Monday, December 24, 2007

Share Your Motivation

NOTE:I apologize for the duplicate post, but I want to reach as many as possible
My sister Patty is my best friend. I remember as a kid, fighting with her like cats and dogs. My mother used to say we would always have each other. She was so right!



Patty has become intrigued by this running, run /walk, treadmill thing. She thought she might feel a little better if she had a daily exercise routine. A challenge she faces living in the north is that it's dark in the morning and dark before she leaves work. She got a mack treadmill and has been using it regularly for a few weeks.

I teed up the possibility of having her join me for the Women Run the World 15k in May. I have sent her a Couch to 5k program and a 15k training program. I think she can do it and she wants to do it. Yay!

I want to put together a goodie basket for her with some essentials, such as good socks, body glide, sport beans, and a book with motivation. Motivation from my friends.

This is where I need your help. Please leave me a comment or email me with some motivation to share with my sister. My goal is to get 365 pieces of advice (tell your friends) to put in a spiral-bound book. I will share the final result with every contributor.

Please include funny, serious, silly, scientific or whatever you like.

I want to show my sister as much support as I can. And I want her to see that everyone of us is behind her and are rooting for her!

Saturday, December 15, 2007

2008 Group Marathon Shout Out!

Ok peeps, any chance we can all get together somewhere in the fall for a group marathon? I would be very interested. I could probably swing anywhere in the US, although I wouldn't want to do anyplace with really warm temps.

Some options might be:
Chicago - October
Des Moines - October
Denver - October
Washington DC - October
Twin Cities - October
San Fransisco - October
Philly - November
Las Vegas - December
Memphis - December
Kiawah Island - December

Thoughts?

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

It's Winter Time!

Hi everyone. Just checking in here. With my marathon behind me, I am thinking ahead. How is everyone occupying themselves this winter? I will do a 5K for fun on 12/15. And I am aiming to become more of a gym person. So what's your story?

Friday, November 2, 2007

Call for new races!

All right, everyone, with October now gone and the holidays fast approaching, it's time to update the side bar. Are you trotting with some turkeys, running with some reindeers or planning to kick off 2008 with a bang, as in a race start gun? Have you decided to add some steps to your Spring?

Let us know by posting them in the comments. And if you're someone who would like to join our group, please send me an email with your name/nickname, the URL for your blog and a link to your online training log, if you have one. You can include your races in the email or post them here.

Thanks! ShirleyPerly

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

UCF 5 Miler Race Report


Summary report:

Race clock time: 50:33 min
Net chip time: 49:51 min

OMG, I broke 50 minutes!!! :-)

Garmin splits:

Mile 1: 9:41 min
Mile 2: 9:29 min
Mile 3: 10:07 min (began losing some steam)
Mile 4: 10:23 min (trying to conserve for the end)
Mile 5: 9:27 min (big finish)

Garmin said I ran 5.1 miles - the last .1 was in 46.65 sec.

See my blog for more details!

Thanks for all the well wishes!!

The Marathon


THE MARATHON

The Marathon is not about running, it is about salvation. We spend so much of our lives doubting ourselves, thinking we’re not good enough, not strong enough, not made of the right stuff. The Marathon is an opportunity for redemption. “Opportunity,” because the outcome is uncertain. “Opportunity,” because it is up to you, and only you, to make it happen.

There is no luck involved in finishing a marathon, the ingredients required to tackle this formidable challenge are straightforward: commitment, sacrifice, grit, and raw determination. Plain and simple.

So you set about in your training to prepare your body for the rigors of running 26.2 miles. You train like crazy, dedicating yourself wholeheartedly to the challenge ahead, pouring everything you’ve got into it. But you know the Marathon will ask for more. In the dark recesses of you mind, a gloomy voice is saying, you can’t. You do your best to ignore this self-doubt, but the voice doesn’t go away.

The Marathon shakes you to the core. It deconstructs your very essence, stripping away all your protective barriers and exposing your inner soul. At a time when you are most vulnerable, the Marathon shows no pity. The Marathon tells you it will hurt you, that it will leave you demoralized and defeated in a lifeless heap on the roadside. The Marathon tells you that it can’t be done, not by you. “Ha!” it torments you, “In your dreams.”

You fight back, however, and stand courageously at that starting line, nervously awaiting the gun to go off. When it does, you put your head down and charge off into the abyss with the knowledge that you either paid your dues, or skimped along the way. There is no lying to yourself, the Marathon sees right through excuses, shortcuts and self-transgressions.

All goes well for the first half. But slowly, step by step, the pain mounts, while the intensity of the endeavor amplifies. You remain steadfast, knowing that you did not skimp, that you did not take shortcuts along the way, that every footstep was earned through months of diligent preparation. Still, with each wearing thrust forward, that little nagging inclination of self-doubt progressively advances toward the surface of your awareness.

Then, at mile twenty, the voice looms louder than ever. It hurts so bad you want to stop. You must stop. But you don’t stop. This time, you ignore the voice, you tune out the naysayers who tell you you’re not good enough, and you listen only to the passion in your heart. This burning desire tells you to keep moving forward. To continue putting one foot boldly in front of the other, and don’t stop. Courage comes in many forms, today you will have the courage to keep trying, to not give up, no matter how dire things become. And dire they do become. At the 26 mile mark, you can barley see the course any longer, your vision is faltering as you teeter on the edge of consciousness.

And then, suddenly before you, looms the finish line. Tears stream down your face as you cover those final few steps. Now you are finally able to answer back to that nagging, pervasive voice with a resounding: Oh yes I can!

You burst across that finish line and are liberated from the prison of self-doubt and limitations that have forever held you captive. You have learned more about yourself in the past 26.2 miles than you have known in a previous lifetime, now you are freed from the chains that bind. Even if you can’t move for a week, you have never been so free.

As you are being carried away from the finish line, wrapped in a flimsy mylar blanket, barely able to raise your head, you are at peace. That daunting adversary that, as a runner, has haunted you for an entire lifetime is now your liberator, you fondest ally. You have done what few will ever do—you have done what you thought you could never do—and it is the most glorious, unforgettable awakening ever. You are, a Marathoner, and you will wear this distinction not on the lapel of your clothing, but in your heart, for the rest of your life.

(from Dean Karnezes blog at http://dean.runnersworld.com/2007/04/index.html)


Congratulations, Maddy on completing your very first marathon!!! And congratulations all on races well run! You have been redeemed!

Monday, October 22, 2007

Go Ladies, Go!!!

Thanks Maddy, I've been thinking about you ladies all day. I hope everyone had a great race. Can't wait to hear about it.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Big Weekend!

This weekend is going to be a pretty busy weekend. There are going to be be a lot of us at various races across the globe.

I wanted to wish everyone luck who has a race this weekend.

Shirley: Siouxland Louis and Clark Marathon, October 20th.

Melisa a.k.a "Irish Blue": Columbus Half Marathon, October 21st.

Petra: Amsterdam Marathon, October 21st.

Maddy: Nike San Francisco Women's Marathon, October 21st.

Marathon Chris: U Can Finish 5 Miler, October 21st.

It's going to be a great weekend!

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

The Great Dolphin Runners!


This picture commemorates the first annual Great Dolphin Run (5 miles
give or take a Mickey Ear). It was a great evening of slow running
around the grand resorts of Walt Disneyworld in Orlando, Florida. We
finished up the night with a decadent table full of french fries and
nachos at the Fountain Restaurant in the Dolphin Hotel... and our
great surprise at the very next table was Steve Ballmer, the CEO of
Microsoft (no lie) quietly enjoying a Mickey Deluxe Cheeseburger and a
big Chocolate Shake. He was in the pressence of real greatness, that
being Marathon Chris, Maddy, Shirley and, of course, The Zen Runner...

Great memories - better friends. On to next year!


Thanks to Adam for the photos, summary and dinner!!

Edited by Chris:

Here is the route around the Dolphin and Boardwalk that we ran:


Sport Tracks says we ran 4.22 miles in 46:37 min. Thanks that everyone ran my slow pace! :-)

Saturday, October 6, 2007

the next big thing?

A few posts ago Chris's post about her run with Maddy mentioned Maddy's suggestion about all running the 2009 Disney Marathon together. Now I will confess I had been thinking of suggesting running a race together next year and Maddy's suggestion is a good one. I can't think I'd be able to keep the family away from this one, for one thing.

But Greg made a different suggestion a week or so ago and I thought I should run it past all of you. He suggested we get a team together to run the Reach for the Beach Relay in New Hampshire next September. This would involve about 1o or 12 of us running a 200 miles across the state in legs of different legs - travelling as a team in 2 vans and supporting whichever one of us is running the race. I've just read a piece in this month's UK RunnersWorld about running relay races and it just seems like so much fun - and we'd be such a great team!

At this point in time there is no information on the website about the 2008 race but if we are interested and can get a team together, I'm quite happy to help to organise this? I could certainly contact the race directors and see what information I could pull together. So what do you think guys?

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

This is What a Marathoner Looks Like

Okay, so it's another post about another cool blog...

Katie, training for her first marathon, posts a regular and a running picture of people who have completed at least one marathon. Check it out here!

Thanks to Tall Girl Running for the heads up!

Several of you qualify. I will in 17 days.

Sunday, September 30, 2007

A Few Miles Together!!

Maddy and I had a marvelous run this morning on the beautiful Seminole-Wekiva Trail. I was very happy to be a part of Maddy's last big run as she now begins her taper going into the San Francisco Women's Marathon.

She was scheduled to do 20 miles today. She was happy to just run 18 or 19 if I did the 7 or 8 I was planning. Instead, I did 10 with her after her first 11....she ran 21 miles! She even let me take my scheduled walking breaks :-). Our overall pace was 11:24 min/mi. I hope I look that good after my 22 miler next week :-)

I took the iRiver along to record our training reports but since I have been device challenged lately, my battery ran out halfway through. Fortunately, I got the better half of the report - so make sure you listen to The Extra Mile Podcast - probably episode 11 - for Maddy's report. I can re-record mine later.

Maddy is going to rock this marathon, she is so ready!!! Oh, and just so you know, she has almost reached her goal for donations, so if you were thinking of supporting her, make sure you get that in soon (and she didn't even pay me to say that). She is representing a good cause and a good friend in her training.

In another week and a half, Maddy and I will be doing a fun run with Shirley and Adam. Only 3-5 miles around Disney's Dolphin hotel and Boardwalk area. Stay tuned!!!

I only wish more of you could join us. Maddy had a great idea for Jan 2009. We think that we should all run the Disney World Marathon together. Just think of what a magical day that could be :-).

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Miracle Mile 15K

Today I ran the Miracle Mile 15K with my husband. The full story is on my blog, but the Reader's Digest version:


Last year: 1:52:27 / 12:03 min/mi (15K PR)

This Year:
Goal: 1:42 / 11 min/mi
Actual Chip time: 1:39:57 (new PR!)
Pace: 10:43 min/mile

I am very pleased with the results!!! :-)

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Check Out the New Info on Races and Training

Shirley, who is much more savvy in web ways than I am, has updated the blog to include our upcoming races along with our training status on the left side of the page. Check it out!!!

If you have races to include post them here and we will try to get them included.

Thanks, Shirley!

Nova to Air Show on Marathoning on Oct 30th

I received an email from NOVA who wondered if I would post some information regarding a show they will be airing in October. I think it is going to be a great show on marathoning - and I wish it was airing BEFORE MCM. Still, it will be something to watch while in recovery.

Here is the info:

In cooperation with the Boston Athletic Association and Tufts University, NOVA was granted unprecedented access to the Boston Marathon course. In the summer of 2006, we began following 13 hopeful novices as they took the first step toward completing the 26.2-mile race in April 2007. The participants come from diverse backgrounds - a young woman running in memory of her mother, who died in a tragic car accident; a working single mom; even a former NFL linebacker. The one unifying element is that none of them is currently a runner. Over the nine-month training period, exercise and nutrition scientists and doctors at Tufts University use sophisticated technology to monitor the physical transformations that the participants have undergone. The experience demands a transformation of mind and body, and NOVA cameras are there, following every step of the way. Who was able to finish the race and what type of changes did the runners experience? You will have to tune in to find out.

"Marathon Challenge" will premiere Tuesday, October 30 at 8:00 pm on most PBS stations. For more information you can go to www.pbs.org/nova/marathon. You can also view a short promo of the show on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHuYNb5Rnxg.

Friday, September 21, 2007

Chili's

Hey everyone! On Monday, September 24th participating Chili's restaurants will donate 100% of their profits to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. So go eat at Chili's and support St. Jude's! www.chilis.com

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Worldwide Half Marathon

Friends, we are a mere three weeks away from the Worldwide Half Marathon! Have you all joined TEAM ELIJAH yet? Do you all have your reminder bands? I have more to send out if you do not. Go team go!

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

What's on your rider?

After my Oprah moment of profundity I have returned, you will be delighted to hear, to my usual level of comfortable inanity. So guys and gals - when the hurly burly's done, when the battle's lost and won, when the marathon is run - what's on your rider? What's the treat you're dreaming of at the end of race day?

Now Melissa has been giving us some insights into her secret treats (chips and dips anyone?) but I'll kick off here. After I run this marathon I will probably hang out in a bar with my parents (it's Amsterdam after all) and smoke a joint (just kidding!). NO! Seriously - I will be buying some beer I imagine. Then the great Dutch tradition of raw pickled herring - it's got to be in your genes I fear. Then maybe chips and mayonnaise - another wonderful Dutch tradition. The kicker is that I'll probably be flying back to the UK in the evening so can't be too inebriated so I'll probably eat a whole enormous bag of black licorice on the flight home (is anyone feeling queasy yet?) and then when I get back to my own house I'll probably pass out (with a big round disgusting belly). If I'm still operating a calorie deficit the next day it looks like I'll be home alone for a few days so that means - control of the remote and back to back Grey's Anatomy and Brothers and Sisters and Weeds and a big bag of tortilla chips with my most recent dip discovery - spoonfuls of Philly mixed with Thai sweet dipping sauce. Oh - and a bottle of Sancerre..

None of you will ever want to party with me will you? At least applaud my honesty. And then give me yours.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Any Guinea Pigs out there?

Hey peeps...

I'm trying to "test" a new way to leave a short training update for The Extra Mile Podcast.

Anyone wanna help me test?

If you are in for it, call 1-513-397-0525 and leave me a short (2 minute) update.

Kevin

That's What I'm Talkin' About!

If you didn't send me your total miles from June 1st, please add them to the comment section below.

Here's how we stand:

  • Charlie: 440.90


  • Susan: 167.70


  • Terry: 110.13


  • Melisa: 175.00


  • Chris: 323.00


  • Maddy: 278.77


  • Total: 1,495.50


    It's amazing to me that collectively we have gone a long, long way. We are missing miles for some, so I would guess we are closer to 2,000 collective miles in less than three months.

    Awesome Job Peeps!

    Sunday, August 26, 2007

    Audio Slide Show and Race Report: Isle of Coll Half Marathon

    Hi Guys. Thought you might enjoy this new entry on my blog. I ran the 10k stretch of the above race yesterday. The Isle of Coll is the island next to the Isle of Tiree, where I live. This is an audio slide show - pictures with my commentary - and there's also a text race report too. Go to www.tiree.blogspot.com

    Friday, August 24, 2007

    Mojo a No Go

    Petra is right. (And she's so darn cute too, isn't she?) Where's the mojo? I would give you all advice, but my mojo is a no go at this point. I'm shooting for some serious goal setting this week. Meanwhile, any advice from you veterans?

    Thursday, August 23, 2007

    who took the mojo?


    Okay guys and gals - time to 'fess up - who took the mojo???? Hey? Where has it gone? I've just posted my latest message and reading round the blogs I can see I'm not the only one struggling. So - what can we do? Tips? Tricks? Motivational songs? Time to share and share alike. We've got some races to run in the near future and would like to get there in one piece.. with minds (somewhat) intact. So let's hear if from y'all - what do you do to get your run on?

    Tuesday, August 21, 2007

    How Many Miles?

    We are just over two and-a-half months into this cooperative blogging effort.

    How many miles have you run since June 1st?

    Please email me (address on my profile) and I will tabulate our total miles as a group.

    I bet there are a lot miles among these great friends...

    Monday, August 13, 2007

    I Have Finished In My Second Half-Marathon!

    These things are always nerve wracking. It was a cool, crisp Saturday in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The starting elevation was 8,500' and the finish elevation was 7,500'.

    I got my bib number (3711) and my shoe chip. Then I sat around watching the people show up. What a group of people! I have no idea how many started the race. I do know that 2,053 finished it. There were 1,150 female and 903 males.

    There was a huge mass of people at the start line. There were people everywhere! The registration table said that there were 3200 entries.

    I never heard the the start gun. Unfortunately, I chose the wrong time to get into line for the porta-potties prior to the start. As I waited in this line (which took forever to move) I kept hearing the countdown go lower and lower. I got out and ran for the back of the group.

    Soon everyone started moving. I figure it took 3 minutes from the starting gun to when I crossed the starting line.

    This was by far the largest group that I have run with yet. As this mass of people started to head into the course, there were bobbing heads and shoulders for as far as I could see.

    It was fun to watch as people in the neighbor hood showed up on their front porches and balconies to watch as this mass of runners passed through their neighborhood.

    We ran through the North side of Georgetown and around the lake. Here is the pack as we return to the starting point where we were catching the frontage road to I-70 to head east.

    The race went well. I was ready for an energy gel at around the 4 mile mark. That's when I remembered that I did not pack them. A lot of good they're going to do me at home on my dresser. Doh! I re-grouped. About the only thing I could do is beg from another runner (too degrading) or concentrate on just getting gatorade at the water stations. That's the plan! I came up on the next water table and what did I grab? I grabbed water! Why'd I do that? Doh! Doh! Doh!

    It was between miles 10 and 12 that I felt the energy drain from my body. I had maintained a fair pace between 10:30 and 11:00 per mile until then. After that, though, it was a matter of making sure that I kept placing that one foot in front of the other! It wasn't until we reached the town of Idaho Springs that I was able to summon up something from deep within. Even that didn't come until the course went downhill. I was able to pass everyone on the downhill run to the finish line!

    I did cross the finish line! I finished at position 1,753.

    I immediately went into the stadium, where I was sure I was going to pass out (it was really getting hot about then). I found some gatorade and sat until I recovered somewhat.

    I found the tent where they were handing out the T shirts and got an energy bar at the same time. Then I saw people with plates of delicious looking food! I went and found that tent!

    I got a plate and loaded it with watermelon slices, oranges, bananas, bagels and cream cheese. I chowed down while listening to the awards and the give-aways! It was a great way to spend the morning.

    Oh yeah... Did I break my previous PR (Personal Record)?

    Yep! Not by much but that doesn't matter! My gun time (official start to finish) was 2:31:21. My chip time was 2:28:01. My last half-marathon was 2:33:22, So I shaved 2:01 off of my gun time, and 5:21 off of my chip time.

    Not too bad for an older guy!

    The time for first place (men's) in this race? 1:09: and some chump change. Amazing! 4:30 + pace for 13 miles!

    The additional training did pay off for me. The additional hills and trail runs were very beneficial. I do know that before I compete again, I will definitely need to do more interval training.

    Sunday, August 12, 2007

    Runner's Toe


    Ugh!!! Well my middle toe on BOTH feet were hurting a bit after getting the new running shoes, but after doing that 18 miler last weekend, I think I finally did them in.

    Now the middle toenails on both feet are a deep shade of red and getting darker (good bye nail). I did some research on line and it had horrible stories of popping the blisters under the nail and such. As you can tell this is my first experience.

    It appears that my new Asics (Kayano 13) have a pointier toe than the old Brooks Addictions I have had forever. So this past week I have brought out the old Brooks for running and need to get back to the store to get a different pair of running shoes, this time with more room in the toe box.

    My right middle toe does not hurt so much but the left one is still tender. I am able to tie the Brooks with my foot at the back on the heel to relieve any pressure on the toe. Fortunately, my long run tomorrow is only 10 miles.

    Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

    Thursday, August 2, 2007

    My next half-marathon is getting close...

    What can I say? I am glad it will be in the front range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains! Temperatures will be much cooler and it will be scenic. The race benefits the Clear Creek County School Boosters system.

    This is the largest race that I will have participated in as of yet. It is estimated to have 3,000 participants at the 7:00 AM starting line. I am planning on starting at the back of the pack and will attempt an 11 minute pace.

    I will run it, and I have a friend that has volunteered to assist at the Finish line in retrieving the chips.

    My training has not been as complete as the last half-marathon I participated in, although I have put in the miles.

    I am starting to concentrate on nutrition and hydration so I know I will be ready for the race.

    The race is explained here should anyone be interested -
    http://www.co.clear-creek.co.us/New/Half%20Marathon%20081107.htm

    For those members of Team Elijah - I will be wearing my "Pray For Elijah" band in the race.

    Let's get some banter going here - Inspire me!

    Wednesday, July 25, 2007

    Where Is Everyone?

    Hi folks. This is a just a quick check-in. It seems that the blog world has been oh so quiet lately. I guess everyone is busy with summertime activities, as am I.

    I would like to extend some major kudos to Chris, Kevin and Nigel for their excellent podcast: The Extra Mile Podcast. I listened this morning while trying to accomplish some impossible intervals.

    So, everyone, make your presence known!

    Tuesday, July 17, 2007

    Roadrunner Sports

    A friend told me about Roadrunner Sports over the weekend. He said has been nothing but impressed with their customer service and return policy.

    I signed up for their email notification and the welcome letter said that shoes can be exchanged within 60 days as a part of their Fit Garauntee.



    Their VIP club is about $40, but you save 10% and get free shipping on your purchases. If you think about it, if you buy four pair of shoes a year, you would break even.

    Thursday, July 12, 2007

    IPODs and Lightening

    As a fierce storm with lots of thunder and lightening moved over my house just now, I happened to see this CNN article about the hazards of wearing an IPOD when lightening might be present.

    I've been caught in such a thunderstorm while running outside a couple times. The storm just seemed to come out of nowhere and, foolishly, I continued running instead of crouching down low and staying away from trees or other tall objects. I never wear an IPOD while running outside, but if I did I probably would not have thought to remove it.

    Please be safe, especially those of us who live in Central FL, the Lightning Capital of the U.S.!

    I was so much older then, I'm younger than that now ...

    ... so goes the refrain in Bob Dylan's song, My Back Pages.

    I was running on the beach at Gott Bay last night. It was a pleasant evening. I was thinking to myself how, about a year or so ago, my attitude to running was "I wish I had thought about this 25 years ago". It was almost as if I was trying to convince myself that I might have had a much more fulfilling life if I had only done a little more exercise. Or maybe I believed it was too late to make a difference.

    Last night, during a round trip of five miles on the beach, I suddenly realised what poppy-cock this was.

    At the back of my mind, you see, is the knowledge that my father passed away when he was 63 and his father died when he was 62. I suppose I've been presuming the same thing will happen to me.

    So I came to a decision last night. I decided to live for at least another thirty years.

    I decided this at about mile four.

    Running is a funny thing like that: you start off, knowing how many miles you have to run, feel the task a little daunting. Early cramp and a bit of puffing and blowing try to convince you that this is a bad idea and that you should stop, go home, get a cool can of lager from the fridge and put your feet up.

    The thing is, by the time you get past the half way mark on your run you realise the pain has gone and that you're actually enjoying yourself. That's when I start to get inspirational ideas like I will live another thirty years.

    The seed for this idea - I realise this now - was when I was talking to a young friend last week and thought to myself "when I was your age I was much younger than you". You can figure that one out for yourself.

    This led to me thinking about my elders, in particular my father. When I look at pictures of him when he was roughly the age I am now he looks like such an old man. Now, maybe I look like an old geezer to younger people on Tiree and I certainly don't claim to know how my father felt when he was my age but you know - I don't feel all that different from how I felt thirty years ago - health-wise, at least.

    Nowadays it's not uncommon to hear things like 'fifty is the new forty'. The general assumption is that because we eat a healthier and more balanced diet, because (in this country at least) we have a higher standard of living than our predecessors did and because we have access to a health service (which, when all is said and done, is a pretty remarkable thing) we have a more positive attitude to life and this translates into longevity.

    But this isn't a passive state of affairs. I think you have to do something yourself - such as a bit of exercise (and it doesn't have to be a lot, not even running) and do something to stimulate the old grey matter.

    It 'aint over 'till it's over.

    So I've come to the conclusion that, far from being almost over, life is, in fact, and in many ways, just beginning. It's an adventure, every day.

    Do not go gentle into that good night, as Dylan Thomas says, rage, rage against the dying of the light.

    For my part the light isn't dying. It isn't even flickering.

    Wednesday, July 11, 2007

    I've almost decided on my next half-marathon

    I am so close to signing up for my next half-marathon. The first one was so very exhilarating. I don’t think I performed as well as I could have, but it was high in altitude and in elevation. The one that I am contemplating runs from Georgetown, Colorado to Idaho Springs. It is a drop in elevation of 1,000 feet. Lately, that has become nothing for me. I’m still not as fast as I’d like to be, but I’m only 54 years young!

    It will also be by first race that will end in a stadium!

    If you are interested, you can read about the race here - Georgetown to Idaho Springs, Colorado 29th Annual Half-Marathon.

    I have been training for it. I have the ability to get a shuttle for Colorado trail rides almost every weekend. I go with a bunch of Jeeps on a trail ride. I get to drive half and run the other half. It gives me a cool (not city hot) running environment in the beautiful Colorado backcountry.

    What do you think? Should I do it?

    Tuesday, July 10, 2007

    Hug a Runner!


    I got my Pray for Elijah band last week also.
    Thanks Susan!!!

    Sunday, July 8, 2007

    Look Both Ways Before You Cross...


    It's no secret, I love my iPod. I think that most of us listen to music or podcasts (or both) when we're running.

    For safety's sake, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. If you need a reminder, read this news story.

    If it didn't come from a reputable source, I would think this was an urban myth.

    Tuesday, July 3, 2007

    Guess What I Got in the Mail?

    I just checked the mail and recieved my Pray for Elijah band!

    A HUGE Shout out to Susan for her touching note and kindess for sending these bracelets to us!

    I am wearing mine now.

    Come run with me!

    As some of you know, I'm heading out to Canada (Vancouver) next week with my family on a 3 week home exchange. Two of the weeks we'll be in Vancouver, the last week we're going on a road trip to Seattle and the Olympic peninsula. I love running on holiday - it's a great way to get a feel for the place and I can imagine that running in Vancouver is amazing - Stanley Park etc. sounds wonderful and a nice change from Lincolnshire - but does anyone out there know a runner out there who might take me on their favourite loop in Vancouver? Failing that, can anyone recommend great running routes? Any suggestions welcome.

    Monday, July 2, 2007

    What's Fueling You?

    I was reading a comment on Shirley's Blog earlier today where she mentioned she had worked through a performance limiter - nutrition.

    Maybe because I just got back from vacation, which included dining out for every meal, so I was eating things I normally wouldn't...

    I have been thinking a lot today about what others are fueling themseves with before they run. I understand that this sort of thing requires a lot of trial and error and it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.

    I know that I feel stronger on long runs when I have pasta with sausage. I have experimented with ground beef and it just doesn't have the same effect. But does it make sense to have that for dinner every Friday night? What else is there to eat to add variety yet keep me strong?

    I want to make wise fuel choices that will help increase my performance.

    What works for you?

    Friday, June 29, 2007

    Pray For Elijah reminder bands are in!

    I have just received word from Elijah's dad, Britt, that the oodles of reminder bands I order are in! He will bring them to me today at lunchtime. So... if you'd like one, please e-mail me your address. My e-mail address can be found on my profile page. I will try to get them in the mail over the weekend. It is likely that your next longrun can be accomplished while wearing a "Pray For Elijah" reminder band!

    Elijah gives this idea two thumbs up!

    Thursday, June 28, 2007

    Give it a listen

    Nothing I can say could compare to the AWESOME post of Susan's below! Running a marathon is such a cool thing by itself, but pairing that feat with becoming a St. Jude Hero is something I can't even come up with the rights words to describe!

    I did want to make you all aware of a new podcast the MarathonChris, Nigel and I have put together to help follow all of YOUR awesome running events you have planned this fall/winter. So Susan, grab your microphone and get over to http://www.theextramilepodcast.com/ and tell us all what you have planned and how you are doing!

    That goes for the rest of you too, my Blog Buddies!

    Kevin

    Wednesday, June 27, 2007

    Running For A Reason

    You can read the whole story over at my blog if you like... but I plan to train for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon (12/1/07) in honor of our friend Elijah!!! AND I am going to set a PR!!! Since it will be my second marathon, I think it is realistic to focus on a faster time and not just finishing. Here is my inspiration:

    Tuesday, June 26, 2007

    Who's Doing What???

    Hi Everyone! Since we're sharing our training here on this blog, I thought it'd be nice to have a little table in the side bar that said what major race we're training for and the race date, with links to the person's blog for more info. If you're training for more than one big race in the Fall or Winter, feel free to mention all of them.

    So ... if you want to be included in the table, just leave a comment. When most of us have replied, Chris and I will get that table up so we can see at a glance who's doing what!

    Sunday, June 24, 2007

    Race Alert

    I just read that the Nike Women's Race has been so successful in San Francisco, that that Nike is adding a new half marathon in Chicago on April 20, 2008.

    I haven't seen any registration or additional information, other than what I read in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Newsletter.

    I am going to keep an eye out for registration information. And will keep everyone posted.

    If I can swing it, I'm going to run this one.

    Friday, June 22, 2007

    No more blisters - allegedly

    Hey all - in great haste but just wanted to share the following - went to see a podiatrist on Monday who sold me this stuff. I have some hard skin beneath my big toe and apparently smoothing some of this underneath it (1mm thick, we are metric in these parts) before putting on running socks and sweating in my shoes for a while should do the trick. He is a climber (the podiatrist) and also claims this stuff works miracles for blister hot spots - just put a layer on before putting on your socks and hey presto! no more blisters!

    Don't know whether you can get this stuff on your side of the Atlantic but their other products are outstanding so I think it's probably good stuff. I'm heading over to Canada in 2 weeks and am happy to post a stash out to all interested parties from there - just let me know.

    That's all for now! Happy weekend running!

    I'm All a' Twitter

    Marathon Chris mentioned in a comment several days ago about the possibility of twitter updates in real-time as we particpate in the PWWHM. I don't know if we'll all be running at the exact same time, on the same day or any of the logistical details. But we have time to work that out.



    I went to the twitter site and created an account for myself. It took less than five minutes, and that includes uploading a picture.

    //PEER PRESSURE
    If you don't have a twitter account, you should get one, all the cool kids are doing it. // End PEER PRESSURE

    Tuesday, June 19, 2007

    Elijah has been tagged!


    This handsome devil is Elijah -- of Team Elijah fame. His family and mine spent several hours together on Sunday. We are photographed here just before starting a game of mini-golf. (I conveniently cropped out mine and Chasen's heads!) His yellow t-shirt is a commemorative one; last year he hosted his very own lemonade stand to raise awareness of childhood cancer. It was quite successful! He will do the same again this summer.
    Elijah's website is http://www.prayforelijah.com/. He is doing very well with his second round of chemo. In fact, he his this week OFF and gets to go hang out with friends at his summer care program.
    At Marathon Chris's suggestion, I "tagged" Elijah (his mom, actually) so that we may all learn six odd facts about him. Here they are: (thanks, Dawn!!!)
    1. He has a scar on his tongue. When he was one year old he fell at daycare and bit ALL THE WAY through his tongue.. He still has a scar which he proudly shows anyone.

    2. He is teaching himself to write in cursive. He asked for a workbook to learn how to write each letter and practices regularly. He already knows how to sign his name.. Not bad for just finishing kindergarten.

    3. Last summer Elijah got to swim in the Atlantic Ocean and meet Mickey Mouse on the East Coast. This summer he will get to swim in the Pacific Ocean and meet Mickey on the West Coast!

    4. Elijah was the first kid at Arkansas Children’s Hospital to assist in his own bone marrow transplant! The procedure is an IV push of the stem cells and Elijah wanted to push his own. Quite impressive!!!

    5. Elijah is named after his grandfather, Elijah Everett Talley, Jr. and his great grandfather, Elijah Everett Talley, Sr. (Elijah’s Papa goes by his middle name, though.)

    6. Every year on his birthday, Elijah has his picture taken in the hospital shirt his dad wore on the day he was born so we can see how much he grows from year to year.

    FYI: Powerade 59cents, maybe

    This post may or may not be prevalent to you. First, if you don't like Powerade, you can move on... it's not for you. Second, you have to have a Food City (grocery store/supermarket) near you.

    On my visit to Food City this morning, there was a huge display of Powerade for 88 cents each. Powerade usually costs about $1 at Wal-mart, so it was a good deal. But if you bought 10 32oz bottle, you got 5 for free, thus lowering your cost to 59cents each.

    In the past local convenience stores have offered a BOGO free deal, but at $1.59, that's still 80 cents a bottle.

    I can not confirm if this at all Food Cities or just the one in Tennessee.

    Monday, June 18, 2007

    Interval training - it hurts but it works

    This weekend's New York Times had an article on interval training which seems to prove that interval training works.. What a painful reality! (e-mail me if link doesn't work and I'll send you a pdf).

    I for one am now determined to turn Uncle Hal's shorter runs into interval sessions. MarathonChris is just bombing ahead and I need to get myself speedier and intervals, it seems, are the answer..

    Saturday, June 16, 2007

    Angels and Devils

    Work-wise, it's been a heavy week for me. A bit stressful, to be honest. I once heard someone say that 80% of the things we worry about never come to pass. I don't know if that's true or not but certainly everything worked out for me in the end.

    So here I am, it's Saturday and I put in my first run of the week this morning. I kept telling myself that I just couldn't get it together to go out running. Bed time just couldn't come fast enough these past few days.

    But it really didn't have anything to do with fatigue. It had everything to do with my head.

    I notice this morning as I was running the he wasn't with me. I guess you know who I'm talking about -that voice that appears in your head every now and again when you are out running. It says stuff like you don't really intend to keep this up for another five miles? Surely three will do ... ?

    But he didn't appear once this morning. Well folks, that's the first time this week he hasn't been screwing up my running schedule.

    Okay, I know there really is not little devil sitting on shoulder whispering temptations into my eye. Discipline is everything in running, it seems to me. And this has been a weak week for me.

    Here's something I heard recently: 90% of running is psychological and the other 10% is all in your head.

    Probably if I had got myself together and gone out running it would have been a better week. I still intend to run my training schedule before my 'running week' ends tomorrow, Sunday. Maybe my running guardian angel will appear and encourage me to new heights.

    Let this be a lesson to me.

    Friday, June 15, 2007

    The Perfect Storm

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:


    Irish Blue in a Running Shoe Mentioned on Wildly Popular Email Marketing Voodoo Blog

    Our friend Melisa and her post on Champion's Vapor Bra received a mention and a link in the Email Marketing Blog, Email Marketing Voodoo

    Kudos to Melisa for being a part of the Perfect Storm!

    - END -

    Making it Work

    After reading Cory's post, becuase I had been planning the same thing (except the whole running in Italy part)I looked at the FAQ's for the PWWHM. And I realized that if I am going to make this work with my marathon taper, I will need to run a sanctioned race on October 6th when I have a 13 mile run scheduled. The next week, the offical week of the PWWHM, my schedule calls for nine miles.



    So do I just run 13 miles eight days before my marathon? Or do I go to Jacksonville to run the Marine Corps Half Marathon On October 6th? It's about a two or two-and-a-half drive from here.

    On the off chance that one of you are thinking about it - Is anyone planning on running the half in Jacksonville? Marathon Chris? I don't know what your training schedule calls for that weekend, but you could make October a Marines month...

    Thoughts?

    Thursday, June 14, 2007

    Decided

    OK, I have decided what is going to happen for my World Wide Half Race. I have finally signed up and am entrant #231. You can find my running under Corman on BuckeyeOutdoors. Since I cannot commit to a Half-marathon the weekend of October 13-14, and there are no organized races in my area the weekend before, I am going to use a very nice training run for my race. I know it is a little outside of the rules but I am going to run and if my time is not allowed then at least I ran.

    A cool twist, however, is I am also going to run a 5K the weekend of the WWH. I will be somewhere off the coast of Italy on a cruise ship and am going to make a 5K run on the ship's running track. I think that will be fun!

    Wednesday, June 13, 2007

    10 Days!

    10 days to go to my very first half-marathon race!

    Oh, the misery of anticipation and the final few days of training!

    Tips, please!

    Monday, June 11, 2007

    Team Elijah is now Active

    For those who are participating in the PWWHM, I have created a Team Elijah. Just log in, go to the teams page and select that team!

    Sunday, June 10, 2007

    Back In Town

    Hello all! I'm thankful to be back at home. This marks the third weekend in a row that I've traveled. And my boss wants to have us up to his cabin this next weekend. I'm going to try my hardest to get out of it! It all sounds fun... but being away is hard after a while. It takes a lot out of me these days!

    I did manage to stay on my training plan while I was in Louisiana. Contrary to days gone by, running gear is starting to overtake my suitcase!

    Have an excellent week.

    ~Susan

    Help with Swimming



    Picture from http://www.colorado.edu/rec-center/programs/club-sports/swimming.html


    Well, I am really enjoying the spirit of cross training. With the heat of summer now full upon us here in Florida, I got in some swimming yesterday and today. After 15 min, I am really beat. Not to mention that the motion of swimming doesn't seem very natural for me yet.

    I could use any and all advice about swimming: correct motion, what to do with my feet, how to breathe, basic equipment, etc.

    Perhaps I can extend the swimming to closer to 30 min if I work at it.

    Lose Weight, Gain Speed

    For those of you who don't get Runner's World, this chart was also posted on CRN in this article:

    http://completerunning.com/archives/2007/06/08/lose-weight-get-faster/#comment-11937

    Saturday, June 9, 2007

    Bloks, Gu, Gel and Beans

    I have had virtually no experience with supplemental running fuel, such as Bloks, Gu, Gel and Beans. I know this is something I will want to experiment as my long runs get longer.

    I don't even know where to start.

    I have run eight half marathons and experimented with Gu only at the Disney Half last January - I have always skipped it in the past. What did I learn? Apple Pie Gu isn't my favorite.





    My Questions:


  • What tastes good?


  • When do I eat it (is it even eating?)


  • What else do I need to know?
  • Where I Run

    I thought you guys might like to see one of my 'running tracks' here on my small Hebridean island. Go to www.tiree.blogspot.com to watch a very short video (only one minute) I made very early this morning.

    Like Charles, I am something of a new boy when it comes to running. About 14 months ago I started training for the first ever Tiree 10k, discovered the Phedippidations podcast, and found myself getting into the mind-set of being a runner.

    Actually, I'm more of a jogger (a term I don't have the least bit problem with). A couple of weeks back I ran the second Tiree 10k and was really upset with myself because I didn't manage to come in under the hour. (I actually came in at about 01:03 on a very hot afternoon.)

    Then a few days later I was out for a very easy paced 'jog'. I thought to myself, "this feels really good, I wish it could always feel this good". And that's when I had one of those 'DOH!' moments.

    Who said anything about me having to run (or jog) at whatever pace? The idea is to enjoy the run, not to transform myself into some kind of elder athlete.

    Honest, it was something of a revelation. I've been really enjoying my running ever since. It's about a lifestyle choice, maintaining a good level of fitness and feeling good about myself and those around me. It's not about becoming Tiree's answer to Paul Tergat.

    Oh well, that's my little rant. Run long, brothers and sisters!

    Friday, June 8, 2007

    Who Am I?

    Just wanted to take a moment or two to introduce myself.

    I am a 54 year old runner. I have been running for health since November of 2005. At that time I was diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome. What does that mean? Fat and lazy. I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, was pre-diabetic and wore size 42 pants with a XXXL shirt. Not a good thing.

    My Doctor worked with me to change my diet and to run. I was prescribed an 1800 calorie diet (low card, low glycemic, low fat, low sodium). The real advantage? I learned to run!

    Six months later I had low cholesterol (dramatically), lower blood pressure, was no longer pre-diabetic, lost 60+ pounds and was wearing size 34 pants and L shirts. I was convinced! Running is for me.

    I met Susan through a podcast that we both listened to. Susan introduced me to two things - competitive running and blogging! I appreciate her friendship a great deal.

    Blogging is a wonderful thing and I feel that I know all of you through your blogs. Thanks for sharing your experiences and challenges with me as I am an improved person through those blogs.

    I ran my first 5K race last month and in 14 days I will run my first half-marathon.

    Running for a Cause

    When I am running, I think about a lot of things. One thing I think about is how fortunate I am that I can even run, when there are lots of people out there who can barely walk - or people who are struggling just for their lives. I have this idea that I would like to run "for" someone - but really hadn't identified anyone. But I got an idea while reading the story of a young man who is almost 6 years old and is fighting for the second time in 2 years with a cancer known as Neuroblastoma.

    Elijah Talley is a good friend of Susan's. I discovered his website through Susan's blog. I signed his guest book and received email each time an update was made to the website. I had kind of stopped reading it until recently when I went to the website to read an update. At that time I discovered that the cancer he had fought off had returned and he is now back in chemotherapy.

    One recent journal entry offered wristbands for sale to remind people to pray for Elijah. I thought it would be cool to wear the wrist band while running to remind me to think and pray for Elijah while out on the road. Then I thought it might be cool if our little band of runners would do that this summer as we prepare for our fall half and full marathons.

    That would be it - just wearing the bands and remembering him while we train. There is no obligation and if you are not interested you don't have to participate. Just an idea I thought I would share. I will be doing it hope that some of you might join me as well :-)

    Run Strong!!

    Thursday, June 7, 2007

    Parrott Predictor



    Parrots from http://groups.msn.com/DigitalArtBoard/tutorialslisting.msnw


    No, a Parrott Predictor has nothing to do with birds estimating your running performance. From the running log spreadsheet I use (which I cannot for the life of me recall where I downloaded it from) the Parrott Predictor is described as follows:

    "George Parrott, known affectionately as "Coach George" on the Dead Runners Society listserve, presented this idea a couple of years ago. He suggests that a runner can run no faster in the Marathon than he runs his fastest 26.2 miles in a week during training."

    Now that I have surpassed 26.2 miles in a single week, my Predictor tool is predicting.

    For the first week of January (when I ran the Disney Marathon) the Parrott Predictor had me running a marathon in no more than 5:38:11 (my actual chip time was 5:47:27 - pretty close considering the heat that day - although 26.2 of those miles were the actual marathon).

    For the week starting May 21st, when I ran 28.3 total miles, the Parrott has my best marathon time at 5:04:12.

    For the week starting May 28th, when I ran 29.9 total miles, the Parrott has my best time at 4:52:44.

    I'm thinking a 5 hour marathon might be in my grasp!! Raaawwwwk!

    Wednesday, June 6, 2007

    Finding the water

    I had a great swim today and beat some of my times that I have been loosely recording on my swimming. Not that I have the same passion for swimming that I have for running, but I enjoyed the fact that I have been getting faster in the pool. I even attempted to do a flip turn and although I looked like a sick walrus at flip time, I didn't get water up my nose.

    I am not sure what I will be able to do Thursday and Friday for working out at lunchtime but we will see.

    Instant Messenger Idea


    Thought it might be cool to share Instant Messenger screen names so we could all IM each other. Think that's a good idea? Maybe not post it here, but we could email them. I know AOL and MSN talk to each other. I assume Yahoo does as well. I KNOW Nigel and I like the idea. We've been chatting about the rest of you!! ;-)


    What's everyone think?

    Running tidbits

    Petra, you are just too cute!

    I thought this might be a good blog to share running tidbits, articles, and interesting info we come across.

    If you get Runner's World, check out the Lose Weight, Gain Speed chart on pg 68. I think we've discussed this in our blogs. According to the chart, losing 10 pounds could shave 8:44 minutes off your marathon time, 20 pounds shaves off 17:28! Even if these are estimated times, I find this really motivating. So motivating, I just passed up an ice cream bar. I'm a tower of self-control, aren't I...bahahahah.

    Another online article I thought was interesting appeared on CRN today, the link: http://completerunning.com/archives/2007/06/04/a-letter-to-mrs-mccarthy-part-two/

    Parts of it were a little technical, but I liked the overall point he was making about how the body changes and adapts to the stress we put it under, which is basically how we improve time/speed. Very cool...

    Tuesday, June 5, 2007

    No long runs yet but the joy will come


    Sorry to not have posted yet - Maddy, Chris, Susan, Melissa, Terry, Gordon, Kevin and whoever else joins up - what a great running community we have created here already. And you know what? It's already working as a motivational tool for me.. Yesterday I was scheduled for 30 mins of cross training. Summer has FINALLY arrived here so I was out in the pool but after 15 minutes of breaststroke I could no longer cope with the boredom. Knowing that I would have to fess up to everyone here though I then went upstairs and did another 20 minutes on the elliptical..

    Given that I am artistically incompetent I can't match Melissa or Maddy's artistic endeavours I had my 6 year old take a picture of me showing what I think of the blog! Cheesy but true!

    Keep on running and sharing!

    Scotland Calling

    Hello from Scotland. Gordon here. Posting just to say 'hi' and how glad I am to be part of this group. I'm a 51 year-old slightly overweight runner aiming for the PWWHM and a couple of other races later in the year. This is a great idea Chris, well done.

    "Long" is a relative term

    8.75 miles yesterday.. my LONG run! Felt great after I finished but sore later. Need to add some hill training and tempo runs soon.

    Monday, June 4, 2007

    I love this blog!

    I have just returned from North Carolina (see my blog). I did manage to squeeze in a 2-miler while I was there.

    Sunday, June 3, 2007

    Super Long Run

    12.66 miles in 2 hours 31 min and 12 sec. That is under a 12 min/mi pace (yay me) with a AHR of 155 (middle of aerobic zone). I felt pretty good the entire run!

    21 weeks until MCM 2007!!

    Ditto...thanks Chris!

    Thanks so much for getting this blog going Chris. Looks great!

    Saturday, June 2, 2007

    Shout out to Marathon Chris!

    Shout Out to Marathon Chris for setting up this blog so we can all see far we're running collectively as we ramp up for our fall Marathons and Half Marathons.

    Marathon Chris... You're a ROCKSTAR!

    Friday, June 1, 2007

    Let's Rock and Roll

    All right! Another awesome blog! Phedippidations World Wide Half registratoin opens today! I hope that you can participate in this event as part of what ever Fall Race you are going to race. Maybe it will be your premier event!

    I'm undecided what I am going to run... I am eyeballing Chickamauga Marathon (Georgia) or Harpeth Hills Marathon (Tennessee) as fall marathons...

    Our Miles Tracking Blog is Up and Running!

    Well, here it is folks!!! Let me know if you want to change the template or anything else. I have sent email invites to folks I have email addresses for. If you want posting access just send me your email address and I will add you. You can send it to me at marathonchris@gmail.com.

    Also, let me know what your id is on Buckeye so we can link your training to this site. I think I can do it...or maybe you will need to.

    Let's see how this works! Happy running!!!