Monday, December 31, 2018

2018 Year in Review - Running PRs

Today is the last day of 2018. So, now is a good time to review my personal records (PRs) that I accomplished this year. I ended up running the last few days to try to stay in shape for next year, so my mileage total has gone up since the last post. Otherwise, long story short, it looks like I made improvements in my long runs, but just couldn't get faster times in the short ones.

1K = no change, still at 3:54 from 2016 (my best attempt was 4:02 in 2018)

1M = no change, still at 6:32 from 2017 (my best attempt was 6:35 in 2018)

5K = no change, still at 21:44 from 2017 (my best attempt was 22:30 in 2018)

10K = no change, still at 47:53 from 2017 (my best attempt was 48:40 in 2018)

Half-Marathon = 5 minutes and 11 seconds faster, 1:45:23 down from 1:50:34 in 2017

Full-Marathon = never been attempted

Farthest Distance = 1.19 miles farther, 16.20 up from 15.01 in 2017

Total Yearly Distance = 1,263.58 miles in 2018 up from 1,000.05 miles in 2017


Friday, December 28, 2018

2018 Year in Review - Final Stats

My running in 2018 is officially over. There are only a few more days in December, and the weather is horrible. So, I don't plan to do anything until 2019. Now is a good time to review my running stats and personal records. I had a great year and completed my huge goal of running 2,000 kilometers (1,242 miles) by late November.

Final 2018 stats:

Runs: 280
Distance: 1,253.27 miles
Total Time: 194h 14m 51s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.48 miles
Total Calories: 170,889
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Here is my monthly breakdown:


Saturday, December 22, 2018

Great Fun for Everyone

I've been playing some great video games lately, most of them developed by indies. On PlayStation 4, we have Slain, Inside, and Axiom Verge. On Nintendo Switch, we have Golf Story, The Messenger, Bloodstained: Circle of the Moon, and SteamWorld Dig 2. So many fun games, and many are fine for the whole family to play together. These last three or four years have been great for gamers.

Friday, December 7, 2018

Manley's Teachers Pay Teachers Store

I've had a few products up on my Teachers Pay Teachers site for a year or two, but I just realized I've never promoted it before. Teachers (and parents) can find single page print-outs for class or even my entire 150 Story Ideas book. So, check it out here:
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Manley-Peterson


Saturday, December 1, 2018

Saturday, November 24, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #53

On November 21, 2018, I ran 4.6 miles to finish up my 1,234 mile goal. Then, I took a few days off for the Thanksgiving holiday with family. Then, to finish my 2018 running season, I ran 9 miles today (November 24, 2018) to finish my year with 1,243 miles which is equivalent to 2,000 kilometers. So, there you have it. I am now done with running with a little over five weeks to go until the end of the year. I will now take some extended time off to rest and relax and heal up any nagging injuries, which are pretty minimal. And then we'll see what I might do for 2019 after giving it some thought. I'll have another post later on to give a summary of my year.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 276
Distance: 1,243.02 miles
Total Time: 192h 27m 28s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.50 miles
Total Calories: 169,516
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 37
Miles Left in Year: 0 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.0 miles

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #52

Well, I'm not going quietly into the night, that's for dang sure. I didn't want to finish this year with a whimper, running short distances just to get the mileage done. So, I decided no matter what the weather, I was going to get out there and finish the year strong. The last four days I have ran a little more than a 10K each day, totaling up 25.11 miles, in snow and ice conditions. I am on the cusp. I only have 4.59 miles left to get to 1,234 miles. It is unreal. So close, so close. This has been a long year in some ways, and other times when I think about it, I wonder how it went by so fast. I'm just thrilled to still be standing upright and staring down that finish line.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 274
Distance: 1,229.41 miles
Total Time: 190h 23m 05s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.49 miles
Total Calories: 167,648
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 41
Miles Left in Year: 4.59 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.11 miles

Friday, November 16, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #51

So, there goes 1,200 miles. Buh-bye. It is in my rear-view mirror. I've got less than 30 miles to go now to get my goal. My plan is to run a 10K for five days in a row and just grind this mother out. Of course, guess what tomorrow is? The start of deer hunting in Wisconsin. So, to be safer, I'll probably wait until closer to noon to run each day and wear bright colors. My body feels pretty good. I ran a 4-miler today averaging 8:15/mile.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 270
Distance: 1,204.29 miles
Total Time: 186h 28m 23s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.46 miles
Total Calories: 164,181
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 45
Miles Left in Year: 29.71 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.66 miles

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #50

Wow, this is my 50th running update this year. And I am so close to the 1,200 mile barrier that it is giving me the willies. I'm still injured. My (currently) mild groin hernia isn't causing any pain, but I can *feel* its presence. So, that is basically all I can think about while running. I have to check on it every half mile or so to make sure I haven't made it worse. I really hope that running won't make it worse. But what can I do? If I don't run or exercise, that makes my body and mind feel bad in another way. So, I have to run something, even if it is a little one mile jaunt.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 267
Distance: 1,198.21 miles
Total Time: 185h 34m 34s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.49 miles
Total Calories: 163,335
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 47
Miles Left in Year: 35.79 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.76 miles

Friday, November 9, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #49

Well, six days since my last post and I went exactly one mile. Why? One dreaded word. Injury. I have what might be a mild inguinal hernia where my right leg joins my pelvis. I had it checked out by a doctor, and thank goodness it seems pretty mild and small. I just need to rest, try to strengthen my core muscles, and be careful lifting heavy things. The doctor said running should be okay as long as it doesn't hurt. So, I tried out one mile today. And I finished it without pain. We'll see what tomorrow brings.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 264
Distance: 1,186.59 miles
Total Time: 183h 42m 43s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.49 miles
Total Calories: 161,728
Avg Speed: 6.6 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 52
Miles Left in Year: 47.41 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.91 miles

Saturday, November 3, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #48

The weather was decent today, so it was optimal for running (or pretty much as good as it can get for this time of year in Wisconsin), but I had to stop early because of a nagging pain in my right groin area. I don't want it to get worse, so I stopped. It is frustrating. I am so close to finishing this 1,234 mile goal. I might need to take a few days off to heal.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 263
Distance: 1,185.59 miles
Total Time: 183h 31m 58s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.51 miles
Total Calories: 161,586
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 58
Miles Left in Year: 48.41 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.83 miles

Sunday, October 28, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #47

It has been cold and rainy the last few days, so I haven't had a whole lot of energy or enthusiasm to get out there and run. However, I made myself go out and just get a mile or two, whatever I could manage, and now I finally have fewer miles left than days left in the year. Right now, I have less than 62 miles left in the year for my goal of 1,234 miles. It is funny how my understanding and perception of distance has changed over the years. When I first started running in 2013, if someone had told me that I needed to run 62 miles, I would have been scared and nervous and worried that it was impossible. Now, I just know I need to take it a day at a time and slowly grind that number to zero.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 256
Distance: 1,172.22 miles
Total Time: 181h 06m 04s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.58 miles
Total Calories: 159,793
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:16 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 64
Miles Left in Year: 61.78 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 0.97 miles

Saturday, October 20, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #46

A freak snowstorm in October. Just another wonder of Wisconsin. Because of the wacky weather this month, I've only been able to run 12 out of 20 days so far. Kind of a bummer, because I now have less than 85 miles to get to my goal of 1,234 miles in this year, and it seems like things are progressing slowly. When I could run every single day, the mileage added up quickly. Now, not so much. Oh, well, I'm still doing fine, but I'm at the point now where I would be quite content to have this over an done with.

Manley running on October 20, 2018. Where did this snow come from?
Current yearly stats:

Runs: 247
Distance: 1,149.19 miles
Total Time: 177h 04m 45s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.65 miles
Total Calories: 156,687
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:15 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 72
Miles Left in Year: 84.81 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.18 miles

Sunday, October 14, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #45

I squeezed in some longer runs this weekend, even though it has been much colder lately. Frost every morning and the wind hurts when it blows on any exposed skin. But, on the plus side, I've finally (finally!) gotten under 100 miles left for the year. It is starting to seem possible now. It is starting to feel real, and the end is in my sights. I can do this.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 242
Distance: 1,135.44 miles
Total Time: 174h 57m 28s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.69 miles
Total Calories: 154,781
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:15 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 78
Miles Left in Year: 98.56 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.26 miles

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #44

The name of the game is bad weather. Too much rain, ground too wet, no good time to run. Out of the nine days in October so far, I've only been able to run on four of them. So, I'm essentially stuck and my mileage isn't going anywhere. I am just over 1,119 miles for the year. It feels like I've hit a brick wall and cannot move forward. Sometimes this Wisconsin weather is so depressing and frustrating.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 239
Distance: 1,119.18 miles
Total Time: 172h 37m 02s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.68 miles
Total Calories: 152,556
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:15 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 83
Miles Left in Year: 114.82 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.38 miles

Sunday, September 30, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #43

Days are getting shorter and colder now. Sunrise isn't until 7 AM and temps are in the upper-30s when I wake up. Kinda chilly and depressing. These last two hundred miles are shaping up to be the roughest. Case in point, I ran out of energy today, so I was only able to complete a four mile run instead of the eight I had planned. Some days I have lots of energy and other days I don't. Usually I can get some energy back by taking a day or two off, which I have done recently, but then I fear that I'm losing days and miles that I won't be able to get back. I have 92 days left and 135 miles to go. In some ways, this year has flown by and in other ways, it has crawled. I will push on.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 235
Distance: 1,098.74 miles
Total Time: 169h 42m 43s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.68 miles
Total Calories: 149,756
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:16 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 92
Miles Left in Year: 135.26 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.47 miles

Sunday, September 23, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #42

Well, I took two days off (Sept 20 and 21) due to weather and family obligations. Then, I ran back-to-back half-marathons on Saturday and Sunday. This is the first time in my life I've ever accomplished that. In other words, I ran a marathon distance over two mornings. I feel pretty good. I didn't know how my legs would respond on the second day, but things went just fine. Good weather and good music made the 4 hours and 8 minutes quickly pass on by.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 229
Distance: 1,075.97 miles
Total Time: 166h 07m 29s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.70 miles
Total Calories: 146,639
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:16 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 99
Miles Left in Year: 158.03 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.60 miles

Monday, September 17, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #41

I pulled a lower abdominal muscle late last week. It is on the same right side where my hip tendon has been sore. It has hampered my running for several days and forced me to run very little. I'm still trying to stay focused and get to 103 miles for the month, but this whole month has been weird. Ever since I got to 1,000 miles, everything feels harder. It is harder to run, harder to stay motivated, harder to finish runs, and harder to get out there. Weather has been a factor on some days, but I believe today is the last hot and humid day for awhile, so that should make it easier. Maybe I'm just mentally fatigued and need some sort of reset. Only 193 miles to go. Only 105 days left in the year. Something's gotta give.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 224
Distance: 1,040.59 miles
Total Time: 160h 33m 42s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.65 miles
Total Calories: 141,751
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:15 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 105
Miles Left in Year: 193.41 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.84 miles

Saturday, September 8, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #40

Huzzah. I am over the 1,000 mile barrier for the second year in a row, but this year, I really cranked it up a few notches. Last year, it took me 333 days to complete 1,000 miles. This year, I was able to do the same mileage in 248 days (from January 1, 2018, to September 5, 2018). I took a day off from running on September 4th, which I'm not sure if it hurt or helped me, because shortly after, I've developed a small, annoying pain in my right hip area. Other than that, I'm feeling good right now. So, we'll see how that plays out. The days are getting cooler and shorter, so I'm forced to do most runs in the evening now. I miss the quiet time of my morning runs.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 216
Distance: 1,011.64 miles
Total Time: 155h 59m 40s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.68 miles
Total Calories: 137,745
Avg Speed: 6.8 mph
Avg Pace: 9:15 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 114
Miles Left in Year: 222.36 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 1.95 miles

Monday, September 3, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #39

There! I did it! I finally finished 100 consecutive running days in a row. I started on Sunday, May 27th and finished today, Monday, September 3rd. Boy, it felt like it took forever to get this goal completed, but here I am. All done. For those 100 days, I ended up running 534.65 miles in 78 hours, 50 minutes, and 58 seconds. My average daily mileage was approximately 5.34 miles.

Only a few more goals left this year, including attempting PRs for 1K, 1 mile, 5K, and maybe 10K.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 212
Distance: 995.28 miles
Total Time: 153h 39m 41s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.69 miles
Total Calories: 135,489
Avg Speed: 6.8 mph
Avg Pace: 9:16 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 119
Miles Left in Year: 238.72 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.01 miles

Friday, August 31, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #38

I finished August 2018 with 140.44 miles, so I only have 19 more miles to get to 1,000. I should be able to hit that in the first week of September. To put that in perspective, it took me until the middle of December to get 1,000 miles last year. Also, only three more days to get to 100 running days in a row. It has become a relentless grind, and I'll be happy when it is over and the pressure of running every day is gone. But I'll also be happy with myself for sticking to this tough goal and completing it. But I'm getting a little ahead of myself. Still three more days to go. I can do this.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 209
Distance: 981.73 miles
Total Time: 151h 52m 29s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.70 miles
Total Calories: 133,614
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 122
Miles Left in Year: 252.27 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.07 miles

Sunday, August 26, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #37

I ran 16.2 miles yesterday, besting my previous long distance PR by 1.2 miles, in 2 hours and 32 minutes. My lungs and legs felt good. My feet, however, were slowly turning to mush under the constant onslaught of loose pebbles and rocks that had wormed their way into my shoes. My feet didn't hurt exactly, but it was just annoying enough to always be present with each step. Oh, and my socks and pants were wet because of recent rain. I have less than 29 miles to go before hitting 1,000 miles, which is pretty amazing, because that was my total distance for all of 2017, and here we are, still in August 2018 with 127 days left. Another milestone to be proud of: I am over 150 running hours for the year, which is equal to 6.25 days, which makes me wonder, if I hadn't run, what would I have done instead with all that time?

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 204
Distance: 971.23 miles
Total Time: 150h 21m 12s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.76 miles
Total Calories: 132,163
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:17 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 127
Miles Left in Year: 262.77 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.07 miles

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #36

My running enthusiasm is starting to wane. Today was my 88th running day in a row. This matches my record from last year. This consecutive running goal is always tougher than it sounds at the beginning of the year, because 88 days doesn't seem like much when you briefly think about it. But then I get in the middle of it, and after one month I've only gone 30 days, I realize I may have made a big mistake, lol. But I'm determined to keep going to 100 days in a row, if I can make it. The only thing that will derail me is the weather. My body is tired but good overall.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 200
Distance: 943.68 miles
Total Time: 146h 16m 54s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.72 miles
Total Calories: 128,368
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:18 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 131
Miles Left in Year: 290.32 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.22 miles

Thursday, August 16, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #35

Okay, I am over 900 miles for the year now. I'm in a great position to get my yearly goal of 1,234 miles. At the rate I'm going, I'll be done around the middle of November. I noticed that 2,000 kilometers is equal to about 1,243 miles, so I might just go the extra nine miles to get that nice round number. Otherwise, my body feels good, and mentally I'm doing fine. I'm on my 82nd consecutive running day. I hope to get a few more PRs this year, mainly the 1K and 1 mile. I tried a fast one miler yesterday with my son and ended up a few seconds short with a 6:35 pace. I have a feeling I can do better once the cooler Autumn weather rolls around and I'm finished with my 100 days in a row goal.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 193
Distance: 914.40 miles
Total Time: 141h 38m 56s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.74 miles
Total Calories: 124,321
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:18 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 137
Miles Left in Year: 319.6 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.33 miles

Saturday, August 11, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #34

I had planned to do a longer run today. I was thinking somewhere around ten miles. It was just supposed to be something different than the four mile runs I have been doing since the beginning of the month. Everything clicked today. The weather was great, temperature was great, and my body felt pretty good and energetic. I kept running and running trying to stay around an 8 min/mile pace. As the miles went by, I started to think half-marathon. And so I gave it all I had and screamed into the air repeatedly, "Come on! Run!" I somehow shaved off 5 minutes and 11 seconds to end up with a new half-marathon PR. My time was 1 hour, 45 minutes, and 23 seconds. I am very excited about this. Here is a screenshot of my mile splits.


Current yearly stats:

Runs: 185
Distance: 894.55 miles
Total Time: 138h 40m 06s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.84 miles
Total Calories: 121,572
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:18 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 142
Miles Left in Year: 339.45 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.39 miles

Sunday, August 5, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #33

Okay, I'm staying true to my plan to take it easier than last month and run about 4 miles each day. My consecutive run streak is at 71 days (May 27-present). I'm going for 100 days in a row. My body feels very good right now. My right ankle is healing up. I'm tying my shoelaces tighter to see if the extra stabilization prevents it from getting worse. It has been colder the last five days with temps in the upper-50s to low-60s in the morning when I run, and the sunrises are getting later and later. All signs are pointing to autumn approaching, and I'm not ready for that yet. Where did the summer go?

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 179
Distance: 861.32 miles
Total Time: 133h 45m 03s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.81 miles
Total Calories: 117,023
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:19 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 148
Miles Left in Year: 372.68 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.52 miles

Tuesday, July 31, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #32

It was tiring towards the end of this month, but I was able to finish July with 200 miles. I averaged 6.46 miles per day to have my highest mileage month ever. This beats my previous best of 190 miles in July of last year. The 200 miles took 29 hours, 33 minutes, and 32 seconds. I burned 27,592 calories.

I also have less than 400 miles to run over the remaining five months get my yearly goal of 1,234 miles. I'm feeling pretty good. I knew July would be my most grueling month, so now I just plan to keep it light and run three to four miles per day. I'm still in the middle of my consecutive running streak, too. I have finished 66 days in a row. I'm heading for 100.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 174
Distance: 841.28 miles
Total Time: 130h 58m 41s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.83 miles
Total Calories: 114,263
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:20 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 153
Miles Left in Year: 392.72 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.57 miles


Wednesday, July 25, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #31

A few days ago, I decided to divide the seven daily miles I need into two runs per day. This allowed me to sleep in a bit more in the morning before work. So, I've been running 4 miles before work and 3 miles after work each day. I'll keep at this until the end of the month. I'm excited that 200 miles for July is within my grasp. I'm currently at 156.65 miles with six days to go. I'm also super close to 800 miles total for the year, so I'm very happy with my current status. Things are going very well. My only nagging injury is my right ankle and/or my Achilles tendon area. I'm not sure if it is my shoe causing the issue or just my running motion. Once this month is over, I'm going to be switching to 3 or 4 mile runs with an August goal of getting a 5K PR. I'm hoping with fewer miles my right ankle will heal up.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 165
Distance: 797.68 miles
Total Time: 124h 10m 25s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.83 miles
Total Calories: 108,256
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:20 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 159
Miles Left in Year: 436.32 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.74 miles

Friday, July 20, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #30

Well, some days I feel worn down and other days I feel just fine. Today, I felt fine and finished a 7.3 mile run. To even have a chance to get my secondary goal of 200 miles this month, I'm going to need to pound out 7 miles every day until the end of July. Basically, if I can run a decent pace for one hour straight, I can get it. Only 11 more after today. I am staying optimistic and taking one day at a time. No real injuries to worry about, just a few aches here and there. I am over 100,000 calories burned for the year, and it is really exciting to see I have less than 470 miles to go for my 1,234 mile goal and five whole months left.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 158
Distance: 764.80 miles
Total Time: 119h 19m 34s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.84 miles
Total Calories: 103,710
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:22 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 164
Miles Left in Year: 469.20 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.86 miles

Sunday, July 15, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #29

Today is my 50th day in a row of running. It is also the halfway point of July, and coincidentally, also my halfway point to my goal of 100 days in a row. Since it is July 15th, I decided to do a 15K (9.3 miler). I felt pretty good, but was tired at the end. I tried to work on my slow and steady breathing throughout the run. The sun was out most of the time with the humidity pretty high. My shirt became useless around mile 5 because it was completely soaked. I see I am just shy of 100,000 calories burned on the year, and I am under 500 miles left in my yearly goal of 1,234 miles. This is all good news.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 153
Distance: 737.10 miles
Total Time: 115h 07m 21s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.82 miles
Total Calories: 99,894
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:22 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 169
Miles Left in Year: 496.90 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 2.94 miles

Saturday, July 7, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #28

My running streak is still alive. I'm at 42 days in a row. This last week has been humid and hot and shirt-soaking every day. I've been running in the morning when it is cooler, but the humidity is still around 100% each day. My right Achilles's tendon is a little sore, but otherwise, my body feels good. The year is halfway over, and I feel good with my mileage so far. I'm really trying to accumulate a lot this month by running an hour every morning and getting about 7 miles each day. Last July was my highest mileage month ever with 190 miles. I'm going to try to beat that this month.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 145
Distance: 690.90 miles
Total Time: 108h 26m 01s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.76 miles
Total Calories: 93,532
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:25 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 177
Miles Left in Year: 543.10 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.09 miles

Saturday, June 30, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #27

I ended June with 152.17 miles, which is my second highest mileage month ever. My best is last July's 190 miles. I am sitting at 641.03 miles for the year, which gives me a nice buffer of about 24 miles. I hope to continue adding to the buffer in July and continue my consecutive run streak, which after today's run, I am at 35 days in a row. Another milestone this month: I passed over 100 hours of running for the year. So, overall, this was a good month of running with very few injuries or pains.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 138
Distance: 641.03 miles
Total Time: 101h 25m 09s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.65 miles
Total Calories: 86,671
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:30 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 184
Miles Left in Year: 592.97 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.22 miles

Monday, June 25, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #26

I just finished my 30th running day in a row, and that officially puts me over the halfway mark for my yearly mileage. I am just over 617 miles for the year, heading to 1,234 miles by end of 2018. I have five days left in this month, and I am at 129.06 miles. This is my best month so far, and it isn't over yet, so I'm going to keep running to build my buffer up.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 133
Distance: 617.92 miles
Total Time: 97h 59m 01s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.65 miles
Total Calories: 83,489
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:31 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 189
Miles Left in Year: 616.08 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.26 miles

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #25

I have a good groove going right now. I've been getting up early in the morning and running before work. Except for a few days with rainy mornings, this schedule has been working out. I finished my 25th running day in a row today with a 7 miler. I am over my monthly mileage goal with 10 days left in June. I am at 104.82 miles for the month and 593.68 for the year. By the end of June, I need to be at 617 miles, so I am only 23.32 miles from my halfway point of 1,234 miles for the year. My confidence is currently high. I hope the nice, cool mornings continue for a long time.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 128
Distance: 593.68 miles
Total Time: 94h 25m 11s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.64 miles
Total Calories: 80,153
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:33 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 194
Miles Left in Year: 640.32 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.30 miles

Thursday, June 14, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #24

I just finished my 19th day in a row of running. I'm hoping to get 100 days in a row, but that'll take me into September, which seems like so far in the future. I'm making really good progress this month. I'm at 73.11 miles on day 14. I did a 7 miler today that felt really good. I don't have any real injuries to complain about, just a few small aches and pains. For example, my right ankle aches for the first mile or so and then the pain just goes away for the rest of a run. That seems weird, but I'm not concerned at this point. Otherwise, the weather has been great in the mornings, which is when I'm trying really hard to do all my runs. The month is almost half over, and I'm only about 30 miles away from my monthly goal of 103 miles. At the rate I'm going (knock on wood), I should be at my monthly goal in about 5 or 6 days and then I can use the remainder of the month to chip away at the mileage deficit I've accumulated since February.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 122
Distance: 561.97 miles
Total Time: 89h 49m 09s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.61 miles
Total Calories: 75,778
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:35 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 200
Miles Left in Year: 672.03 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.36 miles

Friday, June 8, 2018

Thursday, June 7, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #23

Well, I had a good running experience this morning. The weather was nice and my body felt decent. I completed an 8 miler averaging 8:13 min/mile. I'm hopeful I'll be able to make up some of the mileage deficit I've accrued the last five months. I'm at about 32 miles for the month, so that makes me feel good. By the end of the month, I need to be at 617 miles to be on pace for my 1,234 mile goal for 2018.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 115
Distance: 520.60 miles
Total Time: 83h 44m 43s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.57 miles
Total Calories: 70,082
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Avg Pace: 9:39 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 207
Miles Left in Year: 713.40 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.45 miles

Thursday, May 31, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #22

Wow, this was a tough month. It came down to the last day, but I was able to sneak in a seven mile morning run before work and get my monthly mileage goal completed. I ended with 103.21 miles for May. That's the good news. The bad news is I'm about 26 miles behind for the year. I should be at 515 miles (103 miles x 5 months) at end of May, but both February and April were bad months, and I fell behind. So, with seven months left, I'll need to spread that out and try to get ahead. I hope everything works out.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 107
Distance: 488.86 miles
Total Time: 79h 12m 23s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.57 miles
Total Calories: 65,709
Avg Speed: 6.2 mph
Avg Pace: 9:43 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 214
Miles Left in Year: 745.14 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.48 miles

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #21

Well, I'm trying hard to get mileage. I really am. I did back-to-back 8 mile runs on Sunday and Monday. I know I have to get my monthly mileage this month or I'll be in big trouble. I can't keep slowly going backwards, so hopefully over these next three days I can get over 103 miles and maybe chip away at my deficit. Right now for May, I have 91.04 miles, so only about 12 left. Weather has been good.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 104
Distance: 476.69 miles
Total Time: 77h 10m 52s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.58 miles
Total Calories: 64,086
Avg Speed: 6.2 mph
Avg Pace: 9:43 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 216
Miles Left in Year: 757.31 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.51 miles

Thursday, May 17, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #20

I completed a 7 miler tonight, but it was a long time coming. I've been nursing an injury on the bottom of my left foot, near the big joint in my second toe.  I may have injured it last Saturday sprinting on a school track during a middle school track meet. The foot pain was annoying and would hurt me just about every step. But finally today, it felt much better, and I didn't let the chance get away. The sun was out, a breeze was blowing, and I was running. I have a lot of mileage to catch-up. I'm only at 46.10 miles for this month with 14 days to go to get 103. That averages out to about four miles each day for rest of the month. We'll see how it goes.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 95
Distance: 431.75 miles
Total Time: 70h 20m 14s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.54 miles
Total Calories: 57,900
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:46 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 228
Miles Left in Year: 802.25 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.52 miles

Wednesday, May 9, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #19

Okay, nine days into May and doing okay. I'm still on pace for my monthly goal. I have 28.18 miles so far, so I need to average about 3.5 every day left. Last Saturday I participated in a middle school track meet by running as a community member in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1 mile races. I was not used to sprinting so much, so my hamstrings are pretty tight and sore. I'm feeling better today, though. In my 1 mile race, I ended up with 7 min 06 seconds, which is my best time this year. I am over 400 miles for the year, so I am one-third of the way to my 1,234 mile goal.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 86
Distance: 413.84 miles
Total Time: 67h 27m 05s
Avg Distance Per Run: 4.81 miles
Total Calories: 55,539
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:47 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 236
Miles Left in Year: 820.16 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.48 miles

Sunday, May 6, 2018

Sam Needs to Go - Funny Children's Book Available on Amazon

Sam Needs to Go is a funny children's book about a boy who really needs to use the bathroom but finds trouble at every turn. Great fun with simple pictures for kids and adults.

Kid Tested/Teacher Approved in the bowels of an elementary school, this book is guaranteed to get readers smiling and laughing. Check out Sam Needs to Go today on Amazon.




Monday, April 30, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #18

I ended up with 93.61 miles for April. That is 9.39 miles short of my 103 mile monthly goal. I was going to try to get the whole enchilada tonight, but something unexpected came up at my house (ah, the joys of owning a home), and my plans were thwarted. I still think this is okay, because if this summer acts like a normal summer, I can ramp up my mileage in June and July and get back on track. Anyway, for the year, I am now 26.35 miles short of where I should be at end of April. I am trying to stay positive.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 75
Distance: 385.65 miles
Total Time: 63h 11m 57s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.14 miles
Total Calories: 51,763
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:50 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 245
Miles Left in Year: 848.35 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.46 miles

Saturday, April 28, 2018

Words Can Be Great - new book available on Amazon

A New Book Approaches!!!

Words Can Be Great

This rhyming book shows you just how many amazing words there are to use in your life. If you choose the right words, your message will be powerful. Great for all ages and vocabularies.

Paperback and eBook available on Amazon.


Saturday, April 21, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #17

Finally some nice sunny weather deep into the month of April. Temps in the low 50s the last few days. It actually feels like spring wants to stick around. But, I have a lot of mileage to make up in April. I have 9 days left to run before the end of the month, and I'm going to need about 5.8 miles each day to get to my goal of 103 miles per month. It will be a struggle, but doable if weather holds up.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 67
Distance: 342.83 miles
Total Time: 56h 47m 16s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.12 miles
Total Calories: 45,872
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 9:56 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 254
Miles Left in Year: 891.17 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.51 miles

Sunday, April 8, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #16

Well, April had a huge snow storm that dumped a foot of snow over a few days, so running was out of the equation for me. So, I have only finished four runs out of eight days. To try to compensate for lost mileage, I ran a little longer on a few of those days. I am at 22.34 miles out of 103 for the month. That leaves about 80 miles to go in roughly 22 days, or about 3.6 miles per day. If the weather gets better, I should be able to get that.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 60
Distance: 314.38 miles
Total Time: 51h 52m 29s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.24 miles
Total Calories: 42,216
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:54 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 267
Miles Left in Year: 919.62 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.44 miles

Saturday, March 31, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #15

Okay, I have three months wrapped up and in the books. I completed my mileage goal this month plus a little extra to help with my deficit from February. I am still 16.96 miles behind where I would like to be (292.04 miles vs 309 miles), but that is okay. I fully intend to ramp up the mileage in the summer months when the weather is better. The weather's unpredictability is sadly predictable. Just when the mild temperatures were melting the snow and most of it was gone where I live, Mother Nature decided to dump about six inches last night. So, we are back to a winter wonderland and cold, snowy runs, I guess.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 56
Distance: 292.04 miles
Total Time: 48h 12m 16s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.21 miles
Total Calories: 39,185
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:54 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 275
Miles Left in Year: 941.96 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.43 miles

Thursday, March 22, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #14

This month is a drag. It just feels like it is going on and on as slowly as possible. I think it is mostly due to the daily cold mornings that give way to mild afternoons while the ground continues to be rock hard in one spot and three inches of mud in another. March is that weird transition month, and it is screwing up my mojo. However, I am at 84 miles for the month, and so I have 9 days to get 19 more. I should make it to my 103 miles per month goal this time. Also, bonus, I am finally under 1,000 miles left in the year.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 51
Distance: 272.80 miles
Total Time: 44h 23m 11s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.35 miles
Total Calories: 36,977
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:46 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 284
Miles Left in Year: 961.20 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.38 miles

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Do You Like My Drawings? - New Children's Book Available

My newest children's book Do You Like My Drawings? is available now on Amazon.

This silly, funny, read-aloud will make children of all ages laugh and giggle at the goofy drawings.

The poor artist needs your help deciding if his drawings are good or bad. Sometimes he has trouble drawing something as simple as a circle or a pair of scissors. Do you think you can get through the whole book without laughing? And maybe give the artist a word of encouragement, while you are at it?

Click this link to check it out.


Friday, March 9, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #13

Temperatures are much better lately. Mostly mid-30s and some low-40s. The dirt loop I run on is mostly muddy and slushy right now, so I have to carefully pick my way around for fear of losing a shoe. I'm trying to front load my mileage this month, just in case we get another heavy snowfall later in the month. I feel like I'm making good progress this month. I have a little over 42 miles in the first 9 days, of which I've only been able to run 7 times.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 41
Distance: 227.92 miles
Total Time: 37h 06m 26s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.56 miles
Total Calories: 31,121
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:46 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 297
Miles Left in Year: 1006.08 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.39 miles

Sunday, March 4, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #12

Decent weather so far in March. Mostly in 30s to low 40s. Ground is soft and muddy in large sections, but perfectly fine in others. I ran an eight miler today, which finally gets me caught up with February's goal of 103 miles. So, currently sitting at about four days behind schedule, which sounds bad, but if you consider I was seven days behind in February before I even finished my first run in that month, this isn't too bad.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 37
Distance: 206.25 miles
Total Time: 33h 39m 49s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.57 miles
Total Calories: 28,150
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:48 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 302
Miles Left in Year: 1027.75 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.40 miles

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #11

Well, February was a bad, bad man, er month. If it wasn't freezing wind and piles of snow, it was wet slippery slush and mud all over my running loop. Oh, well, I gotta believe this is the worst month. It is out of the way. Now, going forward, all the rest of the months should have mostly good running weather (knock on wood). I failed to get my mileage goal this month, which again, I was going for 103 miles per month to get over 1,234 for the year. But I am proud of the way I finished the month out, because I couldn't even get my first run done until February 7th, and I still ended up with about 82 miles. By the end of the month, I had finished two seven milers and three 10Ks. And I'm on an eight day in a row running streak. Bring on March.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 34
Distance: 185.64 miles
Total Time: 30h 29m 42s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.46 miles
Total Calories: 25,311
Avg Speed: 6.1 mph
Avg Pace: 9:51 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 306
Miles Left in Year: 1048.36 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.43 miles

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Bloated Goat - Humorous Middle Grade Fantasy Book

Bloated Goat is a cartoon that comes to life in your head. Get ready to enjoy a gut-busting adventure full of crazy forest animals and hijinks galore. You’ll meet Granny Hammy, Cocky Doodle, Bloated Goat, and a wide assortment of wacky characters as they romp around the forest in this ill-conceived (but humorous!) plot. Watch in horror as the author tries to tie everything together with an explosive ending that you'll probably see coming a mile away.

Give Bloated Goat a chance to make you blow milk out your nose.



Tuesday, February 20, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #10

Well, the month of February has not gone as planned. But I'm just trying to roll with it. I cannot control the icy and cold weather, so I am trying to be positive. I've only been able to run eight times so far this month. My goal per month is finishing 103 miles. I have 40.64 miles done with only nine more days counting today, so I won't get that goal. All that means is that I'll have to add on that extra mileage to other months, probably in summer when the weather is good and I have more time.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 26
Distance: 143.92 miles
Total Time: 23h 52m 00s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.54 miles
Total Calories: 19,574
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 9:57 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 314
Miles Left in Year: 1090.08 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.47 miles

Thursday, February 15, 2018

Sam Needs to Go - Available Now on Amazon Kindle

Without further ado (or is that adoodoo?), I present a mildly funny poem about a boy's bathroom troubles in Sam Needs to Go.

Great fun for anybody born with a non-working digestive system or finicky colon. You can get it on Amazon.


Saturday, February 10, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #9

February has been a hard month. The first six days were not good for running. Too cold, too much snow, too much wind. So, I stayed indoors. Now, with the weather slightly better, it is crunch time. If I want to hit 103 miles for the month, I need to run at least five miles each remaining day.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 22
Distance: 121.61 miles
Total Time: 20h 07m 16s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.53 miles
Total Calories: 16,624
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 9:57 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 324
Miles Left in Year: 1112.39 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.43 miles

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

SpaceX - Falcon Heavy

That was about the coolest thing I've seen. Just watched the SpaceX Falcon Heavy make history. That simultaneous rocket landing was so neat. This makes me hopeful for the future when we can put aside our petty differences and focus on humanity's place in the cosmos. We need to expand into space. We need to take this stepping stone and keep pushing our knowledge and science farther, because advances in space technology will help us on earth, too.


Sunday, January 28, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #8

Well, I think my January running is done for now. I wanted to get to 103 miles which is roughly one-twelfth of 1,234 miles for the year. So, mission accomplished. Now, I want to rest my hips for the next few days, and then it is on to February and going for another 103 miles.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 18
Distance: 103.28 miles
Total Time: 17h 17m 19s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.74 miles
Total Calories: 14,138
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 10:03 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 337
Miles Left in Year: 1130.72 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.36 miles

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #7

Still January and still lots of snow and cold weather around here. There have been some warmer days sprinkled in, but they are usually accompanied by bad wind chills. I'm still on track to get 100+ miles this month, which compared to last year's January total of 30 miles, is really good for me. I figure if I can average 103 miles per month, that'll get me to 1,234-ish miles for the year.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 16
Distance: 94.78 miles
Total Time: 15h 49m 30s
Avg Distance Per Run: 5.92 miles
Total Calories: 12,950
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 10:01 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 342
Miles Left in Year: 1139.22 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.33 miles

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #6

Due to cold and snowfall, I've had to take a few days off here and there. I'm still running way more mileage this month compared to last year's January. So, all-in-all, a good start to the year, but I'm definitely looking forward to warmer weather and better running conditions to run faster times. I have completed thirteen 10K runs in sixteen days.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 13
Distance: 81.27 miles
Total Time: 13h 38m 48s
Avg Distance Per Run: 6.25 miles
Total Calories: 11,090
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 10:05 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 349
Miles Left in Year: 1152.73 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.30 miles

Friday, January 12, 2018

Thursday, January 11, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #5

Running in the snow with nothing but my apron on. And all my triple layers of clothes, too. The ice was pretty bad, the wind was pretty bad, but all in all, it wasn't horrible. Decent temps in the lower 30s. This makes ten 10K runs in eleven days.


Tuesday, January 9, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #4

Nine 10K runs in nine days. Good lord, I am bored out of my gourd. I'm sick of talking to myself. I'm a poor conversationalist. The landscape is desolate and uninspiring. The coldness bites. Once in a while I run past a pretty lady, but that's the only highlight.

Monday, January 8, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #3

Well, I almost lost my lunch while running yesterday. I have to be more careful and plan my days better. In other words, don't eat a huge, spicy meal and then immediately run a 10K. But, nevertheless, I did finish the run (feeling much better after three miles in), and now I have finished a 10K for seven days straight. I'll keep going as long as I can. I haven't completely settled on a new running goal in 2018, but I kinda like the idea of trying for 1,234 miles (just because). If I do stick with the 1,234 miles, it won't be the only goal. I would like to set some more PRs in my 1K, 1 Mile, and 5K runs. And increase my longest distance.

Current yearly stats:

Runs: 7
Distance: 43.73 miles
Total Time: 7h 17m 47s
Avg Distance Per Run: 6.25 miles
Total Calories: 5,996
Avg Speed: 6.0 mph
Avg Pace: 10:01 min/mile

Days Left in Year: 358
Miles Left in Year: 1190.27 miles (from 1,234)
Daily Average Needed: 3.32 miles

Friday, January 5, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #2

Cold and lifeless. That describes my last four runs on planet Earth. But, nevertheless, I have persisted. I hope to run my 5th day in a row tonight. So far, I've finished a 10K each night after work, usually fumbling for the stop button on my GPS watch in the dark. The whole process is kinda exhilarating. First, I take about five to ten minutes to get dressed and stretch. It takes this long because I have to wear three pairs of socks, three pairs of pants, four shirts, a face mask, two winter hats, and a combo of gloves and mittens. In addition, my wife has been kind enough to wrap a large scarf around my neck (only once choking me, on accident, I'm sure). Then, I start my run at sunset, which is around 4:30 PM here. As I run for the next hour on the snow-covered dirt loop by my house, I can watch the sun actively sinking lower and lower until hidden by the trees and horizon. My eyes try to adjust to the darkness, but at a certain point, it is very tough to see anything much more than five feet from me. It is cold. The temperatures have been in the negative double-digits for days. It is quiet, mostly, with a dog bark occasionally cutting across a distant farmer's field. My feet crunch the snow, stepping and stomping in the thousands of shoe prints that I created earlier. Finally, once I stop running and walk to my driveway, the cold pounces and attacks my flesh. I feel the cold burn instantly on my calves, thighs, and arms, and I'm amazed at the speed of how I can change from being warm and comfortable to cold and miserable. My face, neck, and back, soaked with sweat, start to freeze and prod my brain. "Hey, buddy, it's me, your [insert faithful body appendage]. I'm cold. This sucks. Get me out of here." I head home...but not too quickly. I want to relish in my triumph. Another run, another day done. No one else experienced what I just went through. It was fun. Onto the next.

Monday, January 1, 2018

2018 Running Goal - Update #1

First day of the year, but I have no running goal. But something will come to me. I went out and ran 6.22 miles today. Not very fast, though. Very cold and just enough freezing wind to make me rethink my life. At one point, my sweat must have froze on the very small exposed surface of my forehead between my face muffler and my hat, because it felt like an ice pick slowly entering my brain. Kinda like an awful ice cream headache. But other than that, running in a below zero tundra is fun, lol. Another funny thing - my two hats were frozen together when I took them off in the house.