Lagging

I felt kind of lethargic on this afternoon's 3-miler, like I was lagging behind the pack. Not sure what the deal was since I've slept all right the past few nights and allergies haven't been bothering me. Maybe I've been eating too much rich food, like the beef kind of rich food. Maybe I should eat smaller portions. Or eat something not so heavy. Maybe, but probably not.

Scrape

Tuesday evening I was taking out the trash and pivoted just outside the back screen door, which was closing behind me. As I pivoted, the back of my right heel scraped up the metal corner of the door, leaving a nice, long gouge. Yes, I swore. That kept me sidelined for Thursday but it felt good enough today.

There's a line from the late, great Kirstie Alley in her role from Cheers where her character, Rebecca Howe, has a bad moment and whines, "I am too stupid to live!" Well, I wasn't in that bad of a situation today, but still felt pretty idiotic. During my 4-mile run, I experienced a multiple instances where one knee or the other felt not quite right. I almost walked the last half-mile or so, but I focused on keeping my form moving straight and economical and all was good. However, when I got back inside and took off my shoes I realized I'd worn my walking shoes. In other words, the old pair of running shoes that I don't run in any more. I've now done that multiple times. I may not be too stupid to live, but maybe I'm too stupid to run.

In-Between Run

Today I had late-afternoon meetings and was able to get out for a 3-miler in between. The mercury got up to 84 degrees, which was a little cooler than the low 90s we had yesterday. I could feel the difference in temperature from last week, with a little more humidity. I felt like I was dragging a little, probably due to all the allergies over the past seven days. Or actually, a lifetime of allergies. Regardless, I overcame a sneezing fit this morning to still enjoy a run.

Allergy Week

Well, that was nice. After going for a birthday run on Tuesday, that evening I suffered a big allergy attack. It pretty much kicked my butt for a couple of days, and I thought it best to not run on Thursday and tempt fate even more. Especially since it was windy and that really seems to do the trick. Today, though, was much nicer. Sunshine, nice temperature, and even more important: very little breeze. After breakfast and coffee, I ran 4 miles. It was a good, steady run, and I went the whole way. Except for the big hill, of course. Then I spent an hour or so running the mower over the accumulated leaves in our yard, mulching them quite nicely. Now it's time to relax and hope the allergies stay away.

Another Birthday Run

What a nice day! Temperature was in the low to mid-50s this morning and I went a full 4 miles. Sun was shining, breeze very light, and just an all-around beauty of a day. Plus, it's also my birthday, and what better way to celebrate than to go for a run? I missed going out last Saturday due to cool and windy weather. I probably could have bundled up and went out, but I opted for laziness instead. Hey, at this age I'm entitled. Or so I hear.

Highs and Lows

Felt tired this afternoon for some reason. I started out fine, but by the time I got to 1.5 miles I felt like I could take a nap. That was the low part of the run. I walked a quarter-mile and then ran the rest of the way. I even kicked it into a sprint the last tenth. That was the high part of the run. It was another 3-mile outing and a beautiful day. I wish my run had matched the weather, but hey, i got out the door. That has to count for something.

Really Nice

It was almost too nice today. Temperature was 62 degrees, the sun shone in a cloudless sky, and barely a hint of a breeze. I went the usual 3-mile route, with walks at beginning and end. For math nerds, that made the overall total 3.3 miles, but I only count the running part in my reporting. I was glad to make it out today, since the weekend days were rainy and cool. As of today, subject to change tomorrow, the forecast is looking good with no precipitation or freezing temperatures through next week. Let's run!

Running in the 70s

The temperature was mild again, in the low 70s, and I ran 3miles. As mentioned last time, I'd planned on going more but just wasn't feeling it. And no reason to risk injury for just another mile. Gotta love these nice days in February. I think a little rain is in the forecast over the weekend, but I'll believe it when I see it.

Cooler Than It Should Be

On most days, especially during winter, 62 degrees would be a decent temperature. Today it felt cooler than it should have, even though the breeze wasn't that strong. I decided to go 3 miles, hoping to ratchet it up by a mile each outing this week. I mean, really, a day like today is outstanding in early February. No complaints here, and happy for a nice run.

Cool Sunday

I did the Sunday run this week since I had Saturday obligations. Today was a little on the cool side with a breeze from the north, with the mercury hovering around 50 degrees. I went 4 miles, with a quarter-mile walk at the three-mile mark. That was due to my heart rate being a little high, so I walked a little to bring it back down. Overall, it was a good outing. Not many people out on the paths, but that's okay. I enjoyed it and left myself enough energy to do some yardwork as well.

Another!

Today was absolutely gorgeous. 74 degrees when I went out late afternoon and barely any wind. I figured I should go at least three miles, maybe a half-mile more, and ended up with a tally of 4 miles. I thought about walking before I got to the turnaround but ended up running all the way (except the big hill). Why not? It was a really good run and an awesome day. No arguments here. 

Make-Up

Didn't run Saturday since it was cold and windy and I didn't run yesterday because I did other stuff. Today was nice, though, about 70 degrees and non-windy. I ran 3 miles and honestly, it felt a little like a struggle. Maybe because I didn't sleep well last night. Oh well, I did the rare Monday run and am glad I did.

Back from Vegas

Well, last Saturday I spent most of the day doing the things and getting ready for a trip out of town. I left on Sunday and returned late yesterday. Three full days in Las Vegas meant I was ready for some exercise. Even thought it's a little bit cool and overcast, my schedule today allowed me to get out for a run by late morning. I ran 3 miles and it did feel good after all the joys of modern travel. No travel in the immediate forecast for me, which I'm hoping means I can get back into a regular rhythm of goodness.

Breezy Outing

Didn't get out today until about 4:40 p.m., an hour or so before sunset. A little breeze from the north kept it pretty cool even though the temp was supposedly 58 degrees. I ran in shorts and long-sleeved tee. It felt nice and easy today and I went 3 miles with a sprint at the end. It was nice to feel like I could've run longer. Cold is back in the forecast starting tomorrow but I plan on getting out Saturday unless it turns ugly.

Geography Matters

Geography matters in a few ways. For instance, last week I was on the beach in Mexico and no way was I going to run. It would've ruined the general sense of laziness I enjoyed. I did go for a few walks, but they were mostly leisurely and counted for about as little activity as I could get away with.

Geography also matters in how I perceived today versus when we lived in Kansas City. Today in Texas the temperature at run-time was about 26 degrees. It was really cold and I wanted to turn around before I even made it a quarter-mile. However, I persevered and made it for a whole 2.5 mile outing. Compare that to the times in KC when the thermometer hit 26 degrees in January. I would've been ecstatic during some of those brutal winters. In fact, there were times that felt downright warm. Today, though, it was far from it. It's supposed to get warmer as the week goes along and I'm fine with that.

Four for Saturday

I waited until afternoon to run today since this morning just didn't look nice. The high today is only 48 degrees with a good breeze from the north, but at least the sun poked out after lunch. I ran 4 miles and overall felt much better than earlier in the week. It was nice to get some sunlight during the middle of winter. I didn't get out Thursday due to it being rainy so I was determined to get out today. Mission accomplished.

Number 2,000

This is post number 2,000. This log that I started in December 2006 has lasted 17 years now. I did it to track my progress in running a marathon and now 10 marathons and a bunch of halfs later I'm still going. My youngest daughter asked me yesterday if I would like to run a half with her later this year and of course I said yes. So, now I have a goal.

2,000 posts doesn't mean 2,000 runs. Some posts encompassed multiple runs while others recapped a walk. I guess that means I've done 2,000ish runs. This has been a simple way for me to log each one and go back someday to see what I experienced along the way. Hopefully there's plenty more to write about.

Last One?

Was today the last run of 2023? If so, it wasn't great. I ran a mile and walked another for a total of 2 miles. Just wasn't feeling it, I guess. It was a nice enough day, a little on the cool side with a breeze, but at least the sun was shining.

Which brings up the year in review: how did it go? Okay, I guess. I really do need a goal for next year, like a 10k or a half. The only race I ran this year was the turkey trot, which was fun but not really a stretch goal. All said, though, I'm still glad to be running. It's a good time of relaxation and keeps me reasonably fit. If I can avoid injury and laziness in 2024 that'll be a good thing.

Crispy Run

This morning it was crisp - very cool temperature, breezy, but at least the sun was out. I bundled up for my 4-mile run. Strangely enough, there weren't a lot of people out the day after Christmas. The run itself was good and I'm glad to be on the increase again with mileage. Hoping I can keep that up in the new year. And glad I didn't let the coldness keep my inside.

Misty Run

This morning was supposedly heavy fog, but in reality it was just misty. I needed to get out since I didn't have the chance on Thursday. I ran 4 miles. Overall, I felt good and the effort not too much. I thought about doing a shorter run, but then I figured: why? I wasn't in a hurry and in the holiday season I need the exercise. I spent the afternoon watching a friend work on the brakes on his truck and then coming home and making salsa verde. It's Christmas time!

Walking with The Wife

I had time in my work schedule to walk with The Wife yesterday, so I did. We walked just over 2 miles and it was a bit cool and windy. It was a nice, brisk walk with someone I happen to like a lot. My rib feels almost all the way better. It's weird because it seems to ache when I first wake up but fades as the day goes by. We have rain in the forecast coming up, so we'll see how I can get out between storms.

Frost

Frost on the ground this morning in north Texas and temperature was just above freezing when I went out. The sun was shining and the air was still, which made for a nice setting. I drove to Oklahoma and back yesterday and I felt a little stiff after 7+ hours in the car. This morning I walked briefly, ran 1.85, and then walked the last mile for a total of 3 miles I wasn't in a hurry and that was nice. I think today calls for maximum relaxation.

Odd Run

The mailman delivered a piece of mail the other day that belongs to the same house number, just a street over. So I started my exercise today by walking over and back and then going the regular route. That was a little odd but worked out okay. The good news is I took a few running steps and the pain in my ribs seemed dull. After a few yards it went away and seemed like I could keep going. I really didn't feel it the rest of the way, going 3 miles total and including 1.5 miles of running. I'm back!

Tender Ribs

The ribs are still tender so I walked again today. 2.5 miles or so - I had to make the turn a bit early since some lady was walking three dogs ahead of me and two of them got free when a couple walking toward me passed them by. I decided I didn't want to get in that mess and made an about-face. Very breezy today although the sun was out. I wore long-sleeved shirt and long pants, which turned out to be a good decision. I'd originally thought of wearing shorts but didn't regret going with pants instead.

Ribs

 About 3-4 weeks ago The Wife injured her ribs, I think by bending over a grocery freezer and popping a lower rib. I told her I'd never heard of that but watched her suffer quite a bit before it healed. Then I did the same thing last Friday leaning into my truck's engine compartment to check the oil. What are the odds?

Thursday it rained. Needless to say, but I'll say it anyway, I didn't run Saturday. Today I took two jogging steps and decided running wasn't for me. So, I walked 2.5 miles. That went okay but I really wanted to keep up the running progression. It might be next week before running is back in the plan. *sigh*

More in the Fall

Another nice autumn day here in north Texas. Just a few degrees under 60 with sun and hardly any breeze to speak of. I went 3.5 miles this time and thought about going another half-mile but decided I felt a little dead-legged. Saw a hot air balloon to the east and a couple of guys walking their dogs, but not much else. Pity since it was such a nice day.

Post-Turkey Run

That stomach virus earlier this week helped me shed four pounds or so, and I did my best to make it back the last couple of days. So today was important for doing my best to maintain some semblance of fitness over the holiday weekend. Temperature was in the low 50s but sunshine-y with a light breeze. I ran 4 miles plus the walking at the beginning and the end. Overall, a pleasant outing that saw me start off wondering if I'd go the distance but ended up making it with gas still in the tank. Plus, gotta take advantage of the cooler weather while it's around and bearable.

Turkey Trot 2023

Ran a turkey trot today for the first time since we moved to Texas from KC, I think. We used to do the Parkville Turkey Trot as a family, but kind of got away from the tradition as the years went by. Daughter #2 asked if I wanted to do one this year, so we did. Got in my 3.11 miles first thing and now it's on to breakfast and more. My run earlier this week was derailed by a fast-moving stomach virus. It hit Monday and left Tuesday, but I didn't feel 100% and decided it would be smart to skip it in lieu of resting. There it is, proof once in a while I actually do something smart.

Darn Near Perfect

Temperature in the upper 50s and sunshine today, almost a perfect day. Tiny breeze out of the north, barely enough to mention. I ran 4 miles overall and felt good the whole way. Plenty of people out today, including a father/son group along the bridge by the pond in the neighborhood to the north. Mostly blocking it on the way out and only slightly on the way back. Other than that, I didn't see a ton of people out, which is kind of amazing considering how nice it is. I'm ready for the Turkey Trot next week. Other than packet pickup, of course.

Avoiding the Dogs

Maybe it's just a function of the times. I ran 3.4 miles but it should've been 3.5. I turned around right before I got to a couple walking their dogs so I wouldn't have to pass them one way and immediately going the other. Then when I got back in the neighborhood I ran by the first house, with a fence running the length of the sidewalk. It was missing a small piece last week and now another, bigger, piece close to street. That dog is a dick. He snapped at me through the missing plank and if it was up to him would've crashed through and eaten me for an appetizer. Last week there was the dog across the street barely a hundred yards west. Maybe I should start carrying dog spray. Anyway, it was a beautiful day and a nice run, dogs notwithstanding. And this is from a dog person.

Pleasant Run

The day was mostly overcast but the clouds parted a bit this afternoon. Temperatures reached the upper 60s and it was a very pleasant day for a run. I thought about going longer than 3 miles but since I'm planning on running a couple more times this week I decided to ramp up on the next couple of runs. Looks likes it's supposed to stay this nice at least through Saturday before a chance of rain moves in. I'll take it.

This is the Week

I count today's run as part of the past Monday-Sunday week, so that means I got in two outings the past week. Better than the previous week. I think this is the week I get back on track. Not the track, just on track. Wanted to clarify. I ran 3 miles today with a temprature in the mid-60s. It was a nice afternoon for running. Last week I signed up for a Turkey Trot with Daughter #2. At least I can run that distance with no issues these days.

Slow Month

Yes, October ended up being a slow month for running. Last week I kind of let it all slide with my parents in town and lots of work obligations. Today I had a chance to get out before it got dark (screw you, daylight savings time) with a temperature of 84 degrees on a November day. The breeze was high and it felt good, but after more than a week off I walked most of a 2.5-mile walk. I ran about .4 of a mile early on but decided to take it easy. Not sure about running on Thursday since rain is in the forecast. We'll see. Hoping to make this a less-slow month.

Between Storms

Lots of rain overnight and this morning, and more expected this evening. Fortunately, a gap between storms arrived this afternoon and I had the chance to get out. I ran 4 miles with the temperature about 60 degrees. The creeks and ponds are way high and I expect they'll rise even more by the time the rain is all done. I walked up the big hill, as usual, and sprinted the last bit into the neighborhood. Overall, a good outing in good conditions.

A Little Water

It's amazing to me how we can go pretty much five months without rain of any kind to a couple of days of rain that causes the creeks to overflow. I guess the ground can't soak it all up or something. The creek I run over on Lake Forest was over its banks and probably has gone down a little bit today. We're due for more rain over the weekend so we'll see how it goes. Rain was the reason I didn't get out on Tuesday.

Today was a different story. I ran at lunchtime since I have a late call this afternoon and went 3.3 miles total. Just like before, I started running from my old spot after a short walking warm-up. Once again it felt pretty good and I think on Saturday, as long as it's not raining, I can run a bit longer. Even though I do love summer, it's nice to run when the sky is overcast and the temperature is only 72. A bit humid, but that's okay.

Multiple Outings

 I walked 1.25 miles with The Wife this morning and then stopped by the house to pick up my iPod before embarking on another 3.3 miles. The extra .3 is because I started running at the old spot, which used to be the usual mark for tracking my mileage. It's .15 miles from the house, so multiply it by two to get the .3. This is the first time I started running from the neighborhood in a long while, and I ran the whole 3 miles except for the big hill on the way back. It's a nice day, a little overcast, but the temperature and breeze feel good. After getting back I harvested the turd crop in the backyard and then mowed, putting me over 12,000 steps before noon. Time to relax the rest of the day.

Three Again

A nice day again, about 74 degrees at run time with sun and a light breeze. Another 4 miles with a half-mile walk to begin and end, a whole three miles in the middle without stopping. I figured I should go for it since I probably won't be able to get out on Thursday. Maybe tomorrow, but it will be just a walk if I do.

Eclipse Run

Solar eclipse today in Texas, and as I ran it started. It was pretty cool to see the crescent sunlight on the ground as it filtered through the trees. I went 4 miles total and ran 3 miles straight. It helped that the temperature was in the 50s with a cool breeze from the north. I actually ran a few hundred yards once I got back to the neighborhood since I spotted The Wife walking ahead of me. It was nice to run without breaks and the momentum toward higher mileage continues.

Around Work

I found an unexpected gap in my work schedule today and got out for a walk/run, which was nice because I have a late afternoon meeting that puts a crimp in my exercise schedule. It's a gray, cloudy day and temperature is only around 70 degrees with a breeze from the south. Almost underdressed in shorts and t-shirt but somehow survived. I went 3 miles total, with half of that running, once again in half-mile increments. I sprinted at the end of the third one and overall felt good. Still planning to increase mileage as the weather cools.

Anniversary Walk

Missed a few days of exercise due to a trip to Georgia to see family I did get in a little walking on Saturday when I took my nephew to a UGA football game. We got back yesterday and today is our anniversary, so The Wife and I went for a nice 3-mile walk. Temperature was only 71 degrees and it's a pleasant day, in many ways. Hard to believe we've been married this long, especially the part where someone would stick with me so many years. Every one of those years has been a gift.

I Love the 80s

Okay, the title is a reference to the temperature today, but I also did love the '80s. It was pleasant outside, sunny, with a nice breeze from the south. Rain is supposed to move in tomorrow night but as I've said before, I'll believe it when I see it. I walked 3 miles today, mainly due to soreness from yesterday when I was snaking a bathroom drain. Interesting that contorting myself into unnatural postions under a sink results in aches and pains the next day. Such is life for someone who lived through the '80s.

Late-Morning, Post-Coffee

The Wife and I went out to breakfast this morning, which was nice but delayed my exercise by a few hours. I went for a 4-miler and ran 2.5 miles of it in .5, 1.5, and .5 mile increments. The temperature wasn't too bad, nor was the humidity, and a nice breeze out of the southwest hit me at some good moments. I still feel like I'm doing well on the road to increasing mileage back to what it was a few years ago.

94?

The temperature says 94 degrees but it doesn't feel like it. Maybe it's because I went out for my walk/run after 5 p.m. as the sun was getting lower. I ran half of the 3 miles in half-mile increments, as I've done before. Even sprinted the last few hundred yards for a literal change of pace. There wasn't much breeze, which again makes me wonder why it didn't feel as hot as the thermometer said. Oh, well, I'll take it.

Sunny Walk

We finally got some rain Sunday night, which cooled things off briefly, but today we're back into the low 90s with lots of sun. I determined this was another good time to walk instead of running. It was a brisk pace, especially since usually I take a little bit to warm up. I can tell we're heading toward the end of the year as the shadows from the fences and trees grow longer. Overall, 3 miles and nothing unusual about it.

Normaler

Today seemed like a normal Saturday, temperature this morning in the upper 70s. I went 4 miles total, running half of that in half-mile intervals. I got out before 8 a.m. so I could come home and eat breakfast and drink my coffee at a leisurely pace. Running felt fine, although at the end I upped the pace and got the heart rate up nice and high. Yeah, that's normal, too.

Skating Fail

This was a new one on me today: almost a mile into my walk and a girl went by me on old-style four-wheel skates. She got about five steps ahead of me and fell. Poor kid, she was probably a high school sophomore or so, wearing backpacks both front and back. I helped her up and she said something about the weight of the backpacks, but I didn't really hear since I was wearing earbuds. Anyway, she seemed okay and skated off. Guess I did my good deed for the day.

Other than that the 3-mile seemed routine. Temperatures still in the low 90s but very breezy, and this might be our last week of hitting 90. We'll see. On Saturday's outing I'll try some running again.

A Little Walking, A Little Running

Today I got out for a 3-miler with storm clouds on the western horizon. I walked a half-mile, ran a half-mile, walked two-tenths of a mile, and was going to run another half but stopped after a quarter. All I can say about that is my knees felt...rickety. Not sure the cause, but I decided to walk the rest of the way. They feel fine now, a couple hours later, and whatever was going on was apparently temporary. I also mowed the back yard after returning home, where I got a few spits of rain but not much else. Youngest Daughter and I went out for dinner and I used the windshield wipers on the truck a little, but again, not much to report from the "storm."

40 Degrees

What a difference 40 degrees makes. A couple of weeks ago I was walking in 107 degrees and this morning started off at 67. Wow.

I missed Thursday's outing due to allergies. They kicked my butt starting Tuesday and by Wednesday I felt like I'd been beaten up multiple times. Seems like the allergy attacks have been more intense the past few years, almost putting me down for the count for multiple days. It sucks. Yesterday I felt almost back to normal. Today I was going to run as much as possible, but in the second interval I felt the effects of the allergies with breathing, so I stuck to 3 miles and ran half of it. Here's hoping the allergies take a hike and I can enjoy running more in the cooler weather.

Seriously

Today the temperature not only stayed in the low 80s but we also got a trace of rain this morning. Which means, of course, that it's time for my allergies to make a grand entrance. Seriously???????

About noon I felt sinus pressure and my head felt stuffy, and then as the afternoon wore on the mucous started running. Again I ask, seriously? So much for getting a chance to enjoy the nice weather.

Regardless, I went out for a walk. I'd planned on running but walked 3 miles instead, with plenty of snot rockets along the way. I got in my exercise, but seriously???????

Broken

The heat broke today and it looks like summer is on the way out. Mostly. Today's high is still 94 degrees but it was only 74 when I headed out for a walk/run. I ran 2.25 miles of the 4 miles and gotta say it felt pretty good. With milder temperatures I should be able to run more frequently and build up the mileage. I'd like to get back to the days of doing six-milers on a regular basis and getting back to the point where I can run a half marathon. It's been awhile but that's my plan over the coming months.

Is This It?

Is this the last time this year I'll be out for a walk where the temperature is over 100 degrees? Could be. Today was 105, tomorrow is supposed to be 107. I'm not walking tomorrow. Then Saturday's high is 99 but I'll be out in the morning before it reaches that point, and after that it trends to the low 90s before plummeting to a high of 78 on Tuesday with rain in the forecast. I went for a 3-mile walk today and it honestly felt like a blast furnace. Maybe it was just the thought this might be the end of the high heat. Whatever the case, I'll start enjoying some cooler walks and runs. At least until next year.

More Summer

Today we made it back over 100 degrees, with a lovely reading of 101 when I went out for a walk after work. Supposedly, this week is it for the high temps. As I've started before, we'll see. I enjoyed a nice 3-mile walk, listening to a podcast for a change. Nothing remarkable about today and the walk. Sometimes you're just in the groove and it all goes according to plan.

Another Delay

Yesterday I smoked a brisket and some other fine meats, meaning I didn't get out until today. Which was a little sad, since the temperature was 68 degrees yesterday morning.

Today wasn't bad, though. We clocked in at 80 degrees when I headed out, and I kept it to 3 miles since I ran half of it. Once again, it was nice to get in a little bit of running in half-mile increments. I also mowed the lawn and cleaned off the patio. Now it's rest time.

Lunch Walking Again

The temperature is actually below 100 degrees in Texas and that called for a midday walk. Still thinking about running and now that my new shoes have 10 miles on them I think it's almost time. Today I walked the usual 3 miles and did so at a pretty fast pace: just over 16 minutes/mile. I know, if I was speedwalking that wouldn't be very impressive, but normally when I walk the first mile is well over 17 minutes/mile. At least it was a nice day and as always it felt good to get out.

Delayed Walk

Yesterday I had a work activity in the afternoon and a concert in the evening, leaving no time to walk. I took the rare Wednesday walk instead. What a difference 10 degrees makes. The temperature was only 96 degrees and for a portion of the return journey the sun hid behind a cloud. I went 3 miles as usual and felt less worse than normal when I got home. The forecast has us hovering around 100 degrees over the next ten days but maybe the season of 106+ degrees is over. We'll see.

Saturday Outing

Once again I walked the 4-mile route where I kept to the shade for a good portion in the middle part. I thought about running since the temperature this morning was in the 80s, but I was breaking in a new pair of shoes and decided not to. It looks like we're in for temps lower than 100 in the coming week, so maybe I can start mixing in some running again. We'll see since I don't actually trust the forecasts.

Earlier Weekday Walk

I walked earlier than normal today since I have plans tonight and didn't want to rush around to get in some exercise. The added benefit included getting out before the temperature went over a hundred degrees. Fortunately, I have a gap in my calendar today between meetings so I went out for a 3-miler. I considered running but even the temperature was only 94 degrees the humidity was pretty high. I decided the best course was to walk. So I did.

Weird items by the side of the road observation: a pair of crutches in the grass along Lake Forest and a baby bottle in the drainage area right inside Creekwood. I wondered if the crutches had been cast aside because someone was miraculously healed, but the reality is probably that one of the McKinney Boyd students threw them aside on the way to school. The baby bottle? Not a clue.

Still Sweating

Today's high was only 102 degrees. "Only." The long-range forecast looks like we get down to the upper 90s for highs next week and then back to the century mark for Labor Day weekend. Like they know.

The breeze today felt good even thought it was hot. I walked 3 miles and when I walked up my street the neighbor next door was putting out his trash bins and asked me how my run was. I laughed. I ain't running in this. I'll continue this pattern and trying to keep up at least a minimum level of fitness until I can run again.

Saturday Morning Walk

The weather app I use cracks me up sometimes. The message this morning was that today is forecast to be cooler than yesterday. Ha ha. Yesterday was 109 degrees, today's high will be 107. WAY cooler.

This morning I walked 3.5 miles. I could have and probably should have gone the extra half-mile, but I wanted to get home for some coffee. Seems lazy of me, doesn't it? Right now I'm on my last cup and at the moment it seems like I made a good choice.

Midday Shade

I had a break between calls after lunch plus a late call on the calendar, so I took the opportunity for a midday walk. I wondered how it would go with the noonday sun, but it was actually okay. The shade under the trees was actually better in some areas. I went out while the temp was in the upper 90s, as opposed to 106 degrees now when I would've had to go out. I walked 3 miles and was happy to see minimal work emails had arrived in my absence. Maybe I should do this more often.

Break in the Heat

For the first time this month we didn't get to 100 degrees today. It topped out at 93 degrees and you could feel the difference. A temperature almost 15 degrees lower than the usual is noticeable. I walked 3 miles total and ran a mile of it in two half-mile increments. It took a little to get back into the rhythm and not feel like I was dying. The breeze helped. I know this won't last but it was nice to get in a little running.

Getting it Done

I went out around 8:30 this morning and got in my 4-mile walk. I considered running part of it since there was a nice breeze and temperature was in the mid-80s, but decided against it. I saw a few people out cycling but not much in the way of other walkers or runners, just a couple. The high today is supposed to be 106 so I'm glad I got it done early and mowed the lawn before the heat sets in this afternoon.

Dog Days

Up to 105 degrees today with heat index of 116. We could sure use some rain. I went my usual 3 miles today, encountering a work crew blocking the sidewalk at one point. Looked like they were stubbing in a fire hydrant, which involved a Bobcat to move some of the earth around. They were gone when I made the return journey. Time to relax in the a/c with a nice cold beverage.

100?

The answer to the question of whether or not it made it 100 degrees today is unclear. On my watch it says 101, but if I look at my phone, which the watch is linked to, the weather app there says 98. On the other weather app on my phone it says 96, but the website on my computer for the same provider says 102. What am I supposed to believe?

Regardless of the temp, we experienced some cloudiness for the first time in a while. That's probably what kept the digits around 100 instead of the 105 in the forecast for tomorrow. And the next day. And 106 the three days after that. Followed by 108, 107, and 107. It's going to be a great week.

In the meantime, I walked my 3 miles today. I'll do my best to keep it going.

See Randy Walk

Maybe I should change the name of this blog to See Randy Walk since that's what I've mainly been doing lately. Today I walked 4 miles and then came home and mowed the lawn. I already have almost 10,000 steps in and it's barely 11 a.m. Pretty normal for a Saturday, I guess. I walked a little different route today to capture more shade in the morning hours and that worked well. Now it's time to relax a little before heading out for a concert tonight, during which I'll be standing the whole time. I think a nap is in order this afternoon.

The Fun Continues

Got up to 105 degrees here today but plummeted to 104 by the time I finished work and got out for a walk. I did the usual 3-mile out and back routine. I was thinking about how getting used to the heat takes a little time. When you start off when the norm is 80 degrees and stick with it as things warm up over weeks and months, hitting the century mark isn't really as big a deal. Although walking for an hour is a lot different than working an eight-hour day on a roof or doing lawncare. Hydration plays a lot bigger role in those cases.

Welcome to August in Texas

Has it cooled down any? Of course not! First day of August and today's high was 104 degrees. The heat index reached 111. When I look at the extended forecast we're supposed to be above 100 through Sunday, although I'll believe that it'll cool down when it actually happens. I went on my 3-mile walk this afternoon and actually saw a guy running. I thought I was crazy...

Pre-Heat Walk

This morning it was 84 degrees when I headed out for a walk. I considered running part of it, but with the humidity as it was I decided walking 4 miles was better than trying to run, too. So, I walked all of it. Seems like that was a good choice since I also needed to mow the lawn. Eleven o'clock in the morning now and I've done my exercise and chores. Guess I'll chill out the rest of the day.

Walk On

Another 100-degree day, another 3-mile walk. It was incredibly similar to Tuesday's outing with a breeze out of the southeast. I must be getting more used to the heat since I didn't really start dripping sweat until I climbed the big hill in the last half-mile. I guess there's something to this acclimatization thing. Actually, I don't know if that's the right word but I'm too lazy too look it up.

Back to Normal

Let's just say the lower temperature from Saturday was very short-lived. Today it's back to normal, with air temp of 102 and heat index of 107. Still not as bad as when we were into the middle 110s but the foreseeable forecast has us at or over 100 for the next week+. I walked 3 miles today and it wasn't bad with a breeze from the east. I mean, it was a hot breeze, but still better than nothing.

Running!

What a nice surprise. When I woke up this morning it was 74 degrees outside. Can't remember the last time it was this cool. Anyway, I decided to get out as quick as possible, before even having coffee or breakfast. The humidity was also pretty darn low, so it actually felt like 74. And wonder of wonders, I even ran! I went 4 miles total and ran 2.25 of it in intervals. I was wondering when I'd be able to run again, thinking it might be September before the chance arrives, but instead I enjoyed this rare summertime opportunity.

Hottie

Today was another hottie, but not the good kind. Temperature was 102 with heat index of 111, a little bit higher than yesterday. It'll be nice when I can get back to running again. Instead, it was another 3-mile walk. Can't complain too much, though, since I wasn't sure I'd get one in today with a work meeting schedule 'til five o'clock. Fortunately, it ended early and I headed right out the door.

Make-up Day

I missed yesterday due to other obligations and decided I should make it up today. Last night the weather app said "Tomorrow's temperature is forecast to be COOLER than today." Which was hilarious, because yesterday's high was 106 degrees and today's 103. Yeah, waaaaaay cooler. Anyway, today at walk time it was 103 degrees with a heat index of 109, which means the humidity is down a little. Lots of sun, obviously, but a good walk nonetheless. I really needed after work today.

A Good Long Walk

This morning we spent time giving out homemade cookies to the local fire department crews, part of a service day at church. Once we made it home I went for a 4-mile walk. I suppose I could've run a little, but it was a bit humid and the sun was out in full force. The temperature was only 92 degrees but heat index was 105. Still plenty of moisture in the air. Now I'm off to mow the lawn.

Texas Never Disappoints

Today the temperature got up to 102 degrees with heat index of 115. I can't say I'm disappointed in this Texas summer. I walked 3 miles and sweated like the proverbial pig. A good breeze out of the southwest helped a little, although there were times when it felt more like someone opened the oven door. At least there's shade in the middle mile. I usually take off my hat during that stretch to let some of my body heat escape. And, you know, to let the wind blow through my hair.

Humid Like a River

Rain the past couple of days, followed by abundant sunlight, equals a very humid day. I didn't even think about running today, choosing to walk 3 miles and sweat profusely. My plan worked. I think we're heading back toward a streak of hot weather, this time with less rain. Still, here we are almost mid-July and it hasn't been off the charts bad so far. I'll still take this over ice and snow any time.

July Reprieve

This morning it was only about 84 degrees, a nice temperature for July in Texas. Plus a breeze from the south. I went a total of 4 miles. That included a mile run in the middle bracketed by walking and two half-mile runs. I thought about going an extra mile but plan on walking at some point today with The Wife. The high today is in the low 90s, another plus. I thought we might get a little rain but it ended up sprinkling just a little with nothing to show for the cloudiness. Oh well, it's a nice day to sit on the back patio and relax.

Training Walk

My calendar has late meetings on it today, and the only time I could get out was during a training session. I only had to listen instead of running it, and that worked out fine. I walked 3 miles and carried my phone in a waist pack, or whatever it's called. In case you're wondering, the session was fine. The walk was good and I considered running, but wow, it was humid. I sweat plenty just by walking. Now back to the meetings.

I Tried

Today is not as hot as it's been lately, with the temperature around 90 degrees when I went out for an Independence Day excursion. I tried to run a little, testing the waters as it were, and quickly decided it was a walking day. We had a storm blast through yesterday evening and it left the area under a nice blanket of humidity. The creek was full when I passed over, which is nice to see at this time of year. I ended up going 3 miles, and that was plenty. After my brief running trial, which lasted about a third of a mile, I felt the fingers of calf cramps and knew the humidity was too much. But it was a nice walk overall.

Not So Hot

Today is much cooler than it's been the past few weeks. It was only about 86 degrees with a heat index of 93 plus cloud cover. I'm smoking a brisket today and didn't want to be gone too long, so I planned on going 3 miles and ended up at 2.82 because of people walking along the path around where I would normally turn. And here's the bigger deal: I actually ran part of the route today. About 1.3 total, with a pickup at the end. Not bad for a Saturday in July in Texas.

109 on a 100 Base

Today's temp got up to 100 degrees with a heat index of 109. Par for the course these days. I went on another 3-mile walk that felt much like the one a couple of days ago. I have to say the only other people I saw out were the guys doing lawn care work. 50 minutes or so for a walk feels pretty draining; I can't imagine doing it all day. God bless those guys.

Heat Index

This is about as high as the heat index has risen, at least while I've been paying attention. It was 102 degrees with heat index of 116 when I left the house for today's walk. Strangely enough, it wasn't really that bad. A breeze from the southeast helped, as well as shade at various points along the route. I walked 3 miles and then came home and mowed the lawn. Yeah, I'm kind of stupid that way.

Water in the Creek

There's water in the creek again after a surprise thunderstorm late yesterday afternoon. I thought the storm was going to stay north of us but we caught the southwestern edge and got hammered for a good 45 minutes or so. We needed it. Of course, that made this morning humid but that's fine by me. I walked 3 miles. I'd rate it as a good walk since I was in no hurry and had no place to be. Lots of stray thoughts throughout the walk, which is probably better to do at noon than in the middle of the night.

Walk and Mow

Yesterday the temperature plummeted to the low 90s and the humidity actually kept the heat index below 100. I still walked instead of running and went 2.5 miles. When I got home the lawn needed a trim, so I got in a little more walking. We're headed to the century mark over the next week, which means I'll likely continue the walking with little to no running. 

See Randy Walk

Maybe I should rename this website. When it's 97 degrees with heat index of 115 outside, there's not gonna be much running going on. I needed to get outside, though, and do something. I walked 3 miles and generated a nice bucket of sweat. It wasn't that bad. Really. I knew I would walk the whole way and no pressure to run. Summer is here, although it officially starts tomorrow according to the calendar. Either way, it's arrived in Texas already.

Running While Smoking

Today I put a pork shoulder on the smoker, and figured even though that requires attention I still needed to get out for some exercise. I went 3 miles, half of it running. Still very humid around here, and I heard that Wednesday and Thursday were some of the most humid (humidest?) days on record in the Dallas area. I believe it. At least I got in my exercise for today as well as mowing the lawn. Now it's time to enjoy the long weekend.

Welcome Back, Summer

Yesterday we hit 94 degrees, a nice jump up in temperature. A nice breeze out of the southeast helped, at least when running against it. I went 4 miles total and ran half of it in half-mile blocks. All the walking in between helped me make it the whole way and also seemed to keep my heart rate from getting too high. Plus the areas of shade along the route were also most welcome. I've been wearing a hat due to some spots on my forehead (more like a six- or seven-head) that had to be removed last year, and the hat is supposed to keep more from developing in the harsh Texas sunlight. At least in the areas of shade I was able to take off my hat and that helped cool me down in those instances.

Misty June Day

Definitely not a normal June day. It was cool, only getting up to about 80, and cloudy all day. It finally rained about the time I was heading out, although it was more of a mist than actual rain. Maybe a little more than mist. Whatever the case, it wasn't too bad. It picked up a little bit around the mile mark, so I ended up going only 2.5 miles. The good news is that I ran 1.6 of that with a pickup at the end. I got in some sweat regardless of the weather. The forecast looks like after tomorrow we start getting into real summer weather. This might be the coolest run I have for a while.

Disassociated 5k

Another day, another 5k. That's 3.1 miles out of the 5-mile outing. It was another nice Saturday morning with clouds on the horizon but nothing overhead. Fortunately, there was a very nice breeze which kept me cool. The temperature was in the high 80s and it looks to get hotter over the next week. I appreciate the chance to acclimate to the upcoming warmth. Or hotness. Whatever you want to call it, it's summer in Texas.

1 of 3, 2 of 4

The 1 of 3 in the title refers to the baseball games I attended the previous three nights. The good guys (Cardinals) were in town to play the bad guys (Rangers). The good guys won only 1 of the 3 games, which was actually better than I expected since the bad guys are playing lights out so far this year and the good guys...aren't. Had fun anyway, although it meant missing my Tuesday outing.

Today I ran 2 of 4 miles, the latter half of the title above. The temperature is still hovering in the upper 80s with a nice touch of humidity. I ran four half-mile intervals with a pickup the last quarter-mile or so. It was good to get out and sweat again. This time the heart rate seemed reasonable although I wasn't watching it that closely 'til the end.

Someone asked me the other day if I still run and if I want to do any more marathons. Yes, I still run, I replied, and I'd like to run more halfs and fulls. The problem for me is the time commitment, which first of all means getting into good enough shape to be able to start a real training program. Something to consider.

Another 5k

In today's 5-mile outing I ran 3.1 miles in intervals. Interestingly, I cut short the next-to-last interval because my heart rate seemed too high. It got up to 165, and as I've mentioned before, that's above the max heart rate if you use the normal calculation. At the very least it was in the 90%+ range. It got up to the same rate toward the end of my final half-mile interval, but I stuck it out so I could get to the 5k mark in running. I didn't feel horrible during any of it but I did feel like I was laboring a little more than usual. Temperature was about 80 degrees but humidity was way up. Or maybe it was tougher because I didn't find a hundred-dollar bill this time. 

Feeling Like a Hundred Bucks

I actually found a hundred-dollar bill on my run today. Yes, I searched around quite extensively to see if someone was looking for it, but I saw not a soul. Like nobody was out today running or cycling. Yes, I kept it. I've found a twenty and once a fiver on previous runs, but this one takes the cake.

What's interesting is that if I'd given in to a shorter run like my mind kept telling me, I wouldn't have found it. The money was almost at the turnaround point for two miles out and then two back. In fact, I didn't see it when I passed it the first time. It was on the return. I considered turning around at 1.5 miles, and then had almost convinced myself to turn at 1.75 and do a 3.5 mile run, which I rarely do. Instead, I thought another quarter mile out wasn't that far.

I know, I'm making too big a deal of it. Especially since it's going in the offering plate at church to help the food pantry or the local homeless ministry. Hey, it wasn't mine to begin with and it's a chance to pass it along to someone who does.

Running? Yeah, 4 miles total with 2.5 in intervals. The temperature was in the mid to high 80s but a breeze out of the southeast kept things reasonable. Still recovering from the wedding weekend and sweating for an hour or so felt good.

Revelry

I certainly intended to get out for some exercise while we had a bunch of family in town for a big wedding, but somehow it just never happened. After all the revelry and some people leaving this morning, I desperately needed a walk/run. A big thunderstorm rolled through yesterday about dinner time, leaving us to bask in the humidity today. I went 3 miles and ran only one out of that, but today was more about just moving than any serious effort. Still have stuff going on next weekend and early next week, but let's see if I can make the exercise happen.

Just a Walk

Due to scheduling this week, I decided today was the day to get out for some exercise. My knees felt...puffy? Not sure of the right word, but maybe it was because of the running two days ago. Or because I'm old. Or maybe both.

So, I walked. I walked 3 miles. It was a nice, semi-brisk walk. Beyond giving my knees a chance to recover, I think it was also good to be out in warmer weather without sweating up too much of a storm. It's the part of the year where I need to acclimate again to the heat and I'm well on my way. If I can run tomorrow, I will, but if not then at least I'm not going too long without exercise.

More Run than Walk

Today has to be the longest continuous run I've done in I-don't-know-how-long. I mean, I could go back and look at previous posts but that would take effort. Instead, I'll just say I ran 3.7 miles out of 5 total, with a run in the middle of 3.2 miles. Today was great here in Texas for a run like that. A little humid but nice breeze out of the north to make it palatable, and temperature only 70 degrees. In fact, when I first woke up it was almost too cool to sit on the patio and drink coffee. After a few errands it was time to run, and so I did. It feels nice to have that accomplishment in the bag and primes me nicely for the upcoming hot weather.

Failed Flying

Tuesday I was supposed to travel to Toronto for work. Short story: I got the whole experience of boarding and deboarding without ever leaving the airport. Delays kept accumulating so I finally ended up canceling the trip. The downside was I was worn out from the experience plus all the work I did when I got home so I skipped running that day.

Today was different, with sunshine, a nice southerly breeze, temperature in the mid-80s, and no aborted plane flights. It was humid, as usual, so I went 4 miles and ran 2.25 of that in four intervals. Not bad and keeps me feeling good about continuing to get back and stay in shape.

5k Out of 5 Miles

All that rain we were supposed to get over the last three days? Not a drop. Definitely par for the course.

Today was humid, though, with temperature in the low 80s. I went 5 miles total and ran 3.1 of that, or 5k. I did intervals of .5, .75, .67, .75, and .5. Actually, I guess that adds up to 3.17, a little more than 5k. The running parts felt just fine, even though I felt my left hip was a little sore for some reason when I started. I tried to concentrate on propelling myself with both legs equally, making sure I wasn't favoring one over the other. A little bit of extra focus in that area seemed to help. Now it's time to mow the lawn.

Some Humidity in the Area

We had a little rain yesterday. Not as much as forecast, but enough to put some water in the creek and up the humidity some. It was noticeable today and I took a walk at the halfway point of my 4-mile run, which means my total running distance was 1.8 miles with the rest walking. I think it was a wise choice and I made up for the extra walk by adding some speed to the last tenth of a mile or so. Remember, speed is relative and I ain't as fast as I used to be. Not that I was ever that fast, but still.

Two for the Show

Ran two of the 4 miles today, in the usual interval pattern. I have to say I feel pretty good about it since the temperature was 84 degrees and a little humid, which I'm still getting used to. At least there was a nice breeze to cool me down in certain parts, and of course, some shade. We have intermittent rain in the forecast starting tomorrow through Monday, but if the weathermen keep up their usual success rate we won't get much of anything. Which means I'll be able to run as scheduled.

Back from the Great White North

Spent the last week in Minnesota, where it was still not spring. I took running clothes, but apparently not enough cold/cool-weather gear. The temperature was mostly in the 50s with nighttime lows in the 30s, and plenty of wind to refrigerate things even more. Needless to say, running did not occur.

Yesterday I changed brakes on Daughter #2's car, a process that took more than twice as long because some idiot engineer decided the long screws securing the bracket needed Allen wrench heads instead of hex bolts. And recessed them inside a short collar. What a crapfest. Plus, the temperature skyrocketed to the low 90s, quite the change after the week in colder climes. I say all this to say I got plenty of activity yesterday, which impacted my outing today.

The older I get, the more those types of activities leave me sore. Today I kept the outing to 3 miles to stretch out after ten days or so of no exercise followed by the brake-changing debacle. Also it was the first time running with higher temperatures (in the 80s) so easing back in seemed appropriate. I did run half of that in half-mile increments and the wind was a nice relief. I plan on walking the next few days to continue stretching out the sore muscles.