrise shining against a majestic mountain. As I run on the trail here in Colorado Springs, starting in the dark and watching the sky slowy change from black to a faint blue, then pink, I breathe in the cold dry air and think to myself, this is the land I love, the land I was born to live in, the land that holds my spirit.

And then it happens, the sun rises from the east and it's bold rays shine against Pike's Peak and it looks even more bold, rising above the clouds that drape the peak. It's orange and gold colors play against the white clouds and the now brighter blue sky.

Running here seems easy this week, the chilly weather is so refreshing. My body seems to respond and my runs are faster than at home and yet easier.

God is truly a wonderful artist, the way he paints our world, we really should pay more attention. No matter where we are the picture is in front of us, let us all open our eyes to the gifts God gives us. In nature, in family, in life...we musn't loose sight.

800's in Colorado Springs

Well...well...do you know what it feels like to have your lungs burn so bad they feel like they are going to burst right out of your chest? I've felt it before while skiing (even while I was living in the mountains as a kid), and when I did the Pike's Peak Ascent (a crazy half marathon up Pikes), and then again last Thursday when I did 800's in Colorado Springs. The difference on Thursday compared to the Ascent is that I was able to recover quickly in my 200 walks.

There are many things to consider. The "track" was at a Middle School, none of the high schools allow adults on their track but the middle school will. It was dirt, and I don't mean cleachy I mean DIRT...loose dark dirt. Footing was iffy.

The track was about 25 yards short of a 400.

So I did my best running hard around even though I knew it was a little short and then I compared the actual pace rather than the time to what my pace is here for 800's I discovered that I actually ran those 800's at a FASTER pace than I run my 800's here. NO WONDER I thought I was going to die!

When I do them next time I will know to slow it down a bit and maybe it won't hurt so bad!

Regardless I was able to do them and do them well, it felt good and how I love running in the dry cool air. WOW.

I leave again tomorrow for anothe week there, several nights the low is 48 to 49 degress. I just love it and can't wait for my runs there.

800's in High Altitude

It's 4:50, I am up and getting ready to go and do some 800 repeats. I have run here many times but never done speed work. I hope I can do it! I know I may be slower than at home and that's ok. Running in this dry air feels wonderful and it's actually chilly in the mornings.

I had to get up early because the Jr. High I found close by that has a track has practice at the track at 7:30 so I have to get it all in and be gone before they get out there.

I will let you know how it goes!

In the Mountains

I am here in Colorado Springs. I got up at 4:00 this morning to run with my brother in Abilene. I love sharing that with him! He went on to the gym afterward I went home and got ready to fly and then I flew here. Went from the airport to the office right into a meeting. Worked until about 6 or so and of course I was starving!

Came to the hotel had room service and now even though it's only 7:10 I am thinking that I will read and go to bed! After all I need to run in the morning on the beautiful trail that runs on the river behind the hotel. I love running here, it's not only beautiful it's cool and dry.

So all of that to say good night! And I'll let you know how it goes in this high altitude :) .

Today's Run and Other Things

Today is Saturday. My long run was good this morning. I am not going as slow as I know I should but with the walk breaks I enjoy the running part more when I go a little faster :), I may regret this some day.

It was a nice day out but it did get hot fast. I am amazed at how much the rain does for the landscape. Everything seems greener, flowers seem more vivid, it's so much nicer after good rains like we had last week. It really does make running more fun!

We are officially "empty nesters". I was sad at first but now I am excited for her. I am hoping though that the river will not call Taryn all the time because she really needs to be studying. If it were me I would spend my days swimming and laying out by that gorgeous river. Who in the heck decided to put a college campus there? Were they on drugs? I mean really! It is absolutely too inviting with the blue water and the green field of grass with volleyball courts dispersed here and there...tubes for rent, frisbees flying. Sigh, I hope she goes to class :)

My training is coming along fine, my speed work is going really well and I am very pleased. I really enjoy speed work. The next two weeks I will be in Colorado Springs working in the office. Running there is always fun and refreshing, cool and away from humidity. I'll let you know how it goes!

Tough Days Ahead

This blog is not about running, instead it's about my last child going off to college. Today we will take her to schoolo, help her get moved in, and leave her there. I am so excited for her and the fact that her brother is just down the road 30 minutes makes it easier, but the house is going to be so quiet.

We are used to the kids having their friends at our house constantly, no knocking on the door they simply come and go. We never really know who is going to be sleeping on the couch or in the spare bedroom, we are an open house for all who want to be there. And we love it even though it is loud and keeps us up, it is youth and it is wonderful.

Now the house will be quiet. Add onto that Terry working in Stephenville and me being alone with a quiet house. Sigh...how will I handle all of this?

I hope she will be ok, I hope she will have friends, I hope she will make her grades, I hope she will have fun...blah blah...many of you have been through this or will soon. As I worry about her finding friends I hear her say that she already has plans for tonight and tomorrow night with friends she met on her wilderness expedition! So what am I so worried about?

Maybe I am more worried about me, losing one of my best friends.

Long Time no Write

I've fallen behind in writing in my blog. Sometimes it just seems like one more thing I have to do! So here is a quick catch up.

Running is going well, I am advil free most of the time so my knee and my hamstring are healing nicely. I d0 lots of stretching and have been very faithful in doing my strength training. I have now learned to LOVE stretching. After my runs if at all possible I take my swim towel and lay it on the ground or on a picnic table (yes this looks funny but if it's muddy it works great) and I stretch for at least 10 minutes. It is so peaceful.

I am all set for the San Antonio Rock n Roll Marathon. I'm not expecting to do anything amazing but hoping to do well and enjoy it. Terry (husband), Tanner (son) are running the half marathon. Tanner's girlfriend, my brother, our niece, and I are running the full marathon. I also have a college roommate who is running the half. And this doesn't include all of the great ARC folks! This is going to be a fun marathon no doubt. I am not sure I've ever looked forward to a race in this way...I just hope I run well and safely.

It rained yesterday, actually it stormed, lots of lightening and thunder between 2 and 9 am. It was awesome but I did put off my long run. And so this morning we went out to run and again it rained but this time there was no lightening and thunder so it was at least safe. I love running in the rain, it was cool and enjoyable, a good long run.

Well this is all for now...I promise to try to be better about blogging.

No Advil!

Training is going well. My runs seem to be feeling better which is good. Maybe it's because my attitude has suddenly changed. I guess we all go through ups and downs in running and right now I feel as though I'm on the way up.

The most exciting thing is that for four days now I have not had to take any advil. I've been taking up to 8 a day for my hamstring, but after several weeks of strenghth training, stretching every day, and doing what the doctor told me to do it is beginning to feel better! I've also added massage therapy. My knee too is finally feeling better and not swelling as it had been. This is so exciting, I hope it continues through my training for San Antonio.

I did learn that I may have to begin traveling every other week to Colorado Springs. I love running there but it is a bit more of a challenge when training for a marathon. But if it has to be done it simply has to be done. We will see how it goes. I am not trying to do anything miraculous for the marathon so the traveling and running should be fine.

Training Begins

I've begun the training for the San Antonio Rock N Roll Marathon. It's nice to feel positive about running again. Mile repeats on Thursday were tough but felt good. Shorter long run on Saturday to start off. It went well to despite the heat.

Last night the club had a send off party for us. It was wonderful. It's amazing the friends we have made. And honestly they are people we may have never met had it not been for running.

A big thanks to them all for being so good to us!

San Antionio Plan

Well, well. After two days of rest following El Schorcho, it is time to begin training for the Rock N Roll marathon in November.

I struggled after "The Schorch", I was sure I never wanted to run again. If I was indeed going to run the Rock N Roll I needed to do a mile test to see where my level is at this point in time. I don't like the mile test, I don't like the heat, the two combined make me literally ill so what did I do? I complained, I whined, I grumbled, I griped. And then I called the one person I knew would side with me, my brother.

Only he didn't side with me, not really. He simply said "what's the big deal"? It's a mile, what like 7 mintutes and a few seconds? Try it, if you do well great then you can decide what you want to do, if you don't then so what, you run the marathon with no time goal. He seemed to be confused as to why I was so busy lamenting.

I thought about it last night over and over. He was right. After all I do 4 or more 800's at a 3:45 pace with a 200 fast walk inbetween, how much harder would it be to just do a mile instead? And so I decided that I would do my test, alone just in case I failed miserably.

And so I did it differently this time, before I did my mile test at the park on the 1 mile loop, today I went to the track.

I did my warm up mile and then started the first 400 at what would be a 4:00 800, then each lap I sped up so the last lap was very fast, to the point of sickness and whala it was done. 7:17 pace, not bad at all.

Now I am happy, going forward AND looking forward to it instead of wanting to quit.

Schorching? YES!

El Schorcho Dos...the name says it all. Hot, no, schorching YES. Even at midnight. Needless to say this run was difficult. A week of conference, wearing heels, not sleeping, eating differently, flying, running at midnight, the heat, dehydration, lots of excuses!

Interestingly enough what I remember most is the one part of the loop where you can see the skyline of the city. It is beautiful and peaceful. It's a sight that not many people see from this vantage point in the middle of the night. 5 loops and each time the sight caught me by surprise. That part I loved.

Spending time with friends who share this crazy affair with running, absolutely priceless.

All the frustration, all the pain, in the end celebrating with friends is really what it is all about!

Running on the Beach

Six AM, there are a few of us who brave the humidity and hit the beach for an early morning run. Across the ocean the clouds are heavy and dark, lightening flashes like a strobe. Not up high but on the surface of the water, streaks of bright light backed by fullness of light in the dark clouds.

Humid yes and yet the soft ocean breeze blows against me caressing my hair my face my body and thus keeping me cool.

The sand is soft yet hard enough for a run, I pass people here and there "good morning" we mutter. Everyone is happy to be out on such a beautiful morning with the storm coming in, knowing that we will have rain later.

Six miles later, heavy with sweat, my run is complete. I lay down on my towel by the pool and stretch looking up at the still blue sky while now hearing the thunder in the distance.

Two days later 6:30 AM another run on the beach. This time there is no storm, instead soft fluffy clouds dab the horizon over the water. Dark at first and then the sky begins to light up, slowly at first with pink light peaking through the fluffy clouds. And then the sun decides to show his face, the rays boldly reaching out to those on earth, through the clouds painting the ocean pink and orange in it's reflection.

The run came to a halt when the sun began to come above the horizon, how can one not stop when the landscape is made so beautifully by the hand of God?

Time to go on, work is waiting.

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to run in the quiet morning on the beach, to have the time to think about the blessings God has bestowed upon me, and see his work surrounding me, taking it all in, letting it rain down on me.

Update

Today is Friday and it is a rest day from running. I am however going to do legs and upper body strength training along with a good core workout. Tomorrow it may be tough to run 14 miles if I do too much so I will need to be sure not to overdo today.

Yesterday I ran 800's for the first time in 3 weeks. I really dreaded them but in the end it turned out fine. I ran them inconsistently though and realize I need to work hard to hit my mark. It was humid although not to warm. My knee and hamstring are feeling better, I think the strength training plus more rest is helping.

I am looking forward to running in Miami next week on the beach even though the humidity will be tough, it will be a nice break and I only run twice so that I am well rested for El Schorcho on the 20th (mine and Patrizia's birthday). And yes I am older than her by quite a bit :).

Time to do my workout...will write later.

Not Writing Much

Well I've had a tough time writing lately. I've also had a hard time running. I am concerned about the hamstring. I am so tight and just can't seem to get past it. I am stretching much more, doing strength training, icing. I know it will take time but it is really annoying. The knee gets sore but it goes away fast when I ice it I just need to be better about doing so.

I am worried though that I won't be able to make it through another marathon, should I even try? I don't want to run one and then find that it was too much and not be able to run again. I am so confused. Since December it seems I am constantly dealing with injury :(.

I am going to begin massages when I get back from El Schorcho, at least twice a month, I have got to find a way to get my hamstrings loosened up.

All this to say my running is fine, I am sticking to training, doing my speed work and long runs, the heat and humidity is killing me and I wish this hamstring would heal faster.

Monday and Tuesday first of July

Monday,
What a sunrise! I was in awe of the pink, red, and gold clouds with sun rays peeping through here and there as if to say GOOD MORNING WORLD!

It was humid on Monday. It made the run a bit tougher, but I ran a natural pace and my pace was very good. The sunrise made it worth it to be out there. I think it's a shame that so many people sleep through, or don't notice such a beautiful event. That is one of the great things about running. When you are out there in the morning you see things that many people miss. How sad.

When I got home it began to rain softly. This is why it was so humid! We needed the rain and it was a pretty rain, not stormy, just soft and quiet. It was tough not to go back to bed to catch some zzzzzs.

Sid came on Monday afternoon. It was great to see him! He is here through Thursday so we will get to run together. I always like sharing this time with my brother.

Tuesday -

We went to the track and ran 100 meter repeats. Sid has not tackled 100's yet but he did GREAT. I was really surprised. He is in great shape and had no trouble keeping up with me. We did 10 and although tough, they seemed easier today. It was not windy and it was cooler. Those things put together makes the running much more pleasurable.

Even better was sharing that time with my brother. He is so fun and we talk about so many things. It's fun to have him here.

Terry is gone to Ohio with his new job. I love to hear him talk about it because he is so happy. I had no idea that his old job was such as burden. I guess he/we got in a rut. It's exciting to hear him talk about something new, working as a team, and the people he is meeting. I could do without the fried bologna sandwich he ate, but he loves it and for that I am so thankful! Wish I were with him to run on the ranch and watch the horses, see the sun rise, enjoy a new environment. Maybe I can go with him before they all move to Texas.

Well tomorrow is a rest day and I am glad. I need to rest.

More to follow on Thursday, Sianara

Friday and Saturday

Friday I ran 6 at a natural pace and the pace was pretty good. I was pleased and although it was a bit hot it felt good going a pace that felt comfortable with where I was at the time. I was surprised by my pace. This was good and bad, good because it helped my confidence, bad because I had a long run on Saturday and should have taken it easy on Friday.

Oh well, it helped me and it felt good. I'm still in a slump for me, but this workout definately made me feel a little more on track.

Read on for Saturday's report.

Saturday - This was a tough run. It was really hot, and I ran with Jean at a slower pace. I really struggled toward the end. Granted it could be because I ran Friday and ran faster than I should have.

I got home and plugged in my Garmin and got a bit confused. I thought I ran 10 miles, but I had two entries for today, one for 2.13 miles and one for 10. At one point I stopped my watch and reset it so I guess we lost 2 miles. Instead of my planned 10 miles I guess I ran 12. No wonder the last two miles were tough. I've not run 12 miles in some time.

Sunday my knee and my hamstring were really sore. It was obvious I did too much. I suppose you could say I learned my lesson. I will be more careful next time!

Thursday's a Bust

Didn't make it out for my 800's Thursday. I used to be so dedicated. I believe I am having the preverbial slump. I am tired, I am hot, I just don't have the dedication and I don't want to be this way. But I just can't get motivated. I'm wondering if it's the stress of all that is going on with Terry changing jobs, getting the house ready to sell, keeping it perpetually clean in case someone comes to look, getting Taryn ready for college. Everything just seems so overwhelming and although running is a great outlet, I seem to struggle getting out the door.

Or maybe it's just the heat. In any case I did run Friday, it was a decent run, 6 miles at a natural pace for the heat so it wasn't too bad. My hamstrings are so tight and the pull in my left hamstring still hurts but I am stretching and doing all of my exersizes so it will get better.

I've also added major core training and upper body training which feels great, but I was VERY sore today in places I didn't know I had.

Oh well, just another day. Tomorrow will be better.

I'm getting behind!

I can't seem to keep up with my Blog. Too much going on I suppose.

Monday's run was a bit tough, I felt tired, my legs were heavy. Of course this could be due to the lack of sleep I've had since Thursday of last week and the beer I've consumed. Not that I've had a lot to drink, but even one or two for a few days in a row makes a huge impact. Especially when it's a think dark rich beer, the kind I love!

Today was much better, I did 100 repeats today and although tough after not doing them for 2 weeks, they were not killer and so I accomplished my goal of doing 10 at 20 seconds each and I feel good. I was also able to do my stretching and my ab workout. I will do upper body later today.

All in all things are good. I am ready for my hamstring to feel better. I think it is improving but today it did hurt some while I was running. I am keeping doctors orders and working out to strengthen the muscles around the hamstring, I simply want results NOW rather than later. Impatient aren't I?

My goal this week is to get 8 hours of sleep a night and see if that helps with the running and recovery.

Rest Day, Yea!

I needed a rest day. I didn't really rest, We worked our tail ends off getting the house cleaned up and "staged" because it goes on the market tomorrow.

I'm glad I didn't also run today that would have put me over the edge.

I am looking forward to tomorrow though, getting back into routine after a couple of easy weeks.

See you running!

Solstice Run and Garage Sale

This week has been a recovery week, I tend to have problems after traveling so Bill had me take it easy and I am so glad. This week we had our big moving sale. What a pain in the buttox!

Long nights and early mornings wore me out so running less this week was very beneficial. Thanks Bill!

The Solstice Run to prepare for El Scorcho was really fun. I don't run at night very often and I dreaded it. I just knew I would be miserable for the full 8 miles. However after getting going we had a great run! Terry and I ran together and we ran a little over 9. It felt so good, I was surprised. I ran a new interval Bill took from Galloway. 4:1 I thought I owuld hate it but it worked out great.

The only issue I had was my stomach at the end. I could not have gone any further, luckily it head out during the run.

Other than that it was good. I am wondering though if I need more "practice". To get used to running at night and getting my food intake down in a way that will keep my stomach from being upset. Comments anyone?

It occurs to me that in the not too distant past we would not have done something like the Solstice run. The club is growing and it is exciting to see runners getting together like we did last night and not just runners but families of runners. I am all of a sudden saddened by our iminent move. I so enjoy this group of people, I am going to hate to leave them all behind. I do plan to come back occassionally and run with them when I can.

Thanks to everyone for making ARC such a great running club.

Out of Tranquility

We are back and we are safe. No running to report, not even running from bears (thank goodness). This is a long blog of our vacation so read on at your own risk.

Trading in running for backpacking, fly fishing, hiking game trails, swimming in freezing cold mountain rivers, and eating very lite was really great. Being away from everyone, not seeing any other person other than our party for 4 days was incredible. Not knowing if we were in WWIII or if Utopia had come was refreshing. I could do without the news on an ongoing basis :)

Let me start the story here. We left Sunday morning early. Our friends met us at our house and so we had two vehicles. Our XTerra and their double cab truck. We were on our way to Safford AZ to spend the night, a 13 hour drive. We get to Van Horn, stop to get gas and smell antifreeze. Not good. Open the hood and steam comes pouring out. We had the belts and hoses checked and changed before we left, it appeared that the belt had come loose from the radiator so we put it back on and tightened it up.

We make it to Safford sleep in a cheezy motel then get up Monday morning and make our way to the San Carlos Indian Reservation. Terry's first comment was "wow, no wind"! It is about 100 miles to the point we will begin our decent to the river by backpack. We must first drive on dirt, rock, rutted, TERRIBLE logging roads that are not marked. A friend has given us the GPS coordinates (123 of them). We programmed them into a handheld GPS unit, this is how we find our way. There are logging roads one after another and it is easy to get lost without the coordinates. Needless to say there are no people here, only us.

We start off on the first dirt road, it is very bumpy and it isn't long before steam is pouring out from under our hood. The hose has come off again. After it cools we discover that the little lip on the radiator where the hose comes in has broken off. Therefore the hose will not stay on no matter how tightly it is clamped. The guys use duck tape to try to hold it together...this works for a short time but is just not good enough for the bumpy roads.

The decision is made to leave the car in the middle of the field right off of the main logging road. We pack everything we will need for the next 4 days into our friends double cab truck and climb in. Now there are 6 of us in the truck with all of our gear in the back.

The bumping is incredible and annyoing, but part of the experience. We find the roads using the GPS pretty easily and then we hit a VERY rocky stretch and we here...pop....hisssssss.....a rock has punctured a tire. Bill puts on the gas to get us to the top and to a flat place in order to change the tire. In going to get the spare from under the truck he can't find the key for the padlock that holds the cable around the tire to keep it from getting stolen. Luckily he has a hacksaw and the guys work for about 20 minutes to saw through the cable so that we can get the spare tire. The tire is changed easily but this leaves us with no spare.

We continue on and we find the end of the road which is on the top or a huge cliff. We look over and we can see the river below, it is a breathtaking view. Those we know who have done this before tell us the game trail begins where it has been marked with a yellow tape ribbon so we don our backpacks and follow the ribbon.

Wow, can it really be this steep? We were all wondering what the hell we had gotten ourselves into, this was more than steep, this was a cliff and without repelling equipment we would not make it the mile down to the river. So we go back up (a tough feat). We begin to look around and find that there are three yellow ribbons leading down a different game trail that while very hard and steep was NOTHING like the cliff we had just attempted. So down we hike.

At the bottom it opens into a large open area with huge pines right beside some small falls in the river. It is absolutely an amazing sight. This is where we camp. We set up our tents, get out the food, hang it from bears, do all of the "camping" stuff we need to do then it's off to explore. Hiking close by up and down the river and doing some fishing.

The sun begins to rise at about 4:45 am so we are up pretty early every morning, it is cold at night (40 degrees) so we build a big fire at night and in the morning. Tuesday morning we get up, eat oatmeal and hike 3 miles upriver on a game trail where we see signs of deer, elk, bear. We see a bald eagle, a Tom Turkey, and an old Meth Shack. If you are not aware, the Indians in the San Carlos reservation are well known for their meth habits, unfortunately it is a bad situation. We were on a game trail to find another river that runs into The Black when we came across the shack. It was obvious by the trash left behind it was an old Meth Lab. Literally in the middle of this gorgeous country.

In any case the hike was tough, crossed the river many times and the river is full of lots of rocks an swift water. Game trails or for game...not for humans! But they work. When stopping for lunch (trail mix) we were able to see a Raven feed her 4 babies in a nest on a cliff. Those babies were HUGE and loud. On the way back we fished every hole we could get to and didn't catch many, but just being out there was worth it, the water is really amazing.

We cooked and ate 100 yards from camp, don't want to tempt the bears. After eating it's back to camp for a big camp fire. Then off to bed.

Wednesday we hiked downstream for about 2.5 miles fishing as we went. Again the terrain is very rough but not as bad as upstream. We see a rattler under a log we crossed.

After awhile of not catching fish Taryn, Ashton, and I decide to go back to one of the big pools we found and lay out and swim. We were smart enough to wear our bathing suites under our clothes. This pool was at least 12 feet deep and looked so inviting in the 78 to 80 degree heat. Getting in though is another story, the water is freezing! The girls were much braver than I and stayed in a little longer, I just jumped in and got right out, I could not breathe!

Laying on the rocks by the pool was nice, just sleeping and talking girl talk. Then on to camp where we all took naps and began dinner for the guys.

More fishing and then it was time to get up and head out. We got up about 6 and broke camp, put on our packs and started our ascent out of the valley. The ascent was much more difficult than the descent. My calves were cramping my lungs were burning but slowly we made it out and the truck was in good condition, nice to see.

Going out we prayed the entire way that we would not get another flat as we had no additional spare. Sure enough we made it back to the XTerra which was still there and had not been touched. However it cannot be driven of course and we have no cell service. So we look around and find a "ranger" station, it looks abandonded. We find some shacks that look like they are out of deliverance and we see someone go in real fast and shut the door, we decide that after knowing about the meth problem we will not ask for help.

So we drive until we get service which is in Globe, AZ. Who needs service now we are already in town! Luckily we find a radiator shop (keep in mind this is after a 100 mile drive in rough road in a double cab truck and we have not showered in 4 days). The owner is very nice and says he will try to get us a radiator from Pheonix but it will be Saturday and his family has father's day plans so he may not get to it until Monday. Our plan was to come home on Saturday :( we take what we can get.

Terry has to get the car towed so he calls a towing service and rides out with the tow truck (80 miles) to get the car. About half way back the tow truck radiator overheats. They have to wait 45 minutes for another tow truck to come and get them. It is, after all, now Friday the 13th.

Finally after leaving the valley at 7:30 am Terry gets to the hotel in Globe at 10:30 pm. We had stayed with our friend, gotten a room, showered, eaten. He had a beer and pizza! Luck was on our side though when the owner of the radiator showed up at the shop while they were dropping off the car and told Terry that he had a friend pick up the radiator so it was there and that he would try (although not promise) to come in late that night and fix the car.

We didn't hear from him the rest of the night and so we had no idea what the deal was so the next morning at 6 the kids left with our friend to go home. Terry and I were prepared to stay with no car and no clean clothes until Monday if needed. As we were eating breakfast at a local place by the hotel we get a call...he had stayed until midnight to fix our car and it was ready. He came and picked us up at the cafe and we were ready to roll.

13 hours later we are home. It was a great vacation and all the mishaps made it even better.

Wind Blew the Week Away

Wow, it's Friday already. It's been so windy the week just blew right by me without a post. I need to get a grip on posting regularly. Of course I am quite sure there are not that many readers so I am probably not missed by many :) .

To recap the week, Monday was my easy 6 mile run. It wasn't too bad, of course it was windy but it was a good run. I've had some pain for quite some time with what I thought was Piriformis Syndrome. I do have Piriformis issues but this was different and yet felt similar. The pain kept getting worse so finally I want to see Dr. Ezzell. High ham string pull. NO WONDER it hurt so much. When I am sitting for any length of time it is almost unbearable and I have to take more than a dosage worth of Advil.

I do not have to quit running, thank goodness, but I do have to stretch A LOT, apparently at my age (as doc put it) stretching is even more important so I have added more stretching into my routine. And he added some strategic strength training as well.

I've also added core workouts twice a week. Needless to say all of this is taking a bit more time compared to my usual run. But that's OK because I want to feel better and run better.

Let's see that all happened on Tuesday after my 100 repeats which went very well in the wind, even if I must say so myself! Wednesday was rest and I slept in (until 7:00). It felt great to saw more logs than usual.

Thursday morning was to be my 800 repeats...guess what???? 25 gusting to 40 mph wind :( I was not a happy runner and so what did I do? I slept until 7:00 and did not go run. I did however do my strength training and a great core workout.

So this morning I got up to do my 800 repeats...listen, do you hear that? That's right, no wind! Wow, so off I went. Not having wind was wonderful, the humidity this morning was tough on me, but the 800's went well and I was surprised that they were not as difficult as usual. I am sure this is because I didn't have to run into a wall of air coming at me from the south.

Sit ups and stretching followed and the rest of the day has been more preparation for getting the house ready to sell. (And my job of course)

Great day!

Next week we will be on vacation. I will trade my running in for pack packing and hiking in a remote area of the White Mountain Indian Reservation in the mountains of Arizona...yes all you people Arizona has more mountains than desert! This will be the first time we have done this in a remote area without trails. Thank goodness for topo maps and GPS. I'm looking forward to the time away from all stress of every day life and I'll write all about it when I return.

SYL (See ya later)

Graduation Day

Today was my daughter's graduation. The last one so now we will be without our children. I really will miss her but I am also looking forward to seeing her continue to blossom into a wonderful young woman.

I know it won't really hit me until she leaves for college, but this morning as I rose to go to the club run at Redbud, I found myself feeling a little down. I had a hard time getting motivated. I am of course feeling old, overweight, depressed, and lonely. I think these things are normal when your last child is going off. All of a sudden you feel like an old woman (or man).

Of course the run made me feel better, worked out the kinks, and the rest of the day has been such a blessing with all of our family here with us to celebrate her right of passage.

It occurs to me that, for me anyway, running is so much more than just a way to stay healthy, or thin, or in shape, it is a way to release the tension, the stress, the fear that seems to hit me from time to time. The days that I don't run are remarkably different from the days I do run. My attitude is better, my outlook brighter. It really does feel better to get out and do something.

Speed Runs

Today I did 800 repeats. The weather was good, not much wind, not too humid, not too hot. I like it a bit cooler but all in all it wasn't too bad. So why was that first 800 so difficult? I thought I would drop dead. Then when I looked at my time it was 15 seconds faster than my pace is supposed to be! NO WONDER.

Then I was able to let myself slow down just enough to do the others on pace. What this tells me is that the 100 repeats are working in my favor and helping me to do my 800 repeats faster without realizing what is happening.

I hope this will translate to faster in other distances. I know it is supposed to do so, but sometimes I just find it hard to believe until it happens.

Rest day again tomorrow...YEA.

100 Repeats after Hills

Yesterday's Memorial Day run was so much fun. Well the running part was tough on those hills, but the socializing was a blast!

Eating too much and food that is not in my normal diet, along with Mimosas and beer is not smart when the next day is a hard run day. Once again I've learned a lesson.

However, I got up early and went to Cooper and did my 100 repeats. The wind was a little bit of a factor although not too bad today, the humidity kills me as usual. Add to that the heaviness of my legs from running up and down hill yesterday and the difference in diet and well...all this things used to not bother me so much. Now it seems to make me feel a little sluggish.

Even with all of that I hit my pace in every 100, it just seemed to take more effort today than last week. I am proud of myself for at least getting up and getting it done!

Tomorrow is a day of rest, YEA...

I've been looking at routes in Granbury and Stephenville. You know it's hilly there! So all of my runs will include hills. I'm excited about this, it should make me stronger if my knee will just hold up!

Memorial Day Club Run

WOW. There is so much to say about this morning. I think I can sum it up with three points.

1. Challenging course
2. Great time with friends
3. Great food and drink

Windy, hilly, hot. That was the course. Fun but challenging.

Friends to run with, friends to eat with, friends to drink with. I am really going to miss these people :(

Food, well what can I say? Maria and Chris put on a great party and the food that they made and everyone brought was scrumptious! Just what we needed after a run like that.

You know it's so hard not to get caught up in trying to run "hard" all the time, but again today I was reminded of how fun it is to fellowship with good friends and fellow runners. And in a pretty setting, with it's own pool :) (Thanks Maria)

Enjoy each other fellow runners, that is what you will remember in the end.

Runing with Friends

Today was our club running day. Saturdays are sometimes hard for me. I know that I need to go slow on Saturdays. With two speed days I get tired easy and so Saturday is really a recovery run.

I always find myself wanting to do more than I should. Today was no different.

Then I find myself running with friends and we chat, talk about everything under the sun, enjoy each others company, catch up on each others lives and I realize...running is not just about how far, how long, or how fast. It's about seeing those people you miss seeing during the week and having a great converstion that couldn't be had if you were running faster.

During the week I run alone a lot depending upon what Terry feels like doing, sometimes he would rather go to the YMCA later in the day and work out. That's cool. I enjoy running alone. Those runs are faster, speed days are of course much faster and I enjoy them and feel good after such a hard workout. But when Saturday comes I find myself thoroughly excited to spend time with good friends.

I see others, pushing themselves on what should be a slower relaxed day, I wonder how their week goes. I used to think that every run I had to run hard, I missed out on so much with that mentality. And I am actually getting faster without running hard every run. The body just needs it's rest. Especially at over 40. I'm ok with that.

All of this to say to you the reader; Save some runs for enjoyment and visiting with friends. You actually burn more fat going slower :) always a plus, and this time will come to an end someday and then you will be sorry you didn't let those runs linger.

Humidity - Friend or Foe?

800 repeats today. Not so windy although not so windy is 17 mph. I think it's so funny how on weather.com if the wind is blowing 20 mph or stronger they say it's going to be windy and they have the word windy in the forecast in italics; windy. If it's predicted to be under 20 mph they don't have windy on that day. Listen folks 17 mph is STILL windy.

However, it is better than the 23 to 33 yesterday. For that I am thankful. However, in it's place was 84% humidity. What's up with that? We have very few lakes, no real rivers, we are nowhere near an ocean. Why is it so HUMID? Sorry for shouting. Humidity is tough on me, trying to run a good pace is very hard when I feel like I am breathing under water.

So how did the 800 repeats go then? Did I quit, did I toss my banana, did I drop dead from overheating? No, I still ran them on pace. YEA! It was very difficult and thank goodness I didn't have to do more. I've not had a really tough workout like that in a while. I really had to do the self talk business to get finished. But finish I did and now I am happy to have them out of the way until next week when perhaps the wind and humidity will be less and my body will be happier :).

It occurs to me that I don't like running in the wind nor the humidity nor the heat. I really should move somewhere still and dry and cool. Looks like that isn't going to happen. Every day when I check the weather I also check in Granbury/Stephenville, just to see if it's a lot more humid, hot, or windy there than Abilene. So far each day is about the same. Good to know it's not going to get worse!

Tomorrow is the club run, easy 6 with some walk breaks in preparation for next week. I'm looking forward to visiting with club members I've been missing!

Humidity and all, club runs are awesome!

Wind Anyone?

Windy...so windy...I did not do my 800 repeats today. I woke up, I was really tired, heard the wind, went back to sleep.

Tomorrow I will conquer the track...in the wind I suspect.

Sigh...

Tuesday's Run

Well this day was great! A very hard workout makes you feel such a sense of accomplishment, how I love that feeling.

Terry and I did 10 x 100 at 20 seconds each after a mile warm up and followed with a mile cool down.

This was what I call a comfortably hard run. I knew I was taxing myself and it was hard to breathe but I did them all on pace and felt great afterward, spent but great.

I enjoy Terry going with me to run, it gives us time to talk and visit; our time uninterrupted. It really keeps our relationship close.

Running gives us a lot of opportunities, not just to keep in shape, or to see a beautiful sunrise, but also to have relationships that are meaningful on a higher plane.

Today it is windy, it ruins my mood. I am just hoping that tomorrow is better...

The Week so Far

Well let's see. Sunday was a good day off, we slept late because of the Senior Party we had for Taryn. It was a late night after getting up early to run on Saturday. Speaking of running on Saturday, it's very lonely at the park when everyone is gone to a race. But Mike, Joanne, Terry, and I still put in a good run.

Today I ran 6 miles. My legs were stiff and I felt like they were made of led. I hope it's just a bad run day. I don't like it when I have those days and I worry that I am going backwards instead of forwards in my progress. I need to quit the worrying :)

Not much else to report. I am tired, hoping for a good nights rest for my 100 repeats tomorrow morning.

Anyone want to buy our house? I am not joking....

Catching Up

I haven't posted in a few days...been so busy I get behind. I am doing my runs though so never fear!

Wednesday was a great day off, I really enjoy my rest days. Taryn (18 year old daughter) went to visit her brother (20) in Austin. His girlfriend and a friend of hers flew in from South Carolina and some other friends drove up to Austin to meet them as well. Their plan was to hang out in Austin on Wednesday night and then float the river on Thursday. About 11:30 on Wednesday night we get a phone call. Austin had terrible storms and the wind and hail (baseball size) busted in a window in Tanner's apartment and hail, rain, and glass got everywhere. And they lost power so there was no way to clean up. We talked to them off and on until about 3:00 am watching the storms on the internet.

Finally they drove 10 minutes south and got a cheap hotel. Six of them in one room! The next day they had to clean up and the river was too high and fast to float so they came here to Abilene.

We have a houseful of wonderful young adults. They keep us laughing and that is a good thing.

Ok back to running, needless to say Thursday morning after getting to bed at 3:00 am, I slept in until I had to stumble to the coffee and computer for work. I am so glad I work from home, people don't know I am stumbling and in my PJ's :) .

So Friday I go to the track to do my 800 repeats. They were tough that day it was humid and I think that really hurts my breathing. But I did them and all were right on pace which is a good thing.

Today Terry and I got up early and went to run with the club. Only a few of us were there most were in Comanche but it was a good easy 6 mile run.

Now we are back home enjoying our children before a big graduation party tonight.

Tomorrow I rest and Monday I am back to it.

I've also decided that my upper body is looking flabby, so starting Monday I am going to the gym three times a week to lift and do core work. I do some at home but I am not disciplined at home like at the gym. We will see how that goes.

Off to visit some more....

Been Awhile

I haven't written in my blog for a few days. Not intentionally, just no time! Now I will catch up.

Friday last week I ran 6 pretty easy miles. My legs were tired after 800 repeats on Thursday. It was a good run. Saturday no running, we went to Lake Brownwood and enjoyed a hot Saturday on the water. It was very relaxing even though we had 12 teenagers with us!

It was cooler at the lake on Sunday and quite a bit more wind. But even then coffee in the morning out by the lake wrapped in a warm blanket...is there anything better? What a great morning shared with long time friends.

Clean up of the lake house went fast and home we came only to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening cleaning out the cabinets in the kitchen. Getting ready to sell a house is not a lot of fun! Anyone want to buy our house?

Yesterday, Monday, was a 6 mile natural pace run. I felt good and used my new shoes for the first time, boy I needed them. I waited way too long for shoes this time. Listening to my ipod I got lost in the music and the run went by quickly. I also stopped to visit a friend who lives on my route, she just had knee surgery.

Today was 100 repeats at the Cooper track. Felt GREAT! It was humid and windy and we still had a tough time doing the repeats in the time the coach gave us...we did them faster. That is a good thing until he increases the number from 10 to 20! I think I could still hold that same pace but we will see.

Ok that is it for now, just a quick catch up with no pretty words. Now it's off to work.

Perfect Day

Wow, is this the perfect day or what? I got up to a beautiful still morning. 5:15 am and still dark but nice and still. I walked outside, perfect temperature. Not hot, not cold, perfect.

Went to the track ran my 800 repeats on pace, as well as my warm up and cool down, then did sit ups and stretching at the track.

I simply did not want to go inside. Running is so easy when it's a perfect day. The sun coming up over the baseball field at Cooper felt like something from a high school sports movie.

Now at home I am working (yes I have wireless) outside. It's so nice to telecommute.

I am struck by how vivid colors seem today. The flowers and the grass, even the sky. It's one of those days when things look, well....vivid.

And now the hammock calls me, alas I am working. Bummer...maybe a nap in the hammock later.

100's at the Track

Rain, wind, lightening, thunder...that is what I woke to yesterday at 5am. I planned to hit the track and do 100 repeats early because my day was full and I would not have time later in the morning.

The weather disagreed with me and so back to bed I went. This left the evening..6:30 pm to be exact. And I am NOT an evening runner. Alas, we went regardless of the heat and wind.

And it wasn't too bad. They were actually pretty easy so my coach is now telling me I need to try running them faster (I knew he would :) ) and that's ok with me. It felt good and even the football players in spring football commented that we did a good job! Of course in their minds they are thinking "what's up with this old people?".

That's ok, when they are our age they will remember that day when we were out there working hard to stay in shape.

Great Saturday Run

It was a great day today, windy (what's new?) and a little chilly. But with friends there to talk to and laugh with time goes by quickly.

My knees felt good today thanks goodness because after Thursday I was afraid something was really wrong. I believe I really need new shoes but RAB's is out of my size until next week :(

Everyone is feeling strong, healthy, and ready to run some races again soon. Wow what a group.

We are moving this summer and honestly the main thing I will miss is this group of people. I love them all and I am going to make sure I stay in touch. It's not often that you find a group of people that you enjoy this much.

Now off to the lake!

Rest Day and lovin it!

Rest day, nothing else to say!

800's in the Wind...OH JOY!

Good morning fellow runners. Today was actually a good run day, regardless of this ridiculous wind.

I woke up to this mild roar, sigh it's windy again. Should I get out of bed? Should I do this regardless of the wind? Is it worth it? Will I be able to breathe? Will I die on Cooper's track?

So I drug myself out of bed, still listening to the roar of the wind outside thinking all the time that this was pure madness.

Going into the wind while doing my warm up was no big deal, but I knew that when I was actually trying to go fast it was going to be like hitting a wall. Oh well, it had to be done, I was here and I was going to do this!.

And so I did, and although it was tough, and I did feel like I was hitting a wall, I did them. All of them, and I hit my pace every time. The effort was more intense because of the wind but that only makes me stronger, right?

And then as I was cooling down the sun poked up from behind the clouds, the rays shining bright. And I was struck with how beautiful mornings are, how much I love them. Starting fresh every day is such a gift of God and every time I see that sun come up I know I have the opportunity to do better today than yesterday.

And so wind and all my run was very good.

Fun Morning Run

If you run you know that there are times when you get a little stale, you feel like you are doing the same thing over and over again. Sometimes it's fun to shake it up a bit. Today was one of those days.

This morning Terry and I went to the park. I needed to do some speedwork but I have no real plan right now so we decided to do "poles". This is really what the experts call Fartleks, but because we have light poles at the park we call it "poles". We ran two miles to get a good warm up and then ran 2 miles using the poles to do some speedwork.

We would run starting at one pole and run as fast as possible for two poles, then jog two, then run two, etc...for 2 miles. Toward the end we were walking instead of jogging inbetween our sets of speed. It was fun and my Garmin allowed me to do laps so we have the pace for each of those sets.

Although it was hard and I definately felt it, the time flew by and doing something different was really fun. Not to mention that having to try to "beat" Terry was fun. He was pretty good though and I was only able to beat him toward the end because I have a bit more endurance.

Well time for work...have a great day.

Perfect Weather

Wow, what a morning. God is amazing, have you seen how green everything is after the rain? As people plant flowers in their gardens the city begins to take on new breath. I love this kind of morning.

I ran 5.5 this morning. Started at Redbud about 8:00 this. Immediately I noticed how green the park is and how vivid the color! The sky was so blue no clouds in sight and the sun bright and cheery. The temperature crisp and cool but not too cold, perfect little slap of tingle just enough to keep your run in step

Then I went out on the streets and not even sure where I was heading, I just ran. I crossed 27th and ran through the neighborhoods amazed at the color that people have begun to add to their gardens. A good laugh at a big brown squirrel with a big pecan trying to figure out if it was OK to cross the road, back and forth he went, I wish I knew what he was thinking!

Then back to the park to finish up where I stopped for a bit to see my friend Mick who was just getting ready to run with Maria. I am sure they too had a great run, who would not on a day like today?

This was a great day, I could have run forever on a morning such as this.

Good Couple of Days

It's a beautiful day! I love this weather, 70's, light wind, no clouds in the sky. It really is nice out.

Yesterday was interesting. Because on Thursday my last 800 was not where I thought it should be in terms of speed I decided (and got approval from Bill) to run 4 today. Two miles VERY slow, then one 800 as FAST as I can, then two miles to cool down. I don't want to overdo after a speed day and before a long run day. It was very humid this morning 84% when I went to run at 7:00.

I ran my two slow miles and then ran my 800 in 3:23. That is a pretty fast time for me. Of course I could not do it more than once at this point, but after a hard day then to come back and be able to do that alone, on a street not a track, makes me feel very good. So it was a good day. Later it cooled off when a cold front came through and the humidity dropped to below 50%. Strange day.

Today, well, what a wonderful day! I got up at 4:30 am, ate, got dressed, went to the bathroom many times (I always seem to do that), and met Patrizia at the park at 5:30. We ran 8.5, trying to get 10 in before 7:00 but we just didn't make it. I did not factor in my long run pace but never the less it was such a great morning with the nice cool weather. Just perfect for long sleeves and shorts. Then we helped with the March of Dimes 5K and enjoyed watching the runners/walkers having a good time.

Now we are working in the yard and laying out before Prom tonight. We will have a good number of teens are our house about 1:00 am through the night. I'm glad they will be here so that I know what they are doing :) They really are good kiddos.

I'm off tomorrow, it's a rest day....until Monday...

Turn Around

Tuesday I had a bad run, of course you know all of this already. A couple of my esteemed running friends were kind enough to let me know that we all have bad running days especially when the temperatures rise. Thank you for your wisdom!

Today was a good day running, despite the early morning heat I ran my 800's and felt good. It was not easy mind you instead it was comfortably hard. This was my turn around.

I guess the heat and humidy is here to stay, I am a cold weather runner but I must adjust to the heat, that's just the way it is.

In the winter I go run a little later in the morning when the sun is just up and the air is brisk, that is my favorite. Now that will change and I will get up early to run before the sun shines and the day gets too warm. To be honest I love finishing my run as the gloden rays peep over the horizon and yellow fluffy clouds.

It occurs to me that we as runners have wonderful opportunities to see the day as others do not. I pledge to not take these opportunities for granted.

Running Sucks

Today was not a good day, my run sucked. Luckily Terry was there to pick me up out of my self pity and loathing for that dreaded mile test.

I can't breathe anymore. The heat and humidity are killing me. If I go slow I am ok but when I try to push I just cannot get any air into my lungs. My legs are good, my knee was fine, my muscles can do it, but I just can't breathe.

What the hell is wrong with me? I am not happy, I don't like a bad run day, I want to throw it away like a piece of unwanted plastic wrap that has been covering something green in the fridge for weeks.

I am dissappointed. I can do better. But do I care anymore? Maybe I would be happier if I just gave it up. Maybe there is something else I can do.

Ok enough of the self pity...so I had a bad run. Who hasn't had them, right? And if you haven't I sure as hell don't want to know about it.

Tomorrow I rest and so we will see how Thursday goes. I'm hoping for a good run to get me out of this funk.