Virtual Running Buddies (week of 2/8/08)

[TKay]

I'll go, I'll go, I'll go! (Hand waving in the air.)

I will go first, but I have nothing to report. I'm trying an easy TM run today and will report back later as to how things go. Also busy doing some estimates and getting financial papers in order for possible re-fi on the house. Gotta keep moving today.

Les - Trashcan eggs sound good! Glad they fit the bill. Hope you get in some good runs.
Susan - Bummer about the time squeeze, but congrats on the new client. It's a give and take, isn't it? I'm usually happy when I get in a bunch of work and then I think, now why did I want this to happen? Hang in there.
Natasha - Happy shared datenight!

Hello to everyone else. I hope to be back later today and at some point this weekend. We've got lots on our plate the next few days. Happy happy!

[SusanMac]

Happy Friday!! I don't have anything to report yet, but didn't want to you to feel lonely or unloved, TKay ;-)

Les - You need a new name for your trashcan eggs. It sounds yummy. It's just a matter of positioning! Sounds like you had another crazy day. Hope you have nice weather for your runs throughout the weekend

TKay - I just keep thinking how lucky I am that the work flood is happening now, and not last year during my intense training. I think someone was looking over me to ensure I had enough free time! (Maybe it was Les ;-)

I was hoping for a shared date-night tonight, as well, but DH wants to stay in. So, our date night will be Sat instead.

I know I had other stuff to respond to from last week's thread, but it's gone from my brain

OK, off to finish 2 projects so I can actually, really, honestly spin tonight! I hope to be back later w/a good report.

[Natasha]

TKay, sounds like a busy but fun few days ahead for you. Hope the run was a success!

Les, the eggs sound good. DH likes to make eggs and throw this'n'that in them but I don't think even he makes such an eclectic mix. Sounds delicious.

Susan, I know what you mean about the time! Sounds like a good thing that you're busy, though, and 7 AM is not all that early for workouts. You can do it :)

No date night for us tonight - we were starting to figure out what we should do when I recalled that we have a party to go to ;) But that's good - I'm looking forward to it. Just got my hair chopped (though didn't donate the rest to charity, sadly) and I'll try to fit in a short spin before we head out.

We have so much snow it's nutty. There's about 20 inches so far and it's snowing again, with more expected for tomorrow. We'll be over 2 feet soon. I couldn't even walk the pup in the forest as I often do because the snow there is almost as high as he is. ;) Speaking of him, it's time for a walk.

Best to all for the weekend!!

[TKay]

Susan - Ahh, thanks. I do feel better now. Glad Les was watching over you during your training. He's a good one to have on your side.
Natasha - Have fun at your party. Be careful in the snow.

I got in about a half hour on the TM today. I kept it slow and easy. The funny thing is, my shins didn't hurt, but they did feel tired. I consider the run a success. My schedule will force more rest this weekend.

Have a good one, runners.

[Leslie Ferguson]

I'd call that a successful run TKay and it's not surprising that your shins feel tired considering they must have been really tweaked for you to have them hurt to the touch. Good that you took it easy today and that you'll probably take it easy this weekend (even though it's a forced taking it easy). I hope your plates aren't too full this weekend and maybe that will keep you away from the BB. ;) But seriously, I hope the re-fi goes well.

You're right Susan, I need a new name for my eggs. The initial foray a few years ago was in an attempt to clear out the refrigerator of stuff that had a couple days before heading to the trashcan (hence the name - "it was my eggs or the trashcan"). I'm certainly glad that you got all your training in last year and that "my" looking over you helped. Was your spin as good as you would like it to be?

2 feet of snow there Nat? That's a bunch (understatement) and yep, Cabot would disappear in that much powder. Glad you remembered the party before you headed out on date night, I hope that you both got your spin in and had a good party tonight. And I do remember the great eggs that DH whipped up - sometime I'll have to return the favor.

I'll start by saying that today was a little better than yesterday although I'm still not sure where my energy and motivation has disappeared to - hopefully I can get some motivation soon, I'm finishing the 2nd of 12 weeks this quarter and I need to pick up the pace a little. After classes I got home and ran for ~64 minutes. It was pretty nice, not as warm as the other day but still nice. Ran in shorts and short-sleeves but today will probably be the last day for that because it's supposed to be normal temps soon (lower 40s). I'm still shooting for a long run tomorrow but may have to postpone til the afternoon since LW gets home after being gone for a week and the house looks like I've had a busy week at school. :rolleyes:

Hope everyone has a good weekend and happy trails,
Les

[SusanMac]

Nat - I meant working out at 7 PM (not AM :-) I worked til 7pm all week. And told myself that I should workout, but the thought of not eating til 8:30 didn't seem right. The goofy thing is that in the summer, it doesn't seem so bad. I think it's a daylight thing.

[Natasha]

Susan, oops! :o Sorry about that - must read more carefully. I also think 7 PM is a good time to workout, FWIW :D I occasionally end up doing my training then or even later (but when I do so in the winter, it's generally indoors. I hear you on the daylight thing.) How's Bode enjoying all the snow? (I don't think I need to ask!)

TKay, I'd also say that is a successful run. Hope your weekend away with DH is going splendidly.

Les, I'm not surprised you are lacking in energy right now - sounds like school and all the accompanying things (such as interviews) are designed to keep you on your toes and with very little spare time. I hope you get the motivation back soon. Glad you got in your run and welcome back to LW!

I did get in my spin yesterday and we had a nice time at the party. Today we plan to go snowshoeing. And yes, it's still snowing!

I was reading an ancient RW article the other day and it featured the Hana Relay (see http://www.virr.com/races/hana/ ). Wouldn't that be an amazing VRB event somewhere way down the road, if it still exists? I know it's a pipe dream and is fairly inconvenient for everyone (except Felice!), so am not at ALL serious about proposing this as a VRB event, but wow, would it be fun. Driving up and down those roads was hilly and windy - a run would be incredible. I know - maybe it can be a virtual VRB event :p

How's everyone else doing this weekend? Exciting plans for the weekend or the week ahead?

Natasha

[SusanMac]

Woo hoo! I have a spin to report. Plus, some squats & planks. Felt good to finally get some endorphins going.

Nat - You seem to workout at most any time of day or night! I need to get past my quirks. I do think it's a winter-time thing. I'm less picky in the summer. I think it's the need to nest in the winter. We had a fab hike through the dog park today w/Bode. He gets extra worn out b/c it takes so much effort to run in the deep powder! As you know, a tired dog is a good dog

I love the idea of finding a relay race to do! They have them all over. There are 3 I know of in WI (Door County, another along the Mississippi, and another from Madison to Chicago)

Les - You rock! As busy as my work has been, I"m not sure I could be a student again.

Sending good vibes out to Legolas. Haven't heard from you in a while. Are you lurking?? ;-)

Howdy to everyone else. Hunkering down for our wind chill warning tomorrow. You don't even want to know. Decided to cancel my running group & will do another indoor spin. I'm watching Harry Potter while I spin -- makes for a fun workout!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Nat - Sounds like a great evening for you yesterday. I hope the snow lets up/stops soon - then Cabot might have a chance to romp in the snow. You know you're right, with everything else going on I'm pretty spent. I'm sure there are other things that may be impacting the situation but being spent is a good start. I'm up for a Virtual-VRB event in Hana - that would be a blast! :cool:

Susan - I'd almost take working for real again - studying is really relentless. I mean, just give me a 50 hour work week any old day. ;) NOT! A tired dog is a good dog in my book and I haven't had a dog in a while. Have fun hunkering down and stay warm.

Reports of the day - LW got home safely and it was neat seeing her even if she was terribly tired - worked 40 hours this week lifting bolts of fabric and standing on a hard (concrete covered with pile carpet) floor. Good to have her at home. No run, couldn't get my timing right and ended up getting engulfed with taxes (not fun this year - renting for the first time, retired, tuition deduction, mortgage... you get the picture) then had to do some shopping for next week and get everything put together for paking a double batch of bread for next week's church services tomorrow. But I'm feeling more energy and maybe tomorrow will be the day that breaks the log jam.

Happy trails and have a good weekend,
Les

[Legolas]

I'm here Susan, and actually have somewhat of a run to report. After a bit of a comedy of errors (no socks, only one shoe in the gym bag - the other one was at home in my living room) I managed a TM run/walk of 30 minutes in a pair of shoes that was absolutely SHOT. But, I had driven to my parents' house so I figured I'd do something instead of bagging in.

Just enjoying my cereal and tea now, I have a date later. I actually could be counted among the Friday night date-night folks this week. :o Not the greatest time in my life to be trying this, and this is a fairly high-pressure one (our fathers, of all people, set this up, and our parents vacation together) but given the situation, I couldn't turn him down. So... we'll give it a shot.

Cold and windy here in Ithilien today - hope you are all keeping warm!

[Natasha]

Susan, yup, I know what you mean about a tired dog being a good one. Better behaviour through exhaustion, we always say ;) You're right about there being lots of cool relays out there so maybe we will do a VRB one sometime! Madison to Chicago sounds neat. I'm thinking about doing a relay with my IRL club later this year - we'll see. Stay warm and enjoy the spin with HP! We did a couple of workouts this week while watching School of Rock for the third time or so. It's so silly but always makes me laugh.

Legolas, nice to see you here :) Good luck with the date and I hope it goes well. Don't you hate it when you just can't get your act together for a run? Glad you did it, anyway.

Les, what kind of bread are you making/did you make? On another note, if you don't mind saying, are you using software of some kind for your taxes, or doing them by hand (or sending them out to someone to do)? I ask because in our experience here, if you have anything other than a very straightforward tax situation, a good software package can save you a ton of time. (But I'm sure you know that.)

Like Susan, DH and I opted not to run outdoors with our club this morning. It's cold and windy and especially icy. I did the run I was going to do, but on the treadmill: a bit over 7 miles. We were going to go for coffee but since the roads are icy figured why drive if we don't have to? Now DH is on the treadmill doing the run HE was going to do this morning with the club.

Hi to everyone else, and have a great rest of weekend!

[newsomz]

I just wanted to pop in and say hi to everyone!

TKay - I'm glad to hear your first tm run went well.. I hope you've had another nice easy run and can ease back into things.

SusanMac - Sounds like you're keeping up with the runs in spite of an extra busy schedule. Good job!

Natasha - all that snow sounds coooold!! The Hana Relay sounds like so much fun! This coming year I was hoping to do the Marathon du Medoc (http://www.marathondumedoc.com/) this year but I have a wedding to go to that weekend so I'll have to postpone until 2009. Looks like Hawaii could be next :)

Les - I'm glad to hear that DW got home okay. I'm sure it is nice to have her back. It sounds like you are staying busy, as always. I must say you are quite an inspiration as I can often sit around on my bum doing nothing for too long :) I need to finish reading last weeks thread and read up about the trashcan eggs. It sounds like something I frequently make (and had this morning).

Legolas - great job on getting the run done despite the situation. Have fun on the date!

I don't have anything to report... yet. I'm going to leave for a run in a few hours so I'll come back and log it once I finish. We've been having absolutely gorgeous weather here.. It is the weather that makes you love Florida and swear you'll never leave.. But just wait a few months and I'll be complaining big time about the heat :)

[newsomz]

Reporting a nice & easy 6K run. It was beautiful out!

[VictoriaL]

Reporting a nice & easy 6K run. It was beautiful out!
NOOOOOOO! I don't want to hear this! ;)
We're currently at 20 degrees with some nasty winds taking the wind chill down to 2. Yes 2. And I have a feeling that Susan's area is even colder... (please post about it and make me feel warmer!)

I have to report success with my stretching program. I am definitely feeling less pain and tension in my quads and especially in my hip flexor. And I'd like to ask a question: how can I exercise my calf muscles on the "bad" leg without placing stress on the ankle/foot? Is there even a way to do this? I took off the aircast on Friday when I took a shower (as opposed to washing my leg/foot separately in small bucket) and was shocked at the difference between my right and left leg calf muscles. I'd like to nip this little deterioration in the bud as soon as possible.

Okay, happier things to talk about!

Nat, have you received even more snow?! How gorgeous that must be. If it's going to be cold out, I'd really like to see some snow but we haven't had more than an inch in the past 6 weeks. Not that I can even use the xx skis or snowshoes, but it would just be pretty to look at!

Les, did you get out for a run today (I'm betting that you're not dressed in shorts and short-sleeved shirts, though)? Your schedule sounds exhausting-- I'd be tempted to sleep rather than exercise, although I would know better...

Legolas, hope that the date went well. Perhaps, in a screwy twist of fate, your father and his father would have managed to put together "the" couple?!

Tkay, glad to hear that the shin problem eased up. I know how very painful that can be.

Hope that everyone is having a good weekend and, if necessary, keeping warm!

[Elizabeth B]

Hello all!

TKay - I'm glad your shin is feeling better - you should be in good shape for your 10K.

Legolas - Good job on squeezing in a 30 min. run/walk with a less than ideal situation. I hope your date was fun!

Les - Good luck with your taxes. I'm so glad DH handles that. Did LW work at her old store over the weekend and if so, was it for the big sale they have?

Natasha - A relay would be a good VRB event, IMO. I've never done one, but they sound like so much fun.

My "live" running buddy and I tagged along with our local running club's long run this morning. They were starting at 7 am and doing 16 miles, we started at 8 am and did 10 miles, which worked out fine. It was a comedy of errors, though. First, the zipper on my jacket got stuck, then it broke completely, and I lost first one, then both gloves somewhere along the route. I'm glad to have it over - the last 3 miles were windy and I felt pretty worn down at the finish. But I'm feeling fine now (except for a nasty case of chafing from my running bra - sorry, Les).

That's all for now - take care and have a great week, y'all!

[aggie94]

Hi to all!

Finally checking in after about a week of not that much activity. The Chinese New Year party last weekend was a blast, but it knocked me dead on my feet. I pretty much crashed the entire next day and it's been tough getting back into a normal routine. I did manage four workouts this week, including two treadmill runs (30 min and 45 min) and a 60 minute hilly run today with my running buddy. I know I shouldn't complain given some of the conditions you guys are dealing with, but it was HOT today. We had switched our usual Sunday morning run to an afternoon run when the weather was cold, but it's warmed up now and we hadn't moved it back. So at 3:00 when we started today, it was 80 degrees out. :eek:

Wasn't there some discussion awhile back about a VRB relay? I would love to do something like that since I'm still bummed to have missed meeting everyone at Flying Pig a couple of years ago.

[Kathy B]

55 min brisk walk on the TM. That is all I had energy for today.

Elizabeth, your run makes me cold just thinking about it. You are a hardy soul!

Vicci, glad to hear your stretching program is helping. I would strongly suggest you check with your orthopod regarding what you can do with your injured leg (if anything) before trying any exercises. The last thing you want to do is set yourself back! Just call the office and ask to talk with the nurse. She/he should be able to answer your questions, or get back to you after she/he finds out the answer.

Good job on your 6K, newsomz!

My kids love School of Rock, Natasha. We can all quote many of the lines, too. Very educational movie, since DS is interested in music. :p Way to go on the TM run!

Legolas, good job on your TM run, too! Did you do anything fun on your date?

How did your bread turn out, Les? One thing I enjoy about the cold weather is that I can bake as much as I want, because if it heats up the house, so much the better! I made some WW bread a few days ago, and I'm planning on CL's Raisin-Honey Milk Bread sometime this week....nice for toast in the mornings I'm thinking.

Glad you got in your spin, Susan, and some squats/planks to boot. I should probably start doing squats since DD and I are going skiing over her spring break. My brother swears it will keep me from getting so stiff and sore like I did last year. :o

Tkay, yea(!) for shins that are getting better. It's good that you have a forced rest....that's probably ideal in this case. Take it easy. :)

Wishing you all a good week!

[Natasha]

Hi all,

Eva, yes, we did think about relays a while back! I had forgotten about that. Just checking in here to suggest some possible relays in different parts of the U.S. for 2009 or beyond, just in case there's interest. I know there are lots of other good ones out there.

the very popular and quickly sold out Hood to Coast Relay, OR (http://www.hoodtocoast.com/) - likely to be late August 2009
Madison to Chicago 200 mile relay, WI/IL (http://www.mc200.com/) - as mentioned by Susan - likely to be early/mid June 2009
Colorado Relay for Outward Bound Wilderness (http://www.coloradorelay.com/) - likely to be September 2009
Green Mountain Relay, VT (http://www.greenmountainrelay.com/) - likely to be June 2009

I like the ones where there are over 20 or even 30 legs so we can leapfrog and see one another throughout the race, rather than just at the beginning and the end. But I'm totally getting ahead of myself here. :p I'll shut up now. We've got a ton of time to think about all this.

Hi to all - more personal replies tomorrow!

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

In no particular order and briefly because it's really too late to be doing this in the first place.
1. No run today - much too much sanity maintenance this afternoon. And yes, if I had run in the 25-45 mph winds I'd have definitely been in two or three layers.
2. I made whole wheat and honey bread made with baking powder (as close to unleavened bread as we can get). The double batch I made today came out the best of the 4 times I've made it so far. I love baking bread in the winter too because of the heat in the house from baking and the fabulous smell.
3. Taxes are done with TaxCut. Haven't done taxes by hand in about 9 years - shortly after we bought our house. Mortgage, insurance, etc. made it too hard to get everything right. And this year my head would spin with all the odd things (liquidating 60 days leave as a lump-sum bonus, school expenses, rental income and expenses, re-fi, and more things that I care to imagine) I'd be looking to commit myself.
4. LW worked at her old store but not for their big sale - they wanted her to work because a couple folks were out on vacation and they were short handed. She ended up working almost 40 hours instead of the ~24 hours she expected. The big sale comes in July around the 4th.
5. A relay would be grand for all the reasons mentioned already.
6. Cold here too but not that bad - 22 with a 5-9 degree wind chill. It's supposed to be near 15 in the morning - I hope without wind but I'm not holding my breath.

Time for bed. Maybe among all the other things going on I'll get some exercise in but it doesn't look good for the home team until maybe Thursday - 2 interviews on Tuesday and probably one on Wednesday (follow-up on the one I did on Thursday last week).

Happy trails and keep warm.
Les

[SusanMac]

Yay! Back to back spins on both Sat & Sun. And my quads are feeling it. It's a good feeling, tho, as you all know.

Les - I assume you mean "22" and not "-22" ;-) Good luck on all the interviews this week.

Victoria - I'll make you feel better. It was -30 w/wind chill yesterday. We did make it out to the dog park for a very quick, 15 min hike. I'm thinking we need to make a coat for Bode. We are also car shopping. Perfect weather, no? I agree w/you about needing beautiful snow. Cold w/out snow is useless IMO. Hope you get some soon. Don't worry about your calf for now. It needs healing rest.

Legolas - Way to crank out a workout under tough conditions! You must report in on the date.

Elizabeth - Do we need to get you some of those mittens that clip to your coat jacket? ;-)

Nat - Relay sounds fun. I've never done one. W/our group, we could have lots o' variation on leg lengths, which would be cool. I'd be very happy to host a VRB relay jamboree for Madison to Chicago next year! Of course, a few of us would be sleeping on air matresses.

Newsomz - Good to hear from you again

Aggie - Throwing that party was a workout in itself. Glad you're getting back on track. I've forgotten how far off your half is.

Seathyme - are you back yet? Hopefully you got some dry, fun runs along the Embarcadero & Presidio. Maybe across the GG bridge, too?

Later runners

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les - I assume you mean "22" and not "-22" ;-) Good luck on all the interviews this week.

I re-read my post and can see how that is what my comment said but it was +22 last night. Of course it was a roaring + 8 or 9 this morning. -30 windchill is mind (and body) numbing.

Gotta run to class.
Les

[aggie94]

I perused some of the relay links that Natasha posted. I have always wanted to do Hood to Coast, but the Madison to Chicago 200 sounds awesome! I would love to be part of that, although I did notice one of their "rules" is no headphones except on trails, which I take to mean not on roads. <sigh> At least I have a year and a half to get used to running without music. ;)

I *really* admire you folks who can even leave your house when it's below freezing outside, much less go for a walk/run/hike! :eek:

[SusanMac]

I think a lot of races have the no headphones rules....but I've found few who actually enforce it. A relay could be different, though, since there are fewer runners & the roads aren't closed.

I should point out that the Madison-Chicago route is definitely the least scenic part of the state. But, this could be a good thing since scenic typically = hills :-)

I've always wanted to do Hood to Coast. I hear it's hard to get into. Plus, I'm thinking we'd have more participants if we did something central US (like the Flying Pig). I'd consider Phoenix 'central' enough ;-) (partially b/c we have friends there who just had a baby. I could easily talk DH into that trip!) Nashville is also a good central spot.

[TKay]

Active thread lately. Glad to see everyone's been doing well.

Susan - When I did that 5K last year, there was a rule about no headphones. I think I'm the only one who followed it. Good going on the spins. I love that tired muscle feeling.
Aggie - Glad you're getting in so many good runs. Sorry about the heat. It can really zap your energy.
Les - That's fantastic that you got your taxes done. I'm dreading doing mine--and I hire someone who puts it all together. (I have the self-employed, business-expenses irritation to deal with.) Your bread sounds good. Glad LW is back. Hope you get in some stress-relieving exercise soon. Sounds like you could use it.
Natasha - Those relays sound great. I've never done one.
KathyB - Great going on the long TM walk.
Elizabeth - That's a nice long run. Sorry about the gloves.
Victoria - I'm so glad you're posting even though you're not getting in the kind of activity you'd like. It's amazing how quickly your muscles can decrease in size and strength. But remember, they have great memory too. As soon as you're healed, you'll get that tone and strength back in no time. Hang in there.
Newsomz - Great going on the 6K run. Funny about the weather. It's perfect for about two seconds, right?
Legolas - Nice to hear from you. How was the date?

Report: Not a spec of exercise over the weekend. Dh and I stayed in Newport Beach Friday night and the weather was glorious Sat a.m. I hadn't brought workout clothes and I was kicking myself (okay, so I got that exercise). The hotel was phenomenal, on the bay with a remarkable view. While dh worked, I sat on the balcony with my coffee, watching the yachts, rowers and dolphins frolic in the water. There was a boardwalk I could have easily run on. Oh, well.

We took ds and his buddy to the aircraft carrier (Midway) in San Diego yesterday. It was so much fun, a belated b-day celebration for ds who turned 8.

Today, I'm back to the gym, hoping for a successful TM run. The weather is good again today (sorry, snowbound people), but I think I'll stay indoors on the cushy TM and avoid the concrete.

[Legolas]

I'd be up for a relay if it works with my work schedule! The one I did in September was a ton of fun!

No run to report (just a bit of soreness - I did some upper-body weights after my "run" - ouch!) so I'll give the date report(s). Date 1 was dinner - beer and wings - on Friday night. Conversation was easy, and we were there for about 2 hours. Date 2 (which was the original date he called me for - more background below) was a hockey game. We ended up driving down to the rink with his friend and his friend's kid, then split when we got to the rink, then met up again at the car. He walked me into the house, I gave him the dime tour, then I got a nice hug (his buddy was waiting in the driveway :o). I think he's growing on me. ;)

Background - his father and my mother know each other from business, my parents and his dad and step-mom travel together, and my dad hunts with him and his dad. I met his dad/step-mom last year at a funeral, and they are really nice people. I'm sure his dad was *thrilled* when he heard that we car-pooled down to the rink (NOT!) - his dad bought the tickets for the game with the stipulation that he ask me! When he called to introduce himself/ask me out (sight unseen, of course!) we decided dinner before might be a good idea. So, date 1 became date 2. ;)

Any questions? Everyone else in my family does! :eek:

[Leslie Ferguson]

Legolas - Clear to me. What's so hard to follow in that story. It almost sounds like something I would do. Glad you had fun and saw a hockey match too. Hope you recover quickly from the post-run/post-lift soreness.
TKay - I love San Diego so much and know the harbor too well. Glad your shins are better and you're back at it on the TM. Oh what I'd give for some sun these days. Not that it's that bad here but predicting snow/rain for the next two days which may not be a lot of fun all things considered.
Betsy - No problem with your comment - remember, most of my IRL running buddies for the past 8 years have been females so little surprises me any more. Sounds like a divine run the other day.

Did anyone else note there's another showing of the Marathon movie? I didn't stop to see when/where but they're putting it back on the screen.

Howdy to the rest of the gang, Nat, Susan, Kathy B, ktg, seathyme, newsomz, aggie (and anyone else that has gotten away from my mind like Megan and meg).

I had a spin today - it was still windy and plenty cool and I had to get some more reading done which won't happen when I'm running. I made 45 minutes on the bike which felt good and helps reset part of the body clock.

eta/correct: Tough times in the household, at least for the forseeable future. To top off my interviews I just found out (no kidding - 15 minutes ago) that my cousin (he's older - we called him uncle since he's my father's age) had treatment withdrawn due to the severity of his cancer at 5:45 PDT and passed away at 8:13 PDT (about 30 minutes ago). His cancer had gotten really bad and had completely taken over his lung and moving through his throat. It was really tough for his kids and wife to work with him for the past couple months and I'm afraid it will be tough times for many in my family (he was one of the cards in the family) and most likely for my father also (they were "cohorts in crime" when they were growing up).

Sorry for the bad news and I hope that everyone is keeping warm and dry. See you sometime later this week and happy trails all,
Les

[seathyme]

Hi gang!

Les, I'm so sorry about your cousin's death.:( Take good care of yourself (if possible given the stresses of student life) as you come to terms with the loss. Glad you got in a spin yesterday.

Legolas, how fun to have a dating sub-plot on the VRB thread.:D Will look forward to reports of #3. Good to "see" you.

I am digging out from a week away (the dark side of vacation being all the stuff you do before and after to "pay" for the pleasure of being away:rolleyes: ), so don't have time for personal replies to all. But I love how active the thread has been lately -- good to know there are so many runners/joggers/sloggers out there.

SF was fabulous. We were extremely lucky with weather as it had rained the entire week prior to our visit but not a drop while we were there. We walked all over the city, which is one of my favorite things to do, and I got in three runs along Fisherman's Wharf/Fort Mason/Marina. The first one was probably the best, as I'd forgotten how amazing it is to run along the water toward the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise. Wow. Almost forgot I was running..... now if only I could translate that feeling to the "usual routes" here at home!

Greetings to all, and happy trails.:cool:

[TKay]

Les - I am so sorry for the loss of your cousin. What a difficult road he must have traveled with his illness (my mother died of throat and lung cancer--not an easy way to go). My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to you. Hope you get some spins/runs in to help relieve the emotional toll.
Legolas - Glad dates 1 and 2 both went well. I'm also looking forward to a report from number 3. Hope the soreness goes away quickly.
Seathyme - Your SF runs sound glorious. Glad you enjoyed your trip. Good luck "paying" for it. (I know exactly what you mean, btw.)

I got in a 40 min TM run yesterday. I call it a run, but it was more of walk/run. My shins were still bothering me and I was very frustrated by that. I decided to keep going and just take it easy. Once I was fully warmed up, my legs felt fine. They are a bit tender again today, so I'm not sure what to think. I did another half-hour on the elliptical yesterday because my body is just itching to move. I may go to yoga at the gym today. I haven't been, and like I said, my body wants to work out. I don't dare run again today though.

Happy Monday all. Here's to a great week.

[VictoriaL]

Hi All,

First and foremost, Les I am so sorry to hear of your cousin. I hope that you, your Dad, and the rest of your family are able to deal with it with only a minimum of stress. Good luck.

Susan, you went for a "quick hike" in -30 degree temps?! Wow. Double wow. It reached -8 here yesterday and DH turned on the fireplace here in the living room and I made menu lists for our vacation in June. :) How did Bode react to the cold? Years ago, during a severe cold spell, our collie resisted going outside at all. He was older and had arthritis, so we would alllow him to "go" only a few feet from the back door. One time, though, he looked out through the door, apparently decided against it, and proceeded to pee on the laundry room floor. We shoved a pile of newspapers under him and just dealt with it-- he was probably 80 in doggie years and if he didn't want to go out, then... :rolleyes:

Nat it is snowing out like crazy, with about 3" on the ground and another 2" forecasted if the temps don't rise this afternoon and turn it all to rain. But I'd love to have the 2' that you do-- for a couple of days, anyway.

TKay, your trip sounded gloriously warm... And, really, do muscles really remember? I was trying hard to be in better shape for birthday #50 than I was for #40, but if I have to start from scratch this will be impossible within a couple of months. :(

Legolas, your dates sounded very promising. Good luck with the subsequent ones.

Seathyme, your comment about running at sunrise and almost forgetting that you were doing so because of the scenery and mild temperatures-- took me right back to our beach vacations. It's so easy to exercise in warm, beautiful locations. Hmmm, perhaps moving to a nice, temperate Caribbean island would make me a much healthier person? I'm so glad that you enjoyed your vacation from winter weather, and that you returned safely.

I am continuing my modified stretching program this week since it has made such a difference in how my leg muscles feel, but the doctor told me to hold off on both exercising my broken leg (calf muscle) and on using the exercise bike for now (thanks, KathyB for suggesting I call him-- why do I never think of that?). I shall be good and listen because I want this to be healed quickly and completely and I want to get out and RUN. Soon.

...and make bread, and cook entire meals on my own, and step outside even if it is cold out, and get my own groceries, and, and, and... :)

[TKay]

Victoria - Yes, I do think muscles have memory. Or, well, I should say, they come back quickly. I can only imagine how you must feel--like they'll never be the same. But they will. You'll be back at it in time for your birthday. My BIL used to say, "Fit by 40! Fit by 40!" I keep telling him, in my case, it's "Fit by 50!" Hang in there.

I'm popping back in to say I loved the gym's yoga class this morning. I'd intended to do it and then a little cardio afterwards. I felt so great, I skipped the cardio in favor of the stretched, peaceful feeling the class gave me. A definite repeater.

[SusanMac]

Les - :-( So sorry. I remember you talking about him before. Definitely glad they decided against the surgery.

Seathyme - So glad you had a wonderful trip!

Victoria - I'm not sure the carribbean=healthy strategy will work. The pina coladas are just too tempting ;-) Your dog story cracked me up

Legolas - Love your date stories! Any guy who takes you to a hockey game is off on the right foot.

Yesterday was a planned rest day (I swear). Today, I just wrapped up a good bike spin & a bit of core work. It feels good!

Now I really must start paying attention again to this electronic invoicing webcast! I'm at the edge of my seat!

[newsomz]

Glad to hear everyone is doing well.

Victoria- Take it easy :) Your body will heal and you'll be back in no time.

Legolas- The date(s) sound like fun! I hope you continue to enjoy yourself.

Yesterday, DBF and I were supposed to do stadiums. Unfortunately, he hurt himself on the snowboarding trip we just took so the workout was brought to a slow crawl up the stairs. Tomorrow, I'll go without him :)

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thanks for your wishes all - I'm going to tray and take care of myself and as you may surmise, life (school and internships) are acting poorly right now. Not much time to fiddle right now - I'm on at the homeless shelter near school again and it's raining/freezing rain right now so it may take a couple minutes to get across town. I hope everyone's days aren't too bad - it may be snow or freezing rain by tomorrow afternoon. Thank you again for your concern and condolences.

Happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Les, I'm so sorry to hear about your cousin/"uncle". Many thoughts and condolences from DH and me. You really have a lot on your plate right now. I hope things settle down soon.

Few more quick notes...

Carrie, glad you got in that pleasant run on the weekend. Sorry to hear about your DBF and I hope he feels better soon.

Kathy, that makes sense that your kids would like School of Rock. Stick it to da man! :D

Susan, good work on the back-to-back spins a little while back and then today's spin & core. Did you finish HP?

Vicci - you gotta come here if you want to see lots of snow (even for a little while). It's snowing AGAIN - as in another 1/2 to 2/3 of a foot today/tonight/tomorrow. This is the most snow we've had here in nearly a decade. This is the fluffy stuff, which would be nice if not for the underlying layer of ice in some places :eek:

Seathyme, welcome back! I'm glad you had such a delightful trip, including blissful runs. I thought of you when I read about the great weather in SF on Canice's spring fever thread.

TKay, good job on the run/walk and yay on the great yoga session!

Legolas, good to see you. No questions about the guy - sounds positive so far!

Hi to Betsy, ktg, Mary, Eva, and everyone else :)

Wow, it's late and the day just flew (but in a good way). I did a spin and weights today, and yesterday also did a spin. I thought about running today but since it was supposed to be an off day, I thought spinning would be a safer bet. Then we went for a snowy walk and I did my yoga in front of the fireplace while we watched Canadian comedy shows :)

[TKay]

Now I really must start paying attention again to this electronic invoicing webcast! I'm at the edge of my seat!

Can you post the link? That sounds fun. :D

Natasha - Your fireplace yoga session sounds relaxing. I'm sore from my class yesterday. I can't wait to go again.
Newsomz - Good luck with the stadiums today. Sorry to hear about dh's injury. Is he okay?

Planning another easy run on the TM, possibly followed by some elliptical work. I continue to feel my shins, although I wouldn't call it pain. I hope I'm not hurting myself by continuing to run a bit. I've been doing alphabet stretches, so I'm wondering if my muscles aren't just tired from those? My 10K's a week from Sat. I hope I make it.

Hi to everyone I missed--Legolas, Elizabeth, Vicci, Meg, Carrie, KathyB, Aggie, Seathyme, Les et al. Have a good one.

ETA: Got in about 35 minutes on the TM, followed by 25 on the elliptical, plus some abs. My shins made their presence known at the start of my run, but felt okay by the end. Hmm.

[Natasha]

Good long workout for you, TKay! That's positive that the shin issue subsided as you continued on, but still, I'm glad you're taking it easy and are being cautious about your 10k. I guess it's possible that the alphabet stretches are causing the "awareness" of your shins but it also could just be a delayed reaction to how far you've come distance- and speed-wise in the past little while - I know you reported a couple of speedier than usual runs not long ago. It's hard to say, though (some help I am! :rolleyes:)

Today is my rest day. Oh, I guess there will be shovelling but that and walking will be about it exercise-wise. We got a nice sunny, not too cold day here and I'm enjoying the beginnings of a sunset out the window.

Les, continued good thoughts coming your way. How is your dad taking things? I think you said he and your cousin were close?

Take care, all!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les, continued good thoughts coming your way. How is your dad taking things? I think you said he and your cousin were close?
Thank you for your thoughts and for asking. It's been an up and down day for me, which was only exacerbated by my tiredness, a sermon today started with a story about someone who fought and died of cancer (the preacher didn't know) and I was a mess. As for my dad, I haven't heard directly but I know he's probably taking it fairly hard - this is the first of his generation in his family that has died and they were close and have been getting closer over the years. Quite honestly, the family is doing well but because of his nature (light, funny, and one with a good story) he is being grieved and people are taking it pretty hard.
TKay -
Good long workout for you, TKay! That's positive that the shin issue subsided as you continued on, but still, I'm glad you're taking it easy and are being cautious about your 10k. I guess it's possible that the alphabet stretches are causing the "awareness" of your shins but it also could just be a delayed reaction to how far you've come distance- and speed-wise in the past little while - I know you reported a couple of speedier than usual runs not long ago. It's hard to say, though (some help I am! :rolleyes:)

I echo what Natasha said. I think there may be something to the stretching and your awareness of yoru shins but even with that I wouldn't stop stretching because you should benefit from the stretching. It is a good sign that your shins felt better as you got into your run - that is typical as you work your way back into running after an injury. I'd recommend continuing to ice your shins and periodic NSAIDs/aspirin (I'd say it's not a bad thing to flip-flop your anti-inflammatories [remember I'm NOT a doctor] because you are less likely to develop a reaction or tolerance to them that way).

Wild roller-coaster ride today after my lack of sleep, a good interview, driving in near-freezing mist, and just another day "at the mill." I hope that I can do something tomorrow - maybe a spin to get back into things before the weekend.

Happy trails all and see you tomorrow,
Les

[aggie94]

Sixty-minute treadmill run today - sooooooo boring. God bless the iPod. ;) I will probably manage one more short treadmill run this week, and then we are headed to Sedona for the weekend to celebrate my birthday.

Les, more thoughts coming your and your family's way regarding your cousin. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[TKay]

Natasha - Enjoy your semi-rest day. And thanks for the thoughts about my shins. I went to yoga again today to keep everything loose and comfortable. That class is my new love.
Les - Thanks to you, also, for the ideas regarding my injury. Good idea to alternate meds. I hadn't thought of that. You have so much on your plate without this major loss in your life. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. If you can, squeeze in some time for yourself (easier said than done) to keep healthy and somewhat balanced. Hang in there.
Aggie - 60 minutes on the TM is a looooong time. I agree with you about the iPod. We have TVs at the gym where I use the TM, but there never seems to be anything on to hold my interest that long. Happy birthday! And have a great weekend.

As mentioned above, I did a 60-minute yoga class today. That class is my new fave and will likely become a regular thing for me. I'll give the TM another go tomorrow. I'm off to bring my kids lunch at school for V-Day. They are so excited. They will be surprised when dh and my sister show up as well. :D They have no idea.

Happy day, all!

[newsomz]

Les - More good thoughts coming your way. Somehow I missed the note about your cousin the first time around. I wish you and your family the best as you go through this rough time.

TKay - Glad to hear that your shin pain is easing away. DBF fell while snowboarding and hurt his chest/ribs somehow. He said it is getting better though so hopefully he'll be back doing stadiums with me in no time. Thanks for reminding me of yoga! I need to get back on the yoga wagon and get a few classes in.

Aggie - Congrats on a 60 min treadmill run! I'm very impressed... I'm not sure I could hack it for that long on a treadmill. I just started running with my iPod and the music is adding so much to my workouts. I'm not sure why I never took it before...

I did another 5K run yesterday. It ended up being my fastest yet (since I got Nike+) which was surprising since I was planning on taking it easy :) Friday I'm going on a bike ride and then a run on Sat or Sun.

Happy trails to everyone I missed!

[Natasha]

Les, it's good to hear that your family is coping as well as can be expected. What a day for you yesterday. Are you going to get a break any time soon?

TKay, great job on another yoga session!

Eva, ditto on the 60 minute treadmill run.

Carrie, sounds like you are enjoying some great weather and making the most of it with outdoor activity! No outdoor riding for me for a month on the inside - maybe longer.

Seathyme, have you gotten used to the cold NE climate again after your time in SF?

Hi to everyone else. The thread's really calmed down these past couple of days! Hope everyone is well. I plan to spin with DH shortly on our respective bike trainers, and then we'll have a late bite to eat. We both had mid-afternoon snacks so are good to go.

Natasha

[SusanMac]

Nat, could those mid-afternoon snacks, by chance be....Valentine's cookies??!! That's what my afternoon snack was! Our fabulous baker neighbor dropped them off. Sinfully yummy.

I got in a good spin on the trainer today. Not enough to justify the cookies, but it felt good. That's twice this week, and it's only Thurs! I am done w/Harry Potter & am now watching some murder mystery film w/Catherine Deneuve. It's silly & mediocre, which is fine for the trainer. First time I've watched a foreign flick while training. The reading helps you focus :-)

Happy V-day to the rest of you! I have a pork loin in the oven for dinner. I'm afraid my angel food cake won't be done until very late (assuming it would be bad to bake both simultaneously. Do you agree?)

[seathyme]

Hi all,

Susan, I'd have to agree that baking pork loin and angel food cake in the same oven doesn't seem quite right...:p though more experienced cooks than I am might know better. Your V-day dinner sounds delicious!

Tkay, isn't yoga great? Glad you've joined the VRB yoga subculture, which has quite a following here.:D

Nat, your spinning/late dinner V-day sounds lovely. Hope it's going well!

Carrie, nice job on the speedy run.

Eva, happy birthday! Have a great weekend in Sedona.

Les, it certainly sounds like your winter break is over... hope you're hanging in there and can get a workout in here or there amid everything else.

Vicci, you're a trooper. I'm impressed you're able to do the stretching and "safe" stuff without getting too frustrated. Healing will happen, healing will happen, healing will happen, repeat ad nauseum...:rolleyes:

Yes, I have become reacquainted with winter. We've had quite some weather here this week, as have many. Subzero windchill, then snow, then freezing rain, then flooding rains, and finally today sunshine. I logged 5 miles early this morning and hope to get in a few more tomorrow and Sat.

Happy Valentine's Day to all the VRB's!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thank you all again for your continued good thoughts and wishes for me and my family.

Susan - I'm with seathyme that pork loin and angel food cake in the same oven is probably a no go - but that's just me. I love you comment about reading and the bike trainer (more later).
seathyme - It has been one of those winters hasn't it? I'm glad you got out in the sun and logged a 5 miles. It sounds like the ticket for you. You aren't kidding either - winter break is definitely over. :rolleyes:
aggie - you rock with 60 minutes on the trainer.
newsomz - Thanks and I hope that DH heals quickly. It's not too surprising that a tumble on a snow board tweaked his rib cage - it seems like every time I lay my bike down (not all that often) I tweak something that doesn't make sense and my ribs get jostled when I fall so it makes sense to me.
TKay - You're welcome, the pain meds comes from too much experience and developing a nasty allergy to NSAIDs in the process (I can't take ibuprofen, naprosyn/Alleve, Motrin - I'm relegated to aspirin and Tylenol). Good for you to take the day and do yoga, that will help your shin I'm sure.
Natasha - One day's respite on Monday for President's Day then I think we're at it until the end of March so no appreciable break for a while but hopefully getting rid of a couple distractions (interviewing for intern sites) may help. How was your collective spin with DH?

Today was a little better after a little sleep last night and a decent day in class. Plus time does seem to help heal heart pain. It helps that I got a significant amount of research done and resources put together for a paper that I have to write. Then I came home and spun for something over an hour - spent the time pouring over a couple biblical commentaries for my paper and I lost track of time. A good dinner helps. I hope to get to bed earlier tonight - it's looking like a long weekend with about 60 people coming to campus to see what we're all about. Still may get a run in beofer the festivities start tomorrow and Saturday will be up in the air.

Hope everyone has a good Friday and I'll be seeing you. Happy trails,
Les

[Kathy B]

Nothing today, but I did get in 50 min on the TM yesterday.

I went in to work today to get some office work done this morning, and I unexpectedly ended up staying the rest of the day to cover for a nurse who was having contractions 3-4 minutes apart. This was her 3rd pregnancy, so she really needed to leave, but she didn't want to go and leave the unit in a bind. My manager and I pretty much booted her out the door (with many good wishes of course! :D ). Hopefully she will be calling us later with good news.

Les, sorry to hear about your cousin. I hope your dad is handling things OK as well as your cousin's family. Sounds like it was a difficult time for them at the end.

Seathyme, You are my 5 mile run in COLD weather hero! I will not aspire to that, but I will certainly cheer you on. You go girl!!!

Natasha, can you really ride your bike outside after getting 6-8" of snow? You must have great snow plows! Are your streets icy? BTW, I just finished one of the Andre's pastries DH brought home.....Mmmm mmmm! ;)

Tkay, glad to hear you enjoyed the yoga class. Your valentine surprise for your kids sounds like fun. Did they enjoy it?

Newsomz, hope your DBF's injury was not serious. Good job on your 5k.

Fading fast, so I'm off to bed. Hope you all had a happy Valentine's Day!