Back Home

I had a great run running back in Eastport on Route 190 past Split Rock. On my return trip I ran south end before returning to the Motel East. I got in 10.98 mile/ it was high tide with many waterfowl flying about. This is perhaps the most scenic place in the world to run. God Bless!

I Haven't Seen You Since Summer

I ran the figure 8 plus 3 x Apple Court for 9 miles. I haven't done this route since August I wanted a change of pace and this route supplied it. Little traffic and beautiful scenery. My next run may be in Maine when I visit my parents with my daughters. A decent week considering the fact that I didn't really feel like being out there any of the workouts except for today. God is so good! A great year of training. God Bless!!

Back on Longwood

I did 9 miles today. Had the feel of winter. Nice workout.

Christmas Run

It had snowed the night before-- just a dusting. I got up at 5:50 am,with no one stirring. All of my kids except for Ericka were elsewhere so things were a bit quieter and subdued. I did 8 x .3 mile hill repeats with equal recovery. I did well on these quiet Christmas streets. All totaled 6.5 miles. Merry Christmas--Jesus is the reason for the season!

Back to the Hills--again!

I just am not looking forward to the longer runs right now! I can get up for .3 mile efforts right now.So another total of 6.5miles with 8 x .3 mile hill repeats. So my grind Arlem out walking-- told me he has even tired-- know the feeling. Also, met another runner named Chuch--and he's on my street. Church tonight! Yay!!! God Bless!

Back at It

I did the Randall Loop this morning,running back at the usual pace after a week of repeats. It was a mild 55 and light rain. I am able to get more sleep with it being vacation time. I had a busy weekend of working to get our new church building ready for the first service on Christmas Eve. I'm excited to see what God is going to do. God Bless!

Saturday Make-Up

I got up and out early to make up for a missed Thursday Run. I knew the day would be a busy one, but I was pleased to get 8 x .3 mile hill repeats again. Total of 6.5 miles! God Bless-- got this entry in on Sunday!

The Christmas Shuffle

 I actually heard my alarm this morning--although I seriously considered staying in bed. Well,habit got the best of me and I meandered downstairs to get my running stuff on. The temp was a rosy 30 degrees. I did my hill repeat workout again for a total of 6.5 miles,but the real work is the 8 x .3 mile repeats.  The thing I like about this workout right now is the time that it saves.
  Today is the last day of school before Christmas break. I am kind of tired,but a pleasant type of fatigue.Looking forward to a break and seeing my daughters. Most of all,I am thankful to God for sending Jesus--the true meaning of Christmas!

I Must Have Been Tired

I woke up an hour and fifteen minutes past my alarm. I guess it's just my body telling me that I need a break--it did make me kind of angry though. Looking at past blogs this seems to be something that happens a lot this time of year before Christmas Break. I may run just four days this week--I'll just have to see how much energy I have. Life is just busy now and tiring--oh well,blessed anyway and always.

Reminiscent of Eastport

 Today the roads were glazed over with snow and ice.  The ice had enough rough spots that I could get traction on my 8 x .3 mile hill repeats--with warm-up and cool-down 6.5 miles. It seemed back in Eastport that snow and bad weather meant speed work of some sort. I was reading old blogs on sonriserunning.blogspot.com yesterday and relived some of the old days for a few moments. I am reminded that no matter how good or bad things were in my life, that my workouts have been a constant--for that,I have been truly blessed.
    I have been fortunate to have lived in places that have been conducive with good training.  The streets this morning were very quiet,with the sandtruck coming by mid-run to provide decent traction. Speed isn't the focus,but rather just trying to run faster than normal and the hill provides the resistance. I'm glad that I made the switch to this workout for the week. My friend Andy gave me many good ideas in workouts over the years and I have borrowed most of these workouts.
    I have been so busy that really I have not had much time for reflection.  I will say that no matter how tough times have been, the Christmas season has always been a blessed time of year for me. I'm not sure where this road of life will take me,but I know that my Lord is always there with me providing for me aqll the grace and mercy that I need. God Bless!

Head to the Hills

 I did a total of 6.5 miles of 8 times .3 mile hill repeats. I plan on using this workout for the week. This workout gets the work in quicker allowing me to run fewer miles--and most importantly,lets me sleep in . I sometimes get into a mindset that works for me at aa certain time--hill repeats is the mindset this grueling week at work. Being an ex-middle distance runner means my mentality is geared to intervals. God Bless!

A Change of Venue

Today I decided to change things up with my energy draining and the days getting longer. I caught a mild cold in addition. My plan is to cut the volume this week--so I am doing 8 x .3 mile repeats with equal recovery. The warm-up and ,cool down and intervals all mount up to 6.5 miles. Felt decent today with a bit of soreness. The best part is that I never am more than 8 tenths of a mile from home. It was a beautiful,cool and windy late fall workout. Have a blessed day!

Slowly going down the Tubes

My energy is slowly melting away as the school year marches on to Christmas.  I think I will cut back to three easier days next week doing the figure 8 loop. This loop involves shorter running intervals and more walking. Plus it's very quiet on those streets.  Coming down with right now a mild cold. Glad that I have two off running days coming up. Has definitely been a colder December this year so far. The little snow that we got on Monday and Tuesday has stayed--at least on our part of the island. I did 8.46 yesterday and 8.41 today.  It's funny how dodging traffic can add distance to a run since both days were run on the same route. I've seen lots of deer lately.  Have a blessed day all!

Cold but Better

 8.94 miles on the Randall Loop this morning. Winter is here,unofficially anyway. I felt better with a better night's sleep. Nice relaxing evening with no afterschool. The streets were quiet and the scenery beautiful. Have a blessed day!

Not Feeling It

Since Thanksgiving vacation I have been a bundle of fatigue.  I mean my workouts are going well,I'm just feeling a bit behind in everything else.  I'm too stubborn to slack on my workouts hanging in there until Christmas vacation when I can sleep in a bit and not be so rushed. I did the Longwood Loop again for 9.01 miles. I ran four minutes faster today even though I knew for sure that I was more tired. The secret was that from just past mile five to just past mile 2 there was a runner who began his workout and ran approximately 2 miles of the route until he was picked up by a friend in the car. I had the edge on him the whole way,even though I wasn't even sure if he was still there,but I sensed that he was there and kept up a decent pace. At the end of his run ,all of a sudden I was aware that he was there and he pulled up and then passed me. I stayed just off his shoulder until he picked up the pace and pulled ahead by just under 10 yards with what I realized then was his finishing kick. I shoulk his hand and then kept running. If it weren't for him I would not have run nearly as well. I was pleased at the end to see that I had run a decent time for me. I saw several deer running around as well as a dead opossum.  Have a blessed day!

The Good Feeling of Winter

 I woke up this morning expecting miserable winter weather--which is a bit exciting to me being from Maine and having run in all sorts of winter weather including days of sub-zero weather.  It was 30 degrees with freezing rain.  I was stiff and not smooth this morning,but the joy of running with  snow on the ground made up for this lack of zip in my legs.  The Longwood loop was quiet this morning with a breeze out of the east bringing in a light film of frozen drizzle.   I'm just going to try to get the work in and not worry too much about the speed these next couple of weeks before and during vacation. Eastern Long Island is beautiful and provides enough winter weather and wildlife to suit me.My mind does reminisce almost every day of all my beautiful runs back in Eastport,Maine. Did 9.0 miles on the nose this morning. Have a blessed day!

Damp,Foggy, and Mild

It was 54 degrees this drizzly Friday morning!  I was feeling a bit tired(the theme of this week)and stiff this morning. I did my standard 2 times Middle Country and back plus the figure 8 loop for 8.47 miles. The pizza I ate last night was starting to get to my stomach a bit--lactose intolerance stinks sometimes.  Well,overall I am pleased at how this week shaped up--5 decent workouts and not really feeling it.  Looking forward to a couple of planned rest days before Lord willing I'm back at it next week.  I am liking the Runtastic app on my phone.  Have a blessed day!

Spring in Fall

 Today's temperature was a mild 52 degrees with some fog and drizzle. This has been a strange week of feeling tired,yet I've had some decent workouts.  Today I did the Randall loop which today was 8.95 miles. I got out the door a little over 5 minutes later than usual --noticed that this five minutes meant more cars out and around--slightly annoying.  Looking forward to sleeping in on Saturday. Tomorrow I will attempt to do my old standby Ridge,Raynor, and Woodlot plus--always subject to change.  Being apart from my three youngest daughters never gets any easier,but I am blessed to call them mine. Have a blessed day! 

Nice Run on Longwood

I didn't necessarily feel the strongest this morning, but I did run a decent time and felt good in spite of a lack of butt-kicking energy. I did get a decent nights sleep last night which I'm sure was helpful--as well as not teaching after-school. I went to Jace's winter concert held in the fall of course. Jace did a great job of course. I love the early morning,having the streets all to myself--enjoying this beautiful part of Long Island. In this Christmas season I will be thankful for all the blessings that the Lord has brought into my life. Each Christmas has been different from the other,but God's blessings and the love of my family have been the constants. Nice 9.02 miles at 26 degrees!

The Great Figure 8!

 I did 8.42 miles this morning on the Ridge,Raynor,Woodlot plus two times Rt. 25 and back. This is route that I run when I need peace and quiet. I saw a few deer darting around this morning. It's so dark again--at least we have street lights. Blessed run even though I was tired.

Back Home

Back in Ridge again running my familiar routes. It's nice to be home, but at the same time there is an emptiness without my three youngest daughters. I had a great three plus days with them, but then there is that sadness that occurs when we part ways. Today's run was totally in the dark but done with the aid of the street lamps that don't exist at my parent's house. Ran a nice 8.93 miles on Randall Road. Have a blessed day!

Last Day In Maine

Nice 8.02 miles in Hope,Maine at 12 degrees..  Blessed to be with my family minus my daughter Ericka.  Back home tomorrow!

Tues-Thurs-Friday

I did 8.97 on Tuesday in Ridge,and 7.91 and 8.0 here in Hope. Just beautiful weather since Wednesday bad weather. Enjoying being with my parent's house and running in the beautiful hills of Hope. The elevation change is over 4 times more than back on Long Island. Looking at one more day of training here in Maine. If not ,that's ok too. God Bless!

Back at It

After a couple of extra days off last week I was back at it again on a old morning. I did the Randall loop on 2.5 hours of sleep. I knew that I could take it easy with a week off from work for vacation. I just had to watch the end of the Patriots game. The distance for the day was 9 miles. Glad to have the run done for the day. I hope Maine isn't too cold on Thursday and Friday! Oh well! God Bless!

Planned Rest

  Yesterday, I did not feel quite right during my workout.  After the workout my stomach was feeling achy.  I decided that I had mistaken normal fatigue when actually I had some sort of a virus.  This morning I set my alarm for my usual 3:55 am-- I got up,put a log on the fire and decided that I would be better served with a little extra sleep and a day off.  I have had a good stretch of training and a couple of extra days off seemed to be the ticket to the road back to enjoying my workouts--especially with next week being a vacation week. I am so blessed!! Praise to Jesus!

Wenesday/Thursday

 I did 8.89 on Wednesday and 8.93 this morning. It's interesting how taking a wider turn or pulling over to avoid a car add distance to a route as my rout has been the same all week.  Yesterday I was just stiff while this morning I was tired. I ran slightly faster this morning although the time was similar. This is a case where the work week and hustle and bustle of week are wearing me down. This morning my stomach was playing up just enough to annoy me. Well,even with the day off I am feeling worn--so I may stick to just four days of training this week--we'll see. No afterschool tonight-yay! It was 19 degrees this morning--a cold November day for Long Island. Have a blessed day!

The Sleepless Patriot Fan

I decided to watch the Patriots play last night. I just could not sleep after that heartbreaking loss.  So I decided not to get up at my usual time of 4 am and slept in. Oh well--it was a beautiful morning with a nice strong breeze and nice bright sunlight. Here I am with a nice long day ahead of me. Looking forward to Maine next week. God Bless!

Wet

I got up knowing that the forecast was a wet one--but oh well,I would at least attempt to get the workout in. The goal is to run well this week without tapping into my energy reserve as much as last week. I started out nice and dry,but come mile four--the skies opened up. I decided that when I passed my street I would cut the workout short if the weather did not improve.  Fortunately,just as I hit route 25 the rain let up and I continued on the Randall loop. When I finished the 8.93 mile mark I was pleased to see that I had run one of my better times. Looking forward to a week off from school next week with a couple of run's in Hope--and of course--time with my three youngest daughters and my parents. Have a blessed day!

Great Finish

I did my standard loop plus my out and back 2 miler for 8.39 miles. I ran my best time,but this course involved more walking with harder runs interspersed in their. I used Runtastic each workout this week finding that my times were much faster. With this new type of training I am finding that my mileage is not far behind what it used to be thankfully--blessed! Looking forward to a couple of days off from running--and some extra needed sleep. Temp was 37 degrees under clear skies. Have a great weekend. Looking forward to visiting my parents in a little less than two weeks--will have my daughters.

Good Times

I ran my best time this morning on the Longwood loop combining my walking and running. Things just fell together even though today the workout didn't seem so effortless. It was just me,my iPhone and The Lord. I think I will dial things back tomorrow. Great week of training--God Bless!

Winter Finally Here

I hit the road feeling good with some good sleep n my system. I ran my best time for the Randall course using Runtastic. The deer were on the move to avoid he hunters. With a temp of 28 degrees and some snow on the ground , I'm reminded of what lies ahead. I felt strong ,but in control of the workout. Love this time of year. The wood heat sure does feel good! God Bless!

A Bit Off

My good old blog. I know a couple of people check it out--and I've had the blog since 2008. Dailymile has been like writing to myself. Oh well, my blog I don't count on comments -- get an occasional comment from my good friend Andy. That said, I was just tired after a busy day working at home on Vets day. My times were off, but I knew that I just didn't have it today. My body weight was down to 193 this morning which is good ground for me. Have a blessed day!

Checking Longwood

I decided to chech the Longwood loop with my Runtastic app on my iPhone.  I got out at around 4:50 am. I gained almost half a mile with the supposed 8.5 turning out to be 8.95 miles--NICE! The sod farmers were working and the turkeys were clucking this fine 45 degree morning. Nice to have a day off from school. God Bless!

Nice Start

 I got up and out on time. I didn't run my best time using runtastic but I did have a decent time. I got out to work in decent time-and made good time to work. The temp was 46 degrees with a comfortable breeze. The sun was starting to make her presence known as she started to peak out a bit towards the end. For the final run of the week,I was pleased. This year has been hectic with little time for self-reflection--but this has been a productive year! Nice 8.93 miles on the Randall Run!

A One Hour Mistake

You may think that getting up at 4 am is early--well,what about getting up at 3 am?  I set my watch alarm for 4 am,problem is that I forgot to set my watch back an hour. The result was that I got up at 3 am--but I did go back to bed to get my much needed sleep.  I have been tired so I once again cut back on my distance going 7.2 miles. Blessed to get the work in!

Slept In

Decided to sleep more and run less today! Did 7.2 miles. Have loved working out with temps in the 30's. Grateful to get the work in!

Nice8.95

I got up later as I had professional development.  Did a nice 8.95.   Felt  nice and stong. Have a blessed da!

Runtastic Start

 I enjoyed seeing some daylight at the end of my run this morning as opposed to the total darkness that I had been experiencing.  I did 2 x house to Rt 25 and back plus the Raynor,Ridge,Woodlot figure 8 loop for 8.42 miles. It has been interesting using the Runtastic app on my iPhone.  I find I go faster when I use the app during my run,plus it spits back some interesting data. This day is getting off to a good start. Have a blessed day!

Thursday/Friday

  I got in another good week of training. Yesterday, I put in 6.4 miles after watching the Red Sox win the World Series. This morning I did 8.94 miles in warm and windy conditions. Lagging a bit in the energy this morning,but know that I'm blessed. God Bless!

Tuesday/Wednesday Using Runtastic App

The last two days I have used the runtastic app on my iPhone. My 8.4 mile loop is actually 8.94 miles. I ran 5 minutes faster today than yesterday--not necessarily trying to beat the time. I figure that using this app keeps me kind of accountable to myself. I'm not trying to be super fast,but I don't want to slog along necessarily. Have a blessed day!

Liking the Randall Loop

After weeks of some variety I have settled into the Randall loop. My workouts just don't seem like work ,at least for now. Nice 8.4 on this beautiful loop! Blessed

Streetlights

  The constant theme is darkness these last few weeks!  I start my workout in darkness and I finish in the same darkness.  I did 8.4 miles on the Randall loop for whatever reason I am just rally liking this loop right now.  I felt ok,not bad. I haven't really had a lot of explosiveness in the legs this week. I think this is because of fatigue from this crazy pace of life called Long Island. Looking forward to the weekend! God Bless!

Wed/Thursday

 I did 8.4 on the Randall loop yesterday and 7.6 on the Longwood loop this morning. Blessed to get the workouts in with such a hectic crazy schedule.  Life is quite hectic right now--but I know I'm not alone. Have a blessed day!

Hooters

I have been welcomed on upper Raynor Road by a couple of owls hooting away. I've grown to kind of like the sound.  I did the Randall/Woodlot loop again, and plan to do it again tomorrow. I am enjoying the change of pace at this point. The 8.4 miles went along smoothly as I ran by the streetlights of Ridge. Blessed to get in another workout!

Randall Runner

  I decided to revisit a route that I have not run since 2010-- the Randall/Woodlot loop which is 8.4 with additional mileage added on to the 6.8 mile loop. There are three little ponds on this route to add to the beauty. I felt alright out there in the 39 degree temperature.I've varied things more this year with a very hectic work and family schedule. It's so quiet at 4:10 am--even here on Long Island! God Bless!

Finale

Thursday was the final workout of the week. Some nice workouts in,just felt kind of rushed. Today's workout I just felt tired--but I barreled through the whole distance not wanting to admit defeat. I varied the places where I usually run and walk. I have changed things up in my workouts this school year as a means to trick myself into getting the workout finished. I don't usually write these little adaptations in my log,but I know I have been mixing things up. Dailymile.com has been used daiy--but I like the blog. I know that only a few people actually check it out as opposed to dailymile.com--but, most of the feedback there while much appreciated is superficial. I have had this blog for six years now--so I hope that this will continue to be a constant among the many changes in my training and in my life. So today 7.9 miles--so blessed--miss Kimberly,Rebekah,and Kaitland!

Sunday-Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday

I have been without time and internet access for a bit--so here is a bit of a re-cap.  Sunday -- 10 miles in Eastport,  Monday -- 8.9 miles in Eastport   Tuesday--8.4 miles in Ridge  Wednesday -- 7.9 miles in Ridge.  I stayed two days at Harris Point in Eastport. My three youngest daughters stayed with me for the duration.  It was cold with temps in the thirties both days. Not a soul was out these mornings. It is always good to run in my old longtime home of Eastport. The roads are so so familiar. I didn't really have time to savor the workout with nostalgic thoughts ,but it is always great to run these quiet roads. I even ran the short trail at Shackfords Head to make up for lost distance due to power lines being down on the road. For greater detail you can look at dailymile.com at Eric C. P.. The runs in Ridge have gone well,but it seems as if I'm running on fumes. Did some strength work in Hope,so i am almost caught up on my strength training for the week. Have a blessed day!

Quick Week: 7.9 miles

Since I started on Sunday,I finished my workouts on Thursday! I like training on these days(at least for now). I ran the last 3 miles with my friend Arlem today. He had a lot to say as the time passed by quickly! Got back in plenty of time for my long day at work and Bible study! Looking forward to seeing my parents and my daughters in Maine. Still a Maine boy who happens to live in New York. My old running routes are calling my name! So blessed!

Clinch

 I decided not to stay up until the end of the Red Sox game last night,and was glad this morning that I didn't! Hey,they won and are in the American League Championship series which is all that matters. Would have been nice to see the sad Tampa fans after the game--oh well!  Nice 7.9 this morning at 54 degrees and clear. I did the standard loop.  Just blessed to get a good workout in.

Monday-8.4 Tuesday-8.4

I got out nice and early both of these morning. Monday was a muggy drizzly day and Tuesday was a cool clear run. I ran the entire distance on Sunday and Monday and today I did my usual mixture of sprinting,running,and walking. The plan is for a couple of 7.9 milers to close the week. Blessed to workout!

Sunday Run Day

I woke up early and just couldn't fall asleep. So I got out of bed and had a quick cup of coffee before heading out the door. I ran the whole way so to be back in time to get ready for church .  I did the Longwood loop with one Apple Court and one . 3 (total .6 ). Good to have the run in. God Bless!

Back to the Usual

I decided to do my standard 7.9 Ridge,Raynor,Woodlot,Apple Court loop this morning. I saw the Ridge runner doing his out and back on Ridge road. He runs well. The roads are so dark this time of year with the sun coming up later and later. I did see a rabbit several times on Raynor as I loop by there several times. I have felt more like sleeping than running,but am always glad that I chose to run after the fact. 

I have had so little time to reflect lately with the hectic pace of life down here on Long Island. I do feel God's hand on my life even in the hectic times and the times of tortuous time away from Kimberly,Rebekah,and Kimberly, My training has been consistent - that is a blessing. Right now I am looking forward to going to Maine next week. It seems I live for those times when we are all together. Even with the much needed shorter running week my wait is under 195 and all my strength work got done. Have a blessed day!

Wednesday and Thursday

I had a big surprise come into my life--it caused me to take some time off from training to reflect,recover,and seek the Lord. I ran 8.5 on Wednesday and 8.5 today. God is good--a Muslim friend I have asked me to pray for him. I know the Lord is doing a wonderful work. God Bless you my friends!

Friday is a Good Day

 I slept in a bit longer--I think I was a bit tired with having Bible Study last night(well worth the time). Since today was an interval day I was allowed the extra sleep. I did 8 x .3 miles with equal recovery--and with warm-up and cool down I the distance comes out to 7.1 miles. I am definitely feeling the hill repeats in the legs and glutes. I'm trying to incorporate some variety lately. Date night with my wife tonight. I'm noticing that on dailymile the more I mention God the fewer or no comments that are made. That's ok since God deserves all the honor and the praise! God Bless You!

I get by with a little help from Joe

This school year is kicking my butt. Feeling a bit tired. Goal,make it to my coffee and then make it to the street. Goal accomplished, The 7.9 on the ususal figure eight route went well. Nice and fluid, and good snap up the hill. Not quite as cool at 52 degrees. Sure do miss Kimberly,Rebekah,and Kaitland. Have a blessed day!

The Early Bird ....

I got up and out the door raring to go,although my first feeling was to go back to sleep. It was 48 and calm. The deer were once again lurking about. I did hit 13 mph on the radar gun. It is early ,but oh so beautiful in the early morning hours. I did another 8.5 on the Longwood loop. Thank You Lord!

I Love the Fall

I have felt fairly good the past couple of weeks on my workouts. I did the Longwood loop hitting 12 mph on the radar. Lots of deer on the move.  The time just flew by. Have a blessed day--8.5 miles!

Friday --Monday

  I missed a day of blogging although I did recount Fridays workout on dailymile.com. On Friday, I woke up late but did not want to forgo the workout. I decided and interval session was in order. I did 8 x .3 mile hill runs with equal recovery plus a warm-up and cool-down all totaling 7 miles. It felt good. The last two reps are always the most difficult. I was glad to get the workout in. This morning I did my usual 7.9 miler. I felt really solid and more optimistic than usual. I didn't sleep that great again,but I'm getting use to that being the norm on Sunday nights. The temp was perfect at 54 degrees with a steady autumn breeze blowing. I love this time of year,even with the increase of darkness. I'm blessed!

It's Darkest before the Dawn

Getting up has been a matter of discipline. Even with the early start time everything must go like clockwork to get me on my way to work. I hit 13 mph. again on the radar gun. My only friends on this run are the Lord and my shadow. When I hit Raynor Road at the end I'm greeted by the glimmering rays of the pre-dawn. God Bless--8.5 miles!

Running Out of Habit

 Getting up at 3:55 am is my new habit. Running by 4:20 is also my new habit--usually sooner. Nobody is out that early--except for Ed who works in the city walking his dog. I felt good in these cool fall-like conditions again--48 degrees and clear.  I am feeling strong despite the less than ideal sleep which I make up for on the weekends. Blessed to be able to workout. It's interesting that I have more page views on this blog as opposed to sonriserunning.blogspot.com which I had for a few years. A long day still ahead of me,but I feel His presence with me. 7.9 miles in the books

The Longwood Way

The still of the autumn-like morning greeted me with a steady breeze and 50 degree temperatures. Not much stirring early in the morning. I felt fairly strong as I plodded along. I felt really decent on the hill portion of the workout. Still,even with a good workout I felt less than contented knowing that my wife hated these early workouts. I might have to have an evening cup of coffee to stay up a bit later than my usual 10 oclock bedtime. Blessed to get the workout in and the health to continue,have a blessed day all. Oh yeah,8.5 miles.

Another Sleepless Sunday Night

The past few Sunday nights I have had problems going to sleep. I think a lot of it has to do with the long grind of my school day--or the anticipation of another tough week. I felt ok as far as the workout went. I felt particularly strong on the hill sprints. When I woke up I cntemplated going back to bed,but I decided I did not want to start the week in a whole. Have a blessed day--I ran 7.9 miles btw.

Rainy Friday

It was humid and rainy out this morning. I was a bit short on sleep as I watched the Patriots game last night,but I felt ok besides that on the Longwood loop. I only hit 12 on the radar even though It felt like 13 mph. I'm enjoying this 8.5 mile route right now. Have a blessed day!

7.9 and 8.5 miles

Yesterday I did 7.9 miles. It was very warm and humid! I had a challenge from another runner with 2 to go but,I kicked it in and ran away from him. Today was less eventful as I ran with the stars overhead on the Longwood Loop. I think I hit 13 mph but, I'm not sure as a car came up behind me so his speed and not mine showed. Have a blessed day!

Wet on Longwood

I did 8.5 on the Longwood loop. I hit rain with about 2 miles to go. Felt decent and hit a sustained 13 mph on the radar gun. Glad to get out on this route again. Have a blessed day!

10-10-7.9

I did two runs in my special place--Eastport,Maine! That was last Friday and Saturday. Both mornings were cool and clear.  The miles and time just flew by. I felt really good on both workouts. On Saturday I stopped twice to talk to old friends. I stayed at Harris Point--some of the nicest owners in the business. Nice 7.9 miler this morning. God Bless!

Autumnic Energy

Today had the feel of fall with a dry 64 degrees. I didn't see anyone with the exception of a couple of people putting out their recyclables. I felt like the time just glided by as I passed along the streets of Ridge on my workout.  I was thinking of how quickly the time has passed here in Ridge. These streets have been my new home after 23 years in Eastport. It seems as if a day doesn't pass when my mind is not at least in part still thinking of Eastport. Blessed to get a good workout of 7.9 miles this morning.

By the Light of the Silvery Moon

I headed out the door at 4:10 am.  I didn't have the best nights sleep with the anticipation of another school year and hence another first day of school with the students. I felt decent considering the time. Saw my friend Ed and was chased by a really big dog.  Got out the door at 6:45 for my commute. Glad to get the work in before work God Bless! Oh yeah,8.6 miles in the dark!

32 In The Great Wild Blue

I decided to ride the bike as I slept in tip just past 7.  I felt strong as I glided along dodging a few raindrops on the way. First day of school with the students tomorrow.  God Bless!

Early Start to a Day Off

The principal told us that we didn't have to come in for in-service today--but I got up at 4 anyways. I took it a bit easier today enjoying my time out on the course.  I saw a nutty deer taring it up as well as  a squirrel scampering around. Not the most energetic , but I enjoyed the workout knowing that I could nestle in bed afterwards. Saw two other runners heading the opposite direction. Started by going to 25 and back to add an extra tenth for 8.6 miles! God Bless All

Not A Real Runner

I borrowed my title from dailymile. I wrote about how I have changed my workouts,which I have written about in my blog before. Main point is that I don't run all of my workout. I walk ,run at faster paces,and sprint up hills. I did this because for several years my body has been getting increasingly more sore after my runs. The outside of my knees would ache until the next workout and then ache until the next workout. My muscles were taking longer to recover--so I changed my plans. Plus,running is damaging to your joints over time--that's a fact. My belief is that a lot of people who run would be better off walking or walking and running.  Sometimes our competitive nature gets the best of us and we refuse to change and oftentimes injuries result. I mean if your motivated by improving your times or running marathons you probably don't want to walk. BUT,if you find yourself always getting injured you may want to ask yourself the question if maybe it's time to walk away from the PR's and races and change it up. I have made that switch. I would rather workout and be healthy than set PR's and hobble around the end of my life in need of hip and knee replacements. That's me and my thoughts only--JUST A THOUGHT. Oh yeah,8.5 miles this morning on the streets of Ridge.

Running in a Dream

I did another 8.5 miles this morning. I haven't quite been 100%,but thankfully I'm still on my feet. I ran well,but I felt like I was running in my sleep. It was 70 degrees and humid-but not too bad. Very quiet,saw a biker heading past me this morning on Whiskey Road. He had a bright blinking headlight. I felt fairly strong despite not being my best. God Bless!

Wet Workout doesn't Wake Me Up

  I usually get out of bed ready to go--not so much this morning! I got up a bit tired and am still a bit lethargic. I got rained on this morning with some showers at 70 degrees. Luckily it wasn't a drenching rain so I made out ok. I got in another 8.5 miles in almost complete solitude. I'm blessed!

Everything Looks Perty at 4:30

I had to get to school a bit earlier today so I hit the roads at 4:30.  I saw a family of deer and a rabbit at Apple Court. I felt decent this morning with my last week of in-service training before school next week. I got in a nice 8.5 miles. I'm feeling a bit rushed this week so I haven't put a lot of detail into my blog--but,the workouts are still rolling--BLESSED! have a great day!

Thurs. 8.5 and Fri. 7.8 miles

Back at school this week. Lots of challenges. Blessed to get 5 workouts in this week.

Back on Schedule

I got a good start getting up nice and early. Not quite as strong as yesterday,but blessed to get a workout in. Nice 8.5 miles. Look forward to going to my parents in two weeks.

By The Dawns Early Light

I got out early--back to the school routine of early starts! I felt good on the hill sprints. It was a comfortable 59 degrees. I saw my good friend Arlem out on his run. Blessed to get in a good 7.8 miles.

Two Early

The first day of school is today. I was anxious and had a lot on my mind. I could not sleep at all. So,at two I got out of bed and did my 7.8 mile run. The streets were quiet spare a cat and a buck. I wondered why people were out driving,while they were probably wondering why I was running at that time. I felt surprisingly good,and when I got back and showered I went back to bed and slept un 5:30--time to go to work and catch the train for a training in Manhattan. Now on the train for Freeport   I'm glad I got the workout in. God Bless! Posted on dailymile,but only minimal as no one sea interested--this blog I don't expect comments so I'm not discouraged.

Working out Not Blogging

I've been to Maine--Eastport and Hope!  I've been biking and running. Strength training going strong. I miss my three youngest daughters who are back in Maine. On dailymile I feel like nobody is paying attention. Back to the blog-- will stay with dailymile also,but will go back to the blog-- God Bless! 8.5 miles today.

On Day

I got up at around 6 and was on my bike and out the door with two cups of coffee in my system by 6:10.  I headed out with overcast skies and temps in the 60's-- very comfortable! I saw a fair number of bikers out,all heading in the opposite direction. Ended up getting 5 workouts in anyways,blessed to get them in. Watched Wolverine at noon,pretty good movie. Looking forward to church tomorrow! Have a great day!

Off Day

Last week I did 6 workouts,when I typically do 5.  Well,today I didn't head out the door--instead,I stayed in bed with my wife. She said she would like to hang out with me. So I read myBible and am watching some sci-fi movie.  I'm fortunate that my daughters can stay 2 extra days. Blessed!

Wed.-bike 32 Thurs.--run 8.5

The summer can be trying with 7 people under one roof. That said,I am blessed to have these people here,and wish it could be the case year-round. God Bless!

Nice Conditions

It was 63 degrees and dry this morning on my 32 mile ride. I was passed by Karl Hart riders. I kept pace for awhile until the signal was made-- I could not keep pace after that. I was a bit tired this morning,but by end I was ok. Nice to be home. God bless!

32 in Long Island

I was glad to get out this morning on my bicycle. I was a bit tired so I backed off a little bit. I love this route with it's fields and trees. Will attempt to ride this week and then possibly return to running next week. God Bless!

Friday 6.2 and Saturday 6.2

I put these workouts in dailymile in that its easier to log on with my phone. So here is a little blogging after the fact. I enjoyed once again running the dirt roads of Pennsylvania. The hills were challenging as I ran past ponds,streets ,and wildlife.  It was nice training in such beautiful surroundings. The most important thing is that I got to spend time with my wonderful blended family. There are always challenges when blending a family,but thankfully with the Lords help things are always improving. Blessed to have this special time in the Poconos!

Wednesday and Thursday in the Poconos :Cool Running

I did my 6.2 miles on Wednesday and Thursday. It was 64 yesterday and 50 degrees this morning. Feeling strong and at the same time feeling the steep hills. I'm always glad when I hit Mqple Street since that marks the end of the series of hills. I was tired after a long day yesterday spent at Knoebles Amusement park in Elysburg,Pa. Blessed to be able to workout in this beautiful place!

Day 2: Wet Roads and Clouds

 I didn't see any wildlife this morning. I was a little tired when I woke up,but as the workout progressed I felt better. Ended the workout feeling just fine. Now at the end of the day,my shoulders are feeling sore from swimming and climbing up the iceberg 20 plus times. 6.2 miles.

6.2 Will Do With this Amazing View

I slept horribly last night,all the same I woke up at 5:50 am. I did my sit-ups and stretching then headed out doing my 5 K loop twice. This is one of my favorite workout loops. I saw a couple of deer,a turkey,a partrige,and a couple of walkers. There are some steep hills on these mostly dirt roads. Nice start to the week--tired now,from lack of sleep--luckily not doing much. Going to a place tonight that ser es

Goal Accomplished

I wanted to get five days of biking in to beat the heat and thankfully the goal was accomplished. I did 32 miles with extra pick-UPS thrown in with two off days coming up. God is good and am blessed to have another week in the books. Off to the Pocono's next week. My running loop out there is one of my favorite runs. The peace and solitude I feel on that route is wonderful. Enjoying my time with my precious daughters. God Bless!

Better Day

It was 79 and extremely humid before 6 am here in Ridge. I did 32 miles with some pick-UPS included--pedalling in lower gears. There are parts of this route that remind me of Maine. Having all my daughters here reminds me of how precious they are to me. Blessed to have good health and good workouts.

Sore in the Saddle

I did another 32 miler.with less oomph than yesterday. I did several intervals standing on the bike to giving my aching butt a break. Turned out to be.a great idea. 77 and.humid at 6am,give me a break. Have a blessed day.

Deuce

Day two of biking. 75 and humid at 6 am. The wind was in my face on the way back on my loop. Lots of cars take no pity on a biker.  On my way back at the 22 mile mark a biker passed me. I decided I didn't like it so I made haste and passed him shortly after not to be heard of again. Some guys I can't re-take,but it's nice when I can keep the edge. I'm glad I brought water. Felt a bit peeked by the end of the run. God Bless All!

32 Biking in Ridge

I got out at 6:30 on my Dawes hybrid bike.It was nice to bike again. It has been my routine for the past two summers here in Ridge. Saw other bikers out and about. I love this route,especially the back road in Calverton that takes me past Grumman and the golf course--reminds me of Maine. Blessed to have a good workout in beautiful surroundings.

Change of Plans

It was 69,drizzly,with lots of fog. I was hoping to bike,but I decided against it. Hopefully next week,that's the plan anyways--subject to change. The hip was fine and ran within myself. A group of lady runners ran by me going in the opposite direction. Blessed to get the workout in--thankfully the intervention with my http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2117940236635878577#editor/target=post;postID=5497695505240874505http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2117940236635878577#editor/target=post;postID=5497695505240874505

A Day Off.is.Not.a Day Wasted

I did two sets of twenty-five sit-ups . I decided my hip needed intervention of ice and ibuprofen. Luckily it is responding very well. I think I will switch to biking-- at least for tomorrow,maybe next week. I've been going back and forth from running to biking for some time now. So when my body feels beat down from one,I can switch to the other. One of the advantages of working out for

Nice Start

I did 8.3 in 70+% humidity and 76 degrees at 5:30 am. Only one person was out with my earlier start with the exception of three turkeys. My left hip is a little stiff,but not painful-- will monitor with only one workout left for the week and two off days coming up. Good to see my old friend Andy training again. God Bless!

I've Been Running Just Not Blogging

I've been putting the last few weeks only on dailymile.com,sorry. My computer is at work ,and being a teacher I've been away from work for three weeks. I've maintained my workouts doing around 40 miles a week or so. My strength work has also been on par. Last week I did 4 workouts in Hope,Maine-- those  hills and horseflies were killers. This week so far Mon.- 8.5 miles   Tues.- 8.3 miles. Wed.- 8.3 miles.  To sum,the workouts have been done in hot and humid conditions almost since the end of school. My daughters are all here-- wish they were here all the time! I've been blessed to be consistent in my workouts. I've seen all sorts of wildlife- turkeys,rabbits,and deer,all with their young. I will get back to my regular blogging,but once again all these workouts were on dailymile under Eric C. Pendleton. God Bless!

Last Day of Spring..last day of school!!

I did my Woodlot double loop again with three Apple Court loops. I think I like this workout for now. So the distance is 8.3 miles. Reading my blog yesterday I realized that I have blogged as long here on Long Island as I had in Eastport. I trained for twenty more years there before I discovered blogging ,but the number of years on the blog is the same. I do have more entries when training in Eastport,but I'm back blogging consistently again. It was a comfortable and dry workout. I feel like I'm back in Maine with this comfortable training weather. Students leave in half an hour--God Bless!

Woodlot ..the place to be

I doubled up on Woodlot again this morning also doing the Apple Court loop three times. It was 56 and clear. Last night was filled with rain,but today has better things in store. Two more days of school. I felt strong on the hills powering up them better than yesterday. Looking forward to this summer--I feel like God has good things in store for me and my family. I was pleased to get in another 8.3 miles. God Bless!

The Chronicles of a Wandering Runner: The Lost Workouts

Dailymile has greater detail ,but here it goes!

          Wed.  7.6 miles in Hope: 56 degrees and rainy
           Thurs.  9 miles in Eastport,Dump Road,Clark,Water St.,Adams St,High St.,Harris Point,Washington St. to name a few.
            Fri.   In Eastport---same as yesterday,but added a loop through town for 10 miles.
            Sat.  In West Buxton,did 4.5 on Mary Jane Rd, and along the river.

A few thoughts.  I wanted to get in four workouts and the Lord made it possible. It is always nice to enjoy old routes and the nostalgia that goes with it. Hope as usual was challenging with it's hills. In Eastport--Adams Street still presents a challenge with an extremely steep hill. I even knocked on my old friend Andy's door,but I think he was sleeping in. The lack of reception and internet access made keeping up with my log difficult. So I just waited until I had time back home on Long Island. I was able to hike the deep cove trail at Shackford's head twice. I love the beauty and solitude of this glorious spot. I am so blessed to be able to spend this time with my precious daughters. I enjoyed my stay at Harris Point. God Bless!

Mr. Sandman took a left in Albuquerque

I just could not fall asleep--doesn't happen often but,last night was one of those nights.  I got up anyway at 4:15 and did 8.5 miles. Felt ok,not great!  Blessed to get the work in nonetheless. Next run could be in Hope,Maine.  We'll see. God Bless!

It's a Drain to Train in the Rain

I went out into a steady drizzle which progressed into a steady light rain. I reversed the order of my figure eight to head to tree cover and hope things got better--and they did. I didn't get soaked and finished up a decent 7.8 mile run. I was tired this week ,but with God's strength I was able to get in the usual milage. Blessed!

Tired and Groggy in the Foggy

I slept until 40 seconds before my alarm went off this morning. I was tired at first,but after I did my sit-ups I seemed to perk up. I saw my friend Arlem and another runner this morning--nice to see others occasionally. I felt fairly strong and quick up the hill sprints. There was some fog lingering in the air--the precursor to the upcoming storm. So blessed to have a good workout in!

Tired

I felt like going.back to bed. Nice 7.8 miles--zzz

I think I Saw a Wabbit

It was 59 degrees and clear. I felt more fluid today than yesterday. Just feeling a bit more fatigued than usual--the way I feel at the end of every school year. I saw a spotted rabbit on Ridge. Not a soul out today. Blessed! Did 7.9 miles.

Running in the Rain

I did 8.5 in a light rain and 64 degrees. Great weekend and a good start to the week. God Bless!

Wild Swings

I started this training week on Sunday wearing sweats and gloves and finished today wearing shorts and a T shirt.  Each year I am surprised at how it seems you go strait from cold to hot weather without a lot of transition. I felt a little more fluid today on my workout. I saw my friend Arlem at the end of my 8.5 mile workout.  The pain of being apart from Kaitland,Rebekah,and Kimberly just seems to get worse--I miss them terribly. Yet,my confidence and hope is in the Lord who brought me my Charlotte and so much more. God Bless!

Summer Breeze Makes Me......

It was 64 degrees and clear this morning. I saw three other runners out. It's funny how when good weather hits everybody hits the fitness craze.  I felt ok--a little stiff--but ok.  I did Ridge,Raynor,Woodlot,and 2x Rt. 25 and back for 8 miles. Blessed--looking forward to our church's men's retreat this weekend in Wading River.

57 and Mild for a humid 8.5 miles

I took the day off yesterday as I ran on Sunday which is usually an off day for me and ran my usual route here with an extra Apple Court for 8.5 miles. I didn't feel great nor did I feel bad--felt ok which is ok with me.  Saw another runner on Ridge--I see him every once in awhile.  It was nice to run in Maine,but back at it here in New York. God Bless!

2 Days in Hope,Maine.

 This is a tale of two different days. On Sunday I went out on my usual course here of 7.6 miles in cold and rainy conditions. I saw a runner on my way out and he tried to pass me on the way back. On Monday,it was sunny,windy,and 43 degrees on the same 7.6 mile course. It was a beautiful day--so glad I got out. I got 3 workouts in during my four days here--Blessed to be here with Kimberly,Bekah,and Kaitland!

Rainy Days in Eastport Always make Me Wet

  Today I ran 7.9 miles in Eastport while waiting to pick my daughters up from school and go to my parents in Hope.  Nice run up Adams Street. I have more on dailymile--my daughter wants this computer. God Bless!

My Log Disguised as a Blog

I have had a good string of workouts lately. I did my usual plus another extra Apple Court for 8.5 miles.  It was 64 degrees with a cool breeze out of the north and drizzle in the air--PERFECT conditions.  I saw one runner when I was running around Apple Court heading up Raynor towards 25. Looking forward to hopefully a run or two in the hills of Hope,Maine.  I'm glad that Andy occasionally leaves a comment. Back in the day when blogs were in I received regular feedback--these days no comment is the norm.  I still have decided that a blog is also a way for me to look back at my own workouts as well. I do get occasional feedback on dailymile .com. Somehow,keeping this blog alive I think is a good thing. God Bless!

No Jive--8.5

It was my first day in short sleeves at clear and 61 degrees. Nobody out and around. Felt good again today thankfully. Added the extra loop on Apple Court on my standard loop. Nice day.God Bless!

Longing for Longwood

 I went out and did my Apple Court loop ,and after the second lap I decided to do the Longwood loop. It's been a few weeks since I have done this loop so today was a get to know you again sort of run. I hit 12 mph on the radar gun.  Nice mild humid 57 degree day. For more info on my day check out dailymile. God Bless! 8,4 miles

Early Bird Gets the Oatmeal

 I headed out the door at 4:18 in order to get my workout in before I took my daughter to work.  I kicked hard at the end to pass my neighbor who was finishing up her run.  Bright and 55 degrees perfect.  Nice 7.8 miles. God Bless!

Good Morning

I got up and was my usual tired self--until I had my cup of coffee.  It was 55 degrees,nice and comfortable.  I felt stronger today and glided in the other direction past my friend Arlem,  The air was thick with pollen,smelled great though.  I did an extra Apple Court loop for 8.5 miles.  Finishing the week strong--so to speak.  My weight is down to 196,now that's more like it! God Bless!

Steady Eric

  My alarm has been waking me up the past couple of weeks.  Perhaps a sign that I am tired.  I do look forward to the weekend in which I usually take both days off.  5 days of training seem about right.  The year has been good for strength gains and consistency.  It was a cool feeling 48 degrees with the dampness of coming precipitation in the air.  I felt strong again on the hill sprints and fairly fluid on the pace portions of the workout. Not much stirring this morning just the usual turkeys and deer.  Long Island is beautiful with it's tall pines and plethora of budding plant life. God is good.  I am looking forward to seeing my daughters next weekend! Nice 7.8 miles:)

Chilly Morning

It was a clear 39 degrees out this morning.  The songbirds that had been so prevalent were now snuggling in their nests to avoid the chill of the morning. The deer were out feeding as usual. I felt decent this morning and was my usual strong self up the hill sprints,but did not feel quite as fluid on the pace portions of the workout.  Not many out stirring this morning.  Nice 7.8 miles. It's nice to see my friend Andy is back out training again.

Good Start

Got out a few minutes later with a not so great night's sleep. Got the 7.8 in anyway. Thankful for nice weather and increasing daylight.

In The Groove

I got out this morning--not feeling too tired---not felling like a world beater--just getting out on the roads because that's my goal. It was 55 degrees and the birds were putting on a symphony.  Even the turkeys and geese chirped in.  It's been absolutely perfect weatherwise.  Things aren't great and things aren't bad--fine with me.  Looking forward to church this weekend!  God Bless--7.8 miles.

Sleeping in...right!

I was tired and cranky last night...going to sleep in.  Got up at 4 and used the facilities..then back to bed.  I could not sleep so I got up and did my usual on a 55 degree misty spring morning. I saw Arlem out on Ridge.  Felt decent..love this time of year. Did 7.8 miles.

Beating The Rain

 I did my usual 7.8 miles this morning.  It was 55 degrees--nice and mild.  I slipped my shorts on for the first time since early November.  I saw a rabbit and a opossum this morning. I also saw a couple of deer also.  Even though I'm here on Long Island the feel is the same for spring as it was in Eastport.  The surviving of another winter is behind and the positive feeling of an approaching summer is ahead. It is discouraging to think back to years past of good strong workouts in the younger years. That said,I am grateful that I have maintained consistent in working out. I will not linger in the past,but will place my focus on the now.  I have some small goals I will be focusing on in the coming month which I'm sure will bring positive results.  Looking forward to my daughters graduation coming up next month.  God Bless! Oh yeah--as soon as I finished this morning it began to shower:)

New Focus

The Lord has been bringing many good Scriptures to memory lately helping me to rightly focus on Him.  I felt much better today,doing 7.8 miles--powering up the hills once again. 44 and cloudy. God Bless!

New Week

I got out around 4:35 this morning. I had energy enough,but my muscles and joints were a bit sore.  A busy weekend inhibited my recovery a bit,but I am pleased to get my eight miles in.  Blessed to have good health and a wonderful family!

8.1 On The Usual

Beautiful 52 degree morning.  Abundant wildlife out again. Didn't see any other runners out this morning.  Heading to Portland after school for my father's 70th birthday. He's the man that besides Jesus I have tried to pattern my life after. God Bless!

The National Day of Prayer

Cool 37 degrees this morning. Arlem and the lady up the street out and about this morning. Did 8 miles doing middle country and back twice before doing my figure eight loop.  Not quite as loose and easy as the past two days.

Apple Court,Ridge Raynor,Woodlot on a Cool,Clear Morning

I was a little groggy when my alarm went off,but the feeling seemed to dissipate as I got up and moving.  It was a clear and cool 43 degrees this first day of May.  I saw a lot of deer and a tom turkey this morning. I felt pretty decent and strong this morning.  I enjoyed Bible study last night even though I was quite tired after a long day of work.  I was pleased again to get in a good 7.8 miles this morning.  I MISS my three daughters in Maine!  God Bless All!

The Usual 7.8 miles

I got out at 4:30 with the temp at a seasonal 54 degrees.  The deer and the turkeys were both out.  My stomach was bothering me at the beginning,but it improved as the workout progressed.  I couldn't help but think of some of the moral issues of our times.  People hate you if you disagree with abortion or gay marriage.  Chris Broussard is being condemned because of his speaking out on homosexuality even though he is simply stating what the Bible says about the topic.  For now,suffice it to say the stifling of speaking out for conscience sake is troubling.  We are becoming a society where dialogue on moral issues is no longer tolerated. The insidious political correctness movement is attempting to silence those who uphold the Bible as their moral compass. Shame on us!  Oh yeah,good workout1

Saturday 32 on the Bike: Today 7.8 Running

Getting to the computer hasn't been that easy.  Two decent workouts.  Looking forward to heading to Maine for my father's 70 th birthday!

Better Run

I  hit the old standby 7.8 miler. The temp was a cool 45 degrees.  I hit the hills nice and hard.  Trusting that by the end of the day I will have a better sense of self-esteem than I do right now. God Bless All!

Damp Spring Day

It was 52 with wind and sprinkles in the air.  I did my standard 7.8 miler.  I felt like the conditions were ideal. I felt stronger with less stiffness today. Leg work for the week is out of the way. All workout I was thinking about what to do with the eighth grade in PE today. Have a blessed day all!

My Workout/My Companion

  It was another cool morning at 45 degrees.  I was glad to hit the streets even though I was a bit stiff and tired.  I've been blessed to be able to workout.  The quiet time on the road has been a constant for 30 plus years.  The goal for me isn't competition anymore like it is for many--my goal is health and the sense of well-being I get from working out.  These workouts have provided me stress-relief through many fiery trials in life.  Usually by the end of my workout I feel like I've mapped out my day or have worked through a pressing problem. Yes,at times I have run with my friend Andy,but almost 98 percent of the time I have worked out alone.  So today I am grateful for another workout at 7.8 miles--blessed.

Back at It

I headed out after three off running days.  Sunday night was a bad night for sleep--I actually decided against running and slept in.  The work days are so long that I felt the extra rest was needed to finish the day out.  The weather was cool and drizzly--feeling more like winter than summer.  I did the Apple Court/Longwood loop which is 8.4 miles.  I hit 12 mph on the radar gun/maybe 13.  I was a bit fatigued as I had done an extra set of squats yesterday.  Just tried to get through the workout with minimal effort. God Bless All!

Life Is Interesting

When I woke up at four I was interested to see that one of the bombing suspects was killed and the other one is contained but still at large.  The workout itself was less than stellar.  My body was stiff and achy(not like the flu)from a week of training and long work days.  Well it's Friday--and Sunday is coming--Glory! Glad to get 7.8 in the bank account.

A Change in Plans

  I went out the door thinking that I would do the standard 7.8 miler.  On the way out of Apple Court I decided to head the other direction for the Longwood 8.4 miler.  The stars were out and slowly faded away when the sun began to rise. Fortunately,I witnessed a falling star at Apple Court--pretty sight.  I hit 13 mph on the radar gun.  I picked a speed that with effort(but without straining)I can consistently hit it.  I also saw a rabbit at the Court this morning. Blessed to be able to workout:)

Apple Court,Woodlot,Raynor,Ridge Route

Nice mild 54 degree day. Fewer running clothes to put on. I didn't get the best nights sleep with some stomach issues. When I woke up I was thinking about going back to sleep--but,after my coffee I decided to get the workout in. The clouds were prevalent keeping the light at bay. Felt pretty decent for the most part. Better days and better weather ahead Lord willing. Nice 7.8 miler.

Monday/Tuesday

I wasn't able to blog yesterday,but I did get in a nice 8.4 mile run. This morning I did 7.8.  My prayers are for those affected by yesterdays tragedy in Boston.  These are the times when are hearts ache for the hurting and our eyes look to God!

Consistency

Decided on Monday that I was going to just keep each day this week the same at 7.8 miles.  The conditions were 46 degrees,damp,and windy.  The feel of the upcoming bad weather was in the air--the calm before the storm,loved it.  Going to the movies tonight with friends Al and Nancy--of course with my lovely wife.

Dark and Damp

It was 54 degrees this morning.  There were no stars because of the cloud cover.  These workouts afford me the time to pray,reflect,and give thanks.  The benefits of working out is much more than physical fitness.  I might not always like the early starts,but I never regret the workout.  I have felt especially strong this week on the hills. Blessed to have such a good year of training. Nice 7.8 on Apple Court,Ridge,Raynor, and Apple Court.

Tuesday and Wednesday Runs

I did 7.8 miles yesterday and today. It has been mild both days. Most likely will stick with this distance for the rest of the week-Lord willing. Will use this week to simply maintain and enjoy the workout. God Bless All!

New Start

I got out before 4:30 this morning as I'm beginning a new teaching assignment at school. Today was a decent workout--not overly strong nor overly tired. I saw a couple of rabbits at Apple Court. I also heard some turkeys at the end of Ridge. Just blessed to be able to workout. Nice 7.8 miler. May stick with this distance for the week.

Saturday is a nice Day for a Run

It was 37 and windy,back to winter. The sun was out and the birds were singing. I was glad to run a rare weekend workout. Nice 7.8 miler. God bless!

The Old Standby

The temps were warmer at 46 degrees,but the dampness made it feel cooler.  I could here a group of turkeys up on Raynor road roaming about.  I felt really powerful on my hill sprints this morning. It has been over a week since I did this loop so it was nice to do my ole 7.8 mile workout.

Chilly 8 feels Great

I took Wednesday off due to a horrible nights sleep Tuesday night so I felt pretty good again this morning. I did 8.4 miles on the Apple Court/Longwood Loop.  I hit 12 mph on the radar gun. It's wonderful to see an increase in daylight each morning.  The birds were singing and the feet were flowing over the roads of Ridge.  God Bless All.

Back Home on the Longwood Loop

I did my old Apple Court,Longwood Loops today. I hit 12mph on the radar gun this morning so all is good. Felt strong and fluid for the most part. I realized that this loop helps me to stay ready for the hills back in Maine.  It was nice to be home again although I was blessed to visit my wonderful daughters and good friends once again.  My parents are the best hosts of all. God Bless You! Did 8.4 miles.

Nice Easter Run in Hope

I got up early for one more run in Hope. I felt much better on the last two workouts here-plus a good workout in Eastport. The streets were much quieter on a weekend than a schoolday. The time glided by as a went passed streams and mountain views. Nice workouts here in Maine. I enjoyed the early morning church service as well. Time with my daughters and parents is always a blessed time. Thanks you Jesus for your many wonderful blessings! 7.6 plus miles

Downeast 8.8 miler

I'm sitting here in the Motel East overlooking the beautiful Passamaquoddy Bay.  I've had some good workouts here in Maine. Today I was blessed to re-visit some of my old running spots.  I truly enjoyed running in the unmatched beauty of Eastport,Maine. I never once took the beauty of this area in the twenty three years that I lived here. I felt strong on my pick-ups.  I think the fact that with the exception of the Adam's street hill,not running up gut busting hills made today seem like a relative breeze. Nice sunny (for most of the run) 31 degree run.  I ran past a number of deer--but these deer are tame and barely flinch as you run past them. Saw my good friend Andy driving out of town near the end of my run. Simply blessed to be able to come back to this place where God had me for many years. Miss my Charlotte!

There is Hope

 My second day in a row in running 7.6 plus miles on the hills of hope.  Today seemed easier in ascending the challenging hills. All said, these runs away from home provide nice variety to the running routine. I'm enjoying my time with my wonderful parents.

Hillbilly Run

When I workout here in Hope,Maine the feelings of well-being only come after the workout. The hills here are steep and long so a little more intestinal fortitude is necessary.  There was lots of traffic this morning with Maine children still in school. The problem here is that there are no shoulders on the road. All the same the scenery here is simply beautiful with lakes,streams,snow covered meadows and tall hardwoods. The 7.6 plus mile workout consisted of two big loops and a small additional loop. Always good to get a workout in when I'm away from home. God Bless everyone!!!

Out and About 8.5

Nice run. Off to Maine now.

Starting at Home

I still woke up at 4. I like having the roads to myself so staying with the early start. I did 8.5 on my usual Ridge,Raynor,Woodlot,Apple Court workout ,but added an extra Apple court. I felt pretty decent with some minor stomach issues. You could feel the chill in the air with another storm on it's way. I was glad to start the week off with 8.5 miles plus I walked the dog 5 plus miles at Brookhaven. Looking forward to running the hills of hope later this week. God Bless!

Nice Finish!

I was pleased with this weeks training.  I enjoyed each workout this week. My body has adjusted to the time change finally.  I felt really good in all phases of the workout.  I hit 12 mph on the radar gun on Longwood road.  Looking forward to spring vacation and going to visit my folks and bringing my daughters to their house for a visit. God Bless!

Vacation in Sight

It was another pleasant morning at 34 degrees and overcast.  Per usual--felt sleepy before the workout,but as soon as the workout began I was feeling strong again. I saw both runners that occasionally make their appearances.  Although the temps are seasonably cool for here,well compared to the homeland--piece of cake.  Feels good to have a good week of training--God Bless All!   7.8 miles in the books

Late Start

It might seem absurd that a 4:30 wake-up time is late well,for me it is a late start given what I have to do before work. Didn't have time for the pre-workout sit-ups but,I did get a set of 25 in after the workout. It was 31 degrees and calm and clear. Although I have been sleepy before the workout surprisingly I have felt alert during the workout.  Another strong effort with good pick-up and form. The time of the 7.8 miles glided by until I found myself at my house.God Bless!

Good Run in Miserable Conditions

The roads were covered with water and slush this morning as a wet steady drizzle fell here in Ridge.  I was tempted to wimp out,but thankfully I persisted.  I felt good again this morning again.  Luckily I dressed in such a way that I was almost oblivious to the bad conditions.  I felt powerful on the hill sprints. The rest of the workout went fairly smoothly. I was glad though when the workout came to a close--another 7.8 miles in the books.

Great Start at 8.4

 I woke up as usual to total darkness.  Getting out of bed has been easier lately--finally getting adapted to early rises with the time change.  The start of a new week is always a fresh start to training--with the off days on the weekend I'm usually ready to start working out afresh. It was cool this morning at 27 degrees with the forecast for a wintry mix later on in the day.  I felt energized for once--I mean not eye of the tiger or anything,but the workout was not wearisome.  I coasted along smoothly and did the pick-ups with good pace,but felt a slight stiffness in my left lower back--nothing serious.  I hit 12 mph on the radar gun--I've been trying to hit that lately. I felt strong on the hills which are longer on the Longwood loop.  I love running on the Wading River Hollow Road with it's tall pines towering over the route.  I had a sense of satisfaction at the end of today's workout.  Next week-----VACATION!

Friday Yay- 7.8

Today is a Friday--a very good day. No after school program.  Last day of work for the week. Last workout of the week.  I had decent energy today,just felt kind of sore from a weeks worth of strength training and running. Nice breeze rustling through the pines and the birds singing. A very nice day:)

Colder and Windy 7.8

 I was out on Apple Court,Ridge,Raynor,and Woodlot.  I love this route. I feel like I own the roads in the pre-5 am hours of the morning. It's a nice wooded run with lots of peace and quiet along with some wildlife. I felt decent today.  I saw my old friend Arlem running back towards his home,didn't get the opportunity to say "hi".  Just blessed to be able to get out and train. It's also nice to see that my old friend Andy is blogging and running again. God Bless Everyone!

Another Day at 7.8 miles

I got out of bed by force of habit. The bed has just felt so comfortable this week. It was a clear and calm 45 degrees out-ideal! The temptation to go inside and lay on the couch was strong this morning. Despite the temptation I managed a good workout. After the workout I felt a slight twinge in my left hamstring. Old injuries like old friends like to come back for visits. I think I'll be fine,need to ease up on the hill sprints and do extra stretching. It's funny how the hammie tends to act up in the spring. Just 8 more school days left until vacation-yay!! Have a good day-God Bless!

7.8 On Apple Court,Ridge,Raynor,Woodlot

Dark gloomy damp day. Felt good to get out. The time change has made me feel like I'm sleep running. Felt strong on the hills. Saw five deer near the end of the run. God Bless!

8.4 In the Dark Ages

I did the Longwood and Apple Court Loops this morning.   The clouds made a dark sky almost black.  Thankfully there are street lights throughout the course.  Heard a few deer shuffling through the woods.  Grateful for a good workout to start the week.  Only hit 11 mph on the radar gun.  Seemingly less traffic this morning.  Just a little out of sorts with the time change. God Bless!

Another Snowy Day

 I have been using sonriserunning,but a friend had trouble getting on--perhaps this new heading will help.  I hit the roads at about 4:40 am.  The streets were covered in a couple of inches of snow.  Surprisingly,the footing wasn't that bad.  I felt strong today even though this was a long week with less than typical sleep. I shortened my stride on the hill sprints,and dug in with my forefoot more--this technique proved successful as I seemed to power my way up the hills.  I met a guy in a truck who yelled,"You are incredible!"  Made me feel good.  All the years of running in Maine have made snow runs seem somewhat 'typical'.  I finished my 7.8 mile workout with a good little shuffle and was greeted at the end by Jace who was busy shoveling the driveway.  God Bless and good day!