Virtual Running Buddies- Week of 21 November

[KValley]

Hiya Runners,

Just sitting here at the start of my weekend, workout behind me, breakfast dishes in front of me, trying to decide if I should shower BEFORE my massage or after... I hope this will be the most difficult decision I make today ;)

A frustrating week on the running front, but good in other workout ways. Running, I am just feeling really tight, stiff, like my bones, rather than my muscles, are just saying "enough". It's not even the PF- I feel like I'm managing that okay- it just feels like I've hit a wall. I've been doing a lot of run/walk intervals and trying to let go of my anxieties. On an up note, I'm walking 4 miles round-trip for my work commute (since our move). So at least I'm in forward motion!

The best part of recent events plays directly into my running woes. I have settled upon a gym - after giving one a trial run and feeling extreme distaste for its layout, etc. The new one fits like your most comfortable pair of jeans- after one workout I felt so at home. I really like the weights area- an accessible combo of free weights and Cybex. It's also less expensive AND personal training is part of the membership, at no extra cost. I might go in for some sessions once I have a chance to observe the PTs with other members.

One of the best features of new gym is the quality yoga classes. After about 20 months away from a studio and about 8 months away from serious self-practice, I attended 3 classes this week. Hearing the instructors call out poses in their Sanskrit names was a joy- I think my body responded to the cues before my brain did. I am SO tight and stiff, but rather than feel discouraged about how much ground I've lost, I knew immediately that this is what my body needed- the stretching, releasing, core, strength and endurance building and mental challenge of yoga. At last.

All right- I'm taking a chill from damp workout clothes. Off to the shower, a massage and a peaceful day with DH.

Robyn, I hope you nipped that cold in the bud. And I hear you about the ponytail and the treadmill. I've had more than one near stumble mucking about with my unruly locks. It would be funny if it weren't so dangerous!

Waiting for reports from Costa Rica! Sounds dreamy, now that permanent 4:00 pm gloom has settled into the Northwest and will remain until Valentine's Day!

Namaste, Runners. I wish everyone a wonderful week

[aggie94]

Julie, your new gym sounds great! Glad you found one that you love. Sorry to hear about your running woes. I hope next week is better.

Work has been so busy this week that I have only managed one treadmill run of 20 minutes. :( I do have plans to meet up with my running buddy for a 5 or 6 miler this evening, though. I just wish I could take a nap first. :o Soooo tired after a long, busy week that has clearly caught up to me. I have managed two personal training workouts and will try to get in a third tomorrow running, as well as another run on Sunday morning.

It's still surprisingly warm here, considering next week is Thanksgiving (and a late Thanksgiving at that!). Today we finally dropped into the 70s for our high. I'm sure not complaining, though. It's gorgeous!

Have a great weekend, runners!

[aggie94]

Ugh. Our air quality stinks right now. I ran a 10K tonight with a group from the Y, and the last half was fast for me (it was dark and I was trying to catch up to the pack). I could feel that I was having difficulty breathing, and now I am coughing and wheezing up a storm. YUCK.

I did finally catch the pack about a half mile from the finish, because the group had stopped to help two dogs who were stuck in the canal. They appeared to be black or chocolate labs (it was dark by this time so hard to see), both with collars, but there was no owner in sight. :( One of the guys got into the water heaving from behind while the other stood on the steep bank and pulled them out. Then the two dogs ran off together. I hope they had a home to head to. They were pretty hefty-looking dogs, so I don't think they were strays. At least I hope they weren't. :(

Man, my lungs just feel full of dust and crud now. I never thought I would say this, but I way prefer to run in the mornings. :eek:

[Natasha]

Julie, hope you push through whatever's not right (don't you hate that?), and enjoy the new gym!

Eva, that air quality doesn't sound great. I can understand why you'd want to do more morning runs now, even if that's not your usual preference. Oh, those dogs :( I hope too that they had a home to go to!!

What a week. I didn't train the past three days :eek: due to a combination of work, a cold, and going out for dinner. I admit I didn't read last week's thread, though I hope everyone is well and enjoying the prospect of the Thanksgiving week ahead! Any Turkey trotting happening? Okay, edited to mentioned that I now went back to last week's thread and skimmed it, and see that Meg asked the same thing :)

Also edited to add personal comments re: things discussed on last week's thread:

Meg, sounds like you are getting in some good, consistent runs! Great going.

Robyn, thanks for the workout report. Good variety as usual!

Les, congrats on scratching things off my list! The end is in sight... the end is in sight... just keep repeating that to yourself :D

hearty greetings to Kathy, Vicci, Susan, TKay (are you out there??), Carrie, and everyone else.

I really need to run today. Tomorrow is the town Santa Claus parade and we are parade marshals again this year. I've also decided to make my food gifts early this year, if I can. I figure people can always use them for early entertaining, and might enjoy them more before the full onslaught of goodies starts.

Oh, and I also need to buy a dress for a holiday party. I never enjoy buying "dress up" clothes, even though I do like buying clothes in general and don't have a lot of issues finding things that fit (except when they are too big or long). This year, though, I've already spied a couple of potential candidates in a store so just need to go try them on and hopefully one will fit the bill. The leader in my mind is a dress in a deep shade of red (perfect for a formal-ish Christmas evening event), snug on top and slightly flared skirt. I want to go with a colour instead of another LBD. Anyway, we'll see how it goes! Sorry for the hijack ;)

I'm also looking forward to hearing about Kathy's trip to Costa Rica!

Take care, all!

[Leslie Ferguson]

hanks for starting Julie. Sorry that you're having running issues but getting over PF is plenty. I wish I had some recommendations about getting over the feeling of tired bones but that's not something that I'm used to working with - sorry. Good that your found a good gym with a yoga program - it sounds like you really miss that. Oh how I remember the grey at 4:00 pm from years gone by - one of the few reasons that I might not want to live in the PacNorthwest.
Eva - Sorry about the wair quality down there - sounds prety terrible. Cograts on your 10K and the remainder of your workouts. Nice of you and your friends to help the two dogs too.
Nat - I hope you got a run in today and that your dress shopping goes well. It sounds like a truly divine dress that has captured your eye. Enjoy being a marshal for the parade tomorrow. I'm happy to be checking things off and probably by Dec 1st it will be down to a paper and a final.

I skipeed my run today though. It was quite chilly (for DC) but I did go out and participated in a homeless walk (5K) in Dc around the Mall. It was pretty windy and I think the wind chill was something around 18-20 degrees. Had 75 people from school walking in the walk and probably 100,000 people all total (at least that's what it looked like). We didnt' cross the "starting" line until 21 minutes after the start and there was a long line of people all around the Tidal Basin (between the Jefferson Memorial and the Memorial Bridge). Nice to walk with friends but got terrible chapped lips in the process.

Need to get ready for the remainder of the day. We're heading over to my internship Parish for a wine tasting and dinner/auction to raise money for a Dental Missionary in Liberia. It should be a fun time - just may end up being a long night.

Have a great weekend and stay warm. Happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

I'm back...

Les, that sounds like a good workout and fun event to me. How wonderful that there was such a huge turnout for that good cause. Must have been a sight to see all those people. Did LW do the walk as well? Sorry to hear about the chapped lips, though (ouch).

Your evening sounds splendid, too. You go to the neatest events!

I bought the dress I mentioned. It was the first I tried on and the best by far. I am actually really excited about it, which is saying something for me and that kind of wear (now, gear on the other hand I get plenty excited about as you know ;)).

And, more on point... I got in my run as well, and it felt sooo good.

Now I've got meatloaf in the oven (improvising on a new-to-me recipe) and puttering around the house. DH went to see the new James Bond with a friend but I'm not a fan so opted for homebody time instead. Tonight we'll catch up with an old friend over a glass of wine.

Best to all - stay warm! (Easy for Eva, I'm sure! ;))

[aggie94]

Natasha, glad you got your run in. Will we get to see a picture of the dress?? I'm intrigued!

Les, how was last night's dinner/wine tasting?

I too was wondering if anyone had Turkey Trot plans. There are a few in the Phoenix area on Thursday but none that close to me. The 5K I would have done, that is right down the street from me, was yesterday. :confused: I didn't even learn of it until Friday night, after I had finished a rough 10K. I thought all Turkey Trots were on Thanksgiving!

I met up with my Y buddy again this morning, for another 6 miler. This time instead of doing our usual path along the canal, we went to a local park and ran the perimeter loop, which was 1.5 miles. Four times around got a little monotonous, although the weather was gorgeous (temps in the 50s) and the change of scenery was nice.

[VictoriaL]

Go for the yoga Julie, sounds as though you've missed your time away from it! I hope that this week is better on the running front. :)

Eva, apparently the air quality today was a lot better than it was on Friday and you enjoyed your run a lot more.

Les, you walked in a wind chill in the teens?!?!? Wow. You do need to pick up a tube or two of chapstick, though (actually the Burts Bees stuff rocks, in my book). Good luck with your studies in the coming week.

That dress sounded gorgeous Nat! I second the request for a picture...

We were at the lake house for a few days. Our 25th anniversary is on the 10th and we're hosting a gathering of our very closest friends on the 6th, so we hauled down a bunch of festive decorations and spent the days in a decorating frenzy. It feels funny to be doing this before Thanksgiving!

I forgot my running shoes (I have to buy new ones for no other reason than I will keep the old pair at the lake house), but went out anyway using my "around the house" cross trainers. I hope that my shins don't pay for this... Anyway, I managed 35 minutes of mostly hills and it felt great. It may be my last time this week as the forecast is cold and rain/ snow through Friday. Where is that global warming when I need it?!?!

A busy week ahead, but I'm looking forward to turkey on Thanksgiving (and the days of leftovers afterward!). I was considering a 5k on that day in Pittsburgh, but the weather looks lousy. Yes, I'm a weenie! ;)

Hope that you all had a nice weekend!

[Robyn1007]

Nat that dress sounds gorgeous! I agree, pictures please!

Eva that loop sounds interesting, would be a good choice for me right now. I should see what I can find around here.

Les sounds like the walk was a good break from everything.

Vicci I hope your shins don't act up. I've come to realize that my body will not tolerate workouts with the wrong footwear.

Well, I'm still fighting this stooopid cold. I did a light strength workout with my coach yesterday and then she watched me swim, gave me some pointers but thought that overall I look pretty good. :D Then I came home and took a 3.5 hour nap. :eek: She has started offering a Sunday spin class and since I decided not to ski this weekend I decided to go. I couldn't quite get to the 110 cadence level but was able to hold above 90 for most of the time so I was happy with that. After a quick eye recheck I came home for a 1.5 hour nap. Guess my body is still fight.

[SusanMac]

Hi guys! Yes, I'm still alive!

Nat - I also want to see the dress! I've been wondering about your DH lately. He did his first Half IM this year. Just bought a tri bike. Is an IM in the works for 2009??

KValley - Your yoga sounds awesome! The achy, tired bones sounds totally normal with how much you've been running lately. Your half-marathon is this weekend, isn't it??!! Are you still doing it? (ya never know with injuries, the move, etc)

Robyn - 3 hour nap? You definitely have caught a bug. Take care of yourself.

Les - Congrats on your fundraiser walk! Did you snag tix for the inauguration, by chance??

Aggie - I never think of you guys as having bad air quality. Bummer!

Well, crazy week for me...and more to come. My NY trip was a big success. But, I didn't get a run in. Schedule wasn't conducive, and I wasn't in a great location. On my free morning, I chose to catch up on work instead of battling running for 20 seconds - stopping at stop light - dodging city commuters, etc.

This past week we were on vacation in Asheville NC. We drove, took Bode, and rented a cabin for the entire week. It was so fabulous! And a much needed break from everything. We only went on one official run, but did tons of hiking every day. I had never been to the Smoky Mountains or Blue Ridge Parkway. It was really incredible.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v647/119/5/1050896673/n1050896673_210306_8891.jpg

Now...we're getting ready to host my in-laws for T-day. Then leave Sat for a business trip to Tel Aviv. It's my first time there, and I"m excited. But, my workouts are going to be really erratic for the next several weeks.

re: Turkey Trots.....we have one here that I'd love to do, but no one else in the family is doing it. I don't mind going to races on my own....just don't feel like a very good hostess to leave the family behind, so I'll probably skip it. Bummer.

[Natasha]

Eva, sounds like a much more enjoyable run! Good to hear it.

Susan, welcome back! Sounds like an idyllic time and like you got some well-deserved rest. Love the pic of you and Bode! I've never been to that area but it sounds wonderful. Re: your question, DH and I were absolutely in love with those bikes so when he saw them at that price, he couldn't resist. But I do tease him that now that he has that rocket of a bike, he has to do an IM. He's not discounting the idea, and to be fair, he had already given it a bit of thought before my teasing began ;), but his preference would be to do an expedition-length adventure race. The main thing with both types of events right now is training time -- he's swamped with work (as am I) so training for any event longer than a 1/2 IM might not be realistic. We'll see, though! I do know that my run club is planning a 2010 IM event, but am not sure yet where that will be (and I seriously doubt we would go, anyway).

Marshaling the Santa Claus parade was lots of fun but probably not the best for me recovering from a cold. I now have a lovely-sounding cough. As far as colds go, though, it's been about as good as it gets. Later I did a spin but had a cramp in my lower back about 30 mins in - very strange - so opted to stop and relax on the couch instead :p Back to the parade though - the sun came out just in time for the parade, the turnout was tremendous once again, and I loved seeing all the happy kids (and parents, and dogs), and the loooong line of floats going down the historic part of town, with the country road and the hills looming behind. I forgot to bring my camera, unfortunately! Next year.

Robyn, feel better soon! Smart decision not to ski this weekend and to try the spin class instead.

Vicci, I can see why you couldn't pass up that run and it sounds like your body still loves you! I agree with you about Burt's Bees (but was disappointed to hear it was bought out some time ago -- was it by Clorox?? I think so).

I tried to find a pic of the dress online but no such luck, so I'll have to take a photo and post. Hope you guys aren't expecting something nicer than it is now!

Happy Monday, all! So envious of you and your abbreviated week :)

[Leslie Ferguson]

Lots of business since I was here last... So I'll start with the easier questions.
Susan - Love the picture and I hope that you like Tel Aviv. I'd love to go back to Israel, loved being in Haifa, Jerusalem, and Capernum years ago. I hope that your Thanksgiving isn't too stressful and that your family has fun at your house. No, LW didn't walk with us - tweaked her knee slipping on the steps and definitely doesn't do the cold.
Robyn - With all those naps I'd say that you're either burning yourself out or fighting something. Smart call to stay inside for a while this weekend. Thanks for the note on FB too - life really was good yesterday.
Vicci - I'm a nut and I admit it. I don't mind the cold as long as I don't get cold in the process (once I get cold it takes forever to warm up). Layers were the key on Saturday - 5 shirts and a coat, polypro pants and Goretex made it okay. Burts Bees is good stuff, just need to remeber that being out in the open with all the wind will be as cold as it is. Happy anniversary to you too.
Eva - Dinner and the wine tasting were great. Liberian food is interesting (good), lots of rice and lots of spices. :D I'd have figured that a Turkey Trot would be on Thanksgiving but that's just me too. Good couple of runs for you over the weekend.

I'm going to try to get out after class this afternoon and spin. I finally set up my road bike over the weekend so I could put it on the trainer in my basement - way too cold to ride outside and certainly after sunset (4:40) is bad for riding. I know that there won't be a Turkey Trot in my future this year - Appomattox doesn't have a lot of races (at least nothing shorter than 50k) and I'll be at my folks place for the holiday.

Best to all, back to studies and my poetry for the day (I have to write a poem as part of my next sermon).

Happy trails,
Les

[KValley]

Natasha- can't wait to see a photo of the party dress (with you in it, natch!). The parade sounds like such fun, though I'm sorry it brought about a cough and sniffles. It sounds like you did just the right thing laying low and resting.

You too, Robyn - it's frustrating to kick into a lower gear or take time off completely, but know that you'll come out stronger for the rest.

Les- your DC walk for the homeless must have been such a powerful experience. Now here's a challenge for me (I work as a beer/wine steward at our store)- pairing wines with Liberian food! Sounds delicious and such a fun evening. I wish you an inspired work session for your sermon and poetry writing!

Eva Hope you are having cleaner air and strong runs. And you can run your own Turkey Trot this week- heck with the oddly-scheduled races!

Susan WHat a beautiful photo! I'm so glad you had a chance to get away, unwind and enjoy beautiful hikes. Brendan and I camped in that area several years ago- Asheville is such a great little city. Safe travels to Tel Aviv this week.

Vicci Happy Party Preparations! And an early Congratulations on your 25th- what a celebration!

Meg, Kathy, Carrie, Tkay- everyone- I wish you a Thanksgiving week of peace and blessings!

No Turkey Trot for us- we'll be resting up for Sunday's 1/2. We do plan a long bike ride Thursday morning before carpooling with Dad and Mary down to Puyallup- Brother & SIL hosting dinner this year.

Brendan and I had a heart to heart about Sunday- neither of us feels up to par in our training- not even remotely close- so we're just going to take the 13 miles as it comes. If we feel like running, we will, walking, we will. Probably a combo of both. I'm slightly frustrated- I ran my best 10k in September and a good 1/2 in June, so I feel like I'm going backwards. But first, do no harm! I just want to keep running through the winter and work to get past my current stiff and aching bones. Yoga again this morning, as well as cross-training and weights. Feels good.

It IS early, but the forecast for Sunday's race is sunny and 58 degrees. Pretty darn fantastic for the final day of November.

Happy Monday, all.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les- your DC walk for the homeless must have been such a powerful experience. Now here's a challenge for me (I work as a beer/wine steward at our store)- pairing wines with Liberian food! Sounds delicious and such a fun evening. I wish you an inspired work session for your sermon and poetry writing!

If it's any help we had two wines from South Africa on Saturday, all from Stellanbosch region:

2007 Ken Forrester Sauvingnon Blanc
2007 Ken Forrester Pinotage (forgot the vintage)

There were some other wines from Chile and California that didn't stand out as much and if I remember them I'll post them for you.

Gotta fly.
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Back-to-backs...
I had a good day today at school and with a workout. I presented my first poem in forever today (first one written since I was in high school). It was a bit nerve wracking because I'm not very familiar with poems. The second time around was better than the first (got rid of the butterflies). I came home and took a spin on my bike that is now firmly planted on the trainer. Not a moment too soon either, it was drizzling today and I may be fighting something because I have a scratchy throat - probably hanging on from walking in 15 degree wind chills.

A techincal question for others with bike trainers - do you change the set up on yor bike to put it in the trainer (seat height for instance) or just go with it as is? My bike feels weird in the trainer now that the seat is the right height for street riding. But I don't want to futz with it - it took too much to get it right (thanks to Nat's DH - and Toronto is a long trip to reset my bike ;) ).

Good news from LW and her quilt at the auction on Saturday - it sold for $300. :D That was great!

Off to do a little reading and head to bed so I can lick this scratchy throat. See you all in the funnies.
Happy trails,
Les

[Robyn1007]

I don't change my setup on the trainer, maybe your handlebars are sitting a bit low though? If you do decide to change the seat height mark the current height with a permanent marker on your seat post so you can reset for outdoor training.

ETA: I'm being good and taking a day off today. Stooopid cold. Came home, napped for about 30 minutes and plan to go to bed early.

[Natasha]

Congrats to LW, Les!! Hope you don't get sick. I don't change my setup on the bike trainer and neither does DH. Sorry to hear that LW tweaked her knee.

Robyn, smart girl to take today off. You won't regret it.

More personals later, but for now I wanted to say I'm grateful for my DH, my pup, my family and friends... and my home gym!! It was a bit of a tough day (nothing serious - just a bit challenging). So you better believe I looooved the endorphins I got from my hard spin!

[VictoriaL]

Yahoo! No shin issues! :D The restrengthening program after my ankle healed obviously did something good to the "other" leg as well.

Nothing but stretching today, but weights are planned for tomorrow.

What a nice photo Susan! Have a safe trip this week.

I agree with you about Burt's Bees (but was disappointed to hear it was bought out some time ago -- was it by Clorox?? I think so)
I hadn't heard that, Nat. Wah! I know that I shouldn't, but that makes me a lot less enthusiastic about the brand, now. I reluctantly use clorox when I have to, and then I will let is set for several days (to decompose back into salt) then flush it down the drain with lots of water to dilute. I hate the stuff!

An interesting article:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/01/the_back_story.php

Julie, you shouldn't think of it as going backwards (look what you accomplished!). You need to work on some issues, and it has to be done slowly so you don't undo what you're achieved so far.

Poems, Les?! You're certainly experiencing a wide variety of things during your time at the seminary! And congrats to LW on the sale of her quilt. :D

Robyn, rest as much as you want-- that's how your body heals itself. I don't think that you'll turn into a couch potato or anything!

Off to bed. I spent the day slogging through the rain, looking for particular decorative objects for the party next weekend and it tired me out as much as an afternoon of painting! Hope that you're all staying warm and dry.

[Kathy B]

Nothing to report at all from the last several days. Well, I did do some yoga and weights over the WE, but that's it. Our schedule has just been too hectic. Working tomorrow after a conference all day today, so still won't get anything in. I fear I am falling off the wagon! We are supposed to do a Turkey Trot Thursday, and I don't think I'll be up to my best due to the little I've been getting in. Supposed to be a nice day, though, so there is that. Then we have 25 coming for Thanksgiving meal at 11:00 AM. Wednesday will be all about cooking and cleaning. Thank goodness they are all bringing food to help with the meal!

Guess I'll see what the rest of the week brings exercise-wise.

In the meantime, wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! :)

[1MegMeg]

Good morning everyone! Hooray it's almost Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday! :)

Been getting in 5K runs 3-4 times/week, which has been really nice. I am also seeing my physical therapist again. A couple of weeks ago DBF noticed that my stride was not even on my left side (left femur was the one that broke). I went back to PT and sure enough I was running unevenly....just on my toe/ball-of-foot on the left side, which made for a shorter stride and making the right leg do more than its fair share. So I have more strengthening exercises to do, but I think just being aware of it has helped a lot. Whenever I run I think about the heel-toe motion and really make a conscious effort to make sure it's happening.

Kathy - Have fun at your Turkey Trot! Even if it's not your best time, have fun! 25 people for Thanksgiving? Wow that's a lot!! How many turkeys are you cooking?

Vicci - Glad your shins are feeling better!!!

Nat - A home gym sounds wonderful! I would love to get a treadmill for home, especially once it warms up again. I don't think I'll be able to run outside in the summer!

Robyn - How are you feeling? I hope you can nip your cold in the behind!! Everyone in my office was sick last week and I am hoping I don't get it too.

Les - Glad you had a good class and presentation yesterday! Public speaking/presentation + poem is extra nerve wracking hehe! Congratulations to LW on her quilt sale!

Julie - Running a 1/2 marathon is definitely an accomplishment, regardless of if you run, walk some, what your time is, etc. Don't feel like you are going backwards. You have a good mind set though...take care of your body first!

Susan - Love the picture of you and Bode in NC! Just beautiful!

Eva - Weird, I thought all Turkey Trots were on actual Thanksgiving too! Glad the weather's cooled off a bit for you!

[SusanMac]

KathyB - 25??! 25?!! I will join you in falling off the wagon

Nat - you are good inspiration. I had a stressful work day, but instead of a workout I just had a beer :-)

KValley - Your attitude for this weekend's race sounds perfect. Just have a good time with your DH and stay healthy!

Les - I don't change my bike setup for the trainer either. But, I do agree that it has a very different 'feel' when you first start using it. I tend to sit upright more often on the trainer, for example. The drops just feel too awkward indoors. You'll get used to it

We only have the inlaws coming for Tday, which is fine by us. I tend to like smaller gatherings for holidays, haven't seen them in ages, and really have fun with them. They're also bringing their puppy. This will be the first time he's met a cat....should be interesting! (and entertaining) I"m also making a brand new, never tested stuffing. I'm so daring!!

No workout for me today. Does dusting, scrubbing bathroom floors, writing reports and updating PPTs count? ;-) I do love Tday, though. I know it will all be worth it

[Robyn1007]

Well, I've just been given orders to chill for the week. I still feel crappy and told coach and she's told me to just take the week off. I might still sneak in the Turkey Trot depending on how I feel but I'm taking Monday-Wednesday off at least. Sure is a different me when I'm sad and anxious about taking time off rather than looking forward to a break. :eek::(

[Natasha]

Meg, great job on the runs and good luck with the stretching.

Julie, that's smart of you and hubby to manage your expectations and just enjoy the day. I understand how you may feel that you're regressing, but 13 miles is nothing to sneeze at. Enjoy it - the weather sounds like it will be fabulous!

Kathy, 25 for dinner and maybe a Turkey Trot to boot? You never cease to amaze me :)

Vicci, sorry for mentioning the Clorox thing... don't want to wreck the brand for you! I haven't noticed any variation in quality, FWIW.

Robyn, a week off - I'm with you that I would not be happy about that! Rest up and if you have time, you may consider doing some "virtual" training... read training books, get inspired by tri and running mags, maybe do some light stretching (if that's okay), maybe do up a training schedule or scout out future races... and then hit the ground running next week (literally!).

I had another strong spin today. Not quite as hard but then I didn't have as much stress to blow off today :) In fact, I had no stress to blow off.

I'm going across the country later this week for a few days (yay!), so will catch you later this week if I can. In case I don't make it back here before Friday or next week, I'll wish you all an absolutely wonderful Thanksgiving now. Eat well, enjoy family and friends, and keep on moving!

[Robyn1007]

Robyn, a week off - I'm with you that I would not be happy about that! Rest up and if you have time, you may consider doing some "virtual" training... read training books, get inspired by tri and running mags, maybe do some light stretching (if that's okay), maybe do up a training schedule or scout out future races... and then hit the ground running next week (literally!).

Hahaha! You should see the training/race schedule that my coach has already done. I'm scheduled out down to the half hour through the end of September. :eek: Races are already chosen as well. (2 sprint tris, 1 olympic tri, 1 century ride, 1 aquabike duathlon)

Have a safe trip Natasha!

[Natasha]

Hahaha! You should see the training/race schedule that my coach has already done. I'm scheduled out down to the half hour through the end of September. :eek: Races are already chosen as well. (2 sprint tris, 1 olympic tri, 1 century ride, 1 aquabike duathlon)

!

Why am I not surprised? :D What about future races (dream races)? Visualizing and meditating? Reading sports nutrition books? Reading gear reviews? C'mon, there are always fun training-related things you can do when you can't train (I'm not giving up :p))

Thanks for the safe trip wishes! I know one thing I will be doing - visiting the local Mountain Equipment Co-op as part of DH's and my quest to visit every one across Canada! I know I'll end up buying something there, too. Souvenirs we'll actually use!

Take care,
Nat

[aggie94]

Susan, what a fantastic picture of you and Bode! I love it, and the setting looks gorgeous.

Robyn, sorry for the coach's orders but it sounds like rest is what your body needs. Looking forward to hearing race reports from you as you conquer your 2009 schedule!

Natasha/B], have a wonderful and safe trip! We'll look forward to seeing a pic of you in your new fabulous dress!

[B]Julie, good luck with your 1/2 marathon run (we won't even call it a race ;)) this weekend. As hard as it is to do (I do it way too often), try not to think of it as going backwards. Every day is a different day, and some days are better than others. You're moving forward just by going through with your commitment to do the run and by having a different attitude about it - take it easy, enjoy the scenery and the people and the peace, and most importantly, have a great time.

I just returned from a 4-miler this evening and made plans with some other folks from the Y to run on Thursday morning. Looking forward to starting Thanksgiving Day with a nice 6-mile run. Hoping the weather cooperates for us this weekend. Today turned grey and cloudy, with rain in the forecast for the long weekend. I hope it holds out -I don't run in the rain. :o

We have quiet Thanksgiving plans with friends, just 6 of us. Afterwards we'll watch our Aggies get slaughtered in their annual rivalry game against Texas. :rolleyes: Friday, we will probably drive down to Tucson to visit with BIL and his family, and Saturday & Sunday is catching up on work. :(

Hi to everyone else!! Have a wonderful rest of the week and a Happy Thanksgiving!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Have a safe trip Nat I hope you and DH have a good time and expect that you WILL come back with all kinds of souvenirs. Thank you for your Thanksgiving Day wishes too.
Eva - TT/A&M game - one of my classmates was talking about that today too. Big thing in his house, his sister went to Tech and he went to A&M - no conversation in the house on Thanksgiving until after the game. :)
Robyn - Be good to yourself and rest - even with all the races coming up you won't be any good if you're overtired or sick.

Howdy to Meg and Vicci - school is definitely more right brained than I'm used to.

Thanks for the comments about bike set up. I'm probably not going to change anything in the seat but may raise my handlebars a little only so I can get a little better position or to have someplace useful to put my book when I'm riding. I'm not used to sitting upright without using the handlebars (I'm not coordinated enough to ride without my hands) so I hope that my discomfort passes.

I ran tonight - 45/38 in failing light. Ran for about 65 minutes and felt pretty good. I love running in the cold - makes you feel like you're really alive. :cool: Definitely like cold better than hot anymore.

Break starts tomorrow but I have a meeting with my professor in my Sermon (Homiletics) class at 9 am. Then it's off to the hinterlands of Southern Virginia in Appomattox.

Check you all later and have a great Thanksgiving.
Les

[VictoriaL]

Good Morning, all!

A very quick one today. Since it's cold and snowy, I opted for a 30m session on the EB. I wish that the roads around here were suitable for running (the trails can get a little slippery in inclement weather), but at least I have "the bike". ;)

Not a big Thanksgiving here, more energy is directed toward the anniv. party next weekend, but I plan to overindulge a bit so perhaps another EB session later today. Or a walk in the snow.:rolleyes:

Take care, and have a safe one!

Well. I had thought I pasted a nice little graphic here, a Happy Thanksgiving with falling leaves, but it turns out to be an ad for the site there I found the graphic! Sorry.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

[Kathy B]

A quick break while I have some things in the oven and a load of laundry going. DD and I went to the CC early and I did weights and 30 min on the TM, so yea!! Tomorrow is supposed to be beautiful weather, and the kids are excited about the Turkey Trot. I am sure it will be fun, even if it is not a fast race for me.

Believe it or not, I am related to all 25 that will be here for dinner. I have a pretty big extended family with several sibs and their families. My mom offered to make the turkey and bring it since she lives close, so that helps a LOT. For me it is orchestrating enough tables/chairs/dishes/refrigerator space that is the real challenge. Our house is not particularly large, but we are centrally located, so we often end up with everyone here. It's always great to see everyone, though, and as DH pointed out, these are the things that the kids will always remember. I have had the kids helping, and I may have overworked them. DS finally started after me with a pair of handcuffs from our old toybox! :eek: :p

Vicci, I can't believe you are having snow when it is so mild here. The EB sounds like a good fallback. I don't blame you for putting more energy into the anniversary party...that is a really big deal! Are you hosting the get-together at your lake house?

Les, I thought I heard something about a shooting on the mall the same day you were walking. Did that happen? Or am I confusing it with some other news story? Hope you are feeling better!

Aggie, is your 6-mile run an individual thing, or will you have others joining you? Nice that the weather in your area is cooling off a bit. Sounds like you have a relaxed holiday planned. Enjoy!

Natasha, good job on your spins! Your cross country trip sounds like one you are looking forward to, so I am guessing it is for fun. Have a great time, either way! And thanks for the reminder to "keep moving". In the end, that's the important thing anyway. :)

Susan, I am sure scrubbing bathrooms counts as a workout. Trust me! Hope you have fun with the IL's and their puppy. My niece is bringing her new puppy, too. (What's one more?)
Your trip sounds wonderful. We were just in that same area this summer, although we didn't get as far as the Blue Ridge parkway. We stayed in Gatlinburg, TN, which is at the base of the Smokies. I agree that it is a beautiful area!

Julie, I hope you have a good 1/2 Sunday. It sounds like the weather will be perfect, and as someone else said, a half is no small thing. I think about it, but don't know if I have it in me to ever do one. I am sure once you get started, the fun of just running the race will take over, and hopefully you can just enjoy the day.

Robyn, a week off sounds very wise. Even if you weren't fighting off an illness, you would need to rest up for that schedule your coach has for you! I might even ask for a couple of "snow days" if I were you. ;) Feel better!

Meg, good job on your 5K runs! You have a very observant BF for him to pick up on your altered gait. Good for him (and you!). Hope things are straightening up for you. I think I would find it difficult to focus on my stride throughout a run. Good for you for working it out!

Well, break time should have been over a while ago, so I better get back to my chores. Take care all!

[Natasha]

Kathy, how funny about your son! Enjoy the orchestrating and extended family time! I can't imagine a Thanksgiving dinner with 25 relatives, since many of my relatives are geographically scattered - sounds like a blast! Good luck with the race, even if you're not looking for a super fast time.

Eva, enjoy Tucson and don't work too hard Sat. and Sun.! Same to you, Les, about your trip to your folks' place, and about not working too hard!

I got in a fantastic run today, just over 50 minutes' worth. Loved it!

Best of luck with your race, Julie and your DH!

Vicci, we have snow too, or at least flurries for now. DH is driving home right now from one of our local snowbelt areas, so I'm hoping he won't run into any snowsqualls.

DH is not joining me on this trip because it's for work, so the downside is leaving him and the pup, which I never like. Still, there should be some pretty neat things to see and do, so I'm stoked about that, and the work aspect also sounds very interesting.

Best to all for the big holiday!!

[VictoriaL]

Well, most of the snow had disappeared by late afternoon so I was able to go on a walk. Spooky joined me for the first part then waited until I returned and finished with me. I've never had a cat who liked to "walk" before!

Kathy, bless you, 25 relatives at your house for dinner... :) Good luck with everything! And how funny about DS wanting to "handcuff" you for a bit so that she could have a break! :p
And, yes, the anniversary dinner will be at the lake house next weekend. I'm so excited, yet I wake up during the night with it on my mind...

Nat, have an enjoyable and safe trip!

Again, (and still without a graphic!) have a nice Thanksgiving everyone and be safe in your travels. :)

[Robyn1007]

Just a quick report to say I did my first Turkey Trot!!!! I'm super excited even though I didn't run the whole way (hey I'm fighting this bug and I'm at 8,000 feet of elevation) but I had a blast. Now, where's my turkey and stuffing? I earned it!

[Natasha]

Congrats, Robyn! This was your first ever running race, right? Was it a 5k? Very exciting stuff for you. I guess that means you're cleared by your coach to train? Good stuff.

Vicci, that is sooo cute about Spooky :)

Happy Thanksgiving, all :D

[Robyn1007]

Well, it was my first as an adult, I've run 10ks and even 12ks as a child but that was too long ago to count right? ;):p It was a 5k and I really felt like if my lungs would coopoerate (and my aunt and uncle's dog wasn't pulling me all over the place on snow roads) I probably could have run most if not all of it so I was quite happy with the result of around 40 minutes (I didn't get my heart rate monitor started until just after halfway and it took me 18 minutes from there although that leg had more walking than the first half). It was a pretty informal race organized by neighbors up here in Eagle-Vail to benefit a local youth charity. We were greeted at the finish by bloody marys and screwdrivers!

Honestly, I didn't talk to my coach specifically about it and although I sound horrid with this high squeaky voice that people are sure I'm in pain (my uncle told me he wished he had some chloroseptic for me, I said it didn't hurt and he said it hurts him to listen to me. :p) but really I feel pretty decent. I can breathe fine through my nose so now just a lingering cough and voice loss. I'll continue to take it easier this week than planned but I'm glad I was able to get out for a run, I was feeling really restless!