As some of you might recall, I committed to write 5 posts each week for the last 3 weeks before the marathon. So far...I'm on target. What most you of don't know is that my challenge came with certain...let's call them "requirements." MK mandadated that a certain number of the entries have a twist/touching ending (a request that a sap like myself could easily oblige), while KC stated that at least one of my entries had to be in the form of a poem or a puzzle. So....it is with great pleasure I present, for your reading pleasure and cultural edification...."Ode to a Gu"
When training for a marathon one really must remember
That whether weather's hot or cold in May, June or December
Your body needs some time to heal for when it takes a beating
And no you cannot hitch a ride for that would just be cheating
Instead, be sure to bring along some little packs of power
And take them every 45 or at least one every hour
At first the taste is horrifying and makes you want to spit
The package says it's strawberry but it's more akin to sh*t
Worse than that the viscous mass'll make you lose your footing
Like chomping vaseline or styling gel or maybe instant pudding
But supress the gags and swallow hard and continue on your way
Cause in five to ten your little friend will help you through the fray
It may just be a mental kick, or perhaps a caffeinated jolt
You're legs are weak and back is tired but still you'll want to bolt
So keep a around a pack or two to help you pass the miles
They'll get you up and down the hills and through the other trials
So pack your belt and hit the trail and don't forget the GU
Just don't except these little friends to run the race without you
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Preparations
So much to do!
I never realized how stressful packing for a marathon would be. There are obvious things that everyone thinks about...the running clothes you will wear for the race, the shoes, your running watch...but there is also a whole list of things that I would never think of. For example, chap stick for the frigid weather, plastic bags for the wet ground, old shoes for before the race, clothes to discard before you start running, toilet paper for...well, for what toilet paper is used for.
I have spent so much time focused on being physically, mentally and emotionally ready for this marathon, that I forget I have to pack.
There are so many contingencies to plan for...rain, no rain...cold, not so cold, warm, hot...wet ground, hard ground...and you want to be prepared for it all.
The funny thing is that the one consistent piece of advice you will receive when you are planning to run a marathon is "don't do anything on marathon day that you didn't do while you were training." Not EXACTLY sure how that is possible...I will be in New York City, taking a ferry and a bus to get to the start line, waiting for several hours outside in 40 degree weather, starting 6 hours after I normally start running, and running for a crowd numbering greater than 1 million spectators. Just a typical Sunday run.
The beauty of running is that all it takes is a pair of shoes and a piece of dirt. Apparently running a marathon requires that, plus enough stuff to fill a hang-up bag and a full sized suitcase.
Timmy
I never realized how stressful packing for a marathon would be. There are obvious things that everyone thinks about...the running clothes you will wear for the race, the shoes, your running watch...but there is also a whole list of things that I would never think of. For example, chap stick for the frigid weather, plastic bags for the wet ground, old shoes for before the race, clothes to discard before you start running, toilet paper for...well, for what toilet paper is used for.
I have spent so much time focused on being physically, mentally and emotionally ready for this marathon, that I forget I have to pack.
There are so many contingencies to plan for...rain, no rain...cold, not so cold, warm, hot...wet ground, hard ground...and you want to be prepared for it all.
The funny thing is that the one consistent piece of advice you will receive when you are planning to run a marathon is "don't do anything on marathon day that you didn't do while you were training." Not EXACTLY sure how that is possible...I will be in New York City, taking a ferry and a bus to get to the start line, waiting for several hours outside in 40 degree weather, starting 6 hours after I normally start running, and running for a crowd numbering greater than 1 million spectators. Just a typical Sunday run.
The beauty of running is that all it takes is a pair of shoes and a piece of dirt. Apparently running a marathon requires that, plus enough stuff to fill a hang-up bag and a full sized suitcase.
Timmy
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Beginning
Since this is the last week before my marathon, I thought it would be fitting to talk a little bit about the beginning.
As all of you know, the last 2 years have been a period of pretty dramatic change in my life. On December 26, 2008, I decided that I had had enough of being overweight and out of shape and set out to change it...all of it. I'm not done yet, and I won't be done when I cross the finish line in New York, but the trajectory has changed...permanently.
On Christmas day in 2008 I woke up full of the usual Christmas excitement and anxious to get the day started. I also woke up feeling...well...bloated. Christmas is far and away my favorite time of year, and between the parties, the trips to Duncanville to see the family and the office merriment, I had eaten my way through the holiday season (like any red blooded American). As I do every day (and sometimes multiple times a day) I stepped on the scale in my bathroom when I got home that night and after a few blinks it read "354". Sadly, I wasn't overly shocked or upset by that number. It had been a long time coming. I remember very clearly the day I stepped on the scale before college and it said "299". I vowed it would never say "300", but things happen, pizzas get eaten and next thing you know...bam...you're morbidly obese.
This revelation gave me no pause as I continued to enjoy the Christmas festivities and merry-making. But the next day, I stepped on my scale again. I waited for the screen to blink its customary blinks. I waited for a number somewhere in the neighborhood of 354 to pop up. I just waited...as per usual. When I looked down again, all the scale said was "Error."
I had broken the scale.
The earth did not shake. The lights did not flicker. I just knew, at that moment, it was time for things to change.
The picture on the left was taken about 6 months before I managed to break the scale...the picture on the right was taken 2 months ago after one of our Saturday 12 mile runs).
From that day until May 2009, the only thing I changed about my lifestyle was what I ate. I did go to the gym occassionally, but I really did not "workout" in any meaningful since of the word. By mid-May I had lost 30 pounds but had hit a wall. I was seeing (and still do see) a nutritionist named Jill Lane (http://www.jilllane.com/), who I adore, and we decided that the only way through the wall was through exercise.
Enter Kristi. My wee blonde friend was already planning to run the NYC marathon in November of 2009. She was investigating running programs and had decided to sign up with Luke's Locker to train for the summer. At some point we must have discussed my need/desire to get serious with my exercise, because Kristi encouraged me to sign up for a program at Luke's called Get With It...which was designed for people "just like me" who had never run before...the program was supposed to take you from zero to a half marathon in 6 months. I remember telling Kristi that I wouldn't and couldn't run and that was final. I also remember climbing onto a treadmill with Kristi on the next machine and hearing her say "all you have to do is run for 1 minute...that's it, just 1 minute." And so I did. At the end of that minute I decided (possibly due to the pure pain and exhaustion I was no doubt feeling at that moment) that I would give it a go.
Later that night, I called MK to tell her that I had lost it. Before I could finish completing the sentence which started "I've decided to sign up for a running..." MK's response was "I'm in."
Now it's been almost 2 years. I've lost 90 pounds and about 15% body fat. I weighed 264 when I stepped on the scale this morning...which is only 40 pounds from where I want to end up. Like I said, I'm not done yet.
When I look back over the past 2 years I am struck by something that may seem odd to people who have never struggled with their weight. When I look back, I don't remember a single thing that I didn't eat. Two years ago I viewed passing up food as passing up an opportunity...I would never be able to eat that exact thing again and I had to seize the moment or regret letting it pass me by. Wasn't I taught to live life to the fullest! My happiness was contingent on what I consumed. Now it's only influenced by what I don't.
Success in life is not measured by your waist size. Perhaps more importantly, neither is failure. But I do think success is measured by little victories. So far I can count 90 little victories. And on Sunday I will count 26.2 more.
Timmy
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
One (Satur)Day More...
Apparently, I am all about the Les Miserable references today...
Tomorrow morning is the last Saturday of my training! The last Saturday I have to wake up at 4:30 and make my way to White Rock Lake. The last loop around the lake this training season. The last Friday nights of playing by the rules and eating/sleeping as directed. And perhaps most significant of all...the last trip to the Taco Joint.
It hardly seems possible that 24 weeks ago I went to the lake for my first of many runs this year. For an entire month before that, MK and I did practice runs a few times a week, just to build up to the initial 5 mile time trial. Having done the program last year with Get With It! (TM), I can tell you with no small amount of confidence that this year's program was hotter, muggier, more draining, more exhausting, and more rewarding than the regimen I endured the year before.
I am so thankful for my coaches, who offered encouragement and coolers full of refreshing beverages every single week. But I am even more grateful for Cat, Bethany, Jon, and of course, MK and KC, who fulfilled the role of faithful running buddies each and every week. Truly, having friends to pass the time and the miles makes it so much more rewarding. They keep you motivated, accountable and honest. I truly couldn't have done it without them.
I have loved this experience, and, who knows, would at least consider doing it again...maybe...but for now, I am really looking forward to having my Friday nights again!
Timmy
Tomorrow morning is the last Saturday of my training! The last Saturday I have to wake up at 4:30 and make my way to White Rock Lake. The last loop around the lake this training season. The last Friday nights of playing by the rules and eating/sleeping as directed. And perhaps most significant of all...the last trip to the Taco Joint.
It hardly seems possible that 24 weeks ago I went to the lake for my first of many runs this year. For an entire month before that, MK and I did practice runs a few times a week, just to build up to the initial 5 mile time trial. Having done the program last year with Get With It! (TM), I can tell you with no small amount of confidence that this year's program was hotter, muggier, more draining, more exhausting, and more rewarding than the regimen I endured the year before.
I am so thankful for my coaches, who offered encouragement and coolers full of refreshing beverages every single week. But I am even more grateful for Cat, Bethany, Jon, and of course, MK and KC, who fulfilled the role of faithful running buddies each and every week. Truly, having friends to pass the time and the miles makes it so much more rewarding. They keep you motivated, accountable and honest. I truly couldn't have done it without them.
I have loved this experience, and, who knows, would at least consider doing it again...maybe...but for now, I am really looking forward to having my Friday nights again!
Timmy
Who am I...
There are several numbers that define us. Our height, our weight, our social security number. Telephone, address, zip and area codes. But right now I am only focused on one number...
55204
That's my bib number of the 2010 ING New York City Marathon.
I'm in the Orange Group, Wave #3, Corral # 55. Which means I will be starting my run at 10:40 a.m. (Eastern) with a brisk 2 miles jaunt over the top of the Verrzano Narrows Bridge...with 15,000 of my closest friends. The orange path stays separated from the other groups until mile 4 or so. Eventually my fellow 15,000 strong orange runners will meet up with 30,000 runners of the blue and green persuasion and we'll run the last 22.2 miles all together.
I know that I am one of many in this race, but I am the only 55204, and somehow I feel like this marathon is being organized solely for my benefit.
Timmy
55204
That's my bib number of the 2010 ING New York City Marathon.
I'm in the Orange Group, Wave #3, Corral # 55. Which means I will be starting my run at 10:40 a.m. (Eastern) with a brisk 2 miles jaunt over the top of the Verrzano Narrows Bridge...with 15,000 of my closest friends. The orange path stays separated from the other groups until mile 4 or so. Eventually my fellow 15,000 strong orange runners will meet up with 30,000 runners of the blue and green persuasion and we'll run the last 22.2 miles all together.
I know that I am one of many in this race, but I am the only 55204, and somehow I feel like this marathon is being organized solely for my benefit.
Timmy
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Curb appeal
As I mentioned on here before, I enjoy running to a destination. The first time I ran anywhere with a purpose was to Blockbuster to return a movie that was probably several weeks overdue. Since then I have run to the grocery store, to a restaurant, to pick up my boss's newspaper while she was out of town, and, last night, to KC's house.
Running (as opposed to driving) makes you keenly aware of everything you've been missing. It also makes you realize how far apart everything is. It's similarto the transistion from passenger to driver...suddenly everything becomes much more important.
Last night I had agreed to meet KC for dinner post-run. She, too, had to put in a full hour run before we could feast so I told her I would meet her at her house, as per usual. The thought of running my "usual" route just wasn't exciting me, so I pushed a few buttons in my GPS and found that the Wee One's house was a mere 4.6 miles away. Sadly, that's just about what I run during an "easy" hour, so I was set.
All was going well, until I hit Mockingbird. No matter which direction I chose, there were no sidewalks on which to run. To be clear, neither Inwood or Mockingbird can be described as "pedestrian friendly".
The next five minutes of my run are best visualized as a game of real life frogger (sans the logs and sound effects). I wasn't so interested in crossing the street as I was in just making my way along it. Finally, after spending a while in the median waiting for a break in the traffic, I was able to sprint my way to safety on the far side of the street. Fortunately, I was not forced to repeat this 5 more times or move up a level.
Having not yet voted, I am changing my number 1 issue for this mid-term election from education to sidewalks. I am sure the candidates that went door to door are sympathetic to my plight.
Timmy
Running (as opposed to driving) makes you keenly aware of everything you've been missing. It also makes you realize how far apart everything is. It's similarto the transistion from passenger to driver...suddenly everything becomes much more important.
Last night I had agreed to meet KC for dinner post-run. She, too, had to put in a full hour run before we could feast so I told her I would meet her at her house, as per usual. The thought of running my "usual" route just wasn't exciting me, so I pushed a few buttons in my GPS and found that the Wee One's house was a mere 4.6 miles away. Sadly, that's just about what I run during an "easy" hour, so I was set.
All was going well, until I hit Mockingbird. No matter which direction I chose, there were no sidewalks on which to run. To be clear, neither Inwood or Mockingbird can be described as "pedestrian friendly".
The next five minutes of my run are best visualized as a game of real life frogger (sans the logs and sound effects). I wasn't so interested in crossing the street as I was in just making my way along it. Finally, after spending a while in the median waiting for a break in the traffic, I was able to sprint my way to safety on the far side of the street. Fortunately, I was not forced to repeat this 5 more times or move up a level.
Having not yet voted, I am changing my number 1 issue for this mid-term election from education to sidewalks. I am sure the candidates that went door to door are sympathetic to my plight.
Timmy
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
New Shoes
As you know, I have recently adopted a pair of new shoes. I took them for a test spin last night and I have to say...I am impressed. They are springy and comfortable. And white. Man are they ever white.
After one run in my new shoes, I realize that I might have clung to my old ones a bit too long. These new sneakers cradle my feet like clouds supported by gossamer tissue resting on a baby's bottom. The shoes still feel foreign and in some ways uncomfortable, because I haven't spent enough quality time in them to truly break them in, but I feel like these shoes and I are going to go far.
When I was getting ready for my run yesterday, I instinctively reached for my old pair. Sliding them on I felt the pleasant sensation of clinging moisture accumulated from Saturday's high humidity run. Which caused me to think..."I wish I had a new pair of shoes..." Which made me realize..."I have a new pair of shoes." Elation followed.
Whenever I buy the shoes, I am always amazed at the price. Don't misinterpret what I am saying, Luke's charges a fair price for a good product, but having grown up with shoes from Payless in the 80's, I am always taken aback at having to pay $130 for shoes. These aren't just any shoes though...apparently I have a tendancy to "roll" when I run. I beg to differ, because "rolling" sounds much more pleasant than whatever it is that I am doing, but nonetheless, my shoes job is to put a stop to that nonsense.
So, with all that said, it is with great pleasure that I introduce you to my new running shoes...Shoes, this is my blogging audience...audience, Shoes. Damn, I really should have taken a picture.
Timmy
After one run in my new shoes, I realize that I might have clung to my old ones a bit too long. These new sneakers cradle my feet like clouds supported by gossamer tissue resting on a baby's bottom. The shoes still feel foreign and in some ways uncomfortable, because I haven't spent enough quality time in them to truly break them in, but I feel like these shoes and I are going to go far.
When I was getting ready for my run yesterday, I instinctively reached for my old pair. Sliding them on I felt the pleasant sensation of clinging moisture accumulated from Saturday's high humidity run. Which caused me to think..."I wish I had a new pair of shoes..." Which made me realize..."I have a new pair of shoes." Elation followed.
Whenever I buy the shoes, I am always amazed at the price. Don't misinterpret what I am saying, Luke's charges a fair price for a good product, but having grown up with shoes from Payless in the 80's, I am always taken aback at having to pay $130 for shoes. These aren't just any shoes though...apparently I have a tendancy to "roll" when I run. I beg to differ, because "rolling" sounds much more pleasant than whatever it is that I am doing, but nonetheless, my shoes job is to put a stop to that nonsense.
So, with all that said, it is with great pleasure that I introduce you to my new running shoes...Shoes, this is my blogging audience...audience, Shoes. Damn, I really should have taken a picture.
Timmy
Monday, October 25, 2010
Verklempt
Everyday I get a little more convinced of my ability to complete the marathon and everyday I gain a little more insight into how bad it is going to hurt. I try to remind myself that the physical pain will be temporary and will fade, but the emotional high of completing the marathon will be remembered forever.
I definitely teared up when I completed the half marathon, and at the time I thought that was the biggest physical accomplishment I would ever complete. This marathon will represents a much more significant (and in some ways insurmountable) feat for me, and for that reason I am more than a little nervous about my ability to hold it together.
Don't get me wrong, I am a crier and I am not ashamed. Crying poses no threat to my masculinity. I will cry. It's going to happen. The problem is when am I going to start crying. If you've never had the pleasure, next time you happen to be out jogging around, do something to make yourself cry...think about death, hit yourself, look at your 401K statement....then try to keep running. It ain't easy.
You can't really see, and I have always found sight to be a helpful addition to any run. You can't really breath, which, if anything, is more important than seeing. And you look like a tool. No one looks sexy when they are trying (a) not to cry, (b) to see, and (c) to breath. Your face turns a brilliant red color and assumes a contorted and pained expression. I can try to distract onlookers by somehow bringing attention to my well-toned and shapely calves, but that only lasts for a minute or two.
To add to the fun, I have recently discovered that I have exercised induced asthma, brought on by a build up of lactic acid in my system towards the end of a hard run. Apparently one of my triggers is getting emotional. I have been training myself and my lungs during my last few long runs to deal with this exciting new development. My training consists of blocking all emotions after mile 18 or so. Unfortunately, mile 18 also marks the point where my emotions run rampant and cannot possibly be controlled without constant effort.
Anything...ANYTHING...can set me off. It's not so much about the object as my body's apparent need to cry...for any reason. I have a couple new inhaler friends that are joining me on runs now, just in case, thankfully since a rather terrifying run a few weeks back (sorry MK...didn't mean to be so scary) I haven't had any issues.
But even outside the running environment, I have noticed a definite increase in my emotional connections with running. Yesterday I bought new shoes. My pair for the marathon. The pair that will take me across the finish line. When I got home I saw my old pair haphazardly thrown on the floor. Just laying where I tossed them when I came home from Saturday's 12-miler. My plan was to take the old shoes back to Luke's to have them recycled. That would be the responsible thing to do. But I just can't. It seems unfair that my new shoes will be with me when I finish this race, but my old shoes were with me all the way there. Why should my shoes have to miss out when they have been there for me on one of the greatest adventures of my life?
Of course I know that I can't carry everything that helped me along the way, that would be ridiculous. I have to pick one shirt, one pair of shorts, one pair of socks, one pair of shoes. My belt can only hold so many Gu's (and inhalers). Our coaches gave us a list so that we can make sure we have everything we need for the race. I'll be inspecting that list and checking and re-checking my bags to make sure I have everything I need.
But I'll be carrying a lot more than what is listed on that sheet to make it through 26.2 miles.
I have been so amazed by the support from my friends and family. The donations to my charity were truly humbling and the constant words of encouragement have gotten me out of bed and out the door more mornings than I care to admit. My training process has been a lesson in how truly blessed I am to have friends and family who believe in me ever when it seems impossible.
So, no, it's not the shoes that make me cry. It's the mornings spent with my best friend, believing I couldn't accomplish the task before me, but knowing somehow we would. It's the calls and emails and letters reminding me how much I am loved and supported as the days countdown to November 7, 2010. And it's the memories of a wee friend running next to me at the gym telling me that I really could run for one full minute, even though it seemed so impossible at the time. It's a journey a lot longer than 26.2 miles, and it's taken a lot more than one lousy pair of shoes.
So yes, I will probably get a little emotional. Unfortunately, my packing list does not include tissue, so if you are coming to the race, for pete's sake, bring some freakin' kleenex.
Timmy
Friday, October 22, 2010
Strong Finish
When MK and I were training with Get With It! (TM) last year, our coaches had a strange form of torture for us to endure each week as we finished our runs. About 300 feet from the finish line, a coach...or possibly more than one...would run up next to you and "run you in". This consisted of picking a random spot on the street (usually a bumber of a foreign car...like a white Honda or a maroon Nissan) and upon reaching that spot you would "sprint" to the finish.
A few weeks ago, during a easy 12-miler, MK and I decided to relive our past and ran from the fender of a dark blue Saab all the way through the barricade that marks the end of the line. KC, a cheering bystander, was disturbed by our gusto and confused by why, after running 12 miles, we were voluntarily putting ourselves through that much more agony.
I think the party line is that you want to finish strong on the days it doesn't matter so that come race day you can finish strong when it really counts.
I have been running for a year and a half now, and it has only been recently that I think I understand why people (myself included) really run. You never reach a point where it stops hurting. You never reach a point where it's easy. You just reach a point where it feels right, and that's the moment when you forget all the pain and push it just a little bit harder. Before you know it, you're running farther, faster and longer than you have ever run before. For me, that moment happens when I cross through the final barricade on the Luke's course.
I used to push myself to finish a 30 minute run, and now I push myself to run for 5 hours. But sprinting my way across the finish is just as sweet every time I have done it. There have been a lot of differencest pop up between 30 minutes and 5 hours, but one thing remains consistent, if you can finish strong, you'll come back again week after week, just to cross the finish line one more time.
Timmy
A few weeks ago, during a easy 12-miler, MK and I decided to relive our past and ran from the fender of a dark blue Saab all the way through the barricade that marks the end of the line. KC, a cheering bystander, was disturbed by our gusto and confused by why, after running 12 miles, we were voluntarily putting ourselves through that much more agony.
I think the party line is that you want to finish strong on the days it doesn't matter so that come race day you can finish strong when it really counts.
I have been running for a year and a half now, and it has only been recently that I think I understand why people (myself included) really run. You never reach a point where it stops hurting. You never reach a point where it's easy. You just reach a point where it feels right, and that's the moment when you forget all the pain and push it just a little bit harder. Before you know it, you're running farther, faster and longer than you have ever run before. For me, that moment happens when I cross through the final barricade on the Luke's course.
I used to push myself to finish a 30 minute run, and now I push myself to run for 5 hours. But sprinting my way across the finish is just as sweet every time I have done it. There have been a lot of differencest pop up between 30 minutes and 5 hours, but one thing remains consistent, if you can finish strong, you'll come back again week after week, just to cross the finish line one more time.
Timmy
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Proper Attire
One thing that I have noticed since I have started running with Luke's Locker is that I have become a snob. Correction. More of a snob. Let's, at least, be honest.
I feel a since of superiority over other less fortunate runners that aligned themselves with other less expensive runnings groups. To be clear, my running group didn't break the bank. It works out to about $5 a week, so we're not talking big money. Still, Luke's has a mystique all it's own. I am sure that all running group members feel the same way about their program...in fact, on a recent Saturday run, a rival running group had scrawled in chalk powder on the street where the entire Luke's program runs "Luke's Sucks!"...had that been at the end of the 20 mile run we were completing that day, I might have been more inclinded to agree.
MK and I have often discussed this sudden sense of superiority. We have been taught to run correctly, breathe correctly, how to face hills, how to face downhills, how to stretch, and generally how to be a better runner than you (well not YOU per se). Whether we properly implement these tools of the trade is an entirely different story. But the lesson that I have learned loud and clear, is what to wear when running.
I showed up on day 1 last year for a 10 minute jog...my first time jogging for more than a minute ever...wearing gym shorts and a t-shirt. By the end of that job, I had something akin to a paper maiche tshirt mold stuck to my torso. I am fairly certain that was the last time I have worn cotton while intentionally trying to make myself sweat. While there is something exhilarating about wearing a thoroughly soaked shirt around town for a bit after a good run, I am sure, my experience with Luke's has taught me that "real runners" wear fancy shirts that are sold with heavy marketing tags (honestly more like a brochure which has been attached to the shirt using those annoying plastic things) extolling the wicking virtues and aerodynamic design.
Don't get me wrong. I am willing to pay a fair price for a fair product. But, the first time I paid $40 dollars for a tshirt that was designed solely to be worn while I sweat, I had my reservations. Let me assure you, however, worth. ever. penny. Do you still sweat? Oh my yes. But somehow the shirt just makes it better. No one knows how...no one.
MK told me recently that before she started running she thought female runners wore capri sweat pants probably with a fun top sporting a college logo. I imagine that, alternatively, a charity walk/run tshirt could be subbed in for school pride, but definitely capri sweat pants were mandatory. For myself, I was under the impression that all men who were actual runners never wore shirts regardless of the weather and pranced around is something akin to a shorty garbage sack.
Thankfully, we've managed to land somewhere in the middle. As a favor to the public, I have pledged to keep my shirt on at all times, and MK and I both have a few faithful pairs of running shorts and wicking shirts that get recycled on a weekly basis. I look "sporty" but perhaps not "athletic". I am good with that.
Timmy
I feel a since of superiority over other less fortunate runners that aligned themselves with other less expensive runnings groups. To be clear, my running group didn't break the bank. It works out to about $5 a week, so we're not talking big money. Still, Luke's has a mystique all it's own. I am sure that all running group members feel the same way about their program...in fact, on a recent Saturday run, a rival running group had scrawled in chalk powder on the street where the entire Luke's program runs "Luke's Sucks!"...had that been at the end of the 20 mile run we were completing that day, I might have been more inclinded to agree.
MK and I have often discussed this sudden sense of superiority. We have been taught to run correctly, breathe correctly, how to face hills, how to face downhills, how to stretch, and generally how to be a better runner than you (well not YOU per se). Whether we properly implement these tools of the trade is an entirely different story. But the lesson that I have learned loud and clear, is what to wear when running.
I showed up on day 1 last year for a 10 minute jog...my first time jogging for more than a minute ever...wearing gym shorts and a t-shirt. By the end of that job, I had something akin to a paper maiche tshirt mold stuck to my torso. I am fairly certain that was the last time I have worn cotton while intentionally trying to make myself sweat. While there is something exhilarating about wearing a thoroughly soaked shirt around town for a bit after a good run, I am sure, my experience with Luke's has taught me that "real runners" wear fancy shirts that are sold with heavy marketing tags (honestly more like a brochure which has been attached to the shirt using those annoying plastic things) extolling the wicking virtues and aerodynamic design.
Don't get me wrong. I am willing to pay a fair price for a fair product. But, the first time I paid $40 dollars for a tshirt that was designed solely to be worn while I sweat, I had my reservations. Let me assure you, however, worth. ever. penny. Do you still sweat? Oh my yes. But somehow the shirt just makes it better. No one knows how...no one.
MK told me recently that before she started running she thought female runners wore capri sweat pants probably with a fun top sporting a college logo. I imagine that, alternatively, a charity walk/run tshirt could be subbed in for school pride, but definitely capri sweat pants were mandatory. For myself, I was under the impression that all men who were actual runners never wore shirts regardless of the weather and pranced around is something akin to a shorty garbage sack.
Thankfully, we've managed to land somewhere in the middle. As a favor to the public, I have pledged to keep my shirt on at all times, and MK and I both have a few faithful pairs of running shorts and wicking shirts that get recycled on a weekly basis. I look "sporty" but perhaps not "athletic". I am good with that.
Timmy
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
One is Silver and the Other Gold...
Since I have started running I have lived in three different apartments. The first apartment was on Maple Avenue, right next to the Katy Trail. Each and every day I climb up a dirt embankment about a block from my building and proceeded to jostle my way up and down the same path. After a while, you realize that, basically, you see the same people over and over again. I don't know any of their names. I wouldn't feel comfortable approaching them in public. They are not my friends.
The second apartment was Arts District adjacent. Offering a quick walk to work and a variety of running paths to choose from. Sure, sometimes I would jog down the hill to the base of the Katy Trail...it's comfortable, what can I say, but usually I would simply jog up and down McKinney Avenue. McKinney had its perks. It's well lit. There's a lot to see. Unfortunately the smells wafting from the bars and bushes adjacent to said bars were not always pleasant (seriously...Aura...get a hold of your customers). I felt very "Uptown". If I saw anyone, both of us made every effort to ignore one another. That's just the way we Uptowners do it. Even when I used to run around the Texas Repulic Bank Building (one loop is a quarter of a mile...just FYI), the security guards would politely look away each time I passed their window.
My third and current apartment has proven decidedly different when it comes to meeting people during my running adventures. There are some fun horn honks and cat calls as I gulump my way through my neighborhood. These typically happen at night. I feel this is the case for several reasons: (i) it's dark so the drivers/cat callers can't actually see me...and my girth, and (ii) it's the end of the day, so my fans have had more time to build up their courage/blood alcohol level.
My runs take me out of the security fence surrounding my quaint 1950's condo development, past the Section 8 housing that sits across the street, down to Cedar Springs, through Perry Heights, around Craddock Park, in front of Whole Foods Market, into Highland Park (by way of Lomo Alto), up to Versailles, over to Preston or Throckmorton, and back down to Cedar Springs. The Highland Parkers are very similar to the Uptowners, except more vocal about my need to share the sidewalk...seriously. Well, okay, just once and I think she was having a bad day...I hope she was...because I certainly did after our brief encounter.
This morning, however, I finally made contact. A real, random, running buddy.
As I was passing the free clinic on Cedar Springs, a spry forty year old African American man named Eric sprung off the wooden bench on which he had seated himself to join me for the rest of my run. We really connected. I think because we have so much in common.
Eric just celebrated his big b-day with his recently reunited brother. It was hard for the brothers to keep in contact for a few reasons. First, because Eric has until recently lived out of town. Second, because Eric has until recently been in prison.
Not to worry though, Eric has excellent social skills and would be a fine addition to any gathering. He inquired as to my occupation...to which I said "I work at a law firm" (people, do not ever tell a stranger you are an attorney...just trust me...I was tempted to tell him I work "in an office", I was risking it with "law firm"). Not wanting to be rude, I return the queary and was told "Oh, I cash my disability check. I've got the bipolar disorder."
He apparently is not one to dwell (an admirable quality in a new friend), since we quickly moved on to why I was running and where, exactly, I was running to. I told him I was running the NYC marathon in 3 weeks. He asked if he could come. I told him yes, but he would have to find his own ticket. We discussed the length of the marathon and the length of my morning training run (which was almost at an end at this point...lasting a little over 5 miles and taking right at an hour). To which he responded that I was "pretty fast for a guy who is so thick." At this point we had run about half a mile together. He needed to stop and stretch for a bit, which I declined, but wished him well in all his endeavors.
I looked for him on facebook, but nothing... Wishing you well, Eric from the free clinic. If you make it to New York, be sure and flag me down.
Timmy
The second apartment was Arts District adjacent. Offering a quick walk to work and a variety of running paths to choose from. Sure, sometimes I would jog down the hill to the base of the Katy Trail...it's comfortable, what can I say, but usually I would simply jog up and down McKinney Avenue. McKinney had its perks. It's well lit. There's a lot to see. Unfortunately the smells wafting from the bars and bushes adjacent to said bars were not always pleasant (seriously...Aura...get a hold of your customers). I felt very "Uptown". If I saw anyone, both of us made every effort to ignore one another. That's just the way we Uptowners do it. Even when I used to run around the Texas Repulic Bank Building (one loop is a quarter of a mile...just FYI), the security guards would politely look away each time I passed their window.
My third and current apartment has proven decidedly different when it comes to meeting people during my running adventures. There are some fun horn honks and cat calls as I gulump my way through my neighborhood. These typically happen at night. I feel this is the case for several reasons: (i) it's dark so the drivers/cat callers can't actually see me...and my girth, and (ii) it's the end of the day, so my fans have had more time to build up their courage/blood alcohol level.
My runs take me out of the security fence surrounding my quaint 1950's condo development, past the Section 8 housing that sits across the street, down to Cedar Springs, through Perry Heights, around Craddock Park, in front of Whole Foods Market, into Highland Park (by way of Lomo Alto), up to Versailles, over to Preston or Throckmorton, and back down to Cedar Springs. The Highland Parkers are very similar to the Uptowners, except more vocal about my need to share the sidewalk...seriously. Well, okay, just once and I think she was having a bad day...I hope she was...because I certainly did after our brief encounter.
This morning, however, I finally made contact. A real, random, running buddy.
As I was passing the free clinic on Cedar Springs, a spry forty year old African American man named Eric sprung off the wooden bench on which he had seated himself to join me for the rest of my run. We really connected. I think because we have so much in common.
Eric just celebrated his big b-day with his recently reunited brother. It was hard for the brothers to keep in contact for a few reasons. First, because Eric has until recently lived out of town. Second, because Eric has until recently been in prison.
Not to worry though, Eric has excellent social skills and would be a fine addition to any gathering. He inquired as to my occupation...to which I said "I work at a law firm" (people, do not ever tell a stranger you are an attorney...just trust me...I was tempted to tell him I work "in an office", I was risking it with "law firm"). Not wanting to be rude, I return the queary and was told "Oh, I cash my disability check. I've got the bipolar disorder."
He apparently is not one to dwell (an admirable quality in a new friend), since we quickly moved on to why I was running and where, exactly, I was running to. I told him I was running the NYC marathon in 3 weeks. He asked if he could come. I told him yes, but he would have to find his own ticket. We discussed the length of the marathon and the length of my morning training run (which was almost at an end at this point...lasting a little over 5 miles and taking right at an hour). To which he responded that I was "pretty fast for a guy who is so thick." At this point we had run about half a mile together. He needed to stop and stretch for a bit, which I declined, but wished him well in all his endeavors.
I looked for him on facebook, but nothing... Wishing you well, Eric from the free clinic. If you make it to New York, be sure and flag me down.
Timmy
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
What is there to say...
Something strange happens when I am running. At some point, I lose all sense of propriety. Correction, I know exactly that what I am saying is not a polite topic of conversation, but I proceed to say it nonetheless...and with abandon.
Over the past several weeks, I have forced MK to talk about basically every topic of conversation that can be covered by two best friends. We've discussed the movies (The Social Network...pretty solid, but kind of depressing...I enjoyed it), our romantic escapades (I use the word "escapades" to convey a sense of excitement and intrigue...this part of our conversation is usually quite short), various financial topics (including, but not limited to, who's turn it is to fork over the $3.50 for our group queso during our post run breakfast at the Taco Joint), and general complaints (ranging from "I smell awful" to "You smell awful", etc.).
But the topic that I frequent the most is one revolving around my gastrointestinal tract.
Ah, the GI Tract...one of God's great jokes. I mean, picture it. It just looks weird. No one knows how it works (doctors, please lower your hands)...but we all know when it is not. And the times when it is not working somehow manage to coincide almost precisely with when we, as humans, are running.
Any runner has heard of the trots...we live in fear of the grumbling that belies a painful jolt to a disgusting rest stop...you read about it in running magazines and online running websites, where they refer to it with quotation marks or print it in italics. This might lead you to believe that tummy troubles are a topic of conversation that cannot be broached between runners in public. Don't be fooled. Nothing is taboo in the brother/sisterhood of running companions...most particularly the trots.
I remember running past the arboretum with my coach during last year's program while he relayed to me a story involving a Friday night t-bone steak, a bottle of wine and a 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning clinched jog to the 7-11. I believe the words "exploded" and "tragic" were used several times. I still cannot look at that convenience store in the same way.
I have told people I hardly know (and been told by people I do not know) exactly what I/they ate for dinner the night before and the merits of that cuisine in regards to its digestion related effects. We've discussed the pros and cons of breakfast pre-run...what that breakfast should consist of and when it should be consumed. We've talked about recommendations from various nutritionists, websites, running magazines and grandmothers. But we don't just talk about it...we live it.
For those of you who know me well, you know that I enjoy a hardy blech now and again. I am not ashamed of this. In fact I rather enjoy it. But I am afraid that I have literally woken slumbering households on the streets of Lakewood due to burps that can only be described as "thunderous". Additionally, I could fill a small pond with the amount of saliva I produce during a weekly long run. I hate spitting. I hate it when people spit, and I hate spitting myself.
So why this sudden freedom to discuss the comings and goings of the bowels and their supporting glandular pals? Frankly, I'm not sure. Much like being slightly inebriated, running gives you carte blanche to proudly discuss almost any topic. Sure, it's not for everyone. To be clear, MK is more of a passive observer rather than an active participant. But when else do you get to discuss the strong points of various port-a-potties and the exact location of bushes that might work in a pinch.
I try to remind myself that if people slowly move away from me during my run, it might be because they don't subscribe to my free spirited no-holds-barred conversations (in which case, good ridance), or it might be because they are suffering through their own "moving" experience and just want you to be upwind (in which case, God bless).
Timmy
Over the past several weeks, I have forced MK to talk about basically every topic of conversation that can be covered by two best friends. We've discussed the movies (The Social Network...pretty solid, but kind of depressing...I enjoyed it), our romantic escapades (I use the word "escapades" to convey a sense of excitement and intrigue...this part of our conversation is usually quite short), various financial topics (including, but not limited to, who's turn it is to fork over the $3.50 for our group queso during our post run breakfast at the Taco Joint), and general complaints (ranging from "I smell awful" to "You smell awful", etc.).
But the topic that I frequent the most is one revolving around my gastrointestinal tract.
Ah, the GI Tract...one of God's great jokes. I mean, picture it. It just looks weird. No one knows how it works (doctors, please lower your hands)...but we all know when it is not. And the times when it is not working somehow manage to coincide almost precisely with when we, as humans, are running.
Any runner has heard of the trots...we live in fear of the grumbling that belies a painful jolt to a disgusting rest stop...you read about it in running magazines and online running websites, where they refer to it with quotation marks or print it in italics. This might lead you to believe that tummy troubles are a topic of conversation that cannot be broached between runners in public. Don't be fooled. Nothing is taboo in the brother/sisterhood of running companions...most particularly the trots.
I remember running past the arboretum with my coach during last year's program while he relayed to me a story involving a Friday night t-bone steak, a bottle of wine and a 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning clinched jog to the 7-11. I believe the words "exploded" and "tragic" were used several times. I still cannot look at that convenience store in the same way.
I have told people I hardly know (and been told by people I do not know) exactly what I/they ate for dinner the night before and the merits of that cuisine in regards to its digestion related effects. We've discussed the pros and cons of breakfast pre-run...what that breakfast should consist of and when it should be consumed. We've talked about recommendations from various nutritionists, websites, running magazines and grandmothers. But we don't just talk about it...we live it.
For those of you who know me well, you know that I enjoy a hardy blech now and again. I am not ashamed of this. In fact I rather enjoy it. But I am afraid that I have literally woken slumbering households on the streets of Lakewood due to burps that can only be described as "thunderous". Additionally, I could fill a small pond with the amount of saliva I produce during a weekly long run. I hate spitting. I hate it when people spit, and I hate spitting myself.
So why this sudden freedom to discuss the comings and goings of the bowels and their supporting glandular pals? Frankly, I'm not sure. Much like being slightly inebriated, running gives you carte blanche to proudly discuss almost any topic. Sure, it's not for everyone. To be clear, MK is more of a passive observer rather than an active participant. But when else do you get to discuss the strong points of various port-a-potties and the exact location of bushes that might work in a pinch.
I try to remind myself that if people slowly move away from me during my run, it might be because they don't subscribe to my free spirited no-holds-barred conversations (in which case, good ridance), or it might be because they are suffering through their own "moving" experience and just want you to be upwind (in which case, God bless).
Timmy
Monday, October 18, 2010
She of Little Faith
As you are all painfully aware, my blogging entries have been sparse as of late. There are a number of reasons for the lack of blogging, none of which are exciting or interesting in the least...except for the bit about having my hands chopped off in a third world prison after being accused of stealing a pastry...which did not happen, but that is the type of exciting/interesting thing I am talking about.
My lack of blogging has nothing to do with a lack of running excitement over the past few weeks. There have been trials, and yes, tribulations. And there have been miles...many, many miles. What there has not been is a lot of free time, which translates in to not a lot of blog entries.
This past Thursday a big project I have been working on finally closed. With that closing came a narrow window of freedom which I promptly started to crack open. My new (re)found flexibiilty caused me to realize what a sorry job I have been doing on this "web log", as it were. To be clear, I have taken more than a little heat from KC and MK about my lack of dedication to this site (for those of you who have missed it, KC's blog is what my blog wants to be when it grows up...and can be found here...www.kristijustpassedyou.blogspot.com).
My moment of clarity, combined with several weeks of disparaging remarks, somehow culminated in a post-22 mile run, Saturday morning declaration wherein I committed to updating this page with "meaningful content" and not just "I ran ___ miles"-posts (as KC puts it) at least 5 times a week from now until the marathon.
The reaction that followed my proclamation was a mixed bag of hilarity and dumbfoundedness. As a point of comparison, when I declared my decision to run a marathon, the responses ranged from "That is wonderful, you can do it!" to the more common "Wait a moment while I repress the tears that your inspirational act as caused me to shed...Tim, you are my hero." Saturday's reaction was more akin to "Whoa there Tim, let's not aim too high" or "Ha, mwah ha, hold...ha!...on...hee, hee, hee, can't catch breath...that's absurd." I was taken aback.
How was it possible that my closest friends could have so little faith in my commitment to blogging? As I pointed out to MK, I type all day everyday, all I have to do is redirect that typing energy. Running a marathon actually requires me to partake in an activity in which I was not at all inclined to partake willingly or for any extended period of time. Yet, to my friends, a completed marathon seems infinitely more likely to occur than a 5-substantive-blog-entry week.
I have spent a lot of time, and made a lot of jokes, about their lack of faith in my blogging stick-to-it-ive-ness. Feigned hurt feelings at their (totally justified) scepticism. And spent some serious time planning some standby topics, just in case I hit a writers/runners wall. But in the end, I am still a little confused as to why my commitment to this running diary engenders so little trust as compared to my running endeavors themselves, which seems far more absurd a goal if you have known me for any period of time. And I think I know why.
Blogging is a singular, isolated activity. Unless you leave a comment (Ginny) I have no way of knowing that you have even seen these words. There are no spectators on the sidelines, no sign waving in the crowd. I have followers (shout out!), but none of them are showing up in my office to tell me "you can do it...blog the hell out of that entry!"
Running is also a singular, isolated activity...for many people. But not for me. When I think about my marathon training, I don't think about the hours on end I have spent running alone in the dark. I think about meeting my best friend at our designated port-a-potty at 5:15 on Saturday morning, every Saturday morning, and getting to spend the next several hours catching up on the meaningless and the meaningful. I don't think about my early mornings stumbling over my shoes as I prepare for the drudgery. I think about the mornings when I've been stumbling my way slowly up the Sperry loop, ready to give up, and a tiny hand belonging to an impossibly cute blond has caught me on the small of my back and told me I could do it. One pat on the back from someone you adore...that's all it takes to make it to the end.
Of course I can run a marathon. With friends like mine, how could I not run a marathon.
Oh, and girls, one down.
Timmy
My lack of blogging has nothing to do with a lack of running excitement over the past few weeks. There have been trials, and yes, tribulations. And there have been miles...many, many miles. What there has not been is a lot of free time, which translates in to not a lot of blog entries.
This past Thursday a big project I have been working on finally closed. With that closing came a narrow window of freedom which I promptly started to crack open. My new (re)found flexibiilty caused me to realize what a sorry job I have been doing on this "web log", as it were. To be clear, I have taken more than a little heat from KC and MK about my lack of dedication to this site (for those of you who have missed it, KC's blog is what my blog wants to be when it grows up...and can be found here...www.kristijustpassedyou.blogspot.com).
My moment of clarity, combined with several weeks of disparaging remarks, somehow culminated in a post-22 mile run, Saturday morning declaration wherein I committed to updating this page with "meaningful content" and not just "I ran ___ miles"-posts (as KC puts it) at least 5 times a week from now until the marathon.
The reaction that followed my proclamation was a mixed bag of hilarity and dumbfoundedness. As a point of comparison, when I declared my decision to run a marathon, the responses ranged from "That is wonderful, you can do it!" to the more common "Wait a moment while I repress the tears that your inspirational act as caused me to shed...Tim, you are my hero." Saturday's reaction was more akin to "Whoa there Tim, let's not aim too high" or "Ha, mwah ha, hold...ha!...on...hee, hee, hee, can't catch breath...that's absurd." I was taken aback.
How was it possible that my closest friends could have so little faith in my commitment to blogging? As I pointed out to MK, I type all day everyday, all I have to do is redirect that typing energy. Running a marathon actually requires me to partake in an activity in which I was not at all inclined to partake willingly or for any extended period of time. Yet, to my friends, a completed marathon seems infinitely more likely to occur than a 5-substantive-blog-entry week.
I have spent a lot of time, and made a lot of jokes, about their lack of faith in my blogging stick-to-it-ive-ness. Feigned hurt feelings at their (totally justified) scepticism. And spent some serious time planning some standby topics, just in case I hit a writers/runners wall. But in the end, I am still a little confused as to why my commitment to this running diary engenders so little trust as compared to my running endeavors themselves, which seems far more absurd a goal if you have known me for any period of time. And I think I know why.
Blogging is a singular, isolated activity. Unless you leave a comment (Ginny) I have no way of knowing that you have even seen these words. There are no spectators on the sidelines, no sign waving in the crowd. I have followers (shout out!), but none of them are showing up in my office to tell me "you can do it...blog the hell out of that entry!"
Running is also a singular, isolated activity...for many people. But not for me. When I think about my marathon training, I don't think about the hours on end I have spent running alone in the dark. I think about meeting my best friend at our designated port-a-potty at 5:15 on Saturday morning, every Saturday morning, and getting to spend the next several hours catching up on the meaningless and the meaningful. I don't think about my early mornings stumbling over my shoes as I prepare for the drudgery. I think about the mornings when I've been stumbling my way slowly up the Sperry loop, ready to give up, and a tiny hand belonging to an impossibly cute blond has caught me on the small of my back and told me I could do it. One pat on the back from someone you adore...that's all it takes to make it to the end.
Of course I can run a marathon. With friends like mine, how could I not run a marathon.
Oh, and girls, one down.
Timmy
Friday, October 15, 2010
A Time for Running
For everything there is a season...I think either Hallmark or God said that. Regardless, it's true. For the past several weeks work and running have been in season. Blogging, not so much. But that era has come to an end. I am 23 days from my (first?) marathon and I am really excited. Unfortunately, that excitement has had to take a back seat to some serious working since early September. It's sad when I look forward to leaving work a little early just so I can get in a good run before immediately going to bed...sad and satisfying.
Let me take a moment to get everyone up to date.
1. My hip is feeling awesome. For those of you not in the know, I have torn the labral cartilege in my hip and will need to have surgery to repair the damage in December (after the marathon). In the meantime, I am getting steroid injections directly into my hip joint in an effort to build up muscles and get me through. I have my second and final injection on Monday and I am really hopeful that I will stay pain free (at least in the left hip area) through the marathon.
2. 20 miles has got nothing on me. Two weeks ago I ran 20 miles. It was a great run. I felt amazing. The weather was perfect. It wasn't easy, but in many was it was exactly like running 2 miles...10 times in a row without stopping.
3. I have really incredible friends and family. As you all know, I am committed to raising $3,000 for charity in order to run this race. As of this moment I am within $500. A part of me wants to just pull out the credit card and be done with it, but I am so amazed by people's generosity and support that I am selfishly holding back.
Okay, next time I sit down to write I am going to have my Garmin in my hand so that I can really update my total mileage, etc. I have NOT been consistent with that...so all those of you think I have only been running one or two times a week...false!
Timmy
Let me take a moment to get everyone up to date.
1. My hip is feeling awesome. For those of you not in the know, I have torn the labral cartilege in my hip and will need to have surgery to repair the damage in December (after the marathon). In the meantime, I am getting steroid injections directly into my hip joint in an effort to build up muscles and get me through. I have my second and final injection on Monday and I am really hopeful that I will stay pain free (at least in the left hip area) through the marathon.
2. 20 miles has got nothing on me. Two weeks ago I ran 20 miles. It was a great run. I felt amazing. The weather was perfect. It wasn't easy, but in many was it was exactly like running 2 miles...10 times in a row without stopping.
3. I have really incredible friends and family. As you all know, I am committed to raising $3,000 for charity in order to run this race. As of this moment I am within $500. A part of me wants to just pull out the credit card and be done with it, but I am so amazed by people's generosity and support that I am selfishly holding back.
Okay, next time I sit down to write I am going to have my Garmin in my hand so that I can really update my total mileage, etc. I have NOT been consistent with that...so all those of you think I have only been running one or two times a week...false!
Timmy
Friday, October 8, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Monday, September 20, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Post-Run: The Motion Picture
This video pretty much sums up how I feel about my run today...(thanks to Neill for the link)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Mt73rTvzhE
Timmy
Days left - I'm too tired to figure this out
Total Distance Run - I'm too scared to do the math.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Mt73rTvzhE
Timmy
Days left - I'm too tired to figure this out
Total Distance Run - I'm too scared to do the math.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Progress
Last time I posted I was fairly certain I could not run 18 miles...under any circumstances. The next morning I woke up to 63 degree temperatures and 0% humidity. It was a miraculous day. The miles ticked by one after another and before my legs totally gave out, I had somehow run 18 miles. It was a spectacular feeling. It wasn't until that day that I absolutely believed I could run and finish the marathon.
This past Saturday was supposed to be an "easy" 12 miles. Perhaps it was my attitude that needed adjusting, or perhaps the reason for the change in weather actually had no relation to my running training whatsoever (unlikely), but when I woke up it was 84 degrees and 70% humidity. 4 miles into the run MK and I both felt sick and decided to just finish however we needed to...which might have included some walking. It was a little discouraging. I never truly realized was a difference the weather makes.
In light of my recent setback, I have been thinking a lot about the progress I have made over the last 4 months. While I am not appreciably faster than I was when I ran my half marathon, I am certainly able to keep going for miles farther than when I took a break from running last January. Perhaps the thing I am most excited about is the sudden ability to run and talk without sounding like an old accordian. I used to talk between gasping for life-giving air. Now, it's more of a fluid conversation. Also, when I stop for a break during the runs (to get water, etc.) I don't sound like I have been fleeing from a crime scene. Yes, my breathing is still a little heavy, but really, I think I could pass for having just finished some lawn work.
So, I won't be keeping up with the Kenyans in November, but, if one of them is a recent amputee or has a 50 pound weight strapped to his ankle and winds up running next to me, at least I will be able to have a conversation with them during the run.
Timmy
Day Left - 55
Total Distance Run - 230.36 miles
This past Saturday was supposed to be an "easy" 12 miles. Perhaps it was my attitude that needed adjusting, or perhaps the reason for the change in weather actually had no relation to my running training whatsoever (unlikely), but when I woke up it was 84 degrees and 70% humidity. 4 miles into the run MK and I both felt sick and decided to just finish however we needed to...which might have included some walking. It was a little discouraging. I never truly realized was a difference the weather makes.
In light of my recent setback, I have been thinking a lot about the progress I have made over the last 4 months. While I am not appreciably faster than I was when I ran my half marathon, I am certainly able to keep going for miles farther than when I took a break from running last January. Perhaps the thing I am most excited about is the sudden ability to run and talk without sounding like an old accordian. I used to talk between gasping for life-giving air. Now, it's more of a fluid conversation. Also, when I stop for a break during the runs (to get water, etc.) I don't sound like I have been fleeing from a crime scene. Yes, my breathing is still a little heavy, but really, I think I could pass for having just finished some lawn work.
So, I won't be keeping up with the Kenyans in November, but, if one of them is a recent amputee or has a 50 pound weight strapped to his ankle and winds up running next to me, at least I will be able to have a conversation with them during the run.
Timmy
Day Left - 55
Total Distance Run - 230.36 miles
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Inconceivable
I am supposed to run 18 miles on Saturday. That seems about 100 miles farther than I have ever run before.
I am nervous!
Timmy
Days Left - 66
Total Distance Run - 190.86 miles
I am nervous!
Timmy
Days Left - 66
Total Distance Run - 190.86 miles
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
The Home Stretch
We are lead to believe that all miles are the same distance. Somewhere north of 5,000 feet south of 6,000. Your car, a map, google earth, other reliable sources of distance related information. They lie. All of them.
Distance is always an important topic for runners. For myself, I am primarily interested in distance for 2 reasons. First, because I need to know how far to tell the guys at the Taco Joint that I ran that day as they hand me my free beverage. Second, because I need to know what to say at the various points in conversation over the next week whenI subtly/blatantly slip it into the conversation.
Oddly enough, however, distance is apparently a tad bit of a grey area when it comes to actually hitting the pavement. For example, Luke's Locker tells me that I am supposed to run "12 miles" on Saturday...but at the end of the "12 mile" runs, I have, in fact, run 12.6 miles. POINT SIX! If you dare to broach this topic with a member of the Luke's training team, they will simply stare at you and reply that the course is measured in "Luke's Miles." As previously mentioned on this blog, I believe measuring distance in Luke's Miles must be akin to measuring temperature in Kelvin. I have been told once that on the day of our actual marathon, the mileage we run will be greater than 26.2 and we should get used to pushing just a little further. (Side Note: To be clear...that's "a little further" than 26.2 miles.)
One lesson I have also learned is to try and run relatively straight, because weaving back and forth can add up to 10% additional distance. Fair point, duly noted, please tell all roadblocks to kindly step aside.
Perhaps the most amazing distance phenomenon, however, is the last mile of the run. Somehow, when you are not looking, little running elves stretch out the course so that it is twice, possibly even nineteen times as long. This applies whether you are running 4 miles, 9 miles, double digits or numbers that rhyme with mate-teen. It's a fact. Verifiable not by science, but by any runner who has ever run ever.
For those lucky souls training at White Rock Lake (and running the lake in a clockwise direction), this means that the stretch from the footbridge (shown in the picture above) to the bath house is somehow 2 to 19 miles long. Sure...your tape measures, odometers, pedometers, and other -ometers will tell you it's a mile. They lie.
I guess that is why it is all the better when you cross through the gate at the top of the hill. Your Garmin watch is evidence to the world that you ran their so called mileage...but everybody waiting on the other side of that gate knows exactly how far you really ran.
Timmy
Days Left - 69
Total Distance Run - 181.16 miles
Distance is always an important topic for runners. For myself, I am primarily interested in distance for 2 reasons. First, because I need to know how far to tell the guys at the Taco Joint that I ran that day as they hand me my free beverage. Second, because I need to know what to say at the various points in conversation over the next week whenI subtly/blatantly slip it into the conversation.
Oddly enough, however, distance is apparently a tad bit of a grey area when it comes to actually hitting the pavement. For example, Luke's Locker tells me that I am supposed to run "12 miles" on Saturday...but at the end of the "12 mile" runs, I have, in fact, run 12.6 miles. POINT SIX! If you dare to broach this topic with a member of the Luke's training team, they will simply stare at you and reply that the course is measured in "Luke's Miles." As previously mentioned on this blog, I believe measuring distance in Luke's Miles must be akin to measuring temperature in Kelvin. I have been told once that on the day of our actual marathon, the mileage we run will be greater than 26.2 and we should get used to pushing just a little further. (Side Note: To be clear...that's "a little further" than 26.2 miles.)
One lesson I have also learned is to try and run relatively straight, because weaving back and forth can add up to 10% additional distance. Fair point, duly noted, please tell all roadblocks to kindly step aside.
Perhaps the most amazing distance phenomenon, however, is the last mile of the run. Somehow, when you are not looking, little running elves stretch out the course so that it is twice, possibly even nineteen times as long. This applies whether you are running 4 miles, 9 miles, double digits or numbers that rhyme with mate-teen. It's a fact. Verifiable not by science, but by any runner who has ever run ever.
For those lucky souls training at White Rock Lake (and running the lake in a clockwise direction), this means that the stretch from the footbridge (shown in the picture above) to the bath house is somehow 2 to 19 miles long. Sure...your tape measures, odometers, pedometers, and other -ometers will tell you it's a mile. They lie.
I guess that is why it is all the better when you cross through the gate at the top of the hill. Your Garmin watch is evidence to the world that you ran their so called mileage...but everybody waiting on the other side of that gate knows exactly how far you really ran.
Timmy
Days Left - 69
Total Distance Run - 181.16 miles
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Running in the Rain
Today was a big day for Dallas and for me. Today was the day that cooler heads prevailed, literally. After many broken promises, a cold front fought its way through and managed to bring a little rain with it...
I opened my door this morning at 6:15 and it was pouring down rain. I was thrilled. I have only run in the rain a handfull of times, but every time I do I become quite convinced that I am the most dedicated runner in the city of Dallas and perhaps the state. Today was no exception.
My goal for the day was to run the Sperry loop, which is an approximately 4.5 mile "loop" (of pain) that Luke's makes us run every Saturday. Last Saturday was my first experience with the aforementioned loop and it bested me. The first half of the loop is essentially a slow uphill climb...not sure it ever goes back downhill...the lake must somehow tilt upwards, because I don't remember ever having the pleasure of going downhill. This morning, however, me and the rain kicked the Sperry loop's...um...cul de sac?
It was only sprinkling when I started, but about halfway through the skies decided to commit and I frankly don't remember ever being that wet when I was not submerged in something. It was fantastic. While I am quite sure no one actually noticed me, I imagined the comments from the drivers as they passed me...something appropriate like "Oh! Look at that attractive and fit young man. He is a bastion of dedication to be respected and envied. I should stop and ask his name so that I will know what the name my children and my children's children."
Needless to say, I made it back to my car in just over an hour, having conquered the Sperry loop and totally and absolutely soaked to the core. Best. Run. Ever.
Timmy
Day Left - 74
Total Distance Run - 168.57 miles
I opened my door this morning at 6:15 and it was pouring down rain. I was thrilled. I have only run in the rain a handfull of times, but every time I do I become quite convinced that I am the most dedicated runner in the city of Dallas and perhaps the state. Today was no exception.
My goal for the day was to run the Sperry loop, which is an approximately 4.5 mile "loop" (of pain) that Luke's makes us run every Saturday. Last Saturday was my first experience with the aforementioned loop and it bested me. The first half of the loop is essentially a slow uphill climb...not sure it ever goes back downhill...the lake must somehow tilt upwards, because I don't remember ever having the pleasure of going downhill. This morning, however, me and the rain kicked the Sperry loop's...um...cul de sac?
It was only sprinkling when I started, but about halfway through the skies decided to commit and I frankly don't remember ever being that wet when I was not submerged in something. It was fantastic. While I am quite sure no one actually noticed me, I imagined the comments from the drivers as they passed me...something appropriate like "Oh! Look at that attractive and fit young man. He is a bastion of dedication to be respected and envied. I should stop and ask his name so that I will know what the name my children and my children's children."
Needless to say, I made it back to my car in just over an hour, having conquered the Sperry loop and totally and absolutely soaked to the core. Best. Run. Ever.
Timmy
Day Left - 74
Total Distance Run - 168.57 miles
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Lessons (Part 1)
I have learned a number of things about preparing for and actually running a long run, and I thought I would share them...you can thank me later, should you ever take up running, and your welcome (in case we aren't speaking to each other when you later take up running...no excuse for being impolite).
1. Sweat and Paper = Oil and Water - Much like milk and graham crackers, the combination seems harmless but the results look disgusting. While running our Saturday long runs we have to carry directions with us to make sure we stay on course. The other option is to memorize the directions, but after about the 10th "turn left/right on _____" you just can't keep it all together. There are a number of methods for keeping the directions dry: (1 ) lamination - an excellent option of the scrapbook set, but totally inconvenient for normal people, (2) baggie - poor man's lamination...fancy people use a snack size bag, and (3) bond paper - much like a brawny paper towel, it's thicker so it takes longer for the absorption to totally ruin the paper. To be fair, I am speaking a little bit out of turn, since I have never actually had to carry directions. But I have seen the results. Not pretty.
2. Friction Non-Fiction - Basically, if it moves, it is capable of bleeding. Name an exterior part of the body. Yes, that chafes. How do you fix it...well, you smear it with something or cover it with something. Problem is, sometimes the covering just irritates something else. Let's say that you are developing a patch on you right arm where your arm hits your shirt while you run...let's say you then put a bandaid on that arm...arm is fixed, but your side is in for a brand new round of fun. My only fix to the slather myself in body glide (which is the second cousin to petroleum jelly, but in stick form). You feel weird doing it, but your nipples will thank you later.
Timmy
Days Left - 78
Total Distance Run - 145.12
1. Sweat and Paper = Oil and Water - Much like milk and graham crackers, the combination seems harmless but the results look disgusting. While running our Saturday long runs we have to carry directions with us to make sure we stay on course. The other option is to memorize the directions, but after about the 10th "turn left/right on _____" you just can't keep it all together. There are a number of methods for keeping the directions dry: (1 ) lamination - an excellent option of the scrapbook set, but totally inconvenient for normal people, (2) baggie - poor man's lamination...fancy people use a snack size bag, and (3) bond paper - much like a brawny paper towel, it's thicker so it takes longer for the absorption to totally ruin the paper. To be fair, I am speaking a little bit out of turn, since I have never actually had to carry directions. But I have seen the results. Not pretty.
2. Friction Non-Fiction - Basically, if it moves, it is capable of bleeding. Name an exterior part of the body. Yes, that chafes. How do you fix it...well, you smear it with something or cover it with something. Problem is, sometimes the covering just irritates something else. Let's say that you are developing a patch on you right arm where your arm hits your shirt while you run...let's say you then put a bandaid on that arm...arm is fixed, but your side is in for a brand new round of fun. My only fix to the slather myself in body glide (which is the second cousin to petroleum jelly, but in stick form). You feel weird doing it, but your nipples will thank you later.
Timmy
Days Left - 78
Total Distance Run - 145.12
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Marathon Training or "How I Learned to Love the Pain"
As you are all aware, the last couple of weeks have been filled with a lot of medical drama and not a lot of running. I was hopeful that last week's steroid shot would be a miracle fix that eliminated all the pain I was feeling and would also made my ass look awesome. Unfortunately, neither is quite true. Since my long run on Saturday (9.5 miles, give it up...after 2 weeks off), my hip has been providing a constant reminder that, while it could be much worse, all is not quite right in the world. Also, my ass is still only its usual self...amazing personality, great with kids and parents, but not going to stop traffic (except in the way a solar eclipse might stop traffic...but I digress).
Oddly enough, though, I am okay with it.
There were a few days when I really thought the marathon was over for me. I was upset, to say the least. In my head, I knew that running the marathon was not worth risking permanent damage to my hip...but that only gets me so far. Being told I could't do it, just made me want to do it more.
It's not easy to get up in the morning and face the heat. It's not easy to keep going a couple hours into a multi-hour run. So it helps to have a constant reminder that it's all a blessing and an opportunity.
This Saturday my group is running 16 miles. In light of my time off, I am going to take it pretty easy and shoot for 13 to 14 miles, but I plan to walk the rest of 16 miles. I probably won't be so grateful for the opportunity approximately 8 miles in.
Timmy
Day Left - 81
Total Distance Run - 139.38 miles
Oddly enough, though, I am okay with it.
There were a few days when I really thought the marathon was over for me. I was upset, to say the least. In my head, I knew that running the marathon was not worth risking permanent damage to my hip...but that only gets me so far. Being told I could't do it, just made me want to do it more.
It's not easy to get up in the morning and face the heat. It's not easy to keep going a couple hours into a multi-hour run. So it helps to have a constant reminder that it's all a blessing and an opportunity.
This Saturday my group is running 16 miles. In light of my time off, I am going to take it pretty easy and shoot for 13 to 14 miles, but I plan to walk the rest of 16 miles. I probably won't be so grateful for the opportunity approximately 8 miles in.
Timmy
Day Left - 81
Total Distance Run - 139.38 miles
Thursday, August 12, 2010
THANK YOU!
Also, I wanted to send a big thank you to everyone who has donated to my run. As of today, I am officially halfway to my fundraising goal. In light of my reentry to the running world, I think today is a very fitting day to have reached this point.
For those of you who have not yet given, now's your chance! All the cool kids are doing it! Just click below....and thanks in advance!
http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/Freds_Team?px=1760239&pg=personal&fr_id=1310
For those of you who have not yet given, now's your chance! All the cool kids are doing it! Just click below....and thanks in advance!
http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/Freds_Team?px=1760239&pg=personal&fr_id=1310
Back in the Game
Wanted to post a quick update to say that I have been cleared to run again starting today.
My doctor and I took a quick look at some fascinating xray and MRI images and determined (well really he determined, but I feel good about it) that I have a extra bump on the side of my left hip bone that has slowly rubbed its way through the labral cartilage in my hip joint. The bump is called an impingement (or FAI...which stands for something...). It results from the fusion of growth plates and has nothing to do with my weight or misuse of my body (so suck it Dr. Curtis...who told me, and I quote, "You know Tim, most people lose the weight first and then run a marathon.")
The easy, but temporary, fix was to get a steroid shot directly in the joint, which I did on Tuesday.
Now comes the fun part...catching up on 2 weeks of missed training. Wish me luck.
Timmy
My doctor and I took a quick look at some fascinating xray and MRI images and determined (well really he determined, but I feel good about it) that I have a extra bump on the side of my left hip bone that has slowly rubbed its way through the labral cartilage in my hip joint. The bump is called an impingement (or FAI...which stands for something...). It results from the fusion of growth plates and has nothing to do with my weight or misuse of my body (so suck it Dr. Curtis...who told me, and I quote, "You know Tim, most people lose the weight first and then run a marathon.")
The easy, but temporary, fix was to get a steroid shot directly in the joint, which I did on Tuesday.
Now comes the fun part...catching up on 2 weeks of missed training. Wish me luck.
Timmy
Thursday, August 5, 2010
(Not) Runnin' Runnin' and (Not) Runnin' Runnin'
(Not sure what Black Eyed Peas song the above title that is from, but please sing accordingly)
Yesterday was a traumatic day for me and my hip. I arrived at the imagining center for what I assumed would be a normal MRI. In and out. Wrong.
First, I was told about the procedure, which would involve needles and a needed ride home (which I did not have, because I was not told I needed one).
Second, I was forced to wait for 30 to 45 minutes extra after being told about said needle and possible ride-home mandatory side effects.
Third, I was placed on an x-ray table, whilst a group of doctors watched a needle be inserted into my hip joint on a neighboring television screen.
Fourth, I was injected into an MRI tube where I remained for an hour an five minutes.
At the end of all this trauma, the technician told me that a hip arthograph MRI (I could totally be spelling that incorrectly) is the longest MRI that they perform in that office. She didn't want to tell me before since the idea of spending an hour in the machine scares people...you think?
How I spent my time in the tube:
1. First 10 minutes - PANIC! I clutched the emergency button and forced myself not to push it mulitple times, despite the clear fact that the MRI tube was getting smaller and cutting off all my oxygen.
2. Second 10 minutes - Silently counting the number of songs played on the radio station I was listening to (91.7...what, what) through headphones slapped on my head at the last moment in a failed attempt to keep track of time.
3. Third 10 minutes - Imagining that the technician and all other trained MRI operators in the building had been killed in a rampage and that I was left alone...stuck in the machine...again, did not push the button.
4. Fourth 10 minutes - Focusing on my right foot and how badly I wanted to move it. I needed to move it. I must move it! I did not move it.
5. Fifth 10 minutes - Loving the technician for telling me I only had 17 minutes left (and for not being dead...see 3 above).
6. Last 15 minutes - Silently counting to 1000 slowly. How is it possible that minutes go so slowly.
Not sure what the name of my technician was, but I am sure that I have never loved a stranger more than when she ejected me from my hole in the MRI machine. Next time they ask me if I am claustrophobic the answer will be a resounding...YES.
Timmy
Days Left - 93
Total Distance Run - Same as below. Booooooo.
Yesterday was a traumatic day for me and my hip. I arrived at the imagining center for what I assumed would be a normal MRI. In and out. Wrong.
First, I was told about the procedure, which would involve needles and a needed ride home (which I did not have, because I was not told I needed one).
Second, I was forced to wait for 30 to 45 minutes extra after being told about said needle and possible ride-home mandatory side effects.
Third, I was placed on an x-ray table, whilst a group of doctors watched a needle be inserted into my hip joint on a neighboring television screen.
Fourth, I was injected into an MRI tube where I remained for an hour an five minutes.
At the end of all this trauma, the technician told me that a hip arthograph MRI (I could totally be spelling that incorrectly) is the longest MRI that they perform in that office. She didn't want to tell me before since the idea of spending an hour in the machine scares people...you think?
How I spent my time in the tube:
1. First 10 minutes - PANIC! I clutched the emergency button and forced myself not to push it mulitple times, despite the clear fact that the MRI tube was getting smaller and cutting off all my oxygen.
2. Second 10 minutes - Silently counting the number of songs played on the radio station I was listening to (91.7...what, what) through headphones slapped on my head at the last moment in a failed attempt to keep track of time.
3. Third 10 minutes - Imagining that the technician and all other trained MRI operators in the building had been killed in a rampage and that I was left alone...stuck in the machine...again, did not push the button.
4. Fourth 10 minutes - Focusing on my right foot and how badly I wanted to move it. I needed to move it. I must move it! I did not move it.
5. Fifth 10 minutes - Loving the technician for telling me I only had 17 minutes left (and for not being dead...see 3 above).
6. Last 15 minutes - Silently counting to 1000 slowly. How is it possible that minutes go so slowly.
Not sure what the name of my technician was, but I am sure that I have never loved a stranger more than when she ejected me from my hole in the MRI machine. Next time they ask me if I am claustrophobic the answer will be a resounding...YES.
Timmy
Days Left - 93
Total Distance Run - Same as below. Booooooo.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Temporary Set Back
After a couple weeks of hip pain, I finally broke down and went to the doctor. Last year the doctor diagnosed me with an IT Band issue...not uncommon or hard to remedy. I streched. I iced. I overcame.
This year is a little bit different.
Apparently I have something called a hip impingement. From what I gather, that is kind of a generic term for "your hip is f***ed up". I could have some ligament/cartilege tearing or perhaps a stress fracture. It's caused by overuse and "pounding the pavement".
BUT I am not out of the running yet...literally. My doctor understands that I want to run the NYC Marathon and he is working with me to make that happen. I have an Orthopedic MRI scheduled for next Wednesday and an appoitment immediately thereafter with the regional specialist in sports related hip injuries. I truly believe this will all be okay, but in the meantime, it's a little bit scary.
I'll keep you posted.
Timmy
Days Left - 99
Total Distance Run - 135.94 miles
This year is a little bit different.
Apparently I have something called a hip impingement. From what I gather, that is kind of a generic term for "your hip is f***ed up". I could have some ligament/cartilege tearing or perhaps a stress fracture. It's caused by overuse and "pounding the pavement".
BUT I am not out of the running yet...literally. My doctor understands that I want to run the NYC Marathon and he is working with me to make that happen. I have an Orthopedic MRI scheduled for next Wednesday and an appoitment immediately thereafter with the regional specialist in sports related hip injuries. I truly believe this will all be okay, but in the meantime, it's a little bit scary.
I'll keep you posted.
Timmy
Days Left - 99
Total Distance Run - 135.94 miles
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Aches and Pains
One thing I never fully appreciated about being "athletic" is the constant aches and pains. Don't misunderstand, I'm not talking about severe, mind numbing pain...just normal, take an aspirin and sit for a while achiness.
Since I sit still most of the day at my desk, getting out of my chair is always an adventure. In the BR era (Before Running), I would look forward to my hourly trip to the kitchen to fill up my water glass...now, I wonder whether my legs to loosen up before I get there so that I can walk by the secretaries' desks like a normal human being.
Unfortunately, my left hip and knee are beginning to give me a lot of trouble. Last year, when I was training for the half-marathon, I had to see a doctor and physical therapist to get it all straightened out. I am really hesitant to go to the clinic this year, as the "cure" was to take 2 weeks off of running...a luxury that I cannot afford.
It's just a hip, afterall.
Timmy
Days Left - 102
Total Distance Run - 133.54 miles
Since I sit still most of the day at my desk, getting out of my chair is always an adventure. In the BR era (Before Running), I would look forward to my hourly trip to the kitchen to fill up my water glass...now, I wonder whether my legs to loosen up before I get there so that I can walk by the secretaries' desks like a normal human being.
Unfortunately, my left hip and knee are beginning to give me a lot of trouble. Last year, when I was training for the half-marathon, I had to see a doctor and physical therapist to get it all straightened out. I am really hesitant to go to the clinic this year, as the "cure" was to take 2 weeks off of running...a luxury that I cannot afford.
It's just a hip, afterall.
Timmy
Days Left - 102
Total Distance Run - 133.54 miles
Friday, July 23, 2010
Half Way Home
This morning I had a great run. As you, my faithful readers, are aware, last Saturday I had a very bad run. It was a confluence of negative factors that resulted in a confidence shaking jog which ended 8 miles before I reached my 12 mile goal. It wasn't pretty. That was last week.
This week, I made 13 miles my bitch....or perhaps, my female companion who I was attracted to for her intellect...frankly, 13 miles was made my hired help, whom I pay a fair wage with benefits and for whom I provide a healthy retirement plan. I'm not saying I broke any records, but my run was great and I feel great about it.
All told, 13.17 miles took me 3 hours at 7 minutes. That's a 14 min/mile pace which is equivalent to molasses...cold molasses. However, that time includes the few minutes I spent dealing with a footware malfunction and a fun conversation I had with a professional runner at a random water stop. Basically, I feel pretty confident that I managed to maintain a 13 min/mile pace if you got rid of those extraneous stops. That was my pace on race day for the half marathon.
The one sad note is that I completed this run without Mary Katherine. It's lonely out there without your best friend to keep you company and talk you through it. I missed her.
Since arriving at work, I have been quick to tell people that I ran half a marathon this morning before coming to the office. People are interested in these things...even if they refuse to admit that they are.
Perhaps the best news of this whole affair...next Saturday I only have to run 12 miles..."only".
Timmy
Days Left - 107
Total Distance Run - 130.80 miles
This week, I made 13 miles my bitch....or perhaps, my female companion who I was attracted to for her intellect...frankly, 13 miles was made my hired help, whom I pay a fair wage with benefits and for whom I provide a healthy retirement plan. I'm not saying I broke any records, but my run was great and I feel great about it.
All told, 13.17 miles took me 3 hours at 7 minutes. That's a 14 min/mile pace which is equivalent to molasses...cold molasses. However, that time includes the few minutes I spent dealing with a footware malfunction and a fun conversation I had with a professional runner at a random water stop. Basically, I feel pretty confident that I managed to maintain a 13 min/mile pace if you got rid of those extraneous stops. That was my pace on race day for the half marathon.
The one sad note is that I completed this run without Mary Katherine. It's lonely out there without your best friend to keep you company and talk you through it. I missed her.
Since arriving at work, I have been quick to tell people that I ran half a marathon this morning before coming to the office. People are interested in these things...even if they refuse to admit that they are.
Perhaps the best news of this whole affair...next Saturday I only have to run 12 miles..."only".
Timmy
Days Left - 107
Total Distance Run - 130.80 miles
Thursday, July 22, 2010
13 milers
I'm headed out of town this weekend, and, while I would like to think my dedication to running is limitless, I am pretty sure I would get to Kansas City and think of a few excellent reasons to put off my 13 mile run.
So, in the spirit of staying on course, I have elected to give myself a rest day today and head to the lake at 5:00 am tomorrow morning. Once there I will attempt, nay, I will succeed at running 13 miles...all by my lonesome.
The Luke's route is technically 13.3 miles, but I am concerned that I would get lost with all the turns, so I have decided just to run the lake in my usual way.
Wow, this sounds like a terrible idea.
Timmy
Days Left - 108
Total Distance Run - 117.63 miles
So, in the spirit of staying on course, I have elected to give myself a rest day today and head to the lake at 5:00 am tomorrow morning. Once there I will attempt, nay, I will succeed at running 13 miles...all by my lonesome.
The Luke's route is technically 13.3 miles, but I am concerned that I would get lost with all the turns, so I have decided just to run the lake in my usual way.
Wow, this sounds like a terrible idea.
Timmy
Days Left - 108
Total Distance Run - 117.63 miles
Monday, July 19, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Some Days Are Better Than Others
I have to remind myself that not every day will be a walk in the park...or a run in the park...or technically around a lake. Saturday the lake defeated me.
I set out to run 12 miles, but about 4 miles in my body felt weak, sick and heavy. I barely made it to the top of extreme hill #1 (Winstead) when I turned to MK and waived the proverbial flag.
This past week has been filled with reasons to make me want to give up. My running has felt harder than it has since the very beginning. I may be dehydrated, but I am working on it. I may have gotten a little off schedule, but I am working on it. I may have to run 13 miles next Saturday...and I have every intention of doing it.
We are going to chalk this past week up to a useful reminder that nutrition, hydration, consistency and stretching really to make a difference. Hopefully this is the last time I learn that lesson.
Timmy
Days Left - 112
Total Distance Run - 110.95 miles
I set out to run 12 miles, but about 4 miles in my body felt weak, sick and heavy. I barely made it to the top of extreme hill #1 (Winstead) when I turned to MK and waived the proverbial flag.
This past week has been filled with reasons to make me want to give up. My running has felt harder than it has since the very beginning. I may be dehydrated, but I am working on it. I may have gotten a little off schedule, but I am working on it. I may have to run 13 miles next Saturday...and I have every intention of doing it.
We are going to chalk this past week up to a useful reminder that nutrition, hydration, consistency and stretching really to make a difference. Hopefully this is the last time I learn that lesson.
Timmy
Days Left - 112
Total Distance Run - 110.95 miles
Friday, July 16, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Dehydration
As you may have noted below...my run this morning was less than acceptable. On my slow trudge back to my apartment I thought of a few reasons why:
1 - I was not meant to do this
2 - I am not able to do this
3- People laugh at me when I do this
However, I have decided that none of those things are true. After a trip to my nutritionist (shout out to Jill!), I learned that since my last visit to her office, I have dropped approx. 14 lbs of water. Folks, that ain't right. So now I am convinced that my lack of steam and achiness is a direct result of dehydration.
If you need me over the next 2 days (before my big run on Saturday) I will be drinking water somewhere...or possibly in the toilet.
Timmy
Days Left - 115
Total Distance Run - 101.79 miles
1 - I was not meant to do this
2 - I am not able to do this
3- People laugh at me when I do this
However, I have decided that none of those things are true. After a trip to my nutritionist (shout out to Jill!), I learned that since my last visit to her office, I have dropped approx. 14 lbs of water. Folks, that ain't right. So now I am convinced that my lack of steam and achiness is a direct result of dehydration.
If you need me over the next 2 days (before my big run on Saturday) I will be drinking water somewhere...or possibly in the toilet.
Timmy
Days Left - 115
Total Distance Run - 101.79 miles
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Century Mark
Dear Faithful Readers -
I've been away. I realize there is no excuse...tat you have come to relay on me for constant running and marathon updates...but I needed a vacation.
A few very exciting things happened in the last two weeks:
1 - My vacation first took me to Marfa, Texas, a small artist community in West Texas that I love and fully expect to have a home in one day. As an "avid" runner I was struck by, what I am sure you have already considered, the brilliance of a marathon in Marfa. It could be called the MARfATHON (TM).
Having been at work until 3:30 am on Thursday night, followed by traveling all day on Friday, running Saturday morning was not an option...but not getting in a long run wasn't either. So Sunday morning at 6:00 a.m. I pulled myself out of bed and hit the highway (literally). I ran down the perfectly straight highway headed west out of Marfa and decided to run to the antenna tower I could see in the distance...not exactly knowing how far that would be. The weather in Marfa at 6:00 am is amazing. Very little humidity (even with the constant showers that fall during the day this time of year) and about 60 to 65 degrees. I could have run for hours...oh wait, I DID run for hours.
As I ran toward the antenna towers, I heard something approach from my right hand side...it was definitely not a car. When I turned, there were 3 or 4 horses running next to me in a field. It felt like a Hallmark made for television movie. Of course if that was the case, I would be a recently widowed executive from the "City" looking to start fresh in the "Country" and the horses would have immediately been joined by a woman on horseback with whom I would fall in love despite all odds.
2 - I learned that the air in Santa Fe and my lungs do not cooperate. Climbing stair was a challenge, people. More so than normal anyways. Running at that altitude was not an option.
3 - People run in Las Vegas. No, seriously. And not just away from mob bosses or angry strippers. As I was making my way home at 5:15 one morning (ahem...) there were several very focused men fitted with running shorts and marathon garb trotting their way down Las Vegas Boulevard. I did not join them.
4 - I hit the Century Mark! I starting keeping track of my total mileage run in training for the marathon when I actually started my official training with Luke's Locker. As of Monday, I have run more than 100 miles. To be clear, I am not counting the distance I run when I am sprinting stairs...which I do once a week on my cross training days. Perhaps I will tell you more about that in a future post.
Timmy
Days Left - 116
Total Distance Run - 100.21 miles
I've been away. I realize there is no excuse...tat you have come to relay on me for constant running and marathon updates...but I needed a vacation.
A few very exciting things happened in the last two weeks:
1 - My vacation first took me to Marfa, Texas, a small artist community in West Texas that I love and fully expect to have a home in one day. As an "avid" runner I was struck by, what I am sure you have already considered, the brilliance of a marathon in Marfa. It could be called the MARfATHON (TM).
Having been at work until 3:30 am on Thursday night, followed by traveling all day on Friday, running Saturday morning was not an option...but not getting in a long run wasn't either. So Sunday morning at 6:00 a.m. I pulled myself out of bed and hit the highway (literally). I ran down the perfectly straight highway headed west out of Marfa and decided to run to the antenna tower I could see in the distance...not exactly knowing how far that would be. The weather in Marfa at 6:00 am is amazing. Very little humidity (even with the constant showers that fall during the day this time of year) and about 60 to 65 degrees. I could have run for hours...oh wait, I DID run for hours.
As I ran toward the antenna towers, I heard something approach from my right hand side...it was definitely not a car. When I turned, there were 3 or 4 horses running next to me in a field. It felt like a Hallmark made for television movie. Of course if that was the case, I would be a recently widowed executive from the "City" looking to start fresh in the "Country" and the horses would have immediately been joined by a woman on horseback with whom I would fall in love despite all odds.
2 - I learned that the air in Santa Fe and my lungs do not cooperate. Climbing stair was a challenge, people. More so than normal anyways. Running at that altitude was not an option.
3 - People run in Las Vegas. No, seriously. And not just away from mob bosses or angry strippers. As I was making my way home at 5:15 one morning (ahem...) there were several very focused men fitted with running shorts and marathon garb trotting their way down Las Vegas Boulevard. I did not join them.
4 - I hit the Century Mark! I starting keeping track of my total mileage run in training for the marathon when I actually started my official training with Luke's Locker. As of Monday, I have run more than 100 miles. To be clear, I am not counting the distance I run when I am sprinting stairs...which I do once a week on my cross training days. Perhaps I will tell you more about that in a future post.
Timmy
Days Left - 116
Total Distance Run - 100.21 miles
Monday, July 12, 2010
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Blood, Sweat and Tears...Emphasis on the Blood
Last Saturday I ran 8 miles with the Luke's crew. Before the run got started out coach gathered our group for what I presumed would be the predictable "you can do it/Gipper" speech. Instead, what we heard was "Feel free to turn around at the 7-11."
What does this mean for me...the 7-11 turn around is where you turn around if you are running 7 miles. In fact, the 7-11 turn around results in you running 7.4 miles, but Luke's Locker brushes that off by saying that we are running "Luke's Miles" which must be somewhat akin to the metric system or measuring temperatures in Kelvin. Needless to say, our coach felt that 7.4 miles was close enough to 8.
In a car, I would totally agree with that. But trust me, if your assigned task is to run 8 miles, it's a long, long way between 7.4 and 8. Regardless, MK and I decided to buck the trend and run a full 8 miles. We passed the 7-11 with a flourish and kept right on running. In fact, we were the only people in our group to run the full 8 miles. Unfortunately, we were the only people who knew that. The result of running farther than your group is that you finish that much more behind them.
As we ran the return route back to the starting block, we realized after a bit that we were being followed by a man in scrubs on a bicycle. Apparently it's Luke's policy that the medical team trail the last runners back into homebase. Much like a lion trails the slowest anteloupe.
Rather than feeling proud of our accomplishment, MK and I wound up constantly slipping into our conversation with Rich (medical guy on bike) that we had run farther than our group. It was kind of pathetic, but at that point, I didn't care.
In fact, I was grateful for Rich's presence because I was in the middle of a medical emergency. At some point in the 8 miles my shirt decided to take on about 2 gallons of sweat. This sweat weighed down my shirt which caused it to press against my chest. The swishing motion of my running caused the pressing shirt move slightly back and forth. This is what we in the biz call friction.
After about 7 miles I realized that I was in some serious pain. But frankly there is no good way to tell someone that you think you nipples are being slowly sanded off of your chest. So instead I did my best to pull my shirt off the affected area and run in like a champ. But in case you are curious...here's the result...you have been warned...
Timmy
What does this mean for me...the 7-11 turn around is where you turn around if you are running 7 miles. In fact, the 7-11 turn around results in you running 7.4 miles, but Luke's Locker brushes that off by saying that we are running "Luke's Miles" which must be somewhat akin to the metric system or measuring temperatures in Kelvin. Needless to say, our coach felt that 7.4 miles was close enough to 8.
In a car, I would totally agree with that. But trust me, if your assigned task is to run 8 miles, it's a long, long way between 7.4 and 8. Regardless, MK and I decided to buck the trend and run a full 8 miles. We passed the 7-11 with a flourish and kept right on running. In fact, we were the only people in our group to run the full 8 miles. Unfortunately, we were the only people who knew that. The result of running farther than your group is that you finish that much more behind them.
As we ran the return route back to the starting block, we realized after a bit that we were being followed by a man in scrubs on a bicycle. Apparently it's Luke's policy that the medical team trail the last runners back into homebase. Much like a lion trails the slowest anteloupe.
Rather than feeling proud of our accomplishment, MK and I wound up constantly slipping into our conversation with Rich (medical guy on bike) that we had run farther than our group. It was kind of pathetic, but at that point, I didn't care.
In fact, I was grateful for Rich's presence because I was in the middle of a medical emergency. At some point in the 8 miles my shirt decided to take on about 2 gallons of sweat. This sweat weighed down my shirt which caused it to press against my chest. The swishing motion of my running caused the pressing shirt move slightly back and forth. This is what we in the biz call friction.
After about 7 miles I realized that I was in some serious pain. But frankly there is no good way to tell someone that you think you nipples are being slowly sanded off of your chest. So instead I did my best to pull my shirt off the affected area and run in like a champ. But in case you are curious...here's the result...you have been warned...
Timmy Days Left - 134
Total Distance Run - 69.32 miles
Monday, June 21, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
When I was 28
Tomorrow I turn 29. I am not overly sentimental about it, but 28 has been a good year.
This time last year, I had only completed my first day of Luke's training and was convinced that I would never run more than 10 consecutive minutes. The summer was spent slowly building up to 30 full mintes of continuous running and by the fall we were adding a mile a week. In December, I completed the White Rock Half Marathon and thought I would run forever. But in January I decided the retention of my tonsils needed to take a back seat to the ability to breathe and had them ripped out...which was a minor set back. By the time I decided to start running again, I felt like I was starting from zero. Obviously, many adventures were had over the past year, but becoming a runner has been one of the more rewarding.
So tomorrow starts a new era. The time of 29. My last good year...kidding. This coming year has so much potential. I am determined to lose 40 more pounds. I am committed to sticking to my running program. And I will finish the New York City marathon.
Oddly enough, I moved this time a year ago into a highrise apartment with a killer view and luxurious amenities. This past weekend I moved again, this time into a quaint condo with hardwood floors and a questionable neighborhood. I guess my home is half as nice, but my goals are twice as big. Don't really know where that thought is going...just an observation.
Look for an entry this time next year that says something about crossing the finish line in Central Park (and possibly a description of my new apartment under a bridge and a plea for donations for my efforts to swim the English Channel).
Timmy
Day Left - 143
Total Distance Run - 59.09
This time last year, I had only completed my first day of Luke's training and was convinced that I would never run more than 10 consecutive minutes. The summer was spent slowly building up to 30 full mintes of continuous running and by the fall we were adding a mile a week. In December, I completed the White Rock Half Marathon and thought I would run forever. But in January I decided the retention of my tonsils needed to take a back seat to the ability to breathe and had them ripped out...which was a minor set back. By the time I decided to start running again, I felt like I was starting from zero. Obviously, many adventures were had over the past year, but becoming a runner has been one of the more rewarding.
So tomorrow starts a new era. The time of 29. My last good year...kidding. This coming year has so much potential. I am determined to lose 40 more pounds. I am committed to sticking to my running program. And I will finish the New York City marathon.
Oddly enough, I moved this time a year ago into a highrise apartment with a killer view and luxurious amenities. This past weekend I moved again, this time into a quaint condo with hardwood floors and a questionable neighborhood. I guess my home is half as nice, but my goals are twice as big. Don't really know where that thought is going...just an observation.
Look for an entry this time next year that says something about crossing the finish line in Central Park (and possibly a description of my new apartment under a bridge and a plea for donations for my efforts to swim the English Channel).
Timmy
Day Left - 143
Total Distance Run - 59.09
Monday, June 14, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Lessons to Learn
I have a lot to learn about running. I know it seems rather straightforward. Left foot...right foot...repeat ad nauseum. Nonetheless, I have a lot to learn.
For example, last week we received an email from our Luke's coaches informing us in detail the desired color and transparency of urine, before, during and after our long runs. Apparently, we are hoping for something akin to light lemonade, but I digress... This week we received an email about the dangers of running in the heat. The letter warned that running between the hours of noon and three was particularly dangerous. No need to tell me twice. I have previously discussed the insanity that is lunchtime running on this blog, and let me assure you once was enough.
I am also learning this week to respect "the base". As in, I built a "base" upon which I can build. As foolish as it sounds, there is a part of me that thought until we get to the "real mileage" that I would be totally fine. Sure I might not feel so hot, but I've run a half-marathon and will generally be okay. I was wrong.
Last week, as I previously mentioned, I didn't exactly follow the rules. I skipped a few runs, I shorted the others. And then I paid the price. My 6 mile run on Saturday was shortened to a 4.5 mile run with about a 1.5 mile walk thrown in for good measure. It was degrading. It was disappointing. It was terrifying. A 6 mile run isn't even 1/4 of a marathon.
So this week I made a commitment to stick to the schedule. I have done well so far (2 runs down, 2 to go), but staying on task will require a 50 minute run tonight followed by a 50 minute run tomorrow morning. Ouch. Why? Because I still need to learn how to get out of bed. That'll teach me.
Timmy
Day Left - 150
Total Distance Run - 38.92 miles
For example, last week we received an email from our Luke's coaches informing us in detail the desired color and transparency of urine, before, during and after our long runs. Apparently, we are hoping for something akin to light lemonade, but I digress... This week we received an email about the dangers of running in the heat. The letter warned that running between the hours of noon and three was particularly dangerous. No need to tell me twice. I have previously discussed the insanity that is lunchtime running on this blog, and let me assure you once was enough.
I am also learning this week to respect "the base". As in, I built a "base" upon which I can build. As foolish as it sounds, there is a part of me that thought until we get to the "real mileage" that I would be totally fine. Sure I might not feel so hot, but I've run a half-marathon and will generally be okay. I was wrong.
Last week, as I previously mentioned, I didn't exactly follow the rules. I skipped a few runs, I shorted the others. And then I paid the price. My 6 mile run on Saturday was shortened to a 4.5 mile run with about a 1.5 mile walk thrown in for good measure. It was degrading. It was disappointing. It was terrifying. A 6 mile run isn't even 1/4 of a marathon.
So this week I made a commitment to stick to the schedule. I have done well so far (2 runs down, 2 to go), but staying on task will require a 50 minute run tonight followed by a 50 minute run tomorrow morning. Ouch. Why? Because I still need to learn how to get out of bed. That'll teach me.
Timmy
Day Left - 150
Total Distance Run - 38.92 miles
Monday, June 7, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
For a Good Cause...
Since running has had such a huge impact on my life, I want my run to help impact the lives of others. I will be running the New York City Marathon as a member of Fred's Team (benefitting Memorial Sloan-Kettering, an institution with unequaled expertise in diagnosing and treating cancer) to raise funds for crucial cancer research.
If you want to help, an online donation can be made using the link below:
http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/Freds_Team?px=1760239&pg=personal&fr_id=1310
Timmy
Days Left - 155
Total Distance Run - 29.87 miles
If you want to help, an online donation can be made using the link below:
http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/Freds_Team?px=1760239&pg=personal&fr_id=1310
Timmy
Days Left - 155
Total Distance Run - 29.87 miles
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The Plan
I am having some problems sticking to the above referenced "Plan." Otherwise known as the "Schedule." AKA the weekly workouts. I know from experience that the plan works...it really does. But, as mentioned before on this blog, the other problem is that I love to sleep.
Sunday - I'm going to give myself a pass for Sunday. It was the day before a holiday. Also, two members of my four person running crew didn't show up (for very legitimate and good reasons) on Saturday to run, so I thought my day off was justified.
Monday - Come on, do I even have to justify not running on Memorial Day? No. No, I don't.
Tuesday - Bonus points for me, because Tuesday is my designated day of rest, but because I care more about patriotism than fitness (see comment re: Monday), I thought I needed to run...so I ran...25 minutes...instead of 40. Okay, so no bonus points.
Wednesday - I have no excuse. None. I just ask for your compassion and hope that you can forgive me. Darn it Bed. Darn it.
Thursday - As per usual, 6 a.m. comes mighty early. 5:30 a.m. comes earlier...which is when my alarm when off to get me out of bed and down to Oak Cliff. MK and I ran 35 minutes...instead of 50. Dang.
Saturday may not be so pleasant, but MK and I are firmly committed to running the actual schedule all next week. Stay tuned.
Timmy
Day Left - 156
Total Distance Run - 29.87 miles
Sunday - I'm going to give myself a pass for Sunday. It was the day before a holiday. Also, two members of my four person running crew didn't show up (for very legitimate and good reasons) on Saturday to run, so I thought my day off was justified.
Monday - Come on, do I even have to justify not running on Memorial Day? No. No, I don't.
Tuesday - Bonus points for me, because Tuesday is my designated day of rest, but because I care more about patriotism than fitness (see comment re: Monday), I thought I needed to run...so I ran...25 minutes...instead of 40. Okay, so no bonus points.
Wednesday - I have no excuse. None. I just ask for your compassion and hope that you can forgive me. Darn it Bed. Darn it.
Thursday - As per usual, 6 a.m. comes mighty early. 5:30 a.m. comes earlier...which is when my alarm when off to get me out of bed and down to Oak Cliff. MK and I ran 35 minutes...instead of 50. Dang.
Saturday may not be so pleasant, but MK and I are firmly committed to running the actual schedule all next week. Stay tuned.
Timmy
Day Left - 156
Total Distance Run - 29.87 miles
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Welcome to the OC (of Dallas County)
"Mary Katherine lives in Oak Cliff. I like Mary Katherine. Mary Katherine will run with me. I like running with others." I repeat these things to myself as I run with MK on Thursday mornings in beautiful Kessler Park...land of 1,000 gently rolling hills.
MK and I start our Tour de Oak Cliff at the crest of a hill on Junior Drive. It's a scenic spot, known for its varied flora and fauna (mostly ground coverings and the occasional raccoon) and mid-century modern dwellings (of unknown origin, truly one of Dallas's great mysteries...built circa 1954). At the crest of the hill the world is your oyster. There's a nice breeze, it's six a.m., the sun is just beginning to show itself, and the humidity is too lazy to make the climb to the top.
We start our run by clomping our way down the hillside. Running downhill can hurt after a bit--your joints kind of ache from all the pounding. By the time we reach the bottom, the laws of physics have taken over and I pray that no obstacles are suddenly thrown in my way, because I am counting on the momentum to keep my going for 5 to 10 minutes.
MK has introduced me to a seemingly pleasant running trail that winds its way along Kessler Parkway. It's about a mile round trip, and appears harmless. Don't be fooled. The trail is just a series of hills stretched out in a park like setting to make you think it's flat. The treachery.
Don't get me wrong, driving these hills wouldn't require down shifting your car. The sad fact is, you wouldn't even notice these hills if you were walking them, much less driving them. But when you are running them...particularly a few miles in, you tend to notice them. The remainder of the run consists of MK or myself commenting about how much we hate whatever hill we are climbing at the time.
There is an odd phenomenon when running. A gentle downward slope is totally unnoticeable. It's neither easier nor harder than just running on flat ground. Conversely, that same slope, when taken in reserve, is somewhat akin to a backward ski jump. No one knows why. It's just a fact.
And then there's the return trip to the top of Junior Drive. At this point the world is anything but an oyster...in fact the thought of oysters alone would make you instantly ill. Week 1 I made it half way up...to the last fence post of large house on the left #1. Week 2 I made it 60% to the top, to the start of the stone wall of large house on the left #2. Next week, I'm totally going to make it up to the top...of 70% of the hill...which we all know if the end of the stone wall of large house on the left #3.
Timmy
Days Left - 163
Total Distance Run - 20.5 miles
MK and I start our Tour de Oak Cliff at the crest of a hill on Junior Drive. It's a scenic spot, known for its varied flora and fauna (mostly ground coverings and the occasional raccoon) and mid-century modern dwellings (of unknown origin, truly one of Dallas's great mysteries...built circa 1954). At the crest of the hill the world is your oyster. There's a nice breeze, it's six a.m., the sun is just beginning to show itself, and the humidity is too lazy to make the climb to the top.
We start our run by clomping our way down the hillside. Running downhill can hurt after a bit--your joints kind of ache from all the pounding. By the time we reach the bottom, the laws of physics have taken over and I pray that no obstacles are suddenly thrown in my way, because I am counting on the momentum to keep my going for 5 to 10 minutes.
MK has introduced me to a seemingly pleasant running trail that winds its way along Kessler Parkway. It's about a mile round trip, and appears harmless. Don't be fooled. The trail is just a series of hills stretched out in a park like setting to make you think it's flat. The treachery.
Don't get me wrong, driving these hills wouldn't require down shifting your car. The sad fact is, you wouldn't even notice these hills if you were walking them, much less driving them. But when you are running them...particularly a few miles in, you tend to notice them. The remainder of the run consists of MK or myself commenting about how much we hate whatever hill we are climbing at the time.
There is an odd phenomenon when running. A gentle downward slope is totally unnoticeable. It's neither easier nor harder than just running on flat ground. Conversely, that same slope, when taken in reserve, is somewhat akin to a backward ski jump. No one knows why. It's just a fact.
And then there's the return trip to the top of Junior Drive. At this point the world is anything but an oyster...in fact the thought of oysters alone would make you instantly ill. Week 1 I made it half way up...to the last fence post of large house on the left #1. Week 2 I made it 60% to the top, to the start of the stone wall of large house on the left #2. Next week, I'm totally going to make it up to the top...of 70% of the hill...which we all know if the end of the stone wall of large house on the left #3.
Timmy
Days Left - 163
Total Distance Run - 20.5 miles
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
(Literally) Running Errands
Yesterday morning I decided to multitask. Instead of simply running around for 30 or so minutes, I was going to run around with a purpose...(sidenote - yes, I realize that all my running has a purpose...blah, blah, blah). On my way out the door, I grabbed the late video (An Education, for those of you who are interested...it's actually quite good, though they either ran out of money or time at the end) and decided to run it back to Blockbuster. Not in the sense that I usually "run" errands, which is to say, in my car. I actually ran, which is to say, on my feet.
I must say, I really enjoyed doing it. I know it is ridiculous, but I felt very self-important. I don't need modern conveniences like a vehicle...heck no. Cars are for the weak and people who live in suburbs.
Next time I am going to try and barter with Blockbuster for my rental. Then I can be done with cars and money. Then I'm pretty sure the societal evils left to me would be high fructose corn syrup and air conditioning.
Timmy
Days Left - 166
Total Distance Run - 16.32 miles
I must say, I really enjoyed doing it. I know it is ridiculous, but I felt very self-important. I don't need modern conveniences like a vehicle...heck no. Cars are for the weak and people who live in suburbs.
Next time I am going to try and barter with Blockbuster for my rental. Then I can be done with cars and money. Then I'm pretty sure the societal evils left to me would be high fructose corn syrup and air conditioning.
Timmy
Days Left - 166
Total Distance Run - 16.32 miles
Monday, May 24, 2010
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Six Miles...and counting
Tomorrow morning, if everything goes as planned, I will run 6 miles. For your viewing pleasure, I have attached a map of White Rock Lake, which I have marked with red X's for the start/turn around/finish lines. We start at the Bath House run 3-ish miles and then turn around.
Enjoy
Timmy
Days Left - 170
Total Distance Run - 9.6 miles
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
A Running Tally of my Running Total
Starting today, there's a new feature on See Tim Run.
You may have noticed the "Total Distance Run" notation at the bottom of the previous entry. I decided to start keeping track of my total milage beginning with last Saturday's official training kickoff. This total won't include the several weeks of training runs that lead up to this point, but at least it's a clear staring point.
This will either be incredibly inspirational or cripplingly depressing. Stay tuned.
For the record, including Saturday, I have run 26.41% of a one marathon...like I said, cripplingly depressing.
You may have noticed the "Total Distance Run" notation at the bottom of the previous entry. I decided to start keeping track of my total milage beginning with last Saturday's official training kickoff. This total won't include the several weeks of training runs that lead up to this point, but at least it's a clear staring point.
This will either be incredibly inspirational or cripplingly depressing. Stay tuned.
For the record, including Saturday, I have run 26.41% of a one marathon...like I said, cripplingly depressing.
Cross Training
Tuesday morning was my first day of Cross Training. Glorious.
What is cross training? Running can make me a bit angry, so I hardly need training in how to be cross while hitting the pavement morning after morning. Additionally, while exercise can be a religious experience for some, my training program is not intended to mold us into servant leaders.
No, in fact, as best I can tell cross training is simply an excuse to use "exercise vernacular". For example, after Tuesday morning's workout, I got to say "I hit the bikes this morning", which is similar to "I worked it out in Zumba" or "Step aerobics totally killed me." Runners rarely get to use gym-slang as (i) running is primarily done outside and not in the confines of a gym (notable exception being made here for the occassional [though nonetheless frowned upon] treadmill), and (ii) running is best described as "running ___ distance/time". There's no need to elaborate or describe how "brutal" or what a good "burn" you got. Everyone knows it's hard.
So, in the spirit of cross training, I worked up a mean sweat on the stationary bike. Totally brought the pain. I think I knocked out about about 10 miles. My quads are killing me.
Now, back to running ____ distance/time.
Timmy
Days Left - 172
Total Distance Run 6.92 miles
What is cross training? Running can make me a bit angry, so I hardly need training in how to be cross while hitting the pavement morning after morning. Additionally, while exercise can be a religious experience for some, my training program is not intended to mold us into servant leaders.
No, in fact, as best I can tell cross training is simply an excuse to use "exercise vernacular". For example, after Tuesday morning's workout, I got to say "I hit the bikes this morning", which is similar to "I worked it out in Zumba" or "Step aerobics totally killed me." Runners rarely get to use gym-slang as (i) running is primarily done outside and not in the confines of a gym (notable exception being made here for the occassional [though nonetheless frowned upon] treadmill), and (ii) running is best described as "running ___ distance/time". There's no need to elaborate or describe how "brutal" or what a good "burn" you got. Everyone knows it's hard.
So, in the spirit of cross training, I worked up a mean sweat on the stationary bike. Totally brought the pain. I think I knocked out about about 10 miles. My quads are killing me.
Now, back to running ____ distance/time.
Timmy
Days Left - 172
Total Distance Run 6.92 miles
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
Dum dum DUUUUUUM
Tomorrow it really begins. 5 miles with Luke's at 7 a.m. In some ways, I think if I can finish tomorrow, I've got the marathon in the bag. Please do not throw this entry in my face later.
Timmy
Days Left 177
Timmy
Days Left 177
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Lunch on the Run
Today, for the first and last time, I ran over lunch. Perhaps there are places (e.g. Napa Valley, Wyoming, heaven) where running over lunch makes sense. Those places aren't particularly humid, they are not particularly hot, and they aren't 90% paved (notable exception being made here for streets of gold). I learned a few things:
1. Dallas is not Napa Valley
2. 90 degrees is hot, and it's not a dry heat
3. Black shirts are slimming but do simulate a skin tight furnace when exposed to the noon sun
4. When the sun is out, it is easier to see your reflection in the buildings that you are running by
5. I do not like to see my reflection while I am running
6. You have to stop sweating before taking a shower or it's all for naught
7. It takes at least 30 minutes directly in front of a tower fan to stop sweating
As much as I hate waking up in the morning, it seems to be the only time that works. Granted, this morning I had to make a trip to the airport at 6:20, and, come on, everyone has their limits.
Timmy
Days Left 178
1. Dallas is not Napa Valley
2. 90 degrees is hot, and it's not a dry heat
3. Black shirts are slimming but do simulate a skin tight furnace when exposed to the noon sun
4. When the sun is out, it is easier to see your reflection in the buildings that you are running by
5. I do not like to see my reflection while I am running
6. You have to stop sweating before taking a shower or it's all for naught
7. It takes at least 30 minutes directly in front of a tower fan to stop sweating
As much as I hate waking up in the morning, it seems to be the only time that works. Granted, this morning I had to make a trip to the airport at 6:20, and, come on, everyone has their limits.
Timmy
Days Left 178
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Fartleks
One of the bonuses of taking up running is that I get to utilize the word "Fartlek" in everyday conversations. One of the downsides of taking up running is that I have to do them.
Fartlek...as I am sure you know...is some non-English word meaning "speed play". I think the use of the word "play" in the definition is perhaps a bit of a stretch. Essentially, you speed up (what we runners call "sprint") for a bit, and then you slow down (what you might call "walk") for a bit. If you repeat this process an unknown number of times, before you know it, apparently, you get to be a faster runner.
This morning I was reintroduced to the Fartlek. While I am thrilled to be able to drop that term in polite conversation, I am hesitant to fully embrace the Fartlek. My run entailed 10 minutes at an easy pace, followed by 10 thirty second Fartleks (30 second sprinting/30 second slow run), followed by 10 minutes at an easy pace. To be honest, time really does go faster when doing Fartleks...correction...the time spent at a slow run/walk between the sprinting goes faster. The time spent actually sprinting is definitely elongated.
Timmy
Days Left 180
Fartlek...as I am sure you know...is some non-English word meaning "speed play". I think the use of the word "play" in the definition is perhaps a bit of a stretch. Essentially, you speed up (what we runners call "sprint") for a bit, and then you slow down (what you might call "walk") for a bit. If you repeat this process an unknown number of times, before you know it, apparently, you get to be a faster runner.
This morning I was reintroduced to the Fartlek. While I am thrilled to be able to drop that term in polite conversation, I am hesitant to fully embrace the Fartlek. My run entailed 10 minutes at an easy pace, followed by 10 thirty second Fartleks (30 second sprinting/30 second slow run), followed by 10 minutes at an easy pace. To be honest, time really does go faster when doing Fartleks...correction...the time spent at a slow run/walk between the sprinting goes faster. The time spent actually sprinting is definitely elongated.
Timmy
Days Left 180
Monday, May 10, 2010
Four Miles and a New Friend
I know that all of you have been anxiously awaiting an update on Saturday's 4-miler. Well, the wait is over.
MK and I arrived at the lake around 7:15 and had a great run. The weather was great, the lake was kind of busy, and MK and I had a lot of gossip to catch up on...so there were numerous distractions to take my mind off of the monotony that can be running. We even made a new friend! Granted, we don't know her name and will never see her again, but friends we are, nonetheless.
Here's the scoop. About a mile into the run, I spied a woman in the distance who appeared to be of approximately the same skill and experience as myself (i.e., little to none). She was outfitted in pink cotton gym shorts and a t-shirt likely purchased on vacation to Orlando or New Orleans. I believe there was also a sweatband involved. I say all of this not to make fun of her, but to say that I am familiar with the outfit...because, change the color and the destination, and that is exactly what I wore when I first started running.
Much to my dismay, the distance between our future friend (who was ahead of us) and the MK/Tim dynamic duo was growing. I have never claimed to be a fast runner, but I thought I could at least spot the weakest gazelle. However, soon thereafter, pink-shorts gave up on the running and started to walk it out. Long story short we caught up with her and struck up a conversation, wherein we learned Pinky was returning to running after a break and was having a bit of a time getting her grove back. We talked for a few minutes as the three of us ran together about running programs for beginners and what a difference the Luke's Locker program made in our lives. It still gets me excited to tell people about the program and to assure them that if I can do it...ANYONE can do it.
For most people this would have been a passing exchange, soon forgotten. But for me, it's these type of conversations that I know I will be thinking about at mile 21, when it feels like I am about to collapse. I'm not out to prove anything to anyone but myself, and neither is Pinky, but still, I feel like we're in it together.
Timmy
Days Left 181
MK and I arrived at the lake around 7:15 and had a great run. The weather was great, the lake was kind of busy, and MK and I had a lot of gossip to catch up on...so there were numerous distractions to take my mind off of the monotony that can be running. We even made a new friend! Granted, we don't know her name and will never see her again, but friends we are, nonetheless.
Here's the scoop. About a mile into the run, I spied a woman in the distance who appeared to be of approximately the same skill and experience as myself (i.e., little to none). She was outfitted in pink cotton gym shorts and a t-shirt likely purchased on vacation to Orlando or New Orleans. I believe there was also a sweatband involved. I say all of this not to make fun of her, but to say that I am familiar with the outfit...because, change the color and the destination, and that is exactly what I wore when I first started running.
Much to my dismay, the distance between our future friend (who was ahead of us) and the MK/Tim dynamic duo was growing. I have never claimed to be a fast runner, but I thought I could at least spot the weakest gazelle. However, soon thereafter, pink-shorts gave up on the running and started to walk it out. Long story short we caught up with her and struck up a conversation, wherein we learned Pinky was returning to running after a break and was having a bit of a time getting her grove back. We talked for a few minutes as the three of us ran together about running programs for beginners and what a difference the Luke's Locker program made in our lives. It still gets me excited to tell people about the program and to assure them that if I can do it...ANYONE can do it.
For most people this would have been a passing exchange, soon forgotten. But for me, it's these type of conversations that I know I will be thinking about at mile 21, when it feels like I am about to collapse. I'm not out to prove anything to anyone but myself, and neither is Pinky, but still, I feel like we're in it together.
Timmy
Days Left 181
Friday, May 7, 2010
Day of Rest (Sanctioned)
Friday is a wonderful day for many reasons. Foremost on my list is the fact that on Friday I get a guilt free day off running. Unsanctioned rest days are great too, but the Southern Baptist in me never feels quite right about it.
Mary Katherine and I are planning a 4 mile run at the lake tomorrow morning at 7 in case any of our adoring fans might want to catch a glimpse. Word on the street is there may even be a special guest runner (who MK may abandon me for so that they can relive the glory days of last summer...it's Jenny!) joining us tomorrow.
Nothing like running with an entourage.
Timmy
Days Left - 184
Mary Katherine and I are planning a 4 mile run at the lake tomorrow morning at 7 in case any of our adoring fans might want to catch a glimpse. Word on the street is there may even be a special guest runner (who MK may abandon me for so that they can relive the glory days of last summer...it's Jenny!) joining us tomorrow.
Nothing like running with an entourage.
Timmy
Days Left - 184
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Back to Backs
When I worked at the Mansion on Turtle Creek, I used to work a lot of back to back shifts. Meaning, I would work until 11 pm the first night and would begin working at 7 am the next morning. With a 20 minute commute home and a 30 minute commute back to work, that gave me approximately 6 hours of sleep. I was given a lot of back to backs...those were the days.
I have a new kind of back to back in my life, and I experienced my first one of my new training season this morning. After work yesterday I ran 2.75 miles, finishing up about 8 pm. This morning my alarm went off at 6:10 am (I pushed snooze until 7:30) at which point I sprang out of bed (read: silently cried as I forced myself to put on my shoes) and raced toward the door (read: stared longingly back at the bed and the slight impression that I could still make out in the sheets) to hit the open road (read: to be hit by the open road).
I ran a short couple miles and then had to get ready for work (see comment above regarding 1 hour and 20 minutes of snooze button heaven). Certainly not a long run, but in combination with last night's efforts, it's enough to make my legs feel like putty for the rest of the day.
Back to backs at the Mansion were hard on my social life...back to backs in running are hard on everything.
Timmy
Days Left - 185
I have a new kind of back to back in my life, and I experienced my first one of my new training season this morning. After work yesterday I ran 2.75 miles, finishing up about 8 pm. This morning my alarm went off at 6:10 am (I pushed snooze until 7:30) at which point I sprang out of bed (read: silently cried as I forced myself to put on my shoes) and raced toward the door (read: stared longingly back at the bed and the slight impression that I could still make out in the sheets) to hit the open road (read: to be hit by the open road).
I ran a short couple miles and then had to get ready for work (see comment above regarding 1 hour and 20 minutes of snooze button heaven). Certainly not a long run, but in combination with last night's efforts, it's enough to make my legs feel like putty for the rest of the day.
Back to backs at the Mansion were hard on my social life...back to backs in running are hard on everything.
Timmy
Days Left - 185
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Oh Crud
I have signed up for the Luke's Locker Early Marathon training program. I did not do this under duress and I cannot claim to have been misled. However, I was under the impression that we only had to run a 4 mile "evaluation run" the first and second Saturday of the program. Well, I was wrong. We have to run an evaluation run alright. We have to run 5 miles on the first Saturday and 6 miles on the second Saturday.
I am beginning to have small bouts of panic.
Why...WHY did I sleep in this morning. There's no time for sleeping!
I am beginning to have small bouts of panic.
Why...WHY did I sleep in this morning. There's no time for sleeping!
Motivational Issues
I don't like running after work. It hurts. Well, it hurts more. I also don't like getting out of my bed for almost any reason. And there's the rub.
This morning I chose to sleep in, which means I'll be running after work and wishing the whole time that I had just made my lazy self get out of bed.
Also, the temperature is supposed to exceed 90 degrees for the first day (of many days) this year.
What a great night to run.
Timmy
Days Left - 186
This morning I chose to sleep in, which means I'll be running after work and wishing the whole time that I had just made my lazy self get out of bed.
Also, the temperature is supposed to exceed 90 degrees for the first day (of many days) this year.
What a great night to run.
Timmy
Days Left - 186
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
What a difference 2 days make
Sunday was a rough day for running. Mary Katherine (my best friend and now marathon running buddy) and I set out to run 4 miles on the Katy Trail. This was not a cold turkey 4, this was a 4 mile run that I thought I was prepared to tackle after a few weeks of training (albeit, I hadn't been the most dedicated trainee). I was wrong. 3 miles in I had to throw in the towel...reminding me just how far I have to go before I am ready for November.
This morning, however, was an entirely different story. I felt great. I felt like I was flying...only not in the sense that it was easy or pain free...just that I was running a lot faster than I normally do. I have only felt this way a couple other times since the start of my running career. I don't think it's the same as the elusive "runner's high," but I'll take it!
I'm conquering the 4 mile hurdle this Saturday...rain or shine, and if I can keep running like this morning, I'll do it in record time. Well, at least a personal record.
Timmy
Days Left - 187
This morning, however, was an entirely different story. I felt great. I felt like I was flying...only not in the sense that it was easy or pain free...just that I was running a lot faster than I normally do. I have only felt this way a couple other times since the start of my running career. I don't think it's the same as the elusive "runner's high," but I'll take it!
I'm conquering the 4 mile hurdle this Saturday...rain or shine, and if I can keep running like this morning, I'll do it in record time. Well, at least a personal record.
Timmy
Days Left - 187
Monday, May 3, 2010
And so it begins...
Last November 1, I was lucky enough to be in the crowd of the world's largest spectator sporting event...the New York City Marathon. (Whether it actually is the world's largest, I have no idea, but I have heard that twice, so it must be true). My friend Kristi was running. She was inspired. She was inspirational. She was insane. Nevertheless, you couldn't help but wish you were running it too. One million screaming fans can't be wrong.
The marathon, however, was not Kristi's biggest accomplishment of 2009...at least from my perspective. What is truly amazing is that Kristi convinced me to sign up for the Luke' s Locker "Get With It" program. "Get With It" is a class designed for people, like myself, who have never run before...ever. From the first week's 10-minute jog, until I crossed the finish like at the White Rock Half Marathon in December, every week I managed to surpise myself. I made great friends (shout out to Noreen!) and lost a few pounds (shout out to the 70 pounds I lost in 2009!)....so, when Kristi told me I needed to put my name in the lottery for the 2010 NYC Marathon, I immediately signed up. With a 40% chance of having my name drawn to run the race, I assumed fate would decide whether I was meant to be a marathon runner.
And it did. My name wasn't drawn. But there are ways around fate.
I am now a proud member of Fred's Team (a charity benefitting cancer research) and have been officially accepted for the NYC Marathon. I've never blogged before, but thought this might be a fun way to keep everyone posted. Thanks in advance for your support (please stay tuned for more direct and gratuitous pleas for your cash money...it's for cancer people!).
Timmy
Days Left - 188
The marathon, however, was not Kristi's biggest accomplishment of 2009...at least from my perspective. What is truly amazing is that Kristi convinced me to sign up for the Luke' s Locker "Get With It" program. "Get With It" is a class designed for people, like myself, who have never run before...ever. From the first week's 10-minute jog, until I crossed the finish like at the White Rock Half Marathon in December, every week I managed to surpise myself. I made great friends (shout out to Noreen!) and lost a few pounds (shout out to the 70 pounds I lost in 2009!)....so, when Kristi told me I needed to put my name in the lottery for the 2010 NYC Marathon, I immediately signed up. With a 40% chance of having my name drawn to run the race, I assumed fate would decide whether I was meant to be a marathon runner.
And it did. My name wasn't drawn. But there are ways around fate.
I am now a proud member of Fred's Team (a charity benefitting cancer research) and have been officially accepted for the NYC Marathon. I've never blogged before, but thought this might be a fun way to keep everyone posted. Thanks in advance for your support (please stay tuned for more direct and gratuitous pleas for your cash money...it's for cancer people!).
Timmy
Days Left - 188
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