Today's Run - 2006-02-06

Pretty decent run until the treadmill broke. Got an E5 Sensor Error and will have to make a service call.

Felt good - coulda kept going.

6 x 1600 at 6:39 (9mph for 3/4 then 9.1 for last 1/4)
Altogether 8 in 56.

Today's Run - 2006-02-05

Not too good. There was a snowstorm, so I decided to hit our mill. Was gonna do 12 miles with speedwork, but was so tired I could only manage 4 - 2 before and 2 after weights.

Home and Flower Show and Weight Watchers

Somehow Debbie and I dragged ourselves out of bed today and actually went out, picked up Kathy and went to the Home and Flower Show. Nice show with lotso stuff to look at. Didn't make any purcheses of any kind though. Last night Kathy was nice enough to have us over for dinner. Good for you stir-fry.

I'm counting the points as of today, along with Debbie and Kathy (who's lost 10 lbs!). I didn't do too good today - had to dig into my flex points by 7! Gotta run more and eat less.

Maui 2006

This will be a bit different from the usual tirades. Yes, this will be a special tirade... It will be different in that it won't just be a day-by-day account of our 2006 Hawaii trip. The reason? The trip itself was different this time. We didn't spend a lot of time or trouble to get there. We didn't spend a lot of money whilst there - at least no more than we had to. We didn't do a whole lot, but we did do some things. And finally, we only went to one island, instead of the usual two, and sometimes more.

The trip to and from was as nice and easy as a trip to Hawaii can be - we only stopped once in Houston, then came directly to Maui. Same going back.

We stayed at the Renaissance Wailea. It's a wonderful resort hotel, with all the amenities you can imagine. Unfortunately, it's slightly dated, and there are rumors that it will be turned into condos. This would be a sad development since we'd surely return some day. The Renaissance upgraded us to an oceanview room where we could hear the singing from the place’s restaurant as well as the drums of the local luau. They also gave us some free ice cream, and unlimited coffee and soft drink refills.

Not that we'd ever pay for such a thing as staying at this fancy schmancy joint. Those Marriott Rewards Points take some time to accumulate, but they sure pay off well. I should also mention here that the air, as usual, was based on NW frequent flyer miles. So our costs were mostly the rental car and meals.

Speaking of keeping the costs down, we did something for the first time. We attended a timeshare presentation. It was at the old Maui Marriott in Kaanapali, a place where we’ve stayed in the past when it was a normal hotel, and it was actually a very informative and interesting ninety minutes. Not that we would ever, ever seriously consider such a thing... but we got $150 in gift certificates to be spent on meals at our hotel out of the deal.

There was one other costly item. It really wasn’t that bad – fifty bucks each, and well worth it. It was Warren and Annabelle's Magic Show, back in West Maui/Lahaina again. Debbie and I don’t get out for these kinds of things much, but this was highly recommended. And with good reason - what a great show! Warren's magical skills are unsurpassed (how did he do some of those things?), and he was extremely funny as well. I, in turn, will now strongly recommend this show to anyone coming to Maui.

As usual, we ate well. It didn’t take too much to use our $150 credit, but the food at the Renaissance’s Palm Court dinner buffet was great. The famous onion rings at the resort’s lunch place, the Maui Onion were also yummy, but they did me in. Maybe it’s because one serving was about 8 pounds. Other joints we haunted:

A Saigon Café: Thai/Vietnamese place frequented by locals. Very good food and lots of local color.
Prince Court: In the Maui Prince Hotel, this was our fanciest, most expensive, and generally best meal. The $28 Entertainment Book discount was like a pebble off Mount Everest. But it sure tasted good.
Aloha Mixed Plate: Another place frequented by the locals. With authentic Hawaiian food. It included a lot of food found at the typical luau, but without the entertainment and high prices.
South Shore Tiki Lounge: Another local place, but more of a bar, with food as an afterthought. Food is never an afterthought to Debbie or I. They had a singer who was very good however.
Bada Bing: Very good Italian food. Entertainment Coupon helped here too.
Bamboo Grill: Yet another local joint. I loved the Thai food, but Debbie didn’t think the place was very clean, and didn’t enjoy the experience. Maybe it was because the chef came out to have a smoke in his best dirty white t-shirt.

Other food stuff: Not a whole lot of other restaurants for 11 days there. We had a fridge in our room, so we had milk and cereal as well as lots of fruit for breakfast, and lunchmeat/cheese sandwiches and chips for lunches. The chips and the bakery were not the best ideas.

Two of our three most exciting activities were whale watching and hiking. In the past, we’ve paid good money to go on whale-watching boats. This time we could watch the whales right from the shore. And they were very close by. We could even see them from our lanai. It was pretty amazing stuff. Some would slap their tails on the water multiple times. We even saw complete breaches, which I thought were rare: on different occasions, Debbie and I both saw the whales jump completely out of the water. What a sight!

The other activity that I’m willing to discuss is the hiking. Debbie and I walked every day. There is a 1.5 mile (each way) walkway along the ocean to connect all the resort hotels in Wailea. If we did nothing else, we did that walk. It also made for great people and whale watching. But the big hikes were really big. We did three:

1) Lahaina Pali trail. It heads up the west Maui mountains and back. We could've gone to the other end, but then would've had to arrange for transportation back. It was 5.75 miles, but the 1600 elevation climb over rocky terrain was extremely tough. And coming back down in the afternoon heat wasn't any easier. Took 2 1/2 hours to get up there and 1 hour 50 minutes to come back down. But what views! It wore us out, but what a hike!
2) Waile'e Ridge Trail. It was almost as difficult as the Lahaina Pali Trail, but we didn't have to contend with as many rocks, and there was a bit more shade. This one was also on West Maui, but on the cooler/wetter part. The views were unsurpassed the whole way. The valley below was unbelievable. We hiked the 4.75 mile, 1500 foot elevation climb in about 4 hours. Once again, coming down the steep hills was almost as challenging as going up.
3) Pipiwai Trail. This was our third and last Major Hike, and it was a very nice one. About 4 miles round trip, and about 600 to 800 feet up, it was easier than the others. At the end of the trail was Waikomo Falls, which cascaded hundreds of feet down. There were other falls and many pools as well. It was another beautiful place here in paradise. The hike took about 4 hours. Probably the hardest part about this one, however, was the drive to and from it. Located at Oheo Gulch near Hana, the driving round trip was over five hours. But, as I like to say, the joy is in the journey.

Other slightly less exciting activities included driving around the larger east end of the island twice. You wouldn't think that a simple drive around an island (well, most of it) would be such an adventure. But the "Road to Hana" is justifiably one of the most famous drives in the world. The beauty of the many waterfalls and ocean and mountain vistas did not disappoint. We had lunch in Hana (there really isn't all that much there - it's the journey that's important) and then drove on to Oheo Gulch. This was formerly known as the Seven Sacred Pools – until someone figured out that there’s not seven pools, and they’re not sacred. We kept going around the south end of the island, thereby violating our rental agreement because the road is rough and somewhat scary. Now we're worried that the rental car police will come after us. The south end is spectacular in it's own way, but much dryer. All in all it took us 9 hours to drive the 100 to 150 miles that first time. Debbie was ill afterwards. It must have been the stressful hike the day before combined with the rough road on the trip. The second round trip was counter-clockwise, and we didn’t stop hardly at all, except for the Pipiwai Trail.

One day we drove to upcountry Maui and walked through the Kula Botanical Gardens, and also stopped at Sunrise Market and Protea Farm. That was a nice, easy day.

We did some exploring in the areas south of the Renaissance - Makena, Big Beach, Le Perouse Bay, etc. This is the area that I run to almost every morning. And speaking of running, I did a lot there, especially on that deserted road down through the lava flow to the dead end that feels like the end of the world. It was exciting, mostly because it was extremely dark. Dark enough to be hit by a bicyclist coming down a hill at me. That happened there last time, but this time I had my headlamp for protection and vision.

I also did a bit of snorkeling and swam in the cool ocean after each day’s run.

The rest was active relaxation. Reading, watching the waves, watching the sunsets, etc, etc. That was the best part.

My Runs on Maui - Jan 24 to Feb 3, 2006

01-24
Starting out from the Renaissaince Wailea, the same joint that Rita and George have been known to frequent, I headed south into the early morning darkness. After a couple miles I finally went by the last of the big resorts in the Wailea/Makena area. That's when the darkness really enveloped me. It's happened before - the time I was hit by a bicyclist coming fast down a hill, when neither of us saw the other. But this time I was wearing a bright headlamp around my waist. It made a huge difference, and I wound up collision-free, but the darkness was scary nonetheless.

I began hearing them rustling in the bushes in the sides of the road. Every now and then, one or two would make more of a fuss and fly away. These were "Rita's Chickens" - the ones that accompanied her on her run in these parts. They may have accompanied me, too, except they were spooked by me going by in the dark. Not that I wasn't spooked myself, you know...

It got even spookier as I reached the end of the road, because there is *nothing* around. Nothing.

I made it out in an hour, 13 minutes, and back (the cocks were beginning to crow now, because it was getting slightly light) in an hour, 11 minutes. I figure it was about 8 miles each way. I'll do it again - maybe more than once.

01-25
Tired legs - tired everything today. I just slogged around Kihei (and back on the busy highway) for an hour 55 minutes. I'll call it 13.

01-26
14 on the hotel dreadmill (1%) due to the pouring rain. Pretty good going though - I managed 11 miles at MP (75:22). Not too much holding on. 98.5 minutes total.

01-27
I did the run to the end of the road again today. This time it was even more interesting - I saw the Southern Cross and two shooting stars. It was even darker than last time due to the new moon. But those stars sure were bright.

More chickens rustling in the dark again. And something else too - a night hawk or owl flew along with me for a while. If I didn't know better, I'd say it was a chicken.

Anyway, I ran better this time, probably because I knew a bit better where I was going. 72.5 minutes out, and a semi-swift 69 minutes back.

Being a Software Engineering Metrics Consultant has at least one major drawback. I just *have* to measure everything. This meant driving the course I'd been running... Running with the assumption that it was at least 8 miles each way. It turns outh that these slow 16 milers I'd been doing are instead *extremely* slow 15 milers. Oh well - at least they are extremely slow 15 milers in Hawaii.

I should say that the course is very hilly. And I've already mentioned the darkness, which is still a problem despite my light. I've now run a few other places here in Makena, Wailea and Kihei, but this course remains the most challenging, exciting and fun. I'll keep at it.

I did do the course again on Sunday, and Tuesday. Could knowing the distance make me run faster? Splits for Sunday were 69.5 and 66.5 (1:16), and Tuesday they were 69.5 and 64.5 for a 1:14 (woo-hoo). One of the exciting things about the course are the stars. I mentioned the Southern Cross - I've been seeing that fairly regularly, as well as shooting stars. Great - except it's tough to keep my eyes on the dark road.

And I've noticed that as I hit the buffet some evenings, my light - that I have strapped around my waist above my navel, has begun pointing up. I call this the big belly syndrome.

One Monday, 1-30, I did 15 miles in 2:14, but not on the usual course - I just explored new roads aroung Kihei and Wailea.

01-31
This time it was the usual course again. And I done good - at least incrementally so. Splits were 69.5, 64.5 for a 2:14 - the best yet. Another enjoyable and adventurous trip.

02-01
I didn't have much time (we were to drive to the other side of the island), but I wanted to get another 15 in, so I stuck to the mill. Fairly good - with the first 13-mile MP in quite some time. I did begin holding on too much for mile 12, but then mile 13 was hands free again. Altogether 15 in 1:45, with the MP in 90 flat.

02-02
Last time for the 15-miler to the end of the road. At least for this trip. Just as enjoyable as the other ones, and the fastest yet. Splits were 67.5, 63.5 for a 2:11. Saw the southern cross again.

At least each of my five runs on the course got faster. I enjoyed them all. I think my fitness level has improved since the vacation began. I may squeeze in one more easy run.

02-03

Just 5 easy, slow miles around Wailea in 46 minutes. Lotso hills.

Today's Running - 2006-01-22

What a great run today. It was cold (about 27) and frosty, but a wonderful day for a run. I got to Hinckley Lake early enough to do 12 before the rest of the Dead Runners showed up. And they were a most excellent 12 miles. The 3-mile splits were: 24, 22, 20.5, 20.5. So I can call the entire 6 miles for laps 3 and 4 a tempo run. First 6-mile tempo in a long long time. I felt good, and although the hills were tough, I did good too.

Things slowed down when the gang arrived, because we hit the trails. Mostly about a 9.5 minute pace, although some seemed faster. Lots of hills out there today, too.

Debbie met all of us at DoubleSides for breakfast afterwards.

Here's Rita's take:

Dear neodeads,
Dan Horvath, Dan Fox, listgod Bob Hart, Tom Bieniosek,
George and I met at Hinckley this morning for our hour-or-so run.
Dan H ran 12 miles before the rest of us arrived. We stood
for a bit waiting for the 8:30 am start time as the men
exchanged kidney-stone horror stories. We were all
thinking of Charlie Kirchner this weekend.

Almost everyone ran in shorts today.

This morning's encounter was greatly enhanced by the
company of Tom Bieniosek's older daughter Genevieve
and her boyfriend Bren, both visiting from Maryland.
They are very fit young people who tackled the hills
of Hinckley with aplomb.

The course seemed hillier than ever to me today! We ran from
the lot maybe a little faster than usual? Dan H seemed
not a bit tired, in spite of his 12-mile warm-up. Drat.
We departed the paved path at the crest of the first hill
in favor of the frozen trails.

A downed log across the trail inspired us to consider
cross-training in the form of power lifting. Listgod Bob
declined, saying that the only thing that would move
if he tried to lift the log would be the disks in his spine.
For the supple among us (including George and Bren and
maybe Dan Fox, but certainly not I), the log provided the
chance to practice hurdling technique.

From there we split into groups going different directions. I
went with the group that set out for the Buckeye Trail, which
seems to go only uphill from that point. After the largest,
longest, I-had-to-walk-a-bit hill, we descended slightly and
eventually reached a road (I don't know which one) that
intersects State Rd, so we returned to the pavement. Dan
Fox remarked that the decision to run on the paved surface
and the ensuing damage to his legs will certainly shorten (by
minutes!) his lifetime running career. On the plus side,
the rolling ups and downs of the roads provided a clear
preview for Dan Horvath of what running on Maui will be like.

Bob Hart and I charged down one of the longer descents,
reminiscent of the early days of the neodeads.
Back then, Joe J, Charlie, Tom, Bob, Mike George, and
any other of those guys overly burdened with testosterone
would plunge down the hill from Carriage Trail to the towpath,
with utter disregard for downed logs, ruts, rocks, and rough
surface. Yikes! I always held back, avoiding what could
be truly breakneck speed on the rough trail.

Today on the smooth pavement I was much braver. I need
to practice my downhills for Boston anyway, so I kept up
with Bob. Dr Tom and the two Dans stayed behind us a bit,
but they all passed us easily on the ascents.

En route back to the parking lot, we encountered Bren running
solo. He turned to follow us, and soon afterwards we met
Genevieve running solo. She turned and was swept up in
our wake as well. We reached the lot after this tough (for
me) run that lasted a mere 58 minutes and measured
5.93 miles on my Forerunner.

All together again, we used Bob Hart's tripod and George's
camera for a group photo (next email) before we got too chilled.
Girl Scout Trefoil cookies were served, and the running gods
were toasted with hot dark-roasted coffee---with the customary
neodead additive---by those who brought their freaking coffee mugs.

Debbie Horvath joined us afterwards, breakfast for nine at
DoubleSides. Dan Fox got the Boca burger; perhaps he should
have got two in order to build strength for Rocky Racoon in 2 weeks.
We talked for a long time about digging wells, gmail,
the early days of the World Wide Web and Mosaic and bitnet,
strange dialects and inflections in the American English language,
upcoming neodead race agendas, lost Boston t-shirts, and
a town called Athol. So many conversational threads
escaped me but these are a few.

After the encounter, George and I entered I-71 northbound just
before what looked like a coyote bounded across the ramp in
front of us. Dan Fox, I assume you saw it too?

No plans for next week yet.

Debbie Got Home and Yesterday's Run

I ran with Dave, Debbie and Amy in the cold cold wind and rain today. The temp dropped about 15 degrees in minutes. I didn't need much mileage, so I cut the misery short. Call it 8 miles. Hardly worth the trip to BVH.

I picked Debbie up from CAK. She had a fun couple days in Florida, but is happy to be home.

I looked at treadmills with Dave yesterday afternoon.

Now the final packing and other preparation for Hawaii.

Today's Runs and Shortest Workout Ever Exchange

I blaized a new trail today. Something I've been wanting to try, but never quite did: a combination of my two 11-mile routes. Substation, Hamilton, Abbeyville (all the way to East Law), then East Law back to Metzger, and up to 303, then Myrtle, Hartneck, thru new subs, back on Hick Ridge, Manitaulin and back. I'm calling it 16, since GMAPS Pedometer still can't get through the new subs.

I thoroughly enjoyed it! The nice weather (50!) and early start helped. I may try to get out again.

Time: 2:17:30. Most miles were in the 8:30-8:40 range.

I'm on Zicam. Just felt the slightest hint of a cold yesterday, and thought I'd better hit the Z. I feel better now, but I'll stay on it for another day or so.

I got out at noon for a second run. It was still nice - low 50s and cloudy. I didn't want to drive anywhere at noon, so I just did the President's route - 3 miles at tempo pace (20:35). I felt great!

Here's an exchange between me and Rita regarding treadmills.





Well I just *have* to chime in on this one. Rita, I thoroughly enjoyed your
post. I must say that I felt the same way about treadmills the first few
times I rode them. Even now, after a thousand or two mill miles, I cannot
say that I enjoy a treadmill run in the same sense that I enjoy any
particular outdoor run. And even now, I couldn't possibly run even one mile
on the mill without watching a tv to pass the time.

I can't handle indoor tracks because of the constant turning, not to mention
dodging the dreaded walkers. I suppose if they were 8 laps per mile or
better, I wouldn't mind them so much. For my speedwork, I do enjoy the
challenge of outdoor tracks.

Back to dreadmills. There was a lively debate on the big list several years
ago. I had gotten past the initial boredom stage, and understood their value
as a training tool, but I had decided that they took the joy out of running.
I therefore swore off them for a year. Laurel Park took the opposite side,
arguing that they: 1) were great training tools (which I didn't dispute) and
2) could indeed provide running enjoyment and fulfillment (which I did
dispute with great vigor).

Now I have my own mill, with which I have a love-hate relationship. As long
as there's something on the tube, I can go quite a long way on it. After a
sort-of-planned very slow month in December (when the mill was in dry-dock),
I set it up in January and things turned around. Combined with the milder
weather, that mill has given my running quite a jump-start. I can even do
speedwork again. (Most of my mill runs turn into speedwork sessions, since I
still can't wait to get off the dang thing.) When the weather's decent
outside, I'll stay off the mill. But it's great to have it as an option for
the bad weather days. I need all the training help I can get.

See you all Sunday. Outside.

Dan





----- Original Message -----
From: "Rita L. Cognion"
To:
Sent: Friday, January 20, 2006 12:33 AM
Subject: shortest workout ever


> OK, maybe it was not the "shortest workout ever," but it
> was a lot shorter than I'd intended. I'm just not accustomed
> to running indoors.
>
> Facing an icy path and no YakTrax yesterday, I decided
> almost on the spur-of-the-moment to buy the last half
> of a one-month membership to Omni Fitness Center in
> Middleburg Hts. I drove the 3 miles to the facility, then slipped
> on the ice a little as I walked across the lot to enter the building,
> and I felt glad that I was about to escape the uncertain footing
> for awhile.
> Only $28 gets me an indoor running environment, with no ice,
> no need for screw-shoes, no YakTrax, until 31 January.
> I can run in shorts every day here!
>
> As soon as they took my photo for the ID, I went to the
> locker room, put on my shorts and running shoes, and
> headed for the treadmill. My aspirations were big;
> I expected to knock out 6 miles or so. Dan Horvath does
> this all the time, right? No problem.
>
> Oh, I was so wrong. Big problem! Time just drags on the
> treadmill!
> There was a TV, but i couldn't bear to look at it, some talk
> show crap or something, so instead I stared at a nail-hole on the
> wall in front of me, just above eye level. I hoped to attain some
> zen-like peace and flow in my running. And I ran endlessly it
> seemed, and frigging slowly too! The meter on the treadmill
> revealed that I had not even gone one mile yet after almost
> 10 minutes. What hell is this?!
> I upped the speed of the treadmill (why do their gauges and
> meters have no units or dimensions? Very poor practice!
> For example, what speed is "6"?) and I started making deals
> with myself. "Just hang in there for 4 miles, that will be
> enough for today. After all, it's a new surface, etc etc."
> Then after 12 or so minutes, which took an eternity to
> pass, I told myself: "OK, just do 20 minutes, whatever
> distance that is. You're halfway there! You don't need to
> run any longer than that for your first time on this odd surface."
> Then at 20:17, and some fraction over two miles (!) I
> abandoned the thing, with the bright idea to head upstairs
> to the indoor track.
>
> Twelve laps make one mile on the outside lane. At least there
> are units I can understand. Laps. Miles. And unfortunately, eons.
> The story did not change. After 1/4 mile, I realized that it takes a
> very long time to accumulate enough laps to make one mile. The track
> is better than the treadmill, but it was still torture to make those
> rounds. Hamster in a wheel. I did something like 1.25 miles
> and called it a day.
>
> The added insult is that while running on the track, one can see
> out the top-floor windows, and the outdoors looked unbelievably
> friendly from that viewpoint. I was dying to be out there!
>
> What do people do with their minds when they run indoors?
>
> After my miniature workout, 2 miles here, one mile there, I kicked
> myself into the shower, thinking I'd just wasted 28 bucks.
> But then as I walked to my car in the parking lot, I slipped on the
> ice again, and I remembered the reason I joined and promised to
> give it another shot...the next time it's unbearable outside.
>
> On the bright side, the 2-wk membership buys me a back-up
> plan until my replacement YakTrax arrives. But what torture.
>
> I'll see you folks outdoors.
> -----Rita

Florida and Today's Run

Debbie is flying with Mom to Florida today. Debbie will be back on Saturday. Hope they have a good trip. I'll be taking them to the CAK airport.

I just did a mile on the mill this morning. Maybe more later.

Florida and Today's Run

Debbie is flying with Mom to Florida today. Debbie will be back on Saturday. Hope they have a good trip. I'll be taking them to the CAK airport.

I just did a mile on the mill this morning. Maybe more later.

Today's Run - 2006-01-18

I have a love/hate relationship with my treadmill. I was just starting to think that I really do love it after all I put it through, and it stopped on me as I started my 20th mile out of 20. No idea why it stopped, it just did. Perhaps it was the heat, or it just got tired. I started it back up and it stopped again, but then it did ok after I cleaned it and let it cool down more.

So I did get my 20 in. It was about the same as last Saturday's run, with a 4-mile tempo during miles 16-19. Still some holding on for the last couple miles. 2:30:30.

5MI splits: 39, 38.5, 37.5, 35.5
Tempo - Miles 16-19 in 27:36

My weight is going the wrong way. I'm back up to 160 and I don't know why.

Today's Run - 2006-01-17

11 miles in Broadview Heights. I started with a 1/2 hour alone, where I did 3 times up Boston hill. Then I hooked up with Amy and we did another hour together. No Dave.

Today's Run - 2006-01-16

Only 2 on the mill. I was pretty tired from the last couple days. Broke out the new adiddas ozweego trail shoes, which I'll take to Hawaii for hiking. They seem good for running though.

Two Cars in the Garage

We managed this over the weekend. Of course the basement's a mess. That'll continue to be the case until Debbie finishes the workroom walls and floor.

Had czarnina at Kathy and Mike's on Saturday. Yesterday we had them over for rotisserie chicken.

Debbie and Kathy are doing the weight watchers point thing.

Today's Runs - 2006-01-15

I started with 6 on the treadmill, including some 1/4 mile hill repeats at 6% elevation. Then I drove to Peninsula to run 6 extremely slow miles with Rita, George and Bob Hart on the icy towpath. Here is Rita's account of that run:

Bob Hart and Dan Horvath and George and I enjoyed
an icy run this morning on the towpath, heading south
from Lock 29. The thermometer in the car read 23F when
we pulled into the parking lot, so I debated with myself on
wearing long pants or shorts. The decision to wear shorts
was clinched when my husband said that to do so would
be insane. The coldest part of me turned out to be my hands.

The most eventful part of the run for me was the failure of
the YakTrax on my left foot. One of the metal springs broke
in half, so it doesn't stay on my shoe anymore. I had trouble
keeping it on my shoe last week also, but I didn't realize till
today that it had failed.

After our somewhat uneasy hour-long run on the icy path, we
had hot coffee and Bailey's and Pecan Sandies quickly in the
parking lot. No group photo, even though Bob Hart brought his
tripod, because we were freezing then and wanted to get to the
heated restrooms to change clothes. But George had run only
4 miles, and he says he took some photos of me and Bob and
Dan H returning to the parking lot at the end of our hour.

Breakfast was at Panera in Hudson afterwards, where we
decided we'd like to go to DoubleSides again.

Today's Run - 2006-01-14

After 60F yesterday, I awoke to a snowstorm today. Driving towards Broadview Heights to run with Amy and Dave, I made it a mile into the storm before turning back. It was a real blizzard.

Onto the mill I went. Been a while since I did a 20 on it. But 20 it was. And not too bad either. After a hard shutdown due to a 1-2 minute electrical outage in the early miles. I got into a rhythm. My 5-mile splits were: 40, 38, 38, 35.5 for a total time of 2:31. Miles 16-19 made up a 4-mile tempo in 27:32.

I'd call this a great run except that there was some holding on. I've held much worse on other occasions, but I've gotta watch myself.

Afterwards I tried the old cold bath trick for the first time in a couple months. At Tahoe they were saying 15 minutes was the amount of time we should be in the cold water, so that's what I'd been doing. Today, besides the cold, my muscles seemed to be in pain from the position and from the cold water. I couldn't make it past about 2 minutes.

Track

I made it to the track today for the first time in a couple months. And it was a great workout!

After the warmup, I did a 3-mile tempo run that felt *very* easy. Then I did 4 x 1200, all just under 5 minutes. The whole thing felt nice, and I actually had to hold back a bit. I wasn't exhausted afterwards. The nice (38F) weather and nice sunrise helped too.

The tempo was in 20:27, and the 1200s were at an average of 4:54.

Basement Progress

A few days ago we moved the desks to the new office (wasn't easy). I've been moving tons of other stuff down as well. Debbie is finishing the doors and moulding. We're also finishing off the work room. Lots going on.

158

Ain't I a skinnie minnie? Lost 4 lbs since Christmas - maybe a couple more.

I only ran 2 miles on the mill today. Was still tuckered out from yesterday's lack of sleep, run, walk around Hinckley Lake and work in the basement.

Today's Run - 2006-01-10

Dave was out of commission with the baby and all, but I drove to BVH and ran with Amy and Debbie F. anyway. Decent run throught the old hood. 11 miles in 90 minutes.

Today's Runs - 2006-01-09

Another decent 11-mile run. In fact, it was very similar to last Thursday's run over the same course. Same overall time, but a slower start and a faster middle - same overall time - 87.5 minutes. It was warm (mid-40s) but felt cool due to the strong winds.

Since I was so frustrated at the slow start, and the miserable failure for my attempt at a tempo run, I stepped on the mill and did another 3 miles in 20:26. There. Now I have my tempo run.

Weight is going the right direction. Today I was down to 160, waivering on 159.

Today's Run - 2006-01-08 - and Maui Discussions

I did my 2 laps around Hinckley Lake in 47.5 minutes, and then the rest of the gang (Rita, George, Bob, Tom, Greg, Dan) showed up. Dan, Greg and I did the trails for about another 6 in 55 minutes. Nice icy morning. Nice hills. Nice scenery. Nice run.

Afterwards Debbie joined us at DoubleSides. Not bad food and decent prices. We talked a lot about Maui - including Rita's job interview there and ours and their trips. With that and reading the book, Maui Revealed, I'm excited about going. It'll help that I've got work the prior week.

Here is Rita's perspective for the day:

Dear neodeads,
It was a fun and well-attended encounter this morning.
Thanks to Dan Horvath of the Fuchsia Sporthills for
organizing it.

George and I pulled into the lot to find Greg Dykes and
Bob Hart waiting there. Dan H was already on the
road/trail, where he had run for an hour before meeting
the rest of us. Dan Fox arrived in his immaculate big
white truck and we departed. The parking lot was a
bit slippery, so I put on my YakTrax for their first outing
this winter. Several of us wore shorts.

As we started down the trail, Dr. Tom drove past in his
car, so we looped back to the lot to meet him. He wore
shorts also.

Our larger group broke into smaller clusters as we ran.
I ran with Dr. Tom for most of the run. George and
Bob were with us for the first loop, and they seemed
to enjoy their discussion of witchcraft. The Dans
must have pressed on ahead. I don't know which
group had Greg Dykes in it.

Running with Tom, I eventually realized our groups had
spread out so much that we could neither hear nor
see any of the others. I hoped Tom knew where we
were going. I'd been relying on Dan Horvath for directions.
Tom said he knew where we were, and his word was
good, so eventually we got back to the parking lot.
We ran for about an hour. Two loops I guess.
I was completely disoriented, just keeping pace
with Tom, who seemed to know our orientation
at all times. Thank heavens, if I'd been alone, I'd
probably still be out there, circling blindly somewhere.
All I need to know is which way is north and where the
lake is, and I'm good, but both bearing points were lost
on me today, and I felt lost. But I saw blue blazes so
I know i was on the Buckeye Trail for awhile.

Back at the lot, the people who brought their
freaking mugs :) enjoyed hot coffee with Bailey's.
We toasted the running gods and took some photos
(one in the next email.)
We ate the World's Hardest Butter Cookies, made
by yours truly at around 11 pm last night, and some
much more palatable Fig Newtons provided by
Greg Dykes.

Tom left us to drive to Pittsburgh, and the rest of us
reconvened at DoubleSides, where Debbie Horvath joined
us in a cozy U-shaped booth. [We talked about hawaii
a lot.] Boca Burger is the first burger listed on the
lunch menu, winning Dan Fox's praise. Oatmeal listed
on the menu pleased me. It's not Ari's---George and I
paid $11 for two breakfasts---but it's a bit more civilized
and not as smoky. I can't say much for the coffee,
but that's true at Ari's also.

We talked about ultras (go figure) and running with dogs.
We noted how lucky Greg Dykes is that he can just
pick up his chihuahua and carry him when the little
dog gets too tired to run anymore. This is after about
1/4 mile, Greg said. We talked about Bob Hart's next
home, wherever it will be. We pondered the whereabouts
of Joe Novicky, who has fallen silent on the list lately,
and discussed which fall marathons might be nice for
Bob Hart and Dan Fox. When asked, Dan Horvath gave
us his stats from the Tahoe Triple, but he reported only
his finishing time each day, and not the itemization
of how many miles he had run on each different pair
of shoes, and not what the average pace per shoe was.
Maybe he'll go home and tally that for us.

I'm beat now; so are you if you're still reading.
Next I'll send you an email with the photo attached.

Happy Orthodox Xmas and happy new year.
Hey, Joe N, keep in touch.
----Rita

Today's Run - 2006-01-07

I ran long today with Dave, Amy and Brian. The rest of them didn't go so far, but I wanted enough to call it 20. We ran in Broadview Heights and surrounding areas - Dave needed to stay close to home.

Not too bad. Some of it seemed to be at a really good pace, but the last few into the cold wind were slower. I did a few more after that, that were slower still. I'll call it 20 in 2:45.

Today's Run - 2006-01-05

Not a great run, but a pretty darn good one. Best ever on this course, but that's not saying all that much since I've only been running it recently. And I wanted to break 7 mpm for a tempo run for the stretch on Sleepy Hollow but only did the 3 in 21:53. So yeah, I'll take it.

Glad to be still (mostly) improving.

Today's Run and Baby G

Did 2 on the dreadmill today. Nothing big. A bit tougher than expected though.

Baby G was born yesterday. Mario is 6 lbs and 20 inches. All the G's are doing fine.

Going to see Mom today. Got her travel to Florida all set, so we gotta get her ready now.

What Got Into Me?

Today I did my Substation 11-mile run in near-record time: 87 minutes. Even when I was in good shape I rarely did better. Today's run included another tempo run (in 19:40) as well. The last 4 (in 34 minutes) were a bit of a struggle, but this was a very good one. Don't know how that happened.

After some weights, I did another 2 on the dreadmill. Maybe it's the dreadmill that got me out of my doldrums.

New Years Eve and Day

During New Year's Eve Day, Kathy gave me a buzz haircut. Debbie had been afraid to tackle it, but Kathy had confidence. 1/4 on the sides, and 3/8 on top. I love it! And so does everyone else. No more combing hair over the top of my head. No more worrying about my hair being mussed up. And it actually looks good. I don't look any more bald than before. I love it.

Went to Kathy and Mike's for their annual party. Stayed till about 1:30. Dave and Carol stayed at our place that night.

On New Year's Day morning I went to run with Dave, then on to Solon to pick Mom up and bring her back. Besides all of us, Kathy, Mike, Jessy, Mike and Laura came for dinner of roast pork.

Today (Jan 2) we're taking the decorations down. Debbie's tummy is hurting.

Yesterday's and Today's Runs - 2006-01-02

Yesterday I did about 10 easy with Dave on the parkway in 87 minutes.

Today I hit the mill for a tempo run once again. About the same as the other day - 7 in 50.5 minutes with the 3-mile tempo in 20:23. Still 0% elevation. Still no holding on.

The first 2 of today's miles were in the Nike Frees. 1st time in them for a long time, and these were only the 2nd and 3rd running miles in them. Wasn't bad at all.

Still doing weights too.

3263 in 2005

The highlight for 2005 was undoubtedly the Tahoe Triple. I'm pretty durn proud of that. My other racing was mediocre at best. The 3:12 at Huntington wasn't bad, but I had been after 3:10. Boston (3:32) was really bad, and Cleveland (3:18) was somewhat of a disappointment as well.

The only other race where I did just about as expected was the River Run 1/2. I was hoping for 1:28 and I got it. A few other shorter races weren't bad, but none were really good either.

The mileage (3,263) and average pace (8.15) were about as expected.

I guess the key is weight. I sort of lost sight of this throughout most of the year - especially towards the end. I need to keep it in the equation.

Today's Run - 2005-12-31

Last run of the year was a pretty good one. I'll call it 19 miles in about 2:40. It was with Dave, Andy and Amy - mostly on the hike and bike trail. Most of it was at a decent pace.

Now I gotta work on a 2005 year in review. Maybe tomorrow.

Speedwork!

Yes, I actually ran a little fast. Not super fast, but faster than I have for a month++. Felt pretty good. First time on the True treadmill since April or May. 3MI tempo run 20:24. 7 altogether in 51. My new paradigm is 0% on the True, but NO HOLDING ON!!

I also bought 2 pair running shoes at Champs for 19.99 each.

Today's Run - 2005-12-28

No matter what I do, I just can't seem to get down to 8 minute pace. I started out running the first two in just over 16 minutes, but then gradually slowed more and more. I'm still glad to be running pain-free. I think I'm getting stronger. 11-mile new subs course in 94.5 minutes. No stops.

Still doing weights 4 days a week. Weight is back up to 164.

Christmas

Christmas Eve was Sandy and Nancy's party. About the same as usual - lots of fun and games.

On Christmas Day we went to Jen and Cliff's. It was way way out in N. Bloomfield. Took an hour, twenty minutes to get there. Neat place. 3 horses, 15 or so dogs, 4wheeler, etc. Good food and good to see everyone.

Yesterday (boxing day) we visited with Kathy, Mike and kids. Also went out to Tony Roma's.

Today's Run - 2005-12-27

Nice and easy with Dave and Amy. We went on the Parkway - it was nice to do that again. 10 in 85.

Christmas Day Run

On Christmas Eve Day I did about 6 miles in about 49.5 minutes - already reported. on Christmas Day I wanted to get a 20 in, but got started too late and ran out of time. I did get 16 - at a decent pace. I ran up and down Substation and Laurel and finished in about 2:14. Not baddddd.

Today - 2005-12-24

I ran 6 miles at a decent pace - about 49.5 minutes. Actually broke 8 minute pace for the last mile.

Went to Aunt Hattie's funeral. It wasn't too stressful for Mom.

Picked Valerie up at the airport. We're about to head to Sandy and Nancy's for their annual Christmas Eve party.

Basement Progress

We got the ceiling finished on Tuesday, and the carpet on Wednesday. It is really nice. Still got a lot to do, but it looks almost done.

Aunt Hattie

Aunt Hattie died of a stroke on Wednesday. Thank goodness I got Mom over to see her just before she left the planet. We're worried about Mom, and have asked her many times to come stay with us short or long term. She says no, so maybe we'll try to get her to Florida earlier than planned.

The visitation is today, and the funeral is tomorrow, Christmas Eve Day. Veronica and Barry are coming tonight, so they plan to attend tomorrow. We'll take Mom today.

Today's Run - 2005-12-23

Another slow one. But it's the farthest I've run since my thon. And I'm still pain free. Dave and I did the TP for a while, then hit the roads and hills. 17 miles in 2:30.

Today's Run - 2005-12-21

Slow goin, but at least I'm goin. 11-mile loop thru new subs in 97 slow minutes. One of these days I'll need to get faster.

Yesterday's Run - 2005-12-20

It was cold. About 5F, with wind chills around -10 to -15. Good thing I was running with Dave and Amy - otherwise it would've been tought to get out. We started slow and gradually got faster. Stayed in the BVH hood for about 10 miles in about 86 minutes.

Life

We had Kathy, Mike and Jessy over for pizza on Friday. Kathy is having her lasik surgery today.

Saturday I bumped into Johnny and his two boys at Brueggers. Talked for a while - they may join us and Dave and Carol in taking Mom out to dinner tomorrow.

Yesterday we went to Mel and Carolyn's for a couples shower for Dave and Jill. Interesting home built in 1816 or so. Nice shower too.

Progress on the basement: yes, there is some. We're doing well on the fitness room ceiling. It would be great to finish today - we'll see.

Last Coupla Runs

I was so happy to feel better - maybe not 100% though, but better. At least I made it through Saturday's run without having to stop. About 9 miles on the snow-covered TP at about 9mpm, and about 6 on roads and faster. With Dave and Andy.

Yesterday was better still. No pain whatsoever. A very nice run on my usual 11-mile route down Substation. The slow time (96 minutes) felt like speedwork, so that was disappointing. At least I can run pain-free again though.

Now I can start to improve again. Got a long way to go.

Today's Run - 2005-12-14

Got home a day and a half early, so I went out to run at lunch time today, just after walking in the door. Got 6 miles in, but they weren't pretty at all. The calf is still sore - best I could do was 9++ minute miles (6 in 55 min) on the streets around home.

Basement Progress

Got a lot done over the weekend. Debbie and I did a lot and then Dave came over and we did some more. By Sunday the grid was completed, but there's still a lot to do. Debbie is working on it.

Yesterday's Run - 2005-12-12

The calf felt much better but not 100%. I decided to go for 15 one the MSP dreadmill at 0% elevation. Didn't happen. The calf hurt more and more beginning about mile 6 or 7. I only made it to 9, and had increased my speed to 7:30 miles. I did some weights and then 2 more slow ones to make 11 in 88 minutes. I've still got a long way to go.

Today's Run - 2005-12-10

The 'ole calf is still kind've bad. Andy, Dave and I took off from Station Road Bridge and went up the parkway hill. The towpath was covered with snow. I was worried about the hills and about running for 2+ hours.

The calf did hurt going up the hills, and seemed to be getting worse as we approached Broadview Rd. I decided to turn back, and Andy and Dave ran me back. Although the calf hurt, at least it didn't snap.

Final totals: 10 miles in 83 minutes.

164

That's about 6 pounds more than what I was. And about 11 pounds more than what I should be. The worst thing is that I can't run with this torn calf. But I'm gonna try today - stay tuned.

We got some work done on the basement ceiling yesterday. Debbie got the floor painted and most of the molding installed and stained during the week. We want to have all this stuff done before the carpet gets here Dec. 21. Too bad I have to head out again next week.

Today's Elliptical - 2005-12-07

Planes, Trains and Automobiles - for me it's Dreadmills, Ellipticals and Stair Machines. Only one on the mill - the calf is still sore and tight - I didn't want to snap it again. I spent most of the hour+ on the elliptical, generating a lot of sweat. Then I finished on the stair machine.

This injury is driving me nuts!

Yesterday's Run - 2005-12-05

Although my legs were sore from Sunday's snow/slush run, I had high hopes of doing some gentle speedwork on the dreadmill. Since it was to be so cold in MSP, I didn't even take my outdoor running gear. Nope, two decent dreadmill runs would be fine for me.

Since my legs were sore, I took some ibuprofen Sunday - the first in months. Even when I was in decent shape in late summer/fall, I wasn't taking it, except possibly very little once in a great while. Don't know if this had anything to do with my calamity, but you never know.

What was my calamity? My right calf was sore and tight as I got started. Exactly one mile into the run, it snapped. LOTS of pain, all of a sudden. I knew it was a pulled muscle right away. I did get on the elliptical trainer to do some more, but I knew I was done.

Now it hurts even to walk. I'll be out for a while.

Shower and Basement

Yesterday was Dave and Jill's Baby G. Shower. This was the one with Jill's family and friends. It was very nice. We were able to help a bit - mostly with loading the gifts.

Amazing how much more snow (maybe a foot) they have in Mayfield Heights. We did receive a few inches overnight.

Debbie and I have been making progress in the basement, but there's still a long way to go. Debbie will install molding and paint the floor before the carpet gets here. We've also been working on the ceiling. Took a lot just to get the outside frame up.

Today's Run - 2005-12-04

My legs were tired and sore already, and today's snow and slush didn't help. It was a tough one - a struggle the whole way. I did the 11-mile Substation/Sleepy Hollow Loop in 99 minutes. I'm hoping tomorrow will be better. I'll be in MSP - on the treadmill due to the cold.

Today's Run - 2005-12-03

Felt great today, even though it was cold and a bit snowy. Dave, Brian and I took off from Dave's and went to the towpath and back for 14, then for 1 more to Brian's. Felt great the whole way, even up the hill. I thoroughly enjoyed the parkway too.

Today's Run - 2005-12-01

Very good solid run (for these days) on a nice morning, on that nice new course. Steady the whole way. (New 11-mile course in 88 minutes).

Today's Run - 2005-11-29

Cold, miserable rain. I wouldn't have gone out at all, but I was to meet Dave and Amy. As it was, we only did about 8 miles in 65 minutes. I'm still shivering.

Basement Progress

We met Dave and Jill at Jaiper Junction for some excellent Indian Cuisine on plastic plates yesterday. This was after Dave had helped me get going on the basement ceiling. This was something that was hanging over my head lately. We managed to get all the main tees up in the office, and we placed a few tiles in to make sure they'd work. They do. I'm happy to see some progress!

Yesterday's and Today's Runs - 2005-11-27

Nice, easy run with Dave yesterday. We did 10 from my place, on Sleepy Hollow, Rocklyn, etc, back on Miner. Pretty slow - 88 minutes - but that's ok. Later on, Dave helped me on the basement ceiling.

Today I scouted out a new course. Figured out a very good one in that the traffic isn't bad at all. I took Substation,Sleepy Hollow,Muntz,Metzger,Myrtle,Hartneck,thru new subs,back on Hick Ridge, Stearns. It's 11, but I did a bit extra today to make 12 altogether in about 101 minutes.

Thanksgiving Weekend (so far)

What a great time. Val came home Wednesday evening in the snowstorm, and we had everyone over for lasagne (I made it).

Thursday we had everyone again, including Dave and Carol and Bill. Mom stayed home because of the snow. It did stop snowing, but was extremely cold. Good food!

Friday the girls shopped and I made soup from the bird. Good stuff. We played some games, including the new trivial pursuit and fact or crap.

Today we shopped with Kathy and tonight we're headed over to their place for prime rib.

Last Two Runs - Today and Turkey Day

Turkey Day was a blizzard. It was very tough going into that wind, and the snow hurt my face. An extremely slow 10 miles in about 96 minutes.

Today was slow as well. The footing was bad - there was snow, ice and slush about. It was still cold as well - about 25 with a wind chill. I did about 7 miles in the neighborhoods in about 65 minutes.

Today's Run - 2005-11-22

We did Dave's usual 10-mile loop in 84 minutes. Starting to snow/sleet at the end - glad we got finished. Supposed to be bad weather the rest of the week.

Busy Day and Today's Run - 2005-11-21

Just talked to Veronica - she had her identity stolen, but they caught the guy and she thinks everything's ok. I told her to check her credit cards and credit report.

The day was otherwise busy - cats to the vet, shopping, working in the basement (countertops - and the plumbing's almost done!) and work work.

The run was good - the usual 11 mile loop in 92 minutes. Fairly steady. Nice morning, but I hate that traffic coming back on Substation.

Connecticut and Today's Run - 2005-11-19

Debbie and I made good time on our trip to CT yesterday... just about 8 hours. No real problems. When we arrived we checked out Veronica and Barry's nicely updated kitchen, went to dinner at the Lime, which I really liked until I saw a roach on the edge of our table, then watched Star Wars III.

Today's run was my most enjoyable ever here in Connecticut. I did my usual West Rocks / East Rocks run, but this time I started following the arrows that had been painted on the roads. I'd seen them before, but never followed them this far. They are the markings for a five mile race and led back to a school for the start/finish. The 1-mile mark was on East Rocks. It's a very nice course, and I'll do it again next time.

Altogether with the usual 6, the 5 for the course, and some extra back and forth, I figure I ran 13 miles in 1:46. Most of the measured course miles were at about 8 minutes.

Today's Run - 2005-11-16

Easy does it. I couldn't even get myself out the door this morning due to laziness, but I did so at lunch time. An easy 3 on the Presidential streets. Not too bad - 25 minutes.

I'm still sore, but not too bad. Been hitting the weights all week for the first time since April or so.

Today's Run - 2005-11-15

It was cool and rainy - not my favorite running weather. But Dave and I trudged through most of our usual route, cutting it a bit short. Somewhere in there I lost the key that I always pin to the inside of my shorts. Debbie had to come and get me as I waited at Dave's.

Huntington Marathon

The Tahoe Triple a month and half ago caused me to get into pretty good shape. Of course those times were slow as expected due to the elevation, hills and overall distance. Would I be able to rest, train myself back into shape and then taper in five weeks time in order to run one decently fast single thon?

More importantly, a year and a half ago I ran a 3:10 in Cleveland, but I haven’t faired as well in several tries since then. Would I be able to get back to that level this time?

And most importantly, what kind of nut would drive nearly 5 hours alone to Huntington, WV, run their little race, and then hop right into the car and drive home?

Yes, folks, these and other questions would be answered at the Huntington Marathon, also known as the HealthyHuntington dot Org Marathon, also known as the Marshall University Marathon. I had seen all three names at different times over the weekend. I decided I’d just call it the Huntington Marathon for brevity.

The ride down was fairly uneventful, but brought back a few memories. Debbie and I lived in southern Ohio for several years, and for part of that time I worked in Huntington. I also earned my masters degree from what is now Marshall U. We moved away almost twenty years ago, but parts of it looked familiar. After checking into the Roof, I went to the expo/pasta dinner. As expected, it was pretty small: I counted one vendor. The pasta dinner was actually pretty good, although the atmosphere left something to be desired. The friendly folks doing the serving were happy to inform me that the pasta was “Dean Ormish”. I didn’t know what I was supposed to make of that, but it really did taste good on that plastic plate (using the plastic fork). And speaking of friendly, I had forgotten how genuinely nice everyone was in this part of the country. From the race director (who was all over the place) to the race volunteers to the people at the hotel to the girls at McDonalds, it was service with warmth, and a smile. Made me want to puke.

The field was about the size I had expected: about 350 in the thon, with more in the half, the relay and the walk. Not bad for such a small town. The weather was acceptable: upper 50s at the start and 60s at the finish, with just a bit of on-and-off rain and some wind. The course was flat. How they managed to find 26 flat miles in West by-God Virginia was quite a feat. It did involve a bit of repetition, especially the parts around Ritter Park. The Park itself was as nice as I remembered it from my 25-year ago runs there. Most of the rest of the course was not especially noteworthy, but that was ok. So I’d have no excuses.

I got to my desired 7:15 or so pace right away, and quickly found myself running with a guy named Chuck from somewhere in Lake County OH, and a guy from Chicago. We got to the 10-mile mark whilst in the park at 1:12:30, and then the half-way point on some deserted road at 1:35:30. I was feeling great, and had to keep telling myself to be patient. Even so, I left Chuck and the other guy behind. At mile 20, I would let myself go; I’d unleash the beast. But until then I’d bide my time and run an even pace. 14 and 15 were into the wind and rain, so they required a bit more effort, but I stayed on pace. Miles 16-18 were with the wind, and I wanted to go faster, but I still held back. Even though I still felt strong, I mile 19 went by in a 7:38. It was possible that it was off, but this was a bit disconcerting after all the steady miles. Mile 20 (in the park once again) was back where it should be: 7:16. And I was back where I should be: 2:25:29.

Now it was time: Time to pick up the pace; time to become a madman. 7:10 miles the rest of the way would do it, but I wanted to run even faster. There was only one minor problem: my ole legs were a tad tired. 21 was still on pace, but 22 and 23 were in the 7:20’s, and then the last couple were even slower. I passed several people during those last few miles, but Chuck, who had caught up to me a few other times, passed my in the last mile. The Chicago guy was a minute behind.

The finish was in the Marshall U. stadium, on the field. Some volunteers tried to hand me a football to carry those last 100 yards, but I waved them off. That final sprint couldn’t erase the last couple slow miles, but it felt good. I finished in 3:12:39.

I got my age group award (first!) instantly. I got a massage after waiting less than five minutes. I got a couple pieces of pizza as I was walking out of the stadium and the pizza delivery gal was walking in (service with a smile). I drove home. I’ve had more painful long car rides, but not many.

So the answers were yes, no, and duh. And I’ll take the 3:12. But next year, I’m really going to unleash that beast.

Y'day Travel, Today's Run 2005-11-11

The work week started easy - I saw & enjoyed "Jarhead" in my spare time. It got real busy as it went on. Glad to get home last night. I'm fairly caught up...

Nice run in nice crisp (30F) weather today. I did the three mile loop on the roads across 303 in 23.5 minutes. I felt great.

Today's Run - 2005-11-09

I stuck to the hotel dreadmill because of the wind outside. Just what I wanted to do: 9 miles at MP (62 minutes). And it was easy! I know - it would've been tougher outside, but I'd have managed. I'm real happy with this one.

Today's Run - 2005-11-07

I arrived here in the Twin Cities last night. No problems with the travel.

I was kind of sluggish today. I did about 11 miles along the Mississippi, including a loop of Nicolet Island. Time was 91 and a half minutes. The weather was decent - about 45 or so, warmer than expected.

Other Stuff

Went to Kathy and Mike's for dinner last night. Lots of laughs.

Debbie and Kathy went shopping today.

Brunswick Rec Center 5K

It was pouring rain when I drove the two miles to the start. Then it
stopped - it was merely extremely windy during the race. It poured like
crazy again as I was driving home. So I suppose I should count my lucky
stars. I had expected a very small turnout based on last year's small field
as well as this year's weather. Last year I had placed third overall with a
relatively slow time of 19:50. This year I thought I might be able to do
better. Hey - maybe no one else would show up at all, and I would win by
default!

As you may have guessed, this didn't happen. Although the throng of people
at the start line of the Brunswick Rec Center 5K didn't quite rival that of
the nearly simultaneous New York City Marathon, I was surprised that they
had more than last year. There were perhaps more than one hundred, and
dang-it, some fast guys too.

So I couldn't have been a contender. I finished somewhere in the top ten -
maybe seventh or eighth. Based on my training and last week's 5K (19:10),
this week's time was a little disappointing : 19:34. Yeah, it's faster than
last year, but it better be - I should be in better shape. And yeah, I could
blame it on the wind. Maybe I will.

I did get a trophy for first master. Nice to know I can still beat all the
40-year old punks. At least the ones in Brunswick.

Today's Run - 2005-11-05

14 miles on the towpath with Amy, Andy, Brian and Dave. Not too bad - 59 minutes out, 55 minutes back. Unseasonably warm. I felt a little sluggish - maybe cause no coffee.

Basement Progress

Spent all day Thursday shopping - bought counter tops, ceramic tiles and paint.

Got some of the rooms painted, including the stunningly purple (aka potty=trained purple) bathroom.

Today's Run - 2005-11-03

Another solid one. This time it was speedwork at the track. 3 x (1600, 1200, 800). About what I wanted. Better than last time. Times were 6:25, 4:41, 2:58, 6:25, 4:40, 2:57, 6:20, 4:41, 2:56. I did the eleven miles in 83 and a half minutes. Solid.

Today's Run - 2005-11-01

November already.

Dave and I took a different route: the parkway. Surprisingly, there was too much traffic, both on the parkway itself and on State. The parkway is still nice however - I miss it. 10.3 miles in 90 minutes. I'm gonna round up to 11 + extra time, for the log. I'll make it up next run.

Today's Run - 2005-10-31

Another solid long run today. I wasn't gonna, but I awoke early and decided to go for it. I wasn't 100% happy with it - I wanted to finish with a tempo run, and although the last 4 were in 28 minutes, a couple of those last miles were just slightly over 7 minutes. Still a solid run though.

4-mile splits: 33.5, 33.5, 32.5, 32.5, 32, 28 - time was 3:12.

Trick or Treat

Debbie said to buy eight bags o candy, based on what Kathy buys. I bought six, figuring that Kathy just likes to have some left over for the family. Wrong. We ran out in 45 minutes. Debbie had to turn the light back on when Jessie and her friend came over (we had saved a few pieces for that eventuality), and two little kids jumped up at our porch at that very moment. Luckily we could still accomodate them. Next year I'll buy *at least* seven bags.

Earlier we drove Kathy and Mike to Kendal Lake for a very nice walk around the lake and up some of the hills and trails. Stopped at Szlay's and then had chicken soup, including the feet, that Kathy had made.

After shutting our trick or treat operation down, Debbie and I watched North by Northwest and Rear Window (most of it for me).

Amherst Skeleton 5K

First I had to find Amherst. (It's near Oberlin, south of Lorain.) I did this one to fulfill my obligation to the Hermes Race Series. Since I did good today (19:10, probably 2nd in AG), I should win my age group for the series. Don't know what happened to the one guy who was ahead of me and then dropped off the list though.

The race was pretty good for me - maybe my best 5K in a year or so, but only by a little. First mile went well - 6:05. 2nd was fine too - 6:12, including some hills though a park. I *thought* I picked it up for the 3rd, but evidently the opposite was true: I did 6:52 for the final 1.1, including the finish on the track. It would've been really nice to beat 19 minutes, especially after that decent start.

I did beat some fast guys, and probably finished 2nd, so I'll take it.

Today's Run - 2005-10-29

Another superb long run. I'm gaining confidence - my training is going very well. Today I ran with Dave, Andy, Brian and Amy (for a few) on the towpath. Dave and I ran the last 3 hard - all under 7 minute pace.

took Mom to see Ed again

Ed's home now. After today's run I picked Mom up and drove her to Betsy and Ed's for a visit. She thoroughly enjoyed the fall foliage along the way. I had taken the scenic route on Alexander.

Ed seems to be doing fine. He's getting around ok with his walker. He is in some pain at times though.

Today's Run - 10-28-05

Not much to report - just 3 miles, easy through the subdivisions across 303. It was cold - low 30s. Neat.

Pretty good weight - 157. I just gotta hold it at that.

Milestones

We are officially done with the drywall and have started priming!

We are done with the wiring except for the final lighting hookups!

Basement Progress

ALMOST done with the joint compound and sanding. And for an extra bonus, I'm almost ready to hook up the electricity. We just won't have the ceiling lighting in yet.

Should be painting by the weekend.

Today's Run - 2005-10-27

After three straight runs in cold rain, I feel like I may be fighting another cold. I'm using Zicam again, and I feel like I may be winning the battle. I hope.

Today the weather was great. Since I rested yesterday, I got out early and ran long again, despite my ever so slight cold. It was a good strong run with a great finish. I did the two loops on Substation at about an 8 minute pace, and then the last 4 on the presidential streets in 28 minutes, with the last 3 at sub-7 minute pace. It felt great to finally actually do this.

Today's Run - 2005-10-25

Another cold soggy one. But a pretty good effort, nonetheless. I was up at 3:08, out the door by 3:40, to Dave's by 4:00, done with the first 10-mile loop at 5:19, and done with the second loop at 6:51 (1:21 total). This was the best time yet for the 2 x Dave's 10-mile loop course.

The cold wet weather probably helped - we just wanted to get through it as fast as possible. I just hope I don't catch a cold or anything.

Went to see Mom later on. The usual itinerary: bank, Marc's, Imperial Wok. I also installed a new toilet seat.

Today's Run - 2005-10-24

The weather was miserable: 42F with a very cold rain. I *hate* cold rain while running. And I felt lousy - still full from yesterday's breakfast. I needed the speed, so I decided I should just get through the run and back home as soon as possible. This meant doing a long marathon pace run instead of intervals. Given the conditions and how I felt, would it happen?

It happened. After a 1-mile warmup, I hit the track with a 9-mile MP run, managing to keep all the miles just under 7 minutes. I sure am happy to be through with this one, but I'm happier still that I was able to do it at all. It bodes well for Huntington, but I'm still not sure.

Another cold bath afterwards.

As I was getting into the car, WKSU was talking about their fund drive and they said there were a limited number of $50 gift certificates for Vaccaro's for $150 pledges. I pledged on my cell to make sure I got one. Then they called and awoke Debbie at about 7:15am to get my t-shirt size! I sure heard about that one!

Bob's Recital

Dead Runner Buddy Bob Mayerovitch put on a recital at Baldwin Wallace yesterday. In his words: "If anyone's in the mood for a peculiar encounter, I'm playing a recital at
Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory (96 Front Street, Berea, OH) on Sunday, October
23rd, at 4:00 PM. I'm letting down my previously (very previously) long
hair in favor of a concert entitled: "Crossover: Popular Tunes in Classical
Pieces" -- Mozart Variations on "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star", Beethoven
Variations on "Rule Britannia", a four-hand piece (that means I'll borrow
another body) based on Chopsticks, a set of ten variations in the style of
10 composers on "Mary Had a Little Lamb" and a virtuoso Fantasy on Themes
from the Wizard of Oz. I'll publicly admit to my severe regression."

We thought it was great. Bob talked about each piece, and this was quite informative. The music was very good too. We didn't hang around afterwards but went to dinner and home instead.

Dinner was fun. Wanted to use the entertainment book before it expires, so we first tried La Hacienda in Berea. Closed, perhaps permanently. Then Mahle's. Closed, but there were people inside. Couldn't figure that out. Then Red Onion. Open, but it didn't look too good to us. Then Alexander's. Closed. Then Bob Evans. The fifth time was a charm. Can't go wrong with Bob Evans.

Las Coupla Runs

I slogged 4 slow miles on Friday around the neighborhood.

Yesterday Dave and I did 20 on the muddy towpath. It was only cool to start, but the rain hit us with about 4 to go. I hate cold rain whilst running. Amy joined us about that time too, and then we all went for bagels and warm coffee. splits: 85, 81, so the total time was 2:46. So so.

Need to decide about the Huntington Marathon.

social / personal life and stuff

Yesterday we picked Mom up and took her to see Ed at St Vincent Hospital where he'd had his knee replacement surgery. He's doing well and should be home by the middle of next week.

Last night we went to Sokolowski's for their clambake along with Dave and Jill. Yummy. We followed that up with heading to see "The 40-Year Old Virgin", which is now on my top-5 list of all-time funny movies. (A few of the others are: Something about Mary, Animal House, It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World.)

Kathy and Mike came over for a fancy breakfast - livance and egg/sausage casserole along with pineapple and other stuff. Then we went for a much needed walk.

Too bad with all this fun there's no time to work in the basement.

Basement Progress and the car

We're still gooping and sanding. At least we've now completed one complete circuit of the basement for both the gooping and the sanding. Time for round two. Sure is a mess. And it sure seems to be taking a long long time.

The good news is that I fixed the car. I had to buy a new ignition cylinder because even though I got it apart, I still couldn't get the key out. The bad news is that the new one cost $218. At least it works again.

Today's Long Run - 2005-10-19

These cold baths after my runs are something. I think they help, but they sure are tough to take. Will I ever get used to them?

Decent long run on the Lester Rail Trail today, but slightly disappointing as well. I wanted to get down to tempo run pace late in the game, but it didn't happen. The best I could manage was a couple of 7:15 to 7:25 miles. At least this run had some good progression. 6-mile splits: 52:49, 51:25, 49:32, 47:03.

Nice moonlit start followed by a spectacular deep-red sunrise. Not to mention the pretty leaves. I love fall.

Maybe my next long run will include a tempo segment.

Today's Run - 2005-10-18

Nice run with Dave on our usual loop. 85 and a half minutes. My lower legs are a bit sore from yesterday. I took a cold bath afterwards, which was good for the legs, but very cold for the rest of me. I'm still shivering.

Iris and Mike's

Saturday we joined Bob and Linda at Iris and Mike's for a pot roast dinner. Another great time laughing our heads off. My chest hurt the next morning as if I had been coughing all night.

We also showed our pics that night and then again yesterday to Kathy and Mike.

Yesterday's and Today's Runs - 2005-10-17

Yesterday I caught up with NEODeads Rita, George, Tom, Bob M, Paulette for a very nice run in Rocky River Reservation. 6 very slow miles in about 56 minutes. Nice breakfast at Einstein's afterwards.

Today I hit the track on a chilly (40 or so), even frosty morning. It was the 'ole 3 x (1600, 1200, 800) workout, and it exceeded expectations. I did them in: (6:32, 4:46, 3:04, 6:30, 4:45, 3:04, 6:27, 4:43, 3:00), averaging 6:30, 4:45 and 3:03 for the mile, 3/4 and 1/2.

This is very hopeful. I do need to improve some more, but I'm happy with this.

Today's Run 2005-10-15

Enjoyable 15 mile run on the towpath today with Dave. Beautiful foliage. Very nice.

We're both still feeling our marathons a bit - but not too bad. Negative splits: 64, 61.5 minutes.

Problems Problems

Yesterday my key got stuck in the cadavalier ignition. It's still stuck. I think it thinks I'm trying to steal it. Good thing I was able to get it home in that condition. We'll probably have to have it towed to a dealer.

The desktop mouse also stopped working. Who knows why. I'll probably have to buy one.

On an unrelated note we had Dave and Jill over for pizza last night. Nice visit.

Today's Run - 2005-10-13

The 'ole legs are still tired and sore. I guess this one could've been worse. I ran around the President Streets 3-mile course 3 times, averiging about 25 minutes each. Then I did one more very slow mile in the sub. I'd better take a zero tomorrow - I need it.

Saw a shooting star this morning. Cool.

Today's Run - 2005-10-12

Speedwork! Not speedy speedwork, but speedwork nonetheless. It actually felt great to get out there and do it. Semi-runner's high on the way home.

This is not to say it wasn't tough. It was. And I certainly didn't set any land speed records. But it's a start. I'm testing the waters here for the next couple weeks to see how soon I should return to competition. Not to mention what type of competition. (May be between Philadelphia Marathon and the Fall Classic Half.

Today I did 7 x 1200 in 5:02, 4:59, 5:07, 4:58, 4:59, 5:05, 5:06. Slow, but at least consistent. Can only improve from here, right?

Tahoe Triple

Day 1 - Thursday, Oct 6, 2005

It's bad when you're out of breath before you begin a race. Especially so when you're running down a mountain. Could be the 7,000+ feet of elevation. The view from Inspiration point more than made up for the lack of oxygen.

After taking in that spectacular scene and watching the sunrise, we were off. It was clear, 29F, and only light breezes. Perfect. And for most of the way, the run went about as perfect as it could too. My crew consisted of my wife Debbie, brother Dave, and his wife Carol. They did a spectacular job of supporting me.

The first couple miles were extremely down hill, and we soon arrived in the towns of South Lake Tahoe and Stateline. I didn't like the traffic or the resulting exhaust. We had to run along the side of the road the whole way, but the traffic was the most of the problem going up/down mountains, and through town. I started slow even with that drop - about 8:30 miles. The course was marked every 5 miles. I hit mile 5 in 42:51.

Running with new friends Pat from Northwest Ohio and Bill from Invercargill, NZ, I settled down for the mostly level next 10 miles. This included the through town part, but also getting back out into less populated areas on the Nevada side of the lake. Did I mention that Pat and Bill are in my age group? Pat dropped back early on, but Bill pulled ahead of me at about mile 18. I passed 15 in 2:04. I felt great. The next 5 went well also. I hit the 20 mile mark in 2:47 - miles 15-20 had been in 42:50.

But at the 20-mile mark the hills were just beginning. Correction: the mountain was just beginning. Whereas the lake is at 6,200 feet, the finish at Spooner Summit is at 7,200 feet. And it was a steady climb from 20 on, with the steepest parts reserved for the final mile or two. I never stopped to walk. But it was an extremely slow slog. I didn't pass anyone, and nobody passed me. I actually did better than expected, running the final 10K in 55:11 to finish 13th out of about 112 starters in 3:42:11.

I'll take it. After soaking my legs in the icy cold lake, I hope I'll be ready for tomorrow. I'm sore, but I generally feel ok. We'll see.


Day 2 - Friday, Oct 7, 2005

There were some similarities to yesterday:

1) we started at a 7,000 foot plus elevation, so I was hyperventilating *before* I started running
2) we started at a 7,000 foot plus elevation, so there were some big downhills for the first few miles
3) the scenery was fantastic
4) the weather was great - only a few degrees warmer than yesterday
5) the last few were a bit of a death march

Now the differences:

1) I started too fast. I don't know why - I should've known better. But the guys I beat yesterday went way out in front of me, and I just had to try to hang with them.
2) Whereas yesterday was the toughest marathon, excluding ultras, that I've ever done, today's race was merely difficult.
3) Whereas yesterday's course had a mountain climb from 20 to 26, today there was merely a monster hill.
4) I somehow managed to run even slower for today's final 10K than yesterday's.

I suppose I can chalk it up to the accumulated miles on my old legs. I felt fine until a big hill at about mile 14. Starting at Spooner Summit, the first five were in 38 minutes (as I said, way too fast), the second five were in 41:39, and the third five (including the big hill) were in 43:09. So I was at 2:03 for the first 15. But that's where those accumulated miles took their toll.

The scenery was great the whole way. The traffic and exhaust fumes were much better today, but it was still tough to stay on the shoulder. Even the smaller towns on the north side of the lake weren't too bad. 15 to 20 were mostly flat, but I was slowing down: I did them in 44:42 and 20 went by in 2:47 and a half. Still not bad.

I was still slowing down when the big hill hit at about mile 23.5. I still never walked, but that slog was really bad. Even that last downhill mile into Tahoe City was slow. I finished 16th overall in 3:49:41. Something like a minute better than my PW.

Once again, my support crew was great. I don't know what I would've done without them.

Once again, I soaked my legs in the icy cold Tahoe water for about 20 minutes. I'm starting to wonder how much good this is doing me. Tomorrow's course may be tougher than Thursday's. At least they have the roads closed down and more support - this is the main marathon with several hundred participants.

Should I be as worried as I think I should be??


Day 3 - Saturday, Oct 8, 2005

*Excruciating* Quad Pain in the middle of the night. Enough to wake me up and keep me awake.

Last night's sunset pasta dinner cruise had been nice, and did indeed include a sunset and some pasta. But it was disappointing because it left so late that the sunset was just after we got going, leaving the lake dark for almost all of the voyage. It would have been far nicer to enjoy those beautiful hues of blue some more. There wasn't that much to the pasta either. Decent band though.

The 'ole legs were pretty sore, especially the quads, so I took a couple ibuprofen before heading to bed. I guess it was when they wore off that the pain woke me. All I could do is apply a self massage and worry that I may have to be a Did Not Start statistic.

By the time I made it to the start, I was still shaky, but generally better. I made up my mind that I was gonna get through this no matter what. This being the official marathon, there were 588 or so of us. Many more half-marathoners, 10Kers and 20-mile walkers joined us on the course at various times.

The first half was very scenic, but there were only a few views of the lake. I was indeed making it through, albeit slowly. There were only a few hills, so I managed about an 8:30-8:40 pace. The mountains were looming however.

God put many hills and mountains on this planet. But why o why did He always place them at about the 20-mile mark of every marathon? This time there was a huge climb at about mile 16, followed by a steep downhill, and then another tremendous climb from 19 to 20. I was reduced to walking for the first time in the three days. The scenery during these miles has to be as spectacular as that for any marathon anywhere. That helped with the pain.

I had hit the 15-mile mark in about 2:10, but it took me 53 minutes to negotiate those mountains to the 20-mile mark. Right at the 20-mile mark we were at Inspiration Point, at 7,000++ feet, the highest point on today's course. It's also where we started on day 1. It's also what I was calling "Perspiration Point", but then changed it to "Desperation Point".

The next three miles were severely downhill, but my attitude was "Damn the Quads, Full Speed Ahead". I did manage to pass a lot of people, and my legs held up, but then I slowed down again when we hit the nice, wooded bikepath for the final three miles. Pat, another triple guy, and a couple others passed me as I was desperately trying to get in under 4 hours.

Somehow I did, but not by much: 3:58:58. Bill the Kiwi ran his fastest of the three to win our age group. Pat and another guy got 2nd and 3rd - Pat had run with me before leaving me in the dust in the final 2 miles or so.

But I made it! As great as the Triple has been, I'm really glad it's over. Yes, I am proud of my accomplishment. I think I'll take tomorrow off.


Epilog / Lessons Learnt

I can't figure out how I could have trained any better. It wasn't practical for me to do any altitude training. I sure put in the miles, especially in terms of long runs. Back to back long runs and three in a row at times. Perhaps more hill work would have helped. In any case I still go by the mantra: “the will to win is nothing without the will to prepare”.

The triple was harder than most ultras are for me. This is mostly because I tried to race, such as it was, each of the three runs, whereas for ultras I usually slow way down and just slog through them.

In terms of time, I did about what I wanted and expected. The courses were about as tough as I expected too. That is to say, they were the three toughest marathons I've ever done. The altitude made all of them difficult for a lowlander like myself. Day 1 ended going up the mountain to Spooner Summit. Day 2 was the least difficult of the three, but it still had two big climbs at about miles 14 and 24, not to mention that it was long by about a half-mile. I know: suck it up, Dan. Day 3 was arguably the toughest of all - that double climb up to Inspiration Point at mile 20 was a monster. I know: suck it up, Dan.

It was neat being a rock star. That's how the other marathoners and half-marathoners viewed us triple-people. Time to come back down to earth now.

As pleased as I am with my overall time (11:30 for the three days), my place (17th of about 112 or so starters) and the overall experience, I do wish I had paced myself better. I'm sure that if I'd held back just a bit on day 1, I'd have done much better for the second half of days 2 and 3. The word 'conservative' just isn't in my vocabulary. I have a lot of admiration for those triplers who managed to have consistent times for all three runs. A few even got faster each day.

The best of the Tahoe Triple:

-Having a crew. This made me feel like I was part of a team. Great fun.
-The camaraderie. All of the competitors got to know each other very well during this shared experience. Pat from Toledo, Bill the Kiwi, Gene from Erie, the Mexican guys, even former 4-time winner Sean all seem like good friends now. I look forward to bumping into some of them again some day.
-The scenery, of course.
-The difficulty. If it had been easy, anyone could've done it.

In need of improvement:

-Traffic control. We knew this would be a problem for days 1 and 2, and it was. Something needs to be done.
-Organization. The race directors need to get their processes under control.
-Cost. It was well over $200. I did get three shirts (a wind shirt for the regular thon, and a tank top and sweatshirt for the triple), as well as a nice plaque. I also got a good buffet dinner and the bus rides out to the start. But it still seemed like a lot of moola.

Those are fairly minor quibbles. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I'll count this among my proudest and most enjoyable running experiences. I probably won't do this again, but I may be a bit less afraid to try other new challenges.

2005 California Trip

Friday, September 30, 2005

Yikes. The closer we got to hour hotel, the closer we got to the wildfires of Burbank. We had been traveling all day, and had somehow navigated our way from LAX to our home away from home. Since it was dark already, we could see the flames as we drove, and we couldn't help but notice that we were headed right for them. The "Hill of Flames" was seemingly just a mile or so away from the Courtyard, and we stood and watched as we got out of the car. Everyone else assured me that we were safe. Yeah right.

Dana and Todd guided us to Hollywood and Highland, where we ate at the expensive-but-very-good Grill on the Alley. Then we walked along the Stars Walk of Fame and over to Grauman's Chinese Theater - the place with the hand-prints.

Got back at 1am. I had been up for 23 hours and 30 minutes.



Saturday, October 1, 2005

Another touristy day in Southern California. Leaving the wildfires behind, we started out by visiting Dana and Todd's pad and meeting Sam, their charming turtle. Feeding time for Sam was exciting to watch. Going to brunch at Dana and Todd's favorite place (Chez Noir) was quite an experience. What a great place. Best croissants I've ever had. By far.

The touristy stuff started when we got to Universal Studios and paid our $53 per person to get in. We took the studio tram tour, and went to several of the attractions. The best was the T2 in 3D show. Also interesting was the Waterworld show. The special effects for these two were especially impressive.

Dana and Todd had to split and head to a work function for Dana. After some amount of trouble figuring out where to eat in the shopping/tourist area outside the park, we wound up at Gladstone's Seafood. Like all the food we've tasted, it was very good, and fairly expensive. Carol got a bit of shopping done, but we got home at a decent hour.


Sunday, October 2, 2005

"Make the fun stop!!" That's what our friends Dot and Greg say when they're having too much fun and can't take it anymore. That's the situation here in Southern California.

Todd wasn't feeling well, so just Dana came with us as our personal in-the-car tour guide to the beaches. We drove up the Pacific Coast Highway (the PCH) and various other roads through Topanga and on to Malibu. There we lounged on the beach for a couple hours whilst gathering dead, washed-ashore lobsters and other flotsam, flying an alien kite, exploring tide pools and making about 6 throws of a frisbee. It was only in the upper 60s, but it felt nice. Then we ate at Paradise Cove, which is right there on the beach.

After dinner we drove to the Santa Monica Pier to shop, people watch, and sunset watch. It reminded me of Navy Pier - there was plenty to do, and the sunset was really neat. Debbie and I had to explain to everyone about the "green flash". Some of us claimed to see it.

Tomorrow it's on to Yosemite!


Monday, October 3, 2005

We ate breakfast at the oldest remaining Bob's Big Boy. I keep wondering if there are older Big Boys with other names, such as Manners? It took only about 4 1/2 hours to reach the Apple Tree Inn in Fish Camp, just south of Yosemite. Wonderful place. We have 3-unit cottages in the woods with heat only from fireplaces. Very rustic.

Dave and I refused to give up. First Carol, then Debbie (to ride the tram with her - they enjoyed it but they froze), then Todd and finally Dana turned back. But we men-folk kept going to the top. Top of what, you ask? The sequoia grove and museum, which was about 1,100 feet up a long uphill trail. Too bad the museum was closed. We did enjoy the walk, and all the Big Trees. The joy is in the journey. Took the two of us over 2 hours to head up, but less than a half-hour to come down. And we somehow beat Todd - he had managed to get lost and come straggling in later.

Dinner was at an informal but good Mexican place: El Cid.


Tuesday, October 4, 2005

After our continental hotel breakfast, we drove the couple miles back to the park, and went right up to Glacier Point. Fantastic vistas of the valley far below. I may have my numbers wrong, but I believe that we were at about 7,500 feet looking down at the 4,000 foot valley floor.

After lunch we drove into the valley. Stopped at a neat walking bridge and skipped some rocks whilst gaping at the rocks above us on both sides.

Yosemite Falls was dried up for the year. Instead of hiking to them we watched a video at the nature center.

Tuesday night we walked over for an expensive dinner at the Tenaya Lodge. Nice place with good, but costly food. Due to those big bucks, Dave and I had to give up the $50 bill we had been passing back and forth to pay for dinners.


Wednesday, October 5, 2005

Another driving day. It took us about as long to get from Yosemite to Tahoe as it did from LA to Yosemite. Too many mountains in the way. It was a beautiful trip though. We got to see parts of Yosemite that we hadn't yet been though. Stopped near Mono lake for lunch.

There was a disorganized meeting for the Tahoe Triple at the Horizon Resort and Casino that evening. The best part was the buffet dinner - it was excellent. Dave and Carol hit the slots afterwards. And not for the last time, either.

Today's Run - 2005-10-02

We're here in Burbank, and I decided to do the run on the hotel dreadmill because I was afraid of the smoke from the nearby wildfires being bad for my lungs. Turned out that it wasn't so bad now, but I stuck to the mill anyway. Wound up with some decent quality:

10 Miles in 69.5 minutes including a 5-mile MP and a 3-mile tempo. The 5 was in 34:16, and the 3 was in 19:49. 1% elevation. 2100 09-05 shoes. Not too bad, but some holding on.

Nice to swim in the pool afterwards.