Year in Review

Since the 16th I took 4 days off and ran the following:

5.3   miles 19th

6.5   miles 20th

6.0   miles 21st

5.2   miles 23rd

3.65 miles 24th

11.1 miles 25th

7.0  miles  27th

3.1  miles 28th

3.1  miles 29th

6.0  miles 30th

10.1 miles today

The last 5 days in the list I ran on a treadmill. We joined Gold's Gym because the weather has been awful. It's been hard to run on the roads. Snow and cars.

The treadmill did my neck in. My ankles and legs feel fine. The treadmill hurts my back and neck; the road hurts my feet, ankles and legs. A mix of both would be good. We just got 7 more inches of snow today. I was hoping to start the new year off with at least a 6 mile run.

I ran 1992 miles in 2008; 6 marathons and had a lot of fun. My new job is terrific and I look forward to helping AWH have a great year inspite of the recession.

Peace and Happy New Year and another year of marathoning in 2009.

Awesome Day!

I had the best run today. It all started last night when I used a foam roller on both of my legs. I would roll until there was a tightness/pain and I would hold it until it went away.

10.3 miles in 1:25:10 for a 8:16.1/mi. pace and I still feel good after using the foam roller after the run.

Off to get our Christmas tree with 2 of my daughters.

The Cold has Taken its Toll

I ran only 3 days last week. 6.3 miles on Sunday and I couldn't run Monday. The bottom of my right foot hurt. I ran Tuesday 5.1 miles and then took Wednesday through Friday off. 

I bought Lance Armstrong Nike's on Thursday, they are much more cushioned in the toes, and I was told by the person at Dick's that they are for people with high arches too. It was only the second time that someone at Dick's seemed knowledgeable. She and her husband are runners and she suggested the Nikes.

I ran 18.2 miles on Saturday; I ran 4 miles to the artificial track at the high school, 10.2 miles on the track and 4 miles home. I felt really good. 

Shannon had me make the Dragon's Blood into a paste and I put it on both achilles. I also used the foam roller on both achilles/calfs.

Sunday I ran 8.2 miles at 7.1 mph in 1:08:55. I felt good all day. I didn't want to over do it so I took today off. 

I have run over 1900 miles; I hope to get close to 2000.

Into December

I had to take 3 days off. My legs are too tight from running on the frozen roads.

I was able to run on Wednesday the 3rd and Thursday the 4th.

5.2 miles each day. 8:16 and 8:06 per mile. I had to stretch a lot to keep my legs loose.

Today I ran 10.5 miles in 1:27:10 at 7.2 mph for a pace of 8:18.1/mi.

I had a massage today and Shannon worked on me for almost 2 hours. My legs feel very good NOW but I will take it easy tomorrow. Without Shannon's help I would not have been able to run all the marathons and feel as good as I do.

I have told her she should find a forum to write a help column; she has great advice which I am sure could help a number of athletes. Maybe you will see her advice soon :-) 

Manchester and Beyond

I took off the 21st and 22nd. I almost never take Saturday off; I love running long on Saturdays. I was tired and my legs hurt. I am always hopeful that an extra day off will help. 

Sunday the 23rd I was able to run 14.4 miles; 13.1 in 1:47:55 an excellent time for me. 

Monday I ran 4.1 miles in 33:52 at 7.3 mph for 8:15.6/mi. My legs HURT! 

I took Tuesday and Wednesday OFF.

The 72nd Manchester Road Race and my 19th was a beautiful day. I got there early enough to warm up. I felt good the whole race and came in 824th out of about 11,000 in 34:06; a little slower than last year. I got to run with a friend, Linda Yamamoto and I got to see a friend, Simone Warner, after the race.

I ran Friday and Saturday; 6.2 miles on Friday and 11.0 miles on Saturday. My left ankle stopped me from running 3 times on Saturday. I feel fine and my ankle is OK but I need to take some time off AGAIN! 126 miles for the month is kinda low. But I'm on pace to run 1950 miles for the year.

Down Time

My legs are tired.

I have been running OK but this cold weather and wearing crummy dress shoes to work have taken a toll on my legs. Here is what I have done since the 11th:

Nov 12   6.2  miles      49:56   7.4 mph  8:03.2/mi.  

Nov 13   4.1  miles      33:47   7.3 mph  8:14.4/mi.

Nov 14   OFF

Nov 15  10.4 miles  1:23:30   7.4 mph  8:01.7/mi.

Nov 16  10.0 miles  1:24:00  7.1 mph  8:24.0/mi. legs tired

Nov 17   5.2  miles     42: 40  7.3 mph  8:12.3/mi.

Nov 18   OFF Too tired right knee and left calf hurt

Nov 19   5.2 miles     41:15    7.5 mph  7:56.0/mi. legs felt GOOD!

Nov 20  4.2 miles     33:58    7.4 mph  8:05.2/mi. tired

This has been a tough week. I'm going to ramble here a bit. I know I will have to cut back on my massages. I just don't have enough money. I'll miss talking to Shannon too; my legs really feel so much better after getting massages and I love her advice! Shannon has been good to me. She has given me more time than I have paid for which has been a blessing. Before I met her I had not run any marathons. Now Houston will be my 18th in less than 5 years. I am still amazed! If I had the money I would get 2 massages a week. It seems like my wife and I have lived our whole lives together with little extra money for things that help make life enjoyable.  Although I have enjoyed a lot of good quality beers. ;-)

I have run so many marathons in the last year because I feel that time is running out for me. You only have so many marathons in your legs, especially if you run as fast as you can. I try to run fast but I always have in my mind that too fast will limit the number I can run. Usually I hold back some to see how I feel until the last 6-10 miles and see how I am doing. I'll go for it then! I'll certainly miss the speed that I have so I want to run as much as I can while I feel good. Well enough of that. 

The Manchester Road Race is on Thanksgiving Day. The 72nd running. This is my 19th year. This is my speed race for the year since I don't run many short races in the year. 

I'm listening to the UConn Men's soccer team play Fairfield so I'll end this so I can concentrate on the game. Cheers. TGIF

Back at IT!

I took last week off. 3 marathons in 9 weeks. That is the most I have ever done in that amount of time. Taking a week off seems to be the right amount of time for me. I have read that you can take as much as 2 weeks off and I have also read that you should take a week off even when you don't run a race but just after a certain amount of time of hard training. I prefer to run a race then take time off. 

My bunyon on my left foot has changed my foot. You probably only have so many marathons in you and definitely only so many at a faster speed. This year I have found that the second day I start running again I have thoughts that I may not be able to run the same or my future plans may have to change. BUT my feet today seem OK. I did run too fast yesterday. I don't set a certain speed I just go out and run. Here is what I did the last 3 days:

11/09   4.2 miles in 34:04  at 7.4 mph for a pace of 8:06.7/mi.

11/10   5.3 miles in 40:49  at 7.8 mph for a pace of 7:42.1/mi.

11/11   4.2 miles in 34:21   at 7.3 mph for a pace of 8:10.7/mi.

The 7:42 per mile was too fast. My legs bothered me all day. I ran slower and shorter today and felt OK. My thighs hurt some today and my right ankle BUT after I stopped running everything was OK.

No matter what time I go to bed I wake up between 4 and 5 AM. Tomorrow I hope to run a slow 6 miler.   

 

Manchester City Results

Here are the results from the Manchester City Marathon; I was 122 out of 434:

122 Keith Almeida             56    138 M   2/27    Enfield CT              3:38:37   8:21

The day started cold (30 F) and windy.

My left ankle "popped " at mile 9. I stopped and tied my left shoe tighter and ran a little slow for a while. At mile 12 I started to talk to a guy, Andy from Columbus OH and continued to talk nonstop until almost mile 22. It helped get through all those miles.

I actually had a kick at the end and ran past someone in my age group about 50 feet from the finish. I felt great afterwards!

Manchester City Marathon Sunday

I haven't written since last Thursday. Saturday 10.4 miles in 1:24:00 7.4 mph but I didn't feel great after; my left side was way too tight. I had a massage and went to a Cub Scout outing from 3-8 so I decided that it was best to take Sunday off.

On Monday I had a pinched nerve in my left leg. Monday and Tuesday I didn't sleep well.

For the next 3 days I ran:

10/28 4.1 miles  7.4 mph 33:30 8:10.2/mi.

10/29 7.1 miles  7.3 mph 58:28 8:14.1/mi.

10/30 5.3 miles 7.4 mph 42:44 8:03.8/mi.

Last week I was much faster. My leg finally felt OK last night after I used a tennis ball to loosen the nerve in my upper left leg. Today I got out of work at 12 because I originally planned to drive up to Manchester and pick up my number/chip today but my plans have changed. I going up tomorrow and staying over night. BUT today I was riding around town and realized that the old car (20 years old next month) which I am driving since my car died did not have enough cushion in the seat and my back/spine hurt.

I have never run 6 marathons in 7 months. I feel like I am OK because in the past I have run long miles a lot between races and frankly, after being laid off in January, I felt I was very fortunate to find a job at a company which seemed to like it that I liked to exercise. I just have this feeling that with the economy the way it is, I should run as many marathons I can because if I have to find another job, I may not be so blessed AND it is really cool to be part of the Marathon Maniacs.

Tomorrow off to Manchester. I love running marathons!!!

My son Keith is running the full marathon in Raleigh, Sony Ericsson City of Oaks Marathon.

I hope he runs a conservative race; I think he can run a sub 4:00 if he does.

Of course NYC has a marathon this weekend too! That was great fun last year. I'll run it again before I'm done.

Surprise!

I take the week off after marathons now. It really helps me to recover.

So I was off from October 12 through the 17th. I know it wasn't a full week but I listen to my body and my  legs started to hurt from not running. Also I was getting a massage and I felt running was the right thing to do.

So here is what I have done since the 17th:

Oct 18  5.2   miles  at   43:43    7.1 mph    at a pace of 8:24.4/mi.

Oct 19  7.1   miles  at   58:08    7.3 mph    at a pace of 8:11.3/mi.

Oct 20 4.25 miles  at   32:21    7.9 mph  at a pace of 7:36.7/mi. 

Oct 21 8.1    miles  at 1:04:45   7.5 mph    at a pace of 7:59.6/mi.

Oct 22 4.4   miles  at   33:50    7.8 mph  at a pace of 7:41.4/mi.

Oct 23 6.1   miles  at   48:07    7.6 mph     at a pace of 7:53.3/mi.

Oct 24 OFF

Last weekend one of my cousins husband ran the RI Breakers marathon in 3:28. We may be in the same corral in Boston this year. THAT would be so cool!!!

My car died again yesterday; it may be over for my SL2. The best car I have ever had.

My son Keith is running in Raleigh NC on Nov 2. I think he can run the full but he may opt for the half. He should have FUN; that's what it is all about.

The long term forecast for Manchester city is for snow. I have never run a marathon in snow.

I'm not sure how to wear the "Maniac" shirt.

6 marathons in one year and I had some good times and GOOD TIMES!

I'll see Shannon for a tune up Saturday. Then I am camping with the Cub Scouts that night.

It is suppose to RAIN :-(

Hopefully, it won't effect my legs. It's going to be cold too. 

ING Greater Hartford Marathon

What a day. The weather was perfect and I got to say hi to about 20 fellow Maniacs. The marathon is an out and back on a beautiful road in East Hartford and South Windsor.

I got in the porta potty line at 7:40 with layers of clothes on. I thought I would get through in 20 minutes. I finished at about 7:52, 8 minutes before the race. I ran back to my car took off the outer clothes and put my sunglasses on and ran to the start. I had to squeeze down the outside behind the barrier. A young lady just behind the Elites said she was looking for the 4 hour pacer. As she moved over to the side I was able to get in just behind the first mat.

I gun went off and I was up very close to the front. The half starts with the full so I was running too fast at first. My first 2 miles were at an 8.2 mph pace. I slowed over the next 2 miles to 7.8 mph and bounced between 7.8 and 7.7 for most of the race. The very end has 3 hills and before the hills I was on a 3:29+ pace. 

I finished in 3:31:26 for 344 overall and 5th (5/75) in my age group M55-59. I missed 3rd by 2:41.It was a great day and I will use this time to run Boston next year.  

Update: Harford Marathon This Weekend

Since I last wrote I have run the following:

Sept 30  7.0 miles in    56:04  at 7.5 mph for a pace of 8:00.6/mi.

Oct     1  6.1 miles  in    48:30  at 7.5 mph for a pace of 7:57.0/mi.

Oct     2  6.1 miles  in    49:24  at 7.4 mph for a pace of 8:05.9/mi.

Oct     3  OFF

Oct     4  11.1 miles in 1:27:00 at 7.6 mph for a pace of 7:50.3/mi.

Oct     5   7.2 miles  in    58:28 at 7.4 mph for a pace of 8:07.2/mi.

Oct     6   5.1 miles  in   41:24  at 7.4 mph for a pace of 8:07.1/mi.

For the Adirondack Marathon I couldn't run much the week before; it was due to worn out shoes. I just ordered 2 more pairs but I have been running in the same Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8's since Sept 30. I feel good and received a massage on Saturday. I am scheduled for one on Thursday but I'm not sure if I should get one so close to the marathon on Saturday.  

Adirondack Marathon

Since my left achilles was really tight all week I took it easy for the first 3 miles.  Then it got hilly from 3 to mile 11. Up and up. It was a beautiful course BUT more hills than any marathon I have run. The first 13.1 were short 3 and 4 part hills; the last 13.1 were long sweeping hills.

I came in 49th in 3:45:34; 2nd in my age group M55-59. I received a large maple leaf glass container full of maple syrup. That was cool. The top runners received large bear statues which was also very cool.

On Friday I still didn't know if I could make it all the way through so I was thrilled with my time and felt OK most of the run.

Now I have less than 2 weeks until Hartford. I hope to run between 3:29 and 3:39.

Today I ran 4 miles today after Biking the Berkshires on Saturday, a charity ride for MS. I rode 51 miles in 3:45. It was fun biking until some guy ran by me and I was wishing I was able to run ;-) 

Boston AMA Marketing Conference

I ran on Thursday September 11, 6.1 miles at 7.5 mph. Felt good. Saturday I ran 10.4 miles at 7.8 mph. I got a massage at 11 AM. My legs felt OK but they did not recover by Sunday.

I usually try to follow a plan so I ran 10.0 miles in 1:20:00 at 7.5 mph. My legs were tired!!

I had to get up at 4:20 AM omn Monday to get to Boston. My car died in the toll booth getting onto the Masspike. I got help and finally got home to get one of my daughter's car. I got to Boston in time but was tired.

Tuesday I ran on a treadmill 6.3 miles but my left leg/ankle was hurting. I tried to sprint to the elevator after and my ankle gave out. SO I have taken the last 4 days off.

I saw one of my massage therapists on Wednesday night and had my back ajusted.

Today I took Tylenol and I do feel OK now. A good nights rest and I should be ready to run on Sunday.

I hope the Adirondack Marathon is not as steep as it sounds;-)

I'll write on Monday how I did and what I thought of the race.

Fall is Here

It was cool to run in a tank top today. My arms were cold at the end of the run.

Yesterday I ran 7.1 miles in 55:30 at 7.7 mph for a pace of 7:49.0/mi.

Today I ran about as fast as I ever run; 6.2 miles in 46:45 at 8.0 mph for a pace of 7:32.4/mi.

I ran in Asics 2102's. I find they are great up to 10 miles but a little soft for me on longer runs.

I felt great this morning!

2 Weeks Til the Adirondack Marathon

My last post was on August 29th. Here is what I have been running since:

Date Distance Time MPH Pace/mi.
30-Aug 15 1:55:05 7.8 07:40.3
31-Aug 8.1 1:03:00 7.7 07:46.7
1-Sep OFF
2-Sep 7.3 57:01:00 7.7 07:48.6
3-Sep 5.4 41:17:00 7.8 07:38.7
4-Sep 7.2 57:09:00 7.6 08:03.2
5-Sep 7.1 57:11:00 7.5 08:03.2
6-Sep 10.2 1:20:00 7.5 07:50.6
7-Sep 10.0 1:20:00 7.4 08:00.0
8-Sep OFF

I finally got a massage on Saturday; I hadn't had one for a few weeks. I use foam rollers, pro stretch, "The Stick", tennis balls, etc. for my feet/legs and stretch a lot but nothing really helps as much as getting a massage. It works out all the kinks in an hour.

I am excited about the Fall marathons. I hope to have pictures to post too.

Faster All Week

After cutting my leg on Saturday, I didn't know how I would run this week. The Oxy socks have helped. I did take Tuesday off but my legs were just tired. Here are my times for Monday, Wednesday and Thursday:
August 25 6.0 miles 47:02 at 7.2 mph 7:50.3/mi.
August 27 8.1 miles 1:04:10 at 7.6 mph 7:55.3/mi.
August 28 10.4 miles 1:19:45 at 7.9 mph 7:31.4/mi.

I took off Wednesday morning and all day Thursday. I felt more rested and my times got better all week. I just sent for a new pair of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8's.

Musing About August

First, I have gotten faster this month and with less than a month til my first of three Fall marathons I'm feeling good. Yesterday while cutting the grass I sliced the top of my left leg on a metal post. It hurt today when I ran and bleed a little but I think it's OK. Below is a summary of what I have done since the 5th:

August 6 4.0 mi. 32:31 7.4 mph 8:07.8/mi.
7 4.1 mi. 32:25 7.6 mph 7:54.4/mi.
8 OFF
9 16.4 mi. 2:14:45 7.3 mph 8:13.0/mi.
10 OFF
11 7.0 mi. 59:14 7.1 mph 8:20.6/mi.
12 7.1 mi. 59:07 7.2 mph 8:19.6/mi.
13 OFF
14 7.1 mi. 57:51 7.4 mph 8:08.9/mi.
15 OFF
16 20.4 mi. 2:48:30 7.2 mph 8:15.6/mi.
17 OFF
18 7.2 mi. 1:08:00 6.3 mph 9:26.7/mi. (I ran with my son Keith)
19 7.0 mi. 57:53 7.2 mph 8:16.1/mi.
20 5.1 mi. 41:47 7.3 mph 8:11.6/mi.
21 7.2 mi. 56:58 7.6 mph 7:54.7/mi.
22 OFF
23 13.3 mi. 1:45:00 7.6 mph 7:53.7/mi.
24 7.0 mi. 56:28 7.4 mph 8:04.0/mi.

Where Does the time go?

The weekend of the 26th I ran 10.2 miles (7:32/mi.) and 10.0 miles (8:05/mi.)
Lately, with cutting the grass and working in the garden on Sunday, my legs are dead on Monday so I took Monday off.
I was tired this week so after running 6.0 miles (8:04.7/mi.) I took Wednesday off too.
Thursday I ran 7.2 miles (8:06.1/mi.) Off on Friday;-)
Saturday I ran the John & Jessie Kelly 46th New London road race. I came in 88th in 1:27:26.3 a 7:32/mi. pace for 11.6 miles. It was about 13 seconds faster than last year so I was happy:-)
I don't usually run far on Sunday but I felt great so I went 10.5 miles in 1:26:00 (7.2 mph) at a pace of 8:11.4/mi.
Monday I took it easy, 4.1 miles at a pace of 8:10.7.mi.
Today I felt really good and went 7.1 miles (7.5 mph) at a pace of 7:58.3/mi.
After the race on Saturday I felt like I could still run a pace of 7:30 for a marathon. I hope to run Hartford in the 3:30's and Houston in 3:20 something. Hey right after that I turn 57 so if I don't do it now...

I Ran Twice Today

I ran this morning at 6:20 before it rained. I only went 5.3 miles in 41:52, 7.6 mph, at 7:54.0/mi. pace.
I then ran after work at 5:30; 6.2 miles in 51:20, 7.4 mph, at 8:16.8/mi. pace.
I felt I needed to get more miles in if I am going to run 3 marathons in the Fall.

I'm Still Running

I can't believe I haven't written since the 9th:-)
I took the next 2 days off; my legs were tired.
Here is an update of my running til today:

July 12 10.4 miles in 1:21:20 7.6 mph at 7:49.2/mi.
July 13 13.1 miles in 1:46:55 7.3 mph at 8:09.7/mi.
July 14 OFF
July 15 7.0 miles in 57:55 7.2 mph at 8:16.4/mi.
July 16 5.9 miles in 45:09 7.8 mph at 7:39.2/mi.
July 17 5.3 miles in 40:59 7.8 mph at 7:44.0/mi.
July 18 OFF
July 19 18.0 miles in 2:26:30 7.4 mph at 8:08.3/mi.
July 20 7.0 miles in 56:31 7.4 mph at 8:04.4/mi.
July 21 OFF
July 22 7.2 miles in 56:20 7.7 mph at 7:49.4/mi.
July 23 6.3 miles in 48:38 7.7 mph at 7:43.2/mi.

Some random thoughts: I have only gotten 1 massage for the month and I need more to run more distance in a week. I wake up most days between 4:50 and 5:10 and I get up between 5:40 and 5:55. I run all week in the morning. It's a little tough getting going but you can see by my times that I feel good. My legs seem to like early morning this time of year and I have been taking 2 days off a week for the last 4 weeks.
I took 3 powerade "gu's" on the 18 miler this weekend and I had to call my wife to bring me water just after mile 15 because it was hot 88 degrees and humid 85 percent.
I have been switching each other day from Asics 2120's to Brooks adenaline GTS 7's.
My totals for each week since the Lake Placid Marathon are:

June 22-June 28 43.6 miles
June 29-July 05 37.7 miles
July 06-July 12 36.3 miles
July 13-July 19 49.3 miles

This is an average of just over 41 miles/week but I would like to be over 40 miles every week.

End of June the Beginning of July

I'm on the computer all day at work. So I don't always feel like writing after I check my email at night, the weather is just too nice or the Sox are on TV. Here is a summary of what I have done since June 23rd:

June 24 6.1 miles in 50:42 7.2 mph at 8:18.7/mi.
June 25 4.0 miles in 32:39 7.3 mph at 9:09.8/mi.
June 26 7.0 miles in 57:34 7.3 mph at 8:13.4/mi.
June 27 OFF
June 28 14.4 miles in 1:53:00 7.5 mph at 7:54.1/mi.
June 29 10.1 miles in 1:23:00 7.2 mph at 8:13.1 mph
June 30 OFF Total for June 153 miles
July 1 5.1 miles in 42:19 7.2 mph at 8:17.8/mi.
July 2 OFF my calfs were really tight for the past 3 days
July 3 6.1 miles in 50:50 7.2 mph at 8:20.0/mi.
July 4 5.3 miles in 48:05 6.6 mph (ran with Simone) 9:04.3/mi.
July 5 11.1 miles in 1:30:30 7.3 mph at 8:09.2/mi.
July 6 10.7 mlies in 1:28:50 7.2 mph at 8:18.1/mi.
July 7 4.1 miles in 35:50 7.3 mph at :44.4/mi.
July 8 7.0 miles in 58:08 7.5 mph (this doesn't seem right) 8:18.3/mi.
July 9 4.1 miles in 31:37 7.8 mph at 7:42.7/mi.

I'm switching between Asics 2120's and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 7's enery other day. This has helped my legs.
I just ordered a new pair of Brooks GTS 8's.
Well I gota go eat. That's all for now.

Sunday/Monday

Yesterday I ran 8.1 miles in 1:06:00 (7.4 mph) at a pace of 8:08.9/mi. I felt good, my first 1.3 miles was at a 8.4 mph pace. My legs have recovered well. I didn't even have a massage since the race; I normally have one within 5 days.
Today I ran early; 4.1 miles in 32:00 (7.7 mph) at a pace of 7:48.3/mi.
I am trying a new sunscreen, aqua block SPF 50 by Nature's Gate.
Also I am trying arnica plus by Peaceful Mountain which says it is for pre and post exercise support.

It's Official

I am an official Marathon Maniac #1015, check it out at http://www.marathonmaniacs.com/ I'm at the bottom of the InSane AsyLum. I started running today. My left quad was a little tight but I was able to go 5.1 miles in 44:36 (6.9 mph) at a pace of 8:44.7/mi.

Lake Placid Marathon

I had a good week leading up to the marathon. I ran Monday through Thursday a total of 28 miles for the week.
It was a different marathon than I am use to. I went by myself; it took about 4 hours to drive there. The trip went well, the Google directions were perfect.
I didn't have to show ID to get my number. The people were friendly and very low key.
I stayed in Elizabethtown about 24 miles away. After I ate a late lunch I drove toward Elizabethtown to find a church. I was lost and just happened upon Holy Family at 3:57 and saw everyone going in for 4 o'clock mass. This was a good sign. After I asked directions to Elizabethtown.
My motel was a throw back to the 60's but it was nice and inexpensive. I was quoted over $200 in Lake Placid. My total bill was $65.
I left at 5:30 for the race. A deer ran in front of me about 5 miles down the road so I slowed down some. Another deer ran in front of me about 15 minutes later. But I arrived in one piece.
There was plenty of parking. Not a lot of people at first.
When we lined up the runners seemed reluctant to move to the line. I was about 10 feet back.
It started by going around a small lake. Very pretty.
Then out and back twice. When we turned at the ski jump the mountains were in the background. BEAUTIFUL! Everyone was encouraging and very friendly. I felt good but I started taking Gu at 5.5 miles and took 5 total at about 5.5, 10, 15, 19, 23. I also remembered to take Tylenol. There was a 12 year old that ran the 1/2 in 1:51.
It was great fun. I felt strong the whole time and ran past about 25 people in the last 10 miles.
I finished in 3:36:35 for 28th place overall and 3rd in my age group, 50 - 59.
I stayed around after to get my plaque and relax before driving back. I got home and my wife had a great supper for me on Father's Day. It was a great weekend.
I can now join the Marathon Maniacs!!! 3 marathons in 3 months was what I needed to accomplish. I did 3 in less than 2 months.

Less Than a Week to Lake Placid

Yesterday I ran 10.3 miles in 1:23:00 (7.4 mph) at a pace of 8:03.5/mi. It was incredably hot!!!
I haven't sweat so much in years. It hit 98 degrees today. I ran at 6:30 this morning so it was OK. 4.1 miles in 32:15 (7.6 mph) for a pace of 7:52.0/mi. It's going to be just as hot tomorrow. I have to stop writing to go cool off. We don't have air conditioning.

First Week on a New Job

The people at A.W. Hastings were very nice to me all week. What a wonderful company!!!
I ran in the morning before work and felt energizer each day.
Wednesday I ran 6.1 miles in 50:24 (7.3 mph) a pace of 8:15.7/mi. and on Thursday I ran 4.1 miles in 32:58 (7.4 mph) at a pace of 8:02.4/mi. I took Friday off to be consistent with my previous regiment.
Today I ran in 3 segment: 5.5 miles in 44:05 (7.5 mph) a pace of 8:00.9/mi. I finished at home so I could run with my friend Simone. We took off in a couple of minutes and ran 5.2 miles in 47:09 (6.6 mph) a pace of 9:04.0/mi. I left her after about 5 minutes and ran 4.3 miles in 32:07 (7.7 mph) a pace of 7:41.4/mi. 15 total mile. I felt good.
I then left to have a massage. Shannon did a great job!!! I feel great tonight even though I put in fence posts for my garden (90+ temperature) and cut part of the lawn (2 hours, I have a big lawn).
Hopefully tomorrow I can run 10 to start the week leading up to the marathon next Sunday.

June is Getting Hot

I know I reused a title from last June.
I will post some pictures from the Vermont marathon soon.
I had 2 massages last week and didn't start running again until Saturday. I ran 4.1 miles in 35:10 (7.0 mph) for a pace of 8:34.6/mi.
Sunday I ran with Simone. She is not back to where she was last October. She has 2 little ones to watch over. We ran 5.75 miles in 52:29 (6.6 mph) for a pace of 9:07.7/mi. It was OK because my hips have taken a beating lately.
I signed up to run the Lake Placid Marathon on Father's Day. It sounds REALLY hilly.
On Monday I started my new job. I ran at 6:35 AM 4.1 miles in 31:26 (7.8 mph) for a pace of 7:40.0/mi. It was the excitement of the first day. I felt like I was flying although it's not that fast.
Today I ran 4.7 miles in 39:12 (7.2 mph) for a pace of 8:20.4/mi. more in tune with how I have been feeling.
I hope to run at least 40 this week but it's only the second week after the marathon so I don't want to over do it.
Total miles for the month: 155. Total mile this year through today: 916.55

Key Bank Vermont City Marathon

My family loves the Burlington VT area. We stayed at 2 different Marriott motels. The first the TowneSuites. We had ajoining rooms. The staff was very helpful. It was nice. 4 stars.
On Sunday night we stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn which was even nicer and the staff were equally as nice.
The first night, Friday, 3 of us ate at the 3 Tomatoes next to the theater. The Switchback beer was excellent, bartender not so much and the calamere was salty.
Shaws has a great selection of natural foods which is in walking distance of the restaurant in Williston. But onto the race.
I had a banana and a power bar, Clif Builder, the morning of the race and I remembered the Tylenol. The night before Keith and I had whole wheat pasta, I had a couple of beers.
The weather was perfect. We started with the 9:00/mile group. This is a great race because the family gets to see you at the start, 3.3 miles, 8.7 miles, 15.1 miles, and the finish. Keith was high fiving everyone as we went by.
Keith was on pace for a sub 4 hour until his IT band acted up at mile 14. He had to stretch it at every drink stop from 15 miles on. But he hung in there and he finished in 7:25:12 taking 30 minutes off his Chicago time. A new PR!!! I finished 1 second back. I may write more later. It was a wonderful experience to run the whole race with my son. Not many people get the chance. I'll always remember it.

Saturday May17th

I ran with Steve Warner for the first time in months. We ran 4 miles at a 6.5 mph pace. Steve hasn't been running much we started out taking it easy and 4 miles was enough.
I ran a total of 10.5 miles in 1:34:40 (6.7 mph) at a 9:01.0/mi. pace. This is exactly what I hope I can get my son to run in the Vermont City Marathon on Sunday. We would come in at 3:56 for 26.2 I try JOTT today for my up date. I'll see if I did it right and if it does up date correctly.

Running This Week

I took Sunday off and ran Monday through Thursday. Here is a summary for the week:
Monday 10.0 miles (6.9 mph) at a 8:37.0/mi. pace
Tuesday 7.1 miles (7.2 mph) at a 8:16.8/mi. pace
Wednesday 10.4 miles (7.2 mph) at a 8:14.7/mi. pace
Thursday 4.2 miles (7.5 mph) at a 7:59.8/mi. pace
I have been busy going to interviews but no job yet.
I have also added a few links.
Tomorrow I'll take the day off and get a massage.

2 Weeks Til Vermont

On Thursday I ran 10.1 miles in 1:25:10 (7.1 mph) at a pace of 8:25.9/mi.
I took Friday off and got a massage. My legs felt a little tired.
I read that article on Slogging and Jogging in Running Times and I thought I might try it this Summer.
Today I ran 4.1 miles with a friend, Simone, and then ran another 10.3 miles. In total I ran 14.4 miles in 2:02:00 (7.1 mph) at a pace of 8:28.3/mi. With Simone we ran a 6.7 mph pace. That was good because I will try to pace my son in Vermont and he runs closer to 6.7 mph.
I just signed up for JOTT to try and post using my cell phone.
I'll see if it works later today.

...Update

Wow! it's been a week since I wrote. I guess since I'm probably the only one who reads this it doesn't really matter.
I ran last Thursday 7.1 miles at 7.5 mph in 56:38 a 7:58.6/mi. pace. I had gotten a phone interview and felt very good. However, I took Saturday and Sunday off because my legs still did not feel right.
Saturday My daughter Kelly presented her Honors Thesis and received her metal along with her boyfriend Tom. It was a great day as good as a great run!
I called Shannon on Sunday because I felt sooo bad. She didn't call me back but I thought of all the advice she always gives me and then I ran 7.4 miles in an hour (7.4 mph) at an 8:06.5/mi. pace. My legs felt better after the run. Monday 10.4 in 1:26:25 at 7.2 mph in 8:18.6/mi. I felt good but I was hoping to run at a slower pace one my son would run.
Tuesday I ran 6.2 miles in 51:58 (7.1 mph) at a 8:22.9/mi. pace. My legs are a little tired today.
So now it's Wednesday and I actually took the day off to garden. I t was a beautiful day. Really beautiful. I got a new plot done, Bob A helped with the hops, and I got some flowers and vegetables planted. I even applied for a couple of jobs!
Bridget our Beagle got loose 6 times today. It was so funny at one point I was in the garden with Bob and Bridget was next to the fence between us and the park and I said had the dog is loose. It took us about 5 minutes to get her but she was running free and I thought it was so great!!! She is so fast. She loves to just run and follow a scent.

A Great Day

Today was a great day!!! I got several job applications filled out and all kinds of things done around the house.
I ran 6 miles in 50:10 (7.1 mph) at a 8:21.7/mi. and my legs felt great compared to yesterday.
It was cool but sunny. It was a very positive day.
Bridget is doing great. It's nice having a dog you can pal around with.
139 miles for the month. January was 213, February 176 and March 219. Any month I run a marathon the mileage is reduced because of the easy week before and after. The week after is always tough to get the mileage back up. Next week I'll feel better.

Tuesday in the Rain

I ran 7.1 miles today in 1:01:40 (6.9 mph) at 8:41.1/mi. My legs are still dead from the race. My left ankle hurt from the 4-5 mile mark. I slowed down. It rained the whole run but it was nice. I haven't been able to run that far for over a week. I feel so alive running.
I filled in one application today and 1/2 of another.
It sucks not having a job. I was always interested in doing a good job; the best I could and being on time every day.
2 days of rain doesn't help your disposition with the dog wanting to go out but not wanting to get wet.
I should have a picture of the finish in Boston soon.

Back After Boston

Today was the first time I ran since Monday's marathon. My left quad hurt some at 1 mile but it seemed OK to run. I ran 4.3 miles in 34:58 (7.4 mph) at 8:07.9/mi. pace.
I'm not sure why I forgot but I didn't take TYLENOL before I ran Boston. It helped in NYC and I thought I had remembered everything. Oh well at least I remembered my shorts this time.
I was taking ADVIL but someone at the NY marathon said TYLENOL was better. It really helps my legs not to be so beat up.

Boston Marathon 2008

It was a fabulous day. The weather was perfect.
I had some problems getting to the start. My daughter Julie was driving us and the car lost power. The EVC sensor light was on the dash. Tiffany and Sam and Katie also came to see me run. They spent most of the day at a VW dealer in Worcester and didn't see me run.
I rode the bus for about an hour with Carl from Pennsylvania who was running his 22 Boston. He started in 1974 and had also run 7 NY marathons.
I found a friend in the village, Karen Farnum. WE had worked together a while back. She was running more miles in a week Than me (about 56 on average) and I encouraged her to run some longer races. She qualified for Boston by running the Hartford Marathon in 2007. WE talked and went to the corrals together.
The race was OK. I felt good and started at 7.0 mph. I was at 7.2 mph by mile 5 and slowly went to 7.4 by mile 9. I stayed there until mile 21 when my GPS stopped reading.
The end result was a 3:40:00 8:24/mi. 9294 overall. I was a little disappointed because I really felt I could run between 3:32 and 3:36. But I did qualify for Boston next year. After I got sick 3 weeks ago I really lower my expectations and my goal became qualifying for Boston with my Boston time.
I guess I'm getting old. I enjoyed the race and although I think I could have run faster I was happy to run well and enjoy the people and the fans.
There really is no race I would rather run than Boston.

4 Days to Go

I didn't run today. I was tired. Maybe the race is heavy on my mind but my legs didn't recover from yesterday so I didn't run today.
Tuesday I ran 4 miles in 34:38 (6.9 mph) at 8:39.5/mi. Yesterday I ran 10.2 miles in 1:24:40 (7.2 mph) in 8:18.0/mi.
A lot of things are going through my mind. I'm concerned that if I don't qualify for next year with this race I may not qualify. I have run all my marathons with the help of Shannon Kuzel my massage therapist and I may not be able to keep seeing her if I don't get a job which pays enough. I'll miss seeing her. She is such a great friend. She helped me reach my full potential in running at 54. But even more I found a friend as an adult which is difficult to do. My last really good friend I made as an adult died suddenly of a heart attack.
Running marathons after 50 seems to be a white collar thing. I may be wrong but if you don't have a desk job it takes a lot out of your legs to try and train all the miles to put in a good effort in the marathon. I'm afraid with the economy the way it is that I may not get the kind of job I need to keep running.
I may not be a great marathoner but I really enjoy the challenge of running 26.2 miles.
I''l give my all on Monday. I can run between 3:25 and 3:45. Any of those times will qualify me for next year. Last year was the only time I thought of stopping in a marathon. It was very tough. I don't know why but it made me appreciate even more Chicago and New York and the 3:18 I ran in Vermont.
Ruth said she may go and watch on Monday. I hope I feel good if she sees me. You just never know how you are going to feel during the marathon.

One Week Til Boston

It's finally almost here. Even though last year was a very tough marathon for me I love running Boston.
Saturday I ran 10.6 miles in 1:22:20 (7.7 mph) at 7:46.0/mi. The temperature was between 54 degrees F and 64 degrees F. I felt good right on the edge of some pain and I ran at that speed the entire way. I was coughing some after but not too bad.
Sunday I was tired. I ran 7.1 miles in 1:00:50 (7.0 mph) at 8:34.1/mi. 51 degrees F when I finished.
I'm looking back to see what I ran for the week before NY and I will try to mimic it this week. I'm going out in about 1/2 hour for a run.

Still Congested

Well yesterday I felt pretty good; I went 10 miles in 1:22:35 (7.3 mph fastest for the week) at a 8:15.5/mi. pace. I'm still coughing a lot at the end for 2-3 minutes.
Today my legs felt tired. I was able to turn it on in the last 11/2 miles. I ran 7.1 miles in 1:00:05 (7.1 mph) at 8:27.7/mi. pace. Tomorrow I'll take off and get a massage. I hope to run about 10 on Saturday and Sunday.
The long term forecast is for high 50's and sunny on Patriot's Day.

Struggling

It's good to be back running but I am struggling this week. I don't feel like my old self. Today I ran 11.1 miles in 1:33:00 (7.1 mph) at a 8:22.7/mi. Every step seems to be a struggle. I didn't cough as much until I stopped running. Yesterday I fell asleep for 2 hours after running. That time off last week is killing my time right now.
One nice thing about being unemployed is I got to see the ring ceremony at Fenway today. That was very cool.

Coughing Up a Lung

Well after Tuesday I couldn't run the rest of the week. I'm not sure how this will effect my run in Boston I hope it has no effect. I was congested and TIRED all week. I've read where it isn't good to run if the "cold" is in your chest and with further advice from Shannon K I took the week off. I did start to feel Ok on Saturday but I was still coughing so I waited until Sunday to try and get my legs back.
Sunday afternoon I ran 6.1 miles in 54:02 (6.8 mph) at a 8:51.5/mi. pace. I ran slow and I felt slow after 4 days off. It was really windy at times during the run.
Today I ran from 1:50 until almost 3:00. 8.1 miles in 1:07:20 (7.2 mph) at 8:18.8/mi. pace. I felt better but I nearly coughed up a lung after the run.

Ups and Downs of an Unemployed Runner

I haven't written since last Wednesday. My job hunting is frustrating. I think I have a good lead and then something falls through.
On Thursday I ran 6.1 miles in 48:38 (7.4 mph) at a 7:58.4/mi. pace. I felt good and I have picked up the pace this week which feels good. Off on Friday so I can run long on Saturday.
Saturday I ran 20.4 miles in 2:49:03 (7.2 mph) at 8:17.2/mi. pace. I felt good took 4 drinks and 2 packs of Gu. This was a little faster than 2 weeks ago, so I'm heading in the right direction for Boston. Three weeks to go. Over 60 miles for the week.
I took Sunday off and cleaned. I breathed in so much dust that I had a hard time breathing on Monday. I had to take Monday off too. I was exhausted and just studied for my CDL permit most of the day.
Today I'm feeling much better. I'll run this morning.
I ran from 10:15 to 10:45 this morning, 10.1 miles in 1:25 (7.0 mph) at 8:25.0/mi. pace.
My left ankle was stiff for 1.20 miles and my legs felt a little tired after 7.5 miles but overall it was a good run. I had a meeting at unemployment at 1:00 which gave a few ideas to pursue. I have an application to fill in this afternoon so I'll end for now.

A Day Like No Other

So after running last evening I thought I wouldn't be as fresh today. I got up to see the Red Sox early and they lost 5-1 to Oakland.
I went out at 10:00 to run and I felt a little stressed. I thought I was running slow but when I checked at 3+ miles I was running at 7.8 mph. WOW I have run so fast so quick ion a run in a while. At 4.66 miles I was at 7.9 mph. I had a hill with a bad road surface and some head winds and feel to 7.7 mph but I felt strong. I kept pushing and in the end ran 10.5 miles in 1:18:10 (7.9 mph) at 7:26.7/mi. pace. I wore the 2120's.
I haven't run like this since March of 2006. My legs feel fine right now and with 5 days left to the month I am over 190 miles already for March.
A lot of meat at supper (4:00) on Monday, a lot of Carbs (breakfast, lunch, ww pasta with some chicken for supper) yesterday seemed to help. I ate only a power bar this morning before going for the run as usual. I like to feel light when I run.

The Sox Win Their First Game

Go Red Sox!!!
I got up earlier than usual to see the game from Japan. One nice thing about being unemployed right now. I finished another book I was reading too.
I was about to go for a run when my wife said several relatives were going to lunch. I went and had a bigger lunch than normal. I put off running until 5:00 PM. I went 7.2 miles in 59:07 (7.3 mph) at a 8:12.6/mi. pace. I wore my Brooks GTS 7 shoes. I always feel like my step is lighter with these shoes. My legs feel back to normal but I felt a little full for the first 2 miles. I usually try to feel somewhat empty for a run no matter how far I go. I'll take things like apple juice/water (50:50) or Gu to boost my energy.

Spring is Here

After 2 days off I ran on Holy Thursday 10.3 miles in 1:24:50 (7.2 mph) at 8:14.2/mi. My left ankle and leg still are bothering me.
I took Good Friday off and had a massage. I talked to Shannon K my massage therapist about how I was feeling. She made some suggestions and did a great job on my legs.
Saturday I was able to run 11.8 miles in 1:34:50 (7.4 mph) in 8:02.2/mi. I felt good all day.
Easter Sunday I didn't have a lot of time so I decided to do a fast 4. I ran 4.3 miles in 32:55 (7.8 mph) at a 7:39.3/mi. pace.
I sat around a lot during the day and traveled by car for over 31/2 hours so my legs and feet were a little stiff but today I feel OK. My wife and daughters and 2 of my grandkids went to Waterford to visit my brother and his wife and daughter. We had a nice time catching up and then we got to see Shannon's new condo. Very nice!!! It's near the water with a great view of the shore.
Back home we were able to visit with many relatives including my wife Annemarie's sister from MD and brother from DE.
I was just thinking this may be the most miles I have run in a month in several years. It may be why my ankles hurt. But I feel in great shape.
Today I ran 12.1 miles in 1:34:55 (7.4 mph) at 7:50.7/mi. pace. I worn my asics 2120's RP.

Off for Two Days

Well, all the miles last week did my legs in. After Monday my left foot hurt. I decided yesterday that since I usually take a week off after a marathon that I needed to take at least 2 days off after the 23.6 miles on Saturday.  I thought I would be OK but my legs are telling me DON'T RUN.

Tomorrow, tomorrow...

Back At It

I took yesterday off. My legs felt OK but I have been stupid in the past and run too soon after a long run.
I did consider running 10 miles today but my legs were tired when I started out so I just ran with no mileage goal in mind. I ran 7.8 miles in 1:07:10 6.9 mph in 8:36.7/mi. It was a little windy at times but it was bright and sunny. A little cooler than it has been winter is becoming just a memory as Spring begins later this week.
My left leg is not a 100% yet from the Saturday run but hopefully it will be by Thursday. I'm going to ice it now and use heat later after I use the wall to stretch things out.
Marathonguide.com had a post today on a New Feature: Best/Biggest Boston Marathon Qualifying Races. Check it out.

Thoughts for the Week

Wednesday was my oldest grandson's birthday. Sam was 9. We had 2 party's for him one on Sunday with some of his friends and one on Tuesday. When my wife's Mom was going home from the party she fell. My wife and her oldest brother went with her to the hospital. They came home at 3 AM. The prognosis: Fractured left shoulder in 2 places.
I had to stay over her house on Thursday night so I didn't get much sleep. Friday my youngest daughter, Tiffany, went to the Junior Prom. I was in a daze on Friday. My plans to run over 20 miles on Saturday seemed to be in jeopardy. Tiffany looked beautiful. I was in the process of changing my plans for running this weekend. But my wife said I did not have to stay over Mom's house Friday night.
Friday's I usually get a massage. I saw Shannon at noon. I felt better but very tired.
Friday night I had to watch 2 of my grandkids, Sam and Katie, until one of my daughters came home. I feel asleep about 10:30. At 2:15 I had to get up when Tiffany came home. She had a great time.
At 6:15 Julie, my oldest daughter (Sam and Katie's Mom) came over. She was taking a test to be qualified to teach in CT. I got up briefly.
I laid in bed until about 10 trying to rest my legs as much as possible.
I went out at 10:45 for my run. My left in-step hurt on and off for much of the run. But I was able to go 23.6 miles in 3:20:00 at 7.1 mph. A little slower than I wanted but I felt strong.
After 3 straight days of 10+ miles and over 20 miles after one day of "rest" I felt good about my progress this week. 5 weeks til Boston!!! Over 61 miles for the week.

Windy March

I've had good runs the last 6 days. The following is a summary since the 7th:
8th 12.1 miles 1:38:00 8:06.0/mi.
9th 7.0 miles 59:10 8:26.4/mi.
10th Off; legs have been tired for 2 days
11th 10.2 miles 1:21:00 7:56.5/mi.
12th 10.0 miles 1:23:10 8:19:00/mi.
13th 10.3 miles 1:21:55 7:57.2/mi.

Sunday, Wednesday and today a lot of wind. I've gone over a 100 miles for the month already and my legs feel OK. REST is so important and I have been able to rest my legs most of the month. I have already run double digits for 7 days this month. I haven't had any more sleep (about 6-6.5 hours) but I have been able to fall back to sleep and have kept my feet elevated, with alternating cold/heat on various parts of my legs/ankles/feet to reduce the pain.
Off tomorrow and hopefully 22 on Saturday. 5 weeks til Boston.

Day Off Reflections

I took the day off from running to get a massage and to rest.
A few thoughts on running this week.
People shouldn't drive and talk on their cell phones. Twice this week cars came very close to hitting me and each time the person was on the phone.
If I have an obstacle (e.g. drain, puddle, snow drift) a vehicle matches my speed and we meet at the obstacle.
Runners are treated as a target; people throw things and toot or yell right when they are next to you running.

WOW!!!

I came back from filling out forms at FedEx. I hope I get the job. It seems like a great place to work. I felt so good that I ran 10.3 miles in 1:18:40 (7.8mph) at a 7:38.3/mi. pace. This is the fastest that I have run at that distance in about 18 months.
I took 2 drinks and I don't stop to drink. I use to take Gu every 6-7 miles but since I am unemployed I only take it when I run over 14 miles.
The Brooks GTS 7 shoes are AMAZING!!! The weather was beautiful.
I have run 48 miles so far this week.

Winters End?

Since February 27th I have run the following:
28th 6.1 miles 8:19.5/mi.
29th 4.2 miles 7:51.0/mi.
1st 7.1 miles 8:18.6/mi.
2nd 14.3 miles 8:00.4/mi.
3rd 6.1 miles 8:28.9/mi.
4th 10.2 miles 8:26.9/mi.
5th 7.1 miles 8:22.4/mi.

I have alternated between new Asics 2120's and the Brooks GTS 7's I in an earlier post. The weather has been ideal the last few days 45-55 degrees with only occasional wind. I have been getting more rest since I don't have a job, which has helped my running. My legs feel fresher each day. I have been using a castor oil wrap on my ankles and cold gel packs on my knees and legs which also have helped a lot.

It Must Be Wednesday

7.1 miles in 59:32 today. Since I'm unemployed I found the best times to run are 10-11:30 and 1-2:30. Drivers are so polite; they move over so I don't have to run through the snow and ice. I saw friends from my former job this morning which was nice; one friend who was a runner but had stopped now runs at least 20 miles a week. Nice. I worn new shoes today. Brooks GTS 7. I have never run in a Brooks shoe but I found them to be an excellent light weight and supportive shoe (nice around corners). Since I have worn orthotics I feel like I have a moderate pronation and this shoe was recommended. On the first run they were great.
I'm not sure why but I don't seem to get more than 250 miles from a shoe before I need a replacement.
My bunion is bothering me a lot this week. I'm not sure if all the outdoor running on the road works for me. I have used a bike on rollers in the past but I JUST WANT TO RUN!!! I have taken more days off this month than I want to to help my feet.

I wish someone who had even more experience than me would read this blog.

Snow, snow go away...

Last week was tough. I took 4 days off because of the snow. I am now running in Adidas Adistar 4, Adidas SuperNova, and Asics 2120s. So far 220-230 miles per pair. Only 26.4 miles last week after 53.6 miles the week before.
Yesterday I ran 13.1 miles in 1:47:00 (7.3 mph/8:10.1/mi.) Today 10.1 miles in 1:22:00 (7.3 mph/8:07.1/mi.) I'm feeling good with just under 2 months before Boston.
I have been getting only one massage per week now with one or two days off per week.
It may snow again tomorrow...oh joy!!!

It's Been a Long Time Coming...

I haven't written for a while. I've been busy getting laid-off from work and looking for a new job. One of my old colleagues said I need a job not a career. But life is exciting and the prospect of doing something new or the same work in a new setting does give me chills somewhat like I get when I run a marathon.
2007 came and went. 4 marathons: Miami, Boston, Chicago, and New York. WOW!!! I had a great time. I ran Chicago with my son. I will never forget that. Just the 2 of us in Chicago. It was great. I could have stayed forever. The people and the experience was amazing.
1925 plus miles for 2007.
January of 2008 I ran over 213 miles. Nine times over 9 miles.
February 16th I ran 20.6 miles in 2:48:15 for a 7.3mph pace in 8:10/mi. Connecticut is tough in February: snow tomorrow may limit my running for a couple of days. No more treadmills. The Gym is gone.
So far the lay off has not effected my running. I hope I can always say this. At 56 my health and my running is very important to me.