2014 in Review

With a half marathon tomorrow, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.  It was my 1,900th consecutive day of running, which by coincidence occurred on the last day of 2014.  I'm still almost 600 days from equaling my longest streak.  When I broke my streak in 2009 and had to start over again, I thought, my God, I will be 75 years old when I get back to 6 years, 9 months and 18 days.  Darn, I'm 73 now and will be 74 in May.  My, how time flies.
Looking back over this year, I competed in 66 races:
Marathons - 2
25K -1
Half Marathons - 7
16K - 1
10 Miles - 8
10K - 5
5 Miles - 3
5K - 38
2 Miles - 1
No major injuries and I completed my goal of 101 marathons.

Tapering

With a half marathon on Thursday, I only ran 2 miles this evening.

Looking ahead

My next race is the Texas Half Marathon in Kingwood (near Houston) this Thursday, January 1.  I have run the full marathon there for the last seven years, but this will be my first half (2 loops instead of 4).  The forecast is for a high of 40 degrees and rain in the afternoon.  If that forecast holds, it should be good weather for running.  In the meantime, I ran 3 miles on the streets in town this evening.  It was around 50 degrees and no rain.  Very comfortable - except for achy knees, of course.

Hard to get off the couch

After watching football this afternoon, it was hard to get off the couch and go out and run in the 38 degree temperature and rain.  I ran 2 miles on the streets in town.  On the way home, I saw Dana (another streaker) out running.  She reaches the one-year mark at the end of this month.

Run the Woodlands 5K

My house was full of family last night.  People were up late and sleeping all over the house.  I figured they would be sleeping in this morning, so I got early, snuck out of the house and drove down to The Woodlands to run the Run the Woodlands 5K.  It was rather warm and very humid and I finished in 38:22.  I thought I was running faster.  Maybe it was the humidity - or maybe too much food yesterday.  In any case, I drove straight back to Huntsville and about half the family was still asleep when I got back.

Family day

After a quiet Christmas Day, we had a lot of family in today.  I managed to get in a 2-mile run in a light rain on the streets in town this afternoon.

Christmas Run

I ran 2 miles on the nearly deserted streets in town this afternoon.

Christmas Eve at the Park

This afternoon, I went out to the state park and ran 6.9 miles on the trails.  I only saw one other runner and two bikers on the trails.  Merry Christmas to all.

Back from Conroe

I had a doctor's appointment down in Conroe at 3:30 this afternoon, but had my running shorts on under my jeans.  I made it back to Huntsville and to the park at 4:30.  Only Jason and I showed up.  He ran 3 miles on the trails and I ran 2.  Then, I went to Iron Works for a work out.

Achy knees

I am past due for shots of Synvisc in my knees.  That's the stuff from a rooster's cone to ease the arthritis under my knee caps.  I have a doctor's appointment on January 12, but at least one more half marathon before then.  Today, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2 miles on the roads around the campus.

Santa Hustle Half Marathon

I ran the Santa Hustle Half Marathon in Galveston this morning.  I had never raced in Galveston and have not even been to the city in many years.  If I can count my 25K's, the Santa Hustle was my 50th half marathon and it was my 65th race in 2014.  Nice weather and a flat course, mostly along Seawall Blvd.  There were 1,351 finishers in the half and 2,852 in the 5K.  I finished in 2:48:20, which is my fastest half marathon since February of last year when I ran 2:48:04.  I picked up a finishers medal and then another medal for 3rd of 6 in the 70-74 age group.

Morning laps at the track

I went to the muddy track this morning and ran laps.  Now, off to Galveston for a half marathon tomorrow.

Rain last night and this morning

We received much needed rain last night and this morning.  I went out to the park later this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails.  The trails were in very good shape.  No sand pits and no mud.

Two at the park

It was me, Jacob and Curtis at the park this evening.  Speedy Jacob and Curtis ran 3 miles on the trails, while I ran 2 on the park roads.  I barely finished before them.

Started Christmas

Even though my wife has been Christmas shopping for a few days, I wrote the Christmas letter today, to be sent with cards and worked on the address list and mailing labels.  I also put up the Christmas tree.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran the PTA 5K course with the group, finishing after dark in a light and chilly rain.  Another half marathon coming up this weekend.

Done

I finally finished the greenhouse today, complete with a water faucet, light and an electrical outlet.  Now, I can move on to getting ready for Christmas.  After working out at Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park.  Jacob was there after running a 100-mile race over the weekend.  He and Becca ran 6.9 miles on the trails while I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  I'm not sure where or how far Jason ran.

2 easy miles

This morning, I went to Jacob Gautreaux's house to interview him and take his photo.  I featured him in my running column for tomorrow's Huntsville Item.  He ran his first 100-miler on Saturday,  After turning in my column early this afternoon, I went to Home Depot and then built the flooring for my wife's new greenhouse.  I hope to complete the project tomorrow and then get started on Christmas.
This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran an easy 2 miles around the campus.  In the last mile, I ran into fellow streaker, Dana Formon, and we had a nice visit.

BCS Half Marathon

I ran the BCS Half Marathon over in College Station this morning.  I have run the full the last 3 years, but this was my first time running the half.  Mentally, it was just as difficult as the full.  I never walked a step, but ran my usual slow pace.  For most of the race, I was back there with people running and walking, which to me is very annoying.  I swear I passed one lady 50 times.  In any case, I finished in 3:02:29.  I had hoped for about 2:55.  Maybe it was the relatively hot and humid weather.  I was 4th of 5 in my age group.

Reindeer Run and Jingle Bell Run

I got up early this morning and drove over to Lufkin to run the 3.3-mile Reindeer Run.  About half was on paved roads and the other half on trails.  Got a chance to visit with a several friends from that area who I had not seen for a while.  I finished in 39:08, which was good for second place in the 60 and over age group.  They also gave me an award for being the oldest runner.  I will sleep on it tonight.  Actually, it is a very nice Mattress Firm memory foam pillow.  After the race, I had breakfast at Cracker Barrel in Lufkin and then drove 40-something miles south to Livingston to run the Jingle Bell 5K at 1 p.m.  Again, I got to visit with some old friends.  I finished the race in 35:42.  Then, I drove back to Huntsville (total miles 180 for the trip) and finished up the electrical part of the greenhouse.  The light worked and no one got shocked.  Early to bed tonight.  I have to get up at 4:45 in the morning for a 7 a.m. start at the BCS Half Marathon in College Station.

Restful Friday

Except for filling in the ditch for the power and water lines to my wife's new greenhouse, I had a rather restful Friday.  I have two 5K races tomorrow and a half marathon on Sunday.  So, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Continuation with the greenhouse

I finished running the power line to the greenhouse today.  With the shopping at Home Depot, that took most of the day.  Next is filling in the ditch.  We had a running club officer meeting this evening, so I went to Iron Works earlier than normal and then ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Tired

I put the drive belt back on the trencher this morning, but it kept coming off.  I went to the store and bought a new belt and then spent about 2 hours trying to dig the trench to the greenhouse.  The ground is hard black clay.  I finally gave up and loaded the trencher and took it back to the rental place.  They reimbursed me for the belt and tried to give me half my rental fee back.  Anyway, I refused the refund and went home and dug the rest of the trench by hand.  Then, I laid the water line  Next is the conduit with the power line, which I will do tomorrow.  I rested for 30 minutes and then met the group at PTA for our Wednesday group run.  I intended to only run a mile or so, but ended up doing the regular 5K course.

Still working on the greenhouse

I mentioned several times about erecting my wife's new greenhouse.  Once it was up and all the shelves were built, I had to start running underground power and water lines to the greenhouse.  Today, I rented a trencher to dig the trench for the underground lines.  After an hour of digging (like operating a rotor tiller on concrete), it quit working.  I called the guy from the rental place and he was suppose to come and look at it.  He never did.  I determined that the belt came off under the housing.  I called him and he agreed that I could fix it tomorrow.  In the meantime, I did a lot of manual digging.  Hopefully, tomorrow, I can get it going and finish the trenches.  Then, I can install all the pipes and conduits with the wire. After plenty of upper body exercise, I was beat this evening.  I skipped Iron Works and went to the park and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Ran through a demonstration

I ran 2 miles around town this evening.  After making a turn onto the sidewalk along Sam Houston Avenue, I ran into a 100 or so "anti-police" marchers going the opposite way on the sidewalk.  They were chanting and carrying signs.  I stayed on the sidewalk and kept running through the crowd until they all passed me.

Texas 10 Conroe and Sunday Night 5K

I went down to Conroe this morning and ran the Texas 10 Series Conroe 10-Miler.  This was the last of a series of seven 10-mile races in different cities in Texas in 2014.  I ran all 7 and all 3 last year.  For the second year, I won the series Armadillo Cup for the 70 and over age group.  So, I will receive a trophy and $250 in cash.  Nice.  For running all 7 this year, I will receive a backpack.  Today, I ran 2:09:47 and got 2nd in my age group.  Someone misplaced at least one of the turnaround points and the course was a little long.  My GPS said it was 10.2 and others said 10.3.
After getting back home, I took a shower and a nap, worked on posting race results on the club web site and then drove down to The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K.  My friend, Jon Walk, who was the announcer at the race this morning, ran with me and we had a nice visit.  We finished in 38:00.

Laps, again

I ran laps again at the track today to give my sore knees a rest.  Two races tomorrow.

Time for another Synvisc injection

My knees have really been sore lately, so it must be time for another Synvisc injection in my knees.  It is basically the stuff from a rooster's cone and "oils the knees."  I will call Monday for an appointment.  In the meantime, I went over to the track this evening and ran laps and then worked out at Iron Works.

Waterway Jingle Bell Run

Tonight, I ran the Waterway Jingle Bell Run in The Woodlands.  Due to construction in the waterway area, the course was a different than in previous years.  Most of the course was on the streets, rather than along the waterway.  The distance was 5K.  It was not timed, so I am not sure what my time was.  Anyway, I have run it all 8 years that it has been held.

PTA 5K Course

This evening, I ran the 5K course, starting and finishing in front of Physical Therapy Associates (PTA).

Staples out

Today was the 7th day since I cut my head erecting my wife's new greenhouse and had staples put in at the emergency room.  As I was leaving the emergency room, they gave me a staple remover, which my wife used to take the staples out (after she went online to find out how to use it).  I spent much of the day building racks, shelves, beds or whatever you call them for the greenhouse.  This evening, I ran 2 miles on the streets in town and then worked out at Iron Works.

Just me and Monica

The park is closed tomorrow for controlled hunting, so we rescheduled our group run for this evening.  It was rather cold and only Monica and I showed up.  We ran 3 miles on the trails.

Sunday at the park

After church, lunch at Carbonero and the Texans game, I went out to the park and ran 4 miles on the trails.

Leftover Turkey 10K

I joined over 60 other runners this morning in Huntsville to run our club's annual Leftover Turkey Run (10K, 5K, 1-Mile).  I finished the 10K in 1:23:16.  A little slower than last year and much slower than I expected.  The entire course is up or down hills and I ate too much yesterday.  Maybe my slow time was a combination of both.

Finished the darn greenhouse

With the help of two of my visiting sons, I finished the greenhouse today.  Still have some work to do.  I have to do some digging to level the ground where it will be placed, build plant racks inside and flooring.  Then, I have to run a water line and electricity to the greenhouse.  That will be fun.
Late this afternoon, I took a break and ran 1.3 miles on the roads.  10K in the morning.

Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler

Julia, Jill and I drove down to The Woodlands this morning to run the Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler.  It was my 13th consecutive year for running this race.  I finished in 1:00:47 (5th of 8 in the 70-74 age group).  Then, it was back to Huntsville to be with a lot of family and food.  Happy Thanksgiving.

Ready for Thanksgiving

We have family in for Thanksgiving, so early this afternoon I worked out at Iron Works and ran 2 miles on the roads in town.  Headed for The Woodlands tomorrow morning for a 5-miler.

Trip to the emergency room

This afternoon, I was installing the metal rafters on my wife's new greenhouse.  One fell on my head and made a 1-inch incision.  I could not see it, but felt the blood.  I decided to go see the nurse in my regular doctor's office.  She looked at it and told me to go to the emergency room.  I was in the waiting room for 2 1/2 hours and in the treatment room for another hour.  They put in 2 staples and gave me a staple remover to remove them in 7 days.  Since it was all my wife's fault (she wanted the greenhouse), she will have the privilege of removing them.  They also gave me a tetanus shot.
There was a large family (number and size) in the waiting room to support their mother, who just suffered stroke.  It got to be supper time and one of them made a run to Whataburger.  They all ordered hamburgers with large fries.  I wanted to say something, but I kept my mouth shut.
I finally got around to running at 9 tonight.  I went to the track and ran laps.

Minor hamstring issue

Several days ago, I tweaked my right hamstring.  So, I am trying to take it easy this week and hopefully be okay for the long runs next month.  After working out at Iron Works this evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Sunday at the park

I spent much of the day continuing to work on putting together my wife's new greenhouse, but I did take time to watch the Texans and Cowboys games and run 3 miles on the roads at the state park.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I drove down to The Woodlands this morning to run the twice-a-month Run the Woodlands 5K.  I finished in 35:30, my fastest 5K in several months.  While down there, I picked up some stuff for my wife from Trader Joes, had breakfast at Skeeters, bought a pair of running shoes from Luke's Locker and then picked up some stuff for my wife at Michael's.  Then, I went to the Sam Houston - Central Arkansas football game here in Huntsville.  It rained some during the second half, but the heavy rain came later this evening.

Rainy Friday

I bought my wife a 8 x 10 green house for Christmas.  It was delivered in a box a couple days ago.  The advertisement said that it should take 2 to 3 hours to put it together.  Not so.  I worked on it for about 10 hours today and I am only about a third finished.  It rained all day, so I worked on it in my garage.  At some point, I need to move it to the back yard.  I took a break this evening and ran 1.2 miles on the road - in the rain.  5K tomorrow.

Back from Dallas

I drove up to Dallas early yesterday morning to meet up with other family members to be there for my sister's serious operation.  All went well and I was able to slip out for 1.2-mile run in the hospital area and a shower.  I got back to Huntsville after dark this evening, so I went to the track to run laps.  Two friends, Amy and Ashley, got there at the same time and I ran 3 miles with them.  They will be running their first marathon in San Antonio in a couple weeks.

Post 2,200

Gosh, I just noticed that I reached a milestone today.  This will be my 2,200th post.  Only 3 of us showed up in the cold at the park this evening, me, Jacob and Jason.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Still cold

It was in the 40's when I went out to run this afternoon.  It's really hard to get motivated when it cold, but once you start running, it's okay.  I ran an unplanned route in the avenues and it turned out to be 3.2 miles.

Hard to get off the couch

After church, dining out and watching the Texans game, it was hard to get off the courch and go run, especially since it was cold with a light rain.  However, I did got out and run 2 miles on the roads in town.

No race Saturday

This was one of the few Saturdays of the year, I did not have a race.  So, I went out to the park late this morning and ran 8 miles on the trails.  Nice cold and dry weather.

Freedom Run

I ran the Freedom Run on campus tonight.  It was put on by a fraternity and was billed as a 5K.  It turned out to be 1.98 miles, according to my GPS.  Lots of up and down steps around the campus.  They did not time the race, nor were there awards.  According to my watch, my time was 23:42.  No races this weekend.

Early park run

We had a running club meeting tonight, so I went out to the park earlier this afternoon to run trails.  It was 44 degees and windy.  Just to do something different, I drove to a different trail head and ran from there.  I ran 3 miles.  Is is suppose to get down to 27 tonight.  I don't remember it getting this cold in Huntsville this early.

Almost freezing

It is in the 30's now and is suppose to get down to 31 tonight, even colder tomorrow night.  And, it barely mid-November.  Instead of running from the church on Wednesday evenings, we moved to Physical Therapy Associates, behind the hospital.  The courses from there are virtually all on sidewalks.  Four of us showed up this evening, me, Jose, Darren and Monica.  I ran 3.3 miles.

It got cold all of a sudden

Winter is here.  The temperature dropped during the day and is suppose to get down to 35 tonight, even colder within the next few days.  Only James, Jacob and I showed up at the park this evening.  I ran 3.5 miles on the trails.

Feeling better

I felt better today.  I mowed the yard (maybe for the last time this season), ran 4 miles on the trails at the park and worked out at Iron Works.

Sinus congestion is not getting better

I drove up to Tyler yesterday afternoon for a family think last night and drove back to Huntsville this afternoon.  With the sinus congestion and headache, I really felt lousy all day.  I went to the track and ran laps.  Tonight, we went out for Mexican food and I piled Jalapeno peppers on top of my enchiladas.  Maybe that will clear my sinuses.

Veteran's Day 10K

I ran the Team RWB Veteran's Day 10K in The Woodlands this morning.  Nice weather and a lot of friends.  I finished in 1:16:59.

Laps

Since my sinus congestion is still bad, it's Friday and I have a 10K in the morning, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Still felt lousy today

The sinus blockage continued, even though I took some decongestants this morning.  Late this morning, I drove down to The Woodlands to pick up my packet for a 10K on Saturday.  I combined the trip with some other stops I had to make down there.  I got back in time to work out at Iron Works and then meet the group at the park at 4:30.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Fighting sinus blockage

I have been fighting sinus blockages all day.  It rained about all day and I really felt lousy.  However, I did work out at Iron Works today and run 2 miles on the roads in town - in the rain.

Park, twice

The race director of last Saturday's Rocky Raccoon Trail Run asked me to remove a couple miles of flagging on the trails.  So, I did that this morning, but only a 2-mile walk  I spent most of the afternoon unloading a huge trailer of compost from the Monterrey Mushrooms in Madisonville.  I must have shoveled 50 wheel barrow loads of the stuff.  So much so, that I decided not to go to Iron Works and lift weights.  I did go back out to the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the trails - in the rain.

Busy day

For being retired, I had a busy day.  Most of the morning, I worked on my column for the Huntsville Item and had a lot of errands to run.  I finally got in a short run (1.3 miles) on the roads in town.

Texas 10 Series Katy, Sunday Night 5K, 750

My low battery alarm in the bedroom smoke detector went off at 2:30 this morning.  It woke me up and I spent about an hour looking around for a replacement battery.  I could not find one and finally went back to sleep in another bedroom with the door closed.  So, I lost that one hour we gained by the time change.  I got up at 4:30 and drove to Katy (west of Houston) to run the Texas 10 Series Katy 10-Miler.  Just as yesterday, the weather was beautiful, mid-40's at the start and clear.  I finished in 2:06.32, which was good for 3rd place in the 70 and over age group.  My niece lives in Katy and we went to IHOP after the race.  I did not get home until after 2 this afternoon.  I managed to get in a 15-minute nap before Julia Buck and I headed down to The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K.  My friend, Jon Walk, and I ran it together and had a nice visit.  We finished in 36:26.  It was my 750th race.  My first race was the Night Fighters 10K at Fort Hood on May 1, 1983.  I finished in 1:03:00.

Rocky Raccoon 25K

I ran the Rocky Raccoon 25K at Huntsville State Park this morning.  It was 41 degrees at the start and at least cool, sunny and dry all day.  Just perfect running weather.  I ran every step of the race, but tripped over roots and fell five times.  I have two skinned up knees, one elbow and two spots on my hand.  I am really sore tonight, not from running, but from falling.  I finished in 4:12:00, a little better than last year.  Enjoyed visiting with a lot of friends.  While on the trail, a guy on a bike going in the opposite direction called me by name, but I had no idea who he was.  He circled back.  It turned out to be Jim Sawyer of Center, Texas.  We were officers in the same running club in Tyler, Texas - 30 years ago.  We have visited occasionally over the years, but I have not seen him for several years.

Getting ready for tomorrow

Mark Robinson and I went out to the back side of Huntsville State Park this afternoon and set up our club's aid station for tomorrow's Rocky Raccoon Trail Run.  While there, I picked up my packet for the 25K.  Not sure why, but I got bib number 1.  It was sure not for winning the race last year.  In between a lot of other things I had to do, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

East two

My wife and I had an appointment this evening for church photos, so I never made it to the park.  Earlier this afternoon, I ran 2 easy miles around the campus.

Last church run for a while

I ran the 5K course on campus this evening, starting and finishing at the church on Sycamore.  Since it is sorta dangerous running the streets on campus after dark, starting next week our Wednesday evening runs will be on the sidewalk along Veterans Memorial Blvd.  Nice, cool running weather this evening and the weather for the races this weekend should be cool and dry.

Tapering the rest of the week

This weekend, I have three races.  a 25K Saturday and a 10-miler and a 5K on Sunday.  I ran 4.8 miles on the trails this evening and will taper for the next three days.  Happy 47th anniversary to me and my wife.

Late post

I was messing around on the computer and just realized that I forgot to post today.  I was thinking it was my wife and I's 47th anniversary today and went to the store and bought some flowers while she was out.  She thanked me for the flowers, but reminded me that our anniversary is tomorrow.  Guess I have been running too much lately.  In any case, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town this evening.

I'm getting good

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 9 miles on the trails without falling once.  I'm getting good.

Willis Volleyball 5K Trail Run

My friend, Robyn Sproba, from Willis asked me to run the Willis Volleyball 5K, a race that she was directing.  The weather was perfect and the race was on trails at a ranch just east of I-45 between Willis and Conroe.  The course was relatively flat and the grass freshly mowed.  I finished in 37:57, but there was no age group competition.  When I got back to Huntsville, I took a nap and then went to the Sam Houston State football game.

Easy Friday

I spent much of the day working on the financial report for the Huntsville Half Marathon.  I also had an interview with a student doing her Masters Thesis on the Texas Prison Museum, which I got started back in the 1980's.  Then, I ran laps at the track.  Tomorrow, I have a 5K and then 3 races next weekend, 25K, 10-Mile and a 5K.

Same as Tuesday

Just like Tuesday of this week, I ran 3 miles on the roads at the park.

5K in parts

I met up with the group this evening to run the 5K course on campus.  About half way, I ran into Amy Moyer, who I ran part of the half marathon with last Saturday.  We both interrupted our runs and had a nice visit.  Then, Dana Formon, came by and joined the visit.  So, my run this evening was in two parts.

Park roads

After Iron Works this evening, I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  Nice, clear and cool weather this week.

Busy Monday

After, getting and installing a new battery for my wife's car and doing some yard work, I wrote my column on running for the Huntsville Item for tomorrow's paper.  That required contacting and interviewing most of the winners for the Huntsville Half & Quarter Marathon & 5K last Saturday.  Then, as the club treasurer, I had to work on race finances. I worked out at Iron Works this evening and then ran an unplanned route on the roads in the avenues.  The course turned out to be 3.4 miles.

Started new 5-year streak

After completing 5 years on my current streak yesterday, I started the next 5 years today.  This afternoon, I ran 2 miles on the streets around the university.

Huntsville Half Marathon - 5 Years

I ran the Huntsville Half Marathon this morning and finished in 2:54:02 (2nd in age group).  Today was my 1,826th consecutive day of running.  That’s exactly 5 years.  On October 14, 2009, I broke a running streak of 6 years, 9 months and 18 days due to a knee injury, which turned out to be an 80 percent tear of the quadriceps where they connect to my left knee.  No surgery, but I missed 4 days.  I started my new streak on October 19 at age 68.  During the last 5 years, I have run 312 races (average 62 a year).  These include 1-50 miler, 7-50K’s (31 miles), 50 marathons (26.2 miles), 4-25K’s and 15 half marathons.  To all my running friends and my wife, thank you for your support and encouragement.  Streak on.

Further tapering

Resting up for the hilly half tomorrow.  I went to the track this morning and ran laps.

Tapering

I am running the hilly Huntsville Half Marathon this Saturday, so I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park this evening.

Church 5K

The beautiful weather continues.  I met up with the group at the church this evening and ran the 5K course around the campus.

Extended ideal running weather

Beautiful day.  Clear and cool.  Only four of us showed up at the park this evening.  Jason and Julia ran 4+ miles and James and I ran 3 miles on the trails.

Wasted weather

After a storm came through Huntsville this morning, the afternoon was clear and cool, with a nice breeze.  Perfect weather for a long run.  Since I ran two 10-milers this weekend, I decided to waste the weather and run only 2 miles on the roads.

Texas 10 Series Fort Worth

We went to Jose and Haley's wedding at 4 pm. yesterday in Trinity.  About 5:30 pm, we left for Fort Worth to run the Texas 10 Series Fort Worth 10-Miler this morning.  It was a little cooler this morning, compared to The Woodlands yesterday.  I finished in 2:07:25.  That is 13 seconds slower than yesterday.  In any case, it was good enough for 1st place in the 70 and over age group.  Of course, there was no one else in my age group.  So, I picked up a nice finishers medal, age group award and a free entry into the same race next year.  Can't beat that.  After the race and a shower at the hotel, my wife and I went down to the Fort Worth Stockyards.  We walked around a bit and had lunch at one of the streak houses there.

10 for Texas

I ran the 10 for Texas in The Woodlands this morning.  I ran this 10-mile race back in the late 80's and early 90's and then it went away until several years ago.  This was my first chance to run it again.  It was a little hot, but it rained some during the race and that felt good.  I finished in 2:07:12. and was 7 of 9 in the 70 and over age group.  Got to visit with a lot of friends and there was plenty of food.

Friday laps

As I do on many Fridays, I went to the track today and ran laps.  Later, I drove down to The Woodlands to pick up my packet for the race tomorrow.

Three with Marissa

I ran 3 miles on the park roads with Marissa this evening.  She ran with us years ago and is getting back into it.  Glad to have her back.

Early run, again

I had a meeting at 6 this evening, so I worked out at Iron Works early and then ran 2 miles on the road in a new pair of shoes.  I need to break them in before two 10-mile races this weekend.

Early park run

I had a social engagement at 6 p.m., so I worked out early at Iron Works and then ran 3.5 miles on the trails at the park.

2 Miles

After running 16.1 miles yesterday, I took it easy today and ran 2 miles around the campus.

Tyler Rose Half Marathon & Sunday Night 5K

From Wylie, I drove a couple hours to Tyler to run the Tyler Rose Half Marathon this morning.  Nice weather, relative cool and breezy.  The course is hilly and lots of brick streets (hate to run on those).  I felt strong the entire race and passed a lot of people in the last few miles.  I finished in 2:50:56, a big improvement over the half marathon in Waco a couple weeks ago.  I was 4th of 5 in the 70 and over age group.  I then made the two and a half hour drive back to Huntsville and then drove down to The Woodlands this evening for the Sunday Night 5K.  There was some other activity at the school where they have the race and they had to cut the distance to 3 miles.  I did not complain.  I was sore and stiff the first mile, but felt comfortable after that.  I finished in 34:22.  I will sleep well tonight.

St. Anthony's Fall Festival 5K

I ran the St. Anthony's Fall Festival 5K in Wylie (northeast of Dallas) this morning, for the 6th straight year, I think.  It was cool and clear morning and the course was relatively flat.  I finished in 35 minutes something and won 2nd in the 65 and older age group.
Today was my 1,812th consecutive day of running, surpassing my old second longest streak of 1,811 days.

Friday rest day

With at least 2 races this weekend, I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  The "cold" front came through last night and it was cool and clear.  Hopefully, it will stay that way for the weekend.

New trail runners

Marissa Padilla, who ran trails with us years ago, was back at the park this evening.  She brought Liz Berger for her first trail run at the park.  Gerald Johnson showed up too, as well as our regular, Jacob Gautreaux.  We all ran 3.5 miles on the trails.

Abbreviated church run

After Iron Works this evening, I met the group at the church and ran 2.7 miles on the road, shorter than the normal 5K course.

Lab results

I received a call from the doctor's office this morning to inform me that all the lab tests from my physical came back normal.  That's good news.  I spent much of the day unpacking and checking a zillion trophies for the upcoming Huntsville Half & Quarter Marathon & 5K.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 7 miles on the trails at the park.

Annual Physical

I had my annual physical this morning.  My blood pressure was a little high (the first number), so I have to check it a couple times a week for a while.  My pulse rate was 47 and he said everything else looked good.  Now, I wait on the lab results.
Worked out at Iron Works this evening and then ran 2.9 miles on the streets in town.

Back from Tyler

I ran laps Friday morning before heading up to Tyler for my high school class reunion (class of 59).  Attended a reception Friday night and a men's breakfast Saturday morning.  I visited family most of the day on Saturday, but did go for a 3.8-mile run on a running trail later on Saturday.  Then, I attended the reunion dinner at the country club Saturday night.  Drove back to Huntsville this afternoon and got in a 2-mile run on the streets in town.  Now that the Cowboys stomped the Saints, it is time to catch up on my emails and updating the club web site.

Just Julia and I

Only Julia and I showed up at the park this evening.  James and Curtis had run earlier and were leaving as we got there.  Speedy Julia went around the lake, while I ran 3.5 miles on the trails.

Did not get the word

I went to the church at 6 this evening to run with the group.  They moved the time to 5:30 and I missed it somehow.  Anyway, I ran the 5K course through the campus and ran into them on their way back.

Dose

I looked at my bottle of antibiotics today, wondering how come I had so many left.  I have been taking 2 a day since last Wednesday.  Guess I should have read the instructions.  It says take 2 twice a day.  So, I have been taking half the prescribed dose.  Oh well, the fever is long gone, anyway.
I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 4.1 miles on the trails.  Cooler temperatures today.

1,800 days

I felt fully recovered today after the race yesterday.  I mowed the yard, worked out at Iron Works and ran 2 miles on the roads in town.  This was my 1,800th consecutive day of running.

Texas Road Romp Half Marathon

It was hot and humid in Waco this morning.  We started the Texas Road Romp Half Marathon in front of the Convention Center, the same place as the Miracle Match Marathon, which I have run several times.  There were about 250 runners for the half event.  The first couple of miles were flat and then the next six miles through Cameron Park and McClennan College were extremely hilly.  I was getting a little dizzy at one point and then made sure I took on plenty of fluids.  I was completed soaked in sweat and had sweat sloshing in my shoes.  When we finally got out of the hills around mile nine, the last four miles was along the road and on the sidewalk along the river, with the sun beating down and virtually no shade.  I was worried about overheating and walked some.  My normal finish time should have been right at 3 hours.  Not surprisingly, I finished in 3:18:30.  I was the only one in the race over 70, so I picked up a nice 1st place in age group plaque.  I then made the 2-hour+ drive back to Huntsville.  I stopped twice to buy and drink more water.

Resting for Waco

I went over to the track this morning and ran laps.  Headed to Waco this afternoon for the half marathon tomorrow.

5K Course

Early this afternoon, I ran the Iron Works 5K course through my old sub-division, Forest Hills.  We used that course for our club run in July.
I was looking for something in the Running of the Bears 5K results from Sunday.  At the race, I was announced as 2nd in my age group and given a 2nd place trophy.  The next day, the online results were modified and I went to 3rd place.  Since then, I have been moved back to 2nd.

No more fever

I slept better last night and felt better all day.  No fever.  I tried to get back to a normal routine.  Worked out at Iron Works and then went to the park.  It was raining, but five of us still showed up.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Finally went to the doctor

I had a rough night last night with high fever and a sore throat.  I called my doctor at 8 this morning and got an appointment for 9 a.m.  He prescribed antibiotics and to this late hour, they have not kicked in.  I pretty much stayed in bed all day.  I did go to the track this evening and run one mile, but it was not much fun.  I have a half marathon to run on Sunday, so I have 3 days to recover.

Fever day two

The fever is still around.  I took Tylenol this morning and was able to mow the lawn.  This evening, the fever was back up.  I skipped Iron Works, but did got out to the park and run 1.2 miles on the trails, mostly in the rain.  I probably need to make an appointment with my doctor.  Half marathon in Waco next Sunday and I had hoped to get a 11-mile run in today.

Fever

I worked out this evening at Iron Works and then ran 2 miles on the streets.  I did not feel like running, but I figured it was mental from the busy weekend.  After getting home this evening and having supper, I sat on the couch to watch Monday Night Football.  Then, I felt a fever, which turned out to be over 100.  I'm not sure what it is.  I get a sinus infection every two years and that is the only time I get a fever.  My sinuses feel clear.  Hopefully, I will be okay tomorrow morning.

Running of the Bulls 5K

Marilynn and I got up early this morning and drove down to Houston for the Running of the Bulls 5K, put on my the Houston Texans.  It started outside of what use to be NRG Stadium and finished inside.  Nice weather, about 70 degrees.  There were 6,000 runners and walkers and too many baby strollers.  It was slow going for the first mile until the crowd thinned out.  I finished in 37:42 and got a trophy for 3rd of 9 in the 70 & over age group.  Marilynn walked the 5K.

Gruene 10K

It was 62 degrees this morning over in New Braunfels for the start of the Gruene 10K.  The race started and finished in front of the oldest Beer Hall in Texas, Gruene Hall.  This was my 4th straight year for running this race.  I finished in 1:18:40, which was good enough for 1st of 2 in my age group.  The unusually cool weather felt great; even the light rain during the last mile was welcome.

Rest day

I ran laps at the track this morning.  Well rested for my 10K tomorrow.

Looking ahead to Saturday

It was 96 degrees in Huntsville today.  With a "cool" front coming in this weekend, it may be the last hot day of the summer.  I am running a 10K in New Braunfels on Saturday and the temperature is suppose to be around 70 at the start.  Sounds good, but there is a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms that morning.  We'll see.  In the meantime, I ran 3 miles on the trails at Huntsville State Park this evening.

A little beat

I was a little beat from the trail run yesterday in the heat, but I met up with the group this evening and ran the 5K course on campus.

Ahead of the group

After Iron Works this evening, I went out to the park ahead of the group and ran 6.9 miles on the trails alone.  Nice run, but it was hot and humid and I fell in the dirt during the last mile after I was good and sweaty.

Back to Monday

After doing yard work most of the afternoon, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2.7 miles on the streets in town.  Sort of a typical Monday.

Sunday Night 5K

Julia Buck and I drove down to The Woodlands this evening to run the Sunday Night 5K.  Donna Fabian and Curtis Barton from our club were there too.  There was a light rain during the race and that helped cool things down a bit.  My friend, Jon Walk, and I ran together and finished in 36:45.  He slowed down some to keep up with me.

No race today

No good races nearby today.  I did a short 1.3-mile run on the streets in town this afternoon.  I ran past a funeral home and there was a hearse driver standing next to his hearse.  He offered me a ride.  I could just not think of a comeback for that.

Unusual Friday park run

Usually, I do a short run on Friday and race on Saturday.  However, no race tomorrow and this afternoon I had to take someone down to the Houston airport.  So, at 11 this morning, I went out to the park and ran 7 miles on the trails.  The temperature was in the low 90's and, as usual, the humidity was high.

Milestones

I went out to the park this evening and no other runners showed up.  That is unusual.  In any case, I ran 3 miles on the park roads and went home.  Today was my 1,782nd consecutive day of running.  The 1,800-day milestone will be reached on September 22.  More importantly, on October 4, I will be at 1,812 days, surpassing my 2nd longest streak.  Then, I will reach 5 years on October 18.  I will be running the Huntsville Half Marathon that day.

It was not suppose to rain today, but it did

This afternoon, we got a little rain after a forecast of none.  It was still not enough to close the cracks in my yard after a very dry August.  After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the church and ran the 5K course around the campus.  With classes back in session, the traffic on the course is much heavier.

Sad news

After I got home this evening from Iron Works and running 3 miles on the trails at the park, I heard the news that one of our club members, Joan Pickering, was killed today when she was hit by a truck while running here in Huntsville.  I do not know the details yet, but I feel deep sorrow.  Six years ago, we had another runner and a good friend of mine, struck and killed while running in Huntsville.

Unplanned route

Since it was a holiday, Iron Works was closed today.  I ran an unplanned route in the avenues this evening and it turned out to be 2.1 miles.

Nine

It rained hard while we were in church this morning.  It looked like there was a break in the rain about 2 p.m., so I went out to the park to run trails.  However, the park was dry as a bone and the sand on parts of the trail was deep.  I ran 9 miles.  No falls, but I tripped on the roots several times.

Back in Huntsville

I drove back to Huntsville this afternoon.  I worked on the running club web site and then ran laps at the track.  Then off to the Sam Houston State and Alabama State football game here in Huntsville. (51-20 Sam).

Back to the park in Plano

I went back to the same park in Plano this evening and followed one trail until it ended in 1.5 miles.  With the out and back, I got in a 3-mile run.

Park run in Plano

It was hot this afternoon and I was a little tired from the long run last night, so I went to a park in Plano and ran 1.6 miles on a paved trail.

Daylight to Darkness 5 Miler

I drove up to Dallas this afternoon to run the Daylight to Darkness 5 Miler this evening.  The whole course was in the White Rock Lake area.  I missed a turn somewhere and got lost during the race.  I asked a couple guys out running for directions and they told assured me that I was lost and headed in the wrong direction.  One of them said that he would run with me to get me back on track.  He ended up running with me to the finish line.  Nice guy.  According to my GPS, I ran 7.1 miles in 1:29:16.  There was only 3 of us in the 70-74 age group, so I got 3rd.

Park roads

Wearing new shoes out of the box, I ran 3 miles on the park roads this evening.  My last pair were first worn on July 1, 2014, so they lasted less than 2 months.

Avenues 5K Course

I worked out at Iron Works rather late this evening and then ran the hilly Avenues 5K course, starting and finishing at the track.  With all the students back in town, the streets are crowded again; not so much on the Avenues 5K course, though.

Family and eating all day

I had family in all day and there was a lot of eating.  I finally broke away late this evening and ran 1.3 miles on the roads.  It should have been a day when I went to the park and ran long.

Heat Wave 5K

I drove about 30 miles to the Waterwood Sub-division east of Huntsville this morning to run the club's annual Heat Wave 5K.  New location and a great course.  It was hot, but shady most of the way.  The course had a couple hills, but was mostly flat.  I finished in 36:28.

Short road run

I went out when it was 96 degrees this afternoon and ran 1.3 miles on the roads;  5K in the morning.

Small group at the park

When I got to the park this evening, I was a group of one.  However, Hans and John were there to bike.  I ran 3 miles on the trails.  Just as I finished, Jason showed up to run.

Little rain

I sat on the back porch this afternoon to watch it rain for a few minutes.  My rain gauge indications about 1/16th of an inch.  Well, maybe tomorrow.  After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group and ran the 5K course from the church.  At least, the light rain lowered the temperature a few degrees.

Rainy run at the park

It was just J. C., Sara, Jason and I who showed up at the park this evening in the rain and lightning.  I ran 3 miles on the trails and survived.  However, virtually no rain at my house.

Running roads

This morning, I worked on my column for tomorrow's paper and sent it in early this afternoon.  I wrote about Texas laws that pertain to running on the road.  With school about to be back in session, there will be plenty of traffic on the streets for runners to contend with.  I wrote about this subject 6 years ago and not long afterwards, a good friend of mine was struck and killed by a vehicle while he was on a training run.  With so many drivers talking and texting, it is really scary for runners.
This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Sunday at the park

I went out to the park about noon today and ran 7 miles on the trails.  The temperature was in the high 90's and I was soaked with sweat when I took a fall in the dirt and sand in the last mile.  Talk about getting dirty.

Watermelon Run for the Fallen 5K

I drove an hour over to Hempstead this morning to run the Watermelon Run for the Fallen.  It is a non-competitive run to honor our fallen military heroes.  Jill and Kelly were there too.  A number of military ceremonies started about 7 a.m. and the race did not start until almost 9 a.m.  There were hundreds of runners and walkers.  Everyone was required to walk two laps around the track after the start.  After that, the runners left the gate and ran a course to downtown Hempstead.  According to my GPS, it was 2.8 from the gate to the finish line and my time was 33:50.  I ate plenty of watermelon after the race and met up with a lot of friends.  Several of the Team RWB from Houston that carried flags and accompanied me on the 101st and last marathon in February of this year were there.

Short Friday run

As I do on many Fridays with a race on Saturday, I did a short run today.  I ran 1.3 miles on the streets in town early this afternoon.

Expired

This morning, I went to the optometry place to order more contacts.  The lady pulled my file and said, "According to our records, you have expired."  I assured her that I was still alive and she said that she meant that my prescription had expired.  So, I get an eye exam and a new prescription next week.
Except for being expired, I felt much better today.  I worked out a Iron Works and then ran 3.5 miles on the trails at the park this evening.

Did not feel well today

I did not feel well today, just laid around most of the time.  And, for some reason, my shoulder and neck was sore.  I skipped Iron Works, but met up with the group at the church this evening with the intention of only running a mile or so.  Once I started running, I felt better and ended up running 2.7 miles.

Longer run

After working out at Iron Works, I went out to the park and ran the 6.9-mile outer loop alone.  The temperature was 95, but I carried water and managed okay.

Finally, a little rain

We finally got a little rain this evening.  Not much, less than a quarter inch.  Hopefully, more tonight.  However, it was dry for my evening run.  After Iron Works, I ran an unplanned route on the streets around town.  The course turned out to be 3 miles.

More moving

This afternoon, I made two 60-mile round trips to Waterwood to pick up furniture my son had in storage and move it to his new place in Huntsville.  I got around to running 2 miles on the roads in town late this evening.

Blues Capital of Texas 5K

I got up at 5:30 this morning to make it to Navasota to run the Blues Capital of Texas 5K at 7:30 a.m.  Hot and humid!  The course was obviously short.  There is no excuse for that.  My GPS said 2.96.  My finish time was 34:18.  I would like to think that I am getting fast, but I do not think that is the case.  I was 4th in the 60 and over age group.  After the race, a bunch of us went to a Mexican restaurant in Navasota for breakfast.

Laps this morning

With a race tomorrow morning, I went to the track and ran laps today.

Getting hotter

The temperature was up to 96 today and is suppose to be 100 by Monday.  It was not much below 96 when we ran at the park this evening.  I felt well again and ran 4.6 miles on the trails.

Shorter Wednesday run

I met up with the group at the church this evening.  I ran with Denise.  Her foot was hurting and my stomach was queasy.  So, we ran 2.7 miles, rather than the normal 5K.

Not well today

I am not sure if it was all the heavy lifting yesterday, but I did not feel well today.  I mowed the grass this morning and then took a nap most of the afternoon.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.  I am sure I will be okay tomorrow.

Tired

This afternoon, my son got the 15 staples taken out of his elbow that were put in after surgery about 10 days ago.  He had all his stuff in a large U-Haul truck parked in my driveway for a couple of days until his got the final approval to move to his new place.  He finally got the keys to his new place about 4:30 this afternoon and I had to help him unload the whole truck.  His friends that loaded the truck for him were all at work or out of town.  So, I did all the heavy lifting and carrying.  He had to return the truck by 6 p.m., so we had to work fast.  I got home and collapsed for a while before going on a 2-mile road run.  It felt like a half marathon.  I never made it to Iron Works today; I suppose that I got my lifting in.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 52nd time, I went down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 36:09.

Cool weather in August

The high temperature today was only 83.  Here it is August and the temperature has not reached 100 all summer.  My visiting family left late this morning.  This afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 3.5 miles on the trails.  There were quite a few bikers and hikers on the trails.

Day with visiting family

I spent all day with visiting family.  Late this afternoon, I slipped away and went to the park and ran 2.9 miles on the trails.  My son's fiancee's father from San Diego went out with me and hiked while I ran.

Early run

I had family coming in this evening, so I went into town and ran 1.3 miles on the roads early this afternoon.

1,746 days

Today was my 1,746th consecutive day of running.  I am getting close to matching my second longest streak of 1,811 days.  I did yard work most of the day and then ran the 5K course with the group tonight.  It was hot, but it usually is in Texas in late July.

4.6

We had a good group at the park this evening.  I ran 4.6 miles on the trails.  It was actually my longest distance in a couple of months.  I usually start stretching my distance in August for the longer fall races.  With no more marathons to run, it will be an easier transition to half marathons and such.

Park on Monday

I usually go to the park to run on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  However, Jacob and Sara were going to run trails this evening.  While they were on the trails, I took to the park roads for my 3-mile course.  One part of the course was barricaded, so I had to detour.  I probably ended up running 2.9 miles.

High 90's

Even though it was in the high 90's today, the summer has been relatively cool - and, more rain than usual.  I ran an unplanned course in town this evening.  Even ran a street that I had not run before.  The course turned out to be 2.7 miles.

Dog Days 5K

I never got around to running our club's Dog Days 5K this morning.  I got up at 6 a.m.and got to the race at 6:45.  Unloaded stuff and then put out the signs for the 1-mile and 5K courses.  Since the courses are new, I decided to lead the race in my truck, rather than run.  We had 80 runners and walkers.  Then, I started taking photos for the club web site.  After the race, I picked up all the signs, took them back to storage, had breakfast at IHOP and then went home to type up the race results and put them on the club web site.  After that, I started editing photos and developing a photo gallery.  I finally finished that late tonight and put it online.  Click HERE for the photo gallery.  Oh yes, late this evening, I did get in a 2.9-mile run on the streets in Huntsville.

Laps

I mowed and did a lot of other yard work today, so this evening I went to the track and ran laps.  This evening, I went over to the running club storage place and loaded up all the signs and other stuff for the club run tomorrow morning.  Tiring day.

3.5 at the park

I ran 3.5 miles on the trails at the park this evening.  Still hot and humid and deep sand in parts of the trail.

Hot 5K

After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the church and ran the hilly 5K course around the campus.  Darn, it was hot.

High humidity

I ran 3 miles on the trails at the park this evening.  While the temperature was about 93, the humidity was extremely high.  I was completely soaked in sweat at the end of my run.  While running past the park superintendent's house, he had just returned home and we had a nice visit.  He confirmed the good news that the construction on the south perimeter road and dam, scheduled to start as early as next month, has been delayed until March 2015.  That means that all the races held at the park this winter will not have to alter their courses.  My son was released from the hospital this morning.  Hopefully, his arm will heal quickly from the surgery and the anti-biotics will completely rid his arm of the infection.

Bubba

I visited my son in the hospital once today.  Hopefully, he will be released tomorrow.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran an unplanned course on the roads around town, which turned out to be 2.6 miles.  Bubba was in his pickup and stopped me during my run.  I thought he needed directions.  He asked me if I needed a ride.  I assured him that I was okay and felt great.  I must look bad when I run.

Measured new courses

After church and a visit to my son in the hospital, Steve Bickford and I measured new 10K, 5K and 1-Mile courses, to be used for our club runs in September and November.  They start and finish at Physical Therapy Associates, behind the hospital.  They are really nice people.  While normally not open on Saturday, they are going to open up for our club runs, so the runners can use their restrooms.  It was hot this afternoon and we walked the course with an engineer wheel for an accurate measurement.  Afterwards, I went to the track in town and ran a 2-mile loop on the roads from there.  Then, back to the hospital.  He is hoping to get out tomorrow.

Watermelon 5K

I got up real early this morning to the one-hour drive over to Hempstead to run the Watermelon 5K at 7 a.m.  Too early!  It was sorta nice running in temperatures in the mid-70's, though.  I finished in 36:36 and was second place in the 60 and over age group.  First place got a watermelon in addition to a medal, so I missed out.  I made a couple trips to the hospital today to visit with my son.  They say he should be released on Monday or Tuesday.

Back and forth to the hospital, again

The doctor checked my son's arm early this morning.  While the swelling was down some, it was still badly infected in the elbow.  So, they operated on him at 9 this morning to removed the bursa sac (padding on the elbow) from his elbow.  He will continue on the strong anti-biotics for a while and hopefully they will take care of the rest.  I made several trips to the hospital today.  I did get in a 2-mile run out and back on Veterans Memorial Parkway this afternoon.

Two trips to the hospital

I made two trips to the hospital today.  In between rain storms, I mowed and trimmed the grass and during another break in the rain, I worked out at Iron Works and did a 1.3-mile run on the streets in town.  The anti-biotics that my son was on were not working, so today they put him on the strongest and most dangerous stuff they have.  The swelling in his arm was down some this evening.  I suppose that is a good sign.  I am not sure when he will be released from the hospital.

Hectic day

My wife went down to Houston to spend the day helping my son, who has been recovering from a serious infection in his elbow and arm.  I went down to Conroe early this afternoon for an appointment.  While there, I received a call from the fiancee of my son in Huntsville that he was admitted to the hospital with an serious elbow and arm infection.  What's the deal?  Two sons with an elbow and arm infection.  They have not even seen each other in a couple months.  I got back to Huntsville and went to the hospital.  They never got around to starting anti-biotics with an IV until 5 p.m. this evening.  I left the hospital about 5:15 and met the group at the church to run.  I cut my run to 2.7 miles, part of it in the rain.  I picked up a pizza on the way home, showered, ate and then went back to the hospital until visiting hours were over.  Hopefully, he will be better tomorrow.

Rain, finally

I woke up this morning to the sound of heavy rain.  It rained most of the morning.  Hopefully, it did more than fill up those big cracks in my lawn.  The trail was in good shape at the park this evening for my 3-mile trail run.

Back to just heat

No rain today, just heat.  I worked out at Iron Works and then ran an unplanned route on the roads around town.  It turned out to be 1.7 miles.

Wet run

About 3 p.m. today, I got out the engineer wheel and spray paint and made final adjustments on a new 5K and 1-mile course for our club run later this month.  From there, I drove to the track and started a 3-mile road run from there.  After about a mile into the run, a heavy rain began and lasted throughout the 3-mile run - a real "gully washer."  Although I got some funny looks from passing cars, the cool rain really felt great after so many weeks of hot weather.  Besides, there was no lightning.  As I drove no more than a mile from the track toward home, there was no rain and the streets were dry all the way to my house.  Still no rain at my house today.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K in The Woodlands this morning.  I finished in 36:34.  It was the 64th time I ran this race, which is held twice a month.  The first time was on June 12, 2004 and my time was 30:13.  The race this morning was my 730th race since I began racing on May 1, 1983 and it was my 1,728th consecutive day of running on my current streak.

Short Friday Run

Since I have a 5K in the morning, I ran 1.3 miles on the roads in town in the middle of the hot afternoon.

Park roads

I got out to the park at 5:30 and there were no other runners there.  I took off and ran 2 miles on the park roads.  Then, about the time I finished, Curtis, J. C. and Leah returned from separate runs on the trails.

Wednesday church 5K

It was 96 degrees when I met up with the group at the church this evening to run our hilly 5K course.

Hot afternoon

It got into the mid-90's this afternoon.  After Iron Works, I went out to the park and ran 3 miles on the trails with J. C., Leah and Sara.  At least the trail is shady.

A couple miles

It was in the mid-90's this afternoon.  After doing yard work this afternoon and working out at Iron Works, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Sunday Night 5K

My friend, Haleigh Pustka, and I went down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 36:25, almost a minute slower than last month.  She was the overall winner of the race, with a time of 20:03.

Seemed like Sunday

With a race yesterday (Friday), today seemed like Sunday.  I finally got around to running this evening.  Ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Stu's Country Mile 5K

For the 20th time and the 19th straight year, I ran Stu's Country Mile 5K in Centerville (45 minutes north of Huntsville) this morning.  I finished in 36:59, 2nd of 5 in the 70 and over age group.  As usual, we had a big crowd from our club there and as usual, we all had breakfast at the Town Cafe just off the downtown square.  Then, we stayed around and watched the 4th of July parade.  Lots of horses and tractors, of course.

What happened to the rain?

Since it was Thursday, I headed for the park.  There was a black cloud to the south and obviously a storm coming toward the park and Huntsville.  So, to get in a run, I went to the track and ran 1.8 miles on the roads from there.  Still no rain.  I went to Iron Works and then home.  Still no rain.  5K in Centerville tomorrow morning.  The forecast says a 20 percent chance of rain at start time.  I bet it rains.

Normal Wednesday

As usual for Wednesday, I worked out at Iron Works and then met up with the group and ran the hilly 5K course starting and finishing at the church on Sycamore.

Astros

I worked out at Iron Works earlier today and ran 2 miles on the roads in town about noon time.  This evening, I went down to Houston, met up with my son and then went to the Astros game with the Mariners.  It was military night, so I got free nosebleed section tickets.  We left after 7 innings when the Astros were down 12 to 2 (the final score was 13 to 2).  It was my first Astros game in a couple years.  I did not recognize any of the players on either team.  Guess I am not into baseball.

Short run

The day started off bad with my AC going out.  I wrote my column for the paper this morning, while waiting for the AC guy.  He came late this afternoon and it turned out to be the fan motor in the attic unit.  Cost me just under $1,000 for a replacement.  Sure glad it was noting serious!  Then, I had some inflammation in my left knee.  Maybe it was from the AC repair bill.  Anyway, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 1.3 miles on the roads in town.

Back to Houston

I loaded up my riding lawn mower and other stuff and went down to Houston this afternoon to mow my son's lawn.  I think he is now recovered sufficiently to do it himself.  When I got back this evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Polish Pickle 5K

I ran the Polish Pickle 5K in Bremond this morning for the 19th consecutive year.  They had over 800 runners in a town with a population of 900.  I finished in 36:02, which was good enough for 3rd place in the 70-74 age group.

Usual Friday

As usual, with a 5K tomorrow morning, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.  Gotta get up early tomorrow.

Just me and Nicole

It was just me and Nicole who showed up at the park this evening.  Hans and John were there biking, so they stayed with her for 4.5 miles.  I ran 3 miles on the trails.

Wet 5K run

We had a light rain for our Wednesday evening 5K run from the church.  Surprisingly, there were more runners there than usual, including a couple of new guys.  The cooler temperature (80's) and the rain made the run much more comfortable.

Steamy park

It rained this afternoon, so the park was hot and steamy this evening.  After working out at Iron Works, I ran 3.5 miles on the trails at the park  Sara Seale (now McCullough), who use to run with us about 10 years ago until she graduated from SHSU, was back and ran with us tonight.  Great to have her back.
I heard that there was radio news today reporting that a girl was bitten by an alligator at the park yesterday.  She was swimming in the lake at night after being warned not to.  And, I see the main threat at the park as biting horse flies.

Avenues 5K

I ran the hilly Avenues 5K course this evening.  I suppose it was the heat and humidity, but I felt very sluggish.

Run with Jason

One of my old friends, who moved from Huntsville about 10 years ago, was back in town today to run the Gator Bait 15K Trail Run at Huntsville State Park.  Today was his 100th consecutive day of running.  He asked me to run part of the course with him this morning.  I did that and then ran some on the park roads.  He ended up getting 3rd in his age group.  He and his friend came over to the house for showers and then we all went out for lunch.  We had a nice visit.

June Bug 5K

I got up early this morning and put out the signs for the club's annual June Bug 5K and 1-Mile at the Spring Lake Sub-division in Huntsville.  We had 60+ runners and hot and humid weather.  I finished the hilly course in 37:13, a little slower than I expected.

Houston

I loaded up my lawn mower and stuff this morning and went down to Houston to do my son's lawn.  He is recovering from a serious arm infection.  On the way down, I stopped at several places to drop off race entry forms for our Huntsville Half Marathon in October.  After I got back to Huntsville, I had  to get some signs and other stuff ready for our club run tomorrow morning.  I finally got to the track this evening and ran laps.

Two

Only speedy Jacob and Jason showed up at the park this evening.  I ran 2 miles while they ran 3 and I finished only minutes ahead of them.

Church 5K

After working out at Iron Works, I met up with the group and ran the church 5K course.

Tuesday at the Park

As usual on Tuesday, I worked out at Iron Works this evening and then went to the park.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  Also as usual in mid-June, it was hot and humid.

Iron Works 5K course

I spent the morning working on my running column for tomorrow's Huntsville Item.  The column is already on the Item web site.  Click HERE.  I wrote on hydration and got more technical than I usually do.  I always think that some doctor or other professional is going to contact me and tell me that I don't know what I am talking about.  None have done so in the nearly 9 years that I have written the column.  In any case, hopefully I have made a difference.
I worked out at Iron Works this evening and then Clayton and I ran the 5K course starting and finishing at Iron Works that I measured last Friday.  Clayton complained that it seemed to be all uphill and that we should reverse the direction.  If you start and finish at the same point, the course is flat.  To reverse the direction, you will have to run on the other side of the road; that will require remeasuring the course.  Ugh.

Oops

I forgot to blog yesterday.  I ran 2 miles on the road in town in the mid-afternoon 92 degree heat.

Greyhound 5K

I got up at 5 this morning and drove 89 miles up to Kosse to run the Greyhound 5K at 7:30.  There were about 100 runners there.  It gave me a chance to visit with some old friends and meet some new ones.  I finished in 36:08.  I finished 2nd in the 70 and over age group.  My friend, Dennis Alston, who just turned 70, took first (darn young whipper snapper).  There were at least two others in the age group behind me.  On the way back to Huntsville, I stopped at the Town Cafe in Centerville and had breakfast.  Today, was my 1,700th day on my current running streak.  I've been there twice before in previous streaks, so no big deal.

Measured a new course

I measured a new 5K course for the club this afternoon.  We will use it for the first time for our club run on July 26.  It starts and finishes in front of Iron Works.  I walked the distance with an engineer wheel.  After all that walking, I went to the track and ran laps.

2 Miles

After working out at Iron Works, I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.

Two lawns and a 5K

I mowed my lawn this morning and then loaded up my mower and drove down to Houston to mow my son's lawn and fix his lawn mower.  He is out of the hospital and at home, but not up to lawn care.  I got back to Huntsville just in time to join the group to run the 5K course on campus, starting and finishing at the church.

Big crowd at the park

Seems like about everybody that runs with us at the park showed up this evening.  I stuck to the park roads and ran 3 miles.

Heavy rain today

There was a forecast of heavy rains in Huntsville this afternoon, so I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  The rains came, but were gone by this evening.  Nice to get the rain.

Sunday evening run

After an afternoon of doing yardwork, I ran an unplanned course on the streets in town.  It turned out to be 3.3 miles.  I also contacted the timing company that timed the race yesterday.  It looks like I was given chip 906 rather than 806.  Runner 906 had my finish time, so they corrected my online race results.

Heights 5K

I got up at 5 this morning and drove down to Houston to run the Heights 5K.  I guess you could say it was a 6-cow race, with 961 finishers in the timed event.  The course was flat and down and back on Heights Blvd. in the northern part of Houston.  According to my Garmin, I finished in 35:41.  The chip-timed race results said 36:51 for my chip time.  I am not sure how that happened, but I am sure about the 35:41.  I will claim that.  In either case, I was 6 out of 9 runners in the 70 and over age group.  The overall female winner was Kaytlynn Welsch (age 13), with a time of 18:44.  Her 11-year old sister, Heather, finished in 20:11.  Amazing.

Friday routine

As usual on most Fridays, I did a short run due to a 5K race tomorrow morning.  I went to the track in the mid-afternoon heat and ran 1.3 miles on the roads from there.

Over 90 today

As expected in early June, it was over 90 degrees today.  I ran 3 miles on the roads at the park this evening, after working out at Iron Works.

Back to Houston

I went back down to Houston this evening to pick up my wife and bring her back to Huntsville.  Before leaving, I got in a 1.5-mile run on the roads in town.

Tuesday at the park

After working out at Iron Works this evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.  Hot and humid.

Sunday Night 5K for the 50th time

On Saturday, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town and then had to go to Houston to be with my son, who was being admitted to the hospital.  I had to come back to Huntsville on Sunday afternoon to take care of some business.  On the way back to Houston, I stopped in The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 35:28, which is my fastest time for this monthly race since September 2011.  He was released from the hospital this afternoon, so I drove back to Huntsville this evening.  I ran 2 miles on the roads in town just become it got dark.

Mid-day run

I thought I might have to go down to Houston this afternoon or evening, so I ran at mid-day.  Ran an unplanned course on streets that I know well in town.  The course ended up being 2.7 miles.

No rain today

There was no rain today, so a few runners showed up at the park this evening.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads, while the others ran trails.

It was suppose to rain this evening

It was suppose to rain this evening at the time our group runs from the church on Sycamore.  Anyway, it did not.  We ran the normally hilly 5K course around the campus.  Hot and humid, but that will get worse as the summer progresses.

Wet run

After working out at Iron Works this evening, I went out to the park.  It was raining and for some reason, no one else showed up.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  The cool rain felt great.

Memorial Day 5K

As has become a tradition, I hosted the Seven Hills Running Club's annual Memorial Day 5K Run and breakfast at my house this morning.  We had 70 runners and a great time.  By the time I got around to running myself this afternoon, it was raining.  I ran laps at the track in the rain.  No complaining; we needed the rain badly.

Getting ready for tomorrow

I spent much of the day getting ready to host our club's annual Memorial Day 5K at my house.  Lots of details, especially with breakfast after the run.  Expect over 100 runners and family members.  I took a break this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Fredonia 5-Miler

I got up at 5 this morning and made the 100-mile drive over to Nacogdoches for the Fredonia 5-Miler.  Several old friends were there, so it was great visiting with them.  This included Sara McCullough, Jimmy Jones, Cindy Sosa Springs and Zeno Boehmer.  Zeno is 85 and still running.  I remember when he was in his 60's, he was the overall winner of a half marathon in Woodville.  The last time I ran this race was in 2003, when I finished in 49:03.  I was a little slower today, with a finish time of 1:00:05.  I was second in the 70 and over age group, behind Jimmy and ahead of Zeno.

Friday short run

Since it is Friday and I have a 5-miler tomorrow morning, I ran a 1.3-mile loop on the streets in town.

Park roads

After Iron Works this evening, I ran 2.3 miles on the park roads.

Church 5K

This evening, I met up with the group at the church and ran the 5K through the campus.

Tuesday at the Park

After working out at Iron Works, I went out to the park and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Back from California

After getting in a run in Huntsville on Friday, we flew out to California for the weekend to meet and visit with our son's fiance's family.  We had a short layover in Denver and flew to San Diego.  The family lives in Encinita, a beach community on Hwy. 101 about 30 minutes north of San Diego and that is where we stayed.  It was very close to the ongoing wild fires, but the wind was blowing from west to east, so there was very little smoke in the Encinita area.  It was a busy weekend, but I got in runs along Hwy. 101 on both Saturday and Sunday  We got back to Huntsville tonight and I went over to the track and ran laps.

Compressed schedule

My schedule this evening was sorta compressed.  While working out at Iron Works this evening, I found out that most of our trail group was not going to be at the park this evening.  I had a running club meeting at 6:30 p.m., so I was not going to make it either.  No problem, except that we had a new guy coming up from Houston to run with us.  So, I went out to the park at 5:30.  The new guy was there and a couple other of our trail runners.  I got in a 1.5-mile trail run, went home to shower and be at the meeting at 6:30.  I also had a ticket for the Sam Houston State baseball game, which also started at 6:30.  I made it to the game about 8 p.m. and finally had dinner about 10 p.m

Back to BCS

I drove back over to Bryan/College Station today to get my 1974 VW Bug Convertible from a shop there and tow it back to Huntsville.  While there, I had lunch at the Coco Loco Mexican Restaurant in Bryan. Best Mexican food around.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran the 5K course from the church with the Wednesday night group.  It was a small group tonight, me and Clayton.  School is out, so the traffic in the university area is light.  Nice.

Early run

I went with my son and his fiance over to College Station this evening for the Sam Houston State - Texas A & M baseball game.  I never made it to Iron Works today, but I did go for run in the avenues this afternoon.  It was an unplanned course, which turned out to be exactly 3.1 miles.

Working trail run

My friend, Paul Stone, who directed the Hog's Hunt Trail Run at Huntsville State Park on Saturday, asked me to clear the flagging on part of the course.  So, after working out at Iron Works, I went to the park and did a working run for 2 miles on the trails.  I deposited all the flagging in a trash can and then ran 2.3 miles on the park roads back to my truck.  Hot and humid and it is storming now.  More rain is expected for the next 2 days.

Squeezed in a run

Just after returning from Wylie this evening, I squeezed in a run at the track before attending a family get-together here in Huntsville.

Texas 10 Series Plano

I ran the Texas 10 Series Plano 10-miler this morning.  It was a little warm and windy, but not bad.  My son and 13 year old granddaughter, Sara, ran the single loop 5-mile race.  I finished in 2:10:34 (2nd in my age group), a couple minutes faster than the super hilly Texas 10 Series Huntsville race last month.  Sara ran to the finish line with me and that was special.  She was 1st in the 14 and under age group with a time of 46:33.  I won $100 in the post race drawing and split it with Sara.

Friday short run

It's Friday and I have a 10-miler tomorrow.  So, I ran my short 1.3-mile course in town.

It was suppose to rain

We did have rain this morning;  the first in weeks.  It quit raining about noon and the forecast was for more rain about the time we meet at the park to run trails.  So, I went into town early this afternoon, worked out at Iron Works and ran 2.8 miles on the roads in town.  Then, it never rained this evening.

Laps

I had to go to my wife's annual Master Gardener Dinner tonight, so I ran laps at the track this afternoon and then worked out at Iron Works.

Three at the park

Usual Tuesday.  Three miles on the trails at the park after working out at Iron Works.

Avenue hills

It's back to Monday.  I worked out at Iron Works and then ran an unplanned route in the hilly avenues.  It turned out to be exactly 2 miles.

Sunday Night 5K

I got back from Wylie this afternoon, just in time to head down to The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 36:30, compared to 36:41 last month.  I remember when I use to run this course under 30 minutes.  The course must have gotten longer over the years.

Three in Plano

I am spending the weekend with my son and his family in Wylie, northeast of  Dallas.  I drove over to Plano this afternoon to scout out the course for the Texas 10 Plano next Saturday.  Tough hill from 1.5 miles to 3 miles.  Otherwise pretty flat. I will be running the 5-mile course twice for the 10-mile race.  Look forward to it.  Later this afternoon, I went with my son to the Plano Police Officer's Gym.  While he worked out, I ran 3 miles on the roads.  The temperature was 90 degrees.

Short run Friday

Before heading out of town today, I ran 1.3 miles on the streets in the avenues.

Cool for the third day in a row

Nice running weather at the park this evening.  For the third day in a row, it was relatively cool.  I ran a 3-mile course on the trails.

2 Miles with J.C.

After much heavy work around the house today, I worked out at Iron Works and then went to the track to run the roads from there.  Speedy J. C. was there and wanted to run two miles with me.  He slowed down to run with me and I sped up somewhat.  So, it was a good workout.  I received my re-covered custom orthotics in the mail today.  I have been running in some old ones for about a month.  Felt good to be back in my current ones with new covering.

Cooler

It was a little cooler today and a good chance to paint the ceiling of my front porch.  My right arm and shoulder really got a workout, plus a lot of leg exercise going up and down the ladder.  Got it done.  After working out at Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran 3 miles on the trails.

Did not feel like running today

This was just one of those days, I did not feel like running.  However, I went to the track to run laps.  There were too many people there, so I ran 1.5 miles on the roads.  That's day 1,653.

90 degrees

It was 90 degrees this afternoon when I went out to run in the avenues.  Ran 3.3 hilly miles.

Spring Fling 5K

I ran our club's Spring Fling 5K in Huntsville this morning.  I finished in 36:13.  When not running, I played race photographer.  Photos at http://7hills.us/SpringFling2014.htm

2,000th blog entry

This is one of those milestones I was talking about a few days ago.  Since I started blogging 6 years ago this month, this is my 2,000th blog entry.  I know I have not said much and the blog is not read by too many people, but it somehow keeps me accountable for my running.  I need all the motivation I can get.  It's Friday and I have a race tomorrow morning.  I ran a short 1.3-mile course on the roads in town this afternoon.

Copperhead

For the first time in a couple years, I encountered a snake on the trail at Huntsville State Park.  While running a 2.4-mile loop this evening, I met up with a 18-inch copperhead laying across the trail.  I have been running those trails for about 20 years and use to see a lot more snakes, mostly coral snakes and copperheads.  Maybe my eyesight is going and I just don't see them anymore.

Wednesday group

As usual for Wednesday, I met up with the group and ran the 5K course around the campus.  Summer is here.

Gardening

Now that it is past Easter, I planted my share of the family garden - melons and corn.  Now, we will see which comes up first, plants or weeds.  I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park this evening.

Knee pain

I am continuing to have pain just below the left knee cap.  After a mile or so, it eases up a bit.  So, I will take it easy this week.  After Iron Works this evening, I ran an unplanned route in the avenues.  It turned out to be 1.80 miles.

Town Creek Trail

I finally ran on the Town Creek Trail in Huntsville.  It has been there for years in a green area of the city.  It is basically one loop, with some side trails.  Including the side trails, the distance I ran was 1.8 miles.  I ran this afternoon after having family in today and eating way too much.

Super Hero 10K

I got up early this morning, picked up Jill and Kelly and drove over an hour east to the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation east of Livingston to run the Super Hero 10K.  My niece, Amie, was visiting us and made the trip with us.  Even though it warmed up during the race, it was rather cool for the start.  Most of the course was on paved roads winding through a heavily wooded area.  I finished in 1:16:18, which placed me 2nd in the 60 and over age group.  After the race, they provided hamburgers with the fixings.  While there, I ran into several old friends and had a great time visiting with them.

Laps

It's Friday and I have a 10K in the morning.  So, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

Running Milestones

As a runner, and especially as a streaker, I tend to keep track of milestones.  There are so many to track.  Such as, years since I started racing, number of marathons completed, number of races run, consecutive days of running, number of consecutive times completing certain races.  To me, it's all part of staying motivated to run and stay healthy.  The primary reason I blog is self motivation.  I probably have the most boring blog in existence, and I know from the counter, that only a few people read it.  However, I feel that it keeps me accountable.  I hate to run and many times I run farther than the 1-mile required to maintain my running streak, just because I have to account for my daily run.  In a week, I will reach a new milestone.  I make my 2,000th blog entry since starting my blog in April 2008.  Gosh, another milestone, 6 years of blogging.
Today, I worked out and ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.

Normal Wednesday

After working out at Iron Works, I met up with the group at the church and ran 3.1 miles around the campus.  The high temperature today with in the 60's.  From the looks of the forecast, this may be the last cool day in the foreseeable future.

Team RWB

I was invited by Team RWB to participate in an information program for veterans this morning at the VA Hospital in Houston.  I left Huntsville at 8 this morning and made it to the hospital just in time for a 10 a.m. start.  I worked with Daniel Cowart and Justin Taylor.  Justin was one of the members who ran with me carrying a flag at the Love.Run.Marathon last February 15.  We saw and visited with a lot of heroes.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.

Now, it's cold again

Just when I thought it was spring, the temperature got into the 40's today.  And, I had stored all my long sleeve running T-shirts for the summer.  I took it easy today and ran 1.3 miles on the roads after working out at Iron Works.

Texas 10 Series Huntsville

I ran the Texas 10 Series Huntsville 10-mile race this morning.  Warm and humid, with a light rain for part of the race.  It is the hilliest of the 7-race series, but I am use to the hills.  I finished in 2:12:44, which was good for 2nd place in the 70 and over age group.  However, having run all three in the series so far, I have accumulated plenty of points to be comfortably in the lead for the Armadillo Cup in the 70 and over age group.  A win for the series includes a cash prize of $250.  The next race in the series will be in Plano on May 10.  Then, three more races in the fall, Fort Worth, Katy and Conroe.

Bunny Run 5K

I drove an hour down to Humble this morning to run the Bunny Run 5K.  My good friend and member of our running club, Kas Kramer, directed the race.  It started and finished at the Sports Complex in a very nice sub-division.  There were over 100 runners for the 5K.  Everyone got a finishers medal, but no age group awards.  I finished in 35:50.

Friday rest day

Since I have a 5K in the morning and a 10-mile race on Sunday, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  Then, to the Sam Houston State baseball game tonight.

Skipped Iron Works

Someone came to my house to pick up the club race clock to use in Groveton this weekend.  He came at the same time I am usually at Iron Works.  Then, I went straight to the park to run trails with the group.  I ran 2.4 miles.

Church 5K

After working out at Iron Works, I met up with the group at the church this evening and ran the 5K course around the campus.

Seven

I worked out at Iron Works earlier this afternoon and then went out to the park and ran 7 miles on the trails alone.  The group started later and ran shorter distances and we all finished about the same time.  Nice cool weather, but windy.

Roads

After working out at Iron Works this evening, I ran an unplanned route on the roads in town.  It turned out to be 2.6 miles.

Sunday Night 5K

I forgot to post last night.  For the 48th time, I went down to The Woodlands and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 36:41.

Dogwood Dash 5K

I drove and hour and a half east to Woodville to run the Dogwood Dash 5K this morning.  Nice cool and clear weather.  I finished in 34:25, but my GPS said that the course was exactly 3 miles.  My friends came up with the same distance.  I have never run this race before, but it has been around for many years.  Why can't race directors accurately measure their course?  In any case, I was first in the 70 and over age group - and there were three others in the age group.  I walked around the Dogwood Festival for a while and got back to Huntsville by 1 p.m.

Restful Friday

Since it is Friday and I have 5K in the morning, I went over to the track this evening and ran laps.

Skipped Iron Works

Just as I was leaving the house this evening to go to Iron Works, I received a phone call.  By the time the call was finished, I had enough time to get to the park to meet the group at 5:30.  I ran 3 miles on the trails.  It is really nice at the park now; dogwoods are in full bloom, as well as other flowers.

Had to run to rest up

I spent much of the day doing heavy yard work and was really tired this evening.  To rest up, I worked out at Iron Works and ran 2 miles around the campus.  I felt much better afterwards.

Photos at the Park

The Chamber of Commerce is publishing a new Newcomers Magazine and they scheduled a photographer to take photos of our running group at the park this evening.  So, we had a much larger group than normal and they all looked good.  After the setup photos, we ran 3 miles on the trails.

Recovery day

My left knee was sore today and I am not due for another shot of the stuff from a rooster's cone until next fall.  It hurt at times during the 10-mile race yesterday.  So, after working out at Iron Works this evening, I ran 1.3 miles on the roads.  It eased up a bit after a quarter mile or so.  I iced it when I got home.  I am sure it will be okay in a couple days.

Texas 10 Series Boerne

I ran the Texas 10 Series Boerne 10 miler this morning.  Perfect weather and a nice and relatively flat double loop course around the city.  I finished the first loop in 1:04:53 and the second loop in 1:05:17, 23 seconds slower.  My total time was 2:10:10, which placed me second in the 70 and over age group.

Running of the Bears 5 Miler

I drove down to Montgomery this morning and ran the Running of the Bears 5 Miler.  Nice run, but it took forever to get the awards ceremony started.  Good thing for chip timing.  I finished in 59:31 (2nd in my age group).  Within about 45 minutes from getting home, I was on the road to Boerne, west of San Antonio, for the Texas 10 Series 10 Miler tomorrow morning.  Went to Mass this evening in Boerne and then had hill country BBQ.

Laps

Since I have two races this weekend, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Skipped the park

The weather forecast called for rain this evening, so I skipped the park and ran 2.3 miles on the roads in town earlier this afternoon.  I ran in a light rain and the rain this evening did not materialize. Oh, well.

Church 5K

I met up with the group at the Baptist church this evening and ran the 5K course around the campus from there.  Earlier today, I mailed off my custom orthotics to be recovered.  So, for my run this evening, I wore an old ones, made from a cast years ago.  My feet were sore after the run this evening.  It may be a  few days before I adjust (or re-adjust) to them.  Five-mile race coming up this Saturday and ten-mile on Sunday.

Dogwoods

Every time I see the dogwood trees bloom at the park, I know that summer is near.  This is probably the best time of the year to run trails at the park.  Jacob (fastest in town) and I (slowest in town) were the only runs running this evening.  He ran 3.5 miles and I ran 2.5 and he was waiting for me at the finish.

Avenues 5K course

After working out at Iron Works this evening, I drove to the track and ran the Avenues 5K course from there.  Plenty of hills, including the highest point between Dallas and Houston.

Club run

Our club had its annual Run the Trails 3.5 miler at Huntsville State Park this afternoon.  I hiked out a mile to a "T" in the trails to direct traffic and take photos.  There was a chance of rain, but the weather turned out nice.  Later this afternoon, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Tyler Azalea 10K

I ran laps at the track on Friday before driving 135 miles up to Tyler for the Tyler Azalea 10K this morning.  The temperature was around 60 with a light mist for part of the race.  The red brick streets were rather slippery, but fortunately no slips.  Due to the crazy winter this year, there were no azalea blooms to be seen.  My finish time was 1:18:37.  The 3rd place finisher in my age group was 1:14 something.  We had a family get-together in Tyler this evening and made it back to Huntsville around 10:30 p.m.  My leg is still swollen and sore, but it did not bother me in the race.

Doctor visit

My leg was somewhat better this morning.  I went to the track and ran laps - before my doctor's appointment.  The X-ray of my leg was negative.  The doctor diagnosed the problem as a contusion (bruise).  The pressure built up at the point of the impact (where the log hit my leg) forced the blood into my lower leg and foot.  He did not see any danger of a blood clot.  So, the swelling in my leg will take time to go away.  Heat treatments will help.  I was relieved that nothing was broken and there was no danger of clots in my blood stream.  This evening, I worked out at Iron Works.