Got in 7 miles in 1:06 this morning on our usual Thursday morning run. Shan and Diana joined me.

Ran in Newton's

2010.......1025

Alltime.......13784

Ran 10 miles this morning around LBL in 1:47!! Very happy with that effort. And......I think I've decided to upgrade to the 100k. Hold on. Is that upgrading? I know for sure it's upgrading the pain level!!

I'm really excited to be commiting to a "real" endurance event even if I'm going to be walking a lot of it. And, It'll be another huge notch on the gunbelt towards the 500k jacket.

Rick's spot

Didn't really feel like running but got myself moving and got in 10 miles on the Greenbelt from the HOL.

I stayed in the bottom and turned around after visiting Rick's spot. Ian and his friend really got the cross in the ground solidly. All around it you could see the evidence of flood water rolling thru but the cross was standing tall!! The small tree behind the cross is even gone!!

The power of Mother Nature is amazing. She took Rick's life and keeps on rolling.

Newton

Got in a real easy 7 miles this morning at LBL. I wore the new Newton's for the first time. They felt weird but good. The lift in the forefoot is a bit strange but the change in running gait can be felt immediately.

I'm gonna wear them once a week or every other run for the time being. I'm afraid I'd get injured if I wore them more often. It'll take a little while for my body to adjust to them.

Spent almost 6hrs in Barton Creek and got in 22ish miles this morning. It was cold but I bundled up good and got started at 6am sharp.

I did Rudy's across Sculpture Falls up the Power Line around the outer perimeter trail, down Cedar Chip and back up the HOL. The plan was for Dave to meet me at 8am. I had perfect timing giving myself 10 minutes for a transition after greeting Dave and meeting his girlfriend Leslie. Mark drove up as I was walking to my car. The original plan was for him to join me at 6am but he texted letting me know he was sleeping in.

My plan was for us to run the 10 mile loop that Mark, Doug, Shan and Sam used to do years ago on a weekly Wed run.

Leslie's plan was to get in 3 miles so Mark suggested we do it backwards and get in the easy flat first. As we passed it I pointed out the 1 mile marker from the top of the hill. Leslie was on her own and Mark, Dave and I continued on.

Mark and Dave are both triatheletes so I knew they'd have plenty to talk about. Having already done 8 miles I was happy to let them do the talking. We maintained a good pace on the flat, did a bit of walking when we got to Twin Falls. I was ready to get off the flat and get in the hills.

Dave said he was enjoying himself and seemed to be impressed by the Grotto. He got a kick when we got ready to head for a downhill and I told him that after the down we'd have an uphill that would get us less than 100yds down the trail from where we were then.

I was pretty disappointed when we got done and Dave said his GPS said 8.5 miles. For years we've thought it was 10 miles. When Shan's schedule settles down we'll check it out on the new one Doug got her for Christmas.

When we got back to the cars Dave and Mark asked me what I was gonna do. I said, "I'm gonna do it again". I thanked Dave and Leslie for coming, refilled my bladder, stocked up on gels and headed back out. I was tired but got in a pretty good rhythm. I went the usual direction and by the time I got to the rocky ass powerline trail my feet were fucking screaming. I decided to call it a day at that point. I was initially disappointed with my miles, wanting to get in the higher twenties but my feet got a good pounding and that will bode well for Bandera in a few weeks.

I think I've got a good recovery going. I'm gonna need to figure out a bit of extra cushioning in these Velocity's.

Dec.....92 miles

Mark and I ran the 7 mile loop at LBL this morning in 1:11. Shan and Diana were out today. Mark had a tight calf from Decker and is still recovering from Run Like the Wind also so he didn't feel like pushing it and I was good with it.

He may join me at 6am Saturday at the HOL for all or part of my long run. Dave Richmond is coming from San Antonio to join me for 10 miles at 8am too. I'm really excited about showing him the trails on Barton Creek!!

Didn't much feel like it

Ran 7.5 miles from the office to LBL around Mopac to Congress loop and back to the office. I didn't sleep very well and didn't much feel like running. Even after I got down to the office and got my car unloaded I still didn't much feel like it but headed out anyway. Glad I did.

Ran 6 miles at McAllister Park Saturday morning with Dave Richmond in 1:03. All week my plan had been getting in 12 miles Saturday but I just couldn't squeeze in the time. That's okay though. I had some pretty high mileage (for me) the previous week so this has been a good recovery week.

Dec.......55 miles

Did the 7 mile loop at LBL in 1:04:30 with Shan, Diana and Mark. I guess Steve has kicked us to the curb. We haven't heard from him in weeks.

It was awfully cold!! I felt pretty good considering how I felt yesterday morning after my ill-advised lunges on Tue. Yesterday my right piriformis was screaming.

Still feeling good about my decision to enter the 50k instead of the 100k although Shan says I'll change my mind the day before. I guess we'll see!!

Run Like the Wind

Ran the 6hr event at Run Like the Wind yesterday. I made 29.76 miles in the 6hrs. Afterwards I walked 2 more loops to make it 50k.

After my run was over I stuck around and worked the rest of the race. There were 10-12 12hr and 24hr runners that Sam needed help taking care of. It was cold and I was tired, I took 2 2hr naps but really enjoyed hanging with Mark Lindsey and Sam.

Just like old times....

Dec......42

No, I'm trying to lift my leg on the wall

Ran 11 miles this morning at LBL with Shan, Diana and Mark in 1:56. That time includes a water break. Mark did the first 7 with us in 1:05 and change.

We ran 11 miles because Shan wanted to do 3 miles plus 8 miles for her 38th birthday today!!

It was a cold but good run. I forgot to add that we stopped at Auditorium shores at the 9 mile mark to stretch. I could feel my right piriformis pulling. As I was stretching I observed Shan holding her right leg bent at the knee with her foot up under her hip. Knowing she has ongoing piriformis issues also I asked her if that was a new stretch. She said, "no, I'm trying to lift my leg up on the wall'.

Fall

Well, I rolled both ankles and fell down once yesterday on the trails at Shepard Mountain. Not such a great decision to actually plan on running there after the sun goes down. Very rocky and undulating and tight. It probably would have been okay if I had had a hand light to supplement my headlamp.

Thankfully when I fell it was on some soft dirt. It very easily could have been disastrous.

Anway, lesson hopefully learned. Got in approx 7 miles in 1:20

November......84 miles

My 9 mile Thanksgiving Day Urban Adventure

Thanksgiving morning I had a course all planned out. Mom's house down Military to West Ave to Jackson-Keller up Vance Jackson to Dreamland back to Mom's house for a total of 5 miles.


Well, I got started down Military and thought about how cool it would be to continue south and see if I could find Chuck Dakin's house and surprise him on Thanksgiving morning. The only information I had was that he lives on Storeywood and I remembered his white Lexus SUV.


As I ran down West Ave it seemed odd to be running this road after having traveled it so many times by car. After having mentally commited to it I realized that I know the names of all the streets in the neighborhood but I couldn't even try to tell you where they are except for Pilgrim of course.


As I crossed LP 410 the daydreaming and reminiscing began. Bill Miller on the corner. A man named English used to run a beatup old auto repair shop on the property just south of Bill Miller. Continuing south and across the street is The Little Red Farm School that was owned by an old friend's parents. I notice the pool has been filled in with dirt. Farther south we have the Columbia 300 bowling ball company. There's a parking lot that used to be a nice flat grassy area that guys used to play football on on the weekends. I remember driving by and seeing the older boys playing and wished I was big enough to play with them.


When I got to Columbia 300 I turned right, crossed the tracks and then turned left heading north on Neer. I told myself not to zone out.....to remember to focus on every street name as I ran by. It's so easy to daydream while running and miss stuff......maybe that's part of the appeal. I continued down Neer and off to my left I was surprised to be looking across West Ave right down the length of the railroad tracks.


"The tracks" were an endless bounty of imagination and play as a kid. If a train was coming we'd put coins on the tracks for the trains to flatten. There were always beer bottles. We'd set them up on the tracks and throw rocks at them. There were usually empty train cars left there. We'd climb all over them. All we had to do get to the tracks was cross our street, walk the length of the house across the street from ours and we were there. That was the way to the Buy-Rite. Buy-Rite was a small neighborhood grocery store that my Mom would send me to for small items.


I got to the end of Neer and there was the old gas station remodeled but appearing empty. Back then there were lots of gas stations not owned by corporations and this was one of them. The guy who owned this one had a huge reputation for a being a grouch. One of my memories of this place is buying used tires for my truck because I couldn't afford new ones. I turned south on West Ave again and looked across the street at an old strip center.

It held the barbershop where I used to get my hair cut. It also had a beauty salon where my Grandmother went to get her hair done on Friday afternoons. This is the center that holds the Buy-Rite grocery store I mentioned earlier. Continuing south there used to be a field at the end of the shopping center that I imagined DD and I walking thru on the way to crossing the four lanes of West Ave. We didn't like what Mom was serving for lunch one Saturday afternoon so she told us to go to Mama Dee's. "Maybe you'll like what she's serving better", is what she said. So, we did it. We arrived at Mama Dee's and she and Pa didn't know what to think. Needless to say Mom was not happy.

I continued up the hill and after a few more blocks got to Storeywood. I was about to turn right but realized those streets have one block the opposite direction that deadends into Neer. I thought, "now wouldn't it be just my luck to run the entire long four blocks one direction and his house be on the short side. So, I ran the short block and no white Lexus so I doubled back on Basswood. I ran and walked all of Storeywood and didn't see his vehicle.

Well, I was disappointed but kept on moving. I doubled back on Basswood, slowed and then stopped at Pilgrim Park. What memories that held!! Playing on the playground equipment, birthday parties and the first pool I can ever remember being in. I can remember learning how to swim in that pool.

I got to Vance Jackson, turned left and headed back to Mom's house pleased with myself and wondering why I hadn't done this sooner.

Still got it

Got in 20 miles on the Barton Creek Greenbelt this morning!! I did it in 4:40. 2:10 for the 1st loop, 10 min transition, 2:20 2nd loop. Very good pacing. I stayed fueled up nicely too. My glutes are still as issue but are not going to hamper me too badly.

I adjusted my gait making it shorter and focused on keeping my feet directly under my torso. I could feel the right piriformis but it wasnt pulling......that's huge!! I need to continue a good stretching routine and see how things go.

And, I got in my target miles for the first time on a long time!!

Very, very encouraging run today.....I think I've still got it!!!!

Week......34

Nov......68

Ran 7 miles this morning with Diana and Mark in 1:07:30. It was pretty cool and really windy. The predicted temp was 41. My glute issue is not going away. I'm going to continue stretching it and using the foam roller. I think I'll make a final decision about whether or not to run the 100k after my 20 miler this Saturday.

HOL repeats

Got in 7 miles at Barton Creek from the HOL this morning. I started at 530 and got in 4 repeats up and down the hill in 1:40.

The HOL (Hill of Life) is very close to the intesection of CampCraft and Scottish Woods in Westlake across CapTex from Westlake HS. The trail drops approximately 350 ft over approximately 800 yds. The HOL is the west end of the traditional 7.5 mile trail and the east end is at the far end of the Barton Springs parking lot. It's very rocky uneven terrain which means it's perfect for training for a course like Bandera.

My plan is to do the hill repeats every Tuesday morning between now and the race.

Ran 12 miles Saturday morning at McAllister Park in San Antonio. I did the first loop alone and Dave Richmond joined me for the 2nd loop. He's a classmate of mine that I connected with thru Facebook. We never really knew each other very well in high school but had a great time running together. My overall time for the 12 miles was 2:30.

After talking to John Pittman yesterday on the way home about his bodybuilding competition I was so fired up I ran 5 miles thru Forest Ridge in Bull Creek.

Nov.....34

Got in 4 miles in my Mom's neighborhood early this morning. I got a shit nights sleep but went ahead and got up at 5am when the alarm went off. I'm glad I did it. I really needed it.

Ran an easy 4 miles at Barton Creek from the HOL. My tight glute/ piriformis/ hamstring bothered me some until I got warmed up. It never went away completely but I continued on.

What a beautiful afternoon. I wish I was 100% and also had more time. At least I got to enjoy some of it.

Ran 9 miles yesterday at my sisters house in 1:37. My glute problem has now moved to the the hamstring really high up. Not sure what's going on with this. Gonna use the TP ball and continue stretching and continue running.

Disappointing miles this month. We do have a lot going on though, I don't want to use that excuse.

October 76 miles

Glute

Ran the 7 mile loop at Lady Bird Lake this morning with Shan. Diana couldnt make due to her and Rob't being in Bandera for Cactus Rose. I'm not sure what the deal is with Mark and Steve. Haven't heard from them in weeks.

I hit LBL Tuesday after work with the intention of running the 7 mile loop but wasn't feeling so hot so I settled for the 4 mile loop. I was wearing a new pair of Velocity's and everything seemed fine until I got up to get a drink of water at 3am and felt a strain in my right glute.

That's my frickin good glute too!! It's amazing that something as simple as putting my inserts on top of the factory insole changed my gait enough to cause the strain in my glute. My normal routine is to pull the factory insole out and replace it with the Spenco inserts. Doing this helps alleviate my metatarsal pain.

I got to the parking lot early this morning like usual and did my normal 2-3 walking loops around the parking lot to get warmed up and realized it felt a lot better than yesterday evening. We stopped at the zero marker for a couple of minutes for me to stretch it out and continued on.

I never really felt good the entire run, never hit that, "effortless" feeling. But, the mad part is that we had a really good time of 1:05:30 including the stop. We were both pleasantly surprised!!

Even with everything going on in my life that is affecting my running I am still determined to get to the starting line of the Bandera 100k and Rocky Raccoon 50m

First day with new Velocity's

Ran 10 miles with Shan and Diana at LBL this morning in 1:42!! I got there early like usual and walked 3 laps around the parking lot for a warmup, also some light stretching. However, I didn't feel very good during the run, just never felt strong. Our time for the 7 of 1:05:42 was a bit disappointing but still not bad. I wasn't planning on joining them for 3 more but they guilted me into it, reminding me of the 2 major winter runs I have planned.

I felt pretty good on the last 3. We walked across the Lamar bridge and had one more short walk with less than a mile. With all of that I was very pleased with the overall time.

Oct.......56 miles

Hyde Park

Ran 6.4 miles from the office across to San Jacinto north to 45th via Duval St. Across 45th down Lamar, east on 24th, south on Rio Grande and back to the office in 1:10. Cool down walk included.

Nice slow warm up. Nice easy pace. Mixed in some walking. It was really nice running thru Hyde Park and seeing the old houses. I've mixed it up good this week, running Forest Ridge Monday and Hyde Park today.

Bull Creek ROCKS

Ran the 8 mile loop at Forest Ridge in 1:40 yesterday afternoon. Even after all the times I've run out there I forgot how rocky it is. Or, maybe it's my worn out ass Velocity's. Hopefully I'll get the new one's I ordered by the weekend.

Ran 7 miles at LBL this morning in 1:06:40 with Shan and Diana. We had a really good run and had a good time considering we stopped twice. Once because we ran by Steve and his wife Jane, stopped and chatted with them for a minute and then again when a group of runners running from the opposite direction clipped Diana. The karma police will get them. They didnt even slow down to say they were sorry. It entered my mind to run and yell at someone but then I'd look like a crazy old bastard, yelling at a group of guys not knowing who did it. Anyway, I told them that I'd take the inside from now on and run interference.

Tuesday morning I ran from the office down to LBL and ran the 4 mile loop and back to the office.....7 miles in 1:22. Nice easy run.

Shan, Diana and Steve and I ran the 7 mile loop at LBL in......we don't know our time. Steve and Shan were a couple of hundred yards in front of us. We were having another really good run......I'm going to guess that we'd have finished in under 1:04, but with less than 1/2 a mile to go Diana and I see up ahead that a person is stopped on the trail. We took a few more steps and realize that Shan is down on the trail. She is on the ground in agony with a nasty abrasion on her left knee and cinder mud all over the right side of her body. My immediate thought with her still on the ground was that something was broken. Right away I offered to run on to my car to call 911 but she said not too.

After standing there for what seemed like several minutes she let us help her to her feet. We all stood there for another minute while she continued to gather herself.

After walking the couple of hundred yards to the footbridge she suggested we run slowly across. We did and she thought everything was okay besides her ego.

Two interesting things; she tripped on an embedded rock that couldn't have been protruding up more than an inch and our overall elapsed time was faster by 30 secs than in the heat 5 or 6 weeks ago.

I also got in an easy 5 miles at Kens yesterday after work. I took it easy, enjoying the trails I hadn't been on in months. I also spent time talking on the phone to John P and DD.

I seem to be having no ill effects from running 3 days in a row. I haven't done that in at 7 or 8 years. I did take the time to get in a good stretch after our run this morning.

Week........19

Homies

Ran 7 miles at Barton Creek in 1:30 yesterday after work. I did the 5 mile Rudy's loop and then the 1 mile out and back on the HOL for a total of 7. It was good. The achy knee has sort of returned. Not sure about that. I feel like more running might help it.

I saw Shan's friend Tom twice. We met the first time on the flat as I was coming off the HOL and then again in the same place after I had turned around. We stopped and chatted briefly the first time we saw each other. I think he had forgotten my name but he said he's going to join us on our Thursday morning run next week.

I sent Chuck Dakin, Mark Barr and John Pittman messages this morning about them taking turns pacing me during the 2nd half of the Bandera 100k. I think it would be a hoot to have some old homies get a small taste of what I do for recreation. Chuck seems to have gotten himself into pretty good shape. He's posted on FB several times about running 5 miles. He shouldnt have any problem doing 10 during the night with me. I'm sure John would be cool with it. Even though he's in unbelievable shape he complains about his knees when he runs. The little amount of slow running we'll be doing mixed in with the walking should be cake for him.

And......here's the bonus. It'll be an opportunity for Mark to get back in shape. Thankfully he's not overweight. He said he weighs about what I do. With him being just a shade shorter that really doesn't put him overweight. All he needs to do is start a running/ walking program now and he should be good to go for an easy 5 in Jan. Anyway......I hope it all works out.

Ran 10 miles this morning with Shan, Diana and Mark. I did the 1st 7 in 1:04:30!! We never stopped the entire way. That's the first time that's happened since last winter!! I was feeling so good with about a 1/2 mile to go I kicked my ass off and ran it in from there!!

It's been a pretty good month of running. I've mentally commited to running the Rocky Raccoon 100 mile in Feb. I'll also run either the 50k or 100k at Bandera....leaning toward the 100k right now.

Today I signed up for the Core Performance online workouts for 10 bucks a month. My strategy for that is that it's a quality 6pk and a half of beer and if I'm paying money maybe, hopefully I'll be more motivated to get it done. It will be immmensely helpful in getting ready for the winter events especially since my mileage is going to be compromised with all the stuff going on with my Mom.

Sep......92

2010......744

Velocity.......346

Alltime......13499

Her first dinner at Woodland Home


There she sat. Her first lunch at the new place. Sitting there making small talk in her own dignified way. The other ladies were friendly enough but it seemed surreal, like we were in a mad, crazy movie. The other women had long since given up. They seemed content living in the menagerie that is Woodland Home.

Her first meal was the previous days dinner. We walked in and all eyes were on us. It seemed like we were people from another planet dropping off another inmate. It couldn't have been more uncomfortable. We made a move for the first available table to our right. One of the inmates immediately informed us that that spot was reserved. You've got to be kidding me, I thought!! I wheel her around to another empty spot at the same table and waited for some more inmate instruction but it didn't come, thankfully.

The nice ladies at the table she sat with during that days lunch offered me an empty chair. I grabbed it and thanked them.

I instinctively scan the dining room observing the inmates in their various states of life. A lady with a ton of makeup on walked in with an air about her that seemed strange. She started talking, not necessarily to anyone, just talking. As we are are making small talk the woman with the makeup starts singing. It seems to be an old song that she is expecting others in the room to know as she waves her arms gesturing for them to join in. One or two people half heartedly join her. As they sing a few bars a man at the next table starts booing and telling the woman to shut up. "Turn it down", he says in a tired old voice.

A few minutes later a woman who had had her hand up for a little while needing assistance, swipes her entire meal off her table, everything crashing to the floor.

Her first dinner at Woodland Home.

Did the 7 mile at LBL yesterday after work in 1:19.

Starting the positive visualization for Rocky Raccoon 100 mile in Feb. I forgot to mention that I texted Naresh a few days ago and told of my plans for a 29:55 100 mile and he said he'd join me. So, it's looking like he and I are gonna do it together. I'm really excited!!

Ran the 10 mile LBL loop this morning with Shan, Diana and Steve. We did it in 1:50. We havent had 4 runners in quite a while. Another good run!!

Living the Dream

when I was young, eleven or twelve
I had a realization running long
was the most virtuous thing
an idea I revisited occasionally
the dream was derailed by life
but it didn't die
it was waiting until I was ready

Did a 1:30 exploring adventure yesterday after work in my 'hood. In a nutshell I ran and walked, did a bit of backtracking and looking around on different trails. I estimate I got in around 5 miles.

Several weeks ago I noticed that some construction was about to start on the backside of the park near our house. This morning I searched around on the internet and found that the construction appears to be connecting Walnut Creek near our house to Walnut Creek over in the Parmer/ Lamar area. The website says it'll be 3.25 miles. I was a bit disappointed when I read it'll be a 10ft wide concrete pathway, but it'll still be pretty damn cool.

Mostly ran 10 miles this morning at LBL with Shan and Diana in 1:50. We had an excellent first 7 in 1:09 considering the super high humidity. The last 3 were junk miles. Shan and Diana ran away from me with about 1.5 left. No biggie. It was another good morning spent running!!

60 miles

The last 2 mornings I ran the 6 mile loop at McAllister Park in San Antonio. 2 really good runs. Got some good stuff worked out in my crazing fucked up head.

On a good roll. Halfway thru the month and I've already matched my number of August running days!!

I've decided what I'm doing for my 50th birthday. I'm gonna do a crazy scared straight with Misty's nephew Vincent. He's been having some disciplinary issues in school so I'm gonna have Erin meet Misty and I in Giddings. Erin will pass Vincent off to me right around the corner from the State School and a few minutes later he will be standing in the security unit where the worst teens in the state of Texas are held. More to come....

Ran and walked 2 hrs in Barton Creek. I took the POS trail off the HOL and headed down to the dam. The water was still rolling strong over the dam so crossing was out of the question. I then ran the flat all the way to to the Mopac entrance, doubled back, and then ran up to Rudy's. When I got back to the HOL I turned and ran back on the POS trail but stayed on the upper trails that would around and back to the backside of the HOL. I'll estimate that I got in a good 8 miles. I can't remember getting in such a good Friday evening run before.

Back to fucking reality tomorrow!!!

Shan, Diana and I ran the 7 mile loop at LBL this morning in 1:12. A pretty decent time considering we made several stops and detours along the way. We also did some walking so my big ass could catch a rest. The humidity was really high so my legs felt drying bags of cement. Good run though and great company as usual!!

Sep........30 miles

Misty and I did a 3 mile walk in Barton Creek this morning. We started at the Mopac entrance walked to Twin Falls, crossed and continued west. I had really been wanting to show Misty the Grotto so we took that trail (she thought it was super cool) then up the hill along the ridge and back down to the main trail and across Sculpture Falls. Years ago Misty and I walked from the HOL to Zilker but stayed on the main trail so she had never seen Sculpture Falls either. We crossed there and walked the main trail back. It took us 90 min so I estimating it was around 3 miles.

What an enjoyable time!! 2 days in a row in the Creek. Could anybody ask for anything more?

Got in 3hrs of communing with Mother Earth and GrandFather Sky in Barton Creek.

I think I got in around 13 miles. I did the SDMS 10 mile loop backwards. Made a wrong turn at Hidden Trail and turned around when I got to Travis Country. Got back on the main trail and got back on track and no more booboos after that. I tacked on the trail to Lost Creek at the end. That was nice for a change. I hadnt been down that trail in years!!

Excellent run......I really needed that!!

Ran 7 miles yesterday evening in Barton Creek. I was dead tired from everything that's been going on besides a shitty nights sleep the last 2 nights. So.....all day long I didnt know if I'd have the spunk to get out and do it but I made it. And, like I already knew if I did get out there, it was great!! David Jacobson and some others were parking at the same time as me and I yelled over to them to go ahead without me, that I was,"gonna have some solitude this evening".

Today is the 9th anniversary of Misty's Mother's death. She was really tore up this morning as she related her morning dream of her Mom. Losing your Mother is never easy but it seems worse when she's taken from you just when you're starting to develop your adult relationship with her.

It is so painful watching my Mom go thru what she's going thru but, I've had the pleasure of living a full life with her and she's had a good and full life. I'm very grateful for that.

I'm a little disappointed with my mileage this month but I suppose it could have been worse considering everything.


August.......60 miles

Velocity........254

2010........652

Shan and I got in 10 miles at LBL this morning in 1:41!!

The lack of humidity makes such a huge difference first thing in the morning. The air actually feels lighter. Shan and I were about 4.5 miles into the run when she commented about what a good run we were having. I had been thinking the same thing but didn't want to say it out loud. When she said it, I said, "ssshhh, we've got a long way to go". I think we only had 1 more short walk after that. As we were finishing Shan said she was gonna get in 3 more easy miles. During our cool down walk I gave it some thought and am really glad I did the last 3 miles. And, for us to finish in 1:41 is very encouraging. And, as always, the company was great!!

Ran the 7 mile loop at LBL this morning. I felt good so I did a bit of easy Fartlek.

Ran 4 miles yesterday from the office. I ran up Rio Grande to 29th street, crossed Lamar and ran along Shoal Creek thru Peace Park in the dark. Very nice run.....took it easy.

Ran 7 miles at LBL this morning with Shan and Diana. We were less than a mile into our run on a narrow part of the trail and a couple of women ran up behind us and said," Excuse us ladies, we're going to pass on the left". I was on the far right and I wondered if they saw me too......it was dark. After they had ran past us a bit Diana or Shan, I can't remember who, said," I wonder what they thought about the big women on the right"!! We laughed about that on and off the rest of the run.

Today we mixed in more short walk breaks and finished in 1:09, 2 min faster for me vs. the last 2 weeks!!

August.....36

Ran 7 miles at McAllister Park yesterday morning. My time (1:22) wasn't indicative of how good I felt. I got into a great tempo several times that felt so effortless. When I get into that it is like nirvana!! That feeling is what we as runners strive for.

Tuesday evening I got in a hot easy 6 mile saunter thru the woods in Barton Creek. I checked the newspaper yesterday and it was 99 at the start of my run. It wasn't bad though and I took it easy.

This morning Shan, Diana and I did the first 6 miles of the 7 mile loop together. I was whipped so I told them to go ahead without me with 1 mile to go. We did the first 5 miles in 45 minutes so I was pretty happy with that.

Mom went to rehab yesterday evening. During our conversation this morning I told her this is her only chance at getting back to a normal life. She said she's tired of hearing that.

Got in a 5 mile run in my Mom's 'hood yesterday morning.

Mom was doing much better yesterday and then today asked Kelsey how her Xmas was.

We're riding a fucking roller coaster!!

I joined Shan and Diana for the usual 7 mile run morning run yesterday. I was afraid I'd be really creaky and slow but we knocked it out it in 1:11 with several walk breaks. Really, really happy with that!!

I already knew it but after all the madness the last 2 weeks there was nothing but affirmation about how much running lifts my psyche. Yesterday at work I felt like a burden had been lifted. I felt positive and upbeat. So....I decided I need to continue getting in several runs a week however short they may be. I've mapped a 3 and 4 mile route in my Mom's neighborhood I can easily knock out Saturday and Sunday mornings.

In keeping my runs short and not driving to do them I won't feel guilty about taking time away from visiting Mom. In fact, it's most likely gonna be better for everyone concerned with my head being clearer. And, I should at least be able to maintain my 80 miles a month.

Ran and walked Rudy's Loop for 5 miles at Barton Creek from the HOL in 1:05.

Trying to come to terms with my Mom's illness. It seems the Dr is having trouble coming up with the right concoction of drugs to get her pressures right. It really is surreal Mom being in this condition almost exacly 6 months after losing Dad. I'm not sure how willing or strong she is to put up a fight. She seems so tired.

July......83

2010......584

Steve and I had a really good run this morning. We did the usual 7 mile loop in 1:09:30. I was really happy with that time since I talked most of the way and we also got in a couple of walk breaks too.

I've been thinking I need to focus on getting more protein after my runs. So, I think I'm gonna splurge a bit and get some Myoplex to drink after my hard 7 milers on Thursday mornings and for after my long runs on Saturdays. I think it will work better than the HEB Ensure that I've been using. 42g of protein vs. 9g

Had a nice easy meandering 4 mile run/ walk around downtown this morning

Had an excellent run Saturday morning with Steve Frederick. We ran the 15 mile Rick Gastelum Trail (Zilker to HOL) out and back in 3:13.

My original plan was to get it in around 3:30-3:40 but once Steve accepted my invitation to run I knew it would be faster. It worked out good.

It was a long freakin day though. Had my alarm set for 5am. Got up at 4am. Met Steve at the pool parking lot at 6am. Ran. Soaked in the pool spilloff for a little while. Went straight home and started getting ready to leave for Gruene. Got to Gruene around 2pm. Started drinking soon there after. Did a 2hr float. Saved Ray Cotton from drowning. Ate potluck. Continued drinking until bedtime at 11:30pm.

Did it all over again Saturday!! Life is really good!!!

July.......67

Ran 7+ miles at LBL this morning. Did the first 4.5 with Shan, Diana and Steve in 44:50. Shan and Diana bugged out after that. Shan is tapering a bit for her Tri this Sunday. Steve and I then did the 3 mile loop to finish.

It's a shame how the first loop kicked my ass.....especially since we were only doing 10 minute miles. Oh well.....feeling good and looking forward to my 15 miler tomorrow.

Got in 7 miles this morning at LBL. I changed it up and did the Lamar-Pleasant Valley loop. Muggy as hell!! Took my time and got in some really good post run stretching. All is well.....feeling healthy!!!

Ran and walked a super easy 4 miles at LBL with Charlie.

Got in 10 miles yesterday morning at LBL. After all the rain we've had I knew Barton Creek would be too muddy. I had a shit nights sleep and still felt pretty good during the run. My time was 1:55. I'm feeling good and ready for the final buildup for Rick's run.

July.....34

Joined in the usual 7 miler this morning with Shan and Mark....and we had a guest. Diana Heynen joined us this morning. It was a very nice change in our routine. She is so easy going and easy to be around.

Mark pissed me off several times though!!

He doesnt have the same filter that most of us do. He'll say insulting things trying to be helpful. He has a way of casually belittling people and always has as long as I've known him. That's why I stopped associating with him for several years.

Real friends are supposed to be supportive. Real friends are supposed to be tactful if they think a friend needs advice of any kind.

Anyway, feeling good after our run this morning. I think my foot is good and the knee actually feels okay. Now if I can just be creative in keeping up my mileage up next week after getting soused this Saturday and.......our Guadalupe River trip next weekend.

I just remembered I've got next Friday off. Maybe I can get in an early 15 miler that day!!

Got in an easy 4 miles at LBL this morning. The foot feels okay I think. Yesterday was the 3rd anniversary of Rick's death so I sent his daughter Andrea an email letting her know I was thinking of her. I was very pleased this morning to receive a reply email from her saying she's in town nursing a friend who has cancer. She also said in her email that she runs LBL daily. I invited her to our Thursday run tomorrow morning. I sure hope she makes it.

Ran 6 miles at Barton Creek from the Hol yesterday. After my run I got a bunch more stuff done around the house.

Nursing phantom aches in my right foot after my stupidity last Saturday in the pool. Icing it regularly. I'm sure it'll be okay soon. The problem is that I'm getting behind the eight ball in my miles for Rick's 50 mile.

Shan and I had a very humid 7 miler this morning. We did it in 1:08. I didn't need a walk break until mile 5. I was pretty pleased with that since I had been sucking major eggs before we go to mile 3!!!!

88 miles in June. Not bad considering I'm still nursing my left knee and trying hard NOT to have foot issues.

Ran and walked 15 miles at Barton Creek this morning. New club member Tara Lusher and Linda Rust joined me.

Tara and her husband are training for the Palo Duro 50 mile in Oct and Linda will be running the Burning River 100 mile in Ohio next month.

We took it easy running nearly even splits for a total of 4hrs. Knee still achy. Gonna cook ribs for the very first time today and probably drink a bunch of beers!!

Ran 7 miles at LBL with Steve and Shan this morning. We saw the aftermath of a late 60yr old runner who probably weighed 130lbs getting the best of a 260lb guy on a bike in a collision. It happenned just west of the Pfluger bridge. When I was pulling out of the parking lot under mopac I saw the old runner finishing strong!! Very surreal!!

Walked 4 miles at Barton Creek from the Spyglass entrance this morning. I got up at 430....got to the trail at 515 and didn't feel much like running. So....I did the next best thing. I walked for 1:18. I walked where the kiddie train meets the LBL trail....walked back to the 1.5 marker and then back to the SG entrance.

430 is just too damn early to be getting up!!!

Got up early this morning and got in 6 easy miles at Barton Creek from the HOL. Knee a bit achy but thats okay. Cleared a bunch of spider webs for later runners.

Ran 7 miles at LBL with Mark and Shan this morning. The humidity was a killer. We ran it in 1:09. They would have been much closer to 1hr if not going slow with my big dumb ass.

June.....56

I got up early and got in a 7 miler at LBL this morning in 1:20. The tendons on the outside back of my knees are still a bit tender from our hike this past weekend so I got in a super easy run/ walk.

Tuesday I joined Gordon and the Tuesday evening running group for a 7 mile run. I felt good the first 50 min or so but lagged a bit the last few miles. Knee felt pretty good during the run but was hurting afterward.

This morning I ran the 7 mile loop at LBL with Shan and Mark. I talked a too much the first few miles and got myself in oxygen debt from which I never recovered. I ended up walking much of the last 2 miles. No biggie. Knee a bit painful but not too bad.

June.....26

Velocity.......26

Shan and I, or should I say I, had an excellent run this morning. "We" ran the 7 mile in 1:02:30. The reason I'm listing the entire time is because I ran 30 seconds faster than last week. Shan and Steve ran 58 last week!! That time even includes approximately 3 minutes of walking. I still can't believe I didn't do anymore walking than I did. The last 2 miles were PAINFUL!! I was hurting so freakin bad but I made it thru somehow.

Tuesday marked 12yrs of no cigarettes. During that time I've run over 13,000 miles and averaged just over 21 miles per week.

I'm so thankful for every mile I've run, all the time on the beautiful trails and for the good friends I've made along the way!! Truly amazing stuff!!

Ran 5 miles at my Hidden Trails yesterday afternoon in 1hr. Knee hurting.

May.....45

2010....413

Alltime....13176

Had an excellent run this morning with Shan, Mark and Steve at LBL. We ran the 7 mile loop. Mark and I slowed a bit around mile 3 and let Shan and Steve go. We still had an excellent time of 1:03:04!! Shan and Steve smoked in 58!! It was sooo good getting back out there with my peeps!!

My knee was achy and got pretty painful at times but my fitness obviously hasnt suffered greatly during my layoff. I'm going to continue the strength training and hope for the best.

Ran and walked for 1:25 at Ken's in Bull Creek. I think it's around 6 miles. I did a lot of walking......recieved a couple of phone calls. I did some adventuring and checked out some new trails. Some of the trails along the ridge are a bit treacherous which made it even more fun. The left knee was a bit achy but no big deal. Planning on getting another run this evening somewhere in the Barton Creek area.

I had a very good 10 miler yesterday at Barton Creek. I ran from the HOL and did the 10 mile loop in 2:20. I was a out of gas a bit at the end but expected that since I forgot to bring any gels.

My 12yr battle with shoes and their setup continues. Friday I got a pair of Vasque Velocity's in the mail I had ordered. They felt a bit big so I cut a pair of extra Cascadia insoles I had in half and put them in the forefoot of the shoe along with the Spenco inserts I've been using for years. That has always been my routine since I've been using the inserts......cut the insole that comes with the shoe in half, stick that in the forefoot and then slip the Spenco insert on top. That makes for a little overlap which has usually worked fine.

Well, after cutting the insoles, putting them in the Velocity's I realized I had never done that with the Cascadia's for some reason. The Casacadia's are easily the most comfortable shoe I've ever worn. But it seems the Cascadia's have been the cause of my recent PF problems. I'd like to make them work though. I'm not sure how many miles I've got on my current Cascadia's but I'd guess 200-250. So, for yesterdays run I ran in the Cascadia's with the inserts and the forefoot insoles and lo and behold no knee pain....no PF problems (and, I've experienced renewed PF problems in the recent past when I'd go back to the Cascadia's for a SINGLE run).

One negative thing that I've experienced in the past with this setup reaappeared yesterday. The cutup sole insert doesnt stay put. The right one kept slipping down toward my arch. I had to adjust the right foot 4 or 5 times and the left one twice during the run. I need to figure that out but it's a small price to pay to be able to run pain free. I still plan to try a pair of the Soles that Shan is sold on. But it seems I've found a way to make the Cascadia's work. I've got a year to return the Velocity's so no rush there.

May.....27

Ran a really good 7 miler yesterday at Barton Creek from the Spyglass entrance. My left knee felt pretty good most of the way and I was encouraged about my fitness level. If I can get my knee situation turned around soon I'll be back in great shape soon. I'm also growing more accustomed to wearing the long sleeve shirt and it is actually quite pleasant after is gets sweaty. The water at long creek crossing was mid-thigh for me yesterday and felt great!!

Got in approximately 5 miles at Ken's yesterday afternoon. At the beginning of the run I decided I was gonna go the old Ken's route until I hit the property line of the people who shut it down. Sure enough there is a big fence and gate totally blocking the trail. So, I took a side trail that lead back to 360 and down a very steep embankment...and down onto the main trail really close to the low water crossing. I ran toward Spicewood Springs, took the trail over to Old SSPRS, crossed the creek and ran back towards Lakewood. I loved running this trail after having not run it in a very long time. It sort of felt like I was hanging out with an old friend. Even with Ken's trail closed I'll still be able to get in a good hour of running and not do any out and backs. The bonus is that it's really close to home!!

My knee was still achy but not as bad.....I must have done a pretty good job of pounding it into submission. I did go to Academy yesterday evening and purchase a new pair of inserts to start wearing in lieu of getting a new pair of shoes soon

Okay....did an easy 5 yesterday from the HOL and my damn knee hurt right from the start. I've been pretty consistent doing the strengthening exercise Shan suggested but to no avail. Oh well, I suppose I'm going to keep running and pound it into submission....the Ultra way!!!

I really think it's the Asics or something bio-mechanical. It came out of nowhere right after the run in Smithville. I'm going to get a new pair of Vasque Velocity's soon and a new insert from Academy before I really panic.

I'm really starting to look forward to my trip to the Guadalupe Mtns the weekend of June 12th. Although I'm still not sure who I'm going with...Sam V or Jacob. It's going to be a blast regardless. One thing I am a bit concerned about though is the heat. I've definitely got to start getting in some afternoon runs and walks now to get acclimated.

May.....5

Ran and walked 5 miles yesterday on my special 360 trails in around an hour. My damn left knee was achy again during and after so I iced and, I've decided I'm gonna lay off of it for 2 weeks and let it heal. It feels like a meniscus issue. I've suffered from this before. It should heal itself if I can lay off for a while.

April....77

2010....368

Ran the 4 and 3 mile loops at LBL this morning in 1:06. I felt pretty good. I did a sort of fartlek with some fairly fast running mixed in with some walking.

My knee felt better with the ache shifting from the left side to above the kneecap so that tells me it's really nothing to worry about. I tried to focus on good running posture....getting good knee lift etc...

April....72

2010....363

I ran and walked the 7 mile loop at LBL this morning in 1:15. Not too bad considering how much I walked and the long detour around the bridge over Waller Creek.

My knee is still achy and I still don't have much zip......although my time this morning really doesnt reflect that. That time also includes my cool down walk across the footbridge.

Not too sure if my achy knee is being caused by my new shoes or possibly my chiro adjustment weeks ago......just trying to figure it out.

April....65

2010....356

Ran the 7 mile LBL loop with Steve this morning in 1:06. We had a good run even though my left knee still has a weird ache going on. I'm sure it's one of those things that's going to pass.

April....58

2010....349

Ran 6 miles this morning at Barton Creek from the HOL. Left knee still feels a bit weird. Not sure what to make of that. I had a good run this morning though. I mostly walked down the HOL to get in a good warmup. I really need to start getting in one afternoon run a week to start getting acclimated to the heat.

I think I've definitely decided that there are no more 100 mile runs in my future. The thought of the pressure of staying awake thru the night and getting in the training are just not appealing to me anymore.

I'm gonna stick with 100k's, 50 milers and 50K's. I would like to travel and do some of the 100k's around the country like Miwok and Coyote 2 Moon too.


April....51

2010....342

Got in an easy 5 miler at Barton Creek yesterday after work. I still had dead legs and not much zip but that's not unusual for a Thursday afternoon. However, I do think I'm still recovering from HH's

April....45

2010....336

Ran the 7 mile loop at LBL yesterday morning with Shan and Mark in 1:08. Still feeling a bit sluggish from Saturday.

April.....40

2010.....331

I DNF'd at 33 miles at Hell's Hills last Saturday. I was in good shape for a simple finish or even 13hrs or so but I burned myself up trying to go under 11hrs.

April....33

2010....324

Shan, Steve and I ran the 7 mile loop at Lady Bird Lake this morning in 1:04. I felt like a log full of water. I've been eating way too much during the day....bagels with cream cheese...turkey and cheese sandwiches on rye. I need to chill on the chow during the day because however much or little I eat during the day I'm going to eat a full dinner.

Anyway, just working on getting my head right for the 50 miler Saturday. Thunderstorms are predicted Friday evening but the forecasters say it'll be gone by morning.

Even after bailing on runs Saturday and yesterday I still had a good month for me at 132. I'm just short of 100 miles a month this year too!!

March......132

2010......291

So much for another easy day. Steve and I ran the Lady Bird 7 miler in 1:05. I told him I'm doing my 2 runs next week alone to ensure I can take it easy.

I'm still not sure what to think about how I'll do next weekend in Smithville. I really wish I had gotten in a 130+ mile month in Feb. If I had I'd be feeling much better than I do now.

But....thankfully everything has fallen into place for a good March. Right now it looks like I'll get in 146 miles this month which is super good.....for me.

I've decided not to run the Cactus Rose 100. I've decided that between trying to get Misty's back squared away and some possible remodeling this summer I really won't have the energy to focus on the 100 like I'd need too.

I'll still aim for running a good 50 mile in Bandera and also the Rick Gastelum 50 mile that I host on Sep 25.

That'll give me 3 Ultra's this year. All 50 milers too!!! Not to bad considering all the issues at the start of the year.

March.....125

2010.....284

Today I had planned on an easy day but the whip cracker (Shan) had other plans. We took a walk break up the hill on Riverside and then slowed to a trot for the last 3/4 of a mile when she refused a short walk break and still ran 1:04 for the 7 mile loop. We might have been under an hour if not for the walk!!

So much for an easy run and time on feet. Tomorrow morning WILL be an easy run.

Within 40 minutes of posting my shoes on the HCTR email this morning I had 3 takers. Ryan Beard was first but they ended up being a half size to small so I'm going to hook up with Larry King and sell them to him.

March.....118

2010.....277

Had an excellent run today!! I finally knocked off all 5 loops at Lady Bird Lake!! I've been wanting to that for years!! The bonus is that I did it 5:30!! I really felt like I held back pretty well on the 10 miler to get started but my time was 1:50, so that got me kind of pumped and I just kept it up. 17 miles was around 3hrs. At that point I knew I had sub 6 for sure.

My feet are beat the fuck up though. So far the La Sportiva Fireblades experiment is a failure. They have absolutely zero padding and they beat the hell out of the ball of my right foot today after only 17 miles......and I had taken 2 vitamin I's after 10. I also took 3 more vitamin I's when I got home. So, I can imagine what it would feel like if hadnt taken the drugs.

Anyway, after returning the first Fireblades I've got 105 bucks invested so I've got to figure out a way to make them work.

March....111

2010....270

I got in another 10 this morning at LBL. I started at 530am, ran the 3 mile loop and then another 7 with Shan and Mark Lindsey. My overall time was 1:46.

Very, very happy with back to back weekday 10 milers. Not sure I've ever done that before. If I have it's been a long time.

Looking forward to our mini class/ school reunion this evening at The Dog and Duck Pub. I'm all set to sleep at the office tonite because I know I'll have about zero self control after the first pint.

March.....83

2010.....242

Shan and I met at 5am at Lady Bird Lake and ran 10 miles. Shan forgot a hat and rain jacket and me being a non-chivalrous prick I didnt give her mine.

A couple of miles into the run we were busting it at a pretty good clip so I suggested we just get in the 7 mile to get done and get out of the weather.

Boy were we busting it.....we ran it in 1:01:30!! That's my fastest 7 miler in a long time. It was just 6:00 so I suggested we do the 3 mile real easy and Shan agreed. Our overall time was around 1:39....1:40.....within seconds of my 10 miler last Tue.

I'm shooting for another 10 tomorrow morning because I'm gonna give my liver a good soaking later in the evening at The Dog and Duck for St Paddy's Day.


March.....73

2010.....232

My mindset for my long run yesterday was to have NO plan. Just go out and run 4.5 hrs. It worked great!!

I started by running the trails up the road to the right of the HOL. Those trails took me down to the dam in about 25 min. The dam was uncrossable so I continued down and crossed at the Grotto. The water was knee deep. About the time I got to the Overlook on the Travis Country side Naresh called and insisted on bringing me tacos. It took me about 40 min to get back down, cross the creek and get back to the HOL. Naresh got there a few minutes after me and we chatted for about 15 min while we ate our tacos.

We parted and I took the trail down the HOL to Rudy's only to roll my left ankle pretty badly less than 5 min after my restart. I knew right away I should NOT continue and turned and walked back up the hill. I got to my car and realized I was still energized so I decided to head over to LBL and run the 7 mile loop. It only took me a few steps to realize it was not a good idea. On the way home I stopped and bought 2 bags of ice. When I got home I put my bare foot in the bottom of the bucket and dumped most of the bag of ice on it. After icing it again later in the afternoon my ankle seems like it'll be okay. Although I'm probably off the trails until Hell's Hills.

March....63

2010....222

Shan and Steve and I did 3 Jester repeats for a total of 5 miles this morning. I hope I recover quicker than 2 weeks ago. I've got an excellent week going so far. Next run will be 7 miles Fri morning.....maybe on some trails. I've been getting in more than enough Lady Bird and asphalt lately.

March....50

2010....209

Ran 10 miles at LBL this morning in 1:39:40. I usually round my times up or down but I was working hard to get that sub 1:40 from about mile 4!!

I ran in my new La Sportiva Fireblades this morning too. They are a bit short on cushioning. I think they designed them that way to force runners to more of a mid-foot or fore-foot foot strike. Anyway, that's what I'm gonna shoot for.

Feeling really good about getting in a 10 for my first run of the week. And the huge bonus is that since I wasn't too hung over I got my plumbing work done Sunday that I was gonna do this coming Saturday. So....I get to run long again with nothing hanging over my head I need to be home for on Saturday.


March....45


2010....204

Ran 15 miles at Barton Creek Saturday in 3:35. The goal was 20+ but I started feeling a hotspot on my left big toe. I seriously considered pushing on but quickly realized I might be doing more harm than good.

I took almost 2 hrs for the 1st 7 miles because I took a camera with me for the 1st time and went crazy taking pictures.

I think I got some good pics of Twin Falls and some other nice water pics along with a couple of good ones from the overlook!!

I'll HAVE to get in a good long day on the 20th now for sure!!

March....35

2010....194

Got in a nice easy 7 mile at LBL this morning in 1:11. I must have maintained a fairly fast running pace because I included 3 fairly lengthy walk breaks.

I had planned on 10 this morning but ended up needing to be to work earlier than usual. That's okay though, I've had a really good week of running so far.

I HAVE to get in a minimum 20 miles tomorrow!!

Mar....20.5

2010....179.5

Ran 7.5 miles this morning with Shan. We ran it 1:13 but that included a 2 block cool down walk. I'm so ready for warmer weather to be here.

impending pain
mind over....what
mind over mind
put it out
no embrace
pain
mind over body
finish


Mar....13.5

2010....172.5

Got in a 6 mile run this morning from my office. I zigzagged up and down West Ave., Guadalupe, Nueces and San Antonio to 5th street in approximately 1 hour.

I'm not real happy with my January miles but if I can get in a good long run this Saturday and again on the 20th I shouldn't suffer too much in the 50 mile next month.

March....6

2010....165

Ran the 7 mile Mo-Pac to I35 loop at Lady Bird this morning in 1:10. I ran at a pretty good pace and got in a couple of good walk breaks. My time includes a cool down walk across the footbridge. No residual soreness from the hill repeats yesterday.

I'm really going to try to get in another 7 tomorrow morning. That's going to be a bit tough because I'll have to be packed up for our trip to Houston when I leave the house tomorrow morning.



Feb....102

2010....158

Steve and I did 3 Jester hill repeats for a total of 5 miles this morning!! It took us almost exactly an hour.

Pretty excited about starting some hill training towards Cactus Rose. Today sort of makes it feel official.

Yesterday morning I mentioned to Misty that I was thinking of moving down to the 50k at Hell's Hills. She encouraged me to stick with the 50 mile even if I'm super slow. That's all I needed to hear. I love her!!


Feb....95

2010....151

Got in another 4 miles today. I wanted to take advantage of the gorgeous weather!!


Feb....90


2010....146

Got in 14 miles at Barton Creek. Had planned on getting in 21 but had enough of the muck and cashed it in. Physically I felt good and my time was 3:05. I'm so ready for the weather to clear up.

Feb....86

2010....142

Had a good 7 mile run with Steve and Shan. We started at the 1st St parking lot and ran Longhorn Dam around Lamar and back in 1:07. The consensus opinion is that loop is longer than 7 miles. Our time did not reflect our effort at all.

Continuing to wear the boot at nite.....brought a frozen water bottle to roll my foot several times during the day. I'll also be rolling my foot with the TP ball frequently.

Feb....72

2010....128

Ran the 7 mile Mopac- I35 loop at Lady Bird this morning. It was freaking cold!!! I didn't bust it too hard....running and walking it in 1:11 including a cool down walk on the footbridge under Mopac. It was a good "time on feet" workout.

Physically everything is feeling okay except for my right plantar. It won't seem to go away. I do need to roll it more often and I did sleep with the boot last nite. I'm going to continue with the boot for a while. I'm hoping it's the shoes (Brooks Cascadia. I hadn't a problem in years until I started wearing them. I pulled the trigger on some La Sportiva's today. Mark Lindsey raves about them so I'm hoping they workout well.

So far so good this week with the higher mileage....and the forecast now has NO rain for Thursday morning!!!


Feb...65

2010...121

Ran 7 miles downtown from my office to LadyBird in 1:10. Good run. Took it easy....mixed in some walking....good long cool down walk.

Feb...58

2010...114

Excellent workout this morning at my Mom's house.

5 sets of jumping jacks, abs and pushups

300 jumping jacks

110 reps of abs

65 pushups

Got in an early 7 miler with Sam V at Barton Creek this morning in around 1:30.

Really have to focus on a good higher mileage week next week!!

Ran 7 miles this morning from downtown and part of LadyBird Lake in 1:08 with Shan and Steve.

Thankfully, it was just cold and NOT RAINY. The time is a bit slow because we had fairly lengthy stops at 1st and 15th streets for red lights and.....Shan's shoe came untied twice. I love it when that happens!!!

I asked Steve to pace me the 4th loop at Cactus Rose. He said he'd give it some thought. I also emailed Doug, Shan's main squeeze, to see if he would pace me the 3rd loop.

On our run this morning we talked about easing into some Jester repeats to get my body ready for the hills at Bandera.

The mental prep begins NOW!!

Plans are to run 10-12 miles with Sam tomorrow morning!!

Ran 7 miles this morning downtown. I started at our office, ran down to Lady Bird. Ran to Mopac then to Congress and back to the office in 1:10. Felt good. Pretty chilly morning.

I need to do the same thing tomorrow morning just in case I wimp out Thursday with the wintry mix the weather guys are predicting.

30 minutes of yoga this morning with Misty. I really need to start doing this regularly.

Ran 14 miles at Barton Creek in 3:04 from the HOL. I was expecting to have the trail all to myself today but when I drove up I was surprised to find there were already several cars parked.

It was Roger Davis and Michael Sawyer with a Jemez training group. There were several other peeps I knew. Murali, Bhavesh and David J.

I ended up running most of the way with Murali and a guy named John who seen at races.

It was a very good run!!

Ran 10 miles this morning at Lady Bird. Did the first 7 with Shan and Steve in 1:03:32. We got a water refill, walked across the footbridge under Mopac then I ran the 3 mile loop alone. Total time was 1:43:50.

Not bad for being my 2nd run in 2 weeks. I was super pleased with the first 7, considering I talked pretty much the whole way and stayed in oxygen debt.

Also......seriously considering doing the Cactus Rose 100 on Oct 30. Lots to consider with this one. Runners provide all their own aid except ice and water.....and I would need at least 1 pacer and a crew (Misty) and hopefully a couple of other peeps. AND...it's a bitch. This would easily be the hardest run I've lined up for!!

We'll see.

First run in almost 2 weeks. Ran Lady Bird from the zero marker at the 1st St parking lot east to Pleasant Valley....Longhorn Dam and back to 1st St. 6 miles in a shade over 1 hour.

Good to be back running now if the weather will cooperate some. No biggie though, I'll have to get out in it. Lost 140 bucks the last 2 months due to not being able to run in events I've signed up for. The super cold weekend got my Bandera 100k and my Dad's passing caused me to miss the Rocky Raccoon 50 mile this Saturday.

Oh well, time to look ahead. I've got 2 months to get ready for Hell's Hills 50 miler in Smithville. Looking forward to getting in a good long run.

Going to San Antonio tomorrow morning to be with my Mom, sister and brother in law to meet with hospice for my Dad. Very upsetting shit.....we watched our fav show tonite....Bones....gonna listen to some music and drink some beer....Misty and her family are so incredibly supportive. Done a bunch of crying....good thing....he was a good man....volunteered for his country during WW2 after his older brother was killed....worked civil service for 27yrs.....raised 8 kids....my sister and i weren't his.....anyway, this is a running blog.

He doused water on the dry cement of my running and made it a permanent part of my life. He and I coming together seems meant to be. I was already a voracious track historian when he met my Mom in the late spring of '73. It was the summer before 7th grade, Paavo Nurmi, Emil Zatopek, Billy Mills, and Jim Ryun were already my heroes. The spring of '74 he started taking me to varsity track meets in the Harlandale School District....and that was it for me. The magic and simplicity of track got it's complete hold on me and hasn't let go of me!! Thanks Dad, I love you!

Had an excellent run with Shan and Steve this morning. Our routine is to start at the footbridge under Mopac and run the 7 mile loop around I35. Shan, Mark Lindsey and I started this around Sep. '09. Along the way Steve Frederick has become a regular and a good friend. We've also had various other people join us as well but no one has stuck like Steve.

We did our run this morning in 1:03:11. It was our fastest this season. That time included a stop at the zero marker for a drink and Shan's shoe came untied along the way too. So....with our stops accounted for we had a really good run and we finished strong actually picking up the pace the last .5 mile or so!!

Trying to figure out how I feel about Ultrarunning not being such a unique thing anymore. The number of people running Ultra's has exploded.

The two Rocky Raccoon events are going to cap at 750. I would never have thought in a million years those kind of numbers would be out there running.

Those numbers make it seem like a big city marathon with all the bells and whistles, instead of the low key intimate thing it seems like it used to be.

I've always had a voice in my head saying," Shouldn't I be running for the sake of running.....not to feed my ego with sheer numbers of races finished, or to have a time goal for a race".

I'm torn

Rethinking the Bandera 50k 50yr age group thing for next year. A 50 yr old gentleman ran 5:36 this year. Oh well....

My last 2 runs have been blasts from the past. After running Forest Ridge and St Eds at Bull Creek Monday afternoon I ran 3 miles out and back at Barton Creek from the pool parking lot.

I'm not sure how many thousands of miles I've ran from the trailhead there but it's a bunch.

I stopped at Rick's spot on the way out to remind him I'm still out running and not forgetting about him. I so miss him!!

If I can stay healthy and focused I'm thinking I may shoot for the 50yr age record for the Bandera 50k next year. It'll take the full year to get ready to run a 5:40 out there. It'd be nice after paying dues in this sport for 10 years to have my name up on a record, at least for a while!!

Ran 7.5 miles on Forest Ridge and St Eds yesterday afternoon at Bull Creek in 1:35.

No running over the weekend. The nursing home my Stepdad is in called early Saturday to let my Mom know they were sending him to the ER. A nurse at the ER called with a diagnoses of pneumonia. They told Mom to hurry over to the ER to discuss DNR options. WTF!!

When we got to the hospital around 4pm Mom had just approved them using dopamine to raise his BP. An hour later the dopamine wasn't working and the decision was made to send him to ICU. The ICU Dr had a very sobering talk with us confirming their DNR decisions.

By the time we left the hospital at 9pm they had gotten his BP up to 103/65.

Thursday

Ran the 7 mile loop at Lady Bird with Shan and Steve this morning. We did it in 1:04:45. We had a good run, finishing strong. Temp was 49ish and we dodged most of the rain the forecasters were talking about.

Kudos to Steve for finishing 1st Male Master in the 25k at Bandera this past weekend. I've been looking at the age records for Bandera.......the 50 yr old (I can't believe I'm even writing about going for a 50 yr age group record) 25k record is somewhat within reach if I can push away from the table....and.....focus on some core and speed.

Rainy 20 mile planned for Saturday

Tuesday

Had a good run with the Tuesday evening running group.....fairly speedy run.....cold, slippery creek crossing. I think I felt better running this evening because I ran yesterday....just a feeling.