Still alive

I can't believe it has been over a month since my last blog post...

FYI--we (Team Jogging Dead) all survived the PTC.  I say survived because we all encountered challenges along the way, yet we persevered and conquered.

I learned a lot about myself during those 46.2 miles and I learned a lot about the spirit of generosity. It was a FREE event and all aid stations were supplied by local business volunteers and their donations.  Random support crews for other teams offered water, Gatorade, pretzels, bananas, watermelon, etc.  Other runners offered me salt tabs, hydration drinks and motivation to keep pushing.  Plus friends and our own crew leapfrogged along with our group from St. Pete to Tarpon for over 12 hours!

I know humbly that I could not have made it without the support and encouragement of my team and crew!

Although I may not be able to personally thank all those who helped me accomplish the journey, I will continue to pay the hospitality forward!

Laurel and Jai'Lin deserve special medals as they spent the entire day jumping in and out of the 4Runner with coolers, chairs, food, as well as pouring water and ice into our packs and getting whatever we needed (every few miles).

Extraordinary gratitude goes out to Kim Stuart for following Wendy and I during a bad spell to ensure I cooled down and kept going.  Buffy, Laurel and her kids all treated me like an ER patient in Dunedin--placing a cool cloth on my neck and getting me food and drink "stat";)  I know I am biased when I say that nurses make the best crew!!!

Someone else of mention is my wife, who biked the final 18 miles with me.  These were not the "early excitement and energy at the start of the race" miles... these were dark times and the vows, "in sickness and in health" were tested that day.

It is not easy to watch your partner suffer and she managed to stay positive and keep me moving forward when every ounce of my body cried out to stop.  I am in debt to Wendy and Kim for getting me through those grim hours and Laurel for being there every step of the way!



The day after the race was a day of reflection and this quote came to mind:

The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.

-Thomas Paine

If anyone would have said something to this affect during the race, I may have tried to hurt them (remember, I was not in my right mind after 8 hours of running in the heat).  

However, a crazy smirk sneaks across my face today as I remember the last miles and crossing the finish line! The PTC was the hardest race I have ever faced.  It was not pretty or easy and some parts were downright miserable.  I am not sure I can explain but the struggles that day made the finish all the more sweeter.

I learned a lot about the human spirit that day--we are all stronger than we ever believe imaginable!

Why do You Run?

The question, "Why?" has come up recently when I  mention running the Pinellas Trail-all 46.2 glorious miles.  I am not sure I really have an answer but I saw some comical signs about long distance "ultra" running and thought I would share the humor.

I started running as a cheap, quick and easy way to exercise.  When I played sports, I actually hated running.  Typically, running was used as a punishment.  After college, without a group activity, I felt a little lost .  I remember seeing my neighbor running all the time; and I thought, I can do that!  I put on some shorts, a cotton t-shirt, some tennis shoes and took off. Training, pacing--what's that?!?  Full throttle out the door, I was huffing and puffing in no time. Hmmmmm, maybe I should slow down;)

I never thought of running as a sport back then.  It was something to do to relieve stress and burn calories.  I ran/jogged for several years before even hearing about "races".  Running was a track event in my young mind.

My first race was incredible.  I completely got caught up in the energy and excitement of the event!
I shot off the start line like a cheetah and quickly relearned my first running experience--slow down!  Muscle memory did not trigger my brain/body fast enough and I thought I lost a lung by mile 2.
Everything started to cramp and I was forced to slow.  Pride kept me pushing--I could not let people pass me now!
Needless, to say I was hooked.
Aaaaaahhhhhhhhhh--ignorance is bliss.

Of late, I have rediscovered my youthful bliss during PTC training runs.  I mentioned before about a "runner's high" but this euphoric state seems illusory.  However, I have found that when I run 2 hours or more, a peaceful calm occurs.  I am not saying my body and legs feel awesome or anything (most of the time something aches).

Yet in this timezone, there is a spiritual transcendence.
The journey typically happens when running solo but I have found myself in the realm during quiet periods of a group run and in races (most recently, the Disney Marathon).

It is a beautiful experience and replicable versus the runner's high. Maybe it is just my brain playing tricks on me... I am curious if others have found this nirvana?

Ultra races don't always have t-shirts or medals so why would you run all day?  There is no rhyme or reason.
Call me crazy and I will smile ear to ear:)

Shiny, happy people

Running on the Pinellas Trail is an experience like no other.  You never know what you will see or encounter.  Last weekend, my "Jogging Dead" partners (Cherry & Dawn) and I spent A LOT of time on the Pinellas Trail (7 hours per the Garmin).  We conquered 30 miles!  As usual, I get ahead of myself, so let me recap our travels:)

To spice things up, we decided to head down south on the trail.  We have run from the Publix at the Curlew/Dunedin Causeway intersection probably 100 times (I feel like I know every turn and landmark from Sunset Point road to Klosterman).  This is still a favorite spot but we needed a change of scenery, literally!  Using a run map app, I created a route to see some sights in the Largo/St. Pete area.

The original goal was to begin at Taylor Park and head south to Tyrone Mall.  There are city parks and water stops along the way as well as a Target and CVS.  As Saturday drew closer and we started to analyze the path, 16 miles one-way seemed kind of daunting.  Instead, we decided to begin the adventure at Walsingham Park and take advantage of Cherry's car/mobile aid station and bathrooms.

(shelter at Walsingham Park--aka "home base")

We began our journey around 8am and headed south.  Everything was new to D & C, including the park.  I used to live in Seminole and rode my bike on this part of the trail many times; however, there were new additions and many more people on the trail than in my past experiences.

It seemed like we came upon Seminole City Park fairly quickly which is a great rest stop, thanks to nice bathrooms, water and shade.  We had our CamelBaks and no need for a bathroom break yet so kept moving.  A couple of bikers in passing asked us if we happened to be on the Courtney Campbell Causeway a few weeks ago?  We were like, "Yeah, we were there!"  I guess our 3-pack stands out.  This has been a topic during our runs--hydration packs give off the vibe we are hard core runners--hahaha!  Maybe too it has something to do with "3" of us running; our merry little group?  Perhaps 3 really is "the magic number";)  Please tell me someone gets the De La Soul reference!?!  Whatever the cause for attention it was fun to share our story with this lady and her friends.  They rode along with us for a few yards, enough for us to fill them in on why they kept seeing us running all over the county and our goal to run the entire P-trail. They swore to look for us Sept. 5th!

Over the next few miles, bikers would call out, "good job, ladies", "great pace" and "keep it up"!  Random strangers giving us a shout out made me smile and gave me energy to keep pushing!  I took each cheer as a high five and faith in the kindness of humanity!

(view of Long Bayou near Bay Pines)

Around mile 7ish we did need to make a pit stop at Target.  FYI--the Target entrance is at the far end of the parking lot--for a quick stop go to CVS;)  We enjoyed some ice cold water and continued forward towards the mall.  This part of the trail can be sketchy and it had not changed much since my Seminole days!  We decided to continue on to Azalea Park for water and a bathroom in order to make the return journey without stopping (wishful optimism).  Mile 9 accomplished.

After a longer than anticipated stop (hidden bathrooms and water fountains that barely dribble) we were back on the trail.  Another feature of this area are all of the overpasses.  I think we ran up and over 4 just on the south tour (see pics below).  Compared to our typical northern routes from Curlew--this was hilly!

We got back into a rhythm and knocked out some miles.  Just after Target and an overpass, a guy pulled up by me and said, "Can I ask you a question?"  "Of course", I said and he asked, "I saw you girls as we rode north and now I'm seeing you girls again on the way home--are you running to Miami?"  I just cracked up.  I told him we were prepping to run the whole trail Sept. 5th and to make sure to come out that Saturday.  He waved and rolled on.

The KOA campground came into view and I wanted to stop to pour some water over my head (it was starting to heat up).  Dawn went in search of ice and Cherry to the vending/office.  Dawn needed a quarter for water and/or a couple of bucks for ice.  I only had a quarter left from my big Target shopping spree-water it was.  There was a nozzle only, so we held one of the packs underneath it.  Once D hit the button, the water shot out of the hose like a tsunami.  Her pack filled in seconds and then water kept gushing as I rushed to place mine under the stream.  Mine filled just as quickly with the water continuing to pour all over the concrete.  A few campers wandered by and I prayed the water would shut off.  Thankfully, it stopped but we discovered this crazy scene was anti climatic as the water was not cold at all:(  We still had 7 miles to go, the room temp. water would have to do.  We fastened up our packs and prepared to take off when Cherry strolled over carrying a gallon of water.  She was smiling ear to ear--she had ice cold water, only $1.86.  Say what?  I paid the same price for 16 ounces at Target!@#$%

We reluctantly dumped the water we just chaotically filled into our packs and all 3 took advantage of the cold stuff. The gallon was not empty so Dawn said she would carry it. Needless, to say we received a few looks as our 3-pack grew with the addition of the gallon jug.  We took turns lugging the quarter gallon around--what a sight!   I wish I had a picture of this ensemble.  We finished the water at Seminole Park and said goodbye to the plastic!

This was one of the first runs in awhile where the sun was out and not a threat of rain in sight.  We have been lucky in our last few outings with cloud cover and rain (sometimes light, sometimes not--but always better than melting sun).  Although the sun was out the humidity was not near as thick and we were moving along a half a mile at a time.

Close to our rendezvous point, we saw a lady pushing two small dogs in a stroller.  We passed this lady on our way out and as we neared she called out and asked, "Are you girls running the PTC?"  We couldn't believe we finally ran into someone else (her name is Karen) doing the run--yay!!!  Karen ran the past two editions and happily filled us in on race details.  She said there were only like 9 people the first year and maybe 20 or less the second year.  This year there are 129 entrants, 52 of which are female. Speaking with Karen was exciting and motivating!  We discussed our training on this particular day.  We shared that we were on a quest to accomplish 30 miles.  She said she was out for a "short" run.  I am pretty sure her definition of short is not typical because she mentioned that she just finished running the Florida Keys 100.  I think we all nearly dropped and I know my mouth hung open.  I stammered, "You just ran 100 miles?!?"  She casually went on about her struggles in the race but that she finished.  I just did a search for her results and she was the first female, 60-64 to finish--great job, Karen!  WOW!

We had to pull ourselves away or Karen would have kept us all day with her stories, but our quads, calves and hammies were locking up.  The incidental meet-up and mental break fueled our conversation for the next few miles.  We were almost back to the park when some guys on bikes yelled out, "Great pace girls."  I think we all laughed out loud since we felt like we were crawling.  Again an impromptu cheer made us smile and puff out our chests.  The guys asked how far we were going (I am telling you the packs give us street cred.)... when we said "30", one guy wobbled on his bike and nearly toppled over (dude--we feel ya)!  Good luck they cried and pedaled away.

Finally, we were back at the Cherry-aid station for some food, ice and Gatorade!  I took this opportunity to change clothes as my shorts and shirt were soaked--19 miles complete.  We did a loop around Walsingham Park which offered some shade and winding trails around the lake.

(north end of the park)

The loop was not as long as we hoped so we hit the car again--7 more miles!  This seemed like the never-ending run, but there was no stopping our little army!  Out the park and north we headed for this day's last excursion.  Dawn had a good stride and I fell into step behind her.  She said she caught a second wind.  I told her I was catching a second ride in the form of "drafting".  

From Wikipedia:

Drafting or slipstreaming is a technique where moving objects are caused to align in a close group reducing the overall effect of drag due to exploiting the lead object's slipstream.  Drafting is used to reduce wind resistance and is seen most commonly in bicycle racing, car racing, and speedskating, though drafting is occasionally used even in cross-country skiing, downhill skateboarding, and running. 

It was nice to let my head hang and just zone out for some miles.  At this point, we were all gutting it out.  Our conversation was quiet with just the sound of our feet hitting the pavement.  When we passed 26.2, Dawn energetically announced we had completed a marathon:)  I am pretty sure I mumbled something close to "yay".

With the passing of the next mile, D & C became official "ultra" runners.  Any distance longer than a marathon is considered an "ultra" race.  Typical ultra events include: 50Ks (32 miles), 50 miles, 100Ks (62 miles) and 100 milers.

We hit our final turnaround and could not move our legs fast enough--we were so ready to be DONE!  We continued to slug along when the two cyclists from before caught up to us right at the crest of the Ulmerton overpass. They were full of good cheer and offered us cold Gatorade--OMG--these guys were so nice!  Their generosity inspired us and gave our slow parade new life.  We kept our feet moving and saw the stoplight signaling  one mile to the park--it was like a vision of the "Pearly Gates"!  So, so close!

Cherry led our pack down the homestretch and we almost collapsed into the car--WE DID IT!

This run symbolized several milestones for the group, yet it was the simple altruism and camaraderie that punctuated the day!

Thank you fellow trail blazers!

To view our course:  30 mile map

3 Run Park Pass

Creative running... sometimes it is not easy to find a 5-6 hour time slot for a loooooooong run.  I know that sounds crazy but this is our last month of training for the Pinellas Trail Challenge 46 mile run.  We are not running for 5 pure hours, but it does take around that amount of time to cover 20 plus miles (which includes walking, bathroom breaks, nutrition and change of clothes stops:)  

Since May, my friends and I have been adding distance to our long runs each weekend.  According to my Garmin log, our first real distance run was 16 miles. From there we increased training runs to 17, 19, 22 and recently 25 miles. Next up, we have a 30 miler for this weekend--yipeeeeeee;)

To keep momentum for the big 3-0, I wanted to accomplish 25 or so miles this past weekend.  Small snag to this plan--Wendy's best friend, Kelly, was in town and of course we had to vacation with her;)  We had parasailing, kayaking, sunset cruising and so much more to do! 

 All photos courtesy of Kelly:)  Thank you for capturing our memories!

I prepped my wife that I planned to squeeze in a run when the opportunity presented itself.  Since a half a day was not possible, I formulated an alternate strategy--three 10 mile runs.  I have not had back-to-back-to-back long runs in forever.  Needless to say it was an adventure:)

Each run was extremely different with it's own set of challenges.  Following are my musings about this action-packed weekend!

Run#1: Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island

Seriously, is there a better place to run than next to the ocean with the sound of waves and birds to keep you company?  

Wendy and Kelly set a parasailing appointment for 1pm and we were all off to the beach to chill until "go" time:0  I used this opportunity to set out for an 8 miler (no time for 10, take what you can get;) 

It was a Friday; I was off work; I was at the beach; and it was a gorgeous, sunny day.  Bring it on--my mind and body exclaimed!  

My shoes hit the sand and my brain went on vacation along with the rest of me.  I forgot my iPod, which was probably a blessing in disguise, so I tuned in to the sights and sounds around.  The water was choppy so not much chance for a dolphin sighting. Instead my focus was on the immense beach stretched out in front of me.  Usually the ocean is lapping at your feet and a game of "catch me if you can" ensues.  FYI-I always lose this game and my feet get wet!  

Today the beach was super-wide.  As Pier 60 and civilization faded into the background, I noticed my footprints were the only ones on the coast.  What a treat--to be the pioneer steps on the pristine landscape!  Feeling like an explorer put a spring in my step and pushed me forward in search of gold (or the 4 mile turnaround in this case;)

It was an amazing journey to move from the hustle and bustle of Clearwater Beach to undisturbed grounds and rustic lands, to the ferry landing and tourists to then see the Dunedin Causeway and Honeymoon Island appear like a mirage in the distance.  I had reached my destination--time to doubleback!  

I was not thinking the return trip would be too eventful... was I ever wrong!  At the ferry landing, I stopped to refill my water bottle and ended up taking a mini shower--the heat was on!  It felt great to cool down and recharge for the final 3 miles.  I said goodbye to the tourists and was getting lost in the sand and ocean when the wind shifted. Nothing much but it pulled my attention to the west and an ominous line of dark clouds.

Hmmmmmmmmmmm, was this storm headed my way?? Hard to tell, but as I looked south to Clearwater, the sun was still shining.  I secretly felt bad for the tourists who just offloaded as rain was imminent at the park!  

I was not too worried but did try to pick up my pace!  My Garmin beeped and I was just 2 miles from lunchtime:)  The clouds still seemed far away and I kept chugging along enjoying the drop in temperature.  

Every once in a while I would glance to the sea and think, I got this. Then lighting struck--literally.  My first thought was, there goes the parasailing excursion.   

Beep--1 more mile.  "I think I can, I think I can" was my mantra. 

Suddenly, rain came at me sideways, pelting my exposed skin (which was 90% of my body considering it was 85 degrees when I began this escapade).  My race against the storm was over and it seemed the heavens gloated on this fact--the rain grew stronger and seriously felt like hail--WTH mother nature;)  I thought I picked up my pace before; however, I was now in a sprint to save the universe from total annihilation.  At least that is how I felt as I ran past honeymooners, vacationers and locales all caught off guard by this insane monsoon!

The condo tower where we entered the beach loomed up ahead and I hoped Wendy and Kelly made it to the car sans rain!  I turned up the access road when I heard people yelling, "Jill, Jill." Huddled under the condo parking garage were Wendy, Kelly and a few other couples who joined in the shouting/cheering of my name!  Looks like we were all humbled by the stealthy storm.

Well, it appears my words have rambled on about Run #1.  Next blog, I will recap Runs 2 & 3 - not quite as animated as this one but still worth the read;)

Enjoy each and every moment, you never know when the winds will change!

Life on the Run

Wow, August 3rd already - July was a whirlwind of friends, travel and family!  I have not had much time to put my legs up, sit and type but I would not trade a single, busy moment:) Last month was full of adventure and enlightening activities.

Quick recap:

I was finally able to hike in the Adirondack Mountains.  I have been begging Mrs. Bartlett to take me to see some of the sights the great state of New York has to offer and she fulfilled my wishes.  We did an amazing (and surprisingly tough) 4 mile, round trip hike up Blue Mountain.

(view from the fire tower at Blue Mt. summit)

Who knew 2 miles would have me sucking air?!?  I checked Wiki and there is an elevation gain of 1,559 feet to the summit.  Hmmmmmmmmmm, let's see... the last time I ran in Florida there was an elevation gain of 124 feet (and that is only because the route included an overpass which us Floridians call "hills").  Enough said, ha! 

This hike wet my appetite for the outdoors.  I want more!  It was scary and slippery and exhausting and breathtaking and an accomplishment all wrapped up in half a day.

Looking to my guides (Grube & Wendy) for more adventures next New York trip!

We also visited Chittenango Falls State Park which has an incredible waterfall. A beautiful, serene place which seems the perfect spot for a picnic--next time;)

So if the hike didn't test our legs and lungs enough; Wendy's bestie, Kelly invited us to her Method 360 class.  Holy moly, workout on crack!!!  We lunged, ran, jumped, lifted, punched, balanced, pulled, pushed and sucked more air:)  Sweat was flying and we were smiling (I think) most of the time!  Nothing says friendship like a shared stream of perspiration.

What a great start to our day and awesome to see a friend as motivated as us about pushing the limits of the body and mind!

I want to return and do the whole NY trip over again!!!

I was sure to have post traumatic trip depression were it not for a visit from my one and only nephew, Alec.  Alec was flying and staying with us for the first time.  I was so excited and nervous at the same time!  I was like a kid on Christmas Eve.  I was eager for Alec to explore Clearwater yet nervous about 3 dogs overwhelming him, enough food in the house for a teenager, and just being lame.

My nerves were washed away when his smiling face met us at the airport and the conversation flowed.  Gone was the boy I see twice a year (if I am lucky). With us in the car was a recent high school grad.--a smart, funny, sensitive, caring, considerate young man!

The dogs loved our new house guest and he loved them right back.  On day 1, the 3-pack broke Alec in to a "dog's life" with an excursion to the dog park and a dip in the ocean. Alec's presence was definitely a catalyst this day as Sugar swam for the first time (so proud of my 'lil baby:)

The typical Florida sunshine played hide and seek during Alec's visit but his disposition was always positive, not one complaint!  Although the weather was precarious, we managed to squeeze in two kayak excursions over the course of the week.

Alec's smile on the water was contagious and reignited my passion for paddling!  

We were the only two people out on the water and it felt as if we were the only two people in the world.  The water was smooth and calm, ideal paddling conditions!

One of Alec's first questions off the plane was, "can we see dolphins?"  I told him one way or another (with a sure fire secret weapon--Winter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium).  I was hoping not to use the Winter card, but after an hour of paddling we had yet to see anything.  So, we stopped our paddles and drifted for a bit.  

Sure enough when we became quiet and tuned in to nature, the ocean responded. First, we saw the wings of some stingray pop up and swim around us.  This roused our spirits and stimulated a healthy stingray discussion.  We sat still awhile longer to see mullet jump and ospreys perched on nautical signs.  However, the dolphins remained enigmatic.  

Reluctantly, we began the return trip paddle.  Alec zipped back in the kayak with his double sided paddle while I took my time on the stand up board.  I love the feeling of looking out over the water--it is serene and empowering.  This was another day I did not want to end.  I sat back down on my board for one last tête-à-tête with the ocean.  Just as I was about to head inland a pod of dolphins welcomed Alec to Florida.  Perfecto!

I wished we could have been on the water every day, but work and rain kept us hustling.  Alec was a trooper and amiably engaged in some valuable job shadow opportunities with me and Wendy.  At this point in time, it is safe to say, Alec does not want either of our jobs--LOL;)

Alec kept me company on a run as my bike partner and also made it through one of Coach Putulin's bootcamp/boxing classes with me.   

I enjoyed sharing my active lifestyle with Alec and really appreciated his company.  He never blew me off for his phone, texting or video games.  He involved himself in the moment and participated in every crazy event we tackled!

I hate to sit still but doing so allows me to reflect on these wonderful memories.  I cannot believe this all just happened less than 30 days ago!  I already had trouble recalling some facts and feel grateful to relive the experience via writing.

So many more stories and friends and events that took place in NY (i.e. Darren's high school graduation-big shout out to D for his perseverance) and FL; and still much more to explore...

Stay hungry my friends!

Just keep swimming

(photo courtesy http://www.kiwanismidnightrun.com/)

Friday night, July 3rd, my baby ran her fastest 5k in a few years.  It was the Kiwanis Midnight Run over the Dunedin Causeway.  Based on pre-race factors (such as two prior workouts, a self-defense class and a random dinner of rice, coffee and an expired Cliff bar) none of us (me, Wendy or Greene) were planning to set any personal records (PRs).  Oh yeah, and the race really is at midnight.  I am a night owl; Wendy is typically in the dark recesses of REM by 11pm; and I think Greene is somewhere in the middle and will have to weigh in on her typical sleep habits;)  

However, when the gun went off, so did Wendy Bartlett!!!  We three started the race together- bobbing and weaving through the masses of people, catching glimpses of each other, speeding up and slowing down, trying to get in a kind of groove together. Greene and I found some space and fell into a rhythm but Wendy was off the grid.  No worries, I thought, she likes to do her own thing. 

The first mile clicked off on my Garmin at 9:05.  Not bad with such a dense group at the start.  Also, Greene and I were running the 10k race (which follows the 5k conclusion) so we were not trying to kill it.  We chatted along joking about dinner and hoping neither of us saw it again while keeping an eye out for Wendy.  Both the 5k and 10k courses are "out and back" routes.  I kind of like an "out and back" course because you get to see and cheer for the race leaders as they fly by and look and cheer for your friends as well.  Bonus--people watching passes the time, deflects aches and pains and keeps dark thoughts away!  

Just after the turnaround my Garmin chirped notice of mile 2 and an 8:46 pace-whoa, faster than expected!  We were not sure about Wendy at this clip but then I thought I caught a glimpse of her smiley face bandana just ahead of us.  Trigger pulled - chase on - off to the finish. 

There were still quite a few racers on the street which kept us in a zig zag pattern until the final finisher chute.  Mile 3 beep signaled an 8:30 pace and Wendy was still a ghost. We both thought she was behind us.  As we crossed the line a smiley face bandana girl brought us water--say what?!?  Wendy was smiling ear to ear with a glow all around her.  She just crushed that race!  BAM!

It is a beautiful sight to see someone's hard work pay off and we were a witness that night. Congrats baby!  And a huge shout out to Greene for hanging with me and keeping the conversation flowing and my mind off running.  It was a gorgeous night and morning filled with surprises, friendship and harmony.  

Lace up friends, you never know what a race will bring:)

Cotton Candy Skies

Another beautiful night to run...

I was going to take a break from exercise Thursday night but I was feeling restless.  Tell me if any of you experience the same feeling, where your mind and body are telling you to rest yet you have this nervous energy and you know if you do not release it you are going to have a hard time focusing on anything (or sleeping later that night in my case)??

After debating with myself and knowing I would feel better afterwards, I took off at almost 8pm.  I was worried darkness would set in before I returned home but I was rewarded with an amazing spectrum of colors following sunset (see picture above).  Oops, I have gotten ahead of myself...

Although the end is the best part of this enterprise, it is hard to appreciate the evening's value without the full story.  I was moving along the sidewalk next to the road staring at all the cracks and remembering the last time I ran in the dark on this busted up walkway - I was not paying attention, legs and feet heavy near the end of a long run, when a crack caught my shoe and I went airborne.  I felt like a little kid, falling and skinning my knee less than a half mile from home, ha!  Anyway, this was several years ago and the sidewalk is still crumpled up like a mini earthquake ruptured.  Made me wonder when our tax dollars might fix this booby trap?!

As you can tell from the start of this venture, my mind was all over the place.  I was trying to control the stream of thoughts bombarding my brain and hone in on writing a nice Father's Day post.  My psyche had other ideas.  I have learned not to swim against my inner tide and let my spirit go with the flow.  In that moment of resolve, a quietness occurred.  I lifted my head and began to explore the street I have run probably 100 times.  It always amazes me how the time of day or running on the opposite side of the street can give a road a completely new appearance.  I noticed a pond in this subdivision I had never seen and was baffled at how I could have missed it over the years.

Running and thinking is a tricky endeavor.  I may start off running with thoughts of work overwhelming me or be on a quest for a solution to a problem or challenge. Other times, I try to distract myself with anything that comes to mind or be creative with ideas and conceptualizing. Whatever the original abstraction, it typically fades into the background with each footfall.  I do not usually solve a problem or write a new hit song on the run, but the serenity that lingers after the exertion allows me to focus and see interests in a fresh light.

Back to it... I was settling into the evening and the experience and my mind slowly started firing again.  This time my mental activity was not so frenzied and a theme began to emerge.  I was thinking how my thoughts were out of control, then how life can feel out of control when the word "control" stuck in my head.  I realized that running was my control.  Just that night I was wishy washy and unsure what to do, but running made sense.  To run is to take control.  I decide how far I want to go, the path I want to pursue, solo or with a co-conspirator, fast, slow, etc.  The common link is me.  I am the constant.  I am the control.  This revelation put a spring in my step.  I might not know my purpose in life or what to eat for dinner, but I can always go for a run.

My first mile this night was heavy but now the weight was lifted.  I was singing along with my cheesy iPod pop songs and smiling at strangers passed along the way.  The Safety Harbor Pier came into view and I did not want the sun to set!  Barely a single wave rippled the water - I felt simpatico with the sea.  Something about the water brings a calm to my soul.  I never want to leave.  I gathered strength from my fellow ocean admirers and reminded myself, I will return.

My smile and crooning carried me home to the gorgeous scene captured with a quick photo.  What more can I say to the universe except, "Thanks"!

P.S. - happy Father's Day;)

Everything is Zen

Last night I had a rare, I am tired and do not feel like working out kind of night... I laid down to rest but could not fall asleep.  It was dreary and rainy outside which did not help my mood.  Now, thinking back, I realize the nasty weather was actually a gift.  The downpour of rain (which flooded Tampa-pic below)

(Bay News 9 photo)

was a welcome relief from the earlier heat of the day and gave me an idea. My runner dog, Kismet, might enjoy this cool weather and be the perfect running companion:)   

I suited up with slight hesitation--decisions, decisions--what running shoes do I want to trash knowing Kis likes to run in the grass and it is super wet out;) Kis saw me getting dressed and started to get excited.  She likes to weave in between your legs and rub up against you and block your path as you prep up. 

I believe she always wants to go with me thanks to this pitiful guilt face she makes but the high temps and longer distances as of late are not the right mix. However, she was in for a treat tonight!

When I grabbed her collar she started barking and jumping--this was it--she knew she was going for an adventure!  I also grabbed some treats to keep her motivated on the return trip.  Yes, Kismet is spoiled but they all are in ways to match their unique personalities.  

Kis loves to run and has one speed-fast! She knows the path and takes off full throttle.  We have a park near our home a little over a mile down the road.  There is water, shade and freedom for her to open up and let loose.  It is a beautiful sight:)  The problem is she does not know how to pace herself.  I try to pace her but it is easier to give in and call it a Fartlek session.  This word still causes me to snicker, which according to elite runners distinguishes the serious athletes from weekend warriors (like me).    

Per wiki:  Fartlek means "speed play" in Swedish and “is simply defined as periods of fast running intermixed with periods of slower running."

Regardless, once Kismet burns it out on our sprint to the park, she needs a little encouragement on the road home, hence the bag of treats.

This run was pure joy from the start!  I left my watch and headphones behind and we shot out the door.  Kismet knew the night was ours and put her paws to the pavement.  The trip to the park was a blur with me pretending to stop her for her own good but really an excuse for me to suck air.  WOW--it's been awhile since I have run full speed!  Kis was smiling ear to ear with her tongue hanging out and nudging me to start the speedy roller coaster ride again.  Hang on, I thought, here we go.  I had to mentally remind myself, it is only a mile and surely I can gut it out.  I can rest on the walk/jog home.

We made it to the park and I set Kis free.  She took off into the wide open park and I took off in the opposite direction.  The benefit of a herding dog--they like to chase (bonus-running for no reason;)  She heard my feet rustling the leaves on the other side of the trail and she was on my heels in seconds.  No sneaking away from Flash.  We then jogged along the trail which allowed me to catch my breath and her to investigate the bushes that run along the tennis courts, the holes created by gopher turtles and send squirrels scampering for the trees.

The sun was long gone and any remaining light was starting to fade.  I let Kis have a nice long drink and rest while I inhaled the cimmerian air.  Running is an equalizer for me whether I want to do it or not.  I need the physical release. Running (and boxing) allows me to push out excess energy and balance my body and spirit. The same holds true for Kismet--she needs the liberation as much as me.  She is my sole sister.  

The lethargy in my body was gone and my mood lifted.  Kismet was up and ready for the journey home.  Surprisingly, she wanted to run and kept up a jogging pace much more my style.  We ran along the grass in a state of bliss barely stopping for her typical treats.  On the final road home, the moonlight shimmered on the street and had me drifting into a zen-like state.  We were two shadowy beings, the rhythmic sound of our feet/paws and I felt like we were the only two alive when BAM--a cat ran across the road.  Kis had the leash fully extended in chase and I was skating across a neighbor's lawn.

Back to reality but the dream was real and set my soul at peace:)

The Art of Athletic Support

I have used the term "SAG wagon" over the years.  I knew it meant something about support and aid but then I fumbled with what the "G" stood for and kind of just mumbled it fast;)  Supporting our friends recently at the Dunedin Triathlon this past Sunday made me think of the term again.  

It appears the origin of the term came out of the cycling world meaning “Support and Gear” or “Support Aid Group.”  I laughed out loud at a SAG reference on a cycling site that mentioned it could mean "Sick And Grouchy" if having a bad day (http://www.steephill.tv/galleries/2005/high-pyrenees/). 

Wikipedia has more:

"SAG" may derive from a rider "sagging" off the back of the group.

SAG station - a location along the course of a long mass participation recreational ride providing mechanical and/or medical assistance to riders in need.

Volunteers at the SAG station may also dispatch SAG wagons to assist riders stranded along the course. A SAG station may also function as a food stop.

Now equipped with the definition I feel much better about using the term!  

So back to this weekend... it was a friend's first triathlon. We wanted to be there to cheer and support in this endeavor!  As a competitor, I know how valuable encouragement from a friend, family member or total stranger can be. One moment you are dragging along and then someone yells your name or says, "great job" and your head lifts a little higher and somehow your legs gain energy.  The emotional and physical lift is amazing!  

However, the logistics of athletic support is a sport in and of itself.  Just ask my aunt, Carol, who did a phenomenal job chasing me and a friend around the city of Louisville to cheer and support during the marathon.  The eve of the race, we poured over the course map to pinpoint locations/mile markers where she thought she could park, wave, cheer, throw pretzels and even coordinate a drop off for my wife to jump in and run the last ten miles with me.  This race was over 5 years ago but the images of my "sag wagon" evoke strong feelings of happiness, camaraderie, and strength which pushed me through fatigue and pain to the finish line!  Wow, I am about to tear up - such is the power of SAG!

We knew the Dunedin Tri course and set ourselves at the end of the Causeway at the bike turnaround to watch 2 laps of cycling.  We also knew the color of our friends' bikes, the color of their helmets and what they were wearing.  Although we had this information, discerning your friend in a pack of speeding bikes is not easy at all.  The colors and faces were a blur as bikes flew past us.  We cheered and clapped and kept a determined lookout.  I was sent up to the first bridge as a "spotter" to see if I could warn the cheer/picture squad of our friends advance arrival.  I was barely at the base of the bridge when I saw a white bike and gray helmet fly by.  My brain quickly made the connection as our friend on the bike yelled and waived to alert her supporters, hahaha.   I think we snapped one photo before our friend hit the turn and was cranking back towards Honeymoon Island.  We discovered she was on lap two already and her wife was maybe still on the course as well.  

We continued to clap and shout out to the bikers keeping an eye on the road for friend #2.  The bikers were very appreciative and many thanked us for the encouragement.  One girl stood out in particular as she pedaled along, she looked over and said, "thank you sooooo much".  It was extremely heartfelt and stuck with me.  It felt good to make someone else feel good.  

Our friends finished the tri and had a great experience.  We rehashed the details of the morning over a hearty, well-deserved breakfast!  Our friend's daughter (who was part of our glee club) brought up the appreciative biker in between bites of banana pancakes.  That girl made an impression on us all!

To all my friends, relatives and strangers that have motivated and encouraged me to conquer my goals - THANK YOU!  I hope you felt the gratitude in my heart bestowed onto me by this unknown triathlete:)

Nothing for granted

Recently I've been hampered with a lingering cough.  I thought I was on the road to recovery and had a decent 9 mile run prior to our cruise this past weekend.  My idea was to squeeze in one last run and then take a break while on the get-a-way.  On the cruise track, eleven laps = 1 mile.  A million laps around a tiny track-not my idea of a good time;)  Seems eerily familiar to treadmill running.  As you may surmise, I am not a fan of the hamster-wheel/treadmill.  I will run on a treadmill as a last resort but prefer an open road or trail!  It is too easy for me to just hop off the treadmill, versus if I run two miles away from home, I have to run (or walk, but I have no patience for that) two miles to get back.  Forced motivation, along with a sense of adventure awaits an outdoor run!

So, as intended I chilled out on the cruise.  No running, but we did use the track for some mini boot camp workouts (thank you Cherry).  On the last day we were going to run a few laps to warm up but the wind nearly blew us off the ship so we stuck to jumping jacks and jump rope.  

We had a great time on the cruise!  We read books and watched the sunset every night. We ate and napped whenever the mood struck.  We enjoyed the dance show and live bands. We took an excursion to "Isla de Passíon" which was amazing.  The water was crystal clear and a gorgeous green. Blue Lagoon drinks and ocean hammocks made the day fly!  We also met a cool couple from our area.  And the catamaran ride back was one big dance party.

Oh yeah, back to my throat tickler... I felt a little lethargic on the cruise and definitely not near the 110% I like to represent whether work or play.  After the Passion Island party my cough returned with a vengeance--not happy.  I tried to write it off to too much sun and drink; however, my allergies had other ideas.  The cold did not interfere with our good time cruise but the new virus did wreck havoc on my psyche.  I had something flu-ish in March and then bronchitis in April and now another viral attack-WTH!!!  Back on the mainland my goal was to run long in training for the Pinellas Trail Challenge (PTC).  I could not believe I was sick AGAIN.  

I wallowed around in pity for a few days but it was time to lift the mental and physical fog. I began to barter with myself.  I would appreciate every run in the future no matter the heat, the distance, the loneliness--as long as I could breathe without coughing or feeling blah.   I was forced to rest but I told myself, I will come back stronger.  I came to realize, you cannot take anything for granted.  I started to feel gratitude for the health I have, for the ability to run, for work, for my amazing soul mate and wonderful friends and family.

I was still a little bit shaky yesterday but totally stir crazy.  There was a slight breeze and some clouds so I decided to test out my legs and lungs.  I took a swig of Tylenol cold medicine and was out the door.  My legs fell into rhythm and my breathing was ok.  I tried not to assess everything and just enjoy the freedom and spirit of the run.  The 3 miles went by too fast but the spirit carried on throughout my day.  My body and mind celebrated this little accomplishment. I felt alive and back to my usual self.  

Sometimes a low brings out a high.  Not the "runner's high"... speaking of--topic for another blog~

Journey on friends!

Shadow Runner

Sunday night was a tough run.  Surprisingly not physically tough, but mentally.  This past weekend was the start of back to back runs in preparation for the Pinellas Trail Challenge (as I will lovingly now refer to as the PTC;).  Not to be confused with the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail - 2,663 miles) which Cheryl Strayed (portrayed by Reese Witherspoon) hikes a portion of in the movie Wild.

Small side note about the Pinellas Trail and then back to why the run was challenging... while researching when the Courtney Campbell Causeway trail will officially open on the Pinellas side-see blog post from Saturday as to why this was on my mind (June 19th for those wondering);  I discovered an "under construction" map of the Pinellas Trail.  I knew additions to the trail were under way but I was unaware of of the scale of the project.  New trail appendages along the east side of the Pinellas peninsula will connect the recent East/West add on to the current North/South trail creating a loop of the county.  Once the loop is complete, the trail will total 74.9 miles (seriously, wouldn't you add 0.1 and make it 75?).  I am so happy we are running the PTC now, hahaha~  Here's a map of the new county loop.

Anyway, back to Sunday's run.  I was tired from 18 holes of golf (plug for Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Course--Mother's Day discount!) and tired from 10 miles on Saturday and not ready for the weekend to end!  I was hoping to nap and recharge, but could not sleep.  So I laced up my shoes and grabbed my freshly charged iPod;)

The temperature was still in the 80's at 6:30pm but it did not feel near as hot as Saturday--there was a wonderful breeze and no direct sun overhead.  I decided on a quick 5 mile out and back to the Safety Harbor Pier.  We are very lucky this amazing gem is just 2.5 miles from our house!  It's not the most scenic route until you arrive at the Pier but I wanted simple and mind numbing.  As mentioned earlier, I was tired and my legs felt heavy.  I started moving my legs and began the mental Arnold Schwarzenegger "Terminator" type bodily assessment that seems to happen without thought.  I was feeling ok; however, as my scan moved from head to toe, my knee appeared on my mental monitor flashing red.  This I must confess was due to a ridiculous American Ninja Warrior move I tried to execute on the last hole of golf.  Let's just say I'm no longer 20 or 30 for that matter and should not jump small tributaries in a single bound.

Anyway, as I was jogging along with the scan complete, my mind started wander.  I was missing our friends which also double as running/up for anything partners.  I used to love running solo but the longer I've run the more I crave company (even if silent).  I know that may sound odd, but knowing someone is with you can make or break a run.  You know if you're tired, they are tired.  You are hot and they are looking for shade with you.  They have aches and pains which makes you feel good if you don't currently hurt or allows you to share and discuss resting strategies you will never follow through on;)  Or you run along together quietly and then open up like chatter boxes once the run is done to rehash the experience-good, bad, ugly!

It was the solo run Saturday and now again Sunday that had me feeling lonely.  Although there were plenty of cars buzzing past me and my music kicking, the road ahead seemed desolate.  It was then that my shadow caught my eye.  It seemed to jump out at me to say, "Hey, you are not alone".  Stride for stride my shadow matched pace and kept me moving forward.  She was my silent companion and perfect partner to push me to my destination.  Instead of counting my steps and checking my watch, I was gliding along fully engaged in the run.

Before I realized, I was looking at the water and it was gorgeous.  A beautiful, clear night, serene water and the landscape of Tampa looming in the background.  Lots of people were out and about enjoying the evening with their moms.  I reminisced about a fun filled day with my soul mate and mother-in-law.  Along with memories of my recent trip home and valuable time with my mom, sister, niece and nephew.  The impressions filled me with love and appreciation.

I took one last look at the water and headed home.  My shadow was now gone but the intimacy remained.

photo credit: Running shadow via photopin (license)