Friends have shared these two articles with me recently that I wanted to pass along. Since I still have zero energy and my brain cells seem to be dying by the day here as I sit here and try to get better … I’m not going to analyze them but rather just share them, verbatim. I’d love to know what you think, though!!

The first, courtesy of Allison, is “Training the Mind to Run Right Through Winter.”
-The premise here is that while some people stop their exercise routines in cold weather, there are also people who continue to push through. I know I tend to prefer indoor workouts when it’s really cold out, but then when it’s a nice-ish winter day, I love to squeeze in a bike ride, run or walk–it can feel invigorating. I don’t mind the cold, so much as snow/ice. How about you? Do you run or exercise outdoors regardless of the weather?

The second, courtesy of Yasmin, is “Why Exercise Doesn’t Lead to Weight Loss.”
-The premise here is that exercising can help with maintenance but doesn’t necessarily boost weight loss. I agree with that assessment; I know eating less is really what helped me lose weight and that if I didn’t work out the way I do (when healthy and not with H1N1, that is) I’d probably have gained it ALL back vs. just some of it. How about you? Do you think exercise helped you lose or maintain better?

Thanks, girls, for your contributions. How did you know these would come in handy?

New Balance MT100, REI Trail Running Gaiters

It was a perfect Minnesota fall morning for trail running.  A light rain the previous night had dampend the ground and all of the leaves have left the trees.  The trails in Theo Wirth Park are fairly well used, so they are mostly hard pack dirt.  The mountain bike single-track trails are a blast and make up the majority of the trail mileage.  The cross-country skiing trails are much more challenging as far as the hills go, but are set up for groomed skiing so they are wide and well maintained (boring?).

The conditions proved a great testing ground for my new trail runners: the New Balance MT100s.  We covered a great combination of ground conditions, mud, sand, hard-pack, grass, and blacktop.  The only surface where I noticeably lost my footing was on wet leaves, but spikes are the only thing that will beat a layer of slick leaves.  The low nubs (see pic in previous post) provide ample traction in all directions.  In fact the heel seems to be designed perfectly for braking or controlling descents.

The biggest thing about these shoes is their low profile and minimalist feel.  They feel like a set of cross country flats with a (very) slightly more developed heel.  The low heel provides outstanding control and stability, minimizing the risk of the dreaded ankle roll.  (Just say no to high heels! -I’m talking about running shoes.)  If you are a heavy heel striker, these probably won’t work for you; the NB MT100s are designed for the mid to forfoot striker.

The forefoot of the shoe contains a flexible plastic plate “RockStop” designed to prevent stone bruses, etc.  It certainly performed that well.  In fact, that was probably the biggest thing separating these from a set of cross country flats.  It does prevent some of the trail feel that purists may desire, but the protection may be worth it.  Personally, I hope it breaks in and softens up a bit.

My last set of trail shoes were a water-resistant fabric, so the first puddle that I stepped in surprised me when my foot immediately felt cold and wet.  But the shoes were dry (enough) by the next time I thought about it.  I’m still weighing the water-resistant vs quick dry attributes.

Overall, I’m really happy with the MT100s.  I’m excited to get them really dirty at the Living History Farms Cross Country Race this weekend.

Sorry for the long post, but if you made it this far, you might be interested in the other component of the test run:  the REI Trail Running Gaiters.  Now this is probably over the line of necessary running accessories, but something I thought could be a worth while addition.  My wife likes to call them leg warmers.  Another friend offered to knit me a set of leg warmers.

Anyway, nothing sucks more than a handful of sand, twigs, bugs, snow, grit, tears of loneliness, and other such debris of the trail getting in to your shoe in the midst of a beautiful or competitive trail run.  So I have decided to employ a set of gaiters.

It came down to the Inov8 Debris Gaiter and the REI Trail Running Gaiter.  I chose the REI gaiter for versatility and availablity.  I can also use these while winter hiking to keep snow out of my boots, and they were sold at my local REI.  Depending on the weather, I may pick up a set of the Inov8s for my ultra in February.

The REI gaiters are made of a softshell material that is very flexible and feels great against the skin.  One of my concerns was that this would be irritating on my legs when worn for a long period.  I don’t have any concerns about it now; the material is quite soft and compliant.  They are water restant and breateable, but I think they would be a little too hot in the summer.  I imagine these are going to be awesome in the winter, keeping the Minnesota snow out and the heat in.

Wow, I let this one get a little long.  Thanks for those who stuck around to the end.  Let me know your thoughts.

Timex Run, the most expensive sub-marathon road race in the Philippines thus far not only set the race registration fee higher, but also introduced a lot of new PRs.

PR = Piolo + Rio

One of the possible reasons that the race became a huge success despite the steep price was due to the celebrity factor—Piolo Pascual.  He is undoubtedly one of the most popular television and movie actor in the country and apparently tapping on his huge fan base was a great idea.  Of course we can’t say that the Rio dela Cruz factor didn’t have an added effect on the race’s success, I mean who can’t resist the charm of an afro?  Who knows better how to organize a running event but a runner himself?  (Peace Coach Rio!  I really admire your hair).

PR = Posh Race

Timex Run is definitely at a different caliber as it’s one of the few races in the Philippines that utilize timing chips.  It also has one of the better race singlets with Timex Ironman mark at the back which I really love.  Celebrities also dot the course of various events making this a very star-studded race.

The grand start gate of Timex Run

PR = Pretty Route

Timex Run’s main event, 21K, went to places no other races went before, literally, making this a discovery race for many who haven’t been to the unpopular running areas of Bonifacio Global City.  Even familiar routes were given an interesting twist keeping the event fresh to seasoned BGC runners.  But more than a pretty route, the distance was almost GPS-exact 21K so taking into consideration the topography of the route it’s more than valid for those distance-conscious runners.  Even the distance markers were freakishly accurate by Garmin standards for most of the time.

Sunrise at Rizal Drive

PR = Pace Required

For the nth time I was again a pacer, an optional one.  It was a pretty loose pace—just aiming to finish in a decent time so it was for the most part an easy duty.  Because of the relaxed attitude I was able to take some pictures in-race making this also a “picture race.”

Along 5th Avenue

The 21K leader

Entering Heritage Park

PR = Postmortem Report

Timex Run was easily one of the best races for 2009, period.  Despite the higher registration fee the cost was pretty much worth it because of a very good quality event, a lot of giveaways, excellent activity area, a finisher’s shirt and medal, all while still able to generate funds for charity.  Indeed Timex had proven that with the right pizzazz cost may not be a barrier to having a well attended event.  It was also another proof that celebrities really make good endorsers, especially here in the Philippines.  I just hope this isn’t the start of more expensive races, but instead the start of quality races.  Congratulations Runrio for consistently delivering excellent and successful events!

The nice but generic finisher’s medal

PR = (Personal Record)

I’ve seen a lot of PRs with this race and as for my Personal Record (PR) I also set a new one, a negative one as I set the longest 21K race so far surpassing the two hour 20 minute mark, but it was worth it as I bore witness to another 21K dream turn into reality.  Congratulations Carol!

PR = Pros + Rejects

Pros:

• Good quality race singlet
• Timing chips
• Punctual start
• Excellent route
• The longest water station yet seen in local races (that never ran out of water and even supplied 100 Plus)
• Practical placement of timing chip sensors
• Excellent finisher’s shirt
• Huge and heavy (although generic) finisher’s medal
• Finisher’s certificate
• Free breakfast
• Excellent goodie bag with products from sponsors
• Lively activity area
• Same day accurate race result (unseen for quite a while)
• Part of the proceeds went to charity
• Very Good race (4/5)

Rejects:

• High registration fee
• Lack of cones at some areas
• Lack of marshals after 8:30AM (three hours and 15 minutes 21K gun start)
• Medals could’ve been more customized to reflect which event it was given
• No fancy presentation of race results

Timex Run 21K Route

PR = Pacquiao Reloaded

As a bonus perk to everyone Timex was kind enough to provide everyone free viewing of Manny Pacquiao’s match versus Miguel Cotto live via satellite from Las Vegas, USA.  We were so lucky to have witnessed history being made by now seven-time world champion, Manny Pacquiao.  Thank you Timex and congratulations Manny!  He’s definitely the best boxer our generation has ever seen.

I would like to thank Doc Art who made it possible for me to join this race.  Thank you very much Doc and congratulations!

So its getting to be that time of year when the days begin to get short, and my motivation begins to dwindle with the lack of sunlight. Almost a month away from the shortest day of the year, I’ve been searching for something to keep me motivated. I’m sure other runners are having this problem, so I’ve compiled this list. Here we go

1. Sign up for a race.
I’ve found that if I’m training, I can’t quit. If I sign up, I have money on it, and who wants to take $$ and throw it away? NOT me.

2. Tell people you signed up for a race.
When I ran a marathon a year ago, I made sure I told everyone. That way, I couldn’t quit, and I was being held “liable” for my training. Not only was I held liable, I was also motivated. People would ask me how my training was going, and give me support. Can’t say that hurts

3. Mornings are often best.
I find that the mornings are the best times for me. I feel awakened post morning run, almost on a high. Not to mention that I  feel great the rest of the day. The best way to stay motivated is to keep remembering why you’re doing it, why you’re running. Be it fitness, training, weight loss, keep repeating the mantra in your head.

4. Run for the dog.
Get Fido in the fun too…take your dog for a run,  because if you have your dog depending on you for  exercise, you just can’t quit.  Look at that puppy face

5.  Ice Cream
If you run, just think, no guilt in eating that ice cream in the freezer, or those cookies! Enough said

6. Find a running buddy.
Get a partner and go for a run. Running buddies are great for helping motivate you. Its unlikely that you’ll be unmotivated on the same day, so you can feed off each others’ energy. OR, you could find a local running group. I’ve had great luck with this, and met some really cool people in the process. Plus, running groups may expose you to new routes that you’ve never ran before and get you to parts of the city that you’ve never seen

My running buddy for the Fox Cities Marathon!

This is part one of my motivation posts. I’m making these lists on my blog, not only for other runners feeling the winter blues, but also for my own benefit so I can also remember why I need to stay on my game. Happy running people. I’ll be back up and at ‘em on the blog tomorrow!

How do you guys stay motivated? Do share!

A fierce wind blew in from the north last night, and at 4:28 a.m., I knew that the noise was not going to let me sleep again. So I fired up my laptop and spent some time surfing food blogs until I heard the coffeemaker click on at 5:45.  Time to get up!

I started the day just a little tired, but I did decide what recipes I am going to use over Thanksgiving and during the 10 days my in-laws will be visiting. And I even got started on the baking today, as I decided I wasn’t up to running in the wind this morning (and lest you think me a wimp, winds at 25 miles an hour are a bit much for a recently-restarted runner such as I…)

By the time my gym session rolled around, I was more than ready for it. True, I had been on my feet most of the day, but standing doesn’t exactly expend a lot of energy, and I was ready for something a little more strenuous. Luckily, Mike had a fun workout on tap, and afterward I got on a treadmill and ran 2 miles. A little stretching afterward, and I was good to go.

In the gym, with Mike:

Time: 5:30

Partners: Jae and Barry

Chest & Back:

Kettlebell Swings: 20 lbs. x 20; 20 lbs. x 20; 20 lbs. x 20

supersetted with

Dumbbell Press: 15 lbs. x 15; 20 lbs. x 12; 25 lbs. x 10

followed by

Dumbbell Press Drop Set: 30 lbs. x 8/15 lbs. x 12

Olympic Bar Bent Row: 35 lbs. x 15; 45 lbs. x 12; 50 lbs. x 10; 55 lbs. x 10

supersetted with

Side Planks (per side): 15 reps.; 15 reps.; 15 reps.; 15 reps.

Incline Smith Machine Bench Press: bar + 10 (55 lbs.) x 10; 65 x 10; 75 x 10

Nautilus Nitro Row: 65 lbs. x 15; 80 lbs. x 10; 90 lbs. x 10

Treadmill Run:

2 miles @ 5.8 mph; 21 minutes + 4 minute cooldown @ 3.5 mph. Total time: 25 minutes

followed by:

Hip/Glute Stretches; Standing Calf Stretches; Lying Hamstring Stretches with rope; Seated Twists; Standing Forward Bend.

]]> http://kevinmfitzpatrick.wordpress.com/2009/11/17/running/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 03:02:41 +0000 kevinmfitzpatrick http://kevinmfitzpatrick.wordpress.com/2009/11/17/running/

I’m running a marathon, well we are – my lady and I.  This one, its the Nashville Country Music Marathon and training just started, but fortunatly we’ve got until April to get there, we got through 7 miles last weekend and three more last night.  As far as footwear goes, I’m still wearing the same shoes I wore for the Atlanta Half but I’m torn between getting a new pair of fresh kicks or going barefoot. If I dare it.

I’ve always been interested in the training details of others, whether it be weekly mileage, pace, specific workouts, etc. So, I’ve decided to add a weekly recap to each week of my training. I’ll cover the basics, but I hope to provide some insight into what I’ve found to work and why. Hopefully, you can get something out of the posts. If you want something specific to be discussed, just let me know!

I’ll apologize now because the next few weeks will be much lower mileage than normal, but I promise it will get better. I averaged 50 miles a week for the first nine months of the year and I’m hoping to get back to that level by the end of the year. Anyway, here are the details from last week:

Monday, 11/09
Rest

Tuesday, 11/10
Rest – My wife is a hair stylist and the salon she works at has a massage therapist. So, she was able to get me an appointment to try to do some work on my hamstring and see if it loosens up. I blogged about it here, so I’ll spare you the details again. Basically, she released a pretty big knot and my leg felt great afterwards.

Wednesday, 11/11
4 miles at 7:34 pace. After Wednesday’s massage, I decided to give the legs a try with an early morning run. They felt good, but I wanted to keep it short.

Thursday, 11/12
2 miles at 8:00 pace. This was a lunch time run on the treadmill at work. It had been almost three weeks since I had back-to-back runs, so I just wanted to see how the legs felt. I could still feel the tightness during the run, but it wasn’t anything too bad.

Friday, 11/13
6 miles at 7:40 pace. An early morning run and it felt great to get out for a slightly longer run. The leg felt “ok”, as I didn’t have any pain, but I could still feel some slight tightness.

Saturday, 11/14
Rest

Sunday, 11/15
Rest

TOTAL: 12 miles

Evening pretty girls!

Today started off pretty blah due to my sour stomach issues, but it slowly but surely started to look up.  I’m not sure what caused my issues, but whatever, i’m just glad its over!

I forgot to photograph lunch, but don’t worry it was just salad

I got sucked into watchin reruns of Project Runway, somehow i can’t get my eyes off that show once i start watching!! So you know, its my dream to make it onto that show!  I can wish big right??

After i convinced myself that i needed to do something worthy with my day i decided that a run sounded like fun!  It was only about 50 degrees outside, sort of windy and not even that nice, but i new i wanted to get out there, even if it wasn’t that long.  So I pushed my booty off the couch and went and changed.  It felt good to put my shoes back onto my feet

I’ve only been out on a handful of runs since the big half marathon, which you can read about here.  The moment i stepped outside I was freezing, but i sucked it up and just started running.  I didn’t have a specific distance or anything i wanted to reach so i just went for it.  Because i’m a big baby, i ended up getting colder then i thought i would so i just went out for a short 2 mile run.

I felt amazing after.  Yes even though it was a rather short distance, i didn’t care.  From all the rest I have taken from running i feel such a difference with my legs.  I no longer have as much discomfort with my knees like i was experiencing in the past, i now realize how great it feels to run pain free!  I was feelin AWESOME.  Check out this shirt i wore today

During the election last year, at my work we were able to make shirts for the things we believed in, so i chose to vote for TRUE LOVE!  I thought it really fit! I wear this all the time and i smile each time because the message is just so comforting.  Someday i hope to find true love Sorry i’m gettin so sappy! hehe

Dinner tonight was the normal chicken dinner with veggie and salad.

Check out this clump of fresh garlic that was left on the salad bowl

Yea, you bet i put that on my plate and put it on a piece of bread and ate it right up!

I had date night with one of my best friends tonight.  We’ve been bf’s since high school and we’ve always been close.  I haven’t seen her though for a while, but its that type of friendship where even if we don’t talk or see eachother for a few weeks, the second we do its like we just saw eachother yesterday!  I love her so much, it was such a fun evening!  She even gave me a new brand of popcorn to try out tonight

Have you ever had this brand before??  Its endorsed by Weight Watchers and is only 1 point per serving.  I ate the entire bag and according to my friend it comes out to 2.5 points for the entire bag.  I’m the type of person who can’t just eat one serving of a bag of popcorn, never have never will.  What about you?? Can you have just one serving, or are you like me and have the whole bag??  I usually just have the 94% fat free popcorn but this was an awesome change and i really liked it!

To top off the evening, about 10 minutes ago I finished half off a banana that sissy didn’t finish from breakfast.

Well girls.  Jon and Kate is on, which i shouldnt even watch because its going to make my blood pressure rise, from all the ridiculousness of the whole show anymore, but because i’m addicted i must go watch!!!

GOODNIGHT!

3.1 miles in the 80 degree exercise room at the hotel. Asked the manager to turn the temp down so the sweat didn’t immediately turn to steam…

Unless you have been living under a rock, you know that cold and flu season has begun.    I am not an alarmist but I have school age children who are more susceptible to colds and flu so it’s important that I stay healthy and keep them healthy.

Here are some preventative measures you can take to stay healthy this season.

1.  Get a flu shot for both “regular” flu and the H1N1.

2.  Wash your hands.  Then wash them again.

3.  Stock up on bottles of hand sanitizer.  Keep them in your car, your purse, your kids’ backpack, on the kitchen counter.  The ones with alcohol are more effective so if you have little ones, watch they don’t lick their hands.   No joke!

4.  Act like a 3 year old and learn to sneeze or cough into your elbow.

5.  Remember Lysol?  Buy a few cans and spray on doorknobs, computer keys, telephone handsets and tv remotes.

6.  Maintain a healthy lifestyle.  This includes the holy trinity of getting enough sleep, eating well and exercising.

Now go run!

Keli

Make it easy to visualize myself crossing the finish line of a marathon. Make it easy to look forward to my half-marathon in just under 4 weeks. I got that. No problem.

Runs like today…remind me of why I run. Going into it I didn’t know what to expect. Today I felt really stressed out. Pretty much from the moment I got up this morning but I knew that could fuel my run…or hamper it.

I was tired at the end of the day but I was not going to miss my run. In fact, it has really become habit. I don’t even look for excuses not to go anymore. I know I’m going…and I go.

I got to the park, set-up the iPod…got a good laugh at myself when the music came through the headphones and startled me – really?  like I didn’t expect that when I hit play…so highstrung today…but that laugh broke my level of tension and I got started with a smile on my face. I left the MAJOR issues we’re having at work…behind. I left all the emotional crap I’m dealing with right now…behind. And I just ran.

I focused on me. I focused on visualizing crossing the finish line in February. And I just ran…

It felt good. I didn’t struggle. I maintained a good pace. I wasn’t checking my time every few minutes (which I tend to do when I’m struggling). In fact, I didn’t check it at all during the run.

I ran 4.8 miles in the 60 minutes (50 minute run, 5-minute warm-up/cool down). My pace was 11:24. I took one walk break at the halfway point.  And frankly, I was having to force myself to walk.  I just wanted to run but I have learned from experience that taking that one small break helps me hold my pace through the last half of the run…so I walked and anxiously waited for go time again.  Last Monday, when I did the same run…I did 4.25 miles with a pace of 11:52.

That kind of improvement was SWEET!! It was empowering and encouraging. And honestly I didn’t want to stop running when the run was over. Never thought I would say that… But I really didn’t. I could have kept going.

But I did stop. One it was dark and running the path around the lake was becoming a bit of a challenge…and dangerous.  I almost fell once as it was.  Apparently our tax dollars in this state do not buy lightbulbs.  There were several places along the path where the light was out.  Not good if it’s dark.  And also because I know this is just day one of the week. I’ve got a long run on Saturday so need to make sure the legs are ready for that. Right now my legs and butt are a little sore but not bad…what you would expect after a good run. 

Tomorrow is a cross-training day and I’m planning to hit my new favorite workout…spin class.  LOVE it!! Whether I go at 5:30 am or 5:45 pm will be determined by what time I get in the bed.  I’m hoping to go to bed early and go to the morning class…BUT there is a new episode of Million Dollar Listing (MDL) on tonight. I have it set to DVR and can watch it later I know.  But tonight we find out if Josh is facing cancer…which is what they’ve alluded to in the previews.  He probably has a hangnail…LOL!!  But what if he is facing cancer?  I don’t know that I can wait until tomorrow to find out.  I love my MDL boys!  We shall see…

Either way I’ll get in a spin class in tomorrow.  Then my speed work on Wednesday and I’m leaning towards making Thursday a rest day.  Not because I’m lazy but it may make sense to take a rest break before that long run.  I’m still planning to hit the spin class on Friday so the legs may deserve a little rest this week.  And on Friday I will to go to the morning spin class because we’re having ladies night after work on Friday.  Me, Tink19 and another friend from work are having dinner at Olive Garden. 

This is a tradition for Tink19 and I.  We go every year at this time to indulge in the pumpkin cheesecake they have for the holiday season.  It is soooo YUMMY!!!  I’m looking forward to it.  Of course…maybe I should run on Thursday to burn a few extra calories…LOL!! We will see as we go along. But we have started the week on a high-note…let’s hope we end it that way.  Until next time, hope you’re hitting the high notes.

What can I say? Another the running life of… that requires no introduction. We have ironed out all copyright issues, so I am pleased to announce that this week is the running life of…Mark Armstrong. Brace youselves…

The following is a transcript of a conversation I had with Oprah Winfrey the last time she got down on her knees and begged me for an interview. Tom Cruise appeared after me. He spotted me jumping up and down on the couch in the green room demonstrating my amazing dexterity and stole it for his bit. Next time he invites me to one of his parties, I`m not going.

OW: Were you always an amazingly gifted athlete with a huge humanitarian streak and a Fabio hairstyle?

MA: Oh stop it! I changed my hair years ago!

To tell the truth, I always had the ability to run for extended periods of time. Not super-fast, but fast. I would get beaten pretty bad in the 100, but any farther and I could hold my own. I grew up on an air force base and played soccer from the age of five until high school. I could sneak the ball up the right side of the field (I was a right winger) pretty darn well and scored a few goals…Scoring in high school was a bit more difficult.  I credit my running ability to my mother`s side of the family. She was a great high school runner, winning many competitions. I also credit my knack for not thinking too much. Ever. Especially when I am running. 

OW: How did you get your start in running, handsome?

MA: Please Oprah, we have been down this road before and I am happily married, OK? The first time I ever ran any distance was when I was visiting a friend in Calgary; he had just joined an upscale health club with a running track. He thought he could run farther and longer than me…he was wrong. (audience cheers as Mark gives the thumbs-up sign) I do not remember how long we ran, likely no more than an hour, but it felt like forever! I know I couldn`t walk properly for some time after. It`s funny, I spent many years racing motocross and running just did not seem very exciting. As I got older and more fragile, though, falling off a dirt bike became something I did not want to do. I fell off a lot! Broke an arm, lots of gashes…

Shortly after Cheryl and I got married, we joined the YMCA. The trainers set up a plan for us that involved using the various machines. You know the drill. Within a couple of weeks I was spending the whole exercise session on the track. I like the simplicity of running; one foot in front of the other, and yet, it is so much more than that. After a couple of months, I signed up for a 10K class through the Y.  It was March 2002. I’ll never forget how shocked I was to find out we were going to run outside. In the cold. In the snow. After the class ended, I entered a 10K race and have been at it ever since…except for some hiccups here and there due to injury. 

OW: A two part question. Has Armani chosen you for their new spokesperson and did you and Karl Lagerfeld have a big dust-up at a show in Milan?

MA: Next question.

OW: OK then, tell me about your spread in Runner’s World?

MA: You know how humble I am, Oprah, but they just kept hounding me. They were relentless. Finally, I thought, “We’ll, if that’s what the public wants…” I wasn’t my usual buff self when we shot the cover but it was the only time I could find in my crazy schedule to fit the shoot in.

OW: The magazine quoted you as saying you did not enjoy your first marathon. Is that true? What happened?

MA: It was June 22, 2003 – Race the Twilight Marathon. Some adman decided the marathon should start at 5:00 p.m. Stupid. Plain stupid. Anyway, I had no idea what I was getting myself into and what I was going to experience. I mean, I really thought it was going to be a cake walk! I felt great, even chatty, until 30K. Then the gels took effect in a bad way. Not only did I become instantly fatigued, but I also felt extremely ill. After I finished the race, I spent two+ hours getting intimate with a toilet in the Butterdome. I was in severe distress.  In retrospect, two good things came out of that day: it was my first encounter with the infamous, straw-toting AJ Rankel, and my finish time was fairly respectable at 3:03.26.

OW: I’ve been hearing rumors about you and a fellow named Jonathan Withey. I understand you and he spend a lot of time together.

MA: Our pets share a similar disorder. You could say we are a two man support group. 

OW: Every mega superstar has his share of setbacks. At Boston in 2006 you fractured your femoral neck and didn’t run for over a year. That must have been so painful – mentally and physically.

MA: I don’t want to sound super-human or anything, but no other human being could have withstood the pain I endured. If I believed in god, I would thank him for moving the pavement underneath my feet for twenty miles. But, since there is no god, it was all me, baby. Pure guts. I ended that race in a wheel chair and didn’t leave it for a week. I didn’t race again for a year, and didn’t return to my previous fitness for two years. I do not wish a femoral neck stress fracture on anyone. That is, unless you’re drawn to the idea of endless video games and full-fat ice cream…

OW: Where is your running at today?

MA: I’ve agreed to be a psychological coach to Ryan Hall; it’s nice to help the up-and-comers. Personally, I hooked up with another elite marathoner, who is faster than me but not nearly as good looking. (laughs) Seriously, I`ve logged the best performances of my professional career this last year, with some substantial cash payouts. I feel great. I look great. I am great.

OW:  I love your confidence, Mark. No wonder you get those fabulous endorsements!

MA: Yeah, I`ve just signed with Axe body spray. Trust me, the commercials are real. The chicks say I`m phat.

OW:  You certainly are! We love you Mark Armstrong! Promise me you won`t be so shy and join me again soon!!!

(Mark gives Oprah air kisses and waves to the audience before they cut to commercial)

Sorry… I have a whole bunch of stuff just piling up lately it’s like my brain is being pulled in different directions! Here’s a running recap:

Last Thursday:

Run Time: 0:40:49

Total Time: 0:50:52

Approx Distance: 5.87 K

*********************************

Tonight’s Run:

Run Time: 0:50:ish

Total Time: 1:16:08

Approx Distance: 7.5K (!)

I am now sore, and exhausted, and am going to go a scarf down a grilled cheese and chicken Cesar salad and stretch it all out. I am anxious to see how my body feels tomorrow. I have never run so far without stopping ever! I could have done it faster, but it was my friend’s “slow” run of the week. I cannot believe my body can do that! I am well on my way to working towards 10K!

Have a great week!

Run 5 K

Post time to comments.

With the right attitude, anyone can run.

We just received the weather forecast for the next 10 days and winter is indeed on it’s way. A run in the morning means dealing with temps in the teens to twenties. Scroll on down for cold running gear ideas. The biggest challenge is preparing yourself mentally and physically for the cold weather.  Another challenge is preparing for some additional downtime as there is no doubt that the weather is going to interrupt some planned activities. The American Running Association has several suggestions for keeping your body and mind active for the coming winter.

• Check your gear
• If you can’t run a race, try volunteering to help out
• Read – anything. Keep your brain cells active!

Click on over for the full article.

Today at work we celebrated Thanksgiving.  Basically, our employer provided turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, mac and cheese and cornbread, and everyone else brought a side dish, drink, or dessert to share.  Last night I made brownie balls.

I was a little worried about navigating such a food feast, but set up a few “rules” for myself beforehand:

• Load up on turkey.  It’s hard to de-healthify plain white meat, and I love it.
• One small spoonful of the things I love.
• Don’t try things just to be polite.
• If you don’t like something, don’t keep eating it.
• Eat special holiday foods, not stuff you could have every day.
• Save room for dessert!

Here is what I wound up with:

Turkey, a small scoop of mashed potatoes and gravy, a slightly larger scoop of mac and cheese (it’s my favorite!), a scoop of something I think was stuffing but just tasted like salt and pepper so I stopped after a bite, a roll, and some fresh fruit.  (Veggies are absent because they were all swimming in cream soups, which I don’t find appealing.  I was hoping for a green salad, but no luck.)  The turkey was good, and so was the mac and cheese, but the rest was just okay.

Then I went back for dessert.  Instead of taking full servings of everything, I was that annoying co-worker who cuts pieces of things in quarters.  I had a quarter-slice of turtle cheesecake, a quarter-slice of regular cheesecake, a tiny scoop of pecan pie, and one of my brownie balls (I had to try them).

Was this a “diet meal”?  No.  Did I intend it to be?  No.  Did I follow the guidelines I set up for myself? Yes!  Did I eat mindfully and intuitively?  Yes!  So, go me.  I also didn’t need an afternoon snack after all of this like I usually do before the gym, so I skipped it, instead of eating it anyway.  I’ll chalk this up as a success.

In other news,  I am definitely feeling the burn from No More Trouble Zones so I wanted to do something more cardio-based today.  I love that my abs are feeling sore and ripped–core exercises bore me to tears, so I pretty much never do them on my own.  Also, my weird genetics dictates that I don’t really hold fat around my middle–it’s all in my thighs–so I don’t usually feel like that area needs to be worked since it stays relatively flat with relatively little work.   I really do need angry Jillian yelling at me to work that area, unfortunately, and she did not disappoint.

Unfortunately, after lunch my stomach started feeling nauseous…and crampy…and bloated.  But, I sucked it up and went to the gym anyway.  When I feel like going home instead of the gym, I just remind myself that I very rarely regret going to the gym, but I almost always regret skipping it.

So, I went and ran a 5K in about 30ish minutes.  I was still feeling gross at the end, so I didn’t go any farther, but I’m happy with what I did!

And, sadly, the blog-nouncement has to wait just a little longer.  Sorry guys!  Hopefully it’ll be within the next day or two!

What are your favorite holiday meal eating strategies?

Sorry I’ve been away for the past couple days; my wife and I flew up to San Francisco to spend her birthday weekend—why is it that girls get a whole weekend?—in the Bay Area. We saw old friends, spent time with her family strolling through Berkeley, and ate some amazing food—crab and garlic noodles at PPQ Dungeness Island; Peruvian rotisserie chicken and tapas at Limon Rotisserie; thin-crust style pizza and beer at Pizzeria Delfina. Despite the festivities, I also needed to do a 12 mile run (which would also make me feel less guilty about stuffing my face!).

I spent some time researching a good route to run in The City that could encompass 12 miles. My friend Susan, who lives in Oakland, had a co-worker recommend the route from the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero to the Golden Gate. Turns out, it was just about 12 miles, fairly flat, very pretty, and had a Farmer’s Market where Susan and Chelsee (my wife) could hang out and wait for my return. I checked it out on a map and decided to go for it.

The day started a bit gloomy, as many days in November do in the Bay Area. I was worried about warmth as I still only have summer running gear, but did pack my long sleeve running shirt. When we hopped onto the BART in Oakland, though, the clouds had started to part and a bit of sun peeked through. By the time we arrived to the Embarcadero, the sun was fully out and the day was looking up.

We got to the Farmer’s Market and Chelsee and Susan went off to explore. I was a bit hesitant as to how I would handle my longest run ever on my own and without the comfort of my other Roadrunners, but there was no turning back. And so, I was off.

Turns out, it was the best run of my short running career. There must of been a bit of an adrenaline rush, because as my feet were hitting the pavement, I felt stronger and more powerful than I had ever before. I think the prospect of seeing my favorite city in the world (well, maybe after Paris) in such a unique way had me energized. To see these sights that I had seen before in this way, on foot, made them feel brand new, like I was blazing a trail through uncharted territory.

I mean, who knew that I—a person who hated running less than two years ago—could use only my body to explore one whole area of San Francisco? To start at the Ferry Building—

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with the sights and smells of it’s Saturday Farmer’s Market—

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and run past the Transamerica Building,—

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Coit Tower,—

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Pier 39,—

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Ghiradelli Square,—

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Fort Mason—

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and it’s incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge,—

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through the Marina,—

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past Alcatraz,—

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through Crissy Field,—

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all the while watching the giant red icon get closer and closer and closer until,—

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I was finally directly underneath it…

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was transcendent. I felt like a spirit seeing the city for the first time. Much like how I felt when I did my first run to the Pacific Ocean, there was a unique sense of power that I’ve never had before. I mean, I just freakin’ ran to the Golden Gate Bridge!

—

Distance: 11.62 miles
Time: 94:43
Pace: 8:10 mile

I’m figuring out that running these new routes is having an added emotional and spiritual effect, as well. While my daily training runs around my neighborhood are more of a grind, these longer runs where I explore new areas and see cities in a new way feel like they go by way too fast. As Susan, Chelsee, and I sat on the BART to return to Oakland, I thought about how I felt like I could run for another two hours. And I guess that’s a good thing, since the marathon will require it!

—
P.S. The route I ran—from the Ferry Building to the Golden Gate Bridge—is the first quarter of the San Francisco Marathon on July 25th. Hint hint…

How does it make you feel when you try to hide your weight with clothes like I'm doing here?

So here we are: Day One of my quest to lose 50 pounds in 150 days. My goal is to drop from 199 to 149 by April 15, 2010. Ambitious? Probably. But without ambition, where would we all be?

I’ve wrestled with putting myself out there like that. What woman wants the world to know her secrets (weight, age…)?? But as the saying goes, the truth will set you free. Shame is a powerful detriment to progress, and I’ve lived with enough shame to last a lifetime. So off with the cloak of shame! On with the mink coat (sorry, fur haters) of being better to myself.

In my high school days, I weighed 135. Being 5 feet 9 inches tall, that was pretty darn slim. I don’t feel the need to be stick-skinny, but I DO feel the need to be able to sit comfortably (read: without my stomach overflowing my jeans like a too-full bowl of oatmeal overcooking in the microwave). And, I feel the need to feel better about ME.

Although my plan was to start a walking/running and strength training regimen (and I will do that on days they’re needed), I was blessed today with the opportunity to feed horses and muck stalls (18 of them—if you’re not a horse person, you might not believe how much a draft horse can poop in 24 hours!) for a friend. Three sweaty hours later I emerged from the barn with enough hay stuck in my hair and clothes to audition as the Wizard of Oz scarecrow. But I felt absolutely energized and ready to face the day.

Do you have a fitness and/or weight loss goal? Would you like to join me on my journey? Feel free to subscribe to this blog on the right. And feel free to comment and offer feedback and suggestions. Together we can uplift and edify one another. Together we can encourage each other. And together we can reach our goals, whatever they are. So grab onto the conga line!

Milestones moments. I think I just had one.

Think about those times in your life when you prepared yourself and worked towards a goal. The goal has not been achieved yet, but it’s in sight.

When my daughters walked forward to get their high school diplomas, I knew they hadn’t “arrived”. It was like my own high school graduation. There were many more milestones to come. They might even (perish the thought) stumble before the next milestone. But there is a sense that someone (in this case, the school district) is saying: “You’re ready!”

Many couples stand before the minister or magistrate and declare their intent for a life-long marriage commitment. If the pastor or priest has done their job right, they have spoken with the couple and assessed their seriousness of intent and ability to commit. Although many marriages end in divorce or unhappiness, that promise, sealed with a kiss, is an affirmation: “You’re ready!”

Maybe it’s the driver’s test or the training certification.  Perhaps it is as humble as the food handler’s license. No guarantee of success, but someone has basically said it: “You’re ready!”

I just completed another 20 mile run over the weekend, leading up to a marathon on December 6. And sent my times and heart rates to my coach.

My goal this time is as clear as I can make it: to qualify for the Boston Marathon. This requires me to run 26.2 miles in under three hours and thirty minutes.

After looking at the weekend’s numbers, and using my latest aerobic testing results, my coach’s mail said those two magic words: “You’re ready!”

So much could go wrong in the next three weeks. I could get a serious injury or an illness. On the day of the race, I could have a gastric problem or the weather could turn nasty. (Or the darn Boston Marathon could fill up, I suppose). No guarantees. But at least, I’m ready.

My day started really early at 6am, YAWN, actually I woke up about 15 minutes before my alarm went off because I was excited about the events to come………=)

I quietly got out of bed in hopes of not waking my sleeping husband and headed to “empty” my daughter’s room, except for the dog who was sound asleep, and started to get ready.   

My Race Attire!

While getting ready I downed my pre-race breakfast, which was a Blueberry Cliff Bar, 1/2 a banana and a glass of water.

Pre-Race Breakfast

Here I am in the bathroom mirror just before I headed out to the race!  =)

Cheese!!!

Despite my best efforts I arrived at the race just 15 minutes before it started, so I quickly dropped off my fellow co-worker/friends race packets to them by the Registration Table and then rushed over to the port-a-potties.  Of course, everyone else had the same idea and the lines were long……I was a bit worried I wouldn’t get my chance to go before the horn sounded but I did with just minutes to spare!

F.Y.I………………I saw Caitlin from Healthy Tipping Point (http://www.healthytippingpoint.com/) while waiting in line and really wanted to go say hello, she told me too if I saw her, however I was afraid of losing my spot in line so I couldn’t and didn’t see her again!  =(

My friends husband was able to snap a picture of us just before the race started, don’t we look excited!?!?!

Catrina, Lindsay & Me

Than……WE WERE OFF & RUNNING!!!

Here is a play-by-play of the race:

• The race started at 7:30am, though we did not cross the Start Line until about 30 seconds after the it started as we had to wait for all the people in front of us to go.
• As we approached the first turn we heard some music coming from a truck parked on the corner.  I cannot remember what was playing but it was great “mood lifting” music and helped us get into our groove. 
• About a 1/2 mile into the race we the music disappeared and we headed into the residential area of Celebration, Florida and ran than past their beautiful Golf Course & Country Club (my Brother & Sister-In-Law just happened to get married, 10+ years ago).
• Soon we settled into a good pace, about 11 minutes per mile give or take, which made it easy for us to talk while running.  A nice change from my usual “alone” runs, I swear the time just seemed to fly by this way….I really need to find a running partner!  =)
• At the 22 minute mark we hit Mile 2 and our 1st water station.  All I could think was “wow, we are at 2 miles already” and I was not tired at all yet!?!  Me & Catrina walked while we drank our little cup of water and Lindsay kept on running……..as she always does, GO LINDSAY.
• Once we caught up to her a about a minute later we headed through yet another beautiful neighborhood with some of the most adorable houses ever, oh would I love to live in any of the ones we passed.
• We ran, chatted, checked out the scenery and before you know it we were at Mile 4 and the clock said 45 minutes!  It was at that point that I realized we were making really good time and should cross the finish line quite a few minutes before I had expected too.  =) 
• That is when the 2nd and last water station arrived and we once again walked while we drank our water but back on the road running and caught up to Lindsay even quicker this time as we didn’t want to lose time.
• At this point we started to head out-of-town and back to Celebration Health (a.k.a. the Start & Finish Line of the race).  The views weren’t as nice, but we were still able to “chat” and were urged on by those watching the race, which helped as my left knee had begun to hurt at this point.
• Then I started to hear some music again and realized we were close to the Finish Line!  =)  We all tried to step up our pace a bit and as we passed the Mile 6 marker, Lindsay took off and me & Catrina stayed together.  I have a hard time sprinting at the end and could see Catrina was with me on that one.
• We passed the FINISH LINE at 1:08:54!  =)

However, check out the below for my exact statics:

So per the Chip Time we came in at 1:07:54 and ran at a 10:55.6 mile pace, which is faster than I was expecting to do so I was VERY HAPPY!!!  =)

After crossing the Finish Line I saw my mom & daughter on the other side and quickly headed their direction………unfortunatelly they did not see my coming and missed me crossing the Finish Line, but it was great to have them there!

All of us headed over to the post-race festivities and Lindsay got me a small carton of Chocolate Milk that she reminded me was great for “refueling” after a long race, so I quickly drank it up.

Lindsay, her husband & Catrina departed for home and then me, my mom & my daughter headed into town to visit the local Farmer’s Market that is there every Sunday and is really nice.

Celebration's Farmers Market

Then we grabbed a some brunch at a local dinner in town.  I had a breakfast burrito that had scrambled eggs and cheese inside a torita with pico, tomatoes and sour cream on the side (sorry no picture).

My mom headed home after brunch and my daughter & I went to the park for a bit and hit the swings, that is until I started feeling a little light headed and decided we should head home.

Once at home I took a nice long shower and then pretty much rested on the couch with my hubby for the rest of the day watching Mad Max & Mad Max II.  My knee did start to hurt more as the night went on so I tried to stay off it as much as possible. 

Around 4pm we had a late lunch/early dinner of homemade hamburger, fries & bean salad.

Late Lunch/Early Dinner

What an amazing day I had…….running better then expected in my 1st 10K, getting lots of quality time with my family & being able to relax for longer than an hour  or so for a change!!!  =)

________________________________________________________________________________

TIP OF THE DAY

Here are some reasons why chocolate milk is a great beverage for kids and adults, too. Chocolate milk is a sneaky beverage. How sneaky?

Let us count the ways:

1) Provides calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A, D and B12, riboflavin and niacin.

2) The 2005 Dietary Guidelines encourages the consumption of three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods each day for those 9 and older. Chocolate milk is an appealing beverage choice for children because of its great taste. (Adults, you’ll love the taste – and nutritional benefits – too!)

3) Research proves that children who drink flavored milk can increase milk and nutrient intake without increasing added sugar or total fat intake.

4) Intake of sugar may contribute to dental decay, but it is unlikely that flavored milk causes this condition. Flavored milk components including calcium, phosphorus and cocoa actually may prevent decay.

5) Flavored milk is a nutrient-rich product for schools and wellness policies and is the most popular milk choice among school children. Since most of the flavored milk consumed in schools is low-fat or fat-free, its presence may be helping children transition to consuming lower fat milk.

In 2010, I have set a personal goal to compete and complete a marathon (still picking which one to run). This will be my first marathon. I have competed and completed a half-marathon.

My Goal is to finish. But, there a few other things too.

But there is so much more to racing a marathon than just your finish time. I have to train myself in my long runs to maintain hydration levels. How about maintaining your blood and liver glycogen levels? No matter how well you have loaded up on carbohydrates, if my blood sugar levels drop. So, when setting goals for a marathon I should have two sets of goals, Results Based and Performance Based.

Both sets of goals should have clear measurable attributes to them so I know I have met them. I should also include contingency plans to ensure I can meet them should something happen on the course. A marathon mimics life so I need to feel comfortable changing my goals at any time when the situation warrants it.

Mental Strategies Helpful for Marathon Training
Of all the distance running events, the marathon presents the greatest challenges both physically and mentally. Even after completing all the required training and making it to the race site rested and healthy, arriving at the starting line in less than the ideal state of mind can have a devastating effect on your performance. Let’s discuss a variety of mental strategies that will enable you to set realistic goals, complete the necessary training (in particular, the long runs), and be optimally prepared mentally for the challenges that await you in completing the marathon.

Please be familiar with the following terminology (described with positive outcomes), as each will be mentioned later in this section: mental rehearsal / visualization (the process of creating pictures or images in your mind), imagery (playing out/imagining in your mind the way you wish for an event to occur), self-talk (the “voice” in your head that can be trained to provide positive affirmations during adversity and tough times).

Before you begin
There are certain “prerequisites” or internal characteristic that a runner must possess in order to undertake the necessary training that the marathon requires. These include motivation, self-discipline, and effective time-management, all of which are inter-related characteristics. A coach can be enthusiastic about the training program he or she designs/presents and show interest in the runner’s development; however, motivation and self-discipline must be developed primarily from within. The best marathon training program in the world will not enable a runner to make it to the finish line of a marathon if he or she isn’t internally motivated to undergo and complete the training and then finish the race. Similarly, it requires a great deal of self-discipline to complete the long training runs while at the same time, cope with other daily distractions and manage all the personal responsibilities daily living provides. This is why it is crucial that the runner who wishes to train for the marathon be an effective manager of time.

Short and long term goal setting
Let’s start with general goal setting considerations. For most first time marathoners, goal setting is simple: to finish the race! Nevertheless, regardless of your experience level and race aspirations, it is best to be as specific as possible when setting goals. Be sure to write the goals down, perhaps tell others about your goals, and set a time frame for achieving the goals. These strategies will enhance the possibility of achieving both your short-term objectives as well as your big goal. There are two basic types of goals: process goals and outcome goals. It is important to set short-term objectives (process goals) on your way to achieving the big goal (outcome goal). These are definitions and examples of process and outcome goals:

Process goals – These types of goals involve activities that focus on mastering the task and increasing one’s skill level (e.g., the knowledge and training needed to complete a marathon). Examples of process goals include: following the training schedule as closely as possible; improving your nutrition; reading as much as you can about the marathon; consulting with your coach on a regular basis; getting more sleep to be as rested as possible, etc. Outcome goals – These goals relate to the finished product or stated differently, goals you hope to accomplish in the marathon. Examples include: breaking 4 hours in the marathon; running the second half of the marathon faster than the first 13.1 miles; defeating a rival; running a personal best in the marathon.

Let’s talk now about marathon goal setting considerations. In the couple of weeks prior to the marathon, think about three (outcome) goals you would be interested in accomplishing for your marathon: (1) an easily obtainable goal, (2) a realistic yet moderately challenging goal, and (3) an ultimate goal. Determine a strategy to achieve the ultimate goal, but build into your plan flexibility to aim for less ambitious goals if things don’t pan out the way you had planned. Above all, be realistic. For example, if you don’t possess the genetic predisposition (natural ability) to run a sub-38 minute 10k, there is very little chance you can break three hours in the marathon, no matter how positive an attitude you possess!
Strategies for completing the training

Find a coach with the reputation for being both enthusiastic and positive. These traits can help inspire and motivate you.
Join a group or team whose members share your same goals. These individuals can provide you with the needed emotional support to succeed. Groups or a training partner can help make completing the long runs easier than doing these alone. It is essential to find training partners who run your approximate pace so that your workouts do not turn into races.
When doing your long runs, break the course into sections mentally. That is, mentally run from one landmark to the next instead of thinking of completing the entire 20-mile training course. When you reach the first landmark, then mentally think of running to the next and so forth.
Realize that the training will not always be easy. If running a marathon were simple, there would be no challenge as everyone would be able to do it. To enable you to cope with the physical and mental demands of completing the long training runs and the actual marathon when the going gets tough, there are several mental strategies you can utilize.
Examples of mental strategies during your training
- Self-talk thoughts Think and say to yourself…
-If this was easy, then everybody could complete a marathon”
-Keep running… Maybe I will feel better when I have some drink”
-If I quit now, I will be very disappointed in myself later this afternoon”
-I am not really physically tired; I am more fatigued mentally”
-Completing this important training run will give me confidence and enable me to finish the marathon comfortably”
-In just one more hour this run will be finished and I will be in at home… showering, relaxing, eating, etc.”

Imagery Imagine…
Imagine that you are a world-class runner and are in the lead of the Boston or Olympic marathon.
Imagine that your running form is smooth and graceful.
Imagine that your a running effortlessly and very relaxed.
Visualization / Mental rehearsal strategies Visualize…
Picture yourself running every mile of the marathon for which you are training. Visualize what the finish line area will look like (e.g., with the clock displaying the time you are shooting for).
See in your “mind’s eye” the spectators who will be cheering for you.  Think of all your friends back at home who will be thinking about you and pulling for you while you will be running.

The stats: 6 x 5:52 miles with 3 minute breaks

The story: I really only enjoyed my second place finish for a day. I have resumed worrying about a sub-3 hour marathon. I didn’t want the slow trail ultra to hurt my speed, so I hit the treadmill for some speed work. Things went really well, although my legs are pretty sore. I plan on giving my legs a bit of a rest this week. I’ll do a 10-miler on Wednesday, then a 20 on Saturday or Sunday. I really want a sub-2:20 20-miler.

The best way to run is with a running partner. Some people use other people for this, some people use dogs. I use my ipod. It is always ready to go when I am, it goes exactly the same pace I do, no matter what that pace is or how often it changes. It sings my favorite running songs, and so far, it has never complained. It also doubles as a pedometer, including keeping track of calories burned, running time, and speed. The songs it plays for me are in a list I made on my computer. Its referred to as my Playlist. People like to compare playlists, so I will give you mine. Its full of Country, and old rock, but there is a few newer songs too.

Playlist “Run Run Run”

The Shake by Neal McCoy

Chicken Fried by the Zac Brown Band

Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Save a Horse by Big & Rich

Texas in 1880 by Pat Green & Radney Foster

I’m Yours by Jason Mraz

Footloose by Kenny Loggins

Stayin Alive by the Bee Gees

Eye of the Tiger by Survivor

Come out and Play by Offspring

Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day

Clocks by Coldplay

White Hot by Tom Cochrane

Sixteen Tons by Tennessee Ernie Ford

The Devil Went Down to Georgia by Charlie Daniels

Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane and Red Rider

Wizards in Winter by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand

Should I stay or Should I Go by The Clash

Rock and Roll Pt 2 by Gary Glitter

Roll on Down the Highway by Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Let it Ride by Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival

I bet you though you would never see Tennessee Ernie Ford and Green Day on the same list!!

Wizards of Winter is a Christmas Song, so they say, but it is an instrumental so it doesn’t matter.

There are two other running playlists on my ipod, generated by the ipod itself. I like my invention better and I can add to it, change it around, or delete songs as I like.

Maybe I will get another kind of running partner one day but for now, me and my ipod are getting along great!

]]> http://cheaperthantherapy.wordpress.com/2009/11/16/when-the-lights-came-back-on/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:15:07 +0000 Marie http://cheaperthantherapy.wordpress.com/2009/11/16/when-the-lights-came-back-on/

Hola campers!

The power was out for an hour or so tonight. Hubby called while I was driving home from work because he heard a crash, then the power went out and then the sirens. Apparently someone plowed into a transformer near our house and naturally he assumed it was me. (I only hit mailboxes, thank you very much!)

Here’s a few pics from our very short campout (probably you’d get a better idea if my flash weren’t so dang effective):

Whoops! That was supposed to be a photo of a 2007 Rheingau Pinot Noir I took in the dark. Yum! Wine is definitely better in the dark, by a hot fire!

For dinner we had leftover spaghetti squash pasta. I stopped by the grocery store and picked up some basil on the way home. It was a different store than I usually go to – and they had their basil in the COOLER. (Actually its called an air-curtain merchandiser; don’t ask me how I know that.)

Raaawr. So it was all limp and tasteless. I may have to write them a letter and tell them not to chill their basil!

Okay – now that the power is back on, we have some movies to watch!

Later!