The Usual

That's what I did this morning.  Went well and felt good.

Sorry you were up all night!  Hope you got some good sleep after that.

I suppose I could set my TM to simulate hills but I've never done it.  Glad somebody likes to run them!  I should work on that though so I could do better on Washington Street next time!

Long night ahead!

I'm working tonight starting at 9:30 pm! We are doing a push to production and I just need to verify it. I'll just do my Monday 8 hours of work (I'll do 6, actually) and then go to bed. But I'm really starting to wind down now. It's going to be tough when I'm usually sound asleep by 9:30! Good run today 4.5 miles. I did the Kensington route with a couple trips up Adams Avenue to make it longer. Nice out. Cool. Tomorrow will be a day off for sure. I will probably dedicate myself to my video game!

Intervals

I did something new today. Or something I haven't done for a long time, I should probably say. I used to run that short hill by my office but my hill running has really morphed to strictly Texas. I've been reading a bit about interval training, so I thought a shorter steep hill would be good. I went down Meade to the Florida cross street. That's a pretty substantial hill. My running beat app is pretty awesome and actually has a timer mode. So I set it for 30 minutes and knew I was done when the beeping stopped! There was some super shady guy loitering by the cars and asking people for money, so I had to keep a close and paranoid eye on him! I lifted weights before I went.

Good run!

I didn't get wet! The storm has passed, although it was a cloudy day. Good run. So slow though. Whateves, right? It was nice and cool so really enjoyable. And that's all I did. Well, I had a healthy eating day, too!

What a mess!

Not me! For once!! Today I went over to Texas to run hills. And that's what is a mess! That entire hill apparently really wanted to fall down and slip into the road. Rocks, dirt, and debris on the sidewalk and into the road. No trees down, though. It was a good hill session because the newest episode of Serial was out today. I anxiously await Thursdays so I can listen to the recent podcast. It's so good. Also, I lifted weights before I ran. It's been awhile!

A wet run

Well, I did something I just never do. I ran in the rain. Yeah, who am I? But I didn't run yesterday, I was going absolutely stir crazy here, and the gym would have been a madhouse. So I just did it. Wore my Whistlestop zip jacket! And it worked great! Not a fast run because I was exercising extreme caution. See what I did there? So that's that!

Did It Again

Yes I did.  My usual.  Had a sneezing fit this morning when I first got up but other than that I'm feeling pretty good.

Stay dry!

Back At It

Ok, I did a full 2 mile run on the TM this morning and all 50 pushups and 50 situps!  So I am on the upswing for sure.  It never did become a full blown cold like I have sometimes had in the past so I'm glad for that but it did knock me down for a few days.  Feeling much better this morning.

Update!

This is such a quick update because I have company! But I did run today, felt good after the weekend! And I did run on Friday before we left. I really needed a couple days off. Stiff and sore. feeling better!

Back At It - Sort Of

I did get on the TM this morning and did run - for 1 mile.  Chest felt very tight and I just had to quit.  Very rare for me to quit once I start but I just couldn't get a decent breath.  Only did half my pushups and situps, too.  On the other hand, this is progress so I am on the mend I think.

Happy Thanksgiving!

In honor of Thanksgiving (and, actually, the giant dinner I knew I'd be eating!) I headed over to Texas and ran that 3 times. It's getting hot, so it wasn't perfect conditions. But it sure wasn't 6 below! Hope you had a fantastic day!

I Chickened Out!

I was signed up to run a Thanksgiving Day 5K this morning but when I got up at 7 am it was -6 out there so I thought better of it.  I did my usual on the TM and exercise mat in my nice warm basement instead.

Whew!

This is my last act before bed, so it's going to be short! I lifted weights today and I ran. So slow. Dang. But such is life. Thanks it! It's Thanksgiving in your neck of the woods so Happy Thanksgiving!

Hills!

Wow. I actually didn't remember what I did today. Took me a couple of minutes to recall! But I do recall that I went over to Texas and ran it 3 times. Challenging. I have go to do it more so it's not so challenging! Then I came back and did some abs and calves. That's it! I also had a crazy awesome massage.

Back At It

I got back on the TM this morning and did my exercises, too.  Then I got on the scale and saw that over one day and night of eating out I had gained back the 2 lbs I had lost since coming home from Virginia.  What is up with that?  So discouraging.

I'm not so sure about Thursday's 5K now.  They're predicting only +4 for Thursday morning!!!!  Ouch.

Good Run

Good but so slow. Man. Bart says we are getting more Santa Ana's headed our way. Which didn't surprise me because I had a dry dry run. Seems like we are having them so much more than we used to. I'm going to move. I'm working on a two year plan. Maybe I can beat climate change so I'm out of here before we are 100% Santa Ana's 100% of the time. I'm super crabby about it. It's like the opposite end of the miserable you're getting ready to endure! Oh, also, I lifted weights. I just got so busy complaining that I forgot to say!

Run

I did a 3 mile run today. I'm so exhausted, I'm surprised I accomplished anything! I talked to Mike today about how tired I am. Because I had a theory. Two-ish months ago I switched from whey protein powder to soy. And, at first, it was awesome. I felt way more energetic and mentally sharp. But over the past month, that's really changed. I'm really tired all the time and have pretty much no energy to do anything after work. And the soy protein powder has really been the only change in my diet. Although I've made some other pretty substantial changes in the months prior. Anyway! He told me he didn't think it was the soy protein powder and we started talking about how I'm lifting weights. He thinks it might be that. And it is true that I've gotten a bit more serious and consistent with it lately. In addition, I've been doing weights before running. Food wise, I've also been being very careful about snacking. I used to snack a lot and now I'm really trying to just eat meals. And it's been difficult because I am getting really hungry usually 2 hours after I eat. Then I force myself to not eat until 3 or 4 hours have passed between my previous eating. I aim for 4 but sometimes it's 3. I wanted to get to 5 hours between. So he thinks that the increased weight training (especially squats) and the less frequent eating is actually the cause of my tiredness. My plan for now is going to be: 1. Keep on with the soy 2. Aim to eat a carb/protein every 3 hours 3. Increase my calories by a small amount As you know, I have not been losing weight but my clothes are finally fitting again. So I don't really want to eat more. But, on the other hand, it's not worth it if I'm so darn tired all the time! If this doesn't help, then I will switch back to whey.

Here, too.

More of the same, that is. Here. Too. Also. I am feeling a lot better today, not 100% but way better. So I lifted weights and I went over to Texas and I kicked it's....well, I'll let you fill that in yourself! By the way, I weighed myself yesterday and it's exactly the same. BLAH.

More of the same

Did the usual again this morning so nothing new to report there.

Did I tell you that I signed up for the Turkey Day Dash and Dine 5K over in Chisago City?  It's supposed to be cold though so I hope it's not too bad.  That was only the 2nd public run I ever did and it was back in 2010 (first was that Susan Komen run we did in SD in early Nov. of '10) and I do remember that it was only +5 that day.  It's no supposed to be that cold this year and I hope not!

More running!

Yep, more running today! Lots of people were out when I hit the road this morning, so that was fun. And things are getting REAL in my audio book, let me tell you! So it was fun. Did abs and calves before I left. What else? Went to the Farmer's Market tonight and I will be having dinner of green drink and meatballs. I can't wait! I might just eat now!

Tired, Tired

I did not sleep well last night either.  No clue why except that I kept dreaming about trying to figure out what had more calories...hamburgers on the grill or hamburgers on the stove top. No kidding, every time I woke up I was thinking about that.  So, guess what I need!  Not today though.

I went to the Ripped class and did all right.  I almost skipped it because I was so tired but was glad I went and mostly I kept up with the girls.  I just need to practice some of the "moves" and I would do a lot better.

More running!

Yep, ran again! 3 miles. Really slow and felt slow. You know, the past few nights I've not been getting solid sleep. Lots of waking up. I fall back asleep again but maybe that's why I just feel a little blah. I also lifted weights today before I ran. And a good healthy eating day today. I don't have any troublemakers bringing me hot milk cake!

More of the Same

Yep, I did it again today.  Ran on the TM and did my exercises.  Planning to go to the Ripped class tomorrow morning at Snap.  Will try my best to keep up with those girls.

Run / 3 Miles

I'm back! I ended up taking both Sunday and Monday off from running. Just because! But I did run today, three miles. It's so nice now that it's all chilly out! I mean....55. But for me that is chilly! Started out by doing some calves work and crunches.

Did It Again

I think I am completely over my mild concussion ezxcept for the scap on the top of my head.  No headache at all yesterday and none today.  So, I did my TM run and exercises again and it went fine.  I did not go to the PiYo class this morning though.  But I think I will go back to the Ripped class on Thursday.

Weight is down 8/10's of a pound this morning!  No explanation and probably won't last because that awful sister of your's just stopped over with 4 pieces of hot milk cake she expects us to eat.

Back on Track

No headache this morning at all so I got on the TM and ran - yes ran - for 2 miles.  Not that far but far enough for today.  Then I did my 50 pushups and 50 situps.  It all seemed like work but I felt very good once I was done.  So, I think I'm over this episode.  I can hardly wait for the next thing to come along!

So many updates!

I really have slacked with posting! Blogger on my phone is really irritating. I often lose what I've typed. But I tend to shut down my computer and not fire it up again until Monday. Decided to break that trend there! Friday and Saturday I ran. Friday was 3 miles and Saturday I ran 5 miles. Slow miles. Yesterday (Saturday) I lost power! An hour for sure, but possibly 2. After an hour of not being able to drink coffee I decided I might as well go for a run. So I did and power was back when I returned. Which....whew! That's a glad thing. I'm tired today so I think I'll take a day off.

Good Morning and Good Walk

This morning I decided I just had to do something so I went for a brisk 20 walk on the TM.  Felt good and went well so tomorrow I will start running again.  Slight headache this morning but much, much improved over the last couple of days.  Then I did my pushups and situps.  Feels good to have done something.

I did it!

And it was in doubt! I had a really busy workday, from start to end. And several meetings that were perfectly scheduled to keep me from getting in a run! Finally I decided I'd just work though lunch and leave early to run. I did lift weights today and then I headed over to Texas and ran that 3 times. And I had cheerleader for my last trip up, so that's helpful! It was fun. Cool again now, so it is very very delightful around here.

Yesterday and Today

I did have to go out and shovel again yesterday morning.  Not so much but we did get another inch or two overnight.  So that was 3 "shoveling exercises" in about 18 hours.

Then I went to Snap and took part in the PiYo class at 9 am.  Some Pilates and some Yogo or so they tell me.  I didn't like it so well because I have learned that my sense of balance is not the best.  Not as strenuous as the Ripped class on Thursdays but I did work into a sweat.  I felt so uncoordinated though next to those women who've been doing this forever.  Don't know if I'll go back to that or not.  Still haven't decided about the Ripped class tomorrow either.  If I go, I will not do the one "backwards jumping jack" (don't know what else to call it) that I think is the one that hurt my calves last week.

This morning I ran on the TM here at home and did my pushups and situps.

Weight is still bad.  Thought I had lost a pound the other day but I found it again this morning.  Apparently right where I left it.  :)

Run and Weights

More of the same ol same ol! I did the weights first today and then my run after. I need to remember to put a new battery in my scale because I'm pretty sure I'm losing some pounds! No run tomorrow. I have to get up at 1 am to test our production push, so I'll have a slack day tomorrow!

Good run!

Good - and early, actually! I was out around 6:30 this morning and it was very nice and cool. There were a couple of other runners out there, too. Time was....nothing to speak of, shall we say. But it was fun. So that's counting as a success to me!

Good Run

Finally, a bit cooler here today. By 10 degrees and we had higher humidity so it was much nicer all the way around. Today I lifted weights before I ran. I was reading that if you do both cardio and weights in the same session, it's better to do weights first so you are primed for fat burning when you run. I read that in one of my Radiant Recovery books and then I looked it up online and, yep, confirmed! So I did that. I ran over to Texas, did that hill once, and then I ran home. So I think that's 4.19 miles. Pretty good. Tired tonight!

Ran Today

I actually did run on the TM and my legs were ok.  Felt like work which is good I guess but I got it done.  Also my exercises.

Tomorrow's exercise might be shoveling snow!

Back in the game!

In case you're wondering where the heck I've been, I think I poisoned myself! I was so sick the other day, I just cannot even tell you how sick. Flu feelings x10. Then I left my house for a couple of hours and felt better. And I realized it must be my humidifier that I was using for the first time in months. Sounds questionable, even to me! But I turned it off and aired the place out and was fine. Well, better. Today is the first day I've felt actually fine. I ran today, 3 miles. Honestly, it sucked. I'm pretty sick and bitter of San Diego at this point. I'm over the 90 degrees. I'm over the 10% (or less) humidity. It sucks. And it makes running miserable. So I'm a little crank about it!

Still Walking

My calves are still sore here this morning so it was another long walk on the TM.  I did run for about 5 minutes and hope to get back to normal by tomorrow.  Not sure if I'll go back for more "Ripped" classwork next Thursday or not!  Those girls hurt me!

We're off to Duluth for the day.

Oh, my!

My legs are so stiff and sore this morning!!  Especially my calves.  Wow.  Has to be from some of those exercises I did yesterday at the Ripped class.  So, I walked briskly (but didn't run) for 25 minutes on the TM this morning and then did my pushups and situps.  Plan to run tomorrow though.  I'm surprised how sore I am.  Used different muscles than you do running apparently.

On the up side, I'm down a whole pound today from Wednesday when I weighed.

Holy Moley!

Is that how you spell that?  Anyway, I went to Snap this morning to observe the beginner's Ripped class from afar.  However, they talked me into joining them.  5 women (3 of whom I know), me, and the instructor, Nicole.  Wow!  That was a workout.  One hour.  Constant movement.  I felt so uncoordinated!  I will need to work at this.  Much more of a workout that walking for 10 minutes and lifting a few weights.  Now they want me to come on Tuesdays for the PiYo class - apparently a combo of pilates and yoga.  We'll see if I recover from today's class.

Yesterday and Today

I guess I forgot to come on here yesterday but I did go down to Snap Fitness,  Walked for 10 minutes on their TM and then did the weight machines.  I just don't think I'm doing enough work while I'm there though and so it's not doing anything for me.  Tomorrow I'm going to go around 9 am and observe their beginner's Ripped class and see what that's about.  They only do the beginner's version once a week on Thursday morning.  The advanced versions meet twice a week but at 6 am!!  Don't see myself doing that.  Anyway, I want to check it out.

This morning I ran on my TM here and did the pushups and situps.  I work a lot harder when I'm here at home.

But I still can't seem to lose an ounce.

Dry Run!

It's so much cooler but, all the same, I left it too late to run. Because it was so dry by the time I went. I dislike running in that. Accomplished, though, and that's what counts. So they say!! Also did some situps.

Run and Weights

I'm back from a weekend of slack! Not planned. But I just wasn't into it. So I didn't make myself do it. Good run today. It's so much cooler out right now, I love it. Anyway, good run. Then I lifted weights when I got home. More running tomorrow! I'm so exhausted today. Is it the time change? I still got 8 hours of sleep, so who knows! Maybe I'm getting old!

Repeat Performance

But it seemed like work today and I'm sure that's because I did have a good night's sleep.  Couldn't go to sleep for the longest time, up 3 times, and then the phone rang at 6 am to see if Mom wanted to work today at the elementary school.  She said "yes" so then we were both up.  Anyway, I did it and I'm glad I did.

Good Morning

Usually Sunday is my absolute day off but I need to get back on track here so I did another 2 on the TM this morning and my full complement of 50 pushups and 50 situps.  Went well.  Left leg feels fine so far.  Sure hope it stays that way.  TM pace was 10.25 which is my usual on the machine.  I sure like my new Aetrex shoes although I am wearing the orthotics in them.  I'm thinking about registering for 5K over in Lindstrom on Thanksgiving morning.  Did it 4 years ago but then we have been in Marion every year since.  Have to see how it goes here the next few days.

I'm Back!!!

I actually got up and ran 2 miles on the TM this morning and did half of my normal pushups and situps.  It's a start!!  Feels good to get back at it after 3 weeks off.  Terrible to take that much time off, though.  Feels like I'm starting from scratch but I know it will get better each day.  I plan to stick to 2 miles for a few days until I get my legs back and then move to 3.  Only 21 degrees out there this morning so outside running might be done for me for the season.

Good run / 3 miles

It's coolish! For us! Almost looks like it might rain - cloudy and deliciously dreary. Fingers crossed for rain! Not tonight, of course. Tomorrow. Good run today. 3 miles. Lots of other people out running, so that was fun. And then I lifted weights when I got home. Going over to Bart's tonight for scary-movie-fest!

Good run! 3 miles

I had a good run today - 3 miles. I'll be ready for a day off here soon. Maybe I'll do the gym tomorrow and spend some time on the elliptical. Still cardio but low impact. That's all I've got for today!

Good run!

Today was a 3 mile day and it was a good run. Needed because I sure was work cranky by the time I got around to it! 11 minute miles, so that's OK. It was fun to be out there. I was pretty alone although I went around 10:30. Which is fine. My feet are feeling better. I do feel like I have a bruise on the bottom of my left heel, which is really making me sad. But it's feeling a tiny bit better every day. Or maybe I'm just telling myself that!

Texas x3

I did it! This morning I went over to Texas and I ran it 3 times. It was challenging. In fact, I thought I would be done after time 2. But I had to be honest with myself that my ability to do it is totally different from whether I actually want to do it. So I did the third round. I did bring my watch today so I can start working on my pace. It was 14.10 per mile. And I also used my pace app and that was really hard. Very challenging to stay on pace. I'll keep working on it though.

Updates!

I've sure been behind the times here! The weekend went so quickly and just now is the first that I've turned on my computer. So, let's see, what do I have to report? I did run on Thursday and I also lifted weights here at the house. Friday I didn't run. Day off! And then, yesterday, I ran 3 miles. Right before I had to leave for lunch. Waited till the last moment I had to get it done! Today I ran just over 4 miles. I did the Texas route, running up Texas once. I'll do Texas at least once this coming week. Also, I lifted weights. You know how I've been complaining about my weight? Well, I realized I was eating a lot of cheese! Things are getting better since I cut that out!

3 miles

Slower than yesterday! But it was also quite a bit hotter than it was yesterday. And I didn't get out until 12 or so. It was hard work today! Now that I'm using that beeping pace thing I realize how much my run changes when I get to a hill. Up or down. So I think I'll work on that a little bit. Which just means I'll turn that app on when I run hills and try to keep the pace! I'm getting ready to miss you!

Yesterday's Update

I meant to post this yesterday and then shut down my computer and forgot! I had a busy exercise day yesterday. I ran 3 miles and I lifted weights. I did weights here at home. Takes a lot less time. I might start doing that more, although I do like going to the gym. Maybe it's a phase and I'll go back to the gym soon. Good run, 11 minute miles. My feet hurt. Not so much when I'm running, but when I get up in the morning. It's not new, so I guess I do need the insoles in my shoes. Sigh!

Half Run

Well, today did not go as anticipated. I ran about 2 miles. Maybe a little more. Then I stopped. Just was done. I think it's because I had lunch pretty close to running and I just was full and otherwise not feeling it!

Update!

Hi, I'm a stranger! I forgot to update yesterday. I actually didn't plan on doing anything but, around 4, I thought "why not?" I had a date with Jessica, but that wasn't until 7. I had plenty of time. So I took the opportunity to do a quick run. 3 miles. It was really hard! I don't know, just not ready? Today I went over to Texas and ran that twice. Tomorrow I need to get to the gym and lift weights.

As much fan as that was....

....I'm glad it's this Saturday and not last Saturday!  We did have a great, great weekend though!

Walked on my own TM this morning and did my pushups and situps for the first time in more than a week!  I also did all the exercises they told me to do at PT and the walking seemed to go better so I will try to take the time for those things.

Gym Again

I walked on their TM for 10 minutes and then did the weight machines, etc.  I hate to mention it but my left thigh bothered me and still is a little.  Felt fine yesterday I thought.  Didn't stop me from washing all these windows anyway.  But as soon as I woke up this morning I could feel some discomfort there.  Might just be a chronic old man's problem.

I did stuff!

I'm back in the swing here. I went for a 3 mile run today and I lifted weights. Did the weights at home, not the gym. I'm tired. It really wore me out! For today, that's all I've got!

Gym Day

I did go to the gym this morning.  Walked for 10 minutes on the TM and then did my weight machines, etc.  Also I watched a young guy lift an unbelievable amount of weights.  Does that count for anything?  He was almost an incredible hulk.  Walking bothered my left thigh a little but not much.  I'm still not going to run on it for a while though.

Whistlestop 2014

We did it!!!  So much fun to have you here to run this with us and the whole weekend was just great.  Couldn't have been better.  I was pleased with my time of 2.39 given the way my left leg thigh and groin have been bothering me for weeks and weeks.

Now, however, I am going to take some time off and rest this left leg and see what happens.  I will probably still spend some time at Snap Fitness with the weights, etc., but am going to lay off the running for at least a couple of weeks.

I am so glad you were here to do this!

Gandy Dancer!

Well, how lucky am I that I could run on the Gandy Dancer today? Very lucky! Sure took a lot of talking myself into it, though. It was so windy and so cold (it was really cold!). But I'm so glad I did do it. Good run - 4 miles. 2 in and back. North, as you suggested. And you were absolutely right about the wind. Really wasn't hit with it in the protection of the trees. I was the only runner out there today. It was peaceful. Well, except for the zombie apocalypse I was listening to!

Did it today!

I'm excited! I got up at 4 this morning - no alarm. It's almost 8 and I'm typing this as I'm supposed to be listening diligently to my morning scrum meeting. I went for a three mile run at 6 am. It was absolutely beautiful out. The sky was a little cloudy and and the sunrise made the clouds purple and hot pink against the dark sky. It has been a long time since I've been out to run that early. It was really enjoyable. And it was cool out. Temp is going to be lower today but it seems like the humidity is lower, too. I also used my off-weighted weights this morning, so that's done. My book did not make me cry today. Thank goodness!

Good Run

And it's been a long time since I've been able to say that.  In fact, today's 3 miles on the TM was the best run I've had in weeks and weeks.  I did take Ibuprofen as soon as I got up so that helped I suppose but I've take that and Aleve before and still had discomfort in my left thigh and/or groin.  But not today.  I've got my fingers crossed!

Feeling it!

Wow, can I tell I took a week off. I ran today, 3 miles. And my legs are sore tonight! Crazy. Good run, it was not 90 out! At least not when I ran. It was still darn toasty. I considered going to the gym but just didn't want to do that 2 days in a row. I cried my entire run! My audiobook is so stressful and so sad right now! I had tears in my eyes just as I left my house and my nose was all cry runny. Can't wait to listen to it again!!

Short Sunday Run

I had the time, felt much better than I have the last two days, and decided I better do something.  However, it was only 33 degrees outside so I opted for a short 2 miler on the TM.  Leg was better after the first half mile as usual lately.  Also did my pushups and situps which I have been neglecting.  Like you yesterday, I'm glad I did something.  Now off to church.

I'm better!

I must be! I finally went to the gym - really, I had to force myself. I am "better" but not 100%. Anyway, I did finally go this afternoon and I ran 3 miles on the treadmill (pace = 6, incline = .5). And then I lifted weights. And as much as I didn't want to go, I'm really glad I did. Sometimes my gym has a little sign up that says: "I really regret that workout." ~Said no one, ever That's how I felt! By they way, my gym does short memberships. I asked and I think I forgot to tell you. 1 week is....I totally don't remember. I think 2 weeks is $30 and 4 weeks is $50. Just cause, you know, I'm sure you'll have nothing better to do than gym while you're here! I'm kidding. If I were staying at your place for a month, I'd totally look into the gym. As it stands, I'll be content with Gym Deloach next week! Unless I can go to the gym with you!

Well, I did something anyway

So today I ran. Last Friday was the last time I ran. So long ago. And it was....icky. I'm still not feeling great. Sick, yeah, but also really tired. Even worse? Check this out:

90 degrees with 9% humidity! BLAH! But it's done.

Sorry you are so sick!

What's up with that?  No good and no fun for sure.  We might both be in the "walking division" at the Whistelstop!  Is it head cold stuff?  I noticed that you hadn't been posting here but just thought you were busy.

I'm not going to the gym today.  We're going to Sam's Club instead!  The real reason though is because my leg is really sore today.  I had another of those dry needling treatments yesterday and I think he hurt me this time more than helped me.  I haven't taken any Aleve since Monday morning but I did take 2 now today.  I was planning my last 6 miler for tomorrow but now I don't know.  And it's turned cold out there!!  Only 42 or so this morning and very, very windy today.  It's supposed to warm up some by the end of next week and I sure hope so!

Hope you get better.

Slow Run

But I got it done.  Did the Fitnatics 3.  Have no clue how I think I will do 13 but they do have a walking division!  Unlike SD Half, Whistlestop lets people walk the whole 13 if they want to.  I won't do that, of course, but it certainly won't be my best half by a long shot.  Oh well.  The left leg felt very good all day yesterday but now this morning it feels bruised and sore again.  He told me to expect that so yesterday was a surprise.  Mom said I was limping pretty good when I started out.  But it did loosen up about 2 miles into the run and the last mile was more comfortable.  I don't know.  I'm going back for another session with him this morning at 11:00.

Dry Needling?

Ever heard of that?  I hadn't but, of course, I have googled it now.  PT guy (Joe) did that to me on Tuesday morning over in Lindstrom clinic.  Sort of like acupuncture.  And my thigh felt better almost right away.  That was yesterday morning.  Didn't take any Aleve today at all and my thigh and groin and the whole left side have been just fine today.  I'm anxious to get on the TM tomorrow morning and see how it feels then.  Can't quite believe it's "healed" but we'll see.  I'll let you now.

I did go to the gym this morning and did my weights, etc.

Indoor Run

Yep, only 38 here this morning so the weather has definitely changed.  When we left Appleton yesterday morning the car registered 70 and as we drove it kept dropping and dropping.  In 90 minutes it was down to 48!  It was back up to 54 by the time we got home but fall has arrived.

So, I opted for 3 miles on the TM this morning.  I have another PT session at 11 am so we'll see what that brings.  My left thigh and leg bothered me the whole run this morning but not seriously.  Just not normal.  Feels weak.  I took 2 Aleve about an hour before running but that seems to take 2 hours or more to really kick in and help me.  So I will have to get up at 5 am in Ashland just to get drugged up!  Well, we'll probably be getting up about then anyway I suppose.

Now, are you going to be interested in doing a little running on the Gandy Dancer next Tuesday or Wednesday?  Probably not Tuesday because we won't get home here until 11 pm or later.  If Wednesday, I don't want to do any more than 3 or 4 miles and then rest on Thursday and Friday.

Catching up

I think Thursday was my last update. I think! So long ago! I did run Friday. I ran 4.3-someting miles. It was good and fun with my audiobook and beeping! And then I actually used our hotel gym yesterday. It's been awhile since I've done that and I'm glad I went. Really nice gym, nicer machines than my gym here! So I lifted weights. We'll see what tomorrow brings. I have not been feeling well at all and now I'm sneezing and nose dripping like crazy. So maybe I'll run tomorrow or maybe I won't. Just not sure. It's my last chance for a long run, though, so I want to do it.

3 Miler

I ran the Fitnatics 5K route this morning before we left for Appleton.  Just a perfect morning out there.  Wish it could last through the Whistlestop but doubt very much that it will.

Hurray!

Finally, I am living the dream! I spent some time checking out if there was an app that would play a beat for me while I was also listening to an audiobook and, low and behold, the answer is YES! So I got out my old phone, downloaded that app and Audible and had an evenly paced book listening run! Really happy about this. I sure hope it helps my pace. I was faster today, but not by a lot. Maybe over time. I felt like I was running harder, though. Possibly that's because I ran when it was super hot out today. It's really warming up. I also went to the gym this afternoon. A lot for one day, but I think I'm going to aim for running 5 days a week, gym 3 days a week. Well, after the half, for sure. I don't know how much time I'll need off before my last long run. Which I think will be Monday. We are going to LA this weekend to the horror convention! Should be fun. And scary! I have Monday off so maybe I'll do a long run then. Sort of my plan, anyway. That's it! Wait, that's not it. I also ran 3 miles yesterday. But forgot to post. Now that's it. Really!

Gandy Dancer 6

I did the Gandy Dancer 6 miles from Centuria to the Info Center in SCF this morning.  Nice run but it wasn't as pretty as I had hoped.  Cloudy so no sunshine but also the trees were not as colorful as I was hoping they would be.  Maybe a few more days will turn them.  Anyway, I got it done.  Leg is somewhat better but hard to tell because I'm living on Aleve.  PT tomorrow morning so we'll see what she does for me.

Gym day!

Good gym day. Just the usual. I wonder if I am burning less calories since I've replaced 2 runs a week with the gym. Maybe that's why I'm so weight frustrated. I'm going to add another run into the mix each week and see if that changes anything for me.

Hills

Well, I sure could tell it's been some time since I've run hills, let me tell you. Very challenging. All three trips. But it's been so hot that there no way I could have run hills in the heat. Seems like we're having a bit of a weather uptick here again but only to 80 or so. Which I can deal with. Anyway, good hills. I could really feel it in my legs. And I'm listening to such a good audiobook - zombie apocalypse! I feel like I'm prepping for the premiere of The Walking Dead! Gym tomorrow.

Marion Run

We went down to Boyson Trail this morning here in Marion (where we ran our 5K in June) and I ran it and Mom and Amy walked it.  Gorgeous morning here.  Just perfect.  And that's such a nice trail.  I took 1 Aleve last night and 2 again this morning.  Some discomfort in my thigh muscle on the left side but better than it was yesterday morning for sure.  I have the results of my Doctor visit online here this morning.  My hip is normal so nothing wrong there at all.  Blood, urine, etc. all normal.  AlC test for diabetes blood sugar is "excellent" in my Docotor's word so I was glad to see that.  He has ordered physical therapy "to get you ready for your race" so I will call and schedule that as soon as I can after getting home tomorrow.  Nothing  but good news here this morning!

2 miles on the TM

We're in Marion today and this wouldn't normally be a running day for me at all but we were up early and had all kinds of time before going to the late church service.  I wanted to run outside but it's sooooo windy.  If it was at my back the whole time that would be fine but I knew it wouldn't be so I opted for the TM in the basement here.  My knee was bothering me much of yesterday in spite of the ibuprofen I took in the morning.  Today while running I felt it more in my groin.  The first half mile is always the hardest.  I suppose the muscle warms up after that or something so I'm just toughing it out for the first few minutes and then it gets better.  Not good but better.  I have 2 Aleve in me this morning.  I sure wonder how it will be on a long run though.  I'm not going to get anywhere near 10 miles before the big day.  Hoping to get 2 more 6 milers in though.

Yay me!

Yep, total self congratulatory title. But I ran 10 miles today! So I say again, yay me! I started with the Texas route and did Texas twice. Then I did the Kensington route and ran up Adams twice (you know how Adams dead ends at the end of the horseshoe? That's there I started on Adams). It's so much cooler, and that was a giant help. But, for once, I actually brought beverage and snack with me. Yes. I have been running longish distances in the heat with no liquid. Sometimes I do things that are, oh, foolish. And I know it while I'm doing it. I know it before I'm doing it. I know it before I just go ahead and do it again! I'm a hard learner! For my beverage I had mostly water with a little salt melted in. I couldn't taste the salt and, frankly, that was sad. I love salt. My snack was a whole wheat pita. I think both of these things helped a lot! I do feel better, post run, than I have on my other long runs this season. So that's that. The rest of my day is dedicated to video games! Yay me for that, too!

4 Miler on the Gandy Dancer

I went to Centuria and ran two miles north and back on the Gandy Dancer this morning.  Only one tree turning color so that needs another week or two.  Then it will be gorgeous.  Maybe you'll be here to see it!  Run was slow and did some walking at a couple points because of the discomfort in my left leg, etc., but it's getting better.  I think.  I hope.

It's not 100!

Or 102! Weather Underground tells me it's 82 right now, feels like 85. I could not be more thrilled! And, to celebrate this downturn in temperature, I ran outside today. First time since Saturday, I think. It was a good run, pretty good pace. I only saw 2 other runners out there today. Today I opened my shades for the first time in a week. It feels good - I've been living like a recluse! Oh, I forgot to tell you that I thought my iPod was dying! I did the cheap fix first and got new headphones. And, yep, that solved my problem! So $8.99 vs a new iPod, I'm pretty happy!

Gym Day and Doctor Day

I did go to the gym this morning and did my routine.

Then I went to see my Doctor this afternoon and he 99.9% sure that the problem in my left groin and knee is from a small tear or hernia in the groin muscle itself.  He found the spot for sure!  He did take x rays to rule out hip trouble but thinks physical therapy will take care of it.  The fact that it's better now than it was 2-3 weeks ago tells him it's not really a hip problem.  So, take ibuprofen or aleve as needed and keep running as tolerated.  Take ibuprofen in the morning before you run and again at bed time so you can sleep.  Sleeping has been a problem lately so I will start doing this.  Planning a 4 miler tomorrow.

102

It was 102 today! Hotter over in La Mesa. Boy, am I over this heat wave. Tomorrow is supposed to be "much cooler" at 92 degrees. But then I see 82 for Thursday, so I'll cross my fingers that is true. I'm pretty bitter because it's pouring rain 2 miles away from me but not a drop here. I love rain! It's too hot for outside exercise, so today was a gym day. I wasn't the only person who thought that - it was pretty busy there! I ran for 10 minutes and then lifted weights. I did see several people running outside today and I wanted to stop and shake some sense into them! But that would have required me to get out of my air conditioned car. So I'll just have to hope they made it ok!

Slow 4 Miles

It wasn't pretty but I ran around the 4 mile block this morning.  Didn't go until almost 10 am though and that's late for me.  Long story.  Anyway, left thigh continues to bother me.  I've made a Doc appointment for Thursday afternoon to see what he thinks.  He'll order PT no doubt but I want to know if there's something structurally wrong in my spine or hips or whatever.  Mom thinks maybe I'm getting some arthritis which is also a possibility.  I've had pain and stiffness in my left groin and/or hip most of the summer so something is not right somewhere.  I'm planning for a 6 miler on Friday unless the Doc tells me different.  Tomorrow I won't be doing anything because I have to take Mom to Stillwater for her appointment at 8:40 am.  Unlike you, I won't be getting up at 4 am to get a run in!  Then Thursday I will go to the gym again so Friday will be my next run.

Back in business!

And not only with my router! Which, thanks to Bart, is working again. But I also mean I'm back in business with my long run. It's been awhile! I woke up at 4:30 today, without an alarm. I actually decided that if I slept in, I slept in and that's just the way it would be. But I got up early so I was able to get in a run. It was pretty nice out for the entire run. Different running that early - not much traffic. Which doesn't impact me on the Kensington side but is nice when I do the Texas part of the loop. I did do 8 miles and I ran Texas twice. That was my goal, so I am very pleased. Oh, I will mention that I also went to the gym after work yesterday. But, alas, no wifi to post!

Gandy Dancer Run

I ran the 6 miles from Centuria to St. Croix Falls on the Gandy Dancer.  Very nice.  About 60 degrees, no wind, beautiful.  A tree down over the trail in one place so I had to take a little detour into the woods to get around it.  Otherwise, smooth sailing all the way.  Pace was 10.54 overall so not the best but I got it done.

I wore the new shoes without the orthotics and they felt fine.  No groin discomfort today at all.  Legs felt weak in the last mile but not from groin pain.  At least not today.

The Whistlestop is 4 weeks from today!

Good run

At least it felt good! Time wasn't great, but I've come to accept this fact. But I felt strong and that's what counts. It was 85 by the time I got home from running. I'll have to get up at 3 or 4 on Saturday so I can do my long run before the heat of the day. To which I say bummer! Although that's way better than getting up for work! Feet feel sore - different sore. I think it's just an adjustment. I bet it will be better tomorrow.

TM still works

Only 41 here this morning so I chose to run inside.  It's partly cloudy and not too windy out there but I decided to see if the TM still works and it does.  I almost quit during the first half mile though because of the ache in my left groin.  Not going to call it pain but the discomfort was back for sure.  But I just kept going and it eased up a lot after the first half mile.

I am enjoying going to the gym 3 days a week.  Not too busy when I go usually about 8:15.  Several Peace members (all women) come at 9:00 for a class and they want me to join it but I don't know.  Maybe in the winter when we're locked inside so much I will.  Zumba on Monday and Wednesday and RIPPED on Tuesday and Thursday.  Angie goes to the RIPPED class sometimes.  Might help me lose some weight?

I did stuff!

Yay! I ran and I went to the gym! This just really isn't good running weather, I have to say. I went at 9:15 and it was 85 and I just don't like that. Too hot! Oh well, it is done! I was "interviewed" by my local insane guy when I was running. He lives over in Kensington. He was doing something with his lawn with a garden hose. It wasn't attached to anything - he was just carrying it. And that was the microphone he used when interviewing me! Funny! Can't really report on my shoes yet, because I had a couple days off. But I still like them a lot! Also I had some gym times. The usual. It was good. Very busy there today! I've been doing so much good for me stuff and not eating sweets (at all really, I can't believe it! Real change.) but I'm not losing any weight. Frustrating.

Gym Day

And it's a good thing, too.  Rained all night here starting about midnight.  Cold (45) and raining and very windy this morning.  Fall has arrived in Wisconsin.  Not sure what tomorrow will bring.  Probably be on the TM.  Anyway, left leg and groin are bothering me some today but I'm ignoring them.

Slow but I did it

I ran the Fitnatics 3 miles this morning.  It was slow but I got it done.  Some discomfort but no pain so now I'll see what the rest of the day brings.  This might have been my last outdoor run in shorts!  Supposed to be a cold front moving in tonight and rain and "going to feel like fall."  So, we'll see about that, too.  I wore my orthotics in the new shoes this morning and can't decide yet about that.  They seemed a little high in the arch at first but then I didn't notice that after a bit.

Oy, the heat!

Well, I wanted to do a long run today but it was just too hot. 85 by 9:30. And since I slept till 7:30 (much to Zoey's dismay!) I was just going to get a later start running, that's all there was to it! So I went to the gym instead. Stairway to Hell for 10 minutes to warm up and then I did my normal stuff. That's my report!

New shoes from a new store!

I did it - I broke down and got some new shoes today. Even with switching out my insoles, I was still having a lot of foot pain. Better, but still there. And last week that back twinge started coming back. So I just couldn't wait anymore. We have a new running store on El Cajon Blvd! http://www.milestonerunning.com/ So I went to check them out. Turns out they have a 30 day "wear em/love em" guarantee. Which is so great. I'm always wary about buying shoes away from RoadRunner because, in the past, I've been burned when the shoe didn't work out. So I got my first ever pair of Brooks. They are called PureCodence. No clue what that means! I'm going to try them without orthotics first. They are light, very squishy, and have a darn decent arch. I ran at the gym today because it was so hot by the time I was ready to go. Did a 5k on the treadmill, 5% incline/6.0 pace. I'm really anxious to see how my feet feel tomorrow! I've been listening to another really good book (The Golden Compass). Made the 3 miles go quickly!

I did it!

I am having a very crabby work day and I really didn't think I was going to be able to get to the gym. And then I decided....I'm always going to have a ton of work to do. So I went! Ha. Of course, I'm doing some work now, so I just delayed it! Good gym, so glad I went. I just did my usual things. Which includes ignoring everyone to the very best of my ability! I'm still thinking of their 99$ for 3 personal training sessions....maybe. I am not really getting muscles so I want someone to tell me what to do! I feel so good after my massage last night. I'll have to look for shoes tomorrow.

Run

A long and busy day yesterday so I'm just posting yesterday's update now. I forgot to do so before I shut down my computer and I really dislike posting from my phone. That's when we end up with posts about my "ear"!! I ran yesterday it it was....really difficult. I did not want to do it, it felt slow, it WAS slow. I just felt sore and tired, both. And I think that lead into the poor run. I did get a fantastic massage last night, though. I hope it helps me. He did a lot of work on my legs and, this morning, I feel great. Gym day today but, hopefully, I'll feel the improvement tomorrow when I run. If I have time, I'm going to try and get a new pair of shoes today. It's needed, my old ones are just dead. I'll see if they have the brand you got! Gym day today so I'll post about that later.

Day Off

I'm telling you, my left groin area is so tender when I get up in the morning I can hardly walk to the bathroom.  Until I get some Aleve (2 this morning) or Ibuprofen in me, it is very uncomfortable.  So I'm not running today and might just take a few days off and give it a rest.  I'm registered for a 5K in Osceola on Saturday morning but not at all sure I'm going to show up now.  I went through this last year in the right groin area so what's the deal here?  Wish I knew.

Gym Times

Today was chaotic! I really wondered if I would get to the gym or not. I knew I was not going to run because I missed my window of opportunity before it hit 80. But I had a date with Arlene today at 2:30 so I was not going to be able to go after work. Well, it all worked out because I decided to go on my lunch and just make up any time I was over on my lunch break. So that's what I did. I did the elliptical for my warmup and I was by an absolutely insane woman. She kept laughing SO LOUD at nothing. The entire time. I kept my eyes closed and went to my happy place. Weights are still challenging after being off due to sickness. Suppose that will take a couple more times before I get back in gear.

Another Gym Day

And now I'm wondering about the eliptical machine.  I've never used one until these last two weeks.  I was told to warm up with 5 minutes on the eliptical or treadmill before doing the weight lifting, etc.  So I've been doing the eliptical and I'm wondering if that's using different muscles and is what's making me so stiff and sore all the time.  Got to blame it on something, right?  Can't just be old age.  also, I have decided to just stick with the orthotics until after the Whistlestop.  Not going to try any thing else different before then.

Saw my neighbor coming home from a morning run as I left for the gym.

4 mile run

I ran arond the 4 mile block again this morning and pace was slightly better.  10.56 per mile.  Gorgeous morning here.  Perfect actually.

I'm thinking I might try running on Thursday with my orthotics in the new shoes.  These shoes feel ever so slightly higher in the heel and I like that because I feel like I'm being propelled forward with each step but they are really making the muscles in the front of my legs sore.  Not sure what to do.  I would really like to get away from the orthotics altogether but maybe I won't try to wean away from them until after the Whistlestop.  I like the new shoes though.  Feel very good.

I'm back....I think

This sickness has been so frustrating. I felt better Friday and did run, although I was not 100%. Then, Saturday, my headache was the worst it had been. Really debilitating. Then, Saturday, I woke up feeling absolutely fantastic. In fact, I went to the gym yesterday, I was feeling so good. The gym was so challenging yesterday. I see from my journal the last time I was there had been 8/22! So 8/22 to 8/31. I know the 24th and 25th were probably running days or days off. But that's a long time to be too sick to hit the gym! I had been using 15 lbs for my bicep curls but did two sets at 12.5 and the 3rd set at 10. I also did my leg extension at 30 rather than 35 pounds. Otherwise I did the rest at my normal weights and I sure can feel all my muscles today! I did run today but only 4.3 miles. Texas only once. I think I'm still a bit in recovery mode and I was up late last night and it was SO HOT by the time I decided it was actually unhealthy to continue. Although weather tells me it is only 3 out. Seems a lot warmer! Or it did when I was running. Maybe the temp dropped from 150 to 73 since I've been home!

Gym Day

Yes, I know it's Labor Day and supposed to be a day of rest from our labors but....I need to keep doing this for a month to see how it goes.  I didn't do all the leg stuff today though because my legs are just tired.  I did all the upper body stuff.  There were a couple of different older guys showing off in there today!  One especially.  Not the same guy I saw on Friday.  So I have role models to aspire to!