OK, so I am very jazzed about the Red Sox winning their 2nd World Series in 4 years last week. But I was even more psyched about finishing the Marine Corps Marathon in a near PR time of 3 hours, 52 min and 51 sec. )about 30 seconds off my 2006 Boston Marathon pace).
It serves as a reminder to me that if the weather is perfect, and if I eat lots of spaghetti and meatballs the night before, and if I watch the Red Sox win Game 3 of a World Series until midnight the night before my 4 a.m. wake-up call, then anything is possible! Seriously, man, I slept 4 hours, 'prepped and commuted' for 4 hours, then ran for 4 hours. Yikes.
BUT, I was well-hydrated, well-fed, and ran at a blistering (literally) pace. All-in-all, it was a fabulous run, I felt great and am looking forward to possibly returning to Austin in Feb, ahead of the 2008 Boston Marathon...perhaps actually qualifying for Boston before I turn 65!
...stay tuned!
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Thursday, October 25, 2007
3 Days until marathon in DC, info for tracking Paul
Down to the wire...I ran a comfortable 5 miler yesterday and am feeling pretty good about the weekend - weather forecast is perfect...sunny, relatively dry and temps in low 50s to low 60s. I'll take it!
For those who'd like to track my progress online, info can be found at:
http://www.doitsports.com/results/MSG-signup.tcl?sub_event_id=2941
Directions are pretty self-explanatory, but you'll need my name and possibly my "bib" number (4549).
Anyway, am flying to DC tonight, hopefully landing before the Red Sox score 13 more runs :-) and then enjoying a great weekend getting psyched up for race and visting with great friends.
thanks for your ongoing support, and especially to Lena, Noah and Ali. You'll be with me with every step, and I PROMISE that I won't call you for a ride home on Sunday!
For those who'd like to track my progress online, info can be found at:
http://www.doitsports.com/results/MSG-signup.tcl?sub_event_id=2941
Directions are pretty self-explanatory, but you'll need my name and possibly my "bib" number (4549).
Anyway, am flying to DC tonight, hopefully landing before the Red Sox score 13 more runs :-) and then enjoying a great weekend getting psyched up for race and visting with great friends.
thanks for your ongoing support, and especially to Lena, Noah and Ali. You'll be with me with every step, and I PROMISE that I won't call you for a ride home on Sunday!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
17 Days until Marine Corps Marathon...Hooah! (Oorah)!
So it's 2:40 a.m. and I can't sleep...I'm all fired up about the upcoming marathon (either that or the pint of Ben and Jerry's I inhaled as "fuel" last night just isn't agreeing with me!) <--probably the latter.
Anyway, I finally looked at the topographical map of the marathon route and the hilliness for miles 1-8 looks daunting. The fact that the last 1.2 miles are also straight uphill ain't helping my psyche, but I guess when you're running a route designed by U.S. Marines, flat and 'cushy' just isn't an option :-)
So I am "tapering" my training, which means working down from the long runs (which peaked at 20.6 miles, not my hope of 23), but am feeling pretty good about my pacing on the runs this time (averaging between 8 and 9.5 minute miles, depending on distance), so, bring on DC! My goal is to get back to the sub-4 hour time, but given the horrible events in the Chicago Marathon this past weekend (1 death, 10,000 no-shows, and an official early ending to the 88 degree race), I realize that finishing and staying alive (not in that order) are my 2 top priorities!
I am grateful to those of you who have been so supportive as I've tried to balance training with work and life and general, most notably Lena, Noah and Ali -- I know the "free" time I take for my runs isn't always 'free', and their love and support has truly been more consistent than my running! (including all the no-questions-asked rescue missions, which have consisted of Paul calling from his cell phone at random times on a weekend to beg for a ride home from an over-ambitious run). I am also grateful to my DC hosts, Angie and Luis, who've graciously allowed me to crash at their place for the weekend of the marathon.
As the cool fall weather hits and the winter weather will inevitably soon follow, I am hopeful to continue the running in the months ahead. I welcome your comments, and hope that reading about an everyday guy like me running marathons is entertaining, if not inspirational, for you!
Happy Thursday! Paul
Anyway, I finally looked at the topographical map of the marathon route and the hilliness for miles 1-8 looks daunting. The fact that the last 1.2 miles are also straight uphill ain't helping my psyche, but I guess when you're running a route designed by U.S. Marines, flat and 'cushy' just isn't an option :-)
So I am "tapering" my training, which means working down from the long runs (which peaked at 20.6 miles, not my hope of 23), but am feeling pretty good about my pacing on the runs this time (averaging between 8 and 9.5 minute miles, depending on distance), so, bring on DC! My goal is to get back to the sub-4 hour time, but given the horrible events in the Chicago Marathon this past weekend (1 death, 10,000 no-shows, and an official early ending to the 88 degree race), I realize that finishing and staying alive (not in that order) are my 2 top priorities!
I am grateful to those of you who have been so supportive as I've tried to balance training with work and life and general, most notably Lena, Noah and Ali -- I know the "free" time I take for my runs isn't always 'free', and their love and support has truly been more consistent than my running! (including all the no-questions-asked rescue missions, which have consisted of Paul calling from his cell phone at random times on a weekend to beg for a ride home from an over-ambitious run). I am also grateful to my DC hosts, Angie and Luis, who've graciously allowed me to crash at their place for the weekend of the marathon.
As the cool fall weather hits and the winter weather will inevitably soon follow, I am hopeful to continue the running in the months ahead. I welcome your comments, and hope that reading about an everyday guy like me running marathons is entertaining, if not inspirational, for you!
Happy Thursday! Paul
Monday, August 27, 2007
The hills are alive (with the sound of gasping)
So I'm back from several days in Maine, and following a cruise to Bermuda in early August...great to getaway, but difficult to maintain regular training schedule...a few sporadic runs, including an interesting one on a treadmill on the ship's 11th deck (while docked in St. George, Bermuda) and another CLIMB on some hilly roads in Maine - an exhausting 4-miler last Friday.
Today, back at work, I tackled "Grossman's Hill" in Wellesley on my lunch break -- it's on the Boston Marathon route, but in the reverse direction. A short (5-mile) run with some great hills. It was sunny and hot -- as it should be in August -- and reminded me that I should really try to get out earlier in the day!!
More to come in the weeks ahead...less than 9 weeks to go before Marine Corps run! I expect to hit Heartbreak and Hopkinton with increasing frequency as my long runs should climb from 15 miles to 22 over the next 5 weeks.
Today, back at work, I tackled "Grossman's Hill" in Wellesley on my lunch break -- it's on the Boston Marathon route, but in the reverse direction. A short (5-mile) run with some great hills. It was sunny and hot -- as it should be in August -- and reminded me that I should really try to get out earlier in the day!!
More to come in the weeks ahead...less than 9 weeks to go before Marine Corps run! I expect to hit Heartbreak and Hopkinton with increasing frequency as my long runs should climb from 15 miles to 22 over the next 5 weeks.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Corps competence?
It's been 4 months since my last blog update. For those of you receiving e-mail updates..."hi!"
In fact, after my mediocre performance in the Boston Marathon last April, I was quick to apply for my next marathon -- although my application for the NY Marathon was rejected, I will be running in the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC on Sunday October 28th. Let me know if you'll be there with a big ol' sign and shouts of encouragement!
Training, yet again, has been sporadic, but now that I'm within 10.5 weeks, I'll be stepping it up, so to speak. I have been pretty consistently running at a 8.5-9 minute mile pace, and have taken a couple of 10+ milers up Heartbreak Hill and back from work. But I haven't been logging many miles yet on a consistent basis, and look forward to getting back into a groove in the coming weeks.
My goal for DC is to finish below 4 hours, so check back often, let me know you're checking back often, and keep me honest - especially as the weather gets colder!
Oh, and, by the way, I'll be running my 3rd consecutive Boston Marathon next year, and look forward to continuing to raise awareness and funds to fight homelessness and hunger. I will be re-joining the Pine Street Inn team in 2008, so please consider joining the fight by contributing to my 2008 Boston Marathon effort at http://www.firstgiving.com/pjoseph2008
Or, if you’d prefer to make a donation to support the Greater Boston food Bank, please go to: http://www.gbfb.org/marathon/ and select my name from the ‘drop-down’ list of team members, when prompted for "Designation."
Be well, and thanks for your interest and support.
Paul
PS – Congratulations to my cousin, Elaine C., winner of the pair of tickets to see Wicked in October. And thank you to her for generously re-donating them to another pair of my donors!
In fact, after my mediocre performance in the Boston Marathon last April, I was quick to apply for my next marathon -- although my application for the NY Marathon was rejected, I will be running in the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC on Sunday October 28th. Let me know if you'll be there with a big ol' sign and shouts of encouragement!
Training, yet again, has been sporadic, but now that I'm within 10.5 weeks, I'll be stepping it up, so to speak. I have been pretty consistently running at a 8.5-9 minute mile pace, and have taken a couple of 10+ milers up Heartbreak Hill and back from work. But I haven't been logging many miles yet on a consistent basis, and look forward to getting back into a groove in the coming weeks.
My goal for DC is to finish below 4 hours, so check back often, let me know you're checking back often, and keep me honest - especially as the weather gets colder!
Oh, and, by the way, I'll be running my 3rd consecutive Boston Marathon next year, and look forward to continuing to raise awareness and funds to fight homelessness and hunger. I will be re-joining the Pine Street Inn team in 2008, so please consider joining the fight by contributing to my 2008 Boston Marathon effort at http://www.firstgiving.com/pjoseph2008
Or, if you’d prefer to make a donation to support the Greater Boston food Bank, please go to: http://www.gbfb.org/marathon/ and select my name from the ‘drop-down’ list of team members, when prompted for "Designation."
Be well, and thanks for your interest and support.
Paul
PS – Congratulations to my cousin, Elaine C., winner of the pair of tickets to see Wicked in October. And thank you to her for generously re-donating them to another pair of my donors!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
My goose (duck) was cooked, but healthy and happy today
So, I'm back at the office today...legs are very tight in major muscle areas, but overall am doing fine.
The marathon yesterday was not as horrible weather-wise as they were predicting; however, there were a couple of good, dousing rains and a few sustained blasts of wind (especially in the city itself). Despite finishing 40+ minutes slower than last year, I did have fun. Unfortunately, my legs tightened up and I started blistering a bit on my left foot even before the half-way point, so my pace declined quite rapidly over the 2nd (hilly) half. I spent a few water stops along the way massaging my quads and basically punching the muscles to loosen them up, so my final 10 miles or so was pretty much a battle of mind over matter (and given where my mind was wandering, "matter" proved to be a worthy adversary).
I CAN say that I finished the entire marathon wearing an inflatable duck around my waist (see pic on the blog page) ; and the optimist and quasi-superstitious guy in me thinks that the duck played a role in keeping the horrible weather at bay. And, once I realized that I wouldn't be setting any time records, having the duck proved to be a lot of fun for the brave souls lining the streets ("Hey, Duckman!" "Rubber Ducky, You're The One!" "Go Paul. Get the duck going!" these are a few examples of the gems I heard...kept me smiling, and that helped to conceal my wincing). Also, it was fun 'high-fiving' kids that were smiling at the duck as I waddled by.
Anyway, the competitor in me feels lame (lame duck?) for not doing better time-wise, but I gave what I could, when I could, this spring for training and throughout the race, and I did finish, so I'll take that.
As I told Lena, I felt more like the rodeo clown than the cowboy at this show, but I guess everyone plays their role and in the end 'the show' comes together. I'm just glad to have played some part and am happy to have been able to do this again...participating in the Boston Marathon is truly a wonderful and energizing experience. It's also especially rewarding to know that my kids have learned a little bit more about how deeply fortunate we are as a family, and how important it is to do what you can, when you can, to help another in need. Raising awareness and funds for the Food Bank, Pine Street (last year) and having them share in the experience, were/are my greatest motivators.
Thanks for your interest and your support.
Sincerely, Paul
PS: For those asking "what's next?" My hope is the 2007 NYC Marathon in November, if I'm accepted (I've entered the lottery and will learn by June whether/not I'm 'in'.) If not NYC, then I'm considering the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC or The Hartford Marathon in Hartford, CT as other options for my "fall marathon").
The marathon yesterday was not as horrible weather-wise as they were predicting; however, there were a couple of good, dousing rains and a few sustained blasts of wind (especially in the city itself). Despite finishing 40+ minutes slower than last year, I did have fun. Unfortunately, my legs tightened up and I started blistering a bit on my left foot even before the half-way point, so my pace declined quite rapidly over the 2nd (hilly) half. I spent a few water stops along the way massaging my quads and basically punching the muscles to loosen them up, so my final 10 miles or so was pretty much a battle of mind over matter (and given where my mind was wandering, "matter" proved to be a worthy adversary).
I CAN say that I finished the entire marathon wearing an inflatable duck around my waist (see pic on the blog page) ; and the optimist and quasi-superstitious guy in me thinks that the duck played a role in keeping the horrible weather at bay. And, once I realized that I wouldn't be setting any time records, having the duck proved to be a lot of fun for the brave souls lining the streets ("Hey, Duckman!" "Rubber Ducky, You're The One!" "Go Paul. Get the duck going!" these are a few examples of the gems I heard...kept me smiling, and that helped to conceal my wincing). Also, it was fun 'high-fiving' kids that were smiling at the duck as I waddled by.
Anyway, the competitor in me feels lame (lame duck?) for not doing better time-wise, but I gave what I could, when I could, this spring for training and throughout the race, and I did finish, so I'll take that.
As I told Lena, I felt more like the rodeo clown than the cowboy at this show, but I guess everyone plays their role and in the end 'the show' comes together. I'm just glad to have played some part and am happy to have been able to do this again...participating in the Boston Marathon is truly a wonderful and energizing experience. It's also especially rewarding to know that my kids have learned a little bit more about how deeply fortunate we are as a family, and how important it is to do what you can, when you can, to help another in need. Raising awareness and funds for the Food Bank, Pine Street (last year) and having them share in the experience, were/are my greatest motivators.
Thanks for your interest and your support.
Sincerely, Paul
PS: For those asking "what's next?" My hope is the 2007 NYC Marathon in November, if I'm accepted (I've entered the lottery and will learn by June whether/not I'm 'in'.) If not NYC, then I'm considering the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC or The Hartford Marathon in Hartford, CT as other options for my "fall marathon").
Sunday, April 15, 2007
it's "go" time
OK - for those of you tracking me in 'real time', you should have received a 'test' e-mail today from BAA.
For those who want to log on to track progress, go to http://www.baa.org/ and my bib # is: 20618.
For any brave souls lining the route, my bib # will be pinned to my left thigh.
I will be wearing my black knit/fleece hat or hood (if wind allows, will have a red, Red Sox visor wrapped around my winter headgear), black pants, blue jacket, but with a white T-shirt over it (I've ironed a small GBFB logo and "Can Do. Attitude is a Decision" on the shirt); but, if you still can't see me, I'm also going to be wearing a yellow, inflatable duck (wrapped around my waist), b/c, it will indeed be a good day for...well, you get the idea. Be warned...if the wind proves to be too much, I'm ditching the duck along the way, so headgear and/or my bib # is best way to spot me.
So, as I prepare for bed, I wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who's been so supportive so far, and please keep me (and a tailwind) in your thoughts and prayers for Monday.
Also, please remember as you think about how crazy this is...there is someone homeless that deals with far worse conditions for more than 4 +/- hours per year, and there are people in your neighborhood that are struggling to find the resources to feed themselves and their families... thank you for doing what you can to help wherever and whenever you can.
Much like last year, I am filled with the positive energy, gratitude, and humility that this experience brings to bear. (yellow duck not-withstanding) :-)
Be well, Paul
For those who want to log on to track progress, go to http://www.baa.org/ and my bib # is: 20618.
For any brave souls lining the route, my bib # will be pinned to my left thigh.
I will be wearing my black knit/fleece hat or hood (if wind allows, will have a red, Red Sox visor wrapped around my winter headgear), black pants, blue jacket, but with a white T-shirt over it (I've ironed a small GBFB logo and "Can Do. Attitude is a Decision" on the shirt); but, if you still can't see me, I'm also going to be wearing a yellow, inflatable duck (wrapped around my waist), b/c, it will indeed be a good day for...well, you get the idea. Be warned...if the wind proves to be too much, I'm ditching the duck along the way, so headgear and/or my bib # is best way to spot me.
So, as I prepare for bed, I wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who's been so supportive so far, and please keep me (and a tailwind) in your thoughts and prayers for Monday.
Also, please remember as you think about how crazy this is...there is someone homeless that deals with far worse conditions for more than 4 +/- hours per year, and there are people in your neighborhood that are struggling to find the resources to feed themselves and their families... thank you for doing what you can to help wherever and whenever you can.
Much like last year, I am filled with the positive energy, gratitude, and humility that this experience brings to bear. (yellow duck not-withstanding) :-)
Be well, Paul
Friday, April 13, 2007
Follow Me! (on Marathon Day)
Since many of you have asked:
If you'd like to receive an e-mail update or text message as I progress through the route on Marathon Day (Monday 4/16 from about 10:30-2:30 ET), please send me an email at: paul.r.joseph@comcast.net and I'll add you to the notification list called: wherespaulnow@googlegroups.com
Include the e-mail address or the text message address where you'd like to receive the notifications (something like 5555555555@yourmobileprovider.net). Check with your mobile service provider if you require additional information
Thanks, Paul
If you'd like to receive an e-mail update or text message as I progress through the route on Marathon Day (Monday 4/16 from about 10:30-2:30 ET), please send me an email at: paul.r.joseph@comcast.net and I'll add you to the notification list called: wherespaulnow@googlegroups.com
Include the e-mail address or the text message address where you'd like to receive the notifications (something like 5555555555@yourmobileprovider.net). Check with your mobile service provider if you require additional information
Thanks, Paul
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Running...out of time!
So I'm working late and NOT getting my planned 10-mile run in today...I was hoping to run Heartbreak Hill one more time, in the rain, to simulate the conditions predicted for Monday. Oh well. Stayed dry and was able to blast one last "Hail Mary" pass of an e-mail to many of you.
it's been a VERY interesting 'final' week before the big day. Total miles logged since Sunday = 0
One way or another, I'll get those last few miles in on Friday a.m. and probably Sunday (they say that it's best to rest and not run at all on Saturday and to do a light, loosening jog on Sunday...what they don't say is "why not just take the whole week before the race off!" :-0
So, let's run down the list:
Scary weather: check
Lame preparation: check
Poor sleep: check
Marginally regular and nutritious meals: check
Butterflies in stomach: ironically, not so much
overconfidence (or, perhaps, just good old fashioned optimism): check
...If I set a personal record this year I'll be insufferable!
(p.s. - don't worry, Mom, for the most part, I'd been sleeping, eating, and training right up until the last week)
it's been a VERY interesting 'final' week before the big day. Total miles logged since Sunday = 0
One way or another, I'll get those last few miles in on Friday a.m. and probably Sunday (they say that it's best to rest and not run at all on Saturday and to do a light, loosening jog on Sunday...what they don't say is "why not just take the whole week before the race off!" :-0
So, let's run down the list:
Scary weather: check
Lame preparation: check
Poor sleep: check
Marginally regular and nutritious meals: check
Butterflies in stomach: ironically, not so much
overconfidence (or, perhaps, just good old fashioned optimism): check
...If I set a personal record this year I'll be insufferable!
(p.s. - don't worry, Mom, for the most part, I'd been sleeping, eating, and training right up until the last week)
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Weather looks grim!
OK...so "weather.com" isn't showing me the love for Marathon Monday: Hi of 49 degrees, Low of 36, 20 m.p.h. winds, and RAIN (70% chance and getting worse every time I check back).
So, to those of you who said they'd be out there cheering me on...bring an umbrella and a LOUD voice...I've done the 'slogging through 26 miles in the cold rain' run once before (Victoria, BC last October was wet and drizzly) and it's about as pleasant as, well, jogging in the cold rain for 4 hours...some metaphors kinda write themselves. (<--this comment holds true for similes as well, for my English major friends and family). Your encouragement would be most welcome, although your decision to stay indoors and shoot me an e-mail would be completely understandable!
Hope to see a few diehards out there on the course; and for those of you cheering from afar, please keep the following thoughts in your head come 10:30 a.m. Monday:
- warm, but not too warm,
- dry, and
- TAIL wind (one of the few ways that my superior surface area would give me a competitive advantage).
Gotta run! Paul
So, to those of you who said they'd be out there cheering me on...bring an umbrella and a LOUD voice...I've done the 'slogging through 26 miles in the cold rain' run once before (Victoria, BC last October was wet and drizzly) and it's about as pleasant as, well, jogging in the cold rain for 4 hours...some metaphors kinda write themselves. (<--this comment holds true for similes as well, for my English major friends and family). Your encouragement would be most welcome, although your decision to stay indoors and shoot me an e-mail would be completely understandable!
Hope to see a few diehards out there on the course; and for those of you cheering from afar, please keep the following thoughts in your head come 10:30 a.m. Monday:
- warm, but not too warm,
- dry, and
- TAIL wind (one of the few ways that my superior surface area would give me a competitive advantage).
Gotta run! Paul
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Radical pre-marathon diet...Opening Day at Fenway
So I have been completely thrown off my game with less than a week to go before Marathon :-0
Monday...went out to lunch with team from work yesterday and celebrated a colleague's birthday with a BBQ burger at Friendly's (broccoli, no fries, so I could live with myself)...and then today at the office, we celebrated Opening Day at Fenway with hot dogs, popcorn, and a fire drill, thanks to the popcorn maker under the smoke/heat detector (it's funny b/c the landlord waived the fine!). I 'chased' the 2 hot dogs down with too many handfuls of peanuts and some Twizzlers over the course of the game which we had 'livecast' with a Jimmy Fund fundraiser at the office...yes, I DO work at a "Best Place" to work, after all!
I share this all with you b/c, well, I pride myself on being somewhat of a 'nontraditional' runner, so I wanted to provide an insider's view to both my rigorous training and my ridiculously human lapses in judgement. :-)
I'm guessing that you won't hear about the Kenyans' new training regimen of burgers, dogs, licorice, and peanuts anytime soon, and that's fine with me; let them win the race. I'll take the 'warm fuzzies' of a 14-3 Sox victory and the 5 billion extra calories and channel that energy in just 6 short days. (either that or I'll hurl tomorrow at dawn somewhere out on a local street...will keep you posted either way)
Monday...went out to lunch with team from work yesterday and celebrated a colleague's birthday with a BBQ burger at Friendly's (broccoli, no fries, so I could live with myself)...and then today at the office, we celebrated Opening Day at Fenway with hot dogs, popcorn, and a fire drill, thanks to the popcorn maker under the smoke/heat detector (it's funny b/c the landlord waived the fine!). I 'chased' the 2 hot dogs down with too many handfuls of peanuts and some Twizzlers over the course of the game which we had 'livecast' with a Jimmy Fund fundraiser at the office...yes, I DO work at a "Best Place" to work, after all!
I share this all with you b/c, well, I pride myself on being somewhat of a 'nontraditional' runner, so I wanted to provide an insider's view to both my rigorous training and my ridiculously human lapses in judgement. :-)
I'm guessing that you won't hear about the Kenyans' new training regimen of burgers, dogs, licorice, and peanuts anytime soon, and that's fine with me; let them win the race. I'll take the 'warm fuzzies' of a 14-3 Sox victory and the 5 billion extra calories and channel that energy in just 6 short days. (either that or I'll hurl tomorrow at dawn somewhere out on a local street...will keep you posted either way)
Friday, April 6, 2007
Happy Easter, Happy Passover
to everyone celebrating this week/weekend, I wish you and your families a happy celebration.
I will be running in Fairfield, CT as we'll be celebrating Easter with Lena's family. Will likely do a couple of 6 milers while there ...trying to wind down the distance running and increase my speed (as much as possible in 10 days' time).
The long-term forecast is looking like perfect running conditions on Marathon Monday -- I hope that holds true!
I will be running in Fairfield, CT as we'll be celebrating Easter with Lena's family. Will likely do a couple of 6 milers while there ...trying to wind down the distance running and increase my speed (as much as possible in 10 days' time).
The long-term forecast is looking like perfect running conditions on Marathon Monday -- I hope that holds true!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Dime, A Dozen
Less than 2 weeks to go, and I ran what was probably my 2nd to last training run up Heartbreak Hill and back...it's times like this when I'm glad I work in Newton and not in Hopkinton!!
Anyway, the 'dime' refers to my 10 mile run, the 'dozen' is the number of days left before the Marathon. Can't believe how fast the time is flying.
Thanks to those of you checking in and to those who have contributed to GBFB on my behalf, thus far. Please spread the word and come out to the course on Patriot's Day if you can -- it's quite a spectacle.
Anyway, the 'dime' refers to my 10 mile run, the 'dozen' is the number of days left before the Marathon. Can't believe how fast the time is flying.
Thanks to those of you checking in and to those who have contributed to GBFB on my behalf, thus far. Please spread the word and come out to the course on Patriot's Day if you can -- it's quite a spectacle.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Half Marathon sans iPod
So I ran my first significant distance (13.1 miles) without the ol' iPod to keep me company -- kind of like giving up the 'binky' but less traumatic thanks to having a running buddy for the first half of my run.
Doing a training run while talking to my neighbor, John, who will also be out there on Marathon Day, was a welcome change of pace for me...not unlike 'walking and chewing gum', the ability to 'run and hold a conversation' and still stay at my targeted pace was a welcome surprise.
I'm actually contemplating leaving the iPod home on the 16th...but then again, I still might sneak 'the binky' in with my gear...old habits die hard.
Doing a training run while talking to my neighbor, John, who will also be out there on Marathon Day, was a welcome change of pace for me...not unlike 'walking and chewing gum', the ability to 'run and hold a conversation' and still stay at my targeted pace was a welcome surprise.
I'm actually contemplating leaving the iPod home on the 16th...but then again, I still might sneak 'the binky' in with my gear...old habits die hard.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Back outside, back against the wall
So I finally made it outside for an early a.m. run again. It feels like it's been a long time since I've been out and about pre-sunrise. Nothing beats the serenity of dawn, crisp air, and quiet roads...until, of course, the school buses, crazy commuters, and domesticated wolves and rodents (= big and little dogs on leashes) join me for miles #5-7 of my 7 mile run.
With just over 2 weeks to go, I'm feeling pretty good about where I am today. I'm probably at a similar level as where I was this time last year, but I feel like I cheated the system this time around! Hopefully the 'been there, done that' factor pulls me through the event slightly faster this year.
I'm hoping to join a couple of neighbors for a 12-13 miler this weekend. They, too, will be out on the course 2 weeks from Monday, so will be fun to become a bit more social and relaxed before 'go' time.
Be well, Paul
With just over 2 weeks to go, I'm feeling pretty good about where I am today. I'm probably at a similar level as where I was this time last year, but I feel like I cheated the system this time around! Hopefully the 'been there, done that' factor pulls me through the event slightly faster this year.
I'm hoping to join a couple of neighbors for a 12-13 miler this weekend. They, too, will be out on the course 2 weeks from Monday, so will be fun to become a bit more social and relaxed before 'go' time.
Be well, Paul
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
running on a "dreadmill"
So I have now run on the treadmill twice this week -- in fact, my first 2 times since training for Boston this year...and now I remember why only twice...boring!
While the workout is good (really keeps me honest about pace, although I have my suspicions about the calibration of the treadmills in our office's gym facility!), there's nothing better that being outside and running with real air (yes, and the real cold/rain/snow/sand-on-the-street/mud/etc. that goes with it!).
As I wind down the distance aspect of training and try to get a few, shorter/'faster' runs in to build quickness, I will be shackled to the "dreadmill" for another couple of weeks...I hope it pays off, b/c the irony of it all is that it's been sunny and beautiful, spring weather just as I started to run inside!
While the workout is good (really keeps me honest about pace, although I have my suspicions about the calibration of the treadmills in our office's gym facility!), there's nothing better that being outside and running with real air (yes, and the real cold/rain/snow/sand-on-the-street/mud/etc. that goes with it!).
As I wind down the distance aspect of training and try to get a few, shorter/'faster' runs in to build quickness, I will be shackled to the "dreadmill" for another couple of weeks...I hope it pays off, b/c the irony of it all is that it's been sunny and beautiful, spring weather just as I started to run inside!
Monday, March 26, 2007
Running as a team sport
So my Saturday run of "22" miles turned out to be more like 17...taken down by a blister in Framingham on my return. Foot is now OK and won't pose a long-term problem; however, I've had a heart-to-heart talk with that pair of socks and they will NOT be joining me on Marathon Day!
I saw many of the other charity runners out on the course, taking their last 'long' runs in advance of the big day (3 weeks to go!). For serious runners, there is a 2-3 week 'taper' period when they ratchet down the distance training to allow their bodies to rest. I, of course, left from my house in Natick and ran in the opposite direction of most of the others (I was planning to run out to Hopkinton and back), so most of the time I was getting funny looks from the masses as if I missed a memo about which way I was 'supposed to' go! It is something amazing to be out on the Marathon course, seeing all these people working towards the same (yet, different for each individual) goal -- a connection to both the 'cause' and to the history of the race...I can't do it justice in words.
My training (and style) is much less strict --- I run in one of 2 modes: 'on' or 'off'. Had I put in more time and had the discipline, I would have done more work to improve my speed -- things like going to a track to work out, and adding some funny things called fartleks (it's a real word...look it up!) into my routine.
I have found that my energy and pace do pick up quite a bit when others are running (although I'm still a pretty anti-social runner b/c I have a hard time running and talking at the same time). BTW -thanks again to the folks at Apple for creating the iPod...not only can I ignore the person next to me on a plane if I so choose, but I can also now run several marathons without hauling my hundreds of cassettes with me in a clunky Walkman.
Anyway, one reason I think I like running is because it reminds me of baseball in some ways -- you have to play your best as a team, but then there are those moments (e.g., in the batter's box, or lining up under a fly ball) that you have to execute as an individual...do it, or don't do it, but it's all on your own shoulders at any given moment.
Although I felt like a maverick running against the tide of those hundreds of other runners, I was certainly reminded during that one, humbling phone call to my team (Lena and the kids) that distance running really is a team sport for me. Thanks again to them for allowing me to take all this time to train, and for their unwavering support as I disrupted their weekend chores and playtime to scramble the minivan for another 'rescue Dad' mission!
I saw many of the other charity runners out on the course, taking their last 'long' runs in advance of the big day (3 weeks to go!). For serious runners, there is a 2-3 week 'taper' period when they ratchet down the distance training to allow their bodies to rest. I, of course, left from my house in Natick and ran in the opposite direction of most of the others (I was planning to run out to Hopkinton and back), so most of the time I was getting funny looks from the masses as if I missed a memo about which way I was 'supposed to' go! It is something amazing to be out on the Marathon course, seeing all these people working towards the same (yet, different for each individual) goal -- a connection to both the 'cause' and to the history of the race...I can't do it justice in words.
My training (and style) is much less strict --- I run in one of 2 modes: 'on' or 'off'. Had I put in more time and had the discipline, I would have done more work to improve my speed -- things like going to a track to work out, and adding some funny things called fartleks (it's a real word...look it up!) into my routine.
I have found that my energy and pace do pick up quite a bit when others are running (although I'm still a pretty anti-social runner b/c I have a hard time running and talking at the same time). BTW -thanks again to the folks at Apple for creating the iPod...not only can I ignore the person next to me on a plane if I so choose, but I can also now run several marathons without hauling my hundreds of cassettes with me in a clunky Walkman.
Anyway, one reason I think I like running is because it reminds me of baseball in some ways -- you have to play your best as a team, but then there are those moments (e.g., in the batter's box, or lining up under a fly ball) that you have to execute as an individual...do it, or don't do it, but it's all on your own shoulders at any given moment.
Although I felt like a maverick running against the tide of those hundreds of other runners, I was certainly reminded during that one, humbling phone call to my team (Lena and the kids) that distance running really is a team sport for me. Thanks again to them for allowing me to take all this time to train, and for their unwavering support as I disrupted their weekend chores and playtime to scramble the minivan for another 'rescue Dad' mission!
Friday, March 23, 2007
24, 10.16, and 20618
Wow. I'm sorry I didn't log stuff sooner. You could have really heard some interesting stories (griping) about the sub-zero runs and my general 'malaiziness' this winter! Anyway, feeling more energized these days, and hope you're enjoying the periodic updates.
So, a quick look at the calendar, clock, and BAA.org website tells me:
24 days to go...I'm starting to get excited about the Marathon and hope many of you locals can sneak away from work for a bit to watch the race. I was energized by all the friends and family lining the route last year...someone to potentially see every 5-7 miles or so -- I'll post my ETA for specific route locations in a couple of weeks, once I gauge my likely pace and timing of crossing the Start Line.
10.16 refers to my run mileage today (up over the top of Heartbreak and a bit farther, since I 'didn't get around to' my 8-miler yesterday -- I slack off, but then I feel guilty). It was a great spring day for a run, though the clouds looked more threatening by the end of my run. Given my "summit" of Heartbreak Hill today, I'll likely replace the charity 21-miler tomorrow with an 'out and back' from my house to the Start Line (~22 miles, but no big hill at the end). Saturday marks 'moving furniture out' day, as we are about to undergo some major renovation at the house. I wonder how stable my legs will feel hauling our sofas, side table and other furniture out after running 22 miles in the a.m. ...hmmm...can't wait to read Sunday's log, myself! Thanks to Gary O. for taking time out on his birthday to help me move that furniture (if not join me for the run).
Finally, I found out yesterday that my official 'bib' number for the race will be: 20618 (a demotion from last year's 19348, but once again, I'm just happy to have been nominated). For those of you tracking my progress on race day, take note.
In the meantime, have a great weekend. Paul
So, a quick look at the calendar, clock, and BAA.org website tells me:
24 days to go...I'm starting to get excited about the Marathon and hope many of you locals can sneak away from work for a bit to watch the race. I was energized by all the friends and family lining the route last year...someone to potentially see every 5-7 miles or so -- I'll post my ETA for specific route locations in a couple of weeks, once I gauge my likely pace and timing of crossing the Start Line.
10.16 refers to my run mileage today (up over the top of Heartbreak and a bit farther, since I 'didn't get around to' my 8-miler yesterday -- I slack off, but then I feel guilty). It was a great spring day for a run, though the clouds looked more threatening by the end of my run. Given my "summit" of Heartbreak Hill today, I'll likely replace the charity 21-miler tomorrow with an 'out and back' from my house to the Start Line (~22 miles, but no big hill at the end). Saturday marks 'moving furniture out' day, as we are about to undergo some major renovation at the house. I wonder how stable my legs will feel hauling our sofas, side table and other furniture out after running 22 miles in the a.m. ...hmmm...can't wait to read Sunday's log, myself! Thanks to Gary O. for taking time out on his birthday to help me move that furniture (if not join me for the run).
Finally, I found out yesterday that my official 'bib' number for the race will be: 20618 (a demotion from last year's 19348, but once again, I'm just happy to have been nominated). For those of you tracking my progress on race day, take note.
In the meantime, have a great weekend. Paul
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Formal Apology to Jimmy Buffett and his Parrotheads
To any and all Jimmy Buffett fans, I have been ridiculed for mis-spelling his name (hey, I'm running for a food bank, any wonder I called him Jimmy 'Buffet'??).
In any case: Jimmy, Parrotheads.. consider this my formal, public apology.
In any case: Jimmy, Parrotheads.. consider this my formal, public apology.
Twenty-five days and counting! :-0
It’s Thursday, March 22nd and as of 10:30ish a.m. today, there are exactly 25 days left until I “toe the line” (well, more like get herded like on of the 10,000 foot-shuffling masses across the modest start-line) in Hopkinton, MA. I will be in the "2nd wave" of 10,000 -- the 1st wave leaves at 10 a.m. this year, rather than noon. Another slight change in format from last year.
It's getting perilously close to 'go' time -- one last charity team 'practice' run this Saturday (21-miler from the start line in Hopkinton to the top of "Heartbreak Hill" in Brookline).
The few times I've run the hills in Newton this year have been much smoother than last year; but, working only a couple of miles from the 3-tiered “hill” makes it much more manageable as “miles #2-4” as opposed to “miles #19-21” of the run.
Today I will aim for a modest 8 miler, tackling some, but not all, of Heartbreak.
Have a great day! Paul
It's getting perilously close to 'go' time -- one last charity team 'practice' run this Saturday (21-miler from the start line in Hopkinton to the top of "Heartbreak Hill" in Brookline).
The few times I've run the hills in Newton this year have been much smoother than last year; but, working only a couple of miles from the 3-tiered “hill” makes it much more manageable as “miles #2-4” as opposed to “miles #19-21” of the run.
Today I will aim for a modest 8 miler, tackling some, but not all, of Heartbreak.
Have a great day! Paul
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Forty-One Days To Go!
So, as the weather finally 'warms' up to the low 30s today, I have been staring out into the dark window since about 3:30 a.m. Recovering from 4 days of flu has been a hassle, but knowing that both of my children have been battling the same flu (one with fever for 7 days, the other down for 5 days this week)reminds me how little I have to complain about.
It was only 1 week ago that I joined hundreds of other charity-sponsoring marathoners for a "16 miler" (actually a 17.1 mile!) run from Natick, MA into downtown Boston... I haven't run a step since, and am a bit concerned about getting my stamina back with only about 8 weeks to go.
Overall, I've not been training as diligently as I had by this time last year; but, in my defense, I was out there almost every day the week before last -- braving wind chills of 7 below zero and wearing a ski mask and hood to keep my head warm and my line of sight clear! Those were some brutal runs...ranging from the 3-mile "get-out-and-move" run to the several 7-mile loops and even a 16.7 miler two weeks ago today.
I often think about the homeless on the brutally cold mornings -- running last year's Marathon in support of the Pine Street Inn (http://www.pinestreetinn.org/) still humbles and motivates me. I remain grateful to those many of you who supported me last year, as I encourage you to keep up the effort, either for Pine Street Inn or for your local homeless agnecy.
thanks for checking in! Paul
It was only 1 week ago that I joined hundreds of other charity-sponsoring marathoners for a "16 miler" (actually a 17.1 mile!) run from Natick, MA into downtown Boston... I haven't run a step since, and am a bit concerned about getting my stamina back with only about 8 weeks to go.
Overall, I've not been training as diligently as I had by this time last year; but, in my defense, I was out there almost every day the week before last -- braving wind chills of 7 below zero and wearing a ski mask and hood to keep my head warm and my line of sight clear! Those were some brutal runs...ranging from the 3-mile "get-out-and-move" run to the several 7-mile loops and even a 16.7 miler two weeks ago today.
I often think about the homeless on the brutally cold mornings -- running last year's Marathon in support of the Pine Street Inn (http://www.pinestreetinn.org/) still humbles and motivates me. I remain grateful to those many of you who supported me last year, as I encourage you to keep up the effort, either for Pine Street Inn or for your local homeless agnecy.
thanks for checking in! Paul
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