New Explorations in Good Ole Eastport

I got out a bit before 6 am. It was awesome to hit the road again especially the old familiar streets of my old home Eastport. It was dark at first with a hint of light in the pre-dawn hours. It was around 14 degrees when I headed out the door , but fortunately there was no wind. I did the North End loop and the Dump road loop and the in town 3 mile loop. I deviated at the end bu heading past Sherm Camick’s house an past Hewlet Avenue down to the tracks and then up to the Motel East stopping my watch at the top of the steps on the second floor by room 18. Here are the final stats 9.51 miles in 2:08:53 for a 13:33 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 631 feet with an average heartrate of 127 bpm. This isn’t where I grew up , but it feels like home. Have a blessed New Year!

Take Two

My wife has asked me not to go out tomorrow. I hate to give up a workout withthis being vacation and me eating a good amount. I decided to head out the door when my wife went to Weight Watchers. I decided that I would tryto do about 6 miles doing the figure 8. I ended up doing Woodlot then continueing down Whiskey for the Randall Loop. Instead of doing Raynor Road I looped down Ridge to Whiskey and up Raynor making a quick jaunt down Kastal to the intersection then back home. I did 8.21 miles in 1:53:04 for a 13:46 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 177 feet and an average heart rate of 112 bpm. I started out leisurely, but ended up doing the last 4 miles in under 13 minutes per mile. I was blessed to get the workout in! God bless!

Great Britain

The vacation week is going by quickly. I am enjoying time with my daughter and grandson. I think that we have hit the post Christmas blues. For weeks it has been push push along with heightened expectations and now there is a void. The blended family like any family is a beautiful unique animal. At times it seems like a “regular “ family— getting along caring about each other. Then when internal conflicts arise we splinter into competing entities. The us turns into us and them. This morning I did the Woodlot twice with an Apple Court out and back and a third reverse Woodlot loop coming back on the trail rather than Whiskey road for a total of 9.34 miles in 2:09:44 hours for a 13:53 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 160 feet with an average pulse of 113 bpm at a temperature of 34 degrees and 77 percent humidity. My hamstring was feeling a little bit better. Have a blessed day!

The Day After

I woke up a bit before 5, but I lingered around to a bit before 6. I tried my Bluetooth headphones, but forgot to properly charge them so I had to bring them back. I started out thinking I would do the Ridge Road Loop, but I decided on the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Medford Loop doing 9.53 miles in 2:09:14 for a 13:33 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 363 feet with an average heart rate of 115 bpm at a temperature of 27 degrees and a cloudy 71 percent humidity. I felt good until the 7 1/2 mile mark where my hamstring tightened up a bit. I changed my foot placement on the crown of the road and changed my gait. I finished ok. Have a blessed day!

An Early Christmas Workout

I got up at my usual workout time which is early— 3:45 am. I read my Bible, got ready, and headed out the door. I did the Medford/Randall Loop doing 8.82 miles in 1:58:12 for a 13:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 197 feet with an average heart rate of 121bpm at a temperature of 33 degrees at 67 percent humidity. My goal was to get my workout in and back before anyone was awake.  I definitely accomplished my goal thanks to the Lord. The goal is guilt free eating:). I heard
an owl near the intersection of Randall Road(Shoreham road) and Whiskey . I was able to walk right down the middle of the road. The moon was bright providing the light necessary to get around in the morning. I was very fortunate to get a workout in. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve Morning Workout

I got up a bit before 5 and then slowly worked my way out the door. There was snow on the ground which had turned to rain for my workout. I did the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Medford Loop doing 9.24 miles in 2:08:23 for a 13:53 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 344 feet with a heartbeat of 117 bpm at a temperature of 33 degrees at 96 percent humidity. It was another rainy dreary morning. Christmas tomorrow! God Bless!

New Route in My Old Home

I had an exhausting day yesterday and a short night in Eastport at the Motel East. I woke up around 4:30, had my coffee, and lingered around for over an hour. I found that even though I was tired, I just couldn’t pass on the opportunity to train in my old home area. I did Adams Steet, High Street , County StreetRoad then to Route 190 to the old 4 mile marker by the yellow sign before Carlow Island, back 190, out Kendell’s Head and back,down 190 to Clark Street, Dog Island, Water Street, and finish up by trail off Water Street, Up the Hill to the Motel East, and up the stairs for 10.21 miles in 2:15:45 for a 13:17 minute per mile pace with a 600 foot elevation gain with a 123 average pulse st a balmy 50 degrees and 100 percent humidity.Exhausted. Good Night! 

Feeling A Bit Like Job

I’m grateful for God’s provision and good health. I am truly blessed and I say that without equivocation.  Still, the family trials and dealing with my daughters’s depression has been taxing. The bad phone call no longer shocks me.  God has placed me in the situation that I deal regularly with problems that I am not good at dealing with. I am confronted at dealing with issues from a standpoint of weakness rather than strength. I believe however that this is exactly what God wants. God exchannging my weakness for God’s strength. Probably the biggest change in my life since becoming a Christian is the fact that I am compassionate as opposed to hardened. I am grateful for the change that Christ makes. Today I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 8.71 miles in 2:04:13 for a 14:16 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 370 feet with an average heart rate of 113 bpm at a balmy 56 degrees at a rainy 88 percent humidity . Looking forward to my trip to Eastport. Praying for God’s watchcare over my family. Have a blessed day!

Feeling OK, But Going Slow

 I did the Ridge Loop and felt good despite being very tired and a little down. I did th Ridge Loop doing 8.98 miles in 2:07:22 for a 14:11 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 194 feet with an average hear rate of 109 bpm at a temp of 27 degrees and 84 percent humidity. Lord willing the same loop tomorrow and then off to Maine. Despite disappointment I am thankful and hopeful. Have a very blessed day!

Longer than I Wanted

I had three routes in mind that were under 9 miles, but I was wrong on one of them. Today I did my combination Figure 8, Randall route. For this week my pace was faster even though my knee was a little sore( I think the squats last night had an effect).  I did 9.17 in 2:04:03 for a 13:31 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 195 feet with an average heart rate of 113 bpm with a temp of 23 degrees at 68 percent humidity.  I’m happy with my training with the goal of staying on top of the workouts and stay ahead of the injury curve. Really looking forward to going to Eastport and bringing Kaitland and Keon here for a week. God Bless!

Cooler Temp

Today marked a back to winter sort of feel with the temps dropping to a more seasonal level. I felt decent and more energetic today. I think the slight cutback is a good thing. I don’t have to push so hard to make time. My knee was a little better. The working on a cement floor is not the best thing for your body. Still I’m feeling better than last year. It was a clear morning and the dark late fall skies were pretty. I’m thinking to myself that next week at this time our days will be increasing in length. Here are today’s stats- 8.82 miles in 2:00:30 for a 13:39 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 205 feet with an average heart rate of 117 bpm at a temp of 33 degrees at a dry 47 percent humidity. There was a good breeze blowing this morning slapping the face and keeping me alert. I’m blessed!

Cutting Back

I’ve decided to keep my workouts under 9 miles a day.  There are three reasons effecting this decision-1. My energy level is low and I have a long trip on Friday. Lord willing, I hope to get a workout in Eastport on Saturday. Thus, I have a need to conserve energy. 2. I want to have plenty of time in the morning to make it to work on time. 3. My right knee is off a bit. It got irritated during the hill workout a couple of Tuesdays ago. I did the Ridge Loop doing 8.85 miles doing an average pace of 13:52 minutes per mile with an elevation gain of 211 feet with an average heart rate of 113 bpm at a temperature of 37 degrees at 92 percent humidity. Looking to the Lord for grace and strength. Praise His name!

Sunday at Wertheim

I am grateful for my weekend hikes with my younger two daughters basically doing their own thing without going totally off the Reservation these hikes are therapeutic. I listen to podcasts and Christian  music. God is faithful. I did Wertheim doing both sides of the inlet . I did 6.26 miles in 1:52:35 for a 17:59 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 122 feet with an average heart rate of 90 bpm at a temperature of 41 degrees at a drizzly 88 percent humidity. One more week before Katie and Keon visit us. My granddaughter Ryleigh is visiting with us today. Nice little treat after church. Jesus is Lord!

Unexpected Saturday Romp

It’s not that Saturday has been an unusual dayfor a hike, it’s that I did not expect to hike today.  My wife told me mid-morning that I could go for a hike. I quickly got ready and headed out the door towards Port Jefferson Station. I drove over, got out of my car, turned on Dr. Charles Stanley podcast and hit the trail. There definitely fewer folks out with the later start and the drizzle. I did 8.14 miles in 2:29:08 for an 18:18 mpm pace with an elevation gain of 585 feet with an average heart rate of 94 bpm at a temperature of 49 degrees with 91 percent humidity. I’m truly blessed and was so pleased to get this workout in. In one week Lord willing , Kaitland and Keon will be here. God is good!

Different but the Same

This week has been challenging, yet productive. There are so many things that I am unhappy and unsure about, but God has given me a peace. Yesterday was another long day. The busier a women gets the astronomically lesser the likelihood of romantic rendezvous. To speak of such a thing could make a man seem uncivilized (which he undoubtedly is of course)— yet the facade of civility is strived for to maintain a peace. I did the Randall Loop doing Randall first before Woodlot. It’s amazing how reversing a route makes the route seem totally different. Here are the stats—9.27 miles in 2:05:50 for a 13:34 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 201 feet with an average heartrate of 114 bpm at a dropping temp of 35 degrees at 93 percent humidity. Looking forward to the weekend and the arrival of my daughter and grandson in a little over a week. God Bless!

Feeling Good

Sometimes just a small change can make a difference. Today I decided to do the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop — had been taking Niewood Road and doing the side road off Kastal— but stuck to doing Longwood and foregoing the hill off Kastal. I did 9.15 in 2:01:30 for a 13:16 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 344 feet with an average pulse of 120 bpm at a temperature of 30 degrees and a dry 57 percent humidity. There were a few flakes in the air on my commute this morning. Good start to the day. God Bless!

Walking Hard on Fumes

Yesterday was the typical Christmas Season busy day. My daughter Kim who sadly has moved out with her boyfriend , spent the evening with me. It’s always good to have Kim who was singing the whole evening— which means that she is happy. I had tons of laundry to put away, including putting on the clean bedding.  My wife got back just before 10 from her women’s paint night at the church. This morning I did the Ridge Loop doing 9.16 miles in 2:04:37 for a 13:36 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 185 feet with an average heart rate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 32 degrees at 64 percent humidity.  It was an overcast dark morning in contrast to yesterday’s bright morning where I saw a falling star. This was a morning where I felt like turning around and heading for home. It is times like this where daily habit kicks in and I keep on trucking. I’m trying to embrace the darkness of these short days. Be blessed!

Even From Behind

Today was the day that I managed to stay on schedule even though I was running behind schedule. My workout started late for various reasons so I did my shortest route the Medford/Randall Loop doing 8.86 miles in 1:57:17 for a 13:14 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 193 feet with an average heart rate of 134 bpm at a temperature of 21 degrees with humidity at 83 percent.  I made it to work on time too thanks to nearly perfect timing .  Have a blessed day!

In The Cool of the Morning

This December has been on the cold side. This morning I got out at the ususal time doing the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Longwood, and Medford Loop doing 9.3 miles in 2:06:28 for a 13:35 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 360 feet with an average pulse of 116 bpm at a temperature of 30 degrees at 64 percent humidity. I felt decent. Looking forward for what Jesus has in store!

Saturday/Sunday

I got up early on Saturday and lounged around before doing the Greenway Trail doing 10.04 miles in 2:55:32 for a 17:28 minute per mile pace with a 679 foot elevation gain with an average pulse of 90 bpm. at a temperature of 20 degrees and 73 percent humidity. Today I did 6.39 in 1:52:47 for a 17:38 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 17:38 minute per mile pace at a temporary of 23 degrees at 76 percent humidity. The scenery was beautiful and the traffic was light. This has been good therapy for my life. Have a blessed day! Jesus be praised!

Change of Course

I woke up this morning expecting to go to school for a typical Friday. I checked my phone and saw a message that my daughter needed me to take her to court for what we thought was a formality. It has since turned out that it is a good thing that I came. I changed my original plan which was for the Ridge Road Loop again, and instead did the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Longwood, and Medfors Loop doing 9.18 miles in 2:05:07 for a 13:38 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 348 feet and an average heartrate of 120 bpm at a temperature of 35 degrees and 63 percent humidity. Here at Suffolk County Family Court. It looks as if this is going to be a good day. God is good!

Cool and Brisk

Today was a good typical morning.  Everything was pretty much on schedule. I had a positive mindset— so I thought to myself this is a good start. I did the Ridge Loop workout again doing 9.05 miles in 1:59:42 for a 13:14 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 189 feet with an average heartrate of 141 bpm at a cool temp of 24 degrees at 73 percent humidity. I had a good commute again this morning. Had a nice talk with my brother thos morning. Last night I took time to look at clips of the President Bush funeral service. Have a blessed day!

Hooting at The Crescent Moon

 I woke up kind of tired. It was a long day yesterday with a couple of nightly interruptions from daughters 1 and 3. I contemplated a day off— just briefly— and then started my day. My stomach has been off a bit at times the last couple of days. Just enough of a problem to be a nuisance.  I did the Ridge Loop with a couple of pit stops.  I did some jogging to try to offset the time in the pits. My final milage left me .02 miles below 9 miles— slightly annoying, but a good workout nonetheless. The owls were hooting up a storm on Whiskey Road. I could distinguish 3 owls, each with a varying deepness to their sounds. I did 8.98 miles in 1:54:05 for a 12:42 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 203 feet with an average heart rate of 122 bpm at a cool 24 degree at 73 percent humidity. I noticed the moon wad crescent as I entered the end of Ridge road. My commute to work was a combination of fast and slow. Slow won today. Have a blessed day!

One Step In Front of ...

Lately, I have been pleased in my workouts even though it seems as if every day I am just getting by. I am working this week at getting my weight back into the low 190’s. I kind of let my weight slip back up into the solid mid 190’s. With a little bit of discipline I can get
it down. I find that I eat as a stress relief— anyway.  I did the new Ridge Loop doing 9.02 in 2:00:10 dor a 13:19 mpm pace with an elevation gain of 185 feet with an average heart rate of 119 bpm at a temporary of 39 with humidity at a dry 57 percent. Have a blessed day!

Friday/Monday

Friday I did my new version of the Ridge Loop going all the way to the end of the road until 25A doing 9.01 in 1:57:32 for a 13:02 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 215 feet and an average heart rate of 120 bpm at a temperature of 29 degrees and 81 percent humidity. Today I did the Randall extra plus loop doing 9.3 miles in 2:04:43 for a 13:24 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 190 feet with an average heartrate of 116 bpm at a balmy 53 degrees and 98 percent humidity. Have a blessed day!

Soaked

I have been blessed to get in another weekend workout of active recovery. I did the Greenway Trail with with nery a person in site for the majority of the workout. The Lord has truly blessed me through this tumultuous time of my life. I am truly blessed and grateful for my workouts. I did 7.56 in 2:00:26 for a 15:55 mpm pace and an elevation gain of 554 feet with an average heart rate of 98 bpm. I was soaked but glad to get the workout in. Jesus be praised.

Feeling Can Be Deceptive

I got out in decent time.  I decided to do the Randall extra plus route. I did a few runs to make up for a pit stop. I felt like I was ahead of my time , but the clock showed me that I was just on my usual pace. I did 9.3 in 2:02:27 for a 13:09 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 256 feet with an average pulse of 118 bpm at a clear 38 degrees at 63 percent humidity. I have PD today. Long day! God provides!

Standard Operation

Today I did my usual workout doing the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.31 miles in 2:02:12 for a 13:07 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 380 feet with an average heart rate of 118 bpm at a temperature of 38 degrees and 63 % humidity. There is a glimmer of light that shines through the clouds and made for a pretty morning workout. I managed to get out earlier and the result was a less hurried workout and commute. I feel blessed by God’s presence during these trying times. God Bless!

Changing it Up

This morning Instarted out on the later side of on time. I had to make a pit stop which I knew would put me on the catching up side of the morning. I made a choice as I was heading down Raynor hill I decided to do 9 x .3 mile hill sprints up Raynor Hill. So here are the stats including warm-up cool down— speed walking wad used except for running the hill sprints— 8.08 miles in 1:42:05 for a 12:38 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 342 feet with an average heartrate of 124 bpm at a damp temp of 43 degrees at 93 percent humidity. I am a bit more sore, but getting done early was a godsend. Have a blessed day!

Shorter Days

This is the time of year when you bleed daylight quickly. The entire workout is now taking place in darkness with maybe a glimmer of light. Today I did the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.3 miles in 2:05:08 for a 13:27 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 372 feet with an average pulse of 118 bpm at a temperature of 43 degrees and 91 percent humidity. I started out with dark negative thoughts , but the thoughts and mood lightened by the end of the workout. God Bless! Praying for Christmas miracles in my family!

FridaySaturday

On Friday I woke up about an hour past my usual time. I wanted a little extra sleep , but I had to get around in time to get Rebekah to work. I’m glad that she has gotten more days at work. I did the Scenic Hills , Niewood, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.15 miles in 1:59:32 for a 13:04 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 365 feet with an average heart rate of 125 bpm at a temperature of 15 degrees and 68 percent humidity. It was a cold Thanksgiving vacation workout, but thankfully I kept a good pace. On Saturday my wife took a break and I took a hike on the Greenway trail doing 8.74 miles in 2:34:13 for a 17:39 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 591 feet with an average heartrate of 99 bpm at a temperature of 44 degrees and 65 percent humidity. Today I met my movement goal with hikes around Prosser Pines, and Randall Game Perserve along with lown mowing and yard work. Some tough things happening, but some good things as well. God is able!

Thanksgiving Starts Early

I got out around 5:30 am. I love these holiday workouts with the roads being almost completely empty. I decided to do the Ridge Loop , but I changed it up. I went reverse around Woodlot first and went all the way to 25A and went back via Castle. It was a cold and breezy fall morning, but at least the sun was out. I did 9.16 miles in 2:01:04 for a 13:13 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of   201 feet and an average heartrate of 126 bpm at a temp of 22 degrees and 47 percent humidity. My car is having problems and so is my family—yet God is in control. Praise His Name! Happy Thanksgiving!

Not Alarmed

I have been dealing with a lot per usual of things that are not fun and that are difficult. That said, I forgot to set my alarm and woke up late. Thankfully I was able to get around quickly and had a good pace. I did the Randall extra plus route doing 9.3 miles in 2:01:14 for a 13:01 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 175 feet with an average heartrate of 119 bpm at a temp of 33 degrees and humidity at 62 percent.  The falls sky provided a beautiful backdrop as I meandered down Raynor road to the finish. Tomorrow Lord willing we head to Maine after our Thanksgiving meal at Roger and Gill’s. Have a blessed day!

Back at It

Yesterday, after I got out of my car for work. I noticed that my back was very sore. In fact the fact that I had to take my car into the garage and walk to school kind of added to the pain. My stomach was bothering me and my legs were chapped from my workout. It was a day of aggravation including dealing with my youngest daughter— ugh. My back was sore this morning, but I stretched it out and took some ibuprofens. I honestly was not sure how it would go. I decided on the Medford/Randall/Woodlot Loop doing 8.83 miles in 1:58:09 for a 13:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 185 feet with an average heartrate of 113 bpm at a temp of 44 degrees at 91 percent humidity. It drizzled lightly with the forecast of rain. Feeling better today. Have a blessed day!

Saturday/Sunday/Monday

Saturday in the Greenway Trail did 8.01 in 2:09:33 for a 16:10 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 585 feet with an average heartrate of 101 bpm at a temp of 48 degrees and 50 percent humidity. Sunday I did Wertheim doing 3.09 in 56:22 for a 18:10 minute per mile pace at a temperature of 39 and an average heartrate of 90 bpm. Today I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 9.2 miles at a 12:18 minute per mile pace at an average heartrate of 122 bpm. My watch stalled out but the stats are fairly accurate based from extrapolating the data. I’m blessed even in my mess. God bless you!

Missouri Loves Company

A family in turmoil tends to remain in turmoil until the route problems are solved. Sometimes it seems as if the problems are insurmountable, but yet each day you wake up with an opportunity for positive change. That’s all that I am saying as this topic could take more time to explain than I have available. I did the Randall Loop plus extra doing 9.19 in 2:04:17 for a 13:31 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 200 feet and an average heart rate of 122 bpm at temperature of 29 degrees and 48 percent humidity. I felt pretty good and enjoyed the feeling of winter. Have a most blessed day!

Ok not Ok

This was the morning of ok and not ok, with the not ok’s with the edge. I got out slightly later so I chose to run some extra. The problem was that the trash got blown all over the place so I had to regather the trash twice. I also had to make a bathroom pit stop. It was a crisp cool windy fall morning .  I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 9.27 mils in 2:03:15 for a 13:18 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 179 feet with an average heart rate of 124 bpm at a temperature of 38 degrees with humidity at 44 percent. I was comfortablotired when I woke up 

Restless Tuesday

Last night like many nights was one filled with some disappointment.  My daughter Kim decided to stay the night at her friends house rather than come home like she was supposed to. This of course creates uneasiness and sleeplessness for me and disdain for my wife.  When people don’t do what they are supposed to it creates problems for the entire household. Today I did the Medford/Randall/ Woodlot Loop doing 8.86 in 2:01:18 for a 13:41 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 219 feet with an average heart rate of 121 bpm at a temperature of 49 degrees and  a rainy 100 percent humidity. God bless! Good Night!

No School Monday

I woke up later with the extra time afforded me. It was a cold fall morning, but the skies were clear. I did the Scenic Hills, Niewood, Medford Loop doing 9.31 miles in 2:04:53 for a 13:24 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 363 feet with an average heart rate of 123 bpm at a temperature of  27 degrees and 85 percent humidity. I am posting this at the Toast Coffee house in Port Jefferson. Have a blessed day!

Friday/Saturday

I did the Ridge Loop reversing the beginning and the ending of the loop(Friday). I did 9.16 miles in 2:05:49 for a 13:43 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 189 feet with an average pulse of 117 bpm at a temperature of 37 degrees at 75 percent humidity. Today I did the Greenway trail with a few extra excursions doing 10:10 miles in 2:47:29 for a 16:35 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 671 feet with a heart rate of 97 bpm at a temperature of 47 degrees and 90 percent humidity. Last night it stormed so that combined with an earlier than usual start made for a beautiful fall walk.picking Charlotte and the team up now typing away outside exit 20 on the Belt Parkway. God is good!

Keep On Moving

I find that with the time change, a change occurs in me as well each year. It seems as if everything is a bit more of a struggle. You would think with the extra hour of sleep that you would have a little extra oomph, but it never seems that way. On the other hand you go to bed an hour later. My body almost always deels better with the spring ahead. Today I did the Randall plus loop doing 9.28 miles in 2:05:55 for a 13:34 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 171 feet and an average heart rate of 117 bpm at a temperature of 50 degrees and 57 percent humidity. The fall is my favorite season to train.  It’s cool, but not cold. The ruffle of the leaves blowing, with beautiful colors lavished across the treeline. The glimmer of sunlight at the end of the workout gives a little bit of hope for the day. Off to the world of PE. Court tomorrow. God Bless!

Tuesday/Wednesday

Two days of busyness. Tuesday Longwood/Medford — 9.58 in 2:10:02 for a 13:34 minute per mile pace at an elevation gain of 333 feet with an average pulse of 120 bpm at a temperature of 51 degrees at 98 percent humidity. Today I did the figure 8 extra plus loop doing 9.24 miles in 2:03:17 for a 13:21 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 159 feet with an average heart rate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 53 degrees and 83 percent humidity. I voted yesterday at the 8 mile mark— stopped my watch— voted— continued to finish my workout. Have a most blessed day!

Good Star.

Batching it for another week with my wife down in the DR. I changed my routine around a bit just to experiment to see if a change would be helpful. Today I did the Medford/Randall/Woodlot Loop doing 9.0 in 2:00:21 for a 13:22 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 201 feet and an average heart rate of 115 bpm at a temperature of 43 degrees at a cloudy 89 percent humidity .  I felt fairly good and was pleased to have a bit of daylight at the end of my workout. Tom Brady and the Pats with a big win over the Packers last night. Have a blessed day!

Sunday Special!

I headed down the trail directly after dropping the mission team off at the airport. I didn’t race walk or run— I just enjoyed the beautiful fall scenery. I saw Brian, his wife, son Eric, and Brenna as I arrived at the trail. I had a sausage biscuit as I was hungry after being up for hours. I did 8.03 miles in 2:05:51 for a 15:40 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 572 feet with an average heart rate of 103 feet at a temp of 41 degrees and 75 percent humidity. I enjoyed a trenti iced coffee on the way back. It’s been a blessed day! God bless you!

Survival

The past few days has proved to be trying. More times than not, God sees us through the storm not around it. I know God will provide, because He always does. Today I woke up from a very comfortable sleep. Experience has taught me that getting up almost always is worth the effort. It was warm, windy, and drizzling this morning. I was able to wear shorts as opposed to wind pants. I did 9.15 in 2:03:46 for a 13:31 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 209 feet with an average heart rate of 115 bpm at a warm temperature of 64 degrees at 91 percent humidity. Looking forward tot the weekend. God is good!

Back Home

I had an adventure that I would have preferred not to have done— but on the other hand I am glad that I could be there for my daughter in a dangerous situation. Today I did the Randall Loop doing 9.27 miles in 2:07:12 doing a 13:43 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 141 miles with an average heart rate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 57 degrees at 84 percent humidity. I felt ok, just wish that I could move faster. Glad that I made it to work on time. God Bless!

Darkness

My impressions for my workouts this time of year is darkness. The entire workout is done in the dark. This morning I was tired , but somewhat positive. I did the Randall Road Loop doing 9.29 miles in 2:07:14 for a 13:42 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 155 feet with an average heart rate of 116 bpm at a temperature of 44 degrees and 74 percent humidity. So blessed to get the work in. God Bless!

Downpour

I stayed up late watching the Red Sox clinch the World Series in Los Angeles last night. This morning it was a matter of operating on fumes. I cut my workout short as I was drenched through in the thunderstorms that came through Ridge this morning. My stats are a bit of a guess as far as distance, but it is fairly close. My watch I think was effected by the downpour— 8.15 miles in 1:52 for a 13:56 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of approximately 180 feet at a temperature of 51 degrees at 100 percent humidity. That’s it for now. God bless you!

Sunday Runday

 I got out a bit earlier than last week. My plan was to jog and speed walk. There were lots of leaves on the ground along with branches from the heavy rain and strong winds. There were fewer people out on the trail. I stopped quickly for my iced flat white at Starbucks. I had a nice hike with my wife later in the day. The stats for the day 7.54 in 1:22:30 for a 10:57 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 529 and an average heart rate of 142 bpm at a temp of 47 degrees and 92 percent humidity. Looking to the Lord for strength and thanking Him for His goodness!

Moving Along

I guess a new pair of shoes can make a big difference. My pace has improved greatly since I switched to a new pair of workout shoes. I woke up like usual first looking into the Word for guidance. The thpughts of all the horrible family things that I have experienced haunt me every morning. It feels as if I am living in a bad dream and that’s not discounting all the blessings that I experience. Today I did the Randall Loop doing 9.28 miles in 2:00:28 for a 12:58 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 165 feet with an average heart rate of 120 bpm at a temperature of 42 degrees and 75 % humidity. This has been the week of being a little bit behind, it’s annoying. Lord I’m in need of you! God Bless!

New Sneakers New Speed

A good day yesterday with a Red Sox win in the World Series game 1 and a win in court. I decided to get my new sneakers out 3 days earlier than planned. My body just felt dead and I attribute that to my running shoes. So I pulled put my new North Face with brand new insoles for my morning workout. I did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.28 miles in 2:01:28 for a 13:05 minute per mile pace with an average heart rate of 117 bpm with an elevation gain of 371 feet at a temp of 46 degrees. My legs felt alive wearing my new shoes. My knees start to ache when my shoes lose their support. I figured 3 days early is ok to stave off injury. Off to work — God Bless!

Court Tuesday

In the middle of trying to get a protection order against my daughter’s boyfriend. Anyway, this morning I got out later and did the Ridge Loop— the first time in awhile. It was cool and overcast. The traffic was heavier as I got out later. I did 9.42 miles in 2:11:34 for a 13:58 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 187 feet with an average heart rate of 112 bpm at a temp of 42 degrees and 91 percent humidity. I was felt like cutting it short and laying on the couch, but I knew that if I kept putting one foot in front of the other I could finish. Have a blessed day! Here in family court in Central Islip. Looking forward to Bible study tonight!

Friday/Sunday

Figure 8 extra plus- 9.11 miles in 1:54:36 for a 12:35 minute per mile pace at an elevation gain of 180 feet with an average heartrate of 118 bpm at s temperature of 36 degrees and 74 percent humidity. Today I did 7.43 miles in 1:24:37 for an 11:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 541 feet with an average heart rate of 139 bpm.at a temperature of 47 degrees and 70 percent humidity.Two good workouts. I’m very blessed. Included more thsn usual jogging. God bless and good night !

My Element

It seems that this is the year where we went directly from hot and humid to jacket weather. Other folks are complaining about the cold , but I feel like I am coming alive in this weather. Last night my wife and I attended a movie, which I slept a good portion of as I was very tired and apparently very comfortable. This morning I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 9.03 miles in 1:58:19 for a 13:06 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 183 feet and an average heart rate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 44 degrees at a very comfortable 52 percent humidity. My spirit was light and cheerful as I plauded along the early morning streets. Have a blessed day!

Cool 9

The weather was decidedly cooler today with a temperature of 44 degrees at 79 percent humidity. I headed out at exactly the same time as yesterday, but today I did the Randall extra plus loop doong 9.19 miles in 2:00:54 for a 13:09 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 189 feet with an average heartrate of 117 bpm. It was a brisk , but bright morning. So blessed to be training in such a beautiful climate. Had to mix in some jogging to keep the pace respectable. Have a blessed day!

Fall-Like

I was tired when waking up, after a long day yesterday. My coffee provided the little bit of revival that I needed to get out the door. I did the Medford/Randall/Woodlot Loop doing 8.81 in 2:03:05 for a 13:58 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 198 feet with an average heart rate of 134 bpm at a temperature of 56 degrees at 57 percent humidity. Stuff to do . God is good !

A Mixed Bag

I didn’t go to sleep until I knew the results of the Patriots and Red Sox games. Thankfully, they both won. This morning I hit the Longwood, Scenic Hilla, Medford Loop at a not terrible time. I did 9.15 miles in 2:06:24 for a 13:48 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 358 feet with a resting heart rate of 112 bpm at a temp of 48 degrees and 78 percent humidity even though it was drizzling. I had another slow commute day. My laptop is in my car which is back home since Jace is doing my breaks. Looking to you Oh Lord! Praying for my daughter Rebekah as she has a job interview today!

Stubborn Fool

I woke up and noticed the rain coming down incessantly. I decided to brave the elements, but the rain increased in intensity. I was soaked and I kept walking through deep mud puddles. I was tempted to cut things short, but I was just too stubborn to stop. I did the Randall Loop soing approximately 9 miles in appreciate 2 hours. My watch stopped after 5.36 miles at a slow 14:28 minute per mile pace. I ran the majority of the remaining distance and made it home in good season. My commute was slow, but I made it. Glad the weather is better now and feeling fall-like. My weight was up today after being down yesterday . I need to stay consistent. Have a blessed day!

Tired but Moving

I woke up at my usual time and read my Bible. I was not 100% with it, but God’s Spirit is at work. I got out a couple minutes later than I wanted. My ace has been slow so I have had to do some jogging to keep it respectable. I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot loop doing 8.66 miles in 1:56:29 for a 13:27 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 198 feet with an average pulse of 120 bpm at a temp of 70 degrees and 95 percent humidity. It was very dark with cloud cover blocking any sort of light coming from the sky. The commute has been a pain rhis year. A little tired , but this is my easiest day. Had a nice conversation with my brother. So glad that we decided to make a commoto keep in touch. Have a blessed day!

Red Sox 4 Yankees 3

I had a shorter night’s rest as I stayed up until the end of the Red Sox game where the Red Sox beat the Yankees 3-1 in the divisional series. This morning I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 8.81 miles in 2:01:58 for a 13:50 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 197 feet with an average heart rate of 112 bpm at a temp of 68 degrees and 100 percent humidity. My body weight was down to 194 pounds. My blood work came back and I have to go back in another month to check my thyroid. It seems as if my thyroid is under active. Anyway, looks like blood being drawn will be a
way of life. This route is also quiet and peaceful. I had a good time at Bible Study last night. Keep Him first!

Routine

I woke up at my usual time to do my new standard loop the figure 8 extra plus doing Woodlot backwards. I started out with slow splits so I had to include some jogging to get back in good time. The streets are black and empty making me feel peaceful. I work out, pray, and dream as I continue along the streets of Ridge in the early morning hours. Here are today’s stats- 9.02 miles in 2:00:42 for a 13:22 minute per mile walking pace with an elevation gain of 214 feet with an average heartrate of 119 bpm with the temp in the 60’s with cloud cover.  I was disappointed to see my bodyweight at 197.  Not being careful and eating out caught up with me. I will have to tighten up. Have a blessed day!

Overcast

I got out later as I was off from school, plus I had blood work at 9. I did the Longwood, Scenic Hills, Medford Loop doing 9.41 miles in 2:12:55 for a 14:07 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 340 feet with an average heart rate of 115 bpm at a temperature of 62 degrees and 97 percent humidity. I felt pretty good. It was food not being rushed in the morning. Now we are heading to Montauk Lord willing. God is good!

Sunday Surprise

I decided to do something as I was very sedentary yesterday. I decided on the Greenway Trail even though I knew that I would have to do something to pick the pace up given the amount of time allotted. So I race walked most of the trail making my customary stop at Starbucks to get my Nitro Cold Brew. I also ran some on the way back in order to stay ahead of a runner. I did 7.56 miles in 1:33:22 for a 12:21 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 502 feet with an average heartrate of 137 bpm at a temp of 70 degrees and 95 percent humidity. What started out as an afterthought turned into a decent workout. Blood drawn tomorrow. God Bless!

Ridge Road Again

I took the day off from work as I am heading to Alfred State with my wife to attend parent weekend. I got out a bit later as I watched the Patriots play the Colts in Thursday night football. I did 9.5 in 2:13:16 for a 14:01 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 146 feet with an average heart rate of 114 bpm at a temperature of 62 degrees and humidity at 84 percent. Kind of slow , but it didn’t matter. I did 5 sets of squats this morning. Over halfway now, at a local diner a few miles back. Have a blessed day!

Doing Alright

I got out the door in good season, but my walking pace has been off. To compensate I did some interpersped jogging. The result was a good average workout. At least my body weight is down and my bench press and chin-up reps are up. I did the figure eight extra plus doing the Woodlot loop in reverse. I like this loop as it offers the least traffic . Here are the final stats- 9.06 in 2:01:23 for a 13:24 minute per mile with an elevation gain of 178 feet with an average heartrate of 119 bpm at a temp of 64 bpm and 91 percent humidity. Had a nice 2 mile walk with my wife at dusk at Wertheim. God Bless!

Tuesday/Wednesday

I did 9.04 miles in 2:05:27 for a 13:52 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 169 feet and an average heart rate of 108 bpm at a temp of 66 degrees and humidity at 99 percent. Today I did 9.04 miles in 1:59:56 for a 13:15 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 169 feet and an average heart rate of 123 bpm at a temperature of 64 degrees and 96 percent humidity. I did the figure 8 extra plus doing the Woodlot in reverse. I’m really liking this loop. God Bless! Good to have Charlotte home!

Interrupted Sleep....

but God saw me through. I had a good weekend with my daughters and granddaughters. God had me here for a purpose. My daughter’s evil ex boyfriend called her by some anonymous snap chat account and told her that he would publicly release private conversations and kill her boyfriend. Needless to say she was shaken up. This kept me up for an hour , but thankfully I was able to get back to sleep. I decided on the figure 8 extra plus after reading my Bible. I like the quietness of this loop,and I have been reversing the direction of the Woodlot Loop so that I end on a quiet note instead of passing through Middle Country. Here are the stats -8.85 miles in 2:03:05 for a 13:54 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 162 feet and an average heart rate of 114 bpm at a temperature of 58 degrees and 93 percent humidity. I met my movement goal yesterday mainly because I walked up and down the street until I met the goal. Looking to the Lord for His guidance! God bless! I think Charlotte will be back tomorrow from Hawaii.

Two days / Two Workouts

I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 9.12 miles in 2:04:36 for a 13:39 minute per mile pace with an average heartrate of 108 bpm. The elevation gain didn’t register and neither did the temperature. It was pouring rain at times making me consider shortening the workout. When I finished I was glad that I finished and pleased with the pace considering I did 3 sets of squats the night before. I watched a movie in Ronkonkoma with Rebekah. Today I hiked the Greenway trail doing 9.81 miles in 2:44:30 for a 16:45 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 626 feet at a temp of 54 degrees with 100 percent humidity and a pulse of 100 bpm. Char did her first wedding last night in Hawaii. Very nice! God Bless !

So Slow Even With Joe

I had the day off yesterday as I had to take Charlotte to her friends to go the airport—- now in Hawaii. This morning I did the figure 8 Randall combo loop doing 9.01 miles in 2:09:46 for a 14:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 165 feet with an average heart rate of 111 bpm at a comfortable 62 degrees and 65 percent humidity. It was nice to have a beautiful morning. God bless!

Rain , but I like it!

I got out a bit later, so I did the Medford/Randall/Woodlot Loop doing 8.97 miles in 1:57:53 for a 13:08 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 202 feet with an average heart rate of 126 bpm at a temp of 59 degrees with 84 percent humidity. As the workout progressed the rain increased, yet it was never a soaking rain. My first day in long sleeves. Had to stop off at the game preserve restroom. Have a blessed day!

Lonely Monday

I was all alone in the house last night. I couldn’t quickly fall asleep, but it wasn’t too bad. I find that I do not cherish being alone at home. I am comfortable by myself, but I’m finding that I prefer having somebody home. I have enjoyed the change in air with fall now officially here. I did the Longwood Loop doing 9.19 miles in 2:02:31 for a 13:19 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 320 feet and an average heart rate of 111 bpm at a comfortable 57 degrees with 90 percent humidity. My wife is at a conference today and Lord willing will be here tonight— leaving again on Wednesday. Have a blessed day!

Two on Sunday

I decided on doing two hikes on this Lord’s Day. This morning I did 3 miles down in Wertheim before watching my wife Charlotte speak in church. This afternoon I did 7:55 miles in approximately 2:05 for approval a 17 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 550 feet with an average heartrate of 102 bpm at a comfortable 65 degrees and 69 percent humidity. My wife is going to be gone for the best part of the next 10 days between Lancaster, PA and Hawaii. Looking forward to what God’s going to do. Have a blessed day!

Not Quite Right

It seems as if my routines are having constant minor interruptions which is putting me back a bit. Fortunately, my commute was quick. Today I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 8.69 in 2:02:04 for a 14:02 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 202 feet with an average heart rate of 144 bpm at a comfortable temp of 63 degrees and 88 percent humidity. Last night the Red Sox clinched the AL East division over the Yankees at the stadium and their Browns won their first game in years with Baker Mayfield coming off the bench to beat the Jets. Have a blessed day!

Better Going

I kind of got out in the inbetween time, but I opted to go the longer Longwood Loop doing 9.15 miles in 2:03:37 for a 13:30 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 330 feet with an average heartrate of 118 bpm at a comfortable 60 degrees and 83 percent humidity on a dark overcast Thursday morning. Fortunately, I found my headlamp for my hat which helped immensely in the dark segments of the workout. Have a blessed day!

Kinda Tired

I had a long day yesterday teaching, open house, and Bible Study. I did the Greenway Trail seeing quite a bit of traffic. I saw a homeless man on a bike with a child seat. He looked not quite right and he must have detected my stare as he looked at me and said “bye, bye, bye”. It reminded me of In Sync. He irritated me with his rude behavior, but I was concerned that he might be high. I noticed more homeless people and not the type that you feel comfortable with. For the workout I did 9.83 miles in 2:47:47 for a 17:03 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 566 feet with an average heart rate of 106 bpm at a temperature of 70 degrees and 93 percent humidity. I am waiting for the humidity to dissipate as it is so uncomfortable. I started out under 15 minutes for the first mile and then sort of tailed off. I had a maple latte at Starbucks. Back to school tomorrow after Yom Kippor today. God bless!

Before the Storm

I did the same Medford/Randall/Woodlot Loop again. I encountered some fog and some brief showers. The air was humid, warm, and uncomfortable. Fortunately there was a nice breeze to help make it bearable. I did 8.9 miles in 2:01:42 for a 13:40 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 201 feet with an average heartate of 118 bpm with a temperature of 75 and humidity at 90. Fall I want you to come soon. Have a blessed day!

First Monday

Even though I have been going to the school with the kids for two weeks , this is our first Monday with the students. I woke up at my usual time, but I didn’t get out as early as I wanted so I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 8.73 miles in 2:02:03 for a 13:58 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 172 feet with an average heart rate of 139 bpm. with a temperature of 62 degrees with humidity at an annoying 97 percent. I saw one runner on Randall Road( Shoreham) running with  a flashlight in hand. I’m glad that I made the decision to do the shorter route as my pace has been slower lately. Have a blessed day!’n

Greenway/Wertheim

A couple of active recovery days mainly because I’m able to thankfully. On Saturday I noticed a lot of homeless people near the Port Jefferson side of the trail. A veteran in a wheelchair, a lady coming off a hangover, and a guy sleeping on a bench with a half drunk big bottle of beer and a shirt draped over his head.  I saw my friend Lenny and Ruth near the start of the trail. Further on I saw fellow church goers Brian, Brenna, Brian’s wife , and Brenna(Jace’s girlfriend). I also met a guy named Mike who was beginning a walking routine who I met a couple of times on the trailbefore walking
with him starting at the beginning of the East Setauket side. I did 8.52 miles in 2:14:39 for a 15:47 minute per mile walking pace with an elevation gain of 555 feet with an average heartrate of 100 bpm. at a temperature of 68 degrees at 91 percent humidity.  Today I did 5.3 miles with an elvation gain of 193 feet with an average heartrate of 92 bpm. My watch was on for part of my commute home so my minutes per mile was not accurate. It was a warm somewhat humid day at Wertheim. I picked up a pair of glasses and left them at the beginning of the trail. I saw a turtle at the beginning of the trail. Looking forward to another week. God bless!

Peaceful

I wome up a few minutes later, got to work 1 minute late— but each could have been worse. My watch alarm didn’t go off because it was paused by the Stand function. Luckily I woke up from a dream that I could fly in. I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 8.95 miles in 2:01:03 for a 13:31 minute per mile pace with an average heart rate of 109 bpm at a comfortable 68 cloudy degrees. Even though it’s not cold out there is a change in the air that feels of fall. Fall for many reasons is my favorite season bringing back memories of coaching soccer and cross country. My favorite days as a teacher are in the past it seems with no visible hope of ever returning to those days. I am grateful for what I have and have faith in God and His plan— but there is that part of me that so misses those days at BRS and Easport. I don’t think anybody from Ling Island or my wife’s family could think that life in small town Maine has a charm that goes beyond the convenience and affluence of Long Island. God use me I pray!

Stumbling Along

I got out early after an arduous day yesterday, but the early start could not overcome the slow pace. In fact I had the throw a few runs in at the end to keep a complete debacle at bay. The drizzle and breeze felt could at a comfortable 68 degrees. Here are the stats for the Ridge, Longwood Loop—9.39 miles in 2:11:21 for a 13:59 minute per mile pace with an average heartrate of 103 bpm. I do not have a fanny pac that can hold my iPhone 8x so no elevation gain or temp or humidity. Have a blessed day my friends.

Longwood Bound

It was back to the normal early morning schedule with an early wake-up. I got out the door around 4:16 am heading towards Middle Country. I felt ok with the usual stiffness, but feeling ok otherwise. It was a dark foggy morning. Here are the stats- 9.37 miles in 2:03:52 for a 13:12 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 294 feet with an average heart rate of 117 bpm with a temp of 71 degrees at 100 % humidity. Off to class! God bless you!

Day 2 on The Greenway Trail

I woke up at about the same time as yesterday on a drizzly Tuesday morning. I’m taking advantage of the extra time ro sleep and workout. There were more people out today with warmer temps and no rain. I started out with my rain jacket, but quickly shed it with the warmer temps and humidity.  I listened to Dr. Charles Stanley on podcast getting built up in the faith as I travel along. Here are the stats— 10.01 in 2:48:07 for a 16:47 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 597 feet with an average heart rate of 102 bpm at a temp of 67 degrees and 100 % humidity. I am blessed to get the work in once again. Praise God! Remembering those who gave it all 17 years ago on this 9/11!

Greenway Groove

I allowed myself to sleep in and start out on the Greenway Trail. I could afford this trip due to the Jewish holiday. The rain was light , but steady. Not many people out when the weather is bad. I did 10.03 miles in 2:59:28 for a 17:53 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 656 feet with an average heartrate of 108 bpm at a comfortable 61 degrees at 93 percent humidity. I had a blended cold brew and a pumpkin scone at Starbucks. It was a nice morning. Have a blessed day!

Change in Plans

My trip to Maine is cancelled. I am so disappointed, bit for the safety of my family I have to stay. Today I did the figure 8 extra plus doing 8.82 miles in 1:57:08!for a 13:16 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 146 feet with an average heartrate of 113 bpm at a temp of 70 degrees with 100% humidity. Have a blessed day!

Split Personality

My morning has following the following pattern- Behind/Ahead, Behind /Ahead. On my workout the first 4 plus miles were really slow. So the final 4 plus miles I interspersed jogging and walking. Going to work I got late, but made it on time for work. I did the Randall Road loop doing 9.21 miles in 1:59:55 for a 13:00 minute per mile walking pace with an elevation gain of 172 feet with an average heartrate of 117 bpm. at a temperature of 75 degrees at 95 percent humidity. Each morning I think to myself about how much I hate the heat. Lord willing I am looking forward to a cooler workout tomorrow with three workouts in Downeast Maine. God is good ! God Bless!

Just Go

I tend to be a very reflective person, but reflection requires time and can slow you down. So I just went through my routine without much thought. I did make it out the door a bit earlier for the Longwood Loop doing 9.24 miles in 2:07:26 for a 13:47 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 306 feet with an average heartrate of 110 bpm at a temperature of 71 degrees at 98 percent humidity.  It’s amazing how at the early morning hour the streets are empty and you can walk about with little concern. I didn’t jog at all today as the running yesterday made my knees hurt. On another note I was one minute late at work— annoying as the landscaping trucks in the Roosevelt area can slow you down. Have a blessed day!

Up and Adam

 Today marked the first day of the school year with students. Today also marks my 32 year of teaching. This is also the second longest teaching job that I have had. I woke up at 3 with lots on my mind. I trued to fall back asleep, but sleep escaped me. I took time to reflect and pray and eventually to read the Bible. I got out in good season although not as early as I wanted. I did the Longwood Loop the school addition minus the little extra that I do in the summer. Here are the stats— 9.21 miles in 2:06:13 for a 13:41 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 312 feet with an average heartrate of 114 bpm. at a temperature of 74 degrees at a sultry 98 % humidity. I’m reminded that it takes a longer time than you think to get things done. On the positive— I made it to work on time. Have a blessed day!

Wertheim/Longwood

Sunday I did Wertheim doing 7.38 miles in 2:20:50 for a 19:03 minutes per mile pace with an elevation gain of 84 feet with an average heartrate of 90 bpm. at a temp of 65 degrees with 90 percent humidity. It was a lovely morning with plenty of beauty. Today I did 9.43 miles in 2:11:37 for a 13:57 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 327 feet with an average heartrate of 109 bpm at a 97 % humidity at 73 degrees. A lot of additional issues right now. The Lord is near! Tomorrow back to my early start time once again. The streets will belong to Eric once again:) God Bless!

It’s Hard to Sleep During a Sleep Test

  Last night I had to put a monitor around my upper lip, around my chest, and on my finger while wearing the device on my wrist. This device is used to determine if I have sleep apnea or not. I can only say that I was marking time in getting the minimum 5-6 hours of sleep in. I woke up several times and found it difficult to sleep with wires on you. It’s a home kit prescribed by my doctor. Anyway, today I am tired but that didn’t stop me from doing the Greenway trail. I did 9.75 in 2:48:34 for a 17:17 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 611 feet with an average heartrate of 94 bpm at a temperature of 67 degrees at 80 % humidity with a few drops of drizzle here and there. I saw my friends Lenny and Ruth at the East Setauket end parking lot. We talked for about 15 minutes and then parted our own separate ways. Thankfully the weather was pleasant and the walk was enjoyable even though I was kind of tired. Right now enjoying my back deck while my neighbor Kevin has his Labor Day party. Have a blessed day. Lord willing next week at this time I will be in Eastport. God Bless!

Irritated But Grateful

I decided on doing the Medford,Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 9.09 miles in 2:11 for a 14:24 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 155 feet with an average heartrate of 105 bpm at a somewhat breezy 71 degrees at a more humane 83% humidity. Flies, allergies, and fatigue making for a slow week pace wise.  All the same I am grateful for the ability to get the work in.  Yesterday there was a lot of rushing around to go places and get things done. We are at the beginning of two long weekends.  I am so grateful to get lodging for all three night's next weekend with The Pirate Festival in town.  Tonight we have family fun night at the church and I take my sleep test at home.Good things to look forward to.  Asking for the Lord to guard these plans and use them. Amen!

Check It Off

  I am grateful to get the workouts in even when I am far off my best,  Blackflies, horseflies, sinus headache, stiff neck, tired legs, heat, and humidity all working in the wrong direction.  I am glad that my knee wasn't acting up.  I did the Woodlot/Randall Loop doing 9.56 miles in 2:20:02 for a 14:38 minute per mile walking pace with an elevation gain of 131 feet and an average heartrate of 107 bmp at an uncomfortable 78 degree temperature with humidity at 92 percent. My portable water bottles have made the workout bearable. I'm looking forward to the fall!! God bless you!

Getting It Done

  I was feeling it in my legs, my knee, and I was feeling the heat and humidity all over.  I have been doing my squats at the beginning of the week so that I have one day of only walking.  I once again did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop.  The water bottles have been a mainstay for most of this summer.  They have been doing road work on Ridge Road which is long overdue.  I saw one other person today walking on Medford.  I did 9.37 miles in 2:15:44 for a 14:28 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 309 feet with an average heartrate of 113 bpm.  In another week I will have to be out on the roads an hour earlier which will mean early wake-up times, but I will have the roads all to myself. The temp today was a warm 76 degrees at 98 % humidity. Have a very blessed day

Dreaming of Fall

I woke up five minutes earlier hoping to ease into my day with a little bit of a cushion. I woke up, had my DD toasted almond coffee, read my Bible then began my preparations for the workout. With the early temperature at 74 and the humidity high I opted again for my water belt. I did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.29 miles in 2:12:53 for a 14:17 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 320 feet and an average heartrate of 111 bpm at a temperature of 74 and 100 percent humidity. My sleep apnea test came in the male. I will most likely take it Friday night. I have a feeling an APAC or CPAC machine are in my future. Have a blessed day!

Warming Up

The humidity and the temperatures are rising. I decided to travel with my water bottles today. I woke up very tired , but quickly was able to get into performance mode after sipping my coffee and reading my Bible. I decided on doing the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.45 miles in 2:12:52 for a 14:03 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 316 feet with an average heartrate of 114 bpm at a temperature of 71 degrees and 98 % humidity. Nobody was on the streets save my neighbor Christine who walks her dog every morning. I was blessed to get a little note in my bag from my daughter Rebekah! Have a blessed day!

Spontaneous Sunday

This period of my life has involved a lot of change. There is something stirring in my heart, but I’m just not sure what it is. I know the Lord will help guide me in recognizing what I need to do. Today I was not planning on doing anything, but I decided to go out and do the 5 mile plus Brookhaven Park Trail.  It’s not the prettiest or the most interesting, but it is secluded and quiet. I put on plenty of bug apray to deter the ticks. I had a lot on my mind so this was as much about mental health as anything— plus the temperature was comfortable. Here are the stats 5.49 miles in 1:37:14 for a 17:42 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 161 feet with an average pulse of 93 bpm at a temperature of 59 degrees at 96 % humidity.  Weekends aren’t the hallelujah that they used to be, but I am grateful nonetheless. God Bless you!

A Pleasant Saturday Stroll

Charlotte had WW and a bridal shower so I decided to hit the Greenway trail with a gew extra twists and turns. There were a good number of folks out on the trail including many of the “regulars “. The temp was comfortable. I saw a deer with spikes near the beginning of the trail. Here are the stats 9.78 miles in 2:43:19 for a 16:41 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 617 feet with an average heartrate of 99 bpm at a temp of 61 degrees at 100 percent humidity.  I am blessed in so many ways! Thank you Lord!

Freaky Friday

 I did 9.30 miles in 2:08:38 for a 13:49 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 137 feet with an average heartrate of 139 bpm at a nice temp of 58 degrees and 98 percent humidity.

Day 2 on a Thursday

I woke up a little before my 4:30 alarm. I decided on doing the modified figure 8 , but doing Randall  instead of Woodlot. I did 9.07 in 2:10:18 for a pede14:21 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 150 feet with an and an average heartrate of 113  bpm at a temperature of at 95 percent humidity. Heading home from school soon! God Bless!

Last/First

I was busy on Tuesday on Jace’s last day here and my last day of vacation. I woke up early as I was anxious slightly to get my blood test results. Thankfully I must curb a few things lose a few pounds and most likely at some point go on thyroid medication. God is truly good! On Tuesday I did 9.34 miles in 2;08:14 for a 13:43 min per mile pace with an elevation gain of 340 feet with an average heartrate of 118 bpm at a temperature of 61 degrees with 100 percent humidity. Today I did 9.51 miles in 2:12:17 for a 13:54 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 327 feet with an average heartrate of 117 bpm at a warmer 71 degrees at 100 percent humidity. I did the Longwood/Medford Loop both days. Char comes back today without Jace. It will be difficult for her I know. God Bless!

Drizzling on A Monday!

I headed out the door to my car on this my last opportunity of the summer to do the Greenway Trail for a weekly workout. I was welcomed by a heavy drizzle, but fortunately it didn’t soak me. There were very few people on the trail. Here are the stats of this my last vacation Monday— 10.02 in 2:53:21 for a 17:17 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 603 feet with an average heartrate of 100 bpm at a comfortable 67 degrees with 97 percent humidity. This is my step-son Jace’s last full day at home before school. Have a blessed day!

Fall of Humidity

Today my wife was out early because she was doing her father’s weight watcher groups. Roger the world traveler is off in Scotland visiting his former home. The man is away a lot, but my wife can be counted on to cover the church and WW groups. I did the Greenway Trail doing 9.7 miles in 2:47:56 for a leisurely 17:18 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 608 feet and an average heartrate of 101 bpm at a very humid 75 degrees at 96%. I cant wait for the chill in the air again. This summer has been extremely uncomfortable forcing me inside. I am so grateful to get on this beautiful trail regardless. Have a very blessed day!

Last Friday

I haven’t really given things much thought, but this is my last full week off from school. It has been a difficult summer in some ways that I won’t mention. I have been extremely lonely and spend most of my time alone doing housework. I felt like it was important to be home considering the things that have happened the past (8) years(s) to serve as a buffer. I have been able to visit my daughter Ericka and my granddaughters quite frequently which has been really good. It’s difficult to see your kids struggle and even harder when they don’t listen to advice that would help them.
   Dor the workout— 9.02 miles in 2:04:56 for a 13:50 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 154 feet qnd an average heartrate of 111 bpm at a temp of 72 degrees and humidity at 95 percent. I am blessed in so many ways and am grateful for the ability to workout. God Bless!

Back on the Trail

 I got to sleep late as our journey to Six Flags in New Jersey brought us back late. I decided to hot the Greenway Trail starting after 8. The temperature was up there but there was a breeze which made the traveling bearable. There were a few walkers one which forced me to pick my pace up. I ended up doing 9.84 miles in 2:44:12 for a 16:40 minute per mile with an elevation gain of 601 feet with an average heartrate of 108 bpm at a temperature of 79 degrees at 76% humidity. I saw a few turkeys including some chicks. I got a call from my doctor along the hike. We will be discussing the results on Tuesday. I guess middle age is catching up to me. God is good ! I trust Him!

Seeking Solitude in an Old Friend

  I have been dealing with a lot — not looking for sympathy— so I have been seeking routes that are quiet. I did the figure 8 extra plus . I did 9.03 miles in 2:07:22 for a 14:06 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 157 feet with an average heartrate of 113 bpm at a temperature of 69 degrees and 99 percent humidity. Heading out to Great Adventure with Ericka, Bekah, Jace,(girlfriend)Brennah, and Charlotte. Lord help us!

Through The Fire

My title does not describe my workout, but it does explain my life right now. I don’t want to get into details I just need prayer for my family. Today I did the Greenway Trail with some off trail additions totaling 9.77 miles in 2:41:05 for a 16:28 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 577 feet with an average pulse of 104 bpm at a temp of 76 degrees and 94 percent humidity. I went home and mowed the lawn and finished my weights and dealt with dramatics. Got out later as I got
back late from the Yankees game. God Bless you!

Dodging the Raindrops

The forecast has been for rain for the past several days. We have experienced torrential downpours. So with overcast skies overhead I headed down the Longwood Loop doing 9.45 miles in 2:10:32 for a 13:48 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 330 feet with an average heartrate of 120 bpm at a temperature of 71 degrees and 100% humidity. My hamstring held up alright with just minor issues which I dealt with by holding back on my pace. On a positive note the Lord helped me with something that I have been struggling with. He gave me the courage to see a doctor. I had been going regularly in Maine and had stopped since coming to New York. Thank you Lord for helping me. The msjor result is peace of heart and peace of mind. I’m going to a Yankees game tonight Lord willing. Hate the Yankees, but it will be fun to go to a game with a friend. Looking to the Lord for help with my family! Have a blessed day!

A Sleep Interrupted

I have to be honest, I’ve been on edge with a couple appointments today. I just wish my mind could tell my body to relax — but it doesn’t listen. My daughters were in and out throughout the night. Jace was the early bird at 12:03. I wokeup at 2 and was awake until at least 3:30. I think I fell asleep but I was awoken at 4:15. I just decide to get the workout in since I was awake and it was dark and comfortable outside. I did 10.03 miles in 2:14:21 for a 13:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 317 feet with an average heartrate of 119 bpm at a comfortable 67 degrees at a still crazy 97 percent humidity. Kimi back to Maine today. Looking to the Lord!

Slightly Better

I got to bed a little earlier and was up earlier. I decided on doing the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing the workout while cutting back on my intensity so as not to aggravate the right hamstring. I felt fairly positive as I did the workout. Here are the stats—9.45 miles in 2:12:32 for a 14:01 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 326 feet and an average heartrate of 117 bpm at a temperature of 74 degrees and 100% humidity. It was cloudy out as if it would rain, but it never did thankfully. Have a blessed day!

Soaked Through

I decided to do the Greenway trail plus some extra. I wanted to get a workout while at the same time taking pressure off from my hamstring. So I walked the trail as opposed to power walking. I think the hamstring issue goes way back to my anniversary day when I did my workout and then went on a long walk of 8 miles in the blazing sun on the beach. I think that started the hamstring issue which from time to time pops up. I like the solitude of this workout which is all off road but crosses several roads. I did an extra 1.5 miles going up Possum road.  I did 9.36 miles in 2:31:46 for a 16:11 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 565 feet with an average pulse of 102 bpm at a temp of 74 degrees and 99 percent humidity. I saw quite a few people out and about. I brought my alkaline water in one bottle and cold brew coffee in the other bottle. I saw a mother deer with a couple of fawns at the beginning of the loop. There were many deer including a couple of young bucks with velvet spikes. This was a good change of pace availability thanks to summer vacation. May God Bless you!

Feeling Beat in the Heat

I woke up and reluctantly headed out the door after reading my Bible. Here are the stats combined from two different readings thanks to a technology misfiring. I did 9.37 miles in 2:11:27 for a 14 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 148 feet with an average heartrate of 116 bpm at a very humid 78 degrees at 94 percent humidity. My water bottles filled with alkaline water is what is saving me. My right hamstring twinged slightly after putting in a sub 13 minute walking mile. I did the Ridge Loop. I saw a lady walking at a good clip heading out in the middle part of Ridge Road. I saw in passing after the turnaround. When I head back to school I will see noone out on the roads— only seldomly. There is a part of me that really likes the early morning workouts when it feels like I own the streets. Right now I am enjoying the sleep and not being rushed. Thank you Lord for your many blessings. Have a good day!

Change

First of all I did an active recovery workout yesterday on the Greenway Trail doing 7.51 miles in 2:00:57 for a 16:05 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 492 feet with an average pulse of 107 bpm at a temperature of 76 degrees at 84 percent humidity. I enjoyed a donut and trente size ice coffee at Starbucks at the midway point. I place my order on my phone and then pick it up in East Setauket and then turnaround and continue on my way down the trail with my treat. I then showered and picked up my daughters and granddaughters for church.
  Today I did my combination route starting out as if to do the figure 8 extra plus and finishing on the Randall Road loop doing 9.15 in 2:05:49 for a 13:44 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 160 feet with an average heartrate of 117 bpm at a temperature of 73 degrees and 99 percent humidity.  I did this route because I was feeling like I needed a change. Off to mow in this humidity. May God richly bless you! 

Reality

The hope of yesterday thankfully was carried over to today. Once again the conflict between being a spouse and being a parent are evident. Anyway— the humidity was once again rearing it’s ugly head. It’s no fun at all to be outside. The only redeeming quality is that there has been a nice breeze at times. Today I did the flat Ridge Road loop doing 9.61 miles in 2:11:18 for a 13:39 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 145 feet and an average heartrate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 76 degrees and 100 % humidity. I saw several walkers and a runner out on Ridge Road. I love this loop with it’s surroundings of trees and a big meadow. Not a bad week! God Bless you!

Contentment

Yesterday, I took a look back at some of my old blog posts— to reminisce and reevaluate. There was a stretch of about a year where I mentioned that I was tired about every day. I noticed that I get especially happy when training in Eastport. My parents house is the place of refuge where I can always go to feel grounded and supported. Here in Ridge is my normal for now. Ridge is so familiar with it’s variety of loops and workout routes. I often don’t have time to be reflective since strangely enough Maine is the place where my mind still seems to live. I get more reflective there in Maine. I’m learning to seek to enjoy where you are at the moment. To seek the beauty in whatever place you are at the time. Most importantly, I found that being positive and purposeful are keys to being joyful. God is always working in our lives to those who serve Jesus. Waiting for His answers can be difficult. Being faithful in prayer can be difficult, but the rewards are enormous.
 Now for the workout:) I did the Longwood Loop again doing 9.35 miles in 2:10:51 for a 13:59 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 301 feet and an average heartrate of 118 bpm at 77 degrees and 95 percent humidity. I was soaked today through and through with the intense humidity. I made it a point to just enjoy the workout. I allowed myself to be satisfied that I am power walking and not runner. The best thing with power walking is that my body can tolerate the workout without feeling beaten down. I mean the soreness and fatigue are there, but it is manageable. I’m grateful for today! God Bless!

Cloudy and Humid— First Day of August

I woke up after a good night’s sleep. I woke up around 5:15 and started on my cup of coffee. I then read my devotions before getting out of bed. I looked outside and noticed it had rained the night before. I then checked the forecast and was pleased that the rain was only supposed to be spotty. I went out the door and headed out the Longwood loop doing 9.35 miles in 2:07:51 for a 13:40 minutes per mile pace with an elevation gain of 333 feet with an average heartrate of 119 bpm at a temperature of 73 degrees with humidity at 100%. I was soaked through on arrival home due to the extreme humidity . It’s been a good start so far. Thank you Lotd for being a good Father!

Randall Ramble

  I woke up a little after 5 , but I slowly got around to my workout.  There has been a lot going on in my mind and my emotions, but I find myself working through this with the Lord’s help. Sometimes when things are boiling inside it’s God putting a fire inside to stir and clean things out. I was bothered by a couple of things,plus I had three cups of coffee making sleep fleeting until after midnight. Thankfully I had the energy to read my Bible and workout. Here are the stats: 9.43 miles in 2:06:35 for a 13:25 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 156 feet with an average pulse of 118 bpm at 63 degrees and 100 % humidity. Have a blessed day!

Greenway Trail

I got out later so I decided to hit the trail going from Port Jefferson to East Setauket. I went off the trail to add a mile and a half , but I ended up adding 3.5 miles. I did my Starbucks stop fueling up for the return trip. I enjoyed the workout and mowed the lawn and did the hedges when I returned home. Here are the stats for the day- 11.13 miles in 2:59:19 for a 16:06 minute per mile ace with an elevation gain of 637 feet with an average pulse of 104 bpm at a comfortable temperature. It was a
good workout. Thank you Jesus!  It is good being home.

Thursday-Friday-Saturday

Thursday-9.37 miles in 2:05:36 for a 13:24 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 329 feet with an average heartrate of 128 bpm at a 100% humidity 72 degrees in Ridge. On Friday I did 9.01 miles in 2:03:14 for a 13:40 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 857 feet with an average heartrate of 124 bpm at a temperature of 68 degrees in a foggy 100% humidity in hilly Hope. Today in my old home of Eastport I did 10.02 miles in 2:15:38 for a 13:31 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 680 feet with an average heartrate of 118 bpm at a temperature of 60 degrees and a foggy 100 % humidity. This place regardless of where I live will always be home. Love the peace and quiet of Maine! To God be the glory!

River Road— Going Flat

  Yesterday proved to be quite taxing doubling my move goal on my iPhone watch while hiking around Letchworth State Park and Niagara Falls along with my hilly workout. Today I went to the other side of the river doing Brookside and The River Road plus a few other excursions including crossing a few bridges. It was pouring rain for the most of the workout. I saw some beautiful farms and even a couple of Amish waving to one of them as they drove by. Here are the stats— 9.04 in 1:59:38 for a 13:13 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 183 feet and an average heartrate of 120 bpm at a temperature of 69 degrees and a rainy 100 % humidity. I’m glad that I changed my route up today. I loved working out in the country. This makes 5 workouts in a row outside of Ridge in rural settings 

Back to the Hills

Day number 2 in Western New York. I did the same workout as yesterday, but I turned right at the end of Madison Street instead of left. I headed out later so it was lighter out. This meant that I could see the steepness of the hills I climbed yesterday in the dark. We visited and hiked around Letchworth State park and now we are headed to Niagara Falls- Lord willing. I did 9.24 miles in 2:05:16 for a 13:33 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 1110 feet( the most I have recorded and climbed) with an average pulse of 124 bpm at a humid 70 degrees at 93 % humidity. Looking to the Lord to help me with some issues of struggle right now. He will help me!

Western New York Revisited

I am out in Wellsville, New York just a few miles from my old college. I was fortunate that I found a long secluded country road which climbed steadily to almost 1000 feet. I was surrounded by woods, birds singing, beautiful meadows, and empty roads. I did 9.03 miles in 2:01:14 for a 13:25 minute per mile pace with an elevation climb of 934 feet with an average pulse of 126 bpm at a temperature of 68 degrees and 97 percent humidity. I saw two spotted fawns on the way back. It’s beautiful country out here. Looking forward to two more days of country training Lord willing. God is good!

A Friday of Hope

Even though I was pressed for time I did not set my alarm. I woke up at 4:50 and drank my Irving coffee. I quickly got myself dressed for my workout and headed out the door. I did my usual Howe Hill , Barnestown Loop doing 9.18 miles in 1:56:26 for a 12:40 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 853 feet with an average pulse of 124 bpm at a temperature of 57 degrees with 80 percent humidity. I threw in a few sprints and runs to assure that I arrived in time to leave for my long  trip to the Bridgeport ferry! What an awesome week with three workouts in Maine. God Bless!

Perfect 10

I woke up at 4:50 am again this morning. The beautiful Downeast sun was inviting me to come outside and move about through the streets of Eastport. I drank my coffee and read my Bible, prayed and then went out to meet the morning. I decided to do the in town loop which covers several smaller loops with some additions— streets include Water,Adams, High, County Road, Dump Road, Estes Head, Brighten Ave, etc, etc. The stats pretty much mirrored yesterdays stats— here they are—10.02 miles in 2:11:27 for a 13:06 minute per mile pace with an elevation climb of 663 feet with an average pulse of 122 bpm at a comfortable 55 degrees and 79 % humidity. I had a great day of walks in 3 different towns with Katie and Keon. I enjoyed fellowshipping with friends from Cornerstone last night. I still feel such a part of this area! I think God still has work for me here. We’ll see how things work out. It would take a miracle to get me back here. Anyway, God is so good! God Bless!

Fog Man

I woke up just before 5 even though I got to bed late. Habits are difficult to break! I decided to do my out of town loop that includes Redoubt and Kendel’s Head and a trip through the village. I did 9.59 miles in 2:05:39 for a 13:05 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 550 feet with an average pulse of 129 bpm at a comfortable 59 degrees at 100 percent humidity.  Fog limited the usually beautiful scenery. My old job is available:) Looking forward to a day with my daughters and grandson. God is good! Lord willing do the intown loop !

Dog Days

It’s been very humid lately. To be honest, I have been taking advantage of the opportunity not to be outside in the heat of the day. I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot loop doing 9.21 miles in 2:05:52 doing a 13:39 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 183 feet with an average pulse of 118 bpm at a humid 96% 75 degrees. I have been escorted by horseflies during periods of my workout the last few weeks. I was feeling like I should have brought my water belt with me today as I was feeling thirsty at times during my workout. Possibly going to Maine today or possibly tomorrow. Looking forward to a change in scenery. God Bless you!

Good Monday

I woke up after an eventful weekend. So glad to Lord willing be taking my daughter to Maine tomorrow. God is good. Now it’s up to the Lord to work out some of the other issues and He will. I decided on doing the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop. I did 9.15 in 2:03:17 at a 13:28 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 331 feet with an average pulse of 124 bpm at a temperature of  69 degrees at 100 percent humidity. The hamstring was in decent shape and the pace was ok. Jace is home with a bad knee and Bekah is visiting with Ericka and the girls. Looking forward to tomorrow. God Bless!

Active Recovery on a Saturday

I woke up with the goal of going on the Greenway Trail after Charlotte left for Weight Watchers. I slept ok, but it wasn’t as restful with my wife taking a long time to go to sleep. I woke up being a bit tired but the webs got washed away by my coffee. The temp was a comfortable 69 degrees at 75 percent humidity. I did 8.01 miles in 2:06:34 for a 15:47 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 531 feet with an average pulse of 104 bpm. I saw different people on this very familiar route. The thing I like is how this trail includes plenty of climbs without being too crazy. There is a lot of variation which combined with the stop at Starbucks keeps the hike moving along. Today I am taking it easy spare a bit of strength work. Have a most blessed day!

Up and Adam

I woke up a little before 5 and felt like it would feel so good to go back to sleep. Quickly I remembered how good it feels to be home early and to have the workout completed. I decided on doing the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 9.11 miles in 1:54:58 for a 12:37 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 196 feet with an average pulse of 126 bpm at a temperature of 59 degrees at 99 percent humidity. It was a beautiful sunny morning with perfect conditions. I saw my friend Arlem approaching Randall from the south while I was approached it from the north. I decided to run as I didn’t want to get slowed down. Unfortunately in the morning I just kind of feel like staying in my own thoughts. Lord willing tomorrow I will be back on the Greenway trail soing active recovery. Have a blessed day! God is good!!!

Changing It Up

I had to take my step-son Jace to work so I decided to skip my early morning workout and head to the Greenway trail after I dropped him off at work. I added some distance on Possum road to get the distance to 9 plus miles. I don’t use my speed walking stride when I do the trail so it is just a natural walk. I didn’t mind the slower pace since my hamstring tightened up a bit at the end of yesterday’s workout. Here are the tales of the tape- 9.14 miles in 2:27:37 for a 16:08 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 557 feet with an average pulse of 99 bpm at a temperature of 68 degrees and a dry 64 percent humidity level. As always you see people some walking some running at various paces on the trail.  The stop at Starbucks at the turnaround is always the high point of the hike. The scenery is beautiful with wildlife spottings frequently occurring. I found out that Dale Lincoln passed away today. Dale made life better and certainly more interesting. I went on a walk at the Wertheim Wildlife Refuge just because after lunch. Have a blessed day!

Doing Better!

I got out the door a few minutes early due to a service appointment for our dryer. I did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop. I saw two young lady runnners out training. They look to be good runners. In the summer with my later start times I see more other people training. I did 9.52 miles in 2:09:58 for a 13:38 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 323 feet and an average heartrate of of 115 bpm at a temporary of 69 degrees and humidity at 94 percent.  My pace was better today and for the first 5 miles my hamstring felt perfect. The last 4.5 miles I felt a bit of tightness, but not any discomfort.  I will continue to monitor the hamstring.  I just
Cut back on my pace when I feel a twinge. Looking forward to what God has in store. God Bless!

Donavin’s Miracle

One of my former students has been struggling with his belief in God since his son has struggled with a defective heart. Well yesterday Donavin got his heart and his father Brian got his answer from God. This morning my hamstring felt better even though the ace didn’t indicate anything. Perhaps the squats played a factor. The tales of the tape— 9.28 in 2:11:12 for a 14:08 minute per mile psce with an elevation gain of 163 feet with an average pulse of 113 bpm. The temp was in the mid 60’s. Time
get stiff done. God Bless !

Sunday/Monday

Sunday was what I would like to say was an active recovery workout on The Greenway Trail doing 7.59 miles in 1:59:46 for a 15:45 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 518 feet with an average pulse of 110 bpm at a temp of 65 degrees and 78 percent humidity. I got a coconut milk caramel macchiato and a strawberry scone at Starbucks at the turnaround point. It was a fairly quiet morning with a few if the regulars present. Charlotte left early dor church so I wide awake decided to do the Greenway trail- glad I did. This morning I did race walking again and noticed that the hamstring although still not 100% , but I was able to slowly get through the workout without it tightening up.  From time to time I would pick the pace up but keeping it under control. I did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.22 miles in 2:10:35 for a 14:09 minute per mile pace  with an elevation gain of 359 feet with an average pulse of 135 bpm at a temperature of 57 degrees. I am grateful that the hamstring held up but more important my daughter Rebekah came home last night. Thank you Lord for your many blessings! Looking forward to God to do what only he can do!

Thursday/Friday

It has been so hot and humid this past week.  Yesterday I did the Scenic Hills, Longwood, Medford Loop doing 9.31 in 2:10:55 for a 14:02 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 329 feet with an average pulse of 116 bpm at a temp of 73 degrees and 100 percent humidity. I noticed the last couple of miles a tightness in my right outer hamstring. I jogged in the last mile since the speed walking seemed to irritate it.  This morning I decided to do the Port Jefferson East Setauket hike as I wanted to workout at a normal walking gate to lessen the strain on my hamstring. The hike was warm and muggy, but the hamstring was fine. Not nearly so many people at 6 am in the morning. It was funny as I noticed a couple of African-American women making believe they were stretching to warm up for a workout. They had their personal belongings on the bench and the strong smell of weed blowing in my direction. I said “Morning “ and walked along. I did 8.14 miles in 2:09:49 for a 15:55 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 551 feet with an average pulse of 103 bpm at 77 degrees and 90 percent humidity. A flash flood watch was in effect so I was glad to complete the workout dry except from sweat. Off to pick Char up from Weight Watchers as she is teaching the group. God Bless and let's pray for each other because we sure do need prayer.

Hot Mama

I have been lacking in zeal, energy, and speed on my workouts since Monday and my long trip on the beach. Today I did the Medford, Randall, Woodlot Loop doing 9.04 in 2:10:06 for a 14:23 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 175 feet with an average pulse of 119 bpm at a temp of 74 degrees at 100 percent humidity with a dew point of 76. I felt like cutting this short, but knowing that this will be about all of my physical exertion for the day I survived through. I picked up a tick at some point and took it off my leg when I noticed it as I was driving. Off to a get-together. God Bless!

Forecast Pain

Yesterday proved to be very taxing. After doing my workout my wife and I put in a 3 hour hike on the beach with the worst footing available. To boot we also got lost. The worst of it was the terrible sunburn to go with the fatigue of treading sand for 3 hours. My workout today started ok, bit ended slowly as that was all that I had. I worked out without my shirt on to avoid chafing. The good news is that as the day progresses I am feeling a bit more human. 9.27 in 2:09:54 for a 14:00 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 303 feet with an average heartrate of 113 bpm at an early balmy 75 degrees and 99 percent humidity. On my way to the airport to get my in laws. God Bless!

Anniversary Workout

I did the Longwood Loop doing 9.5 in 2:10:14 for a 13:42 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 311 feet with an average heartrate of 111 bpm at a temperature of 71 degrees and 100 percent humidity. Have blessed day!

Friday on Randall

I woke up a bit later , but was eager to conclude my weekly workouts. My plantar fasciitis was acting up a bit, but as I proceded my foot was ok. I notice a twinge but it is bearable. It was a bit humid feeling, but at least in the early morning hour it is tolerable. I fid 9.73 miles in 2:10:02 for a 13:21 minute per mile pace with an elevation gain of 139 feet with an average heartrate of 120 bpm. The temp was 67 degrees and 100 percent humidity. Taking my daughter and granddaughters to the Suffolk County farm Lord willing. Have a blessed weekend.

Rainy and Warm

The first three miles were uneventful.  Average pace average feel, but then the rain came. At times it was a downpour and at other times it was a drizzle. Fortunately, I decided to do the Ridge Road Loop which is protected by trees in many places. Truthfully I was unmotivated, but I knew thst if I persevered I could complete the workout. I have tried to add a bit of distance to the summer workouts. This week has been kind of low key , but I have been able to get the workouts in. Char is busy preparing to speak this Sunday and has been doing her’s and mist of her father’s weight watchers. Have a blessed day!