Cause & Effect

Hey there blogosphere, what's new?  So to pick up where we left off last time, I was back to running after ending the running streak at 43 days and I had what I thought to be a really bad case of shin splints.  Fast forward to Wednesday, January 25, a day that will live in infamy for the following reasons.


1.In 1915, the inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell, inaugurated U.S. transcontinental telephone service and we've been charged outrageous long-distance rates ever since...

2. In 1980, Paul McCartney is released from a Tokyo jail & deported.  They should have left him there....have you listened to any "Wings" album?

Really?

3. In 2012, Justin Rummel was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right tibia.  Stupid, stupid man.

A stress fracture is described as a small break in a bone caused by repetitive action.  An example would be running every day.  Yes, I know what you're thinking, in fact, I am an idiot for taking on this ridiculous challenge.   


According to Newton's third law "for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction".  So the body can take a great deal of stress from continual action due to the slight elasticity of our skeletal structure.  Add in the absorption power of the muscles and most of the shock forces can be dissipated throughout the leg.  However, due to the muscle fatigue from all the miles logged during the previous month, my muscles stopped absorbing the shock and the bones' shock force intake increased; thereby creating the perfect environment for a stress fracture. 


So you could say, I am a broken man.  The doctor's prescription....rest, no running for one month and then he'll take another x-ray to determine if the fracture has adequately healed.  When I asked him about the marathon in March, he said, no marathons until April or May depending on how it goes from here.  Not exactly what I wanted to hear, but there is a bright side, if you look closely enough and sift through all of my stupidity.


Dr. Cohen said that I can still bike, swim and that's about it.  So I've been biking while awaiting my doctor's appointment, not my favorite thing in the world but my Christmas gift (a bike trainer) to Addy will sure come in handy over the next month.  Additionally, we have the sweetest pool in DC right across the street at Wilson High School so it looks like I'll have to break out my speedo!

So what have we learned from this little adventure?  Running on average 5 miles everyday for over a month, not recommended.  Listen to your body and your wife when they both implore you to cease and desist.  Finally, being a stubborn, stubborn man really sucks at times.


So while this blog is entitled "Man Running", this man won't be running for awhile.  Stay tuned for Man Swimming & Biking and perhaps Rope Climbing soon.


Until next time,


Justin

The End - 43 days

The streak has ended.  Yes, my body finally gave out after 43 days of running every day.  Honestly, it was bound to happen at some point.  On what would have been day 44, I got home around 7:30 and barely had the energy to walk across the garage.  After much consternation about letting go of the streak, I decided to listen to my body and that was all she wrote.  As a result of those 43 days, I have come down with a terrible case of shin splints.  This led to a new streak of not running which lasted for four days finishing the first week in January with a measly 11 miles.

Ouch!!!

However, if you know me, then you could probably guess that I'm not about to allow a little pain to get in my way.  It actually hurts a lot more when I walk then when I run.  Anyways, long story short, I'm back at it this week logging 33 miles for the week.

Whether you care or not, I am going to note that I've trimmed my beard.  In my humble opinion, the beard was awesome.  But, I felt like it was getting a little too crazy for the finance world and therefore, I took it down a notch.  Since that time, my streak has ended and the shin splints have started; could it be that much like Samson, my strength rested within the beard or is it pure coincidence?  Needless to say, I'm bringing the beard back; damn the office mores.

Moving on, so I've heard from a couple readers (literally 2) about getting back to the blogging.  I've taken an extended break from writing (I use the term loosely) for a number of reasons.

1) I kind of hate the fact that the streak ended and have been slightly pissed off about it.  Therefore, I've boycotted the writing because I'm not sure if it makes physical sense to try and start another streak.  I'm running my next marathon in March and I don't want to jeopardize my participation with this odd streak.

2) Between work responsibilities and just life in general, I didn't have it in me to continue writing the blog.  Thank the Great Spirit for long weekends or else this post may have never came to be.

3) I'm taking a class this quarter.  So combine a lot of office hours with a lot of study hours and that's what I like to call a "blog killer".

I surrender!!!!

So for all of my dedicated readers (all 2 or 3 of you), I will continue to post; however they will be posted on a completely haphazard schedule.  If you can't handle that, you have way to much time on your hands and should probably start a blog about it.

All in all I've had a great start to 2012.  I love my wife, my family, my job and my life, so I don't really have anything to complain about other than the wicked, nasty shin splints.  On a side note, my wife is training for her first half-marathon and crushing it right now, so many props to her as she continues to train for her big race.

Hands off; she's all mine boys.

Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012, Mayans be damned.  Stats below:

Monday (1/9/12) - Miles - 5.03 in 42:01 at 8:21 pace burning 776 calories

Mile 1 - 7:47 / Mile 2 - 8:25 / Mile 3 - 8:22 / Mile 4 - 8:47 / Mile 5 - 8:24

Tuesday (1/10/12) - Miles - 3 in 24:42 at 8:14 pace burning 464 calories

Mile 1 - 8:05 / Mile 2 - 8:23 / Mile 3 - 8:14

Wednesday & Thursday - Off days

Friday (1/13/12) - Miles - 6 in 52:29 at 8:49 pace burning 933 calories

Mile 1 - 8:01 / Mile 2 - 8:23 / Mile 3 - 8:44 / Mile 4 - 9:24 / Mile 5 - 8:36 / Mile 6 - 9:21

Saturday (1/14/12) - Miles - 6 in 49:51 at 8:18 pace burning 926 calories

Mile 1 - 7:57 / Mile 2 - 8:17 / Mile 3 - 8:22 / Mile 4 - 8:38 / Mile 5 - 8:18 / Mile 6 - 8:14

Sunday (1/15/12) - *Note to the reader, very sick on this run but a man's gotta do, what a man's gotta do.

Miles - 13 in 1:54.44 at 8:49 pace burning 2007 calories (wish I felt good enough to replace them....)

Mile 1 - 8:02 / Mile 2 - 8:44 / Mile 3 - 8:34 / Mile 4 - 8:40 / Mile 5 - 8:23 / Mile 6 - 8:36 / Mile 7 - 8:55 / Mile 8 - 8:36 / Mile 9 - 9:04 / Mile 10 - 9:08 / Mile 11 - 9:33 / Mile 12 - 8:57 / Mile 13 - 9:36

Until next time...

Justin

Days 36 - 40 A New Year

Happy New Year!!!  2011 was a great year and I'm looking to keep the positive vibes rolling right into 2012.  All apologies to the Mayans, but I don't buy what you're selling regarding the end of world in December.

So as you've probably noticed (all 2 or 3 of you who actually read this drivel) I've moved away from posting on a daily basis.  A couple of reasons for the change:

1) It's tough enough running everyday, let alone writing everyday;
2) In all honesty, I'm boring and there just isn't that much fodder for a daily post;
3) I like to build the suspense of "did he or didn't he". (A by-product of reality TV, thanks Addy)

As I reminisce over 2011, I tend to focus on the most recent month, December.  It was a great month for "Man Running".  Honeymoon success, quality time with family & friends and last but not least my truly first entire month of running every day.  Over the 31 days in December, I ran a total 124.19 miles over 18 hours averaging 8:42 per mile and burning a total of 19,144 calories. (I wonder how that stacks up to the calories I consumed this month....?)  2011 running ended yesterday with a 12 mile run up and back the Capital Crescent Trail in 1 hour and 44 minutes.  Beautiful day for a run; however I'm starting to wonder if "Ol' Man Winter" is ever going to show up.

Where's all the snow?

However, that's not to minimize any other month in 2011.  From my first marathon in March 2011 to our  wedding in April; 2011 was a lot of fun.  I'll always look back on it as a monumental year in every aspect.  I learned a lot this year about myself and about life in general. In my best estimation, learning really is the key to growth as an employee, as a husband and just generally as a resident of this blue pearl we call Earth.

Here's a quick list of 2011's "Top 5" lessons learned or reinforced during the past year:

1) Per the Beatles, "All you need is love".  Whether it be the love of your family, friends or an act of random kindness, love goes a long way in ensuring happiness in the day-to-day.
2) Patience is a virtue.  A tough lesson, especially when you're stuck in traffic for countless hours or awaiting a special occasion; patience is a must and serves us well in keeping that blood pressure down.
3) Babies.....
a. You really can hold them without breaking them;
b. Family will always ask when you're going to start making them after you get married (and that's okay);
c. They're everywhere!

Everett and I chillin' over the holidays.

4) Hard work pays off.  Maybe not right away, but in life, at work, or at play, if you give it your all; you will reap the benefits.
5) Take vacations.  I went through my twenties not really taking them; however as an older and wiser gentleman of 34 years of age, I can say that everyone needs time to recharge their batteries on a yearly basis.

Life's a beach.

I hope each and everyone of you have a happy and successful 2012.

Stats below:

Day 36 (12/28/11) - 5 miles in 42:15 with an average pace of 8:26
(Mile 1 - 8:05 / Mile 2 - 8:29 / Mile 3 - 8:25 / Mile 4 - 8:38 / Mile 5 - 8:35)

Day 37 (12/29/11) - 5 miles in 42:05 with an average pace of 8:24
(Mile 1 - 8:08 / Mile 2 - 8:26 / Mile 3 - 8:21 / Mile 4 - 8:40 / Mile 5 - 8:21)

Day 38 (12/30/11) 4 miles in 32:42 with an average pace of 8:10
(Mile 1 - 8:03 / Mile 2 - 8:05 / Mile 3 - 8:30 / Mile 4 - 8:00)  Totally racing a stranger that last mile.  Love it!

Day 39 (12/31/11) 12 miles in 1:44:26 with an average pace of 8:41
(Mile 1 - 8:05 / Mile 2 - 8:27 / Mile 3 - 8:44 / Mile 4 - 8:42 / Mile 5 - 8:36 / Mile 6 - 8:36 / Mile 7 - 8:50 / Mile 8 - 8:36 / Mile 9 - 8:57 / Mile 10 - 8:55 / Mile 11 - 8:33 / Mile 12 - 9:13)

Day 40 (1/01/11) 2 miles in 16:57 (Mile 1 - 8:29 / Mile 2 - 8:28)
*Note to self; running on a belly full of tasty pork shoulder, sauerkraut, and Addy's famous mashed potatoes is not as fun as filling said belly with this delicious New Year's day meal.

Until next time,

Justin

Days 24 - 35 Holiday

I'm back!!!!  To start, I would like to state the following:
1. Costa Rica is "the bee's knees", no doubt;
2. Running on the beach is good for the soul; and
3. Christmas rocks!


I'm back in the states and coming off a whirlwind holiday that began in Costa Rica on the 16th of December and ended on December 26 following a marathon Christmas tour through central Pennsylvania.  Good to be home but missing the sunshine, fo' sho'.

Love me some sugar.....Playa Pan De Azucar, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a beautiful country inhabited by some of the kindest people I've had the pleasure of meeting in my life.  The country's motto or national expression is "pura vida".  Literally translated it means "pure life"; however the functional translation is more like "this is living" or "full of life" and this country is definitely full of life.  

Feliz Navidad!

My wife and I filled our honeymoon/vacation with a lot of sweet activities and a heavy dose of "beach time".  We stayed at the Sugar Beach Hotel in the Guanacaste, Costa Rica.  This secluded enclave away from the "Gringo Trail" gave us the ability to melt into Costa Rica and enjoy the country in a more natural and authentic way.  The beach itself is beautiful with a consistent 5 to 6 foot break and on big swell days, waves up to 10 to 15 feet (the size on the final day).  I hit the boogy board up a good bit; never got the surf lessons in but I didn't really care.  The boogy board gave me the ability to enjoy the awesome power of the ocean on a daily basis for many fun-filled hours.

Riding a big dog on the final day (middle of wave).

While Sugar Beach was our home base in Costa Rica, we also got out and about exploring everything this central American paradise has to offer.  We hit the zip-lines of the Congo Trail with our driver and guide, Martin'.  The drive was literally over the river (creeks) and through the woods.  While most of the roads were paved on our way to the coast, upon arrival we received a heavy dose of dirt roads and "barely there" roads.  After arriving at Congo, we put on our harnesses and hit the trees.  The longest zip line was 9 and 1/2 football fields long providing plenty of speed and a sweet view of this arid jungle.  What a ride!!!

Superman ride!

Love it!

We also worked in more casual rides as well.  My wife and I took a sunset / snorkel tour one day on a 45-foot catamaran.  It was a really wild time.  We were 1 of 2 couples on this huge boat and pretty much had it all to ourselves.  Upon heading out to the open water we passed another, similar boat stockpiled with 30 or more people and we just smiled.  

Winning

As we rolled out to our snorkeling location I was sitting in the netting on the front of the boat and noticed what looked to be a hand waving at us.  Intrigued, I moved forward and realized the person wasn't waving to say "Hi", but was waving for help.  Years of life-guarding kicked in and I alerted the Captain.  We made our way to the stranded SUP boarder and pulled her in, moments later we rescued a second boarder (brother of the first).  Wild! We were all very glad to have been at the right place at the right time to save these two kids.  Needless to say they were very thankful and we contacted their resort to come pick them up.

The two kids we rescued discussing how they got into trouble.

After the rescue, we dropped anchor and started our wild snorkel adventure.  Our guide, Emilio, was very experienced (13 years) and fearless.  He led us through the reef and provided a truly "hands-on" experience.    By "hands-on", I mean he basically caught the fish and brought them to us.  Crazy!  From the porcupine fish to puffer fish to even a 2 foot octopus (very unhappy evidenced by the number of time he blew ink all over us). Each of us got the chance to touch each of these awesome marine creatures.  Emilio was sure to treat them with great care and always released them where he picked them up.  As a huge starfish was handed to me, I explored its gritty texture and vivrant colors, then dove back to the bottom placing it gently on the sea floor.  Emilio smiled at me upon surfacing and gave me a big thumb's up!  Rad experience.  This adventure was a real blast and reminded me of why I love swimming and the ocean so much.

Recalling the days adventures...

Each day of our journey was awe-inspiring and really recharged our batteries.  From the fresh, juicy fruit served each day at breakfast to the picturesque beaches and sunsets, my wife and I really fell in love with this country.  The staff on a daily basis were helpful and during our many drives to other beach locales (Playa Conchal - amazing seashell beach to Playa Grande - real surfers beach) the locals that we met were extremely friendly and just plain happy.  Really, when you live somewhere this beautiful it must be really easy to see the beauty in life on a daily basis.

Sunsets like this every day....so beautiful.

So you might be wondering with all these activities and beauty, did I keep up with my running.....?  Well, of course I did.  Everyday, I hit the beach or back roads for a couple miles.  The one thing that each run had in common, other than the endless beauty that surrounded me, was the fact that it was H-O-T.  I can sweat with the best of them and I ended each run completely drenched.  In addition, these dirt roads that I ran on were like a roller coaster with close to 45 degree inclines that tested my pain thresholds on a daily basis.  So mission accomplished on the running project or as I have lovingly started to refer to it, "The Forrest Gump Project" (beard included). 

One view encountered during my daily runs...words just don't do it justice.

I kept the project going through our Pennsylvania holiday tour.  The move to running longer distances (I alternated 2 and 3 mile runs while on vacation) and the cooler temperatures were a welcomed change during the holidays.  I love how Christmas brings all our family and friends together, albeit for a short time.  A great time of year to reflect on all of 2011's blessings and accomplishments, as well as look forward to another awesome year in 2012. 

Wiest side of the family on Christmas Eve.

Christmas day with Mom & Dad

Prime Rib & twice-baked potatoes at the Gross's Christmas Night

All in all, I've had a great time this past week and a half.  Memories that will last a lifetime and then some.  I hope each of you had a wonderful holiday season.  Now back to work both literally and figuratively. 

Stats below:

Costa Rica Runs

Day 24 (12/16/11) - 2 miles in 19:13 (9:35 avg.)

Day 25 (12/17/11) - 3 miles in 30:10 (10:01 avg.)

Day 26 (12/18/11) - 2.55 miles in 25.05 (9:49 avg.)

Day 27 (12/19/11) - 3.13 miles in 32:00 (10:13 avg.)

Day 28 (12/20/11) - 2.01 miles in 17:31 (8:41 avg.)

Day 29 (12/21/11) - 3 miles in 30:28 (10:08 avg.)

Day 30 (12/22/11) - 2 miles in 18:53 (9:25 avg.)

Day 31 (12/23/11) - 3 miles in 26.44 (8:53 avg.)

Back in the States Runs

Day 32 (12/24/11) - 5.01 miles in 42:21 (8:26 avg.)

Day 33 (12/25/11) - 5 miles in 43:15 (8:38 avg.)

Day 34 (12/26/11) - 2 miles in 16:01 (Mile 1 - 7:44 / Mile 2 - 8:17)

Day 35 (12/27/11) - 3 miles in 24:56 (Mile 1 - 7:47 / Mile 2 - 8:45 / Mile 3 - 8:24)

December Run Totals

Until tomorrow, 


Justin

Day 23 - Peace Out

Hard to really concentrate because tomorrow at this time I'll be on a beach in Costa Rica.  I am going to keep this thing moving right along, the only difference is that instead of the politically charged streets of DC, I'll be on the sun-soaked shores of Costa Rica.

Yep, that's where....seriously.

So not to belabor the point, but I'm spent and want to take a moment to relax prior to the trip.  I won't  be posting at all, but I'll be logging miles.  I'll catch you up with the project and other needless drivel about paradise upon my return.  Peace out.

Stats below.

Distance: 3.26
Time: 27.24
Pace: 8:23
Calories: 503

Until next week,

Justin

Day 22 - Punching Cars

One thing I've come to understand about running in the city is that you must always be aware of your surroundings. Even when you have the white "Walk" sign some people will run right through it.  People get crazy stupid sometimes.

Walk?

According to DC law, pedestrians have the right of way “within any marked crosswalk or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection (un-signalized crosswalk) .”  However, you wouldn't know it by the amount of people that completely disregard the law.   It may also be complete ignorance, but I prefer to give DC the benefit of doubt.  (Dumb)


Tonight, while crossing within the east cross walk at Ward Circle Park on Nebraska Ave this dude comes flying through it.  He slowed up after the majority of his car was already past me. (hey way to go Captain Reaction)  As you could imagine, I was slightly pissed off at this guy so I let him know he broke the law.....by punching the trunk of his car.  Now, I know what you're thinking, "you're an adult, why punch the car, just be thankful it didn't hit you".  Oh, I'm thankful....thankful he slowed down a little so I could beat on his trunk.


As for the run, I made it through without any further incidents.  My left calf really started tensing up around mile 5 but hung on for 6 miles total tonight.  Doubt is beginning to creep in about how much longer the streak will last.  I definitely fear injury but dammit I'm totally bought in on this thing.  So conflicted.....Stay tuned.....


Stats below:


Distance: 6.04
Time: 53:22
Pace: 8:50
Calories 931

Until tomorrow,


Justin

Day 21 - Disgruntled

My left calf muscle is a ball of tightness, no joke.  All day long its been in a quasi-state of cramping.  Scary stuff. I tore my right calf muscle about 4 years ago playing soccer and it was not so cool.  I've never been shot by a gun but I imagine its feel similar to your calf muscle blowing up.

My right calf in 2008.  Boom goes the dynamite!

I was able to loosen it up a little bit today through massage and stretching.  When I arrived home after a spectacularly horrible commute, I pretty much walked directly into our home, got my gear and bounced.  I plugged 5 miles into the phone and set off.  A mile into the run I could tell that I just didn't have it in me to put 5 solid miles together and quickly adjusted my plan down to 2 miles.  In this case... I listened to my body and shortened the run.

Hoping to feel better tomorrow after a night of heat and rest.  Maybe get 5 or 6 miles in tomorrow night. Gotta keep pushing forward.

Stats below:

Distance: 2.01
Time: 16:40
Pace 8:20
Calories: 310

Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 20 - Late Night Run

What a way to start my final week of work before leaving on vacation.  I had a business dinner tonight with our Internal Audit group at a great restaurant in Reston Town Center named PassionFish.  There's a great ambiance within PassionFish from the see-through wine cooler to the classic hanging chandeliers.  The restaurant has a multi-level setting which gives a "Boardwalk Empire" type feel to the this establishment.  I had two of the sushi rolls for dinner, the "Rock n' Roll and the Captain Crunch Roll".  Each were fine in their own right; however, I found them to be a tad more about the presentation rather than the actual taste.  They paled in comparison to my favorite sushi restaurant in D.C., Murasaki.

Captain Crunch Roll

I arrived home around 9 p.m. with a full belly, but a desire to get on the road for my run.  It was a short run considering the time of day and the need to hit the hay at a decent time with a full schedule tomorrow.  I hope everyone had a productive Monday!

Stats below:

Distance: 2 miles
Time: 16:33
Pace: 8:15
Calories: 309

Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 19 - Crescent Runs

Oh Sunday, I love you and hate you equally.  You are delightful in the morning and create a slight amount of agony as the day progresses.  First thing this morning I hit up Starbucks and headed right back to the couch to catch up on yesterday's college football and basketball scores while enjoying some time with my wife planning out the day.

And what a great day it was.   First, we hit up the spa and then got some lunch.  After that, I hit the telly for a little bit and took in some NFL football.  At around 2 it was time to hit the road for today's run.  I plugged my 10-mile goal into my I-phone with a great amount of trepidation.  My ankles were more than a little sore and my legs were aching so I thought 10 might be a stretch.  In addition to  my 10 mile goal, I wanted to stay pretty steady on this run and try to keep a consistent pace.

The first 5 miles were nothing to write home about.  Around Mile 5 I ran into a couple running and they were so gifted that they could hold a conversation and keep a pretty quick pace.  I don't know what they were talking about but I could hear it above my tunes so I had to pick it up and put some space between myself and the "Talkers".  I got going and had a great last half of the run.

When I got done with my 10-miles I was severely parched and hit CVS up for one of those electrolyte drinks.  I don't know if they work but man, they're good.  My great run today was followed by an even better dinner with the family.  The dinner was so much fun that I completely forgot that tomorrow was Monday.

Until tomorrow, Justin.

Stats below:

Distance: 10 miles
Time: 1:27:12
Pace: 8:42 per mile
Calories: 1,542

SPLITS:

MILE      TIME      AVG. PACE

1              8:06        8'06"/mi

2              16:38     8'32"/mi

3              25:32     8'54"/mi

4              34:26     8'54"/mi

5              43:04     8'38"/mi

6              51:37     8'33"/mi

7              1:00:44  9'07"/mi

8              1:09:31  8'47"/mi

9              1:18:32  9'01"/mi

10           1:27:08  8'36"/mi

Day 18 - Easy Stuff

Sometimes the easy stuff in life is hard and conversely, the harder things to do actually are easy.  Take for instance sleeping in on the weekend, it should be pretty easy, right?  Not so much.  I was pretty early to rise today, but it's not all bad, at least I got to catch some SportsCenter action.

Next, shopping, not an easy thing to do for some of us guys; however today, not so bad.  My wife and I breezed through some Georgetown shops, picking up Christmas presents and taking in the holiday buzz along M Street.

Looking south onto the Intersection of Wisconsin & M

After taking in some of the sights and sounds of the season, it was time to make our way to the hospital to meet our close friend's newborn baby girl, Rose.  Here in lies another example how things that should be easy, like a holding a baby, are not easy.  I, for some reason, have always had a fear of holding babies.  I tend to not do it until they're a little larger.  They just look so delicate and I don't want to be responsible for something so precious with my goofy arms.  However, today, Rose looked so sweet I couldn't just say no.  So with some good coaching from everyone I held little baby Rose.  It was really cool.  I was a little tense at first but a pretty amazing experience all in all.  She is so very precious, Jer and  Sal!  Congrats!

I look like "Dumb Donald" from Fat Albert.....she's a perfect  little bundle!

After our visit, we headed to pick up some lunch.  We hit one of my wife's favorite burger joints just off the SW corner of Connecticut, Shake Shack.  The Shack originated in NYC and we will be eternally thankful for it entry into D.C.  You know how I tell if a burger is great?  A great burger to me is juicy, almost greasy, has tomato and lettuce along with the old reliable, cheese.  This place supplies each in just the right amounts.  The single is a little small but full of taste.  One word sums it up.....

YUM!

On to today's run, a 4 miler.  My run was a tale of two miles.  My first two miles felt great and smooth, clocking in at 16:06.  The last two miles hurt, with a total time of 16:43.  I did take on a hillier section during the second half of the run, but I definitely felt a distinct difference between the halves, fo' sho'.  It felt like I was pushing on the second half a bit just to keep the run on the up and up.  Always trying to improve a bit.  I'll keep it going tomorrow, maybe a long one, if the joints are up to it.

Stats below:

Distance: 4.01 miles

Time: 32:49

Pace: 8:11

Calories: 618

Until tomorrow...oh wait it is tomorrow.   

Justin

Day 17 - Tired

Do you remember years ago when you got home on a Friday night and you were bursting with energy?  Ready to hit the bar, party, whatever and let the night take you where it may.  If you can remember those days....can you also remember where the hell we got all that energy from?

I get home on a Friday night now and I am completely exhausted.  Home around 7 and meandered around the house looking for anything to delay tonight's run.  First, I watered our soon to be dead Christmas tree, then I hung some wrinkled t-shirts, and finally, I finished a couple of day-long soaked dishes.  After dispensing of every last inane task, I begrudgingly hit the road.

The run was okay, in all honesty it was the last thing I wanted to do; but I got through it.  At the end of the day I was definitely happy to have gotten my run in; however I think I'm going to have a lot of Fridays where I'll struggle with going for a run.  I guess, in an effort to put a more positive vibe on it, I can at least say I ended the work week on a strong note.

Thank goodness for the weekend!

Stats below:

Distance: 3.01 miles
Time: 25:02
Pace: 8:18
Calories: 464

Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 16 - Keepin' it Real

So I got a text message today at work from a good friend back in Pennsylvania.  He wrote, "Only 1 mile....c'mon man".  Loved the comment for a multitude of reasons:

1) I was thinking the same thing last night;
2) People are reading about this wild journey;
3) True friends keep it real with you no matter what.

So in honor of you, Muzz, I hit the road tonight on a mission to bring the noise.

On a side note, I'm writing to you tonight on my computer.  It was resurrected from the depths of hard drive hell and I couldn't be happier to have it back home.  Big ups to the Computer Clinic Center a half block away on Wisconsin for working a miracle albeit for a price.

The computer work was reminiscent of Miracle Max !
Princess Bride (1987)

Tonight's run was a 6 miler on this super cool evening.  Not to get gross, but I am always amazed at how much I sweat even in the coldest of environments.  On to the run, stats below:

Distance:  6 miles

Time: 51:24

Pace: 8:33 per mile

Calories: 926 calories

Until tomorrow folks,

Justin

Day 15 - Grab Your Ark

Wow....cats and dogs out there tonight.  I wonderfully spoke of running in the rain last night while I had no such illusions tonight.  I actually saw green lightening tonight on the oh so fun ride home.  Crazy.

Upon reaching the home base, I hit the gym for a quick mile.  Treadmills are nice to have available for these types of biblical rain storms; however that doesn't change the fact that they suck.  I never had a hamster but those wheels have to be some sort of animal cruelty based on my treadmill experiences.  

Stats (or lack thereof) below:

Distance: 1.01 Mile

Time: 7:45

Calories: 155

Until tomorrow.....Justin

Day 14 - Rainy Days

As I prepared to leave for work this morning I took a peak out the window and noticed that the roads were wet.  Rain is a game-changer.  It makes the commute a little slower and the day feel a little longer; however, rain isn't all bad.  Rain allows the plants to grow, the rivers to flow, and helps clean these dirty city streets.

On any other day the rain would have been the straw that broke the camel's back.  It would have given me  all I needed to rationalize coming home and planting myself firmly in the couch.  Not to mention that while I feel good, per yesterday's post, my muscles are definitely fatigued.  Rain + fatigue = a great excuse to not run today.

Although today was no ordinary rainy day, it was to be my 14th consecutive day of running.  Most likely a minor feat for a true runner but for this regular guy it's a pretty big deal.  So I came home and hit the road again albeit on my own two feet.

As I made my way down Albemarle en route to my usual 5 mile loop the rain picked up from a drizzle to a more steady downpour.  It's funny how the very rain that any other day would have kept me from running actually pushed me on today through the physical fatigue.  The rain washed away all the worries and stressors that come with a 21st century life and rejuvenated me.  I don't think I've ever been truly thankful for a rainy day, not so today, I am thankful for today's rain.  This rainy day was everything I needed to get me through Day 14.

Stats below:

Distance: 5 miles
Time: 44:00
Pace: 8:47 per mile
Calories: 771

Week 2 Total Miles - 55.59 miles or just about 4 miles a day.

Mile 1 - 8:10 / Mile 2 - 8:45 / Mile 3 - 9:58 / Mile 4 - 9:23 / Mile 5 - 8:43

Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 13 - Magic Mile

My lucky #13 run came and went without much fan fare; much like the day.  Nothing entirely goes exactly the way you think on any given day so in that sense the day was pretty normal.  As I move forward with the running every day thing I know I'll have aches and pains along the way but so far so good.  I've actually been feeling pretty great all things considered.

Beautiful start to the day

 I tried to sprint out tonight's run but I could just not get my self up to top speed.   I did a quick loop through the neighborhood ending right back in front of our building.  I forgot a couple of things shopping yesterday, so I made a quick stop at Ace Hardware and Whole Foods.  On tonight's menu, cheeseburgers and Christmas decorations.

Stats below:

Distance: 1 mile
Time: 7:49
Calories: 155

Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 12 - Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

My wife and I started this lovely little Sunday off with some breakfast at the Capital City Diner.  I indulged in the country fried steak, home fries and bagels.  Some heavy fare so early in the day, but I was hopeful it wouldn't put me in the proverbial "food coma".

Next on the list was the search for the elusive Christmas tree.  We made one stop at a local church but their prices were a little on the high side and they didn't have any of the other gadgets we needed to set it up.  We also should have known the trees would be expensive at the church as they came the whole way down from heaven...

Next stop, good ol' Whole Foods.  It was a solid choice.  They've been on sale there since the weekend after Thanksgiving and came complete with all the bells and whistles.  It didn't take us very long to find the right tree and before you know it, we're heading back to the homestead to set it up.

It stayed straight long enough for a picture within a picture...

Time for some football.  My pickem' tickets and fantasy football teams have been a terrible disappointment this season but I still tune into the games with the crazy hope that I shall prevail.  Alas it was not my day once again on the grid iron.  I chose to let the "food coma" take over and fell into a light nap.

Dreaming of hallways filled with balloons....

After I awoke, it was off for a run.  Nothing special about today's run really; just another jaunt down Nebraska Ave.  Par for the course.

Stats below:

Distance: 3 miles
Time: 25:19
Pace: 8:25 per mile
Calories: 463

Perfect little Sunday.  Until tomorrow,

Justin

Day 11 - Food

I am so hungry right now.  It was just one of those days where I kinda forgot to eat real meals.  I was scheduled to run in the 15K (9 miles) Hot Chocolate race today; however  I didn't.  Don't worry I got my 9 miles in just a little bit later in the day.  I decided to forgo all the race madness and just sleep.  Sleeping in for me is 7:30, but oh it was so nice.  My wife ran in the 5K with some friends from work, some of who also ran the 15K.  So she had plenty of support in my absence and I'm so proud of her fast run today.

However, it's not like I sat around this morning; I had a list.  My wife was throwing a baby shower for a close friend later in the day and being the husband I am,  I had my Love's back, plus her friend is awesome and going to be a great Mom, so it was a "no-brainer" to help out.  I ran a couple of errands for her, mixed with a stop at the computer repair shop for my"on-life support" computer (hopefully, they can save this treasured relic of technology past) and topped it off with my first meal of the day, an old fashioned donut and Venti Soy Misto from Starbucks.  Couple of final touches to the apartment, I believe the term is "staging", and then it was on to my favorite part of to the day.

Hanging with my nephew while his Mom was hitting up the baby shower.  We got to hang at the playground, take a walk to the toy store and end it with some fries & a shake at Z-Burger (2nd meal).   Lots of fun had by the boys today!

Yum!

Upon our return to the apartment, the shower was still in full effect.  Perfect time for a run.  As I hit the road, I wasn't really sure how long I was going to run this evening.  I knew if I felt well enough I was going to have my own little Hot Chocolate race.  I headed northwest on River Road for the first two miles.  As I ran up and down the hilly road, watching car after car pass, some with soon-to-be Christmas trees, some with holiday booty I realized I have a lot of Christmas shopping to do before the big day.

I met up with the Capital Crescent Trail from River. This trail is part of the Rails to Trails conservancy and is widely used throughout D.C. as it runs from Georgetown to Silver Spring.  Over 11 miles of trail and it links with other great trails in D.C., like the Rock Creek Park Trail.

The next stop on the trail was through the heart of Bethesda Avenue (Mile 3.43).  Just above Bethesda the trail turns to gravel.  Great running terrain.  The arrival at the gravel section coincided with some really great Rap on my play list.  Rap + Gravel = Fast Pace.  Best mile of the night on this section of trail (Mile 4 - 7:37).

Bethesda Ave. was hoppin' tonight

Eventually, I had to hop off the trail as it was just getting too dark and a little more dicey.  At the trail's intersection with Connecticut I hooked a right and headed back to the D.C.

As soon as you hop back on the main drag you're dead in the face with a long uphill climb.  Boo!  After that I was feeling it fo' sho' but I knew what goes up, must come down.  Around Mile 7, I think, I was heading back into D.C. and the finish line was close at hand.

 Hoping for a Fenty vs. Gray rematch
with a different ending of course.

Before you know it, I'm back on Nebraska past Wilson High School and finally back into the hood.  Time for some well-deserved dinner.

Stats below:

Distance: 9.02 miles

Time: 1:18:38

Pace: 8:42 per mile

Calories: 1,391

Mile 1 - 8:19 / Mile 2 - 8:43 / Mile 3 - 8:31 / Mile 4 - 7:47 / Mile 5 - 8:50 / Mile 6 - 9:51 / Mile 7 - 8:15 / Mile 8 - 9:46 / Mile 9 - 9:02

Play list for tonight's run:

1. Windows Are Rolled Down - Amos Lee (Best new song for 2011)
2. Thickfreakness - The Black Keys
3. All of the Lights - Kanye West
4. Smile Like You Mean It - The Killers
5. Andy, You're a Star - The Killers
6. Trani - Kings of Leon (Early Kings but also the best)
7. McFearless -  Kings of Leon  (Love the guitar riff)
8. She Will - Lil Wayne w/ Drake
9. Start It Up - Lloyd Banks, Kanye West, Fabolous, Swizz Beatz  (That's my jam)
10. Dashboard - Modest Mouse
11. Little Lion Man - Mumford & Sons
12. Things Done Changed - The Notorious B.I.G
13. Go - Pearl Jam
14. Whipping - Pearl Jam (Yep)
15. Wake Up - Rage Against the Machine (Old School jam)
16. Know Your Enemy - Rage Against the Machine
17. 9 Piece - Rick Ross w/ Lil Wayne  (Gotta love that Maybach Music)
18. One More Cup of Coffee - The White Stripes
19. Izzo (H.O.V.A) - Jay-Z

Until tomorrow,  Justin.