Virtual Running Buddies 12/12

[SusanMac]

Happy Friday! Luckily, this week has gone by quickly, as I'm ready for the weekend again. I don't have a workout to report (other than a few squats & pushups...at least that's something), but thought I'd kick things off anyway.

IM World Championships - is on NBC this weekend. Sat at 2:30pm ET. Check it out! Always inspiring.

Les - loved the pictures from LW's party. Very cute in the hat! How is your paper coming along?

Newsomz - Remind us when the Paris Marathon is. April, I think? That one would be soooo fabulous to do!

KValley - I'm in the no-race-on-the-calendar funk right now myself. I'm telling myself I deserve the break, but I also know how painful it is to start up again

Robyn - skiing this weekend? ya'll have fresh snow, I think

Our local Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis is tomorrow. I don't typically run this one (not wild about the route), but it does go close to our house. So, once again I'll go out w/Bode to cheer for everyone. It's very fun!

[KValley]

Thanks for getting us up and running (ha ha), Susan. You must be so ready for the weekend- to have traveled such a distance, followed by a full week of work... Have fun cheering on the runners this weekend!

Carrie- sounds like you are good to go gear-wise. You will have such an extraordinary time. Why do I think that you are going to be in Grenoble? Was this ever mentioned or did I dream it up? Brendan & I are planning a mid-autumn trip to France- we want to just plant ourselves in one place (likely, the Luberon) and explore a new-to-us region. We first thought to skip Paris altogether since we've spent a good amount of time there, then looked at each other and said "Skip Paris? Sacre bleu! " :p We decided it would be a crime to not spend a couple of days...

Robyn how's that upper body today?

Hello and Happy Weekend Meg, Melissa, Natasha, Les, Kathy, Terri, Eva.. everyone!

So I pooh-poohed this weekend's weather forecast of chill temps and snow, but now I'm not snickering. It looks pretty dreadful- temps in the teens by Monday, 3ft of snow in the Olympic and Cascade Mnts, possible snow here in the ville- forecast is a trace to 8 inches! It has just started raining. My planned run tomorrow at Green Lake will be bundled up and head down.

Off to get a Christmas tree later today. A massage this afternoon and drink with a girlfriend.

Worked late last night- hosted a wine tasting at the store that was all bubbles and sparkles (sparkling wine, spumante, prosecco, Champagne, cremant). Went great, I slept well and had a good w/o this morning. Yoga immediately afterward- my hips and lower back are saying Thank you thank you!

[Robyn1007]

DARN IT! I can't believe I'm going to miss the IM tv! :mad: It might be the one time I wish I had DVR. :(

Susan, have fun cheering for a change.

Julie, you might be dreading the weather change but my ski friends up that direction are doing major snow dances. Stay warm and safe.

I've got a busy weekend ahead. Coaching tomorrow and, yes, we're expecting snow tomorrow in the mountains. It will move into Denver Saturday night which is going to make for a slippery and chilly Jingle Bell run on Sunday. I'm going to head out at lunch today and buy some YakTrax. I think I'll be okay layer wise with running tights, wool socks, wicking tank, wicking baselayer zip-T top, lightweight breathable jacket, my spring ski gloves and of course my green hat seen in my avatar (I love that hat!). If it's really cold I'll add a fleece vest. Right now it's predicting highs in the teens and actually dropping through the day. Yowza, I'm used to dressing for skiing in this stuff but not running. Any other tips from experienced cold weather runners? Maybe I'll put a wicking baselayer under my running tights? I know, all this sounds ridiculous for someone who loves cold weather but this is a whole new animal for me.

[SusanMac]

Robyn - given that you live there, if temps are mid-teens then you won't need 2 leg layers. Plus, you can't peel those off like on top. Trust me, your legs will get warm very fast. Your top layers sound about right w/out the vest. My very fav running gloves are ones from REI where the fingers are a mitten, but you can peel it back to expose your fingers when you start to sweat. An excellent investment!! Have fun in your race.

KValley - an evening of bubbly sounds so wonderful right now!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thanks for starting Susan. The party was a blast and it was fun to have Kathy wear the hat on Saturday and for me to wear it on Monday. My paper, it's gonig well and I hope that I'll have it done by this afternoon so I can read it over the weekend to edit but for the most part it's all there. :eek:

Robyn - I'm with Susan, I doubt you'll need all the bottom half layers. Considering I don't live in a cold climate but even with the temps in the teens (when I've had the opportunity to run in those conditions) I've been fine with heavier tights and maybe a pair of wind pants if it's really blowing or just at the start but something I can readily peel off after (or just before) I get started. I'm also ok with the top layers you mention without the vest. I second Susan's motion for the convertible gloves - they are one of the best things I've ever purchased.

Back to the mill - study break over if I want to get my paper done and get something recreational done before the school Chritmas Party tonight.

Happy trails,
Les

[Robyn1007]

Okay, thanks for the input guys. I went and bought some YakTrax Pro today so that I don't fall and take myself out for weeks. I don't have time to go investigate gloves at REI between now and then with my coaching schedule but I have my lightweight spring ski gloves and some fleece gloves so I'll just bring both and decide. My jacket thankfully has a big stow pocket in back (it converts to a vest) so I can always stuff gloves back there if needed. And the jacket has the thumb loopy thingy too so that will help.

[ktg0930]

Robyn - good luck on the run! I agree with Les and Susan that your layers sound just right. You won't need an extra layer on the bottom. Now, it's been a while since I've run in the teens, but I used to wear a wicking layer, then t-shirt and then jacket on top. My gloves are liner gloves and I usually end up taking them off. Have fun!

KValley - the wine tasting sounds like fun! I've volunteered to staff tables for an olive oil tasting on the 21st for Hanukkah at a local health food store. Should be interesting.

Susan - thanks for starting this week and enjoy cheering tomorrow.

Les - have fun at the Christmas party!

I had a nice run today after the past 2 missed days due to rain. I'm not back in my routine yet, though. And this is a bad time to not be exercising as much--what with all those cookies around!

Have a great weekend everyone!
Kathy

[Robyn1007]

Haha, as a skier t-shirts, at least cotton ones have long been banned from my body during exercise. As soon as they enter the mix you loose any benefit from your wicking layers.

Nice job on the run Ktg!

Les, enjoy the party, you deserve it!

[Natasha]

Susan, thanks for starting us off this week, and enjoy the TV coverage! I don't get NBC but maybe CBC will pick it up on Sportsweekend sometime (occasionally they have tri coverage). If not, not, but if so and I know about it, I'll watch.

Les, how was the party?

ktg, good job on those runs and enjoy the cookies! :)

Robyn, have fun at your race! You've gotten good advice from the fellow cold weather runners here. I think you'll really appreciate the YakTrax too.

KValley, the wine tasting sounds like a blast!

How are Carrie, Vicci (party news, please!!), TKay, Melissa, and everyone else doing?

I got in a good spin yesterday and we'll see what today brings :)

Oh yes, responding to a question (I think from Carrie) from a previous week about what gear I bought recently, I purchased a second thermal hoodie because I love my first one soooo much. This one is bright blue and it was really the ticket when the temps plummeted 20C in 12 hours. One of the best pieces of gear in my closet. This is what it looks like. My original is kind of berry coloured (but not the very berry you see from this link; my new one is "Oasis" (don't you love the colour names? ;)):

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=253437430 2873233&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442621833

I also bought another bike light - not for my bike, but for my pup as we put them on his collar for nighttime walks - and lastly, I bought another pair of full fingered biking gloves. I've had a couple of pairs from Specialized but they don't seem to last long for me (though my short fingered ones from them were fine). The new ones are more reinforced in the fingers, and to boot, they cost 1/2 what the Spec ones did.

So... a couple of you mentioned the convertible gloves as one of your best gear purchases ever, and I've mentioned the thermal hoodie as one. Anyone else want to share their thoughts on their best gear purchases? I have a mental list already as DH and I talk about this on occasion... will be back with more later if anyone is interested.

Have a lovely Saturday!!

[KValley]

Just returned from a really lovely run. I got in a couple of hills, some sprints and a steady, comfortable pace. Yesterday's blustery, wet weather gave way to partial clearing this morning- it's chilly- lower 30s- but beautiful and so far, dry. THe dire winter storm warning was cancelled and the worst of the weather has been pushed back until tomorrow....

Robyn, your NOrthwest ski buddies should be pleased- traction tires are required on the mountain passes that are open; this means SNOW.

Natasha- great idea to share gear favorites and tips. I'd have to say that YAKTrax have been my favorite inclement weather purchase. Robyn, I hope these work out for you! I don't have much call for them here, but they were fantastic when I lived in colder, snowy climes.

I will look for convertible gloves. Nat, I also really like that hoodie, too.

Today's temps during my run were low-mid 30s. I wore Brooks tech running pants/tights hybrid on bottom. Top layers were 2 LS tech shirts and a light poly jacket. Liner gloves, polar fleece cap over a poly/nylon earband. Robyn I agree with you about the cotton- nasty stuff for w/o.

Kathy- so glad you got out for a run after waiting out the rain.

Les- have a wonderful time at the party tonight!

DH and I are off to do some Christmas shopping for each other at U Village :)

[SusanMac]

Nat - I keep eying the running hoodies, but wasn't sure how much I'd actually use the hoodie part. When do you use the hood instead of a hat/headband? Does it bug you if you're talking in a group & need to turn your head? I'm intrigued!

Gear - At the Des Moines Marathon expo, they had the absolute coolest running belt for holding your ID, extra cash, keys, etc. Kicking myself for not buying one. Now I can't find them anywhere!!

We just got back from the Jingle Bell Run. It was a blast! We stood at the top of the course's toughest hill, with Bode and a cow bell. Definitely fun to see all the costumes. One of the running Santa's gave us candy canes for cheering! That cracked us up.

Robyn - You should know that the wind chill today is about 20....and there were about a dozen people racing in shorts!! Thought you'd appreciate that. Good luck tomorrow.

Have a great weekend, everyone! First Xmas party of the season last night. Going to see Milk tonight w/some friends, and get a Xmas tree some time this weekend. It's Merckx' first Xmas....I"m a bit nervous!

[Robyn1007]

Hey everyone! Not much coming out of me tonight as I am beat and barely holding my eyelids open at 7pm. I always forget how much coaching takes out of me. I love it but on top of the physical I get the mental exhaustion after playing herder to 5 5&6 year old kiddos. Things have been up in the air for coaching for the last week and a half but as of today it looks like I do have my regular position back. I'm really ecstatic about that.

Predicted air temp before any wind adjustment for race time is now thought to be 16 degrees. Eh, well, I'll just put extra layers in the car and adjust as needed when I'm there. I'm excited. I'm supposed to spin for an hour tomorrow as well. We'll see.

I'll catch up individually when I'm conscious.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Hey gang - thought I'd drive by and give a report and congratulate those who got out to run today in less than optimal weather. I had hoped to get out today but got wrapped up with finishing my paper, and it's done with the exception of a couple typos to change and a sentence or two to clarify.

In response to your questions about the party - it was a great time. There were a ton of folks and it was a formal affair (although Kathy and I didn't go formal). You can tell from some of the pictures just how formal it was last night. THe 6 presentable pictures from yesterday are posted on Facebook in my Christmas party album (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=54542&l=a7d17&id=654239289).

I hope that I can run a little tomorrow since I'm "only" studying after church.

Happy trails,
Les

[Robyn1007]

Haha, the wind shill right now is -11. If they let this race happen I'm going to be shocked. I'll still do it, thinking of at least taking my balaclava since I'm a little concerned about bare skin in these temps.

[Natasha]

Les, thanks for the link and I look forward to seeing those pics when I get a moment!

Robyn, brr, now that IS cold. How was the race (I'm assuming it wasn't cancelled)?

Susan, how fun to go out and cheer on everyone with Bode! That's always a nice way to spend some time and support the fellow runners in the community. Our pup has been to his share of races as well and loves the excitement and of course the fawning and attention he gets ;)

Back from a 55 minute run. Ever since I was away earlier this month, I'd had a craving to run through a part of town I hadn't run through for a while. (Yes, I crave routes or parts of routes and miss them when I don't see them for a while!) When I stepped out this morning, I realized it was raining a bit and that that would make things interesting on the parts that were already a bit snowy, but I ventured out all the same and just tred carefully and ran on the road when I could. Had a lovely time and enjoyed the neighbourhoods, fields, and farms. I also really wanted to run by myself and be alone with my thoughts, observations, and music. Very enjoyable and restorative, and as a bonus my speed wasn't half bad, especially given the conditions.

Ah yes - Susan, your question about the hoodie! The hood on this hoodie is four-panel so it lies flat on your head (no conehead effect) and is snug yet comfy. It doesn't get in the way of my peripheral vision, either. I've put it on before and then had a hat on top (but not for running - that was for hiking and things). I've also worn an earband or headband and put the hoodie overtop (for running). Today was a prime example of when it was very useful. I started out with my running cap, but it was windy and after about 10 minutes I gave up and took it off (and kept it off for the next 1/2 hour). When the rain picked up a bit, I put on the hood instead, and it provided some protection from the elements while not falling off or getting in the way. Hope this makes sense!

Happy Sunday, all!

[Robyn1007]

Hi all!

So, when I got out of my car to head for the start line this morning the temp was -1 with a feels like of -15. :eek: I added the fleece vest (it's fairly thin, a great ski layering piece as well) a balaclava and went with the spring ski gloves instead of light fleece ones. Overall that was a pretty good set up although I think I might have added some spandex shorts under the tights if I'd had them. It was definitely cold to start and just barely started feeling a bit overwarm in the last few hundred feet. The YakTrax were a great purchase as I never felt nervous with my footing. I ran/walked it as expected and was disappointed that I forgot my inhaler at home. I definitely felt it and had to walk a bit more than I hoped but all things considered I was happy with my performance of 13:55 minute miles and I was not last. :D It was a whopping 2 degrees when I returned to my car and the snow had started again.

[Robyn1007]

Meant to add, this is the jacket I used today and it's been a great purchase for me with the removable sleeves.

http://img.sierratradingpost.com/erez4/erez?src=ProductImages/1278F%5F03.tif&tmp=FullSize&redirect=0

[1MegMeg]

Robyn - Yay! I am very proud of you for running the jingle bell 5k! Glad to hear you had a good time! -15 is cooooold! I don't think I've ever been in a temperature that cold before!

Nat - Your run sounds so nice....such a pretty route! Glad you enjoyed it! That's one of the things I love about running. Not only is it great exercise, it's so rejuvenating for the mind too.

Susan - Did you get your tree this weekend? Do you get it from a farm where you can cut it down yourself? They don't have those in Florida hehe. The running belt you saw at the expo sounds great! I *really* need something like that. I run alone 99% of the time and realize that I should probably carry my cell phone with me, but I have nowhere to put it (shorts don't have pockets).

Julie - Glad you had a good run this weekend too! How's your new home? Are you getting unpacked and settled in after moving?

Hi and Happy Monday to Les, Kathy, Kathy, Vicci, Eva, and everyone.

This weekend was *busy*! My work Christmas party was Saturday night, DBF's was yesterday, and my friend who was working in London for 6 months (she came home around Thanksgiving) was in town visiting. So not too much relaxation time, but a very fun weekend. Managed to get in a run yesterday morning too. It was warm, upper 70s, but my time was good and I felt good.

Am going to do another 5k on January 31st. The race goes through Universal Studios. :)

[Kathy B]

Your weekend DOES sound fun, Meg! Good for you for getting in a run, too. The January 5K sounds like a good time, too. Temps in the 70's sound even better!

Wow, Robyn, that was one COLD race! Good job hanging in there and getting it done.

Natasha, your description of running by yourself is very similar to something DS told me once. He mentioned how he sees things when he is running that he never notices when going by the same areas in the car. I appreciate the scenery, too, but I find I often get into kind of a "zone" with my thoughts, and I don't always pay attention to the details of my surroundings.

Les, is your fall term about over? My kids have finals this week and they are done Friday at noon.

Susan, what did you think of "Milk"? I think I would like to see that one over the holidays. Sounds like you had a lot of plans this weekend with the run, a party, the tree and the movie. Hope it was all a great time!

Julie, Christmas shopping is still on my "to-do" list. Did you get it all done? Good job on your run!

Kathy, good job on your run, too! You are right that it is not a good time of year to miss workouts! The weather is pretty miserable here, but I am planning to hit the TM at home today.

We had a very full weekend, too, with a swim meet, a party and two concerts. Last night we went to a Christmas Jazz concert at our church. The musicians were local artists who are friends of the pastor. It was a great performance, and ended with the jazziest version of "Go Tell it on the Mountain" that I have ever heard in my life. The singer asked the others if they knew the music, they said no, she played a chord on the piano and said, "Oh well, it will be OK," and off they went. Incredible!

TM for me later today! Take care all!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drifting by... Robyn that was one cold race! :eek: It sounds like a lot of fun though and it also sounds like you were set with the right amount and types of clothes.

Drifting because this is finals week for me (answering Kathy B). I've got in in class final Thursday morning from 9-12 on the hardest subject I have this semester, Systematic Theology. (If you wonder, a decent discussion of what Systematic Theology (http://www.gotquestions.org/systematic-theology.html) is is on that link). The other test is a take-home final that I hope only takes a couple hours. Luckily (or unlickily) that test isn't due until 5:00 on Friday.

Maybe a run in the offing as a study break...

Off to study some more.

Happy trails,
Les

[SusanMac]

Robyn - Congrats on doing your race! You can feel virtuous for a good month after that! We are getting your crazy temps today -- thanks for sending them our way.

Nat - your run sounds great. I definitely get in the mood to run by myself & just be alone w/my thoughts & the scenery from time to time.

Kathy - Milk was really, really great. Sean Penn is just phenomenal, although the entire cast was really great. The opening scene sets a particular tone (in a physical way), yet the rest of the movie isnt' that way at all. Kind of odd. But overall really stellar. And educational for me. I knew the end....but didn't know anything about the rest of the story.

Yes, we did get a tree yesterday. The house looks festive now (just in time to host cooking club Tues night!)

DH and I also went for a run yesterday. About 40 minutes. We're not tracking time or distance right now. Just running. It felt good.

[newsomz]

Susan - Thanks for getting us started. Cheering on runners is always fun!

KValley - Sounds like a great wine tasting. I love sparkling wines. I have a sparkling rosé planned for Christmas Eve. Sounds like a wonderful run this weekend.

Robyn - Wow! I cannot believe you ran in those temps. I am in awe!!!

Les - Yay for exam week. I hope you're able to get a workout or two in this week.

Natasha - Cool hoodie! Did you get one of those frog bike lights? They are so cute! I'll have to think about my best gear purchase... The run through town sounds nice. Now you've got me craving a certain route :)

http://www.permaco.com/images/frogs_small.jpg

Meg - I hear you on the busy weekend. I helped set up/cook for a friend's Christmas party most of the day Saturday (after my run and a visit to the vet).. Then had a wedding on Sunday. Saturday morning was very chilly up here - temps around 35 :eek:

Kathy - The jazz concert sounds great. Did you get on the TM today?

I got in a 6 mi run with the running group on Saturday. A few 45 minute runs planned for this week. I should probably try to do a bit more since I've been eating cookies and party food! We'll see.

Happy trails to anyone I missed!!

[Leslie Ferguson]

A shout out to the gang! Good run ove the weekend Carrie. I hope that I can get out a couple times this week.

It sounds like you['re getting your Christmas stuff done Susan, a tree, presents etc. All good!

No run today but I did get one final done this evening. Definitely could have waited but there was no way I could have studied more so I just hopped in and took the test. Just under 3 hours later it was over and that class is in the books. Now just one more - noon Thursday and I'm done for the semester. I know that I'll get a run in tomorrow and maybe on Wednesday - there's no way I can study all the way from here to midday on Thursday.

Take care all and happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Les, you're almost there! You can do it :cool: Good luck fitting in a run, or even two, between now and freedom time!

Kathy, that concert sounds fabulous, and the musicians inspiring! Aren't uplifting concerts the best?

Carrie, no, it wasn't the frog light and in fact I'd never seen that before. Very cute! Good luck getting to run the route you're craving soon :)

Meg, sounds like a fun but whirlwind weekend. The race through Universal Studios sounds unique and more than a little neat.

Robyn, nice job on that chilly run *brr*

Hi to Susan, Julie, Vicci, TKay, ktg, Betsy, and everyone else!

No workout today *except* for a lot of very brisk walking, including power walking and shopping ;) DH and I took on some of the surrogate Santa shopping from work again this year. This year we shopped for 2 little boys and managed to do very well, given the deep sales. We are excited with what we were able to find them and I have a trunkload of goodies that I will bring into work tomorrow for drop-off. DH is so funny when we do surrogate Santa shopping - he wants to buy the kids all kinds of neat things! I mean, so do I, but he gets even more into it than I do. It's cute.

Best to all!

[VictoriaL]

This is killing me! I scanned through this week's posts and want to reply, but I just don't have the time. :o

First off, a huge congrats to Meg for completing her race on the 6th! I did see the thread, and photo, but was too busy to comment at the time.

The anniversary party went so well, I wish I could go back and relive it. :) Here are some photos (http://share.shutterfly.com/share/received/welcome.sfly?fid=bd0e5f199e6ebe24&sid=0AZNG7Ro4cuGL9o). but the downside is that I neglected everything else to plan and prepare for it, so now I'm playing catch-up with the required Christmas stuff.

I did get a few runs in during this time, and my one foot is beginning to give me problems so I have to quit procrastinating about buying new shoes and do that as soon as Christmas is over.

Yesterday, it was a balmy 58 degrees here. The dry weather we've had resulted in the ground gratefully soaking up the rain we received, so it wasn't too muddy for a trail run. And, an extra bonus, I now believe that running makes me think better! Seriously-- I went out and, when I returned, things had been decided upon and I felt much more organized. Wonder how long this will last?!?!

Okay, gotta run (alas, just figuratively). :D Take care all, and I hope for a more leisurely "chat" soon.

[Natasha]

Vicci, what great photos! You and your DH are an attractive couple (with nice-looking friends, too, of course), the table and decorations are beautiful, and the house and setting themselves are simply gorgeous! So envious of the lake house. Sounds like an idyllic evening!

Gotta go... want to walk the pup before dark. Best to all!

[SusanMac]

Cute photos! I don't think I've ever seen a picture of you b4, Vicci. How fun to have a visual now. Yes, you guys are a cute couple. Can't picture you scraping paint off of your siding :-)

I suddenly think I don't have quite enough Xmas decorations out either!

No workout today. Getting ready to host cooking club tonight. It's our cookie exchange...which means trouble! I made Israeli Tahini cookies (I forgot to mention that my souvenir to myself was a local cookbook! I've never done that b4 on travels, but it just might have to be a new tradition), and Tunisian stew from Bon Appetit.

It's been snowing all afternoon & I'm feeling very festive!

[newsomz]

Okay, no run to report here either! I was feeling icky so decided to give myself a break.. even though the run would have been good for me. Just mentally needed to take one off.

Anyhow, Vicci, looks like a great party!! Lovely photos :)

Also, KValley, I believe I forgot to answer your questions... We were planning on going to Grenoble originally. However, now we're planning on staying in Paris the entire time. One reason I'm not too worried about the cold weather gear is because Paris is milder than Grenoble! Exploring a new to you region will be tons of fun! I have only spent a few days in Paris so I am looking forward to really exploring the city.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Great pictures Vicci. It's good to put a face with a name now - interesting to see BB folks "IRL." It looks like you had a lot of fun at your party too, as you should have after 25 years!
Susan - I hope that your cookie exchange goes well today and that you get something in as a workout in the coming days before all the fun hits.
Nat - Almost there... and I'm ready for the end of the semester too. Shopping for Christmas sounds like fun right now (that's sick to think of - I want to go shopping right now -- :confused: ).
Carrie - Probably good to take a break if you feel icky (such a nice technical term too). Hope your day off pays benefits.

A shout out to the rest of the gang. I'm getting ready for the final that happens in about 36 hours. I'm feeling pretty good about the test in general but it's going to be a tough row to hoe. Still got a spin in this evening - 60+ on the trainer made for a nice evening - now all I need to do is summarize my notes on the theologians and I'm set.

Happy trails all and I'll see you later,
Les

[Kathy B]

Lifted weights at the CC this AM, and plan to do the TM this afternoon at home. (Yes, I did get the TM in on Monday!) We have snow on the ground, highs in the 20 - 22 range, and rain/ice moving in our direction. Think the kids will have a "snow day" by the end of the week, so I am trying to finish up gift shopping/wrapping.

Vicci, your lake house is lovely! So glad your anniversary party was successful and so memorable. Congratulations on 25 years!!!!! I am sure it is no coincidence that running makes you feel more organized. It would be interesting to learn the science behind it. My guess would be that it is related to the endorphins thing.... Good job getting in those runs!

Good job on your spin, Les, and good luck with your final!

How did the tahini cookies turn out, Susan? I can't quite picture it, but I do have a large jar of tahini in my frig.... :p Let me know if I need the recipe! Also, thanks for the movie review. I think DH and I will have to make a point to see it over the holidays.

Carrie, way to go with the 6 miler Saturday. Probably a good move to take yesterday off if you weren't feeling up to it. No need to weaken your immune system when we are in the midst of germ season. I figure running is a lifelong pursuit, so you have some time to make up any runs you miss. ;)

Natasha, your Santa shopping sounds like a lot of fun. DD really enjoys doing that sort of thing as well, and she has a nose for bargains (not that they are hard to find this year! :D)

Hi to Meg, Robyn, Julie, Kathy, Eva and everyone else!

[Robyn1007]

Hi all, quick drive by here. I took Monday off as I was more sore than normal, I think due to my muscles tightening up so fast after my run Sunday. Did strength/swim on Tuesday and did a spin yesterday with my coach. Today is a lunch time run with my new CW-X Pro tights. Really looking forward to testing those out.

[Kathy B]

Well, I didn't do the TM yesterday after all, but I did spend at least 30 minutes shoveling snow, so just a different kind of workout. Today, yoga plus 45 min on the TM. For now, Law & Order reruns are the pick to pass the time. Waiting patiently for the return of 24....

[SusanMac]

Robyn - Very jealous of your CWX tights. I got some for DH a few years ago and he loves them (although perhaps a bit too...ahem...snug for a guy. He wears shorts on top :-) I need some new winter tights, as well. I also love, love the cute North Face zip top you posted earlier. You are truly the queen of cool winter gear.

Did I mention we had a cookie exchange this week? Oi! Trouble. And now, my in-laws have requested that I bring both bourbon balls and espresso nuts on Christmas. I just need to not worry until Jan 2, right??

[Robyn1007]

Susan, you'll probably be even more jealous when I tell you that I snagged the tights for $47.50. :D Yes, I'm a proud gear ho. :p

[Leslie Ferguson]

I hadn't heard of CW-X tights but knew what they were once I googled them. Nat's DH has a pair and swears by them. So I decided to take a look at them (for cost) and at ~$95 a pair they better be darn good. Susan I don't know about most guys but I always wear shorts over my tights... chafing, modesty or whatever... If I could find a steal like Robyn I might actually think about getting a pair.

Dropping in to claim the completion of another semester. Probably head out for a run since it's fantastic weather right now - 41-42, overcast, no breeze... a day you could run forever. Then... like we were talking about on FB... maybe sushi! as a celebratory dinner followed closely by... SLEEP.

Happy trails all,
Les

[VictoriaL]

Hi everyone!

Thanks for the compliments on the photos. I wish that I could have had cameras running in different locations during the evening so I could replay it over, then I could enjoy it without having to decorate, cook, etc.!

Les Congrats on the successful completion of yet another semester! Run, eat sushi, and sleep!!!

KathyB your life is packed all year ‘round, isn’t it? ;) I’m impressed that, with all that you do, you manage to get to the CC at all!

Susan this really is a cookie time of year isn’t it? I’ve made dozens, 8 different varieties, plus toffee, caramels, and marshmallows. Yes, no need to worry until January 2nd!

Robyn You are a gear ho! I would be in trouble just reading your posts, if I ran anywhere where human beings would see me. As it is, as long as it’s comfy, I don’t mind wearing ratty stuff since the occasional deer or rabbit are all I come across on the trails.

So much to do, so little time, but I am forcing myself to run (or use the EB) every other day whether I have the time or not. So far it has worked, and I’ve been a lot less “snappish” than I normally am in this type of situation (DH can confirm it!)

Yesterday, a half hour on the EB, and I just came in from a 35 minute trail run (tomorrow is going to be too packed to do any exercise). Now off to mix up some cookie dough (yes, I didn't make enough...), wrap DH’s client gifts for him to deliver tomorrow, and make dinner. :) Then I think I'll have some Christmas tree-gazing time this evening.

Hi to Nat, Meg, Carrie, and all...

[Natasha]

Hi all!

Wow, fun day here so far :D Traffic aside, that is. Got a lot done, but also had some great laughs, caught up on people's holiday plans... good stuff. I'm also really craving a speedy road ride but that isn't happening anytime soon, as we are expecting 2-3 big snows in the next week. I must make do with the home gym (thank GOODNESS for that when the serious snow hits!! Except that maybe tomorrow I'll end up snowshoeing! I'd love that).

As Les mentions, my DH loves his compression tights. I have a pair as well and also really vouch for them. I even wore them for my last marathon, as the weather was cool enough for them. We bought ours at a huge running/multisport store at their annual Boxing Day sale... deep discounts there every year. Robyn, what did you think of the tights?

Running and training definitely help me a ton too with thinking better, feeling better, and being more patient :)

Congratulations Les!! Enjoy the R&R.

Sorry this is so flighty but we have to head out and do a few things before the snow hits and we also need to give the pup a good long walk.

Best to everyone!! Catch you on the new thread.

[Leslie Ferguson]

I agree Kathy B, your days are quite packed and I'm always amazed how much you actually get in for your workouts around all the other things.
Nat - I'd love a little of your snow down here. All we've had so far is cold and no snow to speak of; but the season is still early. I hope you got the pup out before the worst of the snow hit. I hear you about being more even keeled when I exercise. I hope you aren't too socked in with snow the coming week.
Vicci - Good pushing out for an EB stint. Something is better than nothing. Likewise for 35 minutes outside (in the snow?) tonight. Hopefully your day tomorrow isn't too weirded out.

Thanks for the congratulations, it's hard to believe that I'm already half way done with school. :rolleyes: I'm looking forward to a little R&R - more or less. Still need to take care of some things that have been hanging out for a couple weeks (like Christmas presents) before heading south next week for Chritmas. Life will defintely be packed though over the break, even considering that I'm "off" until the end of January.

Whoppee!!! I ran tonight too. It was grand and just about the right temp although a little one direction or the other would have been fine. A touch too warm for long sleeves (except when I was waiting for a light) and a little too cool for short sleeves. Got out for about 65 minutes and can tell that my mileage hasn't been what it has been in the past - about 4 or 5 minutes more tonight to cover a standard route. But at this point I wouldn't trade a few runs for my sanity (which I would have sacrificed if I hadn't kept up on my studies).

Calling for rain tomorrow so I may be inside for a spin. See you all in the funnies tomorrow.

A free man (again),
Les