Running Part Deux

MONDAY MONDAY...

2009-02-16T10:46:00.003-05:00

It is becoming a little bit harder than I thought it would be to run with my current parenting schedule, especially every other weekend when I have them. Both my little ones, Jack(5) and Chloe(4) have had pretty nasty colds this past week. The prospect of taking them out to Stony on Saturday morning at 8am just didn't seem like good parenting to me, but I can't help but feel bad about missing my group training.
That said I am getting the miles in. Today is my long run day, 8 miles. Most of my runs have been smooth and without incident lately. My only concern is the added pounds from a winter of nothingness around my waist and the effect it is having on my joints.

Thanks for checking in, more to come later this week,

RPD.

In Tokyo, a bicycle is faster than a car for most trips of less than 50 minutes!

2sday.......

2009-02-10T15:33:00.003-05:00

A few things are rolling around in the space between my ears today....

First things first, training is going as well as I would have figured, considering I am a big fat guy training for a marathon. I missed my run last Saturday, but got a long run in Sunday. Today's run was OK. The weather here in Michigan was perfect today, mid 50s with a mix of sun and clouds. I tend to get real bummed when my runs don't go very well. Half of my run today was into a 10 to 15 mph wind, boy did that suck!! None-the-less I did run, I got the miles in and I feel better for it.
Back to the rolling...two sayings popped into my head today... 1. Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger and 2. God doesn't give you anything you can't handle.

I WANT PROOF.... Is there someone who can show me a study?

I have been dealing with a lot lately and I don't feel stronger, mentally or physically. Actually, more times than not I feel like turning turtle and crawling into my shell to hide. Running is by far the best stress reliever I have found, but sometimes it just isn't enough. Life keeps piling on!!! My divorce, friend of the court, rent, unemployment, trying to give the kids some sense of normalcy, the bills...yada yada yada!!!!!
On to number 2.... as down and out as I feel. As miserable, self loathing, fill in the blank here I feel. I cannot imagine being in the situation of millions of people out there with blood cancers. As most everyone who happens across this blog knows I raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This time around my "honored hero" is Eunice. She is an incredible person, with more zest for life and energy than I could ever hope to have. How can I complain about my day today?? The few times I have met her she is always upbeat and grateful. Grateful?? I am speechless... the bills, the misfortunes in my life pale to what she is going through. And she thanks me for what I am doing.. God doesn't give you anything you can't handle....

AMEN...and thank you Eunice!!!

R.P.D.

one of my favorites and one I have posted b4...

"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."

HE'S BACK.......again...

2009-02-06T11:53:00.003-05:00

The old saying, "If I had a nickel for every time I heard that..." come to mind. I decided to wait a few weeks to make sure I was really going to start training again before I posted. That and the fact that I told my teammates about my blog!
Yup, I signed up for number 3. 26.2 miles of memories, blisters, and fun. Well maybe not the blisters!! On June 20th I will be running in the Mayor's Midnight Sun Marathon, Anchorage Alaska and I can't wait. After a long winter of nothing but laziness it feel great to be on the road again. Well, with this weather more like on the tread mill again, but the sentiment is the same.
Please stop by my fundraising web page
http://pages.teamintraining.org/mi/anchor09/rdelisle

More to come... I PROMISE THIS TIME!!!!!

R.P.D.

You can't plow a cotton field with an elephant in North Carolina. just in case you were thinking about it!!!!

FEELS SO GOOD TO FEEL SO BAD...

2008-10-01T14:28:00.003-04:00

After trying to figure a way out of it, which I seem to do way too often of late, I decided a run was in order. So I called my daughter to see if she wanted to ride along with me for 3 miles. Since I don't live with my kids full time anymore any excuse I can find to spend time with them is a bonus and I REALLY needed the company. I feel really fat and self conscience so she was a nice distraction. Talking about school and work and evrything else that 11 year olds and their dads talk about. Before I knew it we were done and I could barely stand up! My heart was pounding out of my chest, my legs throbbing, my back stiff as a board. And I loved every minute of it. I felt alive again, after nearly a month of no running it really feels good to "feel". The thing about sitting around and doing "nothing" is you feel nothing. More to come...

R.P.D.

In New York State, it is still illegal to shoot a rabbit from a moving trolley car.

HAPPY FREAKIN' MONDAY EVERYONE.....

2008-09-29T08:26:00.004-04:00

So after another long hiatus and another handful of excuses I am going to start running again today after about a month off. To quote the 12 steppers out there... I am sick and tired of being sick and tired!!!
Sorry for the disappearing act every few months, but I will do my best to keep running through the coming months and when I run, I blog!!!!

R.P.D.

It is against the law to whale hunt in Oklahoma. (Think about it...)

THE PICKLE GRABBER

2008-06-26T07:38:00.004-04:00

In the midst of madness the simplest things can make you smile.....

A little background before we begin. I am settling into my new house, it is spartan to say the least. And lonely at times. Having lived with someone for the better part of 16 years, the adjustment to solitude can be tough. I don't have cable yet and I rarely turn the TV on. the strangest time is dinner time. It is just me, my dinner and what ever mail I happen to get that day.
I was sitting there two days ago in a funk. Worried about bills, money, the kids, yada yada yada. When I happened on a old book "The Tao of Pooh" by Benjamin Hoff. So there I am with my spicy brats, corn on the cob, glass of milk and the local coupon paper and the book. Something was missing, I mean besides all of the usual kid sounds at dinner...pickles. How to get the pickles out of the jar, ahha!! I remember my mother-in-law gave a pickle grabber. Bet you never heard someone say THAT before!! Anyway, there I sit reading the foreword of my book fishing the pickles out of the jar and I found myself smiling. For that brief second all that mattered was fishing those pickles out of the jar and every time I got one....YES!!! It dawned on me how little it really takes to make us happy!
The next day, yesterday, I got to see my kids as they come over on Wednesday after work. You ever watch a kid. I mean just sit back and watch them be happy. They don't need money, cars, video games, TV, nice clothes, jewelery, a bunch of toys. Just put a small group of kids together and a game of hide and go seek and I will show you happiness like nothing you will ever see. I have asked this before, when is the last time you ran for the sake of running, or skipped? You have to be careful where you do that second one!!! The point is, stop for a second, grab the pickle grabber and be happy!!! Life is too short not to!

Have a great day and as always thanks for stopping by.

R.P.D.

P.S.
running again...more to come....

2008-06-16T07:37:00.003-04:00

I was tagged by coach Ken.

Here are the rules as explained to me.Copy the rules (or your version of them) and the set of questions onto your blog post, provide your own answers and then tag 5 new people. If tagged, you’ll find your name at the end of this post.To be sure everyone tagged knows they’ve been invited to play, go to their blogs and leave them a comment notifying and referring them to your blog for details.Lastly, once the chosen have answered the questions on their own blog, they should come back to yours to tell you.

Here are my responses.

1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?

Ten years ago the only running I was doing was to the smoke shop.

2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?

My best race was Nike '06, I think partly because it was my first marathon. I still remember every last detail about that day. The worst has to be the Crim that same year. Leading up to that race I had a miserable week and at mile 2 I was already done both physically and mentally.

3. Why do you run?

I started running shortly after I quit smoking. I felt myself getting fat and did not want to be one of those huge ex smokers!! After barely making back to the house after 1 1/2 miles the couch was looking pretty good, but one week later I was signed up for marathon number one...the rest is history.

4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you’ve been given about running?

Best...finish what you started!!! Worst....I honestly can't think of anything.

5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.

my middle name is Pierre.

Who I am tagging....

Marathondudebill

Dabigleap

Motownrunnergirl

Gr8lakesrunninggal

Amy @ Runners lounge

WHAT A LONG STRANGE TRIP....

2008-06-02T13:38:00.002-04:00

Wow! Almost 4 months since my last post, what a slacker!!! I could probably go back to June of last year and simply copy/paste and it would fit pretty well. I am incredibly out of shape, although according to coach Ken, round is a shape!!!

Finally have some sort of schedule figured out and I am running again on a regular basis. I have a new house, just got back to work after a 6 week lay off and I have about 20 pounds to lose...

Updates to follow and as always thanks for stopping by...

R.P.D.

I AM STILL HERE....

2008-02-14T14:12:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to give my minions, all 3 of you, an update. Because of happenings beyond my control I am taking a break. What does this mean? It means starting over again once I can somehow develop a schedule and a plan to run. Right now it is not a practicality for me to run for various reasons. Working the hours I am along with no cooperation on the home front makes it all but impossible to run, especially when the weather has been so terrible. I am able to sneak out occationally for a quick 3 miles around the house, but I do not feel comfortbale leaving my 11 yr old babysitting her younger brother (5) and sister (3) for longer than that.
With any luck my situation will become easier in a few months and I promise...Ken really I do...to get back out there. I do not like the fact that I have to put my life on hold, no matter what the reason.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day,
R.P.D.

P.S. Best of luck to Bill from marathondudebill.... He is running in Myrtle Beach this weekend. Good luck with your bid to run a sub 2:50:00 You can do it!!!

Champions take chances, and pressure is a privilege.

THE 5 THINGS....

2008-02-07T07:53:00.000-05:00

There are more than 5, but 5 come to mind right off the bat, so that is the number. It is my blog and I get to pick!
The 5 things you want to do/learn before you die... Kind of a bucket list, hmmmm should write that down.
1. Learn to play an instrument...for me it is the piano.
2. Take dancing lessons...ala Dancing with the stars, not break or tap.
3. Go to Europe, Russia, Australia..not necessarily in that order.
4. Walk my daughters down the aisle....this one is kind of up to them.
5. Qualify for and run in the Boston Marathon.

I am thinking Iwill need to run a little more than I have been lately in order to make that last one happen. Patience grasshopper!!!!

Have a great day!
R.P.D.

INTERESTING, BUT USELESS FACTOID OF THE DAY...
Every human spent about half an hour as a single cell.

TOO FUNNY...

2008-02-02T06:49:00.000-05:00

I told one of the guys I bowl with that I haven't run in weeks and he said he hasn't run since he learned to fight!!! I thought that was really funny and figured I'd pass it along.

R.P.D.

TUES 01.22.08

2008-01-22T08:17:00.000-05:00

You know it never really hit until just now. What I do effects how other people, namely my kids, grow and mature. Now of course I already knew this, but it really hit home today while reading a friends blog. His dad, years before ran in a race and won a turkey. He mentioned the fact that dad ran the race without even training for it as a joke. I am pretty sure it was no big deal to him, but it sure was to his son. Things that we will probably never remember can and will change a life!! That is a powerful statement!

Of course as parents we need to set the foundation. Brush your teeth, wash your hands, hold the door open for a lady, watch out for strangers, etc. More important than that, the glue that holds that foundation together, is what we DO more so than what we say. For the most part I run for myself, to get into and to stay in shape. I drag myself to the gym or out of bed on cold mornings or after a long day at work for my satisfaction. So I can be happy about myself and reach the next goal. I obsess about time and mileage. Nobody gets excited when I come home after a sub 36 minute 4 mile run. I usually just get this strange look from them before they go back to their video games or whatever it is they may be doing at the time.

Up until now my kids have only seen me compete in one race and I think the main reason for that was my 12-year-old stepson was running with me. There really hasn’t been a lot of support at the home front. I have to say that I take part of the blame in that only a few of my races have been local. I hope to change that in the upcoming year. Having said that getting up off the couch in the dead of winter or putting in 5 miles before we go to Grandma and Grandpa’s house on the 4th of July has a profound effect on the little ones that up until today has been lost on me.

I guess what I am saying is, as runners we run for ourselves for the most part. In doing so, however, we affect so many people around us. Some of whom we will never meet. The lady driving in the car who lets us cross the street when it is pouring rain. The little kid we give a high five to at mile 20. The person grabbing their mail as we run by in shorts when it is 40 degrees out. Then there are those people we do know and with any luck I will live long enough to be able to hear my grandchildren say to their friends, my Grandpa used to be a runner just like me!

Thanks for stopping by and special thanks to Bill, whose blog inspired me to write this.
R.P.D.

USELESS FACTOID...
Approximately sixty circus performers have been shot from cannons. At last report, thirty-one of these have been killed.

ONE IS THE LONELIEST NUMBER...

2008-01-18T05:14:00.000-05:00

As in one run this week!!! First time in a very long time running without a watch, although I did have my cell phone clock, so I know the approximate time. Which leads me to a question....

Is everyone else time obsessed or is it just me? Way back when in '06 I was just happy to have have made it back home without having a heart attack. Now if I don't have negative splits and sub 9 minute miles I am frustrated. I feel like the ground will open up and Satan herself will come out of the hole in the earth and ask me why do you even bother.

But in all seriousness it was a refreshing change to run without knowing. It was the first time my step son, who is 13, watched the little ones for me while I ran. Because of this I was a little nervous about being gone, hence the cell phone. So I realized a few minutes in that I was much faster than normal, but it felt good. there is something about working up a sweat when it is 30 degrees out! So around 26 minutes later I made it back home, happy to see nobody even realized I'd left!!! Funny how fast kids grow up!

Bottom line is I ran. I ran when it was inconvenient for me to do so, when it was cold outside, when it would have been so easy to shower and get into some comfy clothes and hang out with the kids. Thinking back on it as I do with almost every run. I felt so much better!!!! There is nothing I can do for only 26 minutes that makes me feel so refreshed and renewed like running does.

Thanks for stopping in,
R.P.D.

Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time; for that's the stuff life is made of.
~ Benjamin Franklin

HAPPY MONDAY!!!!!

2008-01-14T06:39:00.000-05:00

So another weeks goes by and I only run twice, 3 and 3.2 miles. Although those runs went about a good as I could have hoped I am finding it increasing difficult to make time to run. You'll notice I didn't say find time, I said make time. That little part of my brain that says, "go ahead and sleep for another 30 minutes", "hey lets watch football, you deserve a break", etc. etc. etc. We all know that guy, well mine I fear at times is winning!! Having said that, the battle is on!! No more Mr. Nice Guy!! For lack of a better way to say it, every time that voice speaks up it's getting bitch slapped!!!! When I have time to I am going to run. I will say that again so I can hear it... When I have the time to run I AM going to run. When I don't have the time, I will make the time. The only, and I mean only thing that will prevent me from running is time with the kids. I will and cannot sacrifice what little time I spend with my children. That of course doesn't mean that they can't come with me!!

A reasonable and doable schedule for me is to run 4 times a week. Three weekly runs and a long run on the weekend. That will not get me ready for Boston, but I won't be ready to try that in earnest for a year or two anyway. Baby steps!!! 4 runs a week will give me the miles I need and a good base to build on. My short term goal is to build and maintain a base of sub 9 minute miles runs, gradually increasing the miles at that pace until I bump it down to sub 8:30, hopefully by sometime next year.

The picture, by the way, is the grandfather of an old friend. Notice the popcicle stick the guy in the lower left is getting ready to hand to him!! Tell ya how long ago this was taken! It is no less inspiring , however.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by,

R.P.D.

"Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired." - Jules Renard

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BECCAH....

2008-01-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

A WHITE ROSE FOR YOU...

The light of my life, my oldest daughter Beccah birthday is tomorrow. It is hard for me to believe she is going to be 11 years old. Most everybody that visits my blog knows the story about how Beccah told me that we should hang out all day together, that way I wouldn't smoke for at least that day because I didn't like to smoke in front of her. Well one year, nine months and five days later I am still smoke free and it is all because of my little girl.
We are going through some trying times right now and between working ungodly hours and trying to maintain some sort of normalcy around my house I loose sight of just how special she and my other kids are. Every now and again...more now than again the kids will do something that makes you understand how a person's heart can walk around outside of your body!
Sometimes it is as simple as laughter in the bath tub or slurping up spaghetti noodles at the dinner table. Then there are the time where I swear I can't love them anymore than I do...until the next time. Nothing feels better than walking in the door after a long day and being tackled by a 4 and a 3 year old screaming DADDY!!!! We missed you!!! Or playing catch in the basement on a cold winter day, making easy bake cakes, double piggy back rides to bed or one of my favorites, watching a movie surrounded by my kids.
So on this the eve of Rebeccah's 11th birthday I want to say thanks to her. For not only being my inspiration to get healthy, but for simply being her. For always and forever my baby she will be.

R.P.D.

P.S.
3 miles yesterday...26:50...tried and succeeded in maintaining sub 9 minute pace.

I RAN TODAY!!!!

2008-01-02T20:41:00.000-05:00

Not bad, day two of the new year and I ran. 5k, nice and easy...29:16...dreadmill.

Felt like an old friend came back into my life after a long absence!!!! My legs never really felt loose, but overall I was pleased considering I had almost a month off. My plan is to gradually build up to 7 to 10 miles a day with a long run mixed in whenever I can. Maybe throw in some speed work now and again. For me to be ready for Bayshore, miles are going to be the key. I am going to run run run.

I am very excited to see how this year plays out. Big changes are a comin' and weather I am ready for them or not doesn't matter. The ride will be bumpy at times, but hey that's life!

Have a great day,
R.P.D.

I should have liked, I do confess, to have had the lightest license of a child, and yet to have been man enough to know its value...... Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

TIME FOR REFLECTION....

2007-12-31T11:46:00.000-05:00

So another year is almost over. 365 more days that I can't get back. Just how many of those days were wasted to a certain extent I really don't care to think about, but a will think about wasted days to come.
I am getting tired of "saying" things. The to do list is full and it is time to start scratching items off the list. So come the new year here are a few things I am going to do that I have been talking about doing for a long time....
...I am going to go to culinary school. I flirted with the idea of becoming a chef years ago and let the fear of change stop me. As the years go by I keep telling myself that I am too old...BAH!!!
...Getting my financial mess in order...enough said.
...Spend more QUALITY time with the kids...I need to be more of a playmate while at the same time continue to be the rule maker!
...talk to my sisters more.
...put more miles in. I love running, the feeling is like nothing else. People who don't get it will never understand. Those of you who do, know exactly what I am talking about. That feeling of not being able to go another step and yet going another mile!! It is so cool. I am no longer going to look to others for help in finding the time. I am going to MAKE time.
...seeing my mother at least twice a month.

Ok that is all for now. Have a Happy New Year!!!

R.P.D.

AND SO IT GOES....

2007-12-29T06:06:00.000-05:00

Another week goes by and no running. I will be very glad when the holidays are over and I can start to develop some sort of schedule. Everything has just been crazy since Hawaii. I can't believe it has been three weeks!!!! It seems as though I barely have time to catch my breath before the next problem arises. I am not going to stress about it. Things will shake out, I will get back into some sort of normal routine. I have been more aware of my eating habits than I was last year. That is not necessarily true, I was aware of how much I was eating last year. I just couldn't stop myself!!! I have 15 more pounds to loose to get to my goal weight of 185 which I should be able to maintain with regular running. The problem occurs when I don't run...see above comment about not stressing!!!!
Anyhow, I miss the feeling of a run ending. That feeling of, you know I really didn't feel like running today, but now that I did I feel great!
This is going to be a big year you me in more ways than one, but where running is concerned I am committed to make significant strides towards Boston. What that means is putting the miles in come Hell or high water.

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

WILL WONDERS NEVER CEASE?

2007-12-26T06:23:00.000-05:00

I actually ran on Saturday, I will wait a minute for everyone to get back into their seats!!

A perfectly slow, comfortable 3 miles in the dead of winter here in Michigan. No aches, pains, complaints or any other type of ailments.

Hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and here's to a safe and happy New Year!

R.P.D.

P.S.
I was reminded over the holidays of who I am, or more precisely of who I used to be. And I think I like him. One day I plan on meeting him again, more to come...

HO!HO!HO!

2007-12-21T16:58:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year!!!! Sorry for the absence of blogs lately, but as I have said before. When I don't run, I don't blog. I haven't run since the marathon. I will do my best to get a few miles in this weekend!!! Keep your fingers crossed.

R.P.D.

TIME TO TELL THE STORY....

2007-12-17T09:03:00.000-05:00

First thing I want to say, even though he doesn't read this here blog is happy 13th Birthday to my step son Nathan. I truly cannot believe he is 13 already, I haven't had many opportunities to see him since I got back from Hawaii, which bums me out! Happy b-day dude you are a great kid!!!
Ok, now for the report. I really don't know why, but my recollection of this marathon is nothing like last year. In San Fran I remember every single detail about the day, even now I can remember the smell in the air at the start, the look of the bay as we ran along fisherman's wharf. Hawaii seems like such a blur. A couple of reasons for that may be that, one, it was dark at the start and stayed dark for about 2.5 hours. The other I think was the rain, it poured on us as we stood in line for the race to start and then again several times during.
The weather leading up to the marathon was bad, how bad you ask? The Weds. before we arrived they had 80 mph winds on the big island. Rain had fallen for 10 days straight the night we arrived. Did someone move Honolulu to Seattle?? After 14 hours of mass transit we got checked into the hotel and yes it was raining.
Fast forward to Sunday morning, 3:30am. Yes 3:30am!!! I dragged myself out of bed and put the gear on for the race. Nothing special, TNT shirt, hat, shorts, socks, and shoes. 4 packs of GU safety pinned to the shorts. Off I went to meet the team. After some chit chat we headed off toward the start. Not even 5 minutes into the walk it started pouring. Luckily we found another hotel with a large covered area to huddle under. After a few minutes the rain stopped and we finished the trek to the start. The line seem to end at the 4 - 5 hour corral so that is where we stood. After 30 minutes and another down pour the cannon sounded and the fireworks signalled the beginning of the race. We crossed the start line some 18 later and the rains came again. Soaked to the skin, water sloshing around in my shoes at miles 1.5 I had the feeling it was going to be a long, long run. This is where things get fuzzy. The only thing I recall about the first 8 miles is that my right foot was on fire. That and the fact that there were people everywhere. I was never more than 2 or 3 feet away from another runner the whole race! At mile 8 we started up diamond head and if it weren't crowded enough the road narrowed. This is because the elite runners and wheel chair athletes were making their way back. We were front to back, shoulder to shoulder the whole way up, it was crazy. The next thing I know it is mile 12 and I had my first real thoughts about not making it. By this time my other foot had joined the party so now every step was pins and needles, but I plodded on. At some point around the 15 miles mark I ran into coach Janet. Janet is one of those rare people who can cheer me up without saying a word. We ran together for a few minutes and I felt better. At some point prior to that I started to run walk every mile and I was really starting to feel the miles. After a loop around and back I hooked up once again with Janet at around mile 18 and we ran together until 20. Again I am clueless until mile 24 when it was back up Diamond head. I finally got my second wind and the way up was tolerable. Once you get to the top it was mile 25 and all down hill from the there. The next thing I remember is the finish. Marathon number two was in the books and man did my feet hurt!!!
Now under ordinary conditions the park that we finished in must be beautiful, but that day is was a muddy mess. It is hard enough to walk, but with 5 pounds of mud caked to the running shoes it was damn near impossible!
My disappointment was not in the race, but my lack of attention during. I had my down almost the whole race, which is unusual for me. Once in a while I would look up and the scenery was incredible, but then it was right back down to the pavement again. Not sure why? One of these days I'll have to back and look at what I missed!

Take care,
R.P.D.

MARATHON REPORT, SORT OF...

2007-12-13T13:18:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the delay in posting my marathon report, but I just can't seem to get my thoughts organized to write them down. In a nutshell, as was the case last year it was an experience I won't soon forget and one I hope to build on in the future. I will post a detailed report in a day or two.
I would like to thank everyone who has helped me along the way and I will report back soon...

promise.

R.P.D.

P.S.
5:16:31

FINAL COUNTDOWN...

2007-12-05T09:07:00.001-05:00

Toothbrush.....check
bodyglide........check
running shoes....check
shorts, socks, hat, nerves.....check
I am officially ready to go. Mentally that is. Physically we'll see. This will be my last post before my 2nd marathon and I have to tell ya it couldn't come at a better time. Not only because I get to leave the 20 degree temps of Michigan to go to Hawaii, but I need the break mentally.
I have a plan, I have a target, I have a goal. And if I don't meet any of them I have a back up!

THE PLAN.....to start slowly, real slow and stay slow for no less than 6 miles.
THE TARGET....4:30:00, by starting slow 10:30 or slower I am hoping to have enough reserves in the tank to make catch the 4:30 pace group at the end.
THE GOAL....4:28:24 this is exactly 1 hour faster than my previous marathon.

THE BACKUP....have fun with it. I am so not going to stress if any of the above do not happen. I am only going to be there for a short time and may never get a chance to go back, so I am there to enjoy myself 1st, run a marathon 2nd. Everything else is gravy.

I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to where I am. The team, Tim, Ken, Dana, Sandy, Anika, to name only a few. The family, Nate, Jack, Chloe and Beth. To my fellow bloggers like Bill, Al, Dabigleap, Greatlakesrunnergirl who inspire me to run farther and faster.

And last of all to Beccah, my daughter. As I have said before and will again. If not for her I would not be sitting here writing this. I love her very, very much.

Thank you for stopping by,
R.P.D.

MOTIVATION/INSPIRATION

2007-11-29T06:58:00.000-05:00

Last night was the final clinic before Honolulu and the speaker was Doug Curtis. Now sometimes motivation comes from the most unlikely places and other times it comes form where you expect. Last night was the latter.
Just hearing Doug's bio is enough to make me want to log more miles. Over 200 marathons, in almost every country. Countless victories. Now don't get me wrong, I am no Doug Curtis. But in a sense I am.
Sure this is marathon 2, not 200 and these shoes have never run on foreign soil, but we are both marathoners. We both know the wall, the bad spots, the runners high. That feeling of accomplishment and excitement when we cross the finish line. We both know the drudgery of early morning runs, late night 3 milers because that's all we have time for. The feeling of , oops I shouldn't have eaten Chinese last night!
Weather or not we run at 7 minute pace or 10, we are runners. We love the sense of doing something that hardly anyone else does. The awe and wonder in peoples eyes when they say you ran how far?!?! We push ourselves when others would stop. We run with ice on our faces, water in our shoes, and Gu in our pockets. We run for ourselves, our kids, for records, to win, to not win, to finish, to keep the waistline down, to prove people wrong. The list goes on and on, but it all boils down to one thing....

We all decided to get up off the couch, to put down the remote and head out the door. Putting one foot in front of the other, one step at a time we have run countless miles. Everyone of us deserves a pat on the back, so consider this your atta boy, way to go!!!

You guys rock and inspire me!

R.P.D.

T MINUS 11....

2007-11-28T07:57:00.000-05:00

11 days! Are you kidding me?

For one fleeting moment during my 6 mile run yesterday I knew I was going to be ok. I felt really strong the entire run, even though I was on the "dreadmill". I personally waste too much time on what could happen, or even what will happen. What happens, happens and I will deal with it when it does. The absolute worse thing that can go wrong is that I can't finish the marathon or get injured. In which case I will still be in Hawaii and I can go to the beach and work on a tan or better yet do some souvenir shopping for the kids!
So bring it on, give me your best shot! Even if it knocks me down I'll brush myself off, get up and keep moving forward. There is no other choice when it comes down to it, is there? Finish what you started!!!!

R.P.D.

BRAIN BUCKET...

2007-11-26T12:49:00.000-05:00

An old friend of mine used to say he needed a brain bucket after a night of heavy partying. How good it would feel to get a bucket of ice cold water, drop a couple aspirin into it and plop the old grey matter in. Give it a rinse, maybe a splash of powder or talc and put it back all fresh and new.
I have been pretty consumed in stress lately and it is amazing how it saps my strength, desire, and urge to run. On top the the usual concerns about the upcoming marathon and lack of training, I now have all this other baggage to deal with.
I know running helps, Saturday is a perfect case in point. I left my house at 7:20am and the last thing I wanted to do was run. I almost talked myself back into the house a half dozen times before I got to Stony Creek. Even after I got there I felt like going back home, but after much debate, mostly with myself, we decided on 9 miles and the trails. My head was swimming by mile 2 and I felt as though I was in need of a med tent. By mile 4, every bump in the trail seemed to grab me by the foot and say quit already will ya. Something funny happened at mile 7 after we got back on the main path and after a potty break. I didn't feel bad anymore. My headache was gone, the worries weren't there, that stress knot in the back of my neck was gone. For the briefest of moments I was happy just to be where I was and nothing else mattered. We got back to the warm room and coach Ken and I decided to go back out for a couple more miles. A mile out and a mile back. I could have done another 6 miles maybe more, but that is not the point. The point is running is my brain bucket. My link back to sanity.
I had a really good weekend and spent most of the day yesterday making seafood stock and paella which ended up being too spicy for the kids, but that was ok. They got to have their dessert first and we got to play I spy while we waited for the frozen pizza to cook. And it all started with an 11 mile on Saturday which almost didn't happen. Strange how things work out!!!

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING...

2007-11-20T07:08:00.002-05:00

To everyone who takes the time to visit my blog, Happy Thanksgiving!!! Hoping everyone has much to be thankful for.

R.P.D.

16 miler...

2007-11-19T07:22:00.000-05:00

16 miles....2:46:27...

Overall run better than I could have hoped. The morning was cool, but not cold with virtually no wind. Decided to give the trails a try at my usual Saturday morning running locale. After about 5 miles in the woods I developed an issue with my running tights. I didn't really notice until I stopped to have a Gu. Oy, it was rather uncomfortable to say the least. Luckily it didn't get any worse throughout the rest of the run. Back out on the main loop after 7 miles in the woods we had just about 2 miles to go to the water stop and there we ran into a couple of our fellow TNT'rs. The next 3 miles is a boring out and back to the nature center that I usually dread. Saturday it went by nice and quick and before we knew it we were back at the water break again. 2.5 more to go. Even though the nature center miles went by quickly I was beginning to feel the miles and from 12 to 14 the chafe was back. I just wanted to be finished by this point. Something clicked in and the last 2 miles, although I didn't time them, were the fastest of the day.
Special thanks to Tim, who ran with me. Most of you know how much easier it is to run with someone and I am fairly positive I wouldn't have made it without his help. I do feel a little better mentally about December, but I still need a few more runs like this weekend before I start my taper.

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

TGIF....

2007-11-16T10:15:00.000-05:00

So it is Friday, the end of another week and all that much closer to the marathon. I am sitting here wondering what I should have for lunch and dinner that will help me in my long run tomorrow wishing the day was over.
I got 2 runs in this week. 5.6 miles and 4.5 miles the latter on a treadmill. Pace was 9:15 to 9:20. My scheduled run for tomorrow is 20 miles, but I am only doing 16. Did I really just say that I am only running 16 miles?

Something on the top of my brain (after reading Bill's blog).. my weight. I have always been kind of big. In the summer between 7th and 8th grade I grew 7 inches and put on about 25 lbs. So at age 13 I was 6'1" tall and almost 210 lbs. 29 years later and I am 6 foot(shrank an inch) and 210 lbs, albeit distributed a bit differently. Last summer while training for my first marathon I was 197 lbs. During a very lazy winter, where I still ate as though I was training for a marathon, I put the weight back on and it just won't come off. It is a little frustrating and carrying around the extra baggage takes it's toll. My goal is 185, not by Honolulu, but in general. I would, however, like to get down to 200 by December. I am not a dieter, but I don't eat fast food, sweets, etc. Short of a serious increase in miles I am not sure if 185 is doable and/or maintainable. I guess only time will tell.
Time to recommit myself. No more excuses! Put up or shut up! Tomorrow I have 16 miles to run and come hell or high water I have 26.2 to do on December 9th....
Nothing but a step for a stepper!!!!

R.P.D.

CAN I DO IT?.....

2007-11-12T06:47:00.000-05:00

That is the question I keep asking myself, can I do it? Can I really run 26.2 miles in less than a month? Now that fundraising is all but finished I need to face the harsh reality that I have not been putting enough miles in and no matter how much I try to make up in the next 30 days I am far, far behind where I need to be. Both physically and mentally.
Saturday morning was supposed to be the first run of over 13 miles for this year, 16 to be exact. After only 12 miles, a small portion of which I walked, I gave up. It was easily the most miserable run ever. Even though it was cool, the air seemed to be heavy and I was finished by mile 2. I ran almost the whole time alone and I had to take stock in the fact that come December I could be in for a long, long day. Part of me wants to go out and run 10 miles every day this week. The other part wants to give up and say what's the difference. I am struggling to find a middle ground, a happy place if you will! With every day that goes by without a run that place is harder and harder to find. I know physically I can do it, start and stay nice and slow. Keep my pace at just over 4 1/2 hour pace, hydrate, fuel, yada yada yada! My issue is going to be keeping my head out of it. I need to stay focused mentally, to push myself forward, to not listen when I get a little tired, more importantly to not listen when I get a LOT tired.

All my thought are muddled together, when they line up I will continue this rant. Thanks for stopping in!

R.P.D.

P.S.
check out Bill's blog. Link to the right------>
Just ran his first sub 3 hr marathon in Richmond. GREAT JOB!!!!

BOWLING FOR DOLLARS...

2007-10-30T12:05:00.001-04:00

Anybody else remember that show? Bonus points if you can recall the hosts name.

I am having a bowling fundraiser this Saturday at Astro Lanes in Madison Hgts.

INFO.....
TEAM IN TRAINING AND THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY PRESENT
BOWL FOR A CURE
Please come out for a night of fun and bowling to raise money to help find a cure for blood cancers.

When: Saturday November 3
Check in 8:30pm – 9:00pm
Where: Astro Lanes
32388 John R
Madison Hgts
Cost: $25.00
Includes 3 games of 9 pin “no tap” bowling
2 mystery games
Pizza, pop and salad
Strike Ball
And if that wasn’t enough we will also have a bowling ball raffle, silent auction items provided by Sports Authentics, 50/50 tickets and much, much more!!!

If you bring 5 or more people you get in for free!!! Only one free entry per group.
Please contact Bob DeLisle for details 586.883.0067 Please RSVP by Nov. 1st.

Anyone in the neighborhood who would like to come out is more than welcome.

Thanks,
R.P.D.

P.S. starting to feel really stressed about my upcoming marathon...more to come.

THE NOTHING RUN...

2007-10-24T07:58:00.001-04:00

While running I usually think about all of the days events, I run at night, and I will work out issues I am having or just enjoy the noise, etc. Last night I can't remember a single thing about my run. Other than starting and finishing that is. First time this has happened, my senses are usually amped up when I am running. I notice everything, but last night, NADA!!!!
So, sorry for the short post. :o)

6 miles...58 minutes...

R.P.D.

FREEP Half post race...

2007-10-22T09:58:00.000-04:00

At our team fundraiser on Thursday a friend told me that he was not going to be able to run in the 1/2 marathon in Detroit this past weekend because of a stress fracture. Since he already paid he asked if I would like to run, since it fit perfectly into my training...What the heck!

I have always wanted to run in the FREEP so off I went. The early part of the day was uneventful. I parked and arrived about an hour before the start. I milled around for a bit until I finally found some people I knew. About 15 minutes before the start I headed to the porta-potty for my pre race bathroom break. OH MY GOD, the line could not have moved slower and as the national anthems finished I still had about 40 people in front of me. I just finished my business and made it to the back of the line as the gun went off.
Slowly we made our way to the start and crossed the line some 7 minutes after the gun. My goal was to finish the half at the same time the winner finished the full, 2:17:ish gun time. So I needed to finish in 2:10:00 or there abouts by my calculations. At about 3 miles I finally was able to maintain a pace without dodging folks and headed for the bridge. This is only marathon that crosses into AND back from another country. The crossover into Canada is made on the Ambassador Bridge. Just onto the bridge we cross mile 4 and for the next 1/2 mile or so there is a 5 degree incline. Then a short level off and then down hill to Windsor. With maybe 200 yards to go the bridge started to vibrate in unison with the cadence and I will admit I sped up just a little.
After about 3 miles in Canada we made it to the tunnel back to Detroit. Another unique feature to the FREEP is the underwater mile. Upon entering and leaving the tunnel you activate your 'chip' and get to see your underwater split time (8:58). The climb out of the tunnel was the hardest part of the day for me, mostly because there just was no air moving and claustaphobia was starting to set in. Once out, however the sunshine and breeze were back and there were people everywhere, what a lift!!
As per usual I hit a semi-wall between miles 11 and 12, once I finished that mile it disappeared, again as per usual. With four blocks to go you could see the finish and the crowd was huge on both sides of the street and this is where is got a little surreal. I could hear the guy on the microphone saying something about he needs to finish under 2:17 to get a bonus of $2,500.00 and it gonna be close. Lets make some noise to help him across. That was nice of him! Then I realized he was in fact not talking about me, but the winner of the full. I was maybe 50 yards from the finish as he made the turn to home and they raised the finishline tape as I approached. Again, that was nice of them to do that for me!!! As I broke through the tape to the gasps of the fans... Kidding!! I just missed crossing the line with the winner. I beat him by about 19 seconds. That fact that he ran twice as far has no bearing on it what-so-ever!
Finish time...2:07:30.
Everything was great, the weather, the course, the fans, the volunteers, the views and all of the people working the aid stations did a great job! Thanks to them especially and my family/wife who let me relax most of the day after I got home.

R.P.D.

THE CLEANSING....

2007-10-18T11:01:00.000-04:00

Have you had one of those runs? One of those runs that if asked you could figure out all of the world's problems. Not only did I feel cleansed afterward, I felt lighter, much lighter. Running at night lends itself to the feeling of being alone. The darkness and the lack of other people is why I usually do it. That and it is the only time I seem to be able fit it in. Tuesday was different from the start. The alarm on our mini van kept going off for no reason. every couple of minutes it was HONK HONK HONK HONK!!! Beth took it for a spin around the block to see if that would help and sure enough no more alarm. I still expected to hear it go off as I started down the street. I started to notice things like all of the animals that cross my path. Mostly squirrels and rabbits. Once I got to the main roads it was unusually loud, but quiet at the same time. The trees seemed to be closer to the sidewalk than normal and it reminded me of a time years ago when I went for a walk while reading The Lord of The Ring. There is a chapter in that book where a band of travellers have to go through this forest, I just happened to be reading that chapter at that time and I still remember feeling like I was part of the story. Then there was the sound of the tires on the wet road. Sounds just like butter wen you put it into a hot pan. And I never realized just how load fire trucks are. One passed me and man oh man it was loud.

Then my mind shifted to my kids and how I feel inadequate as a father at times and all I seem to do is yell. Sometimes I wish I was different in that regard and I have tried to change, but change is hard and comes too slow. My step son brought home a progress report from school and he is doing really well. When he gave it to me I looked it over and didn't really give him the credit he deserved. Not sure why I do that, but it bothered me enough to surface during the run and I talked to him about it when I got home. Running is one of the few times this happens. Things just seem to be clearer.

The last 3 miles started with me thinking terrible thoughts about my kids being hurt or abducted. I wish those thoughts never surfaced, but as a parent they do. We worry something fierce. The Sunday before my run I went to the grocery store in the afternoon and noticed a pickup sitting at the end of my street with 2 guys I have never seen before. It didn't strike me a weird, but at the same time I decided to swing around the block and tell Beth, my wife, about it and asked her to keep a closer eye on the little ones. I drove past the truck again this time I took a closer look and as I drove by they put their seat belts on drove away. I turned around again to follow them, but by the time I did they had already gone. Probably nothing, but it got me thinking. Well during the run, as I said these thought creeped in and I didn't time it but I felt myself going faster. I think I wanted to get home and check on everyone. Everyone was fine as I knew they would be.

Anyway.. enough of my blathering on. The run by the way was 6 miles...59:01...nice and slow, but I needed it, so did my brain.

Thanks for stopping in,
R.P.D.

ANOTHER WEEK CLOSER...

2007-10-15T09:10:00.000-04:00

12 miles
1:56:36
9:43 pace

It always scares me a little how fast the weeks, months, even years fly by. My step son will be 13 in December, my youngest just turned 3 and Honolulu is less than 2 months away!!!
The run Saturday, detailed above, went fairly well. I ran with 3 other people and we set out to maintain a 10 minute pace, which was fine with me I wanted to experiment with my pace. 1st mile was 10:14, then 10:05, 9:50, 9:45.... I can't remember the next 2 miles as my watch deleted my workout shortly after I finished. After the first 6 miles I lost my running partners. A quick Gu and I was off. I felt strong so I decided to pick it up a little and finished the second 6 miles in 56 and change. My slowest mile being 9:50 and my fastest was 9:01.
The best thing to come out of the run was I think I may have worked out me dilemma in regards to speed vs. pace. Starting out a slower pace and maintaining it for a few miles eliminated the usual aches and pains I have been feeling when I try to slow down and it allowed me to increase the pace later on in the run. I will try to maintain 9:40 pace through out the week and then decrease that to 10:00 on my longer run. If I can do that I should be able to break 4:30.

Sorry for the boring blogs lately, training has been weighing heavily on my mind lately. So my blogs have tended to be recaps of runs.

R.P.D.

HELP......

2007-10-10T13:25:00.000-04:00

I worked on tempo again yesterday and I have a question.... First I did 4 x1 mile with 1/4 mile recovery. Minus 10 sec from marathon pace. Repeats were 9:39...9:40...9:40...9:22. I ramped the last mile up on purpose and I was again pleased that I was able to stay on pace.
Here is the question , however, my lungs like the slower pace ( around 10 mins), but my body likes it at around 9.5 minutes. Which way should I lean to, that is to say, which is easier to overcome my cardio or my muscles? When I slow down to 9:50 to 10:00 pace my legs just ache the whole time, yet at 9:20 to 9:30 I don't have any muscle issues until well into a run (10 + miles). If I try to maintain sub 9:30 pace my lungs feel as though they are going to come out of my chest after a few miles. Any thoughts? My ultimate goal is to increase my marathon pace to around 7:55-8:00. To qualify for Boston sometime in the next 7 years. Realizing that speed doesn't happen over night, but I'm not getting any younger either.

Thanks in advance,
R.P.D.

INAR......

2007-10-09T06:55:00.000-04:00

I
Need
A
Run!!!!!

TRACKSTAR....

2007-10-04T07:48:00.000-04:00

Well, that would be a slight over exaggeration. Last night was my first endeavour into track running. Someone from my TNT team suggested we get together at this high school from some speed work. I'm always up for speed work and group running so I jumped at the chance. First things first, actually running on a track is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. I envisioned my left knee hurting from the continual circles, but that never happened. I can see how tracks can lend themselves to speed work, but any type of sustained pace running would get old real fast! I think I would rather run on a treadmill, but it might be a toss up.
The workout itself was kind of a mosh pit of sorts. One warm up lap, then we did two laps of sprinting on the straights and recovery on the curves. Then a few laps at tempo followed by 1 fast lap. Then a few slower laps, then another fast. Everyone decided to call it a night, but I wanted to get 1 more mile in so I tried to run laps a bit faster than marathon pace, but at the same time maintain it. 9:14...9:13...9:14...9:02. I was very happy to see I am able to maintain pace without too much concentration. Total miles 4 @ 9 minute pace average. All in all it wasn't too bad.

Track star??? The track star was this little girl, maybe 7 out there training. She said she was going to do 8 laps. Her mother, who was very pregnant and 2 of her sisters were there as well, but not running. On the back of her shirt.....

FUNNER TO BE A RUNNER!!

I am going to think of that and her when I am at mile 22 come December.

Thanks for visiting.
R.P.D.

HUMP DAY MUSINGS....

2007-10-03T07:05:00.000-04:00

1st things first...8 miles 1:16:40 2 x 3 miles repeats tempo, 1/2 mile rest, 1 1/2 mile warm up.

I am almost always sore after a run, no matter the distance, but I never feel bad after a run.

Gas prices and the proprietors who set them are the root of all evil.

Being a parent is much, much harder than running a marathon.

Being a parent is much, much more rewarding than running a marathon.

Training the mind is much, much harder than training the body.

Is there anything better than vanilla ice cream after a long run?

If I had to do it all over again I would have become a Veterinarian.

I like keeping track of the miles when I drive and saying, "I could run that".

I like being slightly cold more than being slightly hot.

Having your back scratched by your child is the absolute best!!

Running with someone, even if you don't talk, is better than running alone.

Fundraising is harder the second time around.

Being a husband is much, much harder than running a marathon.

Almost as many people vote for the winner of American Idol as do for the president...

And the margin is getting smaller.

Lastly, there is nothing better than watching a child sleep.

R.P.D.

P.S.
Good luck to all of you heading off to Chicago this weekend, Tim and Al especially. Here's to PR's and good times had by all!!

NAKIN MILLS RUN....

2007-10-01T07:24:00.000-04:00

So I woke up late on Saturday, as usual, not remembering what time the group run was suppose to start I found my schedule and as it turned out I wasn't late afterall.
Every year at this time Team in Training and Running Fit put on a 20 mile run at a place called Nakin Mills. It is set up just like a race, and for a lot of people it is the first time they run 20 miles. Last year was my first! I knew most of the people I normally run with would be out there, but I was still undecided, it is almost twice as far as I usually drive for my Saturday run. Because of the later start I was now early so of course I decided to lie back down. Oops!! Never should have done that. I pulled out of the driveway still unsure of where I was going, so I kind let the car drive itself and I found myself on my way to the west side. Since I was going to be late where ever I went I figured I would go to where the most people would be.

I got the course 12 minutes late according to the stop watch at the start, everyone was gone except for a few people still getting things organized and/or running late like yours truely. The way the course is setup you go out and back 2.5 miles cross over the start/finish line go out and back for a total of 16. Then out and back 2 miles for a total of 20. Last year it was basically the same except when you came back to the finish line you had to go and back 1/2 mile, that was BAD mentally. Since I was only doing 13 I didn't have to deal with that this year. The weather was perfect, sunny and around 60 with no wind. I ran the first mile in 9:06 and told myself to sloooow down. I would never be able to maintain that pace. At almost 2 miles the main group of runners passed me going back towards the start, I missed the 2 mile mark somehow and didn't pay much attention at 3 miles. Back at the start I crossed 5 miles feeling fantastic with 4 out and back to complete my 13. It was at this point I realized the miles were turning over faster than usual and at 6 miles I paid attention the watch, 56:13, whoa new PR for 6 miles!! I was still running alone at this point, but I found myself in a very unusual position. I was beginning to pass some of the walkers and slower runners. I told myself at this point to slow down, I was never going to make 7 more miles at this pace. Of course I didn't listen, it felt too good! Up until Saturday my 10 mile PR was 1:44 and the Crim in August. I crossed 10 miles at 1:35:03, talk about delusions of grandeur!!! I started doing the math and figure, what the heck I can maintain and do a sub 2 hour half!!! I was still passing people on a regular basis, but the "real" fast people had begun to catch me as I headed back to the finish. With 2 miles to go I hit the last aid station up for some water and headed for home. I was starting to feel the miles, but with just over a mile to go sub 2 hours was still in reach. Then something strange happened, dizziness. I caught myself running sideways and almost fell over. It was kind of like nodding off to sleep while driving. I snapped out of it and continued and it happened again. I took my hat off and walked for a minute. At this point I would have killed to see someone I knew, especially if they had water, but alas nobody in sight. Decision time! Walk, run or stop. If I walked in from this point I would have felt defeated, STOP!!! what???, so I continued to run, albeit slowly. I finished in just over 2 hours, 2:05 and change.

A few things I learned. The speed and strength work on Tuesdays has helped me, being the one who is passing is much better than getting passed and with a lot of hard work these next couple of months I might just be able to make it 26.2 in Honolulu!!

R.P.D.

THE EVERYTHING RUN....

2007-09-28T08:27:00.001-04:00

Sorry about my recent lack of blogs. When I don't run, I don't blog! I did, however get in 6 miles last night. New PR by the by...56:53.

Speaking of the run, it started like most days recently with everything conspiring against me in an attempt to stop me from running. Appointments, errands, kids homework, etc. I finally made it out the door at 9pm. Most runs, for me anyway, have a distinct start, middle, and end. The start is horrible, my breathing is labored, legs are heavy and I almost always feel like turning around within a half mile. The middle is my comfort zone, my happy place. I can solve all of the world's problems in the middle part of my runs! Then there is the end, the can we get this over with stage. Or the God please make it stop hurting stage.

Well last night was different, as I said it took some doing to just get out the door and I was very stressed by the time I did. Helping my 12 yr old with his math homework when he doesn't understand is maddening. My wife asked me if I was just going to keep running once I made it out the door, pretty funny!! Well not even 1/4 mile into it my chest started to hurt, but went away quick enough. I took less time than usual to warm up and I felt really good at mile 2. Then the fun started, for the next 3 miles I experienced every type of run related feeling I can think of. One second I was feeling great, the next I wanted to die. Speed up, slow down, man it got hot, why is my belly so cold? All in all I liked it, time pasted more quickly and I ran my fastest mile between miles 4 and 5. It was just weird is all. Especially in a short run as it was. I have been feeling a bit unsure of myself and runs like this help to refresh the spirit and restore some confidence.

I think Beth was happy I decided to come back home after the run and thankfully my son figured out his math homework by then too. I am proud of him for putting so much effort into it!

As always thanks for taking the time and have a great day!!!

R.P.D.

NERVES????ALREADY....

2007-09-24T06:59:00.000-04:00

I followed one of my best weeks of training up with the worst this past week. I only ran twice and a strange feeling of dread came over me.
It's not so much that I don't think I can finish the marathon in December, but I don't want to just finish! Whenever I think I finally am on the right track with my training life throws me a curve ball and I have a "I didn't have any time to run" week. To add to my angst we are having some major issues with Beccah and her behavior and I am stressed about that. AND most of my running buddies have begun their tapers, so I have a feeling that a lot of my miles are going to be solo. AND my fundraising is going a lot slower than I had hoped, so there that added stress, oh AND then there is work which has been very very slow for months now and for some reason I now report to a different supervisor which makes me very happy (insert sarcasm here). I am this close to looking for work in a different state!
I think part of my problem is I know what is coming this time around, not that there won't or haven't been suprises, but I am afraid I am not going to be prepared. Ok enough complaining!!!

I know the answers are right there in front of me and I just need to chase them down.

R.P.D.

P.S.
6 miles on Saturday 57:04...not much of a long run eh?

LAZY NIGHT...

2007-09-20T07:06:00.000-04:00

Last night I was just plain lazy and didn't get my miles in. I spent the better part of the night sitting in my recliner while my youngest daughter slept on my lap. I could do that every day all day, it is such a great feeling. After my wife put her to bed I had lost all motivation and decided to call it a night. There was that twinge of guilt, but I'll get over it. Every now and again I think we need to re-charge the batteries and for me there is no better way to do this than laying with the kids.

R.P.D.

ONE MORE THING....

2007-09-17T07:49:00.001-04:00

Before I forget I wanted to give a get well soon to one of my avid readers TNT coach Ken, who just had knee surgery. Hope you are feeling ok and remember the road isn't going anywhere, so don't rush it!!
Also wanted to say congrats to Yvonne and Ken on the birth of their first baby, a boy, last Thursday. Congrats!!!!!!!

R.P.D.

BRRRRRRRR...

2007-09-17T07:33:00.000-04:00

09.15.07 11 miles 1:48:15

Woke up Saturday morning and got dressed for the weeks long run walked out the door and immediately turned around. Shorts were not going to be an option, unless they were over a pair of tights. So after I was dressed properly off I went.
I had it in my head that I needed to do over 10 miles. I've run a few 10 milers since last October, but nothing farther than that, so mentally I had to do it. All in all it was a great run, the weather ended up being perfect for running, once you got moving. We had a relatively large group doing anywhere from 6 to 18 miles so paths crossed often. We didn't do the trails I was looking forward to because the one person who knows the way has an injury and we didn't want to chance getting lost. Hopefully next time, get well Anika!
I did the last 2 miles on my own and I really think the speed/strength training is paying off. I felt tired, but finished strong and mile 11 was my fastest mile. Last week was a good week for me getting in over 25 miles for the first time this year, hopefully I can continue getting the miles in, my body is starting to crave it again!WOOHOOO!!!!!

Thanks for stopping in and have a great day!!!

R.P.D.

MID LIFE CRISIS.....

2007-09-14T07:12:00.000-04:00

What exactly is a mid-life crisis? The urge to go out and buy a sports car? Change your hair style? Start running to beat the reaper? I am not sure, but am sure of one thing, I am tired of working in my industry in the current economy. It really sucks to be in Michigan right now if you work in the automotive industry. I work for a Tier1 Tool and Die Manufacturer as a CNC/Wire EDM operator programmer and it is S-L-O-W!!!!
I can't remember the last new job that I have worked on and it is becoming harder and harder to make ends meet!

A little bio... I was one of those students who never had to study, school was always easy. At the same time I was never one to apply myself and getting through was my goal not excelling. When the time came and I finished high school I figured I would take some time off and start college in a year or two. After all I was making more money then I would after 4 years of school so what was the rush? Well needless to say I never went back, oh sure a class here and there, but nothing serious.
24 years and a wife and four kids and bills up to my eyeballs here I am. Feeling trapped in a dead end job that I think will probably not exist in 5 to 10 years. So what to do, what to do???? Being that I am in my early 40's my options are limited.

Just somethng that has been rolling around in my head lately that I needed to get out. Oh by the way I ran for the 3rd day in a row yesterday, 3.1 miles 29:38. woohoo!!!!

R.P.D.

MOTIVATION IS....

2007-09-13T08:21:00.002-04:00

A full bowel, sorry but it's true. there is nothing that will get me home faster.

Good run last night, 4.9 miles 46:30. I love this time of year the weather is just perfect for running, mid 60's at night.

I tried returning the shoes yesterday and the person at the shop said that he couldn't take them back because they had been worn outside. I am disappointed, but I will talk to one of the owners next time I see him at speed work. Not sure how you are supposed to know if the shoes are right for you unless you run in them? I understood what he was saying and didn't push the matter.

Everything was ok last night. We'll see if the break in in the next week or so. The bad thing is I just don't have the extra money to get another pair right now and my old shoes are not an option anymore. So as long as things don't get worse I'll be fine.

With any luck I am going to do some trail running this Saturday. I am looking forward to it as this will be the first time on these trails.

Did you know if we eat less meat it will ease Global Warming...who knew????

Those of you who run where there is traffic...what I usually do, if confronted with a turning car in my path is to stop and wave them on. Almost every time the car will stop. So I will then continue, the clock is running after all!!! The last few, maybe 5 times, as I start again the car decides to go as well. Last night I came about a foot from getting hit. What to do, what to do!??

Told my daughter a while back that I would join karate so we could do it together, but I haven't yet. Partially because I would be embarrassed. Been thinking lately I should just do it, but of course right now, no money!!!

Sorry just the stuff that poured out my head this morning...

Have a GREAT day!!!

R.P.D.

STRESS...TAKE 2.......

2007-09-12T07:47:00.000-04:00

Strength workout.... 4x1 mile repeats 1/4 mile recovery with 1 1/2 mile warm up and cool down.

I haven't had time to return my new shoes yet and I am starting to pay for it. My feet and ankles were so sore last night after running. The workout went really well and the weather was perfect. We were supposed to do 6 x 1 mile repeats, but I only did 4 because of the shoes and the pain. Pace was supposed to be 10 seconds faster than marathon pace which would have put me at 9:50 miles. Right after the warm up my stomach started to flip flop and the resulting potty break made me late for the actual workout. Because of this I went out very fast, again fast when I use it is a relative term, and finished mile one at 9:07. At that point I figured since I knew I was not going to do the full 6 miles I would push a little harder and readjusted my goal pace to be 9:30. The next three miles were, 9:20. 9:20, and 9:15. I was very happy even if my lower extremities weren't!
During the warm up I had a chance to re-evaluate my approach to this, my second marathon. I have been stressing about finishing time. Last year my goal was simple, finish without any significant injury. Which I did, 5:21:00 with about 5 miles of mostly walking between 17 and 22. This time around my goals are slightly more lofty. I would like to finish in 4:30:00, which I really should be able to do. Here I am three months away and I find myself worried about not being able to pull it off. Well last night I decided that if it works out, great! If not, oh well, just finish what you started and let everything else sort itself out. Now don't get me wrong I am still going to try and do it, but if it doesn't happen it is ok. Life will go on and lessons will be learned and I will get faster.

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

KIDS, STRESS AND WHY I LOVE THEM....

2007-09-11T08:23:00.001-04:00

I hadn't even made it into the house from work yesterday and I heard it. The unmistakeable sounds of my 10 year old daughter yelling at someone. Being the "enforcer" I immediately took charge of the situation and lost control almost as fast! For the next three hours I was in a constant battle of wills with a 70 pound 10 year old girl that I would, without hesitation, lay my life down for. By the end I was so stressed I could feel my blood pressure rising to dangerous levels and I could have really used a quick 3 miler at that point!

There is this little voice inside my head that reminds me of my feelings toward my dad. I loved him more than anything, but at the same time I was scared to death of him. That fear kept me on the straight and narrow. I don't think kids today feel that way. You should see their face when I tell them that teachers used to spank me!! "Did you tell grandma", they would ask. Yep, sure did and she was ok with it?? HAHAHA!! Not only was she ok with it, she usually was happy they did it.

Simple things like cleaning of the bedrooms, a universal problem between parents and children I am sure, takes on a life of it own where Beccah is concerned. This little 10 x 13 foot section of earth causes more tension in my house than the middle east! My request is usually a simple one, please clean your room and don't come out until it is done. Of course instead of that happening, I need to go to the bathroom, I need to talk to mom, I have to put this away, I need to...yada yada yada!!!!! Every 5 minutes and before you know it 2 hours has pasted and the room is still a fiasco. Now those of you with kids are probably nodding your head feeling my pain. Those without are wondering what planet I am from and that is ok. If you ever have kids you will understand.

In the middle of this war of wills are my other 3 kids, the oldest is the listener, does what he is told and quietly goes about his business. the little ones, 4 and 3..lets leave them for another post!!! I turn my back for a minute and my daughter is in the family room talking back to my wife. I held onto what wits I had left just long enough to get her back into her room. Once there I did the best impersonation of a man possessed that the world has ever seen and came just short or destroying the very same room I had been trying to cleaned for the past 3 hours!!! Did I mention there was still homework to do??? I felt as though my head would explode. After a few minutes of deep breathing I went to her and tried my best to explain why she needs to listen and follow directions and blah blah blah.

I struggle at being a father more than anything else in my life and it is times like these that make me wake up screaming at night. I love my kids more than life itself, but God help me, there are times when military school is a real option. And what did this all stem from? That little 10 x 13 foot patch of real estate we call Beccah's Room.

Deep breath and count to 10....

R.P.D.

LESSON LEARNED....

2007-09-10T08:15:00.001-04:00

So I was excited about running in my new shoes Saturday and WHAM!!! First things first... It seems as though every time I get fired up about running, training, the miles, etc. I get blind sided and can't or don't run. I only ran twice last week because of time issues, can't keep that up and hope to finish in December!! These things happen and I'll find some way to squeeze more runs into my week.
Ok back to the shoes, I just got my new Asics on Weds. as mentioned, but they didn't have my size in the width I needed so I went with a half size smaller. I figured the width (4E) was more important than the 1/2 size difference. Well I was wrong!! I did 6 miles on Saturday and my feet were killing me by mile 3. Not to mention the unusual aching in my ankle!! The shoes are the same model that I have been running in so the way I see it the size difference is the problem. I checked into it and Asics made no changes, structurally to the shoe. I will be going to exchange them for the correct size today and with any luck, knocking on wood, I will be back in business.

Thanks for stopping in...
R.P.D.

SMELL THAT?...

2007-09-06T07:14:00.001-04:00

That is new shoe smell! I decided to stay with what works and got another pair of Asics Cumulus. The guys at Hanson's Running Shop as usual were very helpful. I asked to try on several different makes that were similar to the Asics when he asked why, don't like the cumulus? I said, actually I love them. Then why do you want to switch, he said! DUH!!!!

Good point and good shoes. The only down side was by the time I got home it was too late to run so I will try and put a few miles on them tonight after my team in training meeting.

Speaking of running, I am getting that feeling back. It has taken some time, but it is back. That if I don't run I am going to explode feeling. That excitement about my next 3 miler around the neighborhood that I have done hundreds of times before, ok maybe not hundreds, but you know...

After my hiatus this past winter it was a struggle to get out the door. There was always something holding me back. Something better to do. Even though I am not putting in anywhere near the miles I need to I am running regularly, but more importantly I am always thinking about it. How can I get faster, run longer, what kind of new gel should I try, how far tonight?

If I could only put that type of thought and energy into things around the house, right sweetheart??!??

R.P.D.

NEW SHOES!!!....

2007-09-05T07:11:00.000-04:00

So I am finally getting a new pair of shoes today!! My Asics now have almost 300 miles on them, including my first marathon last year, so it is time to retire them. More to come on the shoes later.
I took an extra day off of work so I had a 4 day weekend. It was nice especially since I got to see the kids off for their first day of school. Although for them it was no big deal!!! They are at that age where we embarrass them more than anything else! I did run 3 out of 4 of those days and I feel pretty good. I did 8 Saturday, an easy 3 Sunday and just short of 7 yesterday at the strength workout. The best thing about my time off was going to the Michigan State Fair with my oldest daughter on Monday. We had really good time together riding the rides and seeing the animals. Heck we even saw a cow in labor, that doesn't happen every day!! As a matter of fact it was our first.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day...

R.P.D.

SELF LOATHING.....AGAIN?.....

2007-08-31T11:39:00.000-04:00

So here it is Friday and I as the day goes along I am getting more and more angry with myself. You see I did what every runner knows is a cardinal sin. I talked myself out of a run! For no good reason. Just pure laziness! Now I know that missing one day of training is not that big of a deal, but that isn't the issue. The issue is letting, or more to the point making it happen.

The weakest link in my running chain is my head. I am not as tough mentally as I need to be. During every tough run I have ever had my mind gives in before my body. Time to change that!! No more excuses. Time to put up or shut up!! Under 100 days until marathon number 2 and I need to get to work if I am going to do this in under 4:30.

Another short rant by the grey haired fat guy!!!

R.P.D.

CONFUSED.....

2007-08-30T13:33:00.000-04:00

So here is a question for my 10's of readers out there. Why is it that when I did three 1 mile repeats at roughly a 9 minute pace (8:40, 8:45, 9:13), I damn near puked when I got done. Then last night I do 3 miles in 27:47, which by my math is 9:16 pace. Does 15 seconds really mean that much? I wasn't even really tired when I finished last night. (Scratching the top of my head like Stan Laurel).

Here is my only theory...my body does not like to slow down. When we do speed work the recovery period in between the workout is usually 440 yds. at a slow jog. My workouts are always fastest times first, opposite of what I want. By the time I finish my last recovery jog I have had it and getting back up to and maintaining speed is very difficult. It is somewhat like people who take planned walk breaks every 8 minutes or every mile. I can't do that! The first walk break is ok, but by mile 3 I just can't get my body back into running again.

I really enjoy the speed work, but it is frustrating me. Any ideas????

R.P.D.

NOT A PATIENT MAN....

2007-08-29T06:55:00.000-04:00

One of my biggest character defects is lack of patience. Not only with others, but with myself. I had a really good speed workout yesterday, but I left feeling frustrated with my time. We did 3 one mile repeats...8.29 8.50 9.13 So about 9 minute average. Which was my target so in that respect I was happy. That is the problem, I want to be faster!! NOW!! Now I understand it is unrealistic to think I can just go out and run 7 minute pace, but increasing by 10 seconds here and there is maddening. Was in the band Queen that said "I want it all, I want it now!"
Other than just running faster I don't know what to do. I need to lose some more weight I know that will help, but again a pound here, a pound there. It sure didn't take this long to put the weight on!!! My body seems to like the speed, but my lungs will not cooperate. I guess 15 years of smoking will do that a person. The speed work on Tuesday helps and I know it will start to happen. I will all of sudden see the weight loss and my time will creep down, but I aint getting any younger!!!
Just a short rant by a grey haired dad with a big belly!!

R.P.D.

CHO-PATS ON THE REARVIEW...

2007-08-27T07:01:00.000-04:00

Bleary eyed and stiff I made it out the door at 6:15 Saturday morning and headed right for 7/11 for a coffee. Once on the road I became increasingly aware that I had no idea where I needed to go. I mean sure, I knew the general area and there were so many people that I figured I could just follow the crowd. The problem with that logic is the crowd was going in every direction at once. As usual though my worries were for not and I got my number and T-shirt, went back to the car grabbed a quick drink of water and headed to the start area. Once there I was happily surprised to find the Team in Training folks. As the time approached for the race to begin we squeezed as close to the road as possible, which because of the mass of people, wasn't very close. The 'herd' started moving and we were off.

Coach Ken, more on him in a minute, and I ran for the first 2 miles and because of the number of runners had no choice but to maintain a 10 minute pace. After he pulled aside to pick up some other runners I ran alone for some time. Well not alone, in the Crim you are never really alone. This was the first race that I was dodging people the entire time. I felt good leading into the hilly portion of the race, which begins at mile 5 and up I went. Last year I walked the better part of the uphills at this point and one of my goals was not to do it again. And lo and behold I didn't. Short steps and relaxed arms did the trick and before I knew it I was through the rough section and heading down hill. At this point I had only a rough idea how I was doing for time becasue my did not like the rain we got before the start and was not working, but I knew my goal of 1:35:00 was out of reach. I realize that I set goals a little too high sometime at this point, but I was ok with it. It was also here, between miles 6 and 7 that I realized something else. I need new shoes!!! My left foot started to really hurt and it was at this point I started walking here and there. I readjusted my goal, which was now to beat my best 10 mile time of 1:48 and with two miles to go I was at 1:29. I felt like I could do it, but I needed help.

Just under a mile to go I got that help, Coach Ken. I passed him as he was looking for runners and he asked how I was doing and I told him not good, but go find someone else who really needed help. Luckily he didn't listen!! Now to him it was probably nothing, but to me the 20 seconds or so he spent with me made the race. By this time the demon in my head was winning and I was bearly moving forward. "stand up straight, don't look down, look ahead, find a rhythmn." Rhythmn, that really woke me up and there it was. I was back! But it was the last he said that really inspired me. As he pealed off to find other runners he said pick someone ahead of me who is running the same pace and catch them. Because, he said, there were people behind me doing the same thing!!

So, I looked up and saw her. A bright orange tank top, speed walking about 20 meters ahead of me. I had been with her for about 3 miles and I decided there was no way a walker was going to beat me. I am not sure at what point I passed her but it was the strongest finish to any race to date and I came in at 1:44. Almost a full hour behind the winner!!! But because of Ken's 20 seconds I felt great! For what you and the other coaches do for us is beyond words. Thank you so much and thanks for the beers afterwards!!

So with my number drying on the dash and my cho-pats hanging from the rear view mirror I drove home thankful. Thankful for be able to run 10 miles, thankful for the people who pushed me when I needed it, and thankful for the signs when I got home saying way to go Bob. Your #1 Dad!!! Fast as Lightning!!! You did it!! No, you did it, because there is no way I make it without ya.....thank you so much for doing that it made my day!!!!

R.P.D.

CRIM '07 PRE RACE...

2007-08-24T10:07:00.000-04:00

Compared to a few days ago I am feeling great! Most of the head cold is gone and I am looking forward to Saturday, with some trepidation still, but looking forward none-the-less. I think it helped me to look back on my post from last year. Which I will re-post now...

originally posted Aug 29, 2006
NOT JUST ANOTHER 10 MILE RACEFor the last few days every time I attempt to write something of interest here it just ends up being gibberish and I decide to quit. Today I need to get this back into gear, because I need to get my running back in gear. After a week I just as soon forget, I woke to the alarm at 4:45 Saturday morning. Blearry eyed I managed to make it into the bathroom and threw some water on my face, brush my teeth, and stretch my old bones. I got my running clothes on, kissed the kids and headed out the door. Great it's raining! Back into the house for the wind breaker/rain suit. 1st stop coffee, 7-11 big brew and a energy bar. The 30 minutes or so it took me to get to our meeting place was filled with this thought, 'How am I going to get through this?' My food intake for the week was way, way below what it had been and my sleep, well let just say Thomas Edison would have been proud. I was the first to arrive at Big Buck, so I decided to wake some people up, it was after all 5:30AM on Saturday who would still be sleeping? After a while the others arrived and we piled into Christy's Envoy and we were off. The others were Steve, Russ, Matt, Christy and myself. Just in case you were wondering. As we pulled into the YWCA parking lot I could feel the anticipation building in my gut. The 5 minute walk to the registration building was filled with the sites of racers just milling about, warming up, people setting up tents, etc. Registration went without a hitch and it was back to the car to drop off everything I didn't need. As amazed as I was we found some other people from Team in Training and before I knew it we were herding toward the start line. Fast forward to mile 3 and I knew it was going to be a long day. My arms and legs were already tingling and I could almost feel my body burning muscle instead of fuel. Somewhere at mile 4 or 5 I lost myself in a crowd and let Margarita go on without me. I had held her up enough. Thanks for helping me get through those first few miles!!!! From this point on it was just a matter of would I finish not when. 1:52:07 after my chip beeped I crossed the finish line. It was like a scene from a movie. There I am, barely able to walk looking for any familar face. To the left, the right, half hoping to see my family there to surprise me, but alas. I really started to feel sorry for myself until realized how many people were saying way to go nd good for you. Everyone seemed genuninely happy for me. Funny how things happen like that. So that was that, my first Crim, my first big race. Even though I was extemely disapointed in my performance I understand why it happenned and will learn from it. Thanks to everyone for the pep talk before, during and after the race. You folks help me more than you know. Oh and by the way, next year... 1:35:00 here I come!

My plan is a simple one...eat a good pasta dinner tonight, get a good nights rest and run the first 5 miles in 50 minutes. If I can do that I might actually be able to to hit 1:35. Hopefully I will see lots of people I know and those of you who are going, if I don't see ya have a great race. See ya in the beer line!!!

R.P.D.

THE GODS ARE AGAINST ME....

2007-08-23T08:21:00.000-04:00

Or maybe I am just cursed! I officially signed up for the Crim yesterday and almost immediately I got sick!!! Typical head cold, running nose, scratchy throat, watering eyes. ARGH! How am I supposed to run 10 miles Saturday with a head full of cold??!!??
I guess it could be worse, I could be way under trained and out of shape...oh wait a minute...

I also wanted to mention that this Sunday is the start of the "Binge". The binge is an annual golf outing I usually go on. It is called the binge for two reasons.. one...4 days of golf, 28 guys and a quick story. A few years back, actually more than a few, the 28 of us were in the hotel bar where we were staying that year and last call rolled around. The bartender told us that we could, if we wanted to, purchase beer to take with us!! A sort of carry out service. Well after some conversation he asked if we would like anything. 12 cases of beer later we were off to our rooms!!! I am relatively certain he still talks about us!!!! The other is Bingen is the last name of the 'chairman'. Drop the e and there ya go! Because of several reasons, not the least of which is financial, I am not going this year and I am starting feel sad. The same group of guys have been going now for 25 plus years and this is the only time I get to see some of them. Maybe next year!!

R.P.D.

RUNNING INK....

2007-08-22T12:45:00.000-04:00

As in tattoos... I have been for some time now trying to get ideas for a running based tattoo and I am having no luck. Does anyone know of or have examples of such tats? I would love to see them. I am going to incorporate a tattoo into my Honolulu trip in December.

Thanks,
R.P.D.

SHOULD I OR SHOULDN'T I....

2007-08-21T07:36:00.001-04:00

Simply put I am not ready. I have not put in the necessary miles. Ready for what you might ask? The Crim...
The Crim is a 10 mile race here in Michigan and it was my first "big" event last year. Last year I had a terrible week heading into the race. I lost almost 10 pounds and did not eat for the better part of a week before the race. Needless to say I did not fare well and finished just shy of 2 hours. That being said I felt more prepared last year than I do now.
I have only one double digit run in..THIS YEAR!!!!
If I get 15 miles in a week I am doing good.
I am heavier by almost 15 pounds than last year...
But as I write this I have decided to do it, why??? Not entirely sure. I think it has to do with getting the bad taste out of my mouth from last year. As I finished last year's race I was physically and mentally spent. More so than any other race, including my marathon.

So preparation be damned!!!! But if you see me...give us a push I may need it!!!

R.P.D.

MIDWEEK REPORT....

2007-08-15T10:25:00.001-04:00

Writers block sucks!!!! Not sure how people who write for a living do it?!!?

Anyhow, training is what it is. Did some speed workouts yesterday and felt pretty good about it. We did 1mile, 1/2 mile, 1mile repeats with 660 jog rest in between. I was under 9 minute pace for all three, which is fast for me!! I also went out to Stony Creek last Saturday for my teams first group training. It was nice to see some new faces as well as the old ones, no offense Ken!!! For those of you not from around here, Stony Creek is a Metro Park here in Michigan. Metro parks are places set aside that have picnic areas, beaches, lakes, golf courses and yes running paths. They are maintained by the state and there is a small fee to use them. The "loop" at Stony is 6 miles and that is what i did on Saturday. Scary how hard 6 miles was, but I can feel progress and I am sure it would help if I was training on a regular basis!!! I may have mentioned it before, but I am not a patient man and this whole getting back into shape thing sucks!!!
As I said, however, it is what it is and every mile helps!!

Thanks for stopping in!
R.P.D.

JUST WHEN YOU THINK YOU HAVE IT FIGURED OUT...

2007-08-10T08:16:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned in my last entry I entered this week totally fired up about training, running, and basically getting back into shape. I was ready to get some serious miles in both alone and with the group. Well wouldn't know Mr. Murphy decided to pay me a visit. Everything seemed to conspire against me and I have only been able to get out once this week! Weeks like this are frustrating, not only because of the lack of training, but because they seem to never have existed. They days go by so quickly I am amazed that today is Friday already.
On a happier note I did meet a few of my team members on Wednesday at the Team in Training kick off meeting as well as a few of the mentors. I was happy to find out that my mentor was Dana, with I trained for my last marathon with. I should mention, for anyone who doesn't know, that I am training and fundraising with TNT. We raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to one day find a cure!!!
Tomorrow is our first team group run so with any luck I will have a report on Monday!

R.P.D.

INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION....

2007-08-06T07:51:00.000-04:00

I have never been the type of person to do something for the sake of doing it. I have pretty much always needed a push, a reason, a coach, etc. Running has been no different for me. I have met countless people who, for most of their lives, have been runners. For no other reason than that is what they are. There have also been people who were drawn into running by something that happened to them or to a loved one and because of that they have become runners. Even though I have always been athletic in some form or another for most of my life I would not call myself a runner. It is not an obsession, if I take a week off I do not crave or miss it. I ran for a brief stint years ago because some friends of mine decided to start running, but like most things it didn't last. Then this past year after quitting smoking I decided to run so I wouldn't gain weight. Even with that in mind I still needed more so I joined TNT and for the better part of 5 months I was a runner. Then after my event I reverted back to being the non-running Bob, excuse making Bob, Lazyboy Bob!
I am not sure why I say this now other than maybe just that...to say it. To get it off my chest and start over fresh. I am back to running again and it feel great both physically and mentally, but still the push isn't there like it was last year. that is until yesterday.
The 2006 Ironman from Hawaii was on TV and I just happen to catch it. This was the first time since I started running that I have seen any type of endurance event and the stories to go along with it. Call it fate or carma or intervention, but timing is everything!!! The first bit of inspiration I saw was team Hoyt. http://www.teamhoyt.com/history.shtml For those of you who are unfamilar with them please take a second and check out the attached link. What an amazing man! My wife Beth was down stairs doing some cleaning and I called her up to see their story. She said "thanks" for calling me up to see that and I think that is well said.
Next was an army officer who, while in Iraq had his foot blown off by a land mine. Then there was sister Madonna, a 76 year old nun participating in her 20th Iron man and then there was the story of Jon Blais and Brian Breen. In 2005 Jon Blais ran in the Ironman to promote awareness and raise money for ALS, which he had. One of the things he said while doing an interview back then was he would finish even if they had to roll him over the finish line. Well he finished and he rolled himself over the line. By the time the 2006 event came around he was confined to a wheelchair and could no longer walk let alone run. So in stepped tri-athlete Brian Breen, who before 2005 had never heard of Jon Blais. In 2006 however, he was running, biking and swimming for ALS. And how did he finish? Yep, he rolled himself over the line! Man how can I ever complain about cramps, quads, blisters, headaches again! Seriously?!!??
So this week starts my second trek into marathoning and I have a whole new set of challenges and goals. A new set of expectations and people behind me. Unlike last year my goal is not to just finish, but to make a difference. And in case I don't say it later... thanks!!! Thanks to the coaches, my team, the people I saw yesterday on TV and especially to my wife and kids. Without you I am nothing.

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

IT'S OFFICIAL...

2007-08-02T08:54:00.001-04:00

I signed the dotted line on my second marathon yesterday! Honolulu in December!!! Once again I am raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through Team in Training. Here is a link to my fundraising web page.... http://www.active.com/donate/tntmi/tntmiBDeLisl1

More to come.....

R.P.D.

LITTLE HELP FROM ABOVE...

2007-07-24T10:46:00.000-04:00

Last Friday was one of those days where I just couldn't find the energy, enthusiasm, time, discipline to get out there and run. I knew I needed it however, so into my running clothes I went and at about 9:30pm I finally made it out the door. Now usually I have really good runs on days, or in this case night when I don't feel like running. I always thought it was like a reward for getting out there even though I didn't want to. That being said Friday was different...
A few times during my training and fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, my mind has turned to an old friend of mine who passed away from Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Friday, however was different. About 1/4 mile into my run I started to think about Mike and how one day he woke up with a baseball sized tumor on his shoulder. How his wife couldn't cook in the house because the sores in his mouth from treatment hurt too badly when he salivated. How after that 1st year he went into remission and he and his wife paid off all their bills and went to Australia, their dream vacation. And then sadly, the cancer coming back a finally taking his life.
Next thing I knew I was over a mile out and I could feel that I was running faster than normal, so I slowed my pace. As soon as I did that I got this tingle in my back that seemed to push me. As if to say you don't need to slow down. Now for those of you who know me, you know that I am not the "spiritual" type, but I really felt someone or something pushing me. Strangest and most energizing feeling I have ever had.
Between miles 1 and 2 another visual popped into my head. That of a jockey and a racehorse. I used to love to go to the race track and bet the ponies!! That tiny person using every ounce of energy to hold back an animal that just wants to run. Then at just the right moment the jockey relaxes their arms and lets the horse run. All the tension gone, pure speed!!! I love it!! I felt like the horse that was allowed to run, no holding back, no tension. man it was cool.
Now most of you know that I am by no means a race horse!!! As a matter of fact I have never run sub 9 minute miles back to back before. So you can imagine my surprise when I finished my 3 miles in 26:28. At least three times during my run I felt that push in my back and honestly I felt as though I could have run forever, but I was so excited I had to stop and tell my wife about what happened!
Just thought I would share that with you and maybe remind you of those people in your life that make a difference and those who are no longer with us and yet they are, giving us that push when we need it!

Have a great day,

R.P.D.

THOSE DAMN HILLS.....

2007-07-16T12:06:00.000-04:00

You know, whenever you hear the phrase "necessary evil" be wary! Yesterday before we headed out for our training run in Lake Orion I heard that phrase at least 2 maybe 3 times concerning the hills on our course. Having run out here before I barely gave them a second thought. The thing I forgot was that I was actually training the last time.

Let me start by saying thanks to the volunteers that came out for support and to man the aid stations. I hate to carry water, so thanks!! Also thanks to coaches Ken and Sandy for leading the way. Great idea to use flour to mark the course instead of paint!!! My goal was to run double digits and since it was an out and back I either had to go 5 or 6 miles out. Since the mile between 4 and 5 was ALL uphill I decided on 10 miles. Even though, as I said, the course was an out and back, the way out seemed tougher. That is peculiar because I was running with 3 other people most of the way. Way to go Tim and Ken for doing 8 and Tim C. for 12. Speaking of Tim C., he brought me a double jogging stroller for me that his sister was selling, now I can run with the kiddies!!!

I think part of the reason the out part of the course was harder is because every down hill I ran I thought, that will be an uphill on the way back!! Bad brain!!!! Anywho, I ran by myself from miles 5 to about 8 which is where I realized that I hadn't run double digit miles since my marathon in October and I started getting those poisonous thoughts in my head. You know the ones about walking for a bit!!! Just then I heard footsteps and Jeff came running by, he slowed a bit and after exchanging pleasantries we ran together for most of the last 2 miles. Jeff is one of those people who marathoners call crazy! He told me that he just ran a half Ironman last Sunday and ran 20 miles on the day before our run. Not to mention several other runs during the week. It was right about then my left knee started to hurt, I swear just hearing about the miles he put in caused it! It was nothing major so I finished through it and I was very happy with the run overall.

Up until yesterday I was getting frustrated because I am having trouble getting faster. Not so much because of my body, but because of my breathing. This was the first run in a while that I didn't try to push the limits. I went out nice and slow and stayed there the whole run. I still want to get faster, but now I realize it won't happen over night.

Thanks for stopping by and the pictures are coming promise.

R.P.D.

SO IT BEGINS.....AGAIN...

2007-07-10T06:46:00.001-04:00

After a really great extended weekend of family and golf it is time again. Time to start training in earnest. Just over 5 months (I wish I knew how to add one of those clocks to my blog homepage!) to go until my next delve into the marathon realm and I am more than a little nervous. I can't put my finger on why? The first time around I had no idea what to expect, sure my coaches told me about hydration, fueling, etc., but every day was a new milestone that culminated in San Francisco. This time I kind of know what is coming.
Last year after I quit smoking, about a month after actually, I had one of those "Oh my goodness look at you" moments and right then and there I decided that I needed to get up and do something. I did not want to end up a former smoker with a weight problem. Well this past weekend it happened again. As I mentioned in my last post I ran in the Freedom Run a week ago this past Sunday. Well, my wife Beth took some pictures or my son and I before, during and after the race. I forgot all about the pictures and hadn't seen them. Until this past weekend that is! I am sure everyone who reads this has had that moment. That moment when you think why didn't anyone tell me I looked like that. F...A...T... It honestly looked as though I had a pillow under my T-shirt! I guess eating for a marathon has to go hand in hand with TRAINING for a marathon.
And so it begins. Time to start sweating, logging those miles and fundraising. Even though it won't be official until August 1st when I go to the info meeting training has begun....

R.P.D.

FREEDOM RUN....POST RUN

2007-07-02T07:30:00.000-04:00

Last year around this time, when this whole running thing started I figured it was time to find a race to run. I found this 5K in Clawson called the Freedom Run http://www.freedom-run.com/ . It was close and cheap so away I went. Turned out to be a great little run, about 150 people thru the neighborhood around a small little park, the name of which escapes me right now. So even though my training has been somewhat non-existent when the time came around again this year I figured what the heck.
As I mentioned a few posts back my stepson decided to run with me a few times and I thought this would be a good first race for him. So for the first time, for any race, I packed up the family and away we went. Nate, my stepson, was staying at a friend's house and asked if his buddy could come and I said sure no problem. Once we got our numbers and T-shirts, which I have to say for the low entry fee ($10.00) the shirts are really cool, we had almost a hour to kill so Beth, my wife and the little ones went to the playground and the 2 boys and I went off to the start, after we showed Beth where the finish was so she could see us come in. Thanks again to her for coming. :o)
I told the boys that they were going to want to run fast at the start, but that we would keep it slow. The first 1/2 mile I think I told them to slow down about a half dozen times. After that I didn't need to mention it. This was my first run since before Father's Day when I hurt my back and to be honest it felt really good. Most of the first 2 miles I was directing traffic and telling Nate's buddy Jacob to pick up his feet! After a quick drink of water I picked up the pace just a bit and both boys started to lag a little, to their credit however they didn't lag for long and as we approached the finish they had to make sure to beat the old guy to the line. Which the old guy, me, was more than willing to allow. We finished under 30 minutes which is what I was shooting for considering this was his first race.
All in all I think he enjoyed it. He is starting to appreciate what it takes to run distances and with a little friendly prodding on my part I think he might make a good little running partner for me, until he gets too fast that is!! It was really nice to have Beth and the kids there cheering us on, even without the signs!!

R.P.D.

TIGER 2ND PLACE ON PURPOSE??????

2007-06-19T13:38:00.001-04:00

This past weekend the US Open took place in up state Pennsylvania. The US Open is one of the 4 "majors" in golf for those of you who didn't know. Now, unless you have been under a rock for the past 10 years you know Tiger Woods IS golf. He is far better than anyone else on tour bar none, end of arguement!! So to see him play the way he did on Sunday, leaving puts 3 feet short, missing greens, just barely missing birdie putt after birdie putt. Left me wondering what was up, things just seemed wrong. Then today I come to find out that his wife just had their first child, a baby girl named Sam, on Monday. As soon as I heard that everything fell into place. You see the US Open is the only tournament that, if there is a tie, the golfers tied play another 18 hole match the next day. You see where I am going with this? Unlike the sudden death one hole playoff that all other tourneys have, Tiger would have played another day, the day his daughter was born.

So what I think happened is he played just good enough to make it look like he was trying, when in reality we didn't want to take a chance and end up tied!

Something to ponder!

R.P.D.

P.S.

A few thoughts I forgot to mention...

It is nice to see someone famous name their child something normal like Sam Woods, instead of Apple or some of the other crazy names out there. See Angelina Jolie

What does it say about Golf when an over weight chain smoker wins? See Angel Cabrera.

and lastly...I can completely understand Tiger wanting to show off his body. He has obviously been working out big time and he looks great, but please tape down the nipples if you are planning on wearing the skin tight mock turtle necks!! That was almost as bad as watching Phil Mickelson and his man boobs!

Have a great day!!!

OH MY ACHIN BACK...

2007-06-18T12:21:00.000-04:00

You know you're getting old when you throw your back out putting a bar-b-que grill together. The funny thing is I felt the same area tighten a few times during runs lately. I guess I need to listen to my body's cues a little better. As for now I am unable to much of anything without pain except for standing. Horses sleep standing up right?

Anyway, does anyone out there have any cures, remedies, or good drugs? It is muscular because the pain is not on my spine, but offset to the left. Any advise will be greatly appreciated!

R.P.D.

FREE...FREE...FREE!!!!!!

2007-06-16T07:33:00.000-04:00

Well it has been a pretty slow week for me in the running department so I don't have much to say on that front. I do, however, want to say something about the word "free". No, not the free as in freedom, but free as in no cost. The other day, I think it was Wednesday, an insurance company decided as a promotion they would team up with a gas station and give away free gas. 10 gallons per customer until it was gone. Now with the price of gas today sounds great right? 6:30am is when this festival of generosity was to start and wouldn't you know it it is right on my way to work. After driving by the gas station that was surrounded by maybe 6 police cars (tax payer cost) I continued on my way to work, all be it very slowly because of the traffic back up. Which stretch for, this is what amazes me, 3 miles!! Plus another mile on two roads heading to the station from the other direction. I swear if i was to give away free bags of crap people would line up to get some. It is free after all!!!

I am the type of person who feels time is valuable, and sitting for 2 maybe 3 hours waiting for $30.00 worth of free gas is an unbelievable waste of that time. Even those people at the front of the line had to get there at 5am, if not sooner. I am not even going to get into all of the police that had to be involved directing traffic, even a mile away from the gas station. Or the people who were trying to pull out onto the street and couldn't because all of the people in line for gas had the intersections blocked and couldn't move. The thing that really amazed me was the people driving along with me who saw how long the line was and they still made a U turn and took their place at the end.

For those folks...just look for the sign "FREE BAGS O CRAP THIS WAY" I'll be the one selling lemonade for $1.00 a glass!!!

Have a great day!!

R.P.D.

JOGGER OR RUNNER.....

2007-06-11T08:57:00.000-04:00

So I was scanning through the July 07 issue of runner's world this morning and I came across an interesting advertisement for the Pearl Izumi running shoe. http://www.wearenotjoggers.com/home
In a nutshell it says that we as humans have running hardwired into our DNA because of the fact that our ancestors needed to run down prey and run to escape predators. It got me to thinking and I am definitely a jogger and I want to become a runner. I am not stressing, but increasing my speed has been in the forefront of my thoughts lately.
I took Nate to Hanson's on Saturday and got him some good running shoes, Asics 2110's. The guy that helped us was talking to another customer about the upcoming World Championships in Japan and how he hoped to place around 15th. I think that really inspired Nate, at least I hope it did. We had barely gotten back home when he said he wanted to go running, so since I hadn't gone out yet I said sure. I figured he could do the first 3 of my 6 mile run. As we headed out I noticed he was staying behind me like when he rode his bike, so I told him that he didn't need to stay back there and to run with me. Next thing I know I am struggling to keep up with him at about 1.5 miles. Before he got too far out in front I asked how the shoes felt and told him to slow it down a little. I used the line about not wanting him to get injured by finishing to fast. Truth be told I wanted to slow down because I had 3 more miles to do after we finished!!!
A couple of observations, ok maybe just one... a 12 year old with no training is in much better shape than this 42 yr old!!! He wasn't even tired after 3 miles. So I dragged my self out to finish my 6 miles feeling much older than I am, but at the same time feeling a sort of inspiration. Thinking to myself that I really need to get faster so I can at least try to keep up with him.
So runner or jogger??? I really think I am changing from jogger to runner. I used to be happy just finishing, but now when I am out putting my miles in I picture myself passing the other "grey" hairs out there and realistic or not I want to take 50 minutes off of my first marathon time come December in Hawaii. Official training doesn't start for a couple of months so I am going use the time beforehand to increase the speed, safely and hopefully injury free. With a 12 year old in front of me and father time behind me I think I have all the encouragement I need!!!

R.P.D.

If you're not sure weather you are running or jogging, go faster!

FOLLOW UP...

2007-06-07T09:54:00.001-04:00

Just a quick little note as a follow up to the previous post.....

As I mentioned yesterday Nathan my 12 year old step son decided he wanted to go running with me. Well I got home from work yesterday and he tells me that at school in gym class they had to do a 12 minute run. His teacher said that everyone should try to do 4 laps or a mile in that time frame. Nathan did 6 laps or a mile and a half and finished in first place. He was so excited and was talking about signing up for cross country running!!! The funny thing is he ran in basketball shoes! It might be time for a trip to Hanson's!!

Have a great day,
R.P.D.

P.S.
ran 4 miles yesterday and added another picture to the collection. No noticeable difference yet.

The difference between a jogger and a runner is an entry blank...Dr. George Sheehan

MOTIVATION AT IT'S FINEST

2007-06-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

First things first, I have been taking the head shots and I will post them when I can find the time.
I have actually been running on a somewhat regular basis, but just this part Monday my 12 year decided he wanted to run with me. I was so excited!!! Now my kids have gone with me before, but this was the first time 'running', usually they ride their bikes. Beccah, my 10 year old daughter decided to come along as well, rollerblading. We started out very slow and maintained about a 10 minute per pace. Beccah's constant banter in the background along with Nate's stomping feet, does anyone know of a good drill to stop that?? I call it the heavy feet syndrome. After about 1.5 miles everyone seemed to be doing ok, so I picked up the pace slightly without out any complaints we pushed on.
Now as most everyone knows running with someone is so much easier than running alone, but this was really special. When I was a kid, right around the same age as Nate my dad would occasionally run. He was one of those people who, if he gained weight could exercise for a month or so and lose it. So those were special times. Just over one year later he would pass away due to complications from open heart surgery. If only I would have known how little time we actually had, but at 12 who thinks of such things? So Monday was one of those circle of life moments that did two things. First it reminded me of my dad and the good, all be it short, times we had and second it reminded me of my mortality. I started doing the addition in my head, when Nate is 20 I will be 50. When Chloe, my youngest graduates from high school I will be 58. That coincidentally is the age my dad died.
So anyway, back to the run. We took my usual 5k route and were coming up on the last 200 yards or so and all of a sudden Nate decides he wants to sprint to the finish. Now as the "runner" in the family I wasn't going to let him beat the old man! So there we are racing, without saying a word to each other, to the finish. About 20 yds to go for some crazy reason I figured, you know what let the kid win, but make it close!
I must be getting soft in my old age.

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

The rules for parents are but three... love, limit, and let them be. - Elaine M. Ward

SPEED TRAINING WITH THE HANSON'S

2007-05-10T07:29:00.000-04:00

NO!!!! Not these guys, Hanson's Run shop puts on a training run every Tuesday at Dodge Park in Sterling heights. So I figured I would give it a shot. According to Tim, who I went there with, in the summer there are aprox. 70 to 80 people there on any given Tuesday!!!

I won't bore you with the details, but it is a great way to get miles in. Not only because you are in a group, but because of the way running splits builds up the mileage.

As far as the run itself I am woefully out of shape, but I don't think it will take long to back into the swing of things, knock on wood. I was still feeling the effects of my bout with food poisoning last week and drank copious amounts of water which caused a little discomfort, but I needed it. I think we ended up running just under 4 miles. My next race although I haven't officially signed up is the Karmano's 5K on June 16th. For anyone who reads this and is going to Bayshore, good luck and have fun. Al, good luck on your sub 4, you know you can do it!!!

The picture I talked about has been taken, I just haven't had time to post it.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day!!!

R.P.D.

ANOTHER SET BACK!!!

2007-05-07T06:59:00.002-04:00

Well, as hard as may or may not be to believe I had another set back last week.... Food poisoning of all things!!
After my run on Tuesday I felt fantastic, but when I woke up Wednesday morning I was super sore. All I kept thinking was, man how can I be so sore after only 3 miles. I most REALLY be out of shape!!! As the day went on I felt worse and worse, my arms and leg feeling as though they were weighted. Went straight to bed after work for a nice long nap. After about a hour at work Thursday I realized it was something more than being tired from running and went home from work. I didn't leave the house again until late Saturday. Leave the house? I didn't get out of bed except when necessary! How something that is that effortless can make sooooo tired is beyond me. It was work just trying to stand, by the time the weekend came I had lost almost 10 pounds and my legs were so cramped I couldn't sleep. Thank goodness that Sunday morning I woke with an appetite and as the day went along I felt better and better. Just in time for another work week, woohoo!!!!

So we'll try again tomorrow to get this running thing in gear and the first picture will be posted on Weds and hopefully every Weds. thereafter until December.

R.P.D.

Running...One year later

2007-05-02T06:54:00.000-04:00

As per my last post a year ago April I quit smoking and a year ago yesterday I started running. So what a perfect time to begin again!
For reasons I won't bore you with I haven't been running, at all! Boy have I paid for it, I am back to my pre-running weight, plus a few pounds! I feel terrible, have no energy, and not very fun to be around. I figured my 1 year anniversary was a fine time to get it going once again, so I squeezed into some running clothes waited for the rain to stop, and waited, and waited. Then Beth, my wife, had to go out so I waited some more. All told I thing I sat around in my running clothes for about 3 hours. Trying all the while to convince myself that I could just start tomorrow, but at shortly after 9:00pm the planets aligned and walked out the door. Some 29 minutes and 3 miles later I was back and man it felt good.
As is always the case running clears the mind. It works wonders to wipe away the days events, which is one reason I like running at night instead of the morning. One thing I decided to do is before and after photos. I have 220 (coincidentally how much I weigh now!!!) days until my next Marathon and I always wanted to document the change. Another thing that I am going to do is, once a week I am going to take a photo of my face and post it here, by Dec. I should have a nice progression series. So look for that starting tomorrow!
So with that I am out of here! See ya tomorrow!

R.P.D.

2007-04-02T12:25:00.000-04:00

So exactly 365 days, 28 minutes, 10 seconds ago I quit smoking. I can hardly believe it has been a year and what a year it has been!

YIPPEE for me!!!!!!

2007-03-28T06:51:00.000-04:00

BROTHER CAN YOU SPARE A DIME????

Well not a dime per say, what I do need however is a jogging stroller, double wide style!! Now that the weather is starting to break, even though there is a possibility for snow this weekend, my kids want to go running with me. Whenever the 2 oldest want to tag along they just hop on their bikes, but my 2 littles can't do that. So if anyone has an old stroller built for two I would like to buy it from ya. Or if you know somebody who might be willing to part with one, please drop me a line.

Thanks,
R.P.D.

A three year old child is a being who gets almost as much fun out of a fifty-six dollar set of swings as it does out of finding a small green worm. ~Bill Vaughan

In the United States today, there is a pervasive tendency to treat children as adults, and adults as children. The options of children are thus steadily expanded, while those of adults are progressively constricted. The result is unruly children and childish adults. ~Thomas Szasz

2007-03-23T08:47:00.000-04:00

TREADMILL VS. OUTSIDE

As many of you know, I say that like there are throngs of you reading this!!! I have not been putting in a lot of miles this winter. What running I have done has been dreadmill running. Well the weather is starting to break and I have actually gotten a few runs in in the great outdoors. I have noticed that when I run outside I am running about 30 secs. faster than I have been on the treadmill. This wouldn't be a concern except for the fact that I am having a hard time running the necessary miles because of fatigue, with the emphasis on fat!!
Is this something that you folks have experienced? If so do you know why this is?

Speaking of fat, why is it sooo easy to put in on and sooo hard to take it off?

Thanks for stopping by and have a fantastic weekend!!
R.P.D.

2007-03-20T07:03:00.000-04:00

300...
So I went to see what all the hullabaloo was about on Saturday with my wife. First time we have gone out in a very long time, without the kids anyway. I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Visually it was one of the best movies I have seen in quite sometime. Considering it was shot totally in studio in front of blue screen, my hat goes off to the film makers. Battle sequences were very stylized with a lot of slow motion, which I tend to dislike. It worked for me in this case however. I could have done without the droplets of blood floating around, but all in all it was well done. My only criticism would be of the dialogue. A few times I caught myself saying, they would never say that. Or they didn't even know what that is. If you are on the fence I would suggest seeing it. Overall rating A-
Now on to the running portion of this blog!!! Oh one more observation, where do they find so many guys with 6 pack Abs? Every guy in that movie was ripped, even the old ones like me. Made me feel very lazy!!
Yesterday, Monday was one of those days when running just didn't fit into my schedule. Up at 6am for work, out at 5pm, home for dinner, then bath time for the little ones. By the time I had an opportunity to run it was 8:30, but I told myself I needed to run so off to the fitness center I go. On the way there I realize why it was easier to train in the summer. It was a real DUH moment, I just stepped outside and ran in the summer. I really think I need to get some winter running gear for next year. I just don't have time to drive 20 minutes to the gym!!!
But to the gym I went and hit the quick start button at 9:35pm As usual the first mile sucked bad, but I found a rhythm and settled in for a quick, for me, 3 miles. Is it me or do you feel better after a run that you didn't want to do. I can't count the number of times I had to force myself to run and felt soooo much better afterwards!!
9 weeks and 4 days until Bayshore....made hotel reservations yesterday, registered for the race a week or so and maybe, just maybe I should start training in earnest sometime soon!!!

R.P.D.

In absence of clearly defined goals, we become strangely loyal to performing daily acts of trivia. Author Unknown

2007-03-13T12:25:00.000-04:00

So today is going to be the warmest day of the year so far and I actually brought my running stuff to work! Woohoo!! Just mapped out a 3, 4, and 5 mile loop around the shop. It is going to feel good to get out and run in shorts. I have been a wuss this winter and I need to stop making excuses, especially if I plan on doing Bayshore.

R.P.D.

2007-03-12T07:16:00.000-04:00

GOOD RACE, GREAT WEATHER AND COLD SHOULDERS...

Sunday I went to my first race since the marathon back in October. I honestly could not have asked for a better race to come back to. I met my team in front of Nemo's Bar and sent them on their way selling beads. You see the race was the Corktown St. Patrick's Day Parade and Races and we sold beads for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The gun went off and we were off. I almost started on a very bad note, you see I didn't know this was a gun start chip finish race so I figured we needed to run between the Start posts and just about got trampled trying to get there. This is the first time I have run through the streets of Detroit and it was very cool!! The buildings and city just looked different. My goal was to finish, which is sad considering it was just 4 miles, but it is what it is! Ended up finishing in 39.28, which I was very happy about. 10:04, 9:53, 9:44, 9:47. Got a couple of bananas and headed back to the bar. After a while of searching and 2 Bell's Porters. for the carbs mind you!!! I started to find the team and to my surprise they were out of beads. We really should have gotten more!!! Considering the weather was perfect, mid 50's and most of the people in attendance had already had a few beers in them, we could have sold twice as many as we did. Live and learn I guess!!

Hopefully my training will start in earnest now as I need to get my butt in gear for Bayshore!!
Thanks for stopping by...

R.P.D.

2007-03-07T07:54:00.000-05:00

NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME.....

6:00am...leave the house for work
6:30am...start work
5:00pm...leave work
5:25pm...get pitas for board meeting
5:35pm...get home say hi to everyone, change and leave for board meeting
6:15pm...arrive for board meeting and realize it starts at 7
6:25pm...stand in line for tread mill
6:30pm...start running
7:00pm...finish running
7:05pm...AYSO board meeting
8:52pm...leave board meeting
9:10pm...get home and put kids to bed
9:54pm...go to bed

The thing that amazes me is this...why with all of the new technology out there to make our lives easier do we have less free time?? Faster gas pumps, debit cards, speed dials, on line banking, self serve check outs, yada yada yada. Just food for thought.

Have a great day!!

R.P.D.

All of the biggest technological inventions created by man - the airplane, the automobile, the computer - says little about his intelligence, but speaks volumes about his laziness.
~Mark Kennedy

P.S.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070306/ap_on_sc/seabed_expedition
thought this was interesting.

2007-03-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

CORKTOWN PARADE AND RACES....

For everyone who will be downtown at the corktown races look for the Team in Training folks selling beads. We will be selling St. Patrick's Day beads for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Come on down and see us (and the parade) on sunday at 12:00pm.

R.P.D.

2007-03-02T08:19:00.000-05:00

HAVE I LOST IT?

Well, where to start?

I guess the best place is at the beginning, since that is where I am again, The Beginning. On October 22, 2006 the date of my first marathon I was a fit, lean machine. Nervous as a pimpled face kid on the first day of school, but ready none-the-less. Some 5 hours later I humbled my way across the finish line ready for my next challenge. Well, fast forward to today some 4 months later and I feel like such a loser!! I have run in week, no months. sure I'll get out here and there, but not like I should. I have gained all of the weight that I took off and running 4 miles is HARD!!

So having said that what do you think I do... right, sign up for a marathon that is 12 weeks away, what else!!! Bayshore here I come. I never said I was smart!! I have to tell ya I really really miss training. The sore legs, the ice baths, that feeling that you could run forever, Stony Creek, the TNT runners. So I am pretty excited about getting back into it. And hopefully come May 26th I will run my 2nd marathon, with a little courage, hope, and help I think I can make it.

R.P.D.

"Running is real and relatively simple - but it ain't easy." -Mark Will-Weber

2007-02-02T07:52:00.000-05:00

SOMETHING NEW......

Because of time constaints I found it necessary to try soemthing I have never done before. Run on a treadmill!! I had a board meeting for my local soccer association that was at our Community Center here in Warren. So for $5.00 and a little lesson in programming I was off!

A few observations... 6MPH on a treadmill seems awfully fast to me, or maybe I am just that far out of shape. 45 minutes on a treadmill is B O R I N G!!!!! and when you stop, the room starts!! This is something that needs to be shared!!! I almost passed out!! The treadmill stopped I got off to get a drink and the room was moving at 6 MPH. It took a good 30 seconds before the sensation went away. All in all the experience wasn't too bad, although I won't be trading in my road shoes any time soon. I do like the info provided by the treadmill, ie. calories burned, heart rate, mph., but can't you get that from a Garmin??

I have to admit that it felt very good to run again. 4 miles feels like a very long way, but with any luck my body will adjust quickly and I can get back up to speed!!

R.P.D.

2007-01-30T10:51:00.000-05:00

I DID IT!!!

A few things I realize after my run yesterday...
1. It doesn't take nearly as long to get out of shape as it did to get INTO shape.
2. 20 degrees is coooold, no matter how many layers you put on.
3. The wind sucks!!!!!

In all seriousness, the run was exactly what I needed and with any luck I can whip myself back into some resemblence of shape in no time.

thanks for stopping by.

R.P.D.

2007-01-29T13:14:00.000-05:00

SO ANYWAY......

There comes a point when you just need to say the heck with and move forward regardless of how you feel. For the better part of two months I have been dealing with health issues that were brought on by stress and/or tension. Because of said issues I haven't run in that span of time. Well the pounding my head is gone and my chest and head are finally clear of the congestion and I need to say that enough is enough, I really need to start getting those miles in again. Later this afternoon I am going to run, even if it is only 3 miles, I'm running!
So damn the cold, wind, snow and ice it's time to lace up the shoes, pull on the long johns and hit the pavement.

For the few that check in on a regular basis, sorry for the lack posts! I will do my best to keep things going. As I have said before the more I run, the more I write.

R.P.D.

P.S.
Thanks Ken for the kick in the pants, I needed it!

2006-12-28T08:50:00.000-05:00

STOP THAT POUNDING DAY 12.....

After my initial trip to the ER and 2 subsiquent trips to the doctor my head is still pounding and no one seems to know why.

The good news.... my doctor says it's not life threatening, but coming from someone who doesn't KNOW what's wrong I'm not comforted! My new meds do take the pain away, or I should say mask the pain, but make me a zombie in the process. So it's off to the neurologist to see if they can find anything in there. Frustrating doesn't do justice to how I am feeling right now.

R.P.D.

P.S.
Have a very very Happy New Year!!!!!!

2006-12-19T06:57:00.001-05:00

STOP THAT POUNDING...

So out of the blue on Sunday I get this really, really bad pressure/pain running across the back of my head. I've never had a migraine so I figure this could be the first. No blurred vision, no light sensitivity. Any how, after a short nap everything is better. Until about 10 minutes later and WHAM!!! it's back, only far worse. It feels like someone is sitting on my head. I decided that considering the stress I am under it would be a good idea to get checked out. An hour and a half later I am leaving the ER with a script for muscle relaxers and a house on my head.
Now I did not spend countless hours in anatomy class and I most certainly am not a Doctor, nor do I play one on TV, but....
Is it possible to pull a muscle in your head?!??

R.P.D.

My daughter called me her hero the other day! This area is set aside for inspirational quotes. I can't think of anything more inspirational than that!!!!

2006-12-13T09:55:00.000-05:00

WILL WONDERS NEVER CEASE.....

I actually ran last night. Now mind you it wasn't very far, but I RAN!!! I definately could have picked a better day weather wise. It was raining and cold and windy, but boy did it feel good! This is the first time that I have braved elements such as they were. Running in the rain is one of my favs, but running in THIS type of rain I must say was not an immensely enjoyable experience. The first half mile was like getting shot in the face with tiny needles and my hands were numb (forgot the gloves) in no time. Once I found my rythmn, however it went well.
On other fronts, this upcoming weekend is the semi-finals in my fantasy football league. Just one more win to make it to the superbowl, yee haw! It won't be easy though, I have to beat the league champ this week. I CAN DO IT!!!
Sorry not too much to say of late.

Merry Christmas to Tim, Margarita, Janet, Jill, Jayne, Steve, Ken, Matt, Bill, Beccah, Marilee, Angela, Sally, my "team", and to everyone else who has helped me, run with and been a friend to me.

R.P.D.

If you do not hope, you will not find what is beyond your hopes. St. Clement of Alexandra

2006-11-30T07:23:00.000-05:00

GIVING, GIVING, AND MORE GIVING.....

Last night on 20/20 they were doing a report on donations and the effect it has on a person. I have to tell you I couldn't agree with them more. Giving just makes you feel good. The great thing is you get to help someone else too.
Warren Buffett is going to donate 37 billion, yes that's billion with a B. Most of which will be going to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Now since I don't have $37.00 to donate, let alone billions, I donate my time. I am willing to bet right here and now that I feel better then Mr. Buffett does. Helping to change someone's life through monetary means is one thing, but to actually see the people you are helping is completely different. And you know it doesn't take all that much time. Little things can make such a difference. Especially at this time of year, when everyone is shopping for the holidays. On your way into the mall take an extra second and wait for the person trailing behind you. Hold the door open for them and look at their face, you will instantly feel better and so will they. All it takes is a few seconds and you could change a life. It may sound like an over simplification, but you REALLY can change a life and the great thing is, that life could be yours!! Drop a dollar into the red kettle and if you can't, tell the person there Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays, but make a point to say something. I never believed this before, but we really can change the world one person at a time and again the easiest place to start is that person in the mirror.

R.P.D.

P.S.
I need to start running again, it seems to inspire me to write and I miss my blog!!

2006-11-17T14:18:00.000-05:00

BO KNOWS.....

On the eve of possibly the biggest game in school history, Bo Schembechler died while taping a talk so about what else but the Michigan Wolverines. Love 'em or hate 'em you would be hard pressed to find anyone who did not respect Bo and his love for the kids that played at UofM. As a kid there was always something magical about that Saturday in November, not so much that it was OhioSt. v Michigan as it was Bo vs Woody. That was a time for giants and they were the biggest of all.
As far as the game tomorrow all I have to say is GO BLUE!!!! and God bless Bo!

2006-11-13T07:14:00.000-05:00

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.....

Time to get back into the swing of things! Because of various reasons I haven't been running lately and boy do I miss it. So starting today I am re-committing myself to the task! It's time to bundle up and hit the road. As I have written in previous blogs I have been suffering from Nicotine cravings lately and I know they directly related to my lack of running and I will not give into the beast. Every part of me misses the miles, from my mind that get clogged with the daily junk mail it receives, to my body that needs to feel the ache of the day after a hard run. I really do miss that! It makes me feel alive.

I was thinking yesterday while driving how much life is like traffic. I will just touch a few points and save the details for a later blog. Have you ever noticed when you aren't in a hurry to get anywhere you get there much quicker. You make every green light, no traffic jams, accidents, but if you try to hurry because you're late or just impatient every possible thing goes wrong? Life is a lot like that I find. If you just take your time and let the natural order of things happen you get to where you want to go much quicker, but try to force it and before you know it you're mired down in quicksand.

Have you ever noticed when on a long drive you will pass and sometimes drive with another car, bus, or truck and not really pay too much attention to them. Then sometime later, after stopping for gas, restroom break, etc. You find yourself passing them again. Life is like that as well. Sometimes you have friends in your life that you just drive along with and then things happen that make it necessary for you to stop and they keep going. After a time you catch back up the them and realize how have stayed the same.

I just saw some friends that I haven't seen in close to 15 years and after a few minutes of catching up we were all right back where we were all those years ago. It is quite a comforting feeling. Even though I don't talk to them as often as I should, it's good to know that there are people out there driving along the same road as I am. Just in case I get a flat tire!

R.P.D.

"Just in case I don't see you in the morning here's a hug to start your day. I love you Daddy"

Rebeccah DeLisle

How cool is that!!!!!

2006-11-10T13:56:00.000-05:00

BUSY WEEKEND, TURKEY TROT, CRAVINGS.....

How does it always work out that on weekends that I don't have to work I am the busiest? Just once in a while I would like to be able to relax, ya know!! Oh well, you know what hey say, idle hands are the devils workshop.

I signed up for the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning today, woohoo! This is my first 10K race since the 80's, man I am getting old. The last 10K I ran in was down river in Allen Park. I don't have any lofty goals other than finishing in less than 60 minutes. I continue to get a kick out of the reaction I get from people when I tell them about races like this. "Why on earth do you want to get up so early and run in what will probably cold weather?" They wouldn't understand!!!

I am still getting some pretty severe craving on a daily basis. They don't seem to be getting any worse, but they aren't dimishing either. The only reason I can figure for this recent outbreak is the fact they I haven't been running as much. Running was a huge motivator for me when I quit, because I knew that if I smoked I wouldn't run, and I HAD to run.

Have a fantastic weekend!

R.P.D.

We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon. Emil Zatopek

I know this quote is a repeat, but it is a favorite of mine a seems to fit my mood right at the moment.

2006-11-06T08:01:00.000-05:00

POST MARATHON RUN #1

So this past Saturday I finally got that run in that I have been craving. A small group of TNTers got together at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. The run was exactly what my body and mind needed. It's hard to explain to someone who hasn't caught the 'bug', but it's like a drug. I could feel my body relaxing and I just soaked the miles in! We did 5.5 miles at around 10 minute pace. This was my first time running on Paint Creek trail and I must say I enjoyed it. The trail was very easy to run on and running through the woods is always better than street running. Afterwards we got some cider and donuts, thanks Janet!! It was very cozy huddled in the corner trying to keep warm, outside!! All in all, the morning could not have been better. The run, the trail, the weather and the company. Especially the company, were perfect!!

R.P.D.

P.S. The pictures are of my marathon race shirt.

2006-11-03T08:18:00.000-05:00

MAN I COULD USE A SMOKE!!!!!!

For some ungodly reason I woke up this morning absolutely craving a cigarette! The first hit, the rush of smoke into my lungs, the first long exhale. Yikes, it makes me want to scream!!! I decided the best therapy is writing, so here I am. The first thing I did was look up some pictures to go along with this post and wouldn't you know it I found one that reminded me why I quit. Even though you can't see much of it, look at the innocence in that face. So for now the craving is gone. For those of you trying to quit or who have quit and are struggling, remember the reasons!!!

Thanks for stopping by,
R.P.D.

P.S.
Have you ever gotten the feeling that you have made everyone around mad and you don't know why? It's really strange, but I feel like that right now. So, if I did and/or said anything please accept my apologies.

Have a great day!

2006-11-02T07:08:00.000-05:00

TIME FOR A RUN......

Tonight, come hell or high water I am going to run. It has been 11 days since my marathon and I can't take it anymore!!!! I think I can squeeze 3, maybe 4 miles in tonight right after work, I'm so excited!!!

That's all for now, no preaching today!

R.P.D.

"It hurts up to a point and then it doesn't get any worse." Ann Trason

2006-11-01T07:39:00.000-05:00

WHERE HAVE ALL THE PEOPLE GONE?......

As I stated in my last blog, I was in downtown Detroit on Sunday and there are a few observations I would like to make.

First, there are some very beautiful buildings downtown. This was the first time in a very long time that I spent time walking around down there and the architecture is pretty cool. Not one building stands out more than the rest, but it really worth a look if you have a free afternoon.

Second, where is everybody. It was Sunday at 1:00pm and the streets were empty. And this was no regular Sunday, some 15,000 people had just competed in a marathon through the city. Understanding most of the runners were someplace healing, but what about their friends and family? All of the businesses were closed, we couldn't even find someplace to get coffee!! It was very sad to see.

Now I am not one to talk because it has been a very long time since I've ventured into the city and that statement I think tends to explain things. I, like most people do not live in the city and because of my schedule it is difficult to find the time to make the trip. You know something, that's such a cop out!!! The oldest of my kids is 11 and we have never taken a field trip downtown, which is wrong. Time to change.

I think it would go a long way to help if we all did that. Take an afternoon out of our hectic lives and go see the city, some of us for the first time. Ride the people mover just to look at all the different styles of artwork at the stops. Walk around the Renaissance Center and check out the cars. Stop for a bite at Lafayette Coney Island. Or just take a stroll and look at the buildings. I think you might be surprised and who knows eventually we might be able to get a coffee on a Sunday afternoon.

Just a thought, have a fantastic day!!

R.P.D.