Virtual Running Buddies -- Week of Nov. 9

[TKay]

I kept waiting for someone to start the new thread. I don't feel like I'm enough of a veteran to start it. :rolleyes:
Had a 45 minute TM run today. Did not feel so good until close to the end when the spring finally returned to my step. Breaking my routine really jacks me up. I'm still planning to do a 5K on Sunday. Not sure what I'll do tomorrow--if much of anything.
Making homemade pizza with the family tonight. Bobby Flay's pumpkin soup tomorrow. It's going to be a yummy weekend.
How's kicks for everyone else? Oh, and happy Friday!

[Leslie Ferguson]

TKay - Thanks for starting the thread this week. There's no need to be an "experienced poster" to start - IMO it just has to be someone who got the first reportable run in. Congrats going 45 min on the TM. If it were me, I'd probably not run tomorrow and would also hesitate riding but my do walking before a 5k. Pumpkin soup sounds yummy. :D

Gray day here it's been raining off and on all day which is just another reason to not run today. The second is that I'm running 10/11 tomorrow in Richmond pacing a friend in his marathon. Good to take another rest day on a yucky day.

Happy Friday, happy weekend, and fleet feet to all.
Les

[Elizabeth B]

Hello, all!

TKay - Thanks for getting us started! It's great that you jumped in to do that - sometimes I think we're all waiting/hoping for someone else to start us off. I'm excited about your 5K - I hope you have a great time (and give us a blow-by-blow account afterwards)!

Les - Have fun pacing in the Richmond marathon! You're quite the go-to guy for marathon pacing these days.

mgs - I've been to SF a couple of times, but haven't actually run there. I envy the runners I see out while I'm there because SF has so many beautiful running-friendly areas. I can't believe you were last with a 55-something time for a 5-mile run, BTW. Around here, you would have been around the back of the middle of the pack with that time.

Speaking of running, where have I run? Nashville TN (of course), Virginia Beach, Duck NC, Hendersonville NC, Florida, Louisville KY, Las Vegas, Edisto Island SC - that's all I can think of now.

It's been a crazy week around here. CMA (Country Music Awards) week is always a busy time in Nashville - very exciting, but I'm glad it's over. Things should start to quiet down next week. I did manage to get in a couple of good runs and some strength training and have a planned run with a friend tomorrow.

That's it for me - take care, all!

[VictoriaL]

Happy Friday! :D

Tkay the mention of pumpkin soup makes my mouth water... thanks for the idea... ;)

Les good luck in Richmond!

Betsy have a good run tomorrow. I'm sure it's warmer there than here. Alas.

I haven't run since Monday because it was an unusually busy week and I was having some pretty nasty back pain earlier in the week. It seems to have cleared up but, in trying to figure out the reason, I discovered that one of the causes may be running. :( So I went out for only 40 minutes today and am crossing my fingers that my back pain is only "normal" tomorrow and not the intense pain I had a few days ago.

It was quite cool out late this afternoon. Let me ask you all (in the cooler climates, of course) a question. I have asked Santa for an MP3 player for Christmas so I don't have to continue to carry my Walkman when I run. Today I put the earbuds in then, in deference to the 46-degree temps and wind, ear warmers. Ouch! The warmers pushed the earbuds in pretty far and, although I tired to ignore the discomfort, I could only hear out of the left one if I kept my mouth open! :o Tell me, is there such a thing as ear warmers with integral earphones?

A weekend full of weatherstripping awaits me. Hope you all are having more fun!

[Kathy B]

Vicci, glad to hear your back was improved enough for you to get a run in today. Why do you think the pain may be caused from running? Good luck with your weather stripping....it will be good to get it done!

Les, hope the rain is gone in time for your run tomorrow!

Elizabeth, did you go to any events related to the CMA? Run into any celebrities? ;) Of course, living in Nashville, that is probably not uncommon....

Tkay, wishing you good weather for your 5K as well. Is it supposed to be nice?

mgs, I was thinking the same as Elizabeth about your 5 mile time. You must have been in a really fast race!

Melissa, have a great time in CHICAGO! :) Sounds like fun.

Did an easy 40 min on the TM today. Trying to ease back into things. Tomorrow DS is auditioning for the All District band. He is very excited about it, so hopefully it will all go well. DD is staying home and writing essays to apply for some GS trips she wants to go on next summer. You can apply for up to 4, and then there is a selection process. One trip is to Hollywood for a film making event, one to Georgia for 10 days of riding horses through the Appalachian mountains, and one for a rock climbing/rapelling trip in Palm Springs. Girl Scouts really has changed, hasn't it? :D

Have a great weekend everyone!

[VictoriaL]

Vicci, glad to hear your back was improved enough for you to get a run in today. Why do you think the pain may be caused from running?

It was just a guess. The pain was so much better on Tuesday thru Friday and the only thing that I did out of the ordinary was not run! Oh, also, I was on my feet for 6 hours straight on Tues., but I figured that didn't cause my back not to hurt. Same ratio of sitting-standing during the days, same stretches in the mornings, etc. But I really hope that I'm wrong! And that's why I took an easy run today. (fingers crossed)

Also, thanks for the info on mixing meds from my question on the other stuff thread. I ended up doing it and got a great night sleep. I hate taking medications, but sometimes it's just necessary.

[mgs]

nothing for me today - but plan on getting runs in both days this weekend. I want to go in the morning and see how I feel. The 2 mid day runs I have done haven't been too bad but the evening run felt much better - which really shocked me.

As far as the 55:55 being last place = that was a good 13 years ago and I think most of the avg runners were a little scared off of doing races. I didn't know any better :p As I was writing it I was thinking - hey I am not much faster than that now and I am definitely middle of the pack these days. Well - 2 years ago is really what I mean. I think my quickest was the 10k I did in Phx and my goal was to get in under an hour and I just barely did. That was FAST for me.

Got my bib in the mail for my 5k today. Do they still do chips on the sneaker or just pull the tab on the bottom of the bib? I don't have my chip anymore...

I am so glad everyone added the fun places they have had a run...

Les - I thought that you would add running the perimeter of a ship in the middle of some sea. I remember when DH was in The Nav :p his Ex-O used to run around the ship when they were deployed. (I had such a crush on that guy! ha ha)

TKay - no run tomorrow! good luck with the 5k on sunday. I will be thinking of you! Pumpkin soup sounds really good, esp since DS has been devouring it lately which is neat b/c he is in the 'refusing just for the sake control' phase with food. I have been buying it, though. Let me know how hard it is to make.

every one else - have a great weekend I have to run to finish the laudry. Fun friday night stuff!!

[Leslie Ferguson]

The 2 mid day runs I have done haven't been too bad but the evening run felt much better - which really shocked me.

every one else - have a great weekend I have to run to finish the laudry. Fun friday night stuff!!
It sounds like you're getting back into things and I hope you get both runs in this weekend.
Les - I thought that you would add running the perimeter of a ship in the middle of some sea. I remember when DH was in The Nav :p his Ex-O used to run around the ship when they were deployed. (I had such a crush on that guy! ha ha)
I'm not sure how I forgot that. The most memorable run that I took part in was "Running the Ditch" when they Aircraft Carrier I was on did a 10k on the flight deck while the ship was transiting the Suez Canal (many, many years ago). I did some running on our flight deck from time to time but most of my ships weren't big enough to run like that so I was a TM person then.

I'd love to chat but up really early to drive south (was late when I got home and traffic was terrible so I'm going to drive down early tomorrow).

Happy trails,
Les

[SusanMac]

Victoria - Yes, they do make those! I got them for DH last Xmas. They are made by 180's (who also make regular earmuffs, and earmuffs for cyclists) I got them at Sharper Image, but I'd bet they're more widely available this year. Not cheap, unfortunately. http://www.sharperimage.com/us/en/catalog/product/sku__OE500

TKay - Thx for starting us off. Run. No run. New. Old. We don't care who starts. We're = opportunity around here. Good luck on your 5K tomorrow. I'm very excited for you, and having the whole family there for support!

Elizabeth - I hadn't realized that the CMA awards would impact the locals so much. Too funny.

mgs - You've lived & run in some fun places! Does work have you move around often, or is that just a choice?

It's been fun reading where everyone has run! I love running whenever I travel, so my list is long, too. Houston, Austin, Dallas, San Diego, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, SF, Cincinnatti, Seattle, Boulder, Denver, Colo Spgs, WI, Iowa, Mpls, Chicago, Quebec City, Boston, NYC, Philadelphia, Melbourne & Panama City FL, Atlanta, Barcelona, Berlin, Switzerland, New Zealand, Melbourne Australia.

Les - Good luck at the marathon. Are you pacing the same pace as last time? Or do you have to alter your pace? I'd think that would be harder.

No run yesterday. And I slept in today just because :-) Off for a chilly Bode walk. I think I might take one more day of rest from training. My first winter season run w/my rowing club is tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to it, but it's supposed to rain. Raking leaves is all done, so my x-training for today is installing windows :-)

Hi to Nat, Kathy, Seathyme, and the rest o' the gang. Wonder what's new with Aggie??

[seathyme]

Les, how'd it go today? I hope you had fun and the pacee was pleased; she was lucky to have your support.

TKay, good luck tomorrow!

msg, I am not a frequent racer at all so others may correct me, but what I've experienced is you get your chip with registration, then take it off and return it after you cross the line. Maybe it depends on the size/budget of the race.

Reporting a run this morning. Approx 5.5 miles, around Fresh Pond in Cambridge. Lots of dogs there in a friendly off-leash environment. I didn't bring the Rockster though, because the total 5.5 miles (only 2.5 is actually around the pond; the rest is to and from home) would have been a stretch for him and I worry about his joints. But it was a good distraction to see so many friendly dogs trotting along the path.

Major work day tomorrow so that's it for weekend running here. Hi to all~~

[Elizabeth B]

Hello all!

Vicci- I'm glad your back is feeling better, but hate that it's bothering you. Have you been lifting weights lately? If it's definitely from running, try to keep your shoulders loose when you run. I have a couple of running friends who tend to tense their shoulders when they run (especially when it's cold outside). Have you tried those heat pack things on your back? - I had back problems last year (from lifting weights), and they made my back feel so much better.

Kathy B - I went to a couple of events this past week, but not the CMAs themselves. I was offered tickets for $330 each, which was a little too much for me to spend. We do see "celebrities" around here frequently, country music and otherwise. I've seen them at the gas station, at the grocery store, at dance recitals, at restaurants, etc., but it's kind of a Nashville code not to say anything to them. The only local celebrities I've ever seen get a lot of attention are the Titans players - we go bonkers over them.

Susan - I love hearing that you sleep in, take rest days, etc. Not only do you motivate the rest of us to "go for it", but you also motivate us to take care of ourselves!

Today's run went really well - it's a tough run with tons of hills. It kicked my butt but now that it's over, I can say it went well. Tomorrow is a Titans game, which is always exciting.

That's it for now - I look forward to reading our racer's (and pacer's) reports!

[VictoriaL]

Susan, thank you for the information. Luckily, Christmas is coming! :)
And installing windows is a perfect x-training for this time of year.

Les how'd it go?!

Betsy nice run! Butt-kickin' hills and all...
I lift weights 2-3 times a week and don't think that's the problem. How shall I count the problems? Moderate scilosis, 2 degenerating discs, beginnings of arthritis in my lower back area, and the most problematic of all, si joint dysfunction on one side (due to the uneven pressure on my back from the curved spine). yeesh.

The pain was back when I got up this morning, but mild. I'm thinking that, maybe on Monday, I try walk-run intervals since perhaps the jarring of my body as I run (even though I'm on "softer" trails rather than pavement) is causing this.

DH is trying to talk me into starting the exercise bike and continuing it through winter, but I do so enjoy my trails. :( I find the EB utterly boring...

Hope you're all having a nice weekend!

[Leslie Ferguson]

msg - If you see this before your race (not likely) it does depend on the race and the level of interest by the local racing community. In Norfolk most of the races, even 5k, use chips at least at the finish line. Lots of race directors find chips are a lot faster to post results (something most folks in races want to know). But there still are a few races in Norfolk that take the tear strip from the bottom of your number. I hope your race goes well.
seathyme - sounds like a good run this morning for you - 5.5 miles on a crisp New England day is a great thing.
Susan - My heroine - sleeping in. :D There's hope for me still isn't there.
Betsy - Great job running hills - I love them up here (really I do). Even when they try to stop my heart. Hope the Titans do well tomorrow.
Vicci - Run/walk can do wonderful things for joints that protest a little when you run. In my case it's an arthritic ankle that hurts a lot if I run too often, too fast, or too far. I found that an amazing amount of "non-pounding" occurs when I walk just 30 seconds every 8-8:30. I know what you mean about liking the train and not the EB because I'm about ready to be forced inside for rides except on the weekends - it's just not light enough long enough (sunset is about 5 pm or earlier now) - so my stand is getting ready to go up in the basement.

Today's race: the conditions were fabulous for marathoning - made me wish I was running the full marathon today. It was about 40 degrees with a nice breeze from the North and overcast but NO RAIN in sight. Besides the conditions I'd be willing to skip the last part of the race in any other race I'm in (more later). From what I could tell a lot of folks were cruising through the race and I could hear that lots of PRs were broken today but not for the guy I was pacing. Answering Susan, the pace was faster this week than for MCM. We were supposed to (I'll expound a little later) be going at 3:45 pace (~8:36) and MCM was 4:00 pace (9:09). Frankly, either pace is doable for me, especially in a shorter run - 13 two weeks ago and 10+ today. The hardest part is establishing my pace from the outset. One bonus for picking up someone in the middle of the race - they are pretty set on their pace and I've had an opportunity to warm up a little and figure about what the pace feels like. Still it takes 2-3 miles to fine tune things. As for the race, one of our team (for Betsy: Rosemary - the one who broke her wrist earlier this year) requalified for Boston with 4:12. It ends up after reconstruction that Walter (the guy I pased) probably finished his race before I ever saw him on the course. He was supposed to be on a 3:45 pace but somehow he wanted to go at a 3:40 pace and was holding that pretty well until just before the half and was still ahead of a 3:45 pace from his chip time at the half. But he started laboring at about 20 and started fading a little more at 22. I was trying to coach him along and take his mind off the lack of energy. He really was trying to push himself and I was being very conscious to not run away from him or push him too hard - that would be disasterous. Anyway, as we passed 24 he decided he wanted to get water and walk - no biggie by this point in time because it was going to be a huge push to beat 3:45, doable but I didn't think we could pull it off as we were approaching 9 minute miles (or slower). Then the excitement hit about 1/4 - 1/3 mile later, I looked back and Walt looked like he was really laboring and he needed to either walk a lot or better yet stop. He was looking drunk. So I stopped and got him to stop and he wilted and got very disoriented. I held him up and got him off the course and with the help of a runner who wasn't running but cheering on the sidelines and another spectator, got him sorted out, rehydrated/electrolytes partially balanced, and better oriented (took about 10-15 minutes sitting on the side of the road). We took it easy and made sure his feet and faculties were with him and walked in slowly from there with another stop to massage out his calf that was completely knotted up (thank goodness for the massage techniques I know). Everything was fine and he walked to the finish with me (thankfully I had my long-sleeved shirt I was wearing to keep warm while waiting for him to run up or I would have been toast). It was weird and I was ready to call it if necessary, in fact at two times had people at the ready to get the closest medico if I didn't get a coherent response from him. In all, even though he was disappointed that he didn't do well in the race, by the time we parted company about an hour after the race he was himself again - a little sore but after getting some food and beverages in him (and getting warm after walking 2 miles in a wet shirt, hat, and gloves) he was fine.

Sorry that was so long but up until the last 2 miles the race was great, Walt was having a good time, I was loving my favorite race course (Richmond is a fast course that normally has perfect conditions), and it was a grand day for a run. And I got to see a bunch of my friends too. I think I'll keep pacing as long as I can - it's fun and a great challenge to me.

Time for bed though, I've been up since 4:45 this morning (19 hours now) and I'm bushed.

Until later... Happy trails,
Les

[SusanMac]

Les - wow! What an interesting race for you guys. I'm assuming this was all related to nutrition? Was he not drinking or taking in any calories at the aid stations, that you noticed? What a bummer that the last few miles were so rough for him. Hopefully he has a good attitude & just chalked it up to a learning experience.

TKay - Race report! Race report!

mgs - You said you got your race bib already....is this for the Run Wild? Man, they're organized! That's not for a few weeks yet. (I think I"m still in denial that the holidays are pretty much here!)

Quick check-in to report a one-hour run w/my winter running buddies. There were only 3 of us today, but I hadn't seen them in a while, so I really enjoyed catching up w/them. They are 2 older retired guys, but I really enjoy their company. This club has really allowed me to make friends w/people I probably wouldn't have connected with otherwise.

Last night, my IM training buddy took me to a party hosted by some members in her running club (not an official club, but quite a large group of people). Everyone was *so* nice. I might start running w/them on Thursday evenings. The party host has done tons of ultramarathons. I was interesting to look at all of his finisher medals/plaques from Badwater & other mega races. Wow.

Gotta go walk Bode now. He waited patiently aaaaalll morning long :-)

It's soup night tonight. That's how I can tell the temps have been dropping :-)

[Leslie Ferguson]

Susan - I think it was a combination of things - nutrition and energy stores. A lot could have been driven by the speed he ran at - he was on a pace 5 minutes overall faster than he had trained to run (3:40 not 3:45) and spent most of his stores early. It definitely wasn't a hydration issue because he was appropriately sweaty for 22 miles into the race but I think he was taking only water at the tables to go with gels. When he put a couple small bottles of Power Ade into himself he was better. I think he'll be ok in the long run and will be able to take the long view and learn from his race. Great running with your friends for an hour - sounds like fun.

For me, I rode for about 35 minutes in failing light. It's still warm enough with layers to ride but not much longer I'm afraid unless we can get rid of the leaves and I can ride my road bike - I was sticking to my mountain bike with a little stickier tires tonight.

Hope all are well and having a good Remembrance day/Veterans Day.

Happy trails,
Les

[TKay]

Sorry for the delay in posting. The 5K this morning was a blast. It was chilly (for me), in the 50s (I know, I know. For most of you, that's mild--or ever warm!). I don't have too many warmish running clothes and was concerned I'd either dress too warmly or not warmly enough. I guessed just right. I was surprised by how nervous I was even though my goal was just to have fun and participate. I was hoping to break the 30-minute mark and I finished in 30:50 (or so). I was happy about that. Dh and the boys came out--as did my sister. I wore the sign that said, "Running in memory of Moose" (the nickname for my late mother). On the 20th anniversary year of her death, it felt like a nice way to honor her.
I may have mentioned that dh was a big runner in a previous life (the life before his knees betrayed him). It was a crackup to hear him cheering me on from the sidelines: "Move up! Kick! Lengthen your stride!" It's like he's just itching for me to run the way he would. Made me laugh. The best part? My little kiddies yelling, "Mooooommmmyyyy!" And, from the 7-year-old, "Keep running, mom! Keep running!" I'm getting a little emotional just typing those words.
And now? I can't wait for the next one! I'm really happy that my 7-year-old REALLY wanted to run today and can't wait to do the turkey trot on Thanksgiving. The 5-year-old isn't so sure.

Les - I'm so glad to hear your race/pace report in all its detail. It's amazing that you can keep a steady pace and know what the heck that pace is. I had trouble today knowing how quickly I was running. It sounds like pacing is a great way for you to get in some amazing workouts too. Good going. Sorry about your buddy bonking a bit. I hope he recovers quickly. It's good he had you there to coach him through it.
Susan - Great that you have such good people to run with. I'd be interested in the ultramarathoner's achievements too. It's inspiring. Glad you have fun at the party. Feels like a soup night around here too.
Mgs - FWIW, they used chips at the race today. Handed them out with your number and then clipped them the moment you crossed the line. The race results were up FAST! Good luck with your race. I'm unclear. Did you mention when it is exactly? I'm a little foggy right now. :o
Victoria - I hope the run/walk combination does the trick for your back. It is so frustrating to WANT to do something and have your body refuse to cooperate. Hang in there.
Elizabeth - I'm impressed with the hill run. I'm an all-flats girl myself. :D
Seathyme - Your run sounds like so much fun. Good going. Hope your work day went well.

Quick food report. I made the pumpkin soup last night and it was spicy hot! It called for chipotle puree which I couldn't find during my minimal search. So I made my own. I think I'll halve the contribution next time because it really overpowered the recipe. Still, I'm looking forward to leftovers tonight. The fun part was that I made homemade rolls with the kids too. They loved punching down the dough and using the big KithenAid. When I told ds#1 that the rolls were really good, he commented, "Yeah, I'm becoming quite the baker!" Cracks me up.

Okay, I've blabbed enough. Thank you for all your support, everyone. I felt it out there while I was running today. :)

[Leslie Ferguson]

TKay - Thanks for your race report. Put a lump in my throat reading it. It must have been something having your kids rooting for you and I can imagine your DH out there coaching you on to the finish. Nerves are always something that's out there for a race whether it's your first or 100th race - my coach is always a little nervous before marathons and I think he's run something like 74 of them now. FWIW - 30:50 counts for 30 minutes in my book (in fact THE Boston Marathon credits for the whole minute and discards the seconds so 3:20:59 counts as a 3:20 marathon). It sounds like you've been bitten by the running bug too.

Pacing is something that intrigues me and I have a nice sense of rhythm and pace - I almost always have. I think it's part of my musical background. That and I've been running for almost 14 years now and have developed a sense of pace but it still takes time to gage during a race or run - too many variables including heat, humidity, and fatigue. I really like pacing too - keeps me in touch with my friends and gets me out on the race courses too.

Personal note - I signed up for the inaugural Historic Marine Corps Half Marathon in May yesterday. It should be a fun run and one of my classmates lives in Fredericksburg and we'll pass nearby her house so we may have a cheering squad.

See you tomorrow and peace,
Les

[TKay]

Les - That inaugural half sounds like a fantastic idea. Oh, I bet you'll really enjoy it. It's really nice having something that's in the not-too-distant future to look forward to. And running by your pal's house? What a blast. My neighbor keeps asking me about the half she's running in Feb. I'm hemming and hawing. During my 5K yesterday, I thought, "A half? Oh, I don't think so." LOL.

[mgs]

Well, completely forgot it was veterans day last time I checked in so I got 3 runs in this weekend instead of my predicted 2! It is going pretty well. I am pretty sure my current loop is just about 2.5 mi. It is so hard to guess with the different paths and loops in GG Park, but I looked on some program I found on line and I am pretty sure it is 2.5... in any event it is a respectable distance:p and no lights and sidewalks to worry about, and I don't have to drive there. ALL very important to me. If I have to drive I usually bail. :rolleyes:

Les, HAPPY VETERANS DAY! Thanks for the race report I was wondering how you do that. Are you trying to get him to go slower or faster or just stay the same throughout the whole race? Does he want a little more energy left for the big finale? to 'race' to the finish line? DH always says if you can race to the finish you didn't give it your all through the race... not sure I agree with that. Who doesn't have a burst of adrenaline when you see the finish line? Well, maybe not a marathoner......

TKay - loved your race report. GOOD FOR YOU! Your words got me a little misty, too. So does your older son run with you at all? What age can they start?

My race is actually the Sunday after Thankgiving. The Wild Run. They are VERY organized. They already sent me my bib... which is why I was wondering about the chip. I guess when I check in they will just give me my chip (if they are doing chips) and my T-shirt!! love that.:D

I love hearing the running reports for all over the country as it turns cold for some, just cooler for some, and stays the same for others. Interesting. It just gets a little cooler here, so I bought a couple long sleeved running shirts and that is it (already had the shorts/t's) I don't think I will need tights. I heat up fast so even when it is pretty cold I am ok in shorts and a couple layers up top.

Meg

[TKay]

Meg - Sounds like your running is going well. Good job. I can't remember if this has been mentioned before or not, but have you checked out mapmyrun.com? You can track your distance using it pretty easily. It's been helpful for me, making it easy to map out different routes. At this point, my kids don't run with me. I'm not sure when it's good for them to start. They used to ride bikes while I ran, but it became such a hassle coralling everybody that I stopped begging them to come. :rolleyes: When I was 5, 6 or 7, I had boundless energy. I don't understand the resistance!
Les - Meg reminds me I didn't comment on Veteran's Day either. Thank you for all your service. It does not go unappreciated.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les, HAPPY VETERANS DAY! Thanks for the race report I was wondering how you do that. Are you trying to get him to go slower or faster or just stay the same throughout the whole race? Does he want a little more energy left for the big finale? to 'race' to the finish line? DH always says if you can race to the finish you didn't give it your all through the race... not sure I agree with that. Who doesn't have a burst of adrenaline when you see the finish line? Well, maybe not a marathoner......
Thank you. Typically, if I'm pacing for a whole race I'd like to try for even splits. But in reality when I'm racing I shoot to be a little ahead at the half-way point and just try to come in on pace. In the case of Saturday, my goal was to keep my pacee on his projected pace and then if he has something left at the end then let him go for home (in the last 2-3 miles really). At the marathon distance it's typically hard enough just to even split let alone have anything left in for a big kick at the end - except for adrenaline. If I'm properly trained I'll feel a little easy at the beginning and spent by the finish - but that's me.
It just gets a little cooler here, so I bought a couple long sleeved running shirts and that is it (already had the shorts/t's) I don't think I will need tights. I heat up fast so even when it is pretty cold I am ok in shorts and a couple layers up top.
That's pretty typical for me. I'm ok in just shorts when it's not too cold but need a little extra up top. I think that's not too uncommon either.

Off to work so... happy trails,
Les

[seathyme]

Oooh, TKay, great report!! Sounds like such a wonderful experience for you and your family. (sniff) Of course you could do a half, if you decide you want to. Meanwhile, the Turkey Trot sounds like just the right next step, so to speak.

Les, wow. That guy was lucky to have your support. Pacing is a great way for you to use your natural talents to help people -- and get in a long run at the same time!:p

Meg, good job on the three runs. Ditto TKay's recommendation of mapmyrun.com. It has helped me figure out some otherwise unmeasurable routes around here.

Susan, I like the image of you running with your two retired guys. Bet they love having you along!;)

Vicci, your exercise bike reminds me of your funny post about an interminable ride spent staring at a blank wall. z-z-z-z-z-z I'm with you as far as staying outside as much as possible.

In fact, I try to run outdoors all winter; though as we've noted here before, when the wind chill gets down near zero F, and when it's so darn dark, it can be hard to get out there. In our new place I no longer have the cool little gym in the building that we had last year. Will have to decide whether to join a gym for the winter months.

Was going to run this morning, but wasn't feeling too well. Decided to play it safe and walk the dog instead. Hopefully tomorrow.....

Hello to all!

[SusanMac]

Checking in to report a good Bode trail run at the dog park yesterday. It's been a while since I've run 2 consecutive days, so my legs were a bit sore. So were Bode's....he stopped to lay down twice, which was my signal to cut it short at 30 minutes :-) Today will be a rest day w/just a walk.

TKay - Loved your race report & am so glad the whole family had a great experience. DH's cheering cracks me up! And your boys' support is so wonderful. What a great feeling. I'm w/Seathyme...your decision about the half-marathon is all about your head & whether or not you want to do it. The legs will come. But, if you want to stick w/5K & 10Ks for a while, that's fine, too.

Les - I've read about that new race. So glad you signed up! Does LW have her eye on walking any races in your new area??

Hi to Seathyme (take it easy w/that cold), MGS, Nat, Kathy & the rest o' the gang.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Susan - Two days in a row is good for running with Bode. Laying down would be a definite signal that he didn't want to play any more. Hope he enjoys his walk today.

LW is actually toying with the MCM half in May, especially since it is fairly walker-friendly (4 hour time limit). I think she said something about rewarding her completion with a trip to Ginny Beyer (fabric/quilting/crafts person). Besides that she's going to walk this weekend in a 5k walk for the homeless on the National Mall. That should be fun but definitely not a race.

Happy trails all,
Les

[TKay]

Seathyme - Hope you're feeling better. Sounds like it was a good idea to lay low yesterday.
Susan - I can picture Bode just plopping down for a rest. I bet he had a great sleep afterward. Enjoy your walk.
Les - That's great that LW can join you for some of the events you do--and even does her own. I'm drawn to the ones that raise money for good causes. A 5K for the homeless sounds perfect.

Took yesterday off. I got really achy and run down, like I was coming down with something and not just tired from the race. I feel a bit better today, so I went for about 40 minutes around the neighborhood. I took it easy with walking breaks and a slow pace. It's in the 80s here today! The sun felt nice. :)
Hi to Elizabeth, Victoria, Meg, Kathy B and everyone else out there in VRB land. Have a good one.

[mabvt]

Hi everybody. After a week and a half hiatus I put my shoes on today! Hooray.
It was a great run. It is fairly warm here today (50ish) and a beautiful evening. I only went three miles but I wish I'd timed myself. It was that good.
I've been having some stress with my family lately. That combined with the time off made for a run that felt REALLY good. :p
I've been lurking a bit this week. Les, I was very interested to read about your pacing experience. Wowza! Way to keep your cool.

It's also interesting to read about all of the cool places some of you all have run. Now that I think of it, I've only ever run in my very own neighborhood.

Have a truly excellent evening.

Melissa

[Natasha]

Quick check-in to say hi to my virtual running buds...

Les, okay, maybe that race was a bit TOO exciting! I'm sorry to hear about Walt. I'm glad it wasn't serious in the end, but still - how scary. Glad he was in good hands with the Master Pacer :)

TKay, loved reading about your race!! I don't have kids, but love seeing the signs from kids waiting for a parent to appear at a race, and the excitement when they do see them. Soooo cute.

Vicci, good luck with your back issues :( Fingers crossed that it all gets better soon.

Hi to Seathyme, Susan, Kathy, Melissa, Betsy, mgs, and everyone else.

I'm back from CA. It was a busy few days with work and then the weekend, but I'm not complaining in the least :) I also did get in a run, a trip to the gym and some walking (such as at Muir Woods), but I still got less exercise and ate richer food than I would at home (no surprise there ;)). No jet lag, though - I'd read somewhere how exercising can reduce the effects of jet lag, and I'm not sure if that's true (does anyone know?), but I did run very soon after checking in to the hotel, so maybe that helped.

Yesterday and today I had very strong workouts, probably fueled by my few days of relative inactivity. I had a fun session on the bike trainer yesterday (honest - I usually do really enjoy training sessions on the bike trainer!), and a glorious hike and 5 mile run today.

Take care, all,
Natasha

[newsomz]

Hi everybody!! Just a quick drive by to say hello. I still haven't had my follow-up appt so I am reluctant to start running again. However, Friday is the day! Hopefully I'll be able to start up slowly again.

It sounds like everyone has had productive days and a nice Veteran's Day. Congratulations!!

-carrie

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by -- got too late today so I'll claim my ride and respond to your notes tomorrow. I had a good hour ride today but what's up with this? I was out for an hour in short sleeves? :confused: The other day I had on three layers and gor-tex and today I had on bike shorts and a t-shirt.

Best to you Carrie - I hope things come out well.

Happy trails,
Les

[Kathy B]

45 min on the TM yesterday plus a good yoga workout.

Glad to hear you had a good run, Melissa! :)

Tkay and Seathyme, take care of yourselves....that's how it starts! I finally have both of the kids back in school, and I guess you could say I fended off getting very sick myself, but I sure felt like I was running on a low battery for the last week or so. Get lots of sleep and fluids (and a little zinc doesn't hurt either ;) ).

Les, good thing you were there for your friend, more so to treat and aid even than to pace. Hope he is back to normal by now. Must have been kind of scary for him.

Congratulations on your race, too, TKay! Nothing like your own personal cheering section. :D

[seathyme]

Fly-by to say had a good 5-mile cramp-free run this morning. Yay.

And welcome back, Natasha! Muir Woods... so beautiful.

Hello to all~~

[newsomz]

Great job on the runs everyone!

I'm glad to hear you're feeling better, seathyme, and had a nice run.

Kathy, how often do you do yoga? I was doing it pretty consistently at home before this semester started up...

I hear you about the weather, Les. It seems to be warming up here again :(

Natacha - Welcome back! I'm sure Muir woods was beautiful.

Melissa - Good job on the run! Keep it up :)

Oh, and as for where I've run.. Not that many places. Austin, TX; Gainesville, FL; Tallahassee, FL; St. Augustine, FL. At least those are the only ones I can think of.. Looks like I need to start running on vacation or entering some races!

Today I took a nice 1 mi (or so) walk. It was the first long-ish walk I've done. And it felt sooo nice.

[Natasha]

Hi everyone!

Carrie, yay on the walk!! So glad you're feeling better :)

Seathyme, sounds like you're feeling better today too - good to hear. :) There seem to be some bugs going around lately - I know quite a few people who are/were fighting something off, and last week I thought I might get it too.

Melissa, good work on that run. Isn't running a GREAT stress reliever?? Definitely one of the many reasons I love it.

Les, how exciting that LW might walk the MCM 1/2. Please give her mine and DH's best, by the way. Also, I wasn't able to post on the Veterans' Day thread on the day itself, but of course I did think of all those who served and serve now - including you.

Kathy - a run AND yoga - good for you. Thanks for the reminder to do yoga later tonight, after my spin. I've been itching to ride all day. It'll be indoors, but still -- I'm looking forward to it :)

TKay, how are you feeling? Better, I hope.

Susan, sounds like you and Bode are having a grand time with your runs :D He sounds like such a sweetie!

Belated post-workout editing to say hi to Betsy and Meg, and to ask Vicci how her back is doing.

Hey, has anyone tried the holiday mint chocolate GU? http://www.amazon.com/GU-Mint-Chocolate-Energy-Gel/dp/B000XV8YWM

I'm not sure I'd love it (though I can't see not liking it), as I prefer some of GU's non-chocolate flavours, but I want to try it just for fun and because I think the idea of giving a holiday pack of gel is cool :D

Take care,
Natasha

[mgs]

Hi everyone! just starting to get to know everyone here... sorry to hear there were so many out with injuries. I somehow got away healthy after DS had the cough and yuckies last week.

Yesterday no run but I did a decent walk in the stroller to a playground in GG park yesterday w/a friend. We were catching up on her trip home and we ended up getting into it (the walk or the gossip??) and started really panting so I guess it counts as a bit of a work out.

Did run for about 35 min today. It is a nice loop I found and about as long as my newbie legs can handle right now. For another couple weeks that will be my loop = I do have my race coming up quickly, though@ yikes.

my run today was the first run since coming back from my 2 year hiatus that I felt really bad. About 1/2 through I seriously considered stopping - my feet flet like bricks - which isn't uncommon for me - but I couldn't get my breathing right and my mid section started to feel weird. Not exactly a stitch. BUT I am too stinking stubborn to stop so I thought "I'll just run to Stanyan" (the mouth of the park) and walk home... well... I ended up having to stop at a stop light at Stanyan and after standing about 15 seconds I got a second wind and was able to very easily make it home. Also a middle school running group creeped up beside me so I wasn't going to let them beat me!

I do remember in the past, never really feel light on my feet. I hope that some day I will be able to feel that way, but for now I feel like I am just 'picking them up and putting them down'. I am just a loud runner.:o :p I huff and puff and slap my feet and turn beat red:rolleyes: always have, even when I feel great. Must be genetic! I try to ignore my feet and think about the scenery or listen to music to think about my upper body form. If I run with relaxed shoulders and chest open I run so much easier...

thanks every one for checking in. It really makes me feel accountable for my runs also! I won't be able to run Thurs/Fri but should be able to on the weekend. DS and I do have toddler yoga tomorrow which is actually pretty physical so I will have some activity. Fri we will probably do a stroller walk and I will try to encorporate some hills. Not hard to do here...

Meg

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thanks all. Fly by things are busy these days and I need to get a handle on things besides being here. I'll probably lurk a little for the rest of the week as I try and make sense of the remainder of the semester. I know it's over a month away but I have a couple significant projects due that will demand time at the computer not surfing.

Love the reports and all. BTW - although I haven't checked the MCM 1/2 is already closed. Sold out 5000 slots already. But I guess it has been all of 2 weeks now so...

No run today and no ride. 6 hours of class ending at 5 so if anything it will be a run since my trainer isn't set up in the basement yet.

Talk to you later and have a great remainder of the week.

Les

[SusanMac]

Les - so, do you think you got in? Or had you not registered quite yet? Even tho it's new, I"m surprised that one went quickly.

MGS - DH slaps his feet when he runs, too. When we run together I always turn up my headphones extra loud :-)

Nat - That's brilliant of Gu to come out w/a holiday flavor. I do like mint & choc together, even tho I usually lean toward Gu's fruit flavors. These will make some good stocking stuffers!!

No runs since Mon, and today's work schedule is jammed. Maybe tomorrow? Or maybe not til the weekend. I have my eye on a yoga class for the winter, as well.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Yes Susan, I got in and confirmed it. It is kind of amazing that it took 14 days to close - noon on 11/1 through noon 11/14. I also found out that my coach made it in but I'll have to check if anyone else from the Norfolk group got in.

Happy trails,
Les

[TKay]

Kathy B - I should have heeded your warning. I did come down with something--now it's in my chest. I FEEL pretty good, but have the sludge to deal with. (Ewwww.) Hope you're doing well.
Seathyme - Yay! No cramps!
Newsomz - Glad the walk felt good. Sounds nice.
Natasha - Holiday Gu pack. Now there's an idea for dh's stocking...;)
Meg - Good going with the run and the walks. I'm not a natural runner and it's taken me a long time to get comfortable. You'll get there too. (I still hate the first half of my runs and wonder what the heck I was thinking for starting this business! :D ) Your competitiveness cracks me up. Sometimes I'll pass someone and totally wind myself just because I want to "beat" them. :confused: Funny, the stuff we do.
Les - I'm not familiar with the bigger (or longer) races. Isn't that kind of fast for a race to fill up? Glad you got in. Good luck with all you've got on your plate.
Susan - I thought the same thing about the Gu stocking stuffers. Could be kind of funny--and useful too!

No runs to report from me. I ended up getting some kind of chest cold, so I'm laying low. I hope, hope, hope to get in a run tomorrow.

[mabvt]

Hi guys-

No run today for me. I did take the wonder dog for walk.

It was my first hat-gloves-vest-you can see your breath walk of the season!
It is chilly in these parts.

Sorry to those who have colds. Blech. I have lots of sneezing and snotting going on in my classroom these days. I've been hitting the hand sanitizer hard.

Melissa

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les - I'm not familiar with the bigger (or longer) races. Isn't that kind of fast for a race to fill up? Glad you got in. Good luck with all you've got on your plate.

No runs to report from me. I ended up getting some kind of chest cold, so I'm laying low. I hope, hope, hope to get in a run tomorrow.

It has been my experience that half marathons fill up fairly quickly around here. And especially any race that is "Marine Corps Marathon" because the largest Marine Base (or at least the most prominent one) is just south of DC. Typically races don't fill up in 2 weeks but this one is the inaugural and there was a 5000 person limit. As a frame of reference, the half marathon in Norfolk that has a 7000 person limit normally takes about 3 months to fill up so this one was a little out of the ordinary.

Sorry you're not feeling well. I think I need to hit it because I'm starting to feel run down. Hope to run tomorrow... howdy to all and have a great weekend.

Les