Christmas Recap

Christmas was busy this year - in many ways more than usual. We had some driving to do such as picking up and dropping off Steph's grandmother so she could spend Christmas at our house. We also hosted Christmas for Steph's immediate family this year - long story short, her parent's kitchen is in the middle of a renovation. We drove down to spend Christmas Eve with my parents and my youngest sister and her three adorable girls... stay tuned for photos. And finally, I drove 6 hours out and 6 hours back to Ohio yesterday to see my grandmother and have an un-official family reunion of sorts, minus one sister and two nephews. Whew!

I did get some nice stuff this year - not the "all running" Christmas theme as last year, but still great stuff - stuff I wanted and needed. Some of the things I received were: new headphones for my mp3 player, a new hat to wear while I run when it's cold (underarmor), some ice/snow cleats for running outside in bad conditions (I wonder if I'll even be able to try these out?), a "marathon freak" sticker for my truck, a "26.2" coffee mug, money - gotta get new shoes (trail and regular)! Oh... I also got some dress shirts, a sweater, a cool long-sleeve t-shirt and some coffee from my favorite coffee roaster on the planet! I L-O-V-E the Hemingway's Hair of the Dog® roast - it is so smooth... the high caffeine doesn't hurt either...

The bad news is that I have not run in almost three weeks, but my reading is going well. I am freaking out on the inside, but remaining calm on the outside. The knee feels good and I have had no pain in a few days - not in the slightest. So, I am planning a run on Saturday. Hopefully I can finish a very easy 3 miles with no pain. If that is the case I will slowly get my base back up to where I was and get ready for training for my spring marathon - The Flying Pig.

As the days of 2006 tick down, I will be spending it designing my remaining plans for 2007. I believe I had hinted at this before, but not only am I planning on the Flying Pig in May, but also the Marine Corp Marathon in October. I'll need to work out the details ahead of time so it is feasible, but these are the big picture items for the year.

I wish you all a safe and Happy New Year!

merry christmas

holiday interlude

'Twas the week before Christmas and there was the sun, The weather was perfect but Dave didn’t run.

His knee was still sore but better each day, Yet he still couldn’t run, not yet anyway.

He took a week off from running is what I hear, In hopes that he’d heal and have nothing to fear.

His knee didn’t hurt all weekend long, But Monday morning came and it was the same old song

So another week off is what he’ll heed, And try this weekend to run like a steed.

I hope you all are enjoying the holiday season, And that maybe you find my poem somewhat pleasin’

I’ll post more about running on my blog, But for now I am going to drink egg nog.

I wish you all the best and hope you have fun, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good run!

the 7 year itch

A sort of non-running related post today... Today is my and my wife's 7th wedding anniversary. Though, back on December 7th was our 10 year anniversary of our first date. In the past 7 years, we have had our ups an downs, just like any relationship I imagine, but we get through it all. Not too unlike running a marathon, or running in general - where there are good runs and bad and times during a marathon when things look bleak, but yet somehow one perseveres. I think running really has helped give me the perspective in all things, not just marriage, to deal with the bad and get through it, so you get get to the good again. Here's to many more years of 'the good'...

Tonight we celebrate with a nice dinner at Agio's - a great Italian Restaurant in downtown Indy, followed by a relaxing stroll through downtown...

patellar tendinitis

" Patellar tendinitis is inflammation of one of the knee-joint tendons. Tendinitis occurs when tissue breakdown outpaces regrowth, and is caused by increased mileage, hills (especially downhills), and pace. Running through tendinitis will make it worse and prolong your recovery, says Davis. But treated early, it can heal in a few weeks. Here's how: cross-train, ice, wear a patella strap, take anti-inflammatories, stretch, and do exercises to strengthen the joint and quadriceps, such as leg extensions."

This is my diagnosis of what is wrong with my knee. It makes sense based on my running leading up to the point when the pain started. The knee is feeling marginally better, so I am thinking it is healing itself, but I do not see any running for me for the rest of the year... at least not until the pain is altogether gone. This will force me into stretches and cross training - both of which I have needed to focus on better anyway... I have until the beginning of January until I will need to start training for the Flying Pig Marathon, so I will determine then if I will definitely be running it or not...

I have also decided to spend some time catching up on my reading. I stopped by the library on the way home last night and picked up this:

I am hoping to distract myself from my non-running with a good book...

confessions of an addict

Okay, I am being a little dramatic... or am I?

It has been 3 days since I ran and my knee is not feeling much better. It doesn't hurt when it is not in motion, it doesn't hurt if I press on it or anything around it. I cannot run until my knee feels better - in fact, I can't really walk without it hurting (if I walk too fast). I am trying to not worry about reaching my mileage goal for the year - no big deal actually. I am surprisingly not depressed, but perhaps it hasn't hit me yet. I would like to get on with running, I need it. I feel a little empty without it. Even with everything else I have to do (work, finish Christmas shopping, wrap gifts, miscellaneous family stuff, etc.) I feel like I am not doing anything.

Then my thoughts start going to the questions like: "Why now?" "Is it serious?" "Should I go to the doctor?" "What do I do if he says no running for a long time?" "What if he says I need surgery?" Obviously my mind jumps the gun a bit - and if it had it's own stomach, it would have an ulcer by now, but I am coping. One day at a time. But man, I need a running fix really bad...

i don't knee-d this...

I woke up this morning and my right knee was a little sore. I had noticed during my run yesterday that it was a little sore, but it wasn't sharp, it didn't affect my running, so I continued. It wasn't the first time I felt something like that, so I didn't pay much attention to it. But this morning, it was different. I stretched it gently and flexed it only to hear it making a snapping noise... not good. I decided to test it out on the treadmill to see how it felt.

Well... I got a total of 3/4 of a mile and the pain was too much for me to take. So, no running for me today, and maybe none tomorrow. Maybe I just ran too much during the week... though I did have Wednesday off.

I will try again tomorrow morning if it feels better, but otherwise will rest, ice and repeat as necessary...

Not the way I want to end the year and hopfully I can still reach my 1,000 mile goal...

even my tree is in the running spirit...

93 to go...

So far so good. My plan to get to 1,000 miles for the year is well on it's way. I am right on track to reach my goal. I was able to take Wednesday off this week, so I can give my body a little rest, and I ran this morning at a nice easy pace. I am feeling pretty good, a little tired as I am squeezing my runs in whenever I possibly can.

On another note, our Christmas tree was put up last weekend (a vintage 1960's aluminum christmas tree, complete with color wheel). Last year was the first time we put it up and we really liked it - nostalgic and sentimental for my wife (it was her grandmother's). As for Christmas shopping, I am 95% done with it, with only my wife to finish up. I am mailing off my three sister's and grandmother's gifts today.

Saturday is my wife's family Christmas party. We will head up to Muncie, Indiana to her aunt's house for the festivities.

Anyway, that is all for now. I will update my progress in a couple of more days... stay warm out there!

104.8

No, this isn't the temperature (far from it). This number represents the miles I have remaining to reach my 1,000 miles in a year goal (running only - no biking or walking). Last year I tallied up my mileage and it was 924... a little short of the 1,000 mark. So this year I am making the push to get there - sort of in the spirit of Dean Karnazes, but without anything remotely "ultra" about it...

Actually, by my calculations, I only need to run 4 miles every day through the end of the year, so I expect to have no problem getting there. I'll keep you posted...

jingle bell run

It was my last race of the year... the Jingle Bell Run 5k. I had high hopes of posting a quick time, and while it wasn't what I asked Santa for, it was a respectable time...

It was a very sunny, but very cold (28 degrees) morning. I got to packet pick-up with 40 minutes to spare before the race, so I took my time, did an easy jog to and from for a warm-up to find out I needed my hat! I almost NEVER wear a hat (not too shabby for a "folically challenged guy"), but this morning my ears were cold to the point they hurt. So I grabbed my hat when I got back to my truck and then headed over to the starting line with jingle bells attached to my running shoes...

The race was chip timed, but there was no starting mat, so I tried to start right at the front, but once again got behind too many people (I underestimate how fast I have gotten over the last year and a half) and I spent the first half mile weaving around people - but there was plenty of room for all runners and it was a great time. I love this race because it is kind of fun to run and hear almost nothing but the sound of jingle bells for the entire 5k! They had Christmas music playing on the track where the race started near and finished on.

I spent the enitre run thinking I was going too slow, and feeling sluggish. I tried to push as much as I could at the last mile - the slight hills felt like nothing surprisingly though. All of the races I have run on this same course (and there are a lot of 5k races that use the same course) I slowed on these inclines, but this time they were not a factor - I was keeping my stride.

I do not know how I did for each mile - I chose not to time myself, but just run by how my body felt. My overall performance was 23:51 for a 7:40/mile pace. A new PR! I was slightly disappointed that I did not place in the top three in my group, which was the "Santa weight" division instead of my normal age group, though I faired better in this race placing 5th.

So the remainder of the year is going to be focused on my mileage and trying to get over a 1,000 miles for the year... I have seen a lot of runners post much higher mileage for the year, and that is my goal for next year so I will hopefully become a stronger, faster and leaner runner...

Happy Holidays to all!

he who hesitates...

will find himself without a race...

OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon sold out with 35,000 entries 500 Festival celebrates record registration

INDIANAPOLIS (November 27, 2006) – The 500 Festival announced today the 31st Running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon has sold out with 35,000 entries in record time. This comes five months in advance of the May 5,2007 race. This year participants from 50 states and seven countries have registered. Entries postmarked on or before today, November 27, will be accepted.

This marks the earliest sell-out for the event. The 2006 event sold out December 2, 2005 with 35,000 entries. The 2005 event sold out by December 13, 2004 with 30,000 entries. The annual road race celebrating the Indianapolis 500 has continued to grow since its inception in 1977 and a field of 800 participants

Well, it looks like I lost track of time and didn't get signed up. I was indecisive on whether I would run the Mini again or try something new. I guess my mind has been made up for me... I now have to choose a new race to run this spring... I am thinking it is time for a spring marathon... and my decision is the Flying Pig...

Training will commence in January -- I can't wait!

a perfect 10?

It has been a nice long weekend and the weather has been just spectacular! I took the day off yesterday, and no, it wasn't to go marathon shopping. I took it easy and got a few things accomplished at home, such as raking the leaves and mowing for the last time this year. Today I will get the lights out.

I slept in this morning and decided when I woke up to go for a nice easy long run. It was time. I shuffled around slowly, then decided to get ready and get out there. I caught the weather forecast on the TV and it is getting into the upper 50's today. How could I pass this up? Another stellar day! I had in my mind that I wanted a decent long run - not 6 or 7, but perhaps 10? It seemed a bit ambitious, but I thought I would set a route that would allow me to bail out if it got tough out there.

I went to Fort Harrison State Park and ran from there, out the back to my usual Fall Creek Trail route. I went out 3.5 miles and turned around and came back to the truck. I was feeling incredible! I grabbed some water and decided to run the loop trail in the park next (about 2.5+ miles). I put the earbuds back in my ears and took off. I couldn't believe how I was feeling. The plan was to run slow and steady and just enjoy the day and boy did I. I made it up the hills and curved around the top of the loop trail on the flat part and then began a slow decent back down. I got done in 87:46 -- an 8:45/mile average pace!?!? What happened to slow and steady?!? I felt like I could keep going -- and part of me wanted to, but I didn't want to ruin a good thing -- ten miles was awesome.

This was my runner's high for the year, I think. It was just an incredible run. It was the kind of run that I usually only read about, but have experienced it on a few occasions. Here are my splits if interested -- I actually got the steady part right...

• Mile 1: 8:55
• Mile 2: 8:54
• Mile 3: 9:00
• Mile 4: 8:56
• Mile 5: 8:39
• Mile 6: 8:24
• Mile 7: 8:28
• Mile 8: 9:02 (hills)
• Mile 9: 8:52
• Mile 10: 8:16 (easy - mostly down hill)

happy thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!

Today was the day for my race - the Drumstick Dash, a 4.5 mile run. I ran it for the first time last year and had a good time (and I PR'd with a pace of a sub-8:00/mile). I was looking to find some more speed again this year - especially since I have been improving all of my times in the last year.

Well... the streak has been broken. I did do pretty well -- 36:02 overall - 8:00/mile pace - about 16 seconds slower overall from last year...

It was a little disappointing, but I had a great time. A great set-up and a great cause. It benefits Wheeler Mission which feeds the homeless on Thanksgiving. Before and after the race Starbuck's was there handing out free Gingerbread and Peppermint Lattes as well as their Christmas blend coffee!! Oh so good and so festive - really gets this coffee loving runner in the mood for the season...

Hope everyone's Thanksgiving is a great one!

in the zone

I had planned to run on Saturday, but ended up down at my wife's grandmother's house - the new one. It is almost finished! In fact, we spent the night in it Friday night. Almost all of the furniture had already been delivered, no appliances yet and the kitchen wasn't finished yet either, but other than that it was very 'liveable'. While down there, I hung some pictures on the walls, moved the furniture in the appropriate spots (being the architect who designed the house I knew where I wanted the furniture to be - I know, sounds egotistical, but it really was the best arrangement of the furniture).

So, that brings us to today. I woke up later than usual (8am) and decided I was getting outside for a run. It had already reach the high for the day - 39 degrees. So, I suited up and got ready and out the door I went. I decided to keep it short - about 5 miles seemed right for the day. I headed to the front of the neighborhood jamming to an updated eccletic mix of music (OK Go, Raconteurs, Kanye West, Snow Patrol, Johnny Cash, Eminen and a little Franz Ferdinand to name just a few). I felt pretty good, even happy to be outside - even in the cold, drizzly weather. I was feeling slow, but strong, so I just went by how I felt. I headed to the neighborhood across the street from me, wound around and back out to the main road and headed towards the historic Fort Harrison area. I went out about 5k and then turned around. I was feeling great by this point - something that I haven't felt in a little while. I picked up the pace some more and it felt fine. About a mile from home I picked it up some more. It was starting to feel a little tougher, but it felt good. I was able to finish strong, my last half mile was run at an 8:00/mile. Overall I ran 5.5 mile at an average pace of 8:32/mile... my speed is coming back.

An easy week coming up (I think). I think I can even catch my breath at work and get some quality runs in this week - the big race is on Thanksgiving morning - I can't wait...

run of the 'mill

I am happy to report that I have run every day this week. I only got outside for one of the runs and the other three were done on the 'mill. It wasn't terrible, it was convenient, but it was mind-numbing.

For those of you who have been helping me look, I did find my speed. Well, some of it anyway. It was under a pile of papers at work... funny, I don't remember placing it there...

I am taking the day off to rest and then looking to run tomorrow morning - it looks to be a nice day out (somewhat cold, but no rain) so I am planning on running outside. It will be a tune up run for the race on Thanksgiving. Wow, this year is just flying by... only 39 more days until Christmas!

lost: speed

Has anyone seen my speed? I have apparently misplaced it. I do not remember what it looks like, but if you see anything that may resemble my speed, please let me know... possible reward. In all fairness I have been overworked and under rested, so work is probably the culprit. I'll try looking there tomorrow...

I have to admit I did not run at all on Sunday - work sucked me into its "vortex of doom" all day and left me no time or desire to run. But I am happy to say that I have run both days this week and plan on running tomorrow morning. Nothing big - just short 30 minute runs to get them in and get back to a schedule of sorts. But I need some speed now 'cause I am planning on running a race in just 9 days... oh crap...

just doing it

No, this isn't a Nike endorsement - I just wanted to announce that I got out yesterday to enjoy the wonderful weather we had been having (especially since I missed out on Thursday's weather). I went out and just ran. I probably ran too hard and too fast

No, I know I did, but I wanted to.

It was a rough week and it just felt good to go all out... well, as all out as I could go feeling as tired as I did. It just melts the stress away, so for me, it was a good thing.

I took today off to relax, sleep in, spend time with my wife (who almost forgot who I was) and not think about work. I think I did pretty good. I also got to see my nephews today. They are so cute - especially Ethan, who will be 1 year old very soon. He is such a happy little guy (as long as he is fed).

Tomorrow is a long run for me. I'd like to do 8 or 9 miles, but I am not sure. I think I will go out with the intention of running at least 5, and if I am feeling good, I will go for the 9. Then it will be off to work to work the rest of the day and start my week right where I left off. But I am going to try to run 5 to 6 days a week now no matter what my schedule is at work. I can afford 20 - 30 minutes a day to make this work, so why not? I have to thank fellow runner and blogger, Yumke for this idea. It all seems so simple, but for some reason I couldn't see it. As a runner I need to make the time because it IS part of my life and I want to keep it that way.

mill-work

It has been a rough week. I missed my run on Tuesday, so I got up at 4am this morning to run so I could get it in and still get to work extra-early. I opted for the 'mill just to make it easy on me and I took it slow at first then ramped up the pace. I felt good when it was all done - certainly better than I had before I started.

I showered and got dressed and headed into work for another long day. It is 7pm and I am still here, but not much longer (I hope). I have a month's worth of work that I have been trying to cram into one week - oh yeah, the fun never stops for Dave.

I may try to sneak out a little early tomorrow for a run - I hear the weather is supposed to be great.

(another) lost weekend

Yet another weekend that flew by. It was another weekend I had to cram a bunch of errands and chores into. It was another weekend I had to work. It was another weekend I had to find time to run.

A little background on my usual weekend (for this year anyway)... My wife's grandmother's house burned down on January 4th of this year. The good news is she was not home and not hurt. The first few weekend of the year was spent sifting through the ashes, trying to salvage furniture (heirlooms) and memories.

The insurance company agreed to replace the house. Floor plans were needed. I, being an architect, offered my services. I had some ideas to improve upon what she had - with the main idea of making it easy for her to live in the house. You see, she is 81 years old and while she is still very active, she won't be able to climb stairs forever and this is where her bedroom was. So a little reoganizing the inside and making a few design choices to better the space, the building process was started. I spent several weekends working on the design and preparing the drawings. I met with the contractors and I have been to the house almost every weekend all summer long. It is an hour drive to get there, so it never ended up being a quick trip, no matter how we planned. It has taken from March until now to get where we are - about two weeks from completion. A ridiculously long process, but well worth the wait. On Saturday we picked up a bunch of items for the house on our way down and then I completed my walk-thru inspection and created my list of items to fix (a punch-list). Before we knew it Saturday was gone.

My work week was a trying one and I had brought work home with me to do. Needless to say, it was going to have to be done on Sunday. But what about my run, you may ask? I took a break around 3:00 and went to Fort Harrison State Park for a run. I decided it was time to hit the hills again and I always enjoy the serenity of the park. Most of the leaves were on the ground, but the smell of autumn was still in the air - wonderful.

My run wasn't the easiest, but I pushed myself hard today. I felt I needed to for some reason. I got my 7 miles in at an 8:55/mile pace. I felt good when I was done.

I am hoping to normalize my schedule this week, but it promises to be yet another busy one, so we'll see. If I can just get a run in on Tuesday and Thursday, it should be okay. My recovery schedule is not happening the way I had hoped. So, I am now pondering my options for the spring... mary or half-mary? Probably too early to make a decision yet - especially a knee-jerk reaction based on my previous weekends this year.

I caught a little of the NY Marathon on TV today... inspiring. Even seeing Lance Armstrong finishing in just under 3 hours and looking beat... it made me feel better. Even Lance Armostrong can look like that...

work: 1 running: 0

I have not done any running since Sunday. I will say my legs feel heavy anyway, but I'd really like to keep going. Unfortunately work has gotten even busier than it was over the summer and I am finding no time to get runs in now (even now I shouldn't even be blogging). I have to reshuffle my schedule, and soon. With holidays coming it will be tough... I get overwhelmed with everything I have to do at work, at home and everywhere in between.

One thing at a time.

I am going to try for a 3 mile run this evening - probably on the treadmill :( Then another 6 - 8 miles this weekend and try to get my running back on track, but looks llike work may win again... maybe even this weekend... yuck.

This too shall pass...

a photo finish

Here we go... finishing up the race, feeling like I gave it my all (and knowing it). I am happy with my results. I can definitively say this now. I am now deciding where to go from here. Options on the table? I am thinking Marine Corp Marathon, perhaps Flying Pig Marathon... I have a little time to figure it out. For now, I will recover from this marathon. So far so good. I am following Hal Higdon's post marathon recovery schedule. It was great last year, so why mess with a good thing?

Wednesday my legs were feeling good as new - no more aches or pains, so an easy 2 miles after work. It felt great to just run for fun - no timing, no specific pace other than slow and easy... This morning I went out for an easy 6. The weather wasn't too bad, blue sky and sunny, low 40's and windy (temp and wind sound a little familiar?). It was great. I did time myself to see if I ran it slow and easy... nope. I felt comfortable though. I ran it in an 8:48/mile pace.

In my immediate future I am planning to run the local Drumstick Dash - a 4.5 mile run on Thanksgiving morning. Also, I am planning to run a 5k event sometime soon - probably the Jingle Bell Run. My PR for a 5k needs an update and I am pretty sure I can crush my current time.

I feel the need, the need for speed...

chicago marathon photo essay

Just a few photos. We'll start at the expo, where the excitement increased exponentially... I arrived with just under 17 hours to go... I have that deer-in-the-headlights-look... oh yeah, I'm nervous and excited all at the same time.

Then we arrive to race morning. Here is the group... with spouses/loved-ones and without...

From here we will go right to race photos... in some I look pretty good, others, well, I am struggling a little...

That is all for now... blogger is refusing to let me upload anymore... up next: the amazing finish photo...

race weekend: the fast and the furious

It was a 4 day weekend for Steph and me, but it sure went by fast. Unfortunately this entry is a bit on the long side... Here is a recap of our weekend:

We took the day off on Friday and used it as an opportunity to sleep in. It was nice. Took our time packing our stuff – triple checking all of my running gear. We were able to leave early afternoon and drove up to Chesterton, Indiana where we stayed at a B&B for the night. We ate at a great little Thai Restaurant that night and drove over to Michigan City to the outlet mall for some shopping. Afterwards we retired back to the B&B for a soak in the hot tub. We went to bed somewhat early and even slept in again. I was trying to get as much sleep as possible.

Saturday morning we had breakfast, and checked out around 10am. We headed into downtown Chesterton for a European Market. It had great foods and wears. After this we headed to the train station to catch the 11:41 South Shore Line train into Chicago. We had done this a few times before and knew it was an easy way to get to Chicago. It was about 20 minutes late, but no big deal.

About an hour and twenty minutes later we were in Chicago, Millennium Station at Randolph and Michigan Avenue. We grabbed a cab to the Sheraton Hotel and immediately checked in. It was about 1:45, so we grabbed a quick bite and then took the free shuttle bus from the hotel to the expo.

What an experience. The masses of people everywhere – all gearing up for the marathon the next day… I was getting very excited/anxious. We met up with my friend Jason and his friend Courtney and his girlfriend Holly. We walked through the expo, got our shirts, a few other things, but not really stopping that much – we wanted to leave without walking around too much. One thing I noticed (and I wish I had taken a picture) was the VW area with a big sign that read, "The Rabbit is Back". It made me think our our own Running Rabbit.

Before we knew it, it was 4pm. Our reservations at Harry Caray’s were at 5pm, so we went to catch our shuttle bus. The line was 100’s of people deep. There was no way we would get on a bus soon enough to get to dinner on time, so we grabbed a taxi (which was an amazingly choreographed system). We made it back to our hotel to drop our stuff off and then grabbed another cab to the restaurant. Everyone was there when we got there, so we sat down right away.

Dinner was great. It was great food and the service was fast. The water glasses were kept full, even for all of us marathon runners trying to hydrate one last time. With dinner over by 6:45, we went our separate ways to go back to our hotels and try to get some sleep. I was nowhere ready to sleep, so I read through the race information – not a good way to calm one’s nerves. Finally at 9:30 I decided I had to try to sleep.

I was awake at 2:30 am. I tried to go back to sleep and woke up again at 3:30 am, then again at 4:30 am. That was it, my mind hadn't stopped since 2:30, so I was getting up and getting ready. It was Race Morning. My anxiety had reach critical level, I was irritable and I didn't know why. I was as rested as I could be, as well trained as I could be and prepared for the weather as I could be. Why worry? Well, I always do. No matter what size of race, I worry. So there I was trying to down a power bar and gatorade - each bite tougher than the next. We left the hotel at 6:45 to meet up with Jason, Courtney, Andy and Brooke. After a little talk about the weather and a few obligatory pre-marathon photos we headed over to the Start Line.

Jason, Courtney and Andy separate from Brooke and me as they were running a different pace. Brooke and I locate the pace groups and find the 4:00 pacers. We were right next to them. We stood there waiting for the start, staying warm because there were just so many people around us. Finally, the horn sounds and it was time to run! Er, well, time to walk to the start line. For eleven minutes. Tripping over discarded clothes and water bottles. But once we got to the line we were off! Funny thing was, by the time we got to the start line we had already lost the pace group! People had jostled for position during the eleven minute walk. Oh well, if we could keep them in site, we would be fine.

For the first few miles, no problems. We were doing okay. Actually we were about 20 seconds slower on pace, but figured we could slowly speed up and finish strong - we weren't worried. I think we settled into our pace and were cruising along. Right around Mile 7 was my first twinge of pain in my right achilles. I thought, "This is a new pain. Never had this problem before." The pain was mild and went away so I pushed on. I am not sure if the weather was a factor yet, but it seemed to take forever to get to the half way point, but we got there and were on pace for a 4:05 marathon. I was fine with that, but I thought if it got down to the last 5k and I felt good, I would pick up the pace. I was feeling confident.

It was around Mile 16 that I started to feel my left ankle start to chime in. Apparently it didn't want my right achilles getting all the attention. Again, this was a new pain and it was slight, so I pushed on, though this time not as hard. Brooke was getting uncharacteristicly quite. I usually depend on her for great conversation on our runs, and marathons are no exception. I asked her a couple of miles later how she was doing and she said, "not so good". I told her about my aches and my newest addition - my knees. We both refused to quit, though I have to be honest, I wanted to, or at least part of me did. I was miserable. I could see our goal time slipping away ever so slowly. We were now on track for a 4:15 marathon, which is still great, so I was okay with that.

The knees were speaking up more and more with each mile. It was getting tough - mentally and physically. I pretty much shut out the crowd and started to focus inward on myself. I focused on my cadence - left, right, left, right... I don't remember where anything I saw was - everything is a blur. I do remember a bright spot while running through China Town. As we turned that corner and saw the dragon and heard 'Chariots of Fire' I felt a surge of energy and my pain went away. Almost. But I felt better. Brooke even said she felt better too. I wish I could say it kept us going for the rest of the race, but it left us as quickly as it came.

Around Mile 20 ? maybe? I finally took my "throw away" shirt (that I had taken off around mile 8 or 9 and had for some reason tied around my waist) and chucked it to the side. I was sad to see it go, but another amazing thing happened - I felt 10 pounds lighter! Brooke followed suit and we felt a little stronger and kept going.

The final 5 miles were hell on earth (for me anyway). This is when walking through the water and gatorade areas started. I had vowed not to do this after my first marathon. I remembered how it hurt to walk, but this time it was wonderful. The tough part was starting to run again. Thankfully there were stops at each mile for the last three miles. The final 1.2 miles I gave it all I had. Thankfully there was a surge of wind that was actually to my back for the first time all race. I went with it and knew i was going to finish this thing. The last 800 meters seemed a lot longer, I pushed as hard as I could up Roosevelt and made my final turn. That is when I saw it. The sweetest sight in the world. The Finish Line. I started to pick up the pace and then I picked it up some more. I pushed harder than I ever have in my life and about 100 meters to go I thought, "I am not going to make it", but I gave it one more push and there I was. I was across the finish line in 4:33:56 by the clock, 4:22:54 by the chip. I was drained. I was exhausted. I was cold. Moreover, I was glad to be done.

I hobble over to get my well deserved mylar blanket and I felt sudden warmth from it. I hobbled on some more, past the chip removal (I happen to have my own) and got some water. I wanted nothing to do with food. I felt like shit. Then, there it was. The second sweetest sight in the world. Beer. I hobbled faster to the table and the man smiled as he handed my the cup. I thanked him and moved on. I then grabbed a bag of ice, but honestly? I didn't use it. I was freezing, my legs didn't need to be any colder. Brooke and I moved on to the runner reunite area to find her husband Keith and our friend Jill who had come in to cheer us on. We did see her once (mile 12?) and apparently she had made it to a couple of other locations, but I think we had blocked the crowd out by then.

Keith and Jill and Brooke's friend Andy showed up about 5 minutes later and we talk about our marathon experience. I tried to call Steph, but couldn't get through on the first try. We waited around a little longer, growing colder and colder as the wind picked up more and more. I finally got Steph on the phone and found out where she was. We met her right at Congress and Michigan Avenue and she bundled me in a jacket. As we were leaving, Jason and Courtney came from behind. They had finished. We found out later Andy had finished as well and in 4:57 - his first and last marathon he said.

We get back to our hotel, saying goodbye to Keith and Brooke, and I get to the room and immediately soak in a hot bath. Then I took a hot shower and I was finally defrosted. Afterwards, I took some Tylenol and a short nap. I fetl pretty good when I woke up. If everyone else having already left, Steph and I ventured out for dinner. I had a desire for some real Chicago deep dish pizza, so we went to Giordano's. Oh, it tasted so-o-o good. That was it for the evening. It was still cold out and still very windy, so back to the hotel to relax, and to sleep a little more.

So ends the second marathon journey of my life. It was tougher than I expected it to be. I'll never know how I could have so many great training runs and then struggle so much in the race, but it is this that will keep me coming back. I know there is a sub-4:00 marathon out there waiting for me, and I won't stop until I get there. Then, there will be something a new goal to go for. Boston? Don't know that right now. I am inspired by people who qualify and run it, so maybe. Only time will tell.

4:22:54

I did it.

Not by design 'A', but by design 'B'...

I hadn't shared my "designs" for the marathon before, but they were:

• Design 'A' was a 4 hour marathon (secretly I wanted 3:59:59)
• Design 'B' was a 4:30 marathon
• Design 'C' was to PR (previous marathon was 4:48:12)

I'll report on my race experience later, but I will say it was tough. Mentally and physically. I am not blaming the weather, but I think it played a big part. I am not disappointed (well maybe a little) but I knocked 26 minutes off my time and a minute off of my pace!

Congratulations to all of you RBF Chicago Marathoners! I have checked your blogs and it sounds like an amazing time for everyone.

redemption

It happened.

I had a good run again.

It was my "4 mile MP run that I was supposed to run last night but couldn't because I didn't get home until 9pm after being out of town" run. I got dressed into the clothes I was thinking of wearing for the marathon based on the latest forecast of partly cloudy, low 32, high 45 because the temp and sky were very close to that forecast. I was fine.

I was more than fine. My legs felt fresh - in fact they had a spring to them!

I still was running too fast, but I felt great!

I am okay.

I am going to be okay.

No fear about weather.

No doubt in my training.

No excuses.

I am going to run chicago by design on Sunday.

random thoughts

The past 18 weeks have been interesting. I have had times when I was feeling great and times when I was doubting my training. If I look back at all of it - the good runs outweighed the bad but the bad runs probably stick in my mind the most. Through all of this one thing remained constant - the support and encouragement of my wife, running/training friends and fellow RBF members.

My wife has allowed me to take the time to train for this marathon - even working out schedules around my weekend runs. There were times, I will admit, that it sometimes created a problem, but she knew it was important to me and we worked it out. I had to switch my schedule around to make it work when she couldn't and I was fine with that.

My friends whom I trained with and talked to about the marathon - Andy, Jason and Brooke. They gave me the excuse I needed to show up for long runs. I always thought I was the lone runner type, but honestly, I enjoy the company. As determined as I am during my training, running alone did not appeal to me a lot of the time. And I have to thank Brooke especially for giving me the idea to start up a blog. I never really expected that I would have others read it (because honestly - it isn't that interesting).

And my new friends - my fellow RBF members. All of you provided the motivation, inspiration and encouragement when I needed it. It wasn't always from getting a comment from you, though I admit it felt good to know others knew what I was going through and could relate or offer advice, but from reading your blogs I felt a kinship. It also helped to know other people - from all over and with different stories, goals and backgrounds were out there training for the same race. I wish you all the best... in no particular order...

• Yumke - You were the first RBF member to comment on my blog and I have enjoyed reading your blog throughout training and will continue to read it even when this is all over.
• Bob - your words of encouragement have been helpful and I wish to thank you for organizing a list of Chicago-bound runners/bloggers. I feel like part of a great family.
• Running Jayhawk and Out of Shape Guy - I have enjoyed both of your blogs and I'd like to thank you again, Barb, for the great "Ode to Chicago marathon Bloggers"
• Ryan - You are awesome. I respect your persistant training and know you will reach your goal to BQ!
• Lisa - I have enjoyed reading your blog as well. You have a great enthusiasm and I know you will do great in Chicago!
• Arcaner - Thanks for the words of encouragement just when I needed them. I have also enjoyed reading your blog and have found inspiration from it.
• Running Rabbit - Always an interesting blog to read. I have anjoyed your trials and tribulations over the last 18 weeks. I l look forward to reading more.
• Jason and Leah - You two are awesome! I find it amazing how you were able to make your training plan work. I struggled a lot with schedule and always got my runs in, but my mileage was not as intense. I think you guys will do great - I wish you the best. Thanks for the words of encouragement as well.
• Nicole - I wish you all the best. Congrats on the Saucony 26 too!
• And there are others that I have also started reading as well and I thank you all for your stories, because they have helped keep me going...

Here's to a successful Marathon for everyone!

the good, the bad and the ugly

The Good: I ran tonight (albeit on the treadmill) and I wasn't tired and my legs didn't feel heavy...

The Bad: It was far from a reaffirming runnning experience... though it was better.

The Ugly: My left shin was tight for the entire run. I stopped twice to stretch and it helped (a little). This happened on Sunday as well, but went away eventually. I am hoping for better things tomorrow. I did try one of these tonight after my run and it felt great.

Early to bed tonight. Trying to cash in as much sleep time as possible. Four and a half days to go...

he sleeps (finally)

I finally had a good nights sleep.

I don't remember waking up, tossing or turning. I slept-in a little this morning too. I woke up feeling good as new... I am hoping that tonights run is a redemption from Sunday.

Keeping my fingers crossed...

thank you running jayhawk

I just read this and I went from feeling blah to feeling much better. Thank you Running Jayhawk - this was quite a pre-marathon present for us all.

message in a bottle...

"I'll send an SOS to the world I'll send an SOS to the world I hope that someone gets my Message in a bottle..."

I just had the worst run of my life - I'm positive of it.

On my schedule was a mere 8 miles. After 3 miles I was exhausted, my legs felt like lead, but I pushed on, thinking it would get better. I got to my turn around point and headed back. I had to stop twice for just a few seconds to stretch a little and to catch my breath...

WTF?!?!? I felt like I hadn't run in weeks! I didn't even finish my 8 miles. I cut it short by a mile. It was just too much. I even tried to push myself to finish the last mile - telling myself it was an end of marathon simulation and I had to push myself to keep going.

Nope.

That didn't work.

The other side of my brain spoke up and said, "Cut it short, prevent injury, your form is all over the place! Besides, 7 miles isn't too shabby at MP anyway." And I did average my MP for the run, but it was just torture.

I am trying to figure out what has caused this to happen. I think I know what it is and I will be fine by the marathon. I probably did something I wasn't supposed to do... but it was a good thing...

I donated blood.

Now normally when I do this, I have never had any problems running the next day. Today, though, you'd have thought I'd never run in my life! A painful experience all around and it is not settling well on my mind. Not what I needed a week before the big day...

One more MP run on Wednesday and a couple of recovery runs...I sure hope they feel better than this run...

Has anyone else ever suffered in a run like this before?

es muy frio!

It is cold outside (in case you didn't notice).

I mean seriously.

This morning is 33 degrees, but feels like 27... not. ready. for. this. yet.

Last night during my run it felt like 27, but it was apparently in the low 40's... sunny, but very windy, so it felt in the range of the mid 30's. I got a new long sleeve technical shirt on the way home and decided to try it out. I wish I could say I was warm, but it took me 3 miles to "warm up". I wanted to run outside though to prepare myself for the possibility of it being that cold at the beginning of the marathon... it looks like it just might be... a low in the 30's Saturday night. But with the possibility of it getting up into the 50's, it should be great weather - pay no attention to the 30% chance of precipitation. These are odds I can live with. I haven't had to run any of my runs in the rain when the forecast was 30% or less...

On another note, I received an e-mail on an update to the marathon movie, "Land Of The Gods" Read below for the content:

For all of you, who have patiently been waiting for a "Land of the Gods" update, please be the first to visit the film's new site - www.marathonmovie.com - which went online today complete with our most recent trailer. Also, look for the film trailer on the main stage at this year's Chicago Marathon Expo as well as on the giant screens at the finish line. -Producers "Land of the Gods: The Legend of the Marathon"

Can't wait to see this movie!

remaining hopeful

I have been looking at the weather a lot lately. Depending on which website one goes to, it varies. I found one that has an optimistic, if not downright great forecast for the 22nd. I am prepared for anything at this point - having run in every condition, but I would prefer a day like this (as I am sure everyone else would). And I know I may have said Mother Nature redeemed herself this past weekend, but I take it back. She will only be redeemed by giving us great weather for Chicago!

With that said, I still need to acquire a new long sleeve technical shirt for the marathon, just in case. In fact a new short sleeve one would be good too. Most of my shirts are about one size too large for me now, but I have run in them all year. There's nothing like marathon training to help you drop the weight and keep it off! I certainly want a chance to try the new shirt out regardless of whether it is the same shirt I already have or not...

Another wild week at work - hardly the "preferred" tapering environment for me. I haven't run since Sunday. Monday I overslept and woke up at the time I was supposed to be leaving the office to go to an early morning meeting. I have never used so much profanity that early in the morning. I really should have been a sailor. It all turned out okay - I was actually only 30 minutes late - no harm done I suppose. Last night I was at work until 11pm... no rest for the wicked... ugh. I did sleep in until 6:30 this morning, so that wasn't too bad. I slept better than I have in a long time too - exhaustion will do that to you. I am truly hoping to get some quality sleep in the remaining, *gulp*, 10 days?!?! Shit! 10 days?!?! No time to freak out yet.

An easy 3 mile run this evening to keep the ol' legs loose and then a 5 mile MP run for Thursday... then it is my last "long" run for the training - 8 miles at MP. I am feeling good and just anxious to run this thing. I am like a race horse in the starting corral ready to go! But rest is what my legs and my mind need most right now.

My wife and I are making this event a mini-vacation of sorts. We are leaving Friday to go up to northern Indiana to stay at a B&B and then take the train in on Saturday afternoon to check into our hotel and go to the Expo. That night we will meet up with my training partners from Indy to go to Harry Caray's for our carb load dinner. It will be a lot of fun... regardless of the weather.

disaster, or how not to have a cookout

My cookout was a disaster. Okay, maybe that is an overstatement, but it was lame. It boiled down to "what can go wrong will."

It started with me forgetting to take the chicken and hamburger out of the freezer in the morning and not remembering until early afternoon... not a huge deal though. Guests showed up and I found out that one of them was allergic to cats (Andy) - oops I forgot to ask about this first, as we have two cats. Furniture had been vacuumed, etc. but I still felt bad.

Got the food on the grill a little late, but no big deal, we had plenty of drinks and snacks (wine, beer, soda, pita bread and hummus, chips and salsa, and veggies and dip) to keep our hunger in check. I kept checking on the food and it was grilling perfect. On one occasion though, I came back and found I had run out of propane... no problem, I had a spare tank in the garage. So I went and got it, hooked it up and the valve was not working - gas would not come out! So plan C went into affect, shoved the chicken and burgers into the oven to cook. The burgers finished before the chicken, so I had people who wanted burger go ahead and dig in. The rest of us had the side dishes, all of which were great! The chicken got done about ten minute later, but no one had any - just me. It wasn't that good - no grilled taste to it... The highlight was dessert - key lime pie and yellow cake with chocolate frosting. Very very good.

It turned out that Andy started having a reaction the the cats - he had a rash forming on his arms...that pretty much ended the get togther. All by about 9pm... as I said - lame.

Actually, it was good it ended when it did. I was still al ittle tired from the work week and I had to get up this morning to run my 10 miles at marathon pace. Needless to say, I did not sleep well and ended up sleeping in longer than expected and then I moved around the house slowly. I finally got myself out the door by 10am and I was glad I did...

What a beautiful day! Mother Nature has redeemed herself for this summer's hot, humid weather we all endured during our training. The skies were a prefect shade of blue and not a cloud was in the sky. The trees were sporting there new colors - quite breathtaking. I chose to run on the Fall Creek Trail today just for the reason of being among the trees and hearing the crunching of the leaves below my feet.

The plan was 10 miles at MP. I felt a little slow but I apparently my body said it felt like doing a tempo run... oops. I will have to say that it did not feel like an all out effort, so an 9:00/mile pace is going to feel easy for the marathon. Here are the highlights:

• 10 miles in 85:33 for an average pace of 8:33
• First half run in 42:47
• Second half run in 42:46
• A negative split to boot!

I still believe...

P.S. I received my confirmation bookelt in the mail yesterday! #35036

the week from hell...

It has been a rough week for me.

Not because of any pain from my 24 mile run on Sunday. In fact, I have felt great.

No, the week has been an extremely busy one for me at work. Early mornings and late nights. I am thankful that it is time to taper - it couldn't have come at a better time. The down side to this is that I am not getting any rest. I am actually exhausted and should be in bed. I need to relax, but before I do that I need to celebrate...

To Celebrate the taper, I am throwing a cookout for me and my friends. Nothing like Bob's Chili Dump - just a laid back get together with my fellow Indy Chicago Bound Runners. Andy, his fiance, Jason and his girlfriend are coming - unfortunately Brooke and her husband couldn't make it :( The weather promises to be perfect, so here's to week 1 of taper complete! Sunday I will get out for my 10 mile run. I plan on doing it at MP to see how it goes this time. I am almost nervous about the run because of how awesome the 24 miler was - I wouldn't want to have a bad run to break my confidence...

In 2 weeks I will be in Chi-town... can't wait!

i believe

After seeing the forecast for the weekend towards the end of the week, it was decided that we would run on Sunday (it turned out that Saturday was a perfect day too - no rain as had been forecasted). To put a postive spin on the decision, it will help us train our internal clocks for running in three Sundays from now.

My recovery run on Friday was pretty remarkable for me. I went out with the idea of going slow and taking it easy. I even felt slower than usual. The remarkable part was when I finished the run and looked down at my time...my average pace for the run was 8:57/mile. It really boosted my morale and I felt good about my running - something so simple changed my outlook on the marathon. A four hour marathon seemed possible.

Fast forward to Saturday night. I got home and there was a message from Jason on the answering machine... he wouldn't be able to run on Sunday... that left just me and Brooke.

This morning was a very cool, crisp autumn-like morning. We had already made plans to start early, so we got to the Monon Trail at 6am to start our run. It was desolate and dark in the area, for our safety we decided we would start out on the Monon first before heading out on the loop route. It was tough to see the actual path, but we could make out the edges of the pavement. Another thing that helped us see the path were the fire flies. They seemed to be randomly spread out on the path. It was like running through stars... kind of surreal. The first 6 miles was run out and back on the Monon and we ended up back at the truck where I ditched my long sleeve shirt since I had warmed up. Then we decided to forget the loop route, since neither of us cared for the downtown part and decided we could run 6 miles south to the end of the path and then 6 miles back and then finish the run with the same out and back we had run in the dark. We headed south and the sky was lightening up. We felt good on the run down to the turn around point. We stopped briefly to stretch and take a drink. My lower back was sore, but a quick stretch felt good. We head back north still feeling good, and made it to our next water stop where we stretched again and refilled our water bottles. A couple of miles later, we were back at the truck, a quick stretch, a bathroom break and a refill of gatorade into my water bottle and we headed out for our last 6 miles. With each stop it was harder to get going again, but we managed to push on. At the turn around point we stopped for one last stretch and drink and headed back. I could feel the urge to just get finished and our pace was picking up, but it felt good! I glanced at my watch at one point and our pace was almost a 9:00/mile! I didn't say anything at first, but a few minutes later asked Brooke how she felt. She said she felt good , so we kept up the pace. I called out our last mile and that is where we were starting to feel a little tired. When I saw that we ran the 23rd mile at a 9:03/mile pace we thought it would be best to back off the pace and cruise into the finish -- why risk blowing out a knee or something from pushing too hard? The total effort was relatively easy. I believe we can run this thing in four hours now -- I really do.

We finished the 24 miles and felt incredible! Better than the 23 miles we did two weeks ago and better than our last long run for last year's marathon training!

To celebrate our awesome run, we headed to the Monon Coffee Company for a refreshing beverage and some food. I had a 'loco-mocha freeze' and some pumpkin bread - it hit the spot.

I smell something now... no not my running clothes... this smells sweet. Do you smell it? Yep - it's taper. We made it. The three weeks we have all worked so hard to get to.

I am prepared.

I am ready.

I will see you in Chicago in three weeks!!!

Here are the splits if interested...

Average Pace: 9:56/mile

1. 10:07
2. 10:23
3. 10:09
4. 9:43
5. 9:48
6. 10:58 (this included a walk to the truck)
7. 10:09
8. 10:18
9. 9:58
10. 9:59 (got into a rhythm)
11. 9:52 (faster)
12. 9:48 (faster still)
13. 9:47 (still picking up pace)
14. 9:45 (can't slow us down!)
15. 9:39 (on fire)
16. 9:44
17. 10:11 (stopped to stretch and refill water)
18. 9:31 (back on track)
19. 10:26 (stopped at truck / bathroom break)
20. 10:00
21. 9:52
22. 9:34
23. 9:03* (amazing - felt great)
24. 9:25 (eased up at end - felt awesome!)

working hard

It continues to be a rough week. Busy. Busy. Busy. I was able to get my recovery run in on Tuesday - I even got to run at Fort Harrison State Park - a place I haven't run in some time. It was a nice change of scenery. I ran it a little fast, but it felt good to 'get the lead out'. Last night was my tempo run. Another 8 miles. Started out with the skies overcast and ominous looking... I got about a half mile into the run and it started to rain. I wasn't feeling into the run, but I pushed on. It continued to rain. I felt slow and sluggish and wet. I had planned to go out 4 miles and turn around, but at mile 3 I felt dejected and turned around and headed back. I stopped a half mile later and stretched for a couple of seconds and then kept going. I was eager to finish this awful run. As I was approaching my start point, I felt guilty, so I pushed on a little more and decided to suck it up and finish it. Two more miles later, I was finished. Here are my surprising results:

1. 8:15/mile
2. 8:54/mile
3. 8:49/mile
4. 8:44/mile
5. 8:31/mile
6. 8:42/mile
7. 8:32/mile
8. 8:08/mile

Average Pace: 8:36/mile

Maybe not as fast as last week's tempo run, but I feel pretty good that even in the rain, feeling tired and sluggish I was still able to pull out some decent splits (although a little inconsistant).

Tonight is a rest night and tomorrow another run. Then rest for Sunday's 24 mile run...

the downward spiral

The last three days (so far) have not been good. After my lackluster week last week, I started off this week still wrestling with my work schedule and my training. Work is winning right now :( I was up late on Sunday night reviewing some drawings for another project, then I had to wake up early - 4:30 am to get to work at 5:00 am (which is some sort of record for me) to find out that I wasn't needed for an early morning meeting that required an hour of travel time. I was relieved to not have to go, but I was exhausted. To make up for my early morning, I planned to leave at 4:00 pm. Well, 4:00 pm came and went and I didn't leave until 6:30 pm. My run I had scheduled for yesterday? Nope. Didn't happen...grumble, grumble... The schedule for today was another early morning meeting - this time even earlier. It was scheduled for 6:15 am... yeah, right. I got up at 3:30 am this morning (yes, this is considered morning), got ready and got to work by 4:30 am. No cars there yet, but I was a little early -- We wouldn't need to leave until 5:00 am to make it there for the meeting. I apparently didn't get the memo because no one showed up at work... grumble, grumble. The meeting is still happening, but I will be missing it. Had I known that I would be traveling solo, I could have gotten a little more sleep and left right from home... grumble, grumble... I am leaving in a half hour to go to the next meeting (there is a series of meetings throughout the day - all of which I will need to attend). I am hoping to be able to get home at a reasonable time tonight and get my run in that I missed. Now is not the time to let my training slip - I have put in way too much effort and made too many sacrifices... it is now less than 4 weeks away...

dave-sleep+stress+humidity = a tired, stressed, wet dave

I have been looking forward to this run all week. A step back run of only 14 miles. This past week has been the worst of any week throughout training. After last weekends 23 mile run, I was feeling pretty good, even if I am another year older now. I was ready for my usual recovery run on Monday, but the schedule was a little different and had me rest an extra day. I was going to ignore this, but when it came time to run, life and work got in the way a bit and changed my plans. I was okay with this," better to rest like the schedule said", I thought. I knew I would be out of town on Wednesday so I moved my 8 mile tempo run to Tuesday night, so all the more reason for the extra day of rest. Then the rest of the week?

Nothing. Zip. Nada. My work schedule increased exponentially and my short runs and cross training went by the way side. It made me grumpy, but I thought a little rest couldn't hurt anyway. This is where there is a flaw in my thinking...I didn't get any rest, I have been exhausted for the last couple of days. It was all I could do to stay up until 10 last night. I tried to sleep in a little later than usual this morning and start the run a little later than usual. It didn't help much - the cats thought I was supposed to get up at my usual time and didn't let me sleep in. Damn cats! The weather called for a 50% chance of rain all day. I didn't let that influence my decision to run. Unless it was pouring down rain, I was going to run. I met Jason at his place at 8am. The sky was overcast and it was an comfortable 68 degrees. The surprising thing was the humidity. It felt very damp out. At first, it didn't feel too bad, but as the run progressed, I was feeling the dampness all the way through my body. I felt like we were running through a tropical jungle. My clothes were soaked, my feet were soaked -- I even think my fingers were pruning! About 2 miles into the run, I was feeling ready to turn around and quit. I felt horrible. Jason wasn't feeling all that good either, but we both decided we needed to do this run and were going to finish it - all 14 miles. The goal was to run this easy for the first two miles, then slip into marathon pace for the remaining 12. Well, we started out just about on pace and were fairly consistant for awhile, then we turned around and ran into a strong head wind... mentally it was beating me up. In fact, it was like having deja vu. Last night I had a disturbing dream that I was out for a run when all of a sudden I was running as hard as I could, but I was barely moving forward... does this mean anything? I love the foreshadowing, but hate that it was so damn literal...

We plodded along, feeling more and more lousy, but refused to give up. We pushed through and actually finished stronger than I thought we would. This run was not a huge confidence builder for me, but a lot of these shorter step-back runs have not been. If I look for a silver lining in all of this, it is that eventhough we felt like crap for the run, our average pace was a respectable 9:18/mile, we were still able to finish strong and my legs never felt like they were ready to give out. I am sticking to my original goals still... for better or for worse... Here's how it all went down:

• Mile 1 -- 9:02
• Mile 2 -- 9:09
• Mile 3 -- 9:02
• Mile 4 -- 9:20
• Mile 5 -- 9:06
• Mile 6 -- 9:24
• Mile 7 -- 9:17
• Mile 8 -- 9:17
• Mile 9 -- 9:27
• Mile 10 -- 9:38
• Mile 11 -- 9:38
• Mile 12 -- 9:24
• Mile 13 -- 9:31
• Mile 14 -- 8:55

t-minus 30 days and counting…

I had a good tempo run on Tuesday night. I switched my schedule due to another all day trip to Michigan. I wasn’t sure I was ready for it after the 23 miles on Saturday, but with two whole days of rest my legs were feeling just fine. I met Jason at his place after work – once again I was detained longer than I had expected, but only by 40 minutes. We started out easy, just trying for a 9:00/mile pace so we wouldn’t go out too fast and have to adjust our pace the entire run. The last couple of miles were starting to feel a little bit like work, but my legs never felt tired. A great run for both of us, and Jason’s best run in a long time. A good confidence booster… Here are our splits:

• Mile 1 – 9:07 (taking it easy)
• Mile 2 – 9:06 (still taking it easy)
• Mile 3 – 8:45 (right where we were supposed to be)
• Mile 4 – 8:28 (picked up the pace – felt good)
• Mile 5 – 8:25 (on cruise control)
• Mile 6 – 8:26
• Mile 7 – 8:29
• Mile 8 – 7:40 (nice way to finish – felt good)

Average Pace: 8:33/mile

I plan on a short recovery run tonight and then cross train on Friday. Then it is time for a 14 mile MP run on Saturday…only 14 miles…piece of cake…

Oh yeah, by the way – only 30 days to go… bring it on…