Back to 2

I felt a little better this afternoon and nicer weather.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Cold and raining

It was cold and raining this afternoon, but I interrupted my football watching with a trip to the park and a 1.2 mile run on the roads.  Fighting this sinus infection.

Stayed at 2

I did not feel well when I went to the park to run this afternoon.  Got in 2 miles on the roads.  My fever was back this evening, presumably from the return of my sinus infection.

Another 2 at the park

I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park this afternoon.  Now, time to start getting in more distance.

First rehab appointment

I had the first shoulder rehab appointment this morning.  Many more to come, I suppose.  I had to go to Houston this evening, so I went out to the park earlier this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Doctor appointment this afternoon

With a rain forecast this afternoon and an appointment with the orthopedic surgeon who fixed my shoulder this afternoon, I ran laps at the track this morning.  The first thing the doctor said, "Did you break your running streak?"  Reluctantly told him no.  He said that everything looked good, but I can't raise my right arm for six weeks.  He recommends that I continue to wear the big bulky sling I have worn since surgery, at least much of the time. When, I run, I have to immobilize the right arm, wearing the sling.   I start rehab tomorrow.  My plan is to start stretching out my distance and figure out what races I can run in January.

Back to the park

Slept better in my own bed and felt okay today.  Guess the antibiotic is working.  Went out to the park this afternoon and ran 1+ miles on the park roads.  I have an appointment with the orthopedic surgeon late tomorrow afternoon.  Maybe he will clear me to start "running" again.  Merry Christmas.

Another challenging day

I had a lot of visiting family at the house last night and lost some of my sleeping location options.  Since my pickup truck is so comfortable, I decided to sleep there.  Got my best sleep in weeks, except that I woke up three times about to freeze.  I suppose that exacerbated my sinus infection and my temperature went up to nearly 102 this afternoon.  My family called the doctor who did the shoulder surgery and his on-call doctor prescribed an antibiotic.  By 5 this evening, I was feeling better and I went to the track and ran another slow and careful mile.

Third easy and careful track run

My fever was back up this afternoon, but I did get to the track and run easy and careful laps.  It has been 3 days since my surgery and I am more confident that I can keep the streak alive, without tearing the newly attached muscles to my bones.

Another mile at the track

I ran another slow and careful mile at the track this afternoon.  Doubt that I will do anything else until I see the doctor the day after Christmas.

Streak Continues

It was nice and sunny this afternoon.  I went to the track and ran a very slow and careful one mile.  I did not feel any strain on the shoulder.  I got home and took the big bandage off and took a shower for the first time since the surgery.  There were five incisions that had to be covered with bandaids.  The streak continues.

Surgery

It's after midnight, so I am a little late posting.  I ran at the track at midnight last night to get in a run on surgery day.  It was raining and the track was mostly mud.  I can imagine what people driving by the track thought if they saw me running.  I got to the hospital at 6:30 this morning.  In pre-op, they got concerned about my pulse rate of 48.  I had to explain that it was from running.  My surgery lasted about 2 hours.  The doctor was pleased that he was able to gather all of the torn muscles and attached them to the bone.  He was also able to remove a bone spur, which had been cutting on the muscles and causing a lot of the problem.  I will be wearing a big sling for a while.  Tomorrow (Friday), I will have to make a decision on continuing my streak.  The doctor is afraid the movement may put too much pressure on the newly anchored muscles.

The day before surgery

I have to be at the hospital at 6:30 in the morning for surgery at 7:30.  I ran laps at the track this afternoon, partially in water since we had heavy rain last night.  I am going to the track tonight after midnight to get in my surgery day run.

9 years and 2 months

Reached a minor milestone today.  Completed 9 years and 2 months on my streak.  I met up with the group at the park and ran 1-mile+ on the park roads.  My plan is to run in the morning (Wednesday) and again after midnight tomorrow night.  My surgery is early Thursday morning.  I will have until midnight Friday night to get in a run to keep the streak alive.  If I can, I will run.  However, I don't want to do something stupid, like tear off newly reattached muscles.  My doctor is well aware of my streak and I value his opinion.

Slept better

At least, I slept in one bed last night and did not get up until 9:30 this morning.  Fever continued today and I ran laps again at the track this evening.

Got through another day

Tough night last night with shoulder pain.  I moved to different places in the house, trying to find a comfortable place.  And, the fever continued today.  I drove to the track later this afternoon and ran laps.  When I got home, I realized that my truck seat was very comfortable.  I sat in my truck for 30 minutes after I got home.  Maybe I should got sleep in my truck tonight.

Streak is hanging in there

I took a decongestant for my sinuses  this morning, as recommended by my nurse.  Felt a little better today, but still have a fever.  I am sleeping all over the house at night, trying to find a spot and position to reduce the shoulder pain.  I went back to the park this afternoon and got in a mile+ run on the park roads.

Now, fever

I assume that it is a sinus infection, but I had a fever today.  Stayed on the couch all day, except to go run.  Not easy, I bundled up and went to the park and ran a little over a mile on the park roads.  I have been in contact with my nurse this evening on what I can or can't do without delaying my surgery next Thursday.

Park roads

I met up with the group this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads.  I did not know Lorie took my photo until after she posted it on my FB page.

Continuation

I "slept" in a chair last night to reduce the shoulder pain.  Tried to nap all day to make up for lost sleep.  I am suppose to run the Santa Hustle Half Marathon in Galveston on Sunday, but cancelled my hotel reservations today.  My surgery is a week from tomorrow and I am looking forward to it.  I have been through it before and the rehab is rough.  Keeping my streak going will be tough.  Starting tomorrow, I cannot take any Aleeve or other pain killers until after surgery.  It is going to be a long week.  In the meantime, I ran laps at the track this evening, wearing my sling.

Another rough night

I slept most of last night sitting up on the couch in the living room.  Less shoulder pain in the upright position.  This evening, I met up with the group and ran 2 miles on the park roads, wearing a sling.  I had two people driving by stop and asked me what was wrong.

Surgery scheduled

Rough night last night; shoulder pain kept waking me up.  I had an MRI at 9:30 this morning and 4 p.m. doctor's appointment.  In between, I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.  The doctor looked at the MRI results and scheduled me for arthroscopic surgery on December 20.  I will probably have to forfeit some races I have already signed up for, but my goal is to eliminate the pain and keep my streak alive.

Sunday at the park

Last night, I reached down to the switch on the floor to turn off my computer and pulled something in my shoulder.  Back to more pain all night.  This afternoon, I did go out to the park and get in 2 miles on the park roads.

Reindeer Run and Jingle Bell 5K

Early this morning, I drove over to Lufkin (hour and a half) to run the Reindeer Run at the zoo.  Cold, windy and rainy.  Normally, it is a 5K, partly through the woods.  However, there was so much rain earlier, the trails were underwater or at least too wet.  So, they changed the course to the paved road around the zoo; 5 loops.  Turned out to be 3.64 miles.  I finished in 47:12 and got first in the 70 and over age group.  I was the only one.  From there, I drove an hour down to Livingston to run the Jingle Bell 5K.  I finished in 40:45, but they had no age group competition.  Then, an hour-drive back to Huntsville.  My shoulder did not hurt so much last night and this morning, so I did not wear my new sling during the races.

Update

I ran laps at the track yesterday morning and then operated the club's race clock for a series of races at a local school during the afternoon.  Then, I went down to Cypress for the Huntsville-Fort Bend Marshall High School playoff game.  I did not get back until near 1 this morning.  It was 50 degrees today and rained all day.  I ran in my old neighborhood, Forest Hills, in the rain this afternoon.  I ran for 17+ minutes, so that was one mile +.  No change in the shoulder and the inflammation in my big toe is worse today.  I have two 5K races tomorrow.  I bought an arm sling today and plan to wear it during the races to minimize the arm movement.  Really look forward to Monday for my MRI and hopefully a decision of how and when to fix my shoulder.

Sleeping in a recliner did not help

I tried to sleep in an upright position last night to ease the shoulder pain.  It did not help.  Can't wait to get the shoulder fixed.  In the meantime, I went to the track this evening and ran 1.25 miles.

Another rough night

Seems like I was up most of last night with shoulder pain.  I think I will sleep in a chair tonight, less pain when I am in an upright position.  I did get back to Iron Works late this afternoon for a limited workout and then went to the track and ran laps.  The park is closed for squirrel hunting until noon, Thursday.

3333

Today was my 3,333rd consecutive day of running.  Ran 2 miles on the state park roads this evening (with my right hand in my pocket).  Was up most of last night with shoulder pain.  I had my doctor's appointment this afternoon.  After Xrays and examination, he concluded that I probably had a rotator cuff tear.  He scheduled me for an MRI on December 10 and visit with him later that day.  He insinuated that most repairs are done now by arthroscopic surgery.  He knows my streak well and said that he did not want to be the doctor who made me break it.  That's somewhat reassuring, but I know that I have more pain to endure and more runs to do with my hand in my right pocket or arm in a sling.

Texas 10 Series Conroe 10-Miler

I got up this morning and drove down to Conroe for the Texas 10 Series 10-Miler.  Was not sure if I was going to run or just pick up my packet.  My big toe hurt, but I decided to go for it.  The toe was very painful for a couple miles, but not too bad after that.  I opted not to wear a sling for my right arm, but I paid for that the second half of the race and for the rest of the day.  My shoulder is hurting.  I am not sure what my finish time was, but somewhere around 2:25:00.  The chip timing system did not pick me up.  I emailed the race and maybe they can recover my time.  In any case, I was the only one over 70 and got a first place age group award.  My appointment with the orthopedic surgeon is tomorrow, so he should confirm the rotator cuff tear and decide how to fix it.

Missed my 5K

Late last night, the inflammation in my right toe joint began to get much worse.  Throbbing pain all night.  After treating it all day, I ran a painful mile at the track late this afternoon.  Ten-mile race tomorrow morning.  We will see.

Weak and dizzy

I woke up weak and dizzy this morning, but managed to get a mile run in at the track.  I feel better this evening, but still faced with shoulder and big toe pain.

Another 2

I was the only one who showed up at the park this evening.  My sinuses were better but my toe and shoulder still hurt.  So, I ran another 2 miles on the park roads.  This weekend, I have at least one 5K race and a 10-mile race.  I may have to crawl into the doctor's office on Monday.  In my mind, there is no question that I have a torn rotator cuff.  The only question is what kind of surgery will be required to fix it.

Tired and spleepy

It must be the medication for shoulder and toe pain and sinus issues, but I was tired and sleepy all day.  I did not get much done.  In fact, I skipped Iron Works and went to the park and ran 2 miles on the roads. 

Back to the park

Short workout at Iron Works and then off to the park for a run.  It was just me, Lorie and Glen.  Between the sinus, big toe and torn rotator cuff problems, I managed to get in 2 miles on the park roads.

New issue

I have not mentioned this in my blog, but a couple months ago, I started developing pain in my right shoulder.  I'm not sure what caused it, lifting weights or falling at the park.  I kept hoping it would just go away.  Nearly a month ago, I self-diagnosed it as a rotator cuff tear, but the earliest I could get a doctor's appointment is December 3, 2018.   Back in 1995, I fell on concrete and tore my left rotator cuff.  I had to have major surgery to get it fixed and was in the hospital for a couple days.  The following year, I tore my right rotator cuff water skiing, but was able to get it fixed with arthroscopic surgery.  So, I know what a torn rotator cuff feels like.  Anyway, in the last two weeks it has become more painful and I am very limited to what I can do with my right arm.  I have been taking Aleeve to reduce the continuous pain.  My appointment is a week from today, but it will be a long week.  Assuming I have to have surgery, it may be a streak breaker.  I'll have to wait and see.  Late this afternoon, I worked out at Iron Works (obviously no lifting with my arms) and went to the park and ran a 1.4-mile loop on the trails

HMSA Classical 5K

For the first time ever, I ran the HMSA Classical 5K in downtown Houston this morning.  It is held in conjunction with a 25K and 10-Miler.  I finished in 41:54 and was the only one in the 70 and over age group.  Got to visit with a lot of good friends after the race.

Leftover Turkey 5K

Had a rough night last night and did not feel well this morning.  However, I ran the Leftover Turkey 5K here in Huntsville.  Very hilly course.  I finished in a lousy 45:37, probably a 5K personal worst.

Because I am on a running streak

I guess all the medication I took yesterday for the gout in my big toe got to me last night.  I was up sick most of the night.  Finally got up at 10 this morning.  Weak and my sinuses were acting up again.  Plus, I have a house full of visiting family.  Normally, all good reasons not to run today.  But, since I am on a running streak, I went to the park this afternoon and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  I tripped twice, but managed to stay on my feet.

Run Thru the Woods 5 Miler

Happy Thanksgiving to all.  I loaded myself down with medication last night and early this morning to ease the swelling and pain in my big toe joint caused by gout.  It was tolerable this morning, so I drove down to The Woodlands to run the annual Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler.  This was my 17th straight year for running this race.  I finished in 1:07:33, my slowest time ever in this race.  I was 4th of 4 in the 75 and over age group.  There were nearly 5,000 runners doing 5, 3-mile and kid's 1-mile.  It was great visiting with a lot of good friends.

Feel lousy

My sinuses have been acting up all day and I am running a fever this evening.  Then, tonight, I started getting a gout attack in my big toe joint.  I went to the park late this morning and decided just to do 1.3 miles on the trails.  I have a 5-mile race in the morning;  this may be fun.

Tuesday at the park

Jacob and I were the only ones in the group at the state park this evening.  I ran 2.5 miles on the wet and, in some places, muddy trails.

Cold, dark park

Got busy today and did not get to the park to run until later than normal.  There was so much rain this morning, I figured the trails would be a mess.  So, I ran 2 miles on the park roads and finished in the  dark.  After running in the 60's yesterday, it was the cold 40's this evening.  In any case, it was running streak day 3,319.

La Porte By the Bay Half Marathon

I made the hour and thirty eight minute drive down to La Porte this morning to run the La Porte By the Bay Half Marathon at 7:30.  Nice weather, 60's, partly cloudy and no wind.  The 13.1-mile course included two trips up and over the Fred Hartman Bridge.  I finished in 3:10:26 and was 2nd of 4 in the 75-79 age group.  I ran this race two years ago in 2:51 something.

Conroe Turkey Trot 5K

My sinuses were stopped up last night and I did not get much sleep.  I ran the Conroe Turkey Trot 5K this morning.  It did not start until 9 a.m., so I got to sleep in.  I ran the course in 40:16 and was 5 of 6 in the 60 and over age group.  After the race, I drove down to The Woodlands to pick up my packet for next Thursday's race there.  I felt lousy this afternoon and spent most of it in bed.  Half marathon tomorrow and I have to get up at 4:30 a.m.

Long day

With two races this weekend, I went to the park this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Then, yard work all day and the Cody Johnson concert tonight.  It was at the rodeo arena at the local fairgrounds, 7/10th of a mile from my house.  Got a little cold.

Park roads

After spending much of the day doing yard work, including mowing the grass for the last time, I worked out at Iron Works and ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Early run

I had to be somewhere at 4 this evening, I so worked out at Iron Works and ran at the park earlier than normal this afternoon.  I was late getting to the park, but I squeezed in 2 miles on the park roads.

Cold

Darn, it was cold (mid-30's) for our park run this evening.  It was just me, Jacob and Glen.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  This coming weekend, I have a 5K and my first half marathon of the season.  Unless I sign up for any more races, I plan to complete 2018 with 70 races.

Rain, again

It rained off and on today.  I went to the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads in a light rain and temperature of 45.

Sweat IV Vets 5K

I ran the Sweat IV Vets 5K in Humble this morning.  It was my 4th drive down to Houston or the Houston area this weekend.  Nice weather in the 40's and no rain.  Flat course on smooth asphalt in and around the Harris County Sheriff's Training Center and a state prison next door.  I finished in 39:18 and was 2nd of 3 in the 70 and over age group.  This was race number 60 for this year;  about 10 more to go.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K in The Woodlands this morning.  Temperature in the 40's and no rain.  I finished in 40:00 flat.  I had to back to Houston later this evening to have dinner with family and headed back down tomorrow for another race.

Not so normal Friday

Normally, I run laps at the track on Friday to rest up for weekend races.  However, just two 5K's this weekend.  So, I went to the park late this morning and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Four trips to the Houston area this weekend.  Ugh!

Early run at the park

We had a running club meeting this evening.  So, I went to the park earlier than usual for Thursday and got in 2 miles on the park roads.

Ran in town

Busy day and it got too late to drive to the park.  So, I went to the track and ran 2 miles around the campus.  I am reminded of why I usually avoid running the streets in town when school is in session.

Tuesday park run

I got so tied up watching election results last night, I forgot to blog.  I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  With the temperature back in the 80's, the mosquito's were the worst I have seen at the park.

Distance change

After working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I went to the park with the intention of running 1.3 miles on the trails.  After realizing that I was not tired from yesterday, I took a left turn and ran 2.4.

Texas 10 Series Katy

I ran the Texas 10 Series Katy 10-Miler this morning.  Drove down there in heavy rain and it rained most of the race with the temperature in the 60's.  I finished in 2:19:43 and was 2nd of 2 in the 70 and over age group.  I ran the same race last year in 2:27 something.  This was actually my fastest 10-miler since early 2017.  Bring on the rain for the next race!

Alex's 5K

I got up early this morning and ran Alex's 5K in Houston.  Nice cool and clear weather and a flat course.  I finished in 40:04 and was 5th of 6 runners in the 75-79 age group.  Got to visit with a lot of good friends.

Friday rest day

With a couple races this weekend, I went out to the park this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.

Park roads

I had to be somewhere at 7 this evening, so I met up with the group at the park and ran 2 miles on the park roads.  Then, a quick koolaid and home for a shower.

Suppose to storm this afternoon

We were suppose to have heavy storms this afternoon, so I went out to the park this morning and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Some rain this afternoon but nothing heavy so far.

Regular Tuesday

After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  Regular Tuesday.

No falls today

I went back to the park this afternoon with my new trail running gear and ran 2.4 miles and never tripped and fell.

Hard falls

I went out to the park this afternoon to run trails.  Ten feet from the start, I was adjusting my Camelbak and tripped on a root and took a hard fall.  I ran 7 miles and took two more hard falls.  I'm sore tonight; not from running, but from the falls.  From a positive prospective, beautiful running weather this afternoon.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning for the 92nd time.  Cool and clear weather.  I finished in 41:47.  This was my 56th race this year.

Park on Friday

Normally, I run laps at the track on Friday.  I only have a 5K in the morning, so I went to the park late this morning and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Sunny and cool weather for a change.

No rain, for a change

Even though it was overcast all day, no rain today.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads this evening.

Back from Wylie

Yesterday morning, I ran 1 mile+ on Veterans Memorial Parkway and then left for Wylie to visit family and attend my grandson's football game.  I left Wylie late this morning and drove back to Huntsville.  It was raining when I left Wylie and I never got to turn off my windshield wipers during the 195-mile drive back.  In fact, it has been raining ever since I got home.  I worked out at Iron Works this evening and ran 2 miles on the roads in the park - in the rain.

Monday

My sinus congestion remains, but no fever for several days.  In any case, the cooler weather is welcome.  I worked out at Iron Works this afternoon and then ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.

Oktoberfest 10K

I got up early this morning to get to College Station to run the Oktoberfest 10K at Kyle Field at 7 a.m.  About 10 miles from the house, I realized that I forgot my race bib at the house and had to go back and get it.  Still made it to the race with plenty of time.  The temperature was in the 50's, so it was cold standing around waiting for the start.  I finished in 1:31:26.  I was disappointed with my time.  Maybe I can blame it on the sinus problem and the race yesterday.  Anyway, I was 5th of 5 in the 65 and over age group and the beer was good.

Huntsville Quarter Marathon

I ran the Huntsville Quarter Marathon is morning.  Overcast, humid, but temperatures in the 60's.  The last time I ran a quarter marathon was on October 1, 1994.  I finished that race in 1:00:22.  Today, I finished in 1:33:28 and was 1st of 2 in the 70 and over age group.  After the race, a shower and a nap, I drove to College Station to pick up my packet for the 10K there tomorrow.

Fighting a sinus infection

For a couple of days, I have been fighting sinus problems, an annual affair for me.  Now, tonight, I am running a fever.  I have a race tomorrow morning and another Sunday morning.  I made it to the park this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Resting up.

9 Years!!!

I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the state park this evening.  The run completed 9 years (3,287 days) on my current running streak.

Back to the trails

I walked some of the Huntsville Half Marathon course this morning to make some final measurements for the race on Saturday.  But, I am not sure if my spray paint marks will stick on the wet asphalt.  This afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Despite the heavy recent rains, the trails were in good shape (at least the ones I ran on).

No one else showed up

No one else showed up for our group run at the park this evening.  That's rare.  It was cold and raining, but I am sure that had nothing to do with it.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Cold and rainy

I spent much of today in Conroe and The Woodlands for appointments and errands.  After working out at Iron Works this evening, I went to the track and ran 1.3 miles on the roads from there.  It was raining and about 50 degrees.  What a contrast from the heat and humidity at my 10-miler yesterday.

Texas 10 Series Cypress

I made the early morning drive down to Cypress (northwest of Houston) to run the Texas 10 Series 10-Miler at 7 a.m.  Hot and humid, although not as bad as the last couple weekends.  I finished in 1:31:43 and was 2 of 2 in the 70 and over age group.  It was my 52nd race this year.

Bulldog Dash 5K

I ran the Bulldog Dash 5K in Iola (about 40 minutes from Huntsville).  I ran it once before, several years ago.  There were about 40 runners total and my age group was 18 and over.  The temperature was in the 70's, so much better than the heat and humidity of the last few races.  I finished in 38:48.  My GPS showed the course to be 3.01 miles.  Even still, it was one of my better 5K times lately..

Laps

With two races this weekend, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Sunny for a change

Sunny today for a change.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

No rain today

For a change, there was not rain today and it was relatively cool.  After Iron Works this evening, I went to the park and ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Caught in the storm

Four of us showed up at the park this evening.  I thought we were okay with the weather and decided to do 3 miles on the roads, while Jacob, Sara and Glen were running trails.  I got one mile down the road and it started raining and lightning.  Since the lightning was getting closer, I opted to head back in.  I made it back safely after 2 miles on the road, soaking wet.  The rain and lightning then got worse and the others finally got back in a very heavy rain storm.  Later, I found that there was a tornado warning for the area.  Anyway, my running streak reached 3,278 days today.

Lots of rain today

I managed to get in a 2-mile road run at the state park in between rain storms this evening.

Space City 10-Miler

I drove down to the Clear Lake part of Houston early this morning to run the Space City 10-Miler.  This was my first time running this race.  It had rained in the area before the race, so the humidity was very high.  The temperature was in the 80's.  The course was one big loop on the streets and all flat.  I expected a big improvement over my time in Huntsville last Sunday, 2:32:35.  I ran the first half in 1:12:01, but the heat, humidity and sun got to me.  I finished in 2:32:38, 3 seconds slower than last Sunday.  I was 6th of 6 in the 75 and over age group.  In any case, it was my 50th race this year.

Friday and Saturday

With a 10-mile race on Sunday, I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park on Friday and laps at the track on Saturday.

Regular Thursday

After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Park roads

Instead of trails, this evening I ran 3 miles on the roads at the state park.  Hardly any traffic.

Back to the park

I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  There was a passing thunderstorm in the area, but it missed the park.

Mentally tired

After the tough 10-mile race yesterday, I was mentally tired today.  I worked out at Iron Works this afternoon and then headed for the park for a trail run.  Traffic was all backed up on I-45 and the service road.  I was on the service road and managed to make a U-turn and head back into town.  So, instead of trails, I ran 1.3 miles on Veterans Memorial Parkway

Texas 10 Series Huntsville

I ran the Texas 10 Series 10-miler in Huntsville this morning.  The temperature was around 70, but the humidity was high.  My socks and shoes were completely soaked in sweat.  The course was two 5-mile loops, mostly around the campus.  The hills were the worst possible in Huntsville.  I was tempted to walk some of the hills, but I ran the entire distance, although slow.  The results have not been posted, but my time was about 1:31:00, my personal worst for a Texas 10 Series race.  I was 3rd of 3 in the 70 and over age group.

Short Saturday run

With a 10-mile race tomorrow, I ran a 1.3-mile loop from the track this morning.

Long day

I got up real early this morning and dropped off my son at Houston Intercontinental at 4:30 a.m.  Just as soon as I got on the toll road to head back to Huntsville, I got a low tire warning light.  The left rear tire was at 31 pounds of pressure.  I kept watching the warning and it kept dropping.  I made it to the Discount Tire store parking lot on I-45 south of The Woodlands.  By that time, it was down to 9 pounds.  Found that the store did not open until 8 a.m..  It took me a while to find where the jack was hidden in the truck and how to remove the spare tire from up under the truck.  I finally got the flat tire off and the spare on.  I took a long nap when I got back to Huntsville.  I spent much of the afternoon running errands, including getting the flat tire fixed at the local Discount Tire.  Later this afternoon, I went to the park and ran 3 miles on the trails.

Cooler weather

After so much hot weather, today's temperature in the 70's felt good.  I took my visiting son to Iron Works and to the park this evening to meet up with the group.  We ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  I am driving him to the airport in Houston tomorrow at 3:30 a.m.  Normally, I only get up early for races.

Hectic week continues

I had a house full of visiting family today, but I slipped out this afternoon between storms to go run at the park.  A quarter mile into my trail run, the lightening started getting close, so I took a shortcut back to my truck.  I completed 1.3 miles.  I did not get struck by lightening, but did get a little wet.

Back from Wylie

I ran laps this morning at the track and then drove to Wylie (northeast of Dallas) for a family thing.  Just got home at 11:30 p.m.

Busy Monday

Yesterday was busy and I had family coming in for a visit.  It was after 1 a.m. this morning before I got home from the airport.  I did squeeze in a 2.4-mile trail run yesterday.

Late Sunday run at the park

I did some plumbing work at my son's place this afternoon after church and did not get around to running until late afternoon.  Ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.

Woodforest Charity 10K

I made the easy 30-minute drive down to Conroe to run the Woodforest Charity 10K this morning.  Flat course around downtown Conroe and a big complicated loop through some neighborhoods.   The forecast called for a good chance of thunderstorms.  Instead, it was 80 degrees and about 100% humidity.  That's three 10K's in a row with hot and humid conditions.  I finished in 1:32:33, 20 seconds faster than my 10K last Sunday.  I was one of one in the 70 and over age group.  In the photo, my good streaker friend, Vincent Attanucci of The Woodlands, is standing by as I finished.  His streak is nearing 16 years.  The race today was my 48th for the year.

Laps

With a 10K in the morning, I ran laps at the track today.

Routine

Today was routine for Thursday; 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.

3 at the park

After am early afternoon workout at Iron Works, I ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.

Back to the park

A regular Tuesday at the park with the group.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  Ready for cooler weather.  Today was 8 years and 11 months on my current running streak.

Breaking spider webs

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  I broke a lot of spider webs across the trails.  I suppose I need to follow some bikers next time.

Toughest 10K Kemah

I got up at 4:15 this morning to drive down to Kemah (Texas coast) to run the Toughest 10K Kemah this morning.  The course includes running up and down the big bridge, twice.  It was sunny and about 80 degrees, but the humidity was 97 percent.  I ran every step up and down the bridge, but the humidity was miserable.  I finished in 1:32:53 and was 5th of 6 in the 75-79 age group.  There were about 2,000 runners in the race.  Had a great time.  Got to visit with a lot of good friends.

Short Saturday run

Since I have a 10K race tomorrow, I went out to the park this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Then yard work and a football game tonight.

Early run

It was not raining late this morning and I was not sure what the weather would be like this afternoon, so I went out to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  The trails that I ran were in good shape despite all the rain; no mud.

On the road again

We have had so much rain, the trails are getting muddy in places.  I met the group at the park this evening and ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Park roads

I worked on my the brakes on my son's pickup much of the day.  I use to enjoy mechanical work, but now it is a pain.  Got em fixed, anyway. Afterwards, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2 miles on the park roads, most of it in a heavy rain.

More rain

After so many weeks of dry weather, we are finally getting some rain.  However, no rain for our group run this evening.  Got in 2.5 miles on the trails.

Early trail run

It was suppose to rain later this afternoon, so I worked out at Iron Works and went to the park to run after lunch.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails, the last mile and a half in a light rain.

Sports day

After church and lunch, I went to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Then, NFL and MLB the rest of the day.

Gruene 10K

I ran 1-mile+ yesterday on Veterans Memorial Parkway and then headed for New Braunfels (180+ miles) to run the Gruene 10K this morning.  There was lots of rain on the way over, but no rain during the race this morning.  However, it was unusually humid for the race and about 90 degrees.  I finished in 1:30:48, much slower than I expected.  It must have the humidity.  The race results were screwed up at the race and they cancelled the award ceremony.  The results were finally posted this evening.  I was first in the 75-79 age group.  Yes, I was the only one.  This was my 8th consecutive year for running this race.

Stormy weather

I drove through heavy rain this evening to get to the park.  There was no rain at the park, but it was lightning when I started my run on the trails.  Since I ran long yesterday, I cut my run to 1.4 miles to avoid getting caught in a lightning storm.

Another 7

I went out to the park at 1:30 this afternoon and ran 7 miles on the trails.  The temperature was in the high 90's; thank goodness for Camelbak's.  By the way, this is my 3,500th post since I started blogging in 2008.  Since this blog is part of my motivation system, it has been worth it for me.  I just feel sorry for anyone who has tried to read them all.

Tuesday at the park

Regular Tuesday at the park.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails, the last half mile in rain.

Labor Day 5K

I ran the Labor Day 5K this morning at the Spring Lake Sub-division here in Huntsville.  I finished in 41:00.  As I recall, that 2+ minutes faster than the last race on this course.  In any case, it was my 45th race this year.

Sunday Night 5K

I drove through heavy rain in Conroe and The Woodlands this evening to get to the Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands.  However, it stopped in time for the race.  I finished in 40:16.

PC in the shop

This is first post since last Tuesday.  All is okay, but my PC has been in the shop for repair.  In fact, it is still there.  Luckily, I saved my old PC and I got it going today.  Since Tuesday, I have run trails at the park every day.
Wednesday - 3 miles
Thursday - 5 miles
Friday - 2.4 miles
Saturday (today) - 3 miles

Stormy run

Four of us showed up at the park this evening and it was storming.  The heavy rain eased a bit, so we headed out on the trails.  There was still lightning in the area, so I cut my run to 1.4 miles.  So glad for the rain, though.  We got one inch at my house, the first rain in weeks.

Trails, again

After Iron Works this afternoon, I ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.

Stretching out the distance

It is that time of year when I need to start stretching out the distance to get ready for the longer races in the Fall.  I went out to the park at 2 p.m. this afternoon (95 degrees) and ran 7 miles on the trails.

Run the Woodlands 5K

This morning, I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K in The Woodlands for the 91st time.  I finished in 41:34, a whopping 20 seconds faster than last month.  It was my 43rd race this year and my 3,233rd consecutive day of running.

No laps on Friday

I usually run laps at the track on Friday.  Instead, late this morning, I went out to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Ready for cooler weather.

And I thought the biting horse flies were gone

I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park this evening.  I thought the biting horse flies were gone for the season.  Wrong.  I did not put on any spray and got bit on the back of my legs several times.  Must have been due to the heavy rain at the park a couple days ago.  I survived, but will go back to the Deep Woods Off spray.

Students back in town

With the university students back in town and so many people driving while distracted, most of my runs during the week will be at Huntsville State Park.  Today, I ran 3 miles on the trails.

Just in time

It was thundering and lightning near the park when I started my trail run this evening.  I finished 2.5 miles just in time.  Just as I was opening a kool-aid, the lightning was overhead and the rain was extremely heavy.  However, not a drop of rain at my house.

Back to the park

After working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  The thermometer on my truck said that it was 99 degrees.

Sunday afternoon on the trails

I went out to Huntsville State Park about 4 this afternoon and ran 5 miles on the trails.

Watermelon Run for the Fallen

I ran the Watermelon Run for the Fallen in Hempstead this morning.  Have not run it for a couple of years.  The race starts at the football stadium and finishes downtown.  The pre-race activities include several military ceremonies, a fly-over and parachutist landing on stadium field, carrying flags.  All race participants are required to walk two laps around the stadium track to start the race.  Those who want to run then leave the stadium and run 2.8 miles to downtown, where they have static displays and more ceremonies honoring our fallen heroes.  The run is non-competitive, but I finished the 2.8 run in 38:05.

Laps

Since it is Friday and I have a 5K in the morning, I ran laps at the track late this morning.

Thursday at the park

It was me, Jacob, Lorie, Monica and Glen at the park this evening.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Early run

I had to go somewhere this evening, so I had an early workout at Iron Works and got to the park at 3:30 p.m. for a trail run.  Got in 3 miles without any ankle pain.

Thursday at the park

We had a larger than normal group at the park this evening.  With some slight lingering pain in my ankle, I opted for 3 miles on the park roads.  Only a slight discomfort.  I am amazed how quick my ankle recovered.  Sunday night and Monday morning, it was so painful that I could not put any weight on my left foot.  Now, on Tuesday, I can run 3 miles with hardly any pain.  It seems that pains that come on quickly, go away quickly.

Whew!

I woke up many times last night, thinking that my running streak might be in danger.  The ankle was so sore that I could not put any weight on my left foot.  I got out of bed this morning with the help of crutches.  I took it easy all day.  Also took Aleeve.  Gradually all day the pain eased.  By noon, I put the crutches away.  At 7:30 tonight, I went to the track and ran 1 mile.  Some pain, but tolerable.  With that mile, I kept the streak alive.  Day 3,221.  Whew!

On crutches

I watched the Astros game with visiting family this afternoon.  After the game, I went out to the park to run trails.  All of sudden when I am walking to the door, I had pain in my left ankle.  Did not think much of it, assuming that it was a pinched nerve, which would go away when I started running.  It didn't.  I went out a mile on the trail.  At that point, I decided to run the same mile back.  So, I got in 2 painful miles.  Just as soon as I got home, I iced it and took Aleeve.  Right now, it is swollen, stiff and painful.  I cannot walk on it and am using crutches to get around.  Hopefully, it will be much better tomorrow.

Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days of Summer 5K

I drove down to downtown Houston this morning to run the Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days of Summer 5K at 7:15 a.m.  This race has been around for many years, but this was my first time running it.  I finished in 42:35 and was 6th of 8 in the 70 and over age group.

Short Friday trail run

Since I have a 5K tomorrow morning, I went out to the park late this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Running streak day 3,218 done.

Regular Thursday

As usual on Thursday, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Mid-afternoon run at the park

I went out to the park about 3 this afternoon and got in 2.4 miles on the trails.

Back to The Woodlands

I drove back to The Woodlands this morning to take my wife to the hospital to get her heart shocked back into rhythm.  All went well, but I spent much of the day there.  Got back to Huntsville in time to work out at Iron Works and meet the group at the state park.  I ran 3 miles on the trails.

Laps

I had a long day and spent most of it in The Woodlands.  Worked out at Iron Works late this evening and then went to the track and ran laps.

Sunday Night 5K

As I usually do on the first Sunday of every month, I went down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 41:57, four seconds slower than last month.

Southern Star Brewing 5K

I ran the Southern Star Brewing 5K in Conroe this morning for the fourth straight year.  Hot and humid, as normal.  I finished in a lousy 43:12, compared to 39:48 last year.  There were only two of us in the 70 and over age group.  Even though my time was slow, I got to visit with a lot of good friends.  It was my 1,039th race and my 3,212nd consecutive day of running.

Back to the park

Since I have a 5K in the morning, I went to the park this morning and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Larger than normal group at the park

We had a larger than normal group of runners at the park for our Thursday evening run.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Air boats at the park

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails, including the section by the lake.  There were two large air boats doing something in the swampy end of the lake.  Not sure what function they were performing, but darn they were loud.

Rain cooled things off a bit

We had some rain in the area today (although almost none at my house).  In any case, the temperature was down to the high 80's for the trail run at the park this evening.  I ran 2.5 miles.

Campus run

According to my truck thermometer, it was 101 when I ran this evening.  Ran a 2-mile loop around the campus.

Sunday afternoon at the park

I spent part of Sunday afternoon running trails at Huntsville State Park.  Got in 5 miles.  No trips, falls, heel pain or mountain lions.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning.  It was my 90th time for running this race, which is held twice a month.  I finished in 41:54.

No laps today

Normally, on Friday, with a race on Saturday, I run laps at the track.  Instead, I went out to the park this morning and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Heel is healed

I am declaring my plantar fasciitis inflammation in my heel as healed.  I think the new shoes, stretching, ice and Aleeve really helped.  In any case, I met up with the group this evening at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Back to the trails

It was a 100 degrees when I went back out to the park this afternoon to run trails.  It got in 2.5 miles, but I tripped on a root and took a hard fall.  I'm okay, but wondering if the fact that no one saw me fall, it if really counts as a fall.

A little cooler

The temperature was down to the high 90's this afternoon.  Felt the difference on my 2.5-mile trail run at the park.

Minor Milestone

I reached a minor milestone today - 3,200 consecutive days of running.  That's 8 years, 9 months and 5 days.   After working out at Iron Works, I went out to the state park and ran 2 miles on the trails.  According to my truck thermometer, the temperature was 103.

Hot trail run

I went out to the park in the middle of this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails when the temperature was at least 100.

Dog Days 5K

I ran our club's annual Dog Days 5K this morning at Elkins Lake Sub-division.  It is one steep hill after another.  And, in this heat.  I finished in 44:33, compared to 42:19 on the same course 3 months ago.  This evening, I went to the House of Blues in downtown Houston for a concert and just got home after midnight.

No laps today

Normally, I ran laps at the track on Friday.  However, I went to the park this afternoon and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Then, home and put ice on the foot.  I received a night splint in the mail today and will put that on when I go to bed.  That is another part of the treatment for plantar fasciitis.

100

According to my truck thermometer, it was 100 degrees when I showed up at the park to run this evening.  We had a good group, Gretchen, Art, Glen, Lorie, Jacob and Mackenzie.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Getting hot

The temperature is finally getting up to 100 this week and no rain in the forecast.  After working out at Iron Works this evening,  I ran 2 miles around the campus.  It was still about 98 at that time.  Lots of ice on my heel today and tonight.

Regular Tuesday at the park

As usual on Tuesday, I met up with the group and ran trails at the park.  Started self-treatment for the plantar fasciitis and hopefully the heel pain will go away.  I ran 2.5 miles this evening - and did not see any mountain lions.

Plantar Fasciitis

I went to the doctor this afternoon and, as expected, my heel pain was diagnosed as plantar fasciitis.  Have not had that since the early 1993.  I ran 1.3 miles on the roads in town this morning, expecting a cortisone shot this afternoon.  No shot, but got a list of things to do to try to get rid of the inflammation and reduce the pain.  In the meantime, the streak continues.  Today was running streak day 3,193.

Mountain lion?

I went out to Huntsville State Park this afternoon to run trails.  Got about a half mile and a young couple warned me that they had just seen a mountain lion on the trail.  It came down the trail toward them and their dog started barking at it and it ran off the trail.  I suggested to them that it might have been a bobcat, but they were sure it was a mountain lion.  I had a mountain lion cross the trail ahead of me many years ago, but I have never heard of anyone else reporting one - until today.  In any case, I ran 3 miles on the trails and didn't even see a rabbit.

Lunar Rendezvous 5K

I ran the Lunar Rendezvous 5K in Clear Lake part of Houston this morning.  The race was scheduled to be held at the Johnson Space Center as it has been for many years, but for some reason it was changed to a nearby church.  The course was through a nice neighborhood and around a lake.  Flat, but, as usual, hot and humid.  The heel hurt before and since the race, but it seemed to be numb during the race.  I finished in 42:51 and was 3 of 3 in the 75-79 age group.  I received a nice plaque, plus a 3 and 3/4 inch finisher medal.  Cannot believe some of the finisher medals now being given out for 5K's.  Got to visit with a lot of good friends at the race and made some new friends.

Laps

Since I have a sore heel and a 5K in the morning, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Better to worse

The heel was worse today, so I only ran 1.4 miles on the trails this evening and took inflammatory medicine with dinner.  Looking forward to my doctor's appointment Monday to find out what's going on.

A little better

The heel felt a little better today.  This afternoon, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.

Doctor appointment, but not until Monday

I finally called the doc about my heel, but could not get an appointment until Monday.  So, I took some anti-inflammation medicine that I have, worked out at Iron Works and ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  I hope that the pain in my heel will go away and I can cancel the appointment.

Heel

I sent an email to my doctor's office this morning and got an answer this afternoon.  The recommend that I see my orthopedic surgeon about my heel.  It seemed to be worse today.  This afternoon, I run an unplanned route in the avenues in a light rain.  It turned out to be 1.7 miles.

More heel pain

I woke up several times last night with the pain in my heel.  I had hoped that it would gradually go away.  May be time to see a doctor.  In the meantime, I got in a 2-mile run around the campus this afternoon.

Inbetween storms

Storms were coming through Huntsville this afternoon, so I had to time my run to avoid the lightning.  I went out to the park and thought I would have time to get in 3 miles.  I did not get 200 feet into the run, when the rain hit again.  There was some lightning, so I cut my run to 1.3 miles.  In any case, this was my 3,184th consecutive day of running.

Abnormal Friday

I usually run laps at the track on Friday and then race somewhere on Saturday.  This is one of the very few weekends of the year with no race.  So, I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  I tripped on a root and took a hard fall, the first one in months.  No damage, but I did get dirty.

Early trail run

I had to be somewhere at 6 p.m. today, so I went out to the park and ran trails ahead of the normal time.  I ran short of time and only got in about 1.8 miles.

Stu's Country Mile 5K

For the 23rd straight year, I ran Stu's Country Mile 5K in Centerville, Texas.  The forecast was for thunderstorms, but it ended up being partly cloudy and not as hot as usual for the 4th of July.  I felt comfortable running and was somewhat surprised that my time was slower than usual.  This course is known to be a little long, but I finished in 43:37.  I was 2nd of 2 in the 70 and over age group.  After the race, me and all our other club members had breakfast at the Town Cafe, just off the square.  The breakfast at the Town Cafe after the race is also a 23 year old tradition.

Tuesday trails

I met up with the group this evening and ran trails at the park.  I took it easy on the sore heel and ran 2 miles.  Race in the morning.

Ran short of time

I had to be somewhere this evening and had to cut my run a little short.  After Iron Works, I managed to get in 1.6 miles in the avenues.  The temperature was 97.

Sunday Night 5K

As I usually do on the first Sunday of every month, I went down to The Woodlands this evening to run the Sunday Night 5K put on by The Woodlands Running Club.  I finished in 41:59, about 10 seconds slower than last month.  My heel is still bothering me, but it seems to get numb while running.

Independence Day 8K

I ran laps at the track yesterday and ran the Independence Day 8K in Houston this morning.  It was hot, humid and sunny in Houston, but the course was flat  I finished in 1:12:41 and was 4th of 6 in the 70 and over age group.  It was only my sixth 8K race.  PR is 40:46 in 1987.

Two I's

The two I's (ice and Ibuprofen) seem to help with the heel.  It felt a little better today.  I went ahead and ran 2.5 miles on the trails this evening.  It was good to have Sara back on the trails with us this evening.  It has been a while since she joined us.  After getting home, I iced the heel again and took more Ibuprofen with dinner.

Worse

My heel pain was worse today.  I ran one mile on the dirt track this evening and then put my foot in a bucket of ice water.  I took Ibuprofen with my dinner tonight.  Hopefully, it will be better tomorrow.  I have an 8K race coming up this Saturday.

Heel pain

I woke up this morning with a sore right heel.  Years ago, an xray showed that I have a bone spur in that heel.  I had arthoscopic surgery on both sides of the foot.  They cut out part of the plantar fasciitis (muscle band that goes from the heel to the toes) to relieve pressure.  That has worked for years, but I am always concerned when I start to get pain in that heel.  So, this evening I went back to the trails and only ran 1.3 miles.

Regular 2-miler

Busy day, but I did get in my "regular" 2-mile loop around the campus this evening.

Hot Sunday run

I ran my 2-mile loop around the campus in the middle of the hot afternoon.

Polish Pickle 5K

For the 23rd straight year, I ran the Polish Pickle 5K in Bremond this morning.  I finished in 40:16, a couple minutes slower than last year.  Had a good time, though, and got to visit with a lot of good friends.  I was 2 of 4 in the 75-79 age group.  This was my 32nd race in 2018.

Short road run

I usually run laps at the track on Friday.  Since it was too muddy from all the recent rain, I ran 1.3 miles on the road from the track.

No rain today

Looks like the rain is over for a while.  However, the temperature and humidity is up.  After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Good timing

The rain and storms continue.  It looked like a break between 4 and 5 this afternoon.  I got in a quick workout at Iron Works at 4 and then took off running from there.  Got in 3.2 miles on the roads before the rain started again at 5.

Rain

We are getting bands of rain coming up from the Gulf.  However, still not much at my house (less than an inch in the last few days).  After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.3 miles on the park roads - in a light rain.

Wet run

I tried to run between storms again today.  It was dry when I started running south on Veterans.  Got about 3/4 of a mile and the heavy rain hit.  There was no lightning, so I kept running.  Got in 2 miles.

Running between the storms

I tried timing my run this afternoon between storms moving through Huntsville and visiting family.  I tried to run my 2-mile loop around the campus, but had to take a short cut because of heavy lightening.  Still got in 1.8 miles.

June Bug 5K

I ran our club's annual June Bug 5K in Huntsville this morning.  It is held on the hilly Spring Lake Sub-division course.  I finished in 43:17, one second slower than last year.  It was my 31st race this year.  I was especially pleased that my good friend, Bridgette Collins of Houston, accepted my invitation and came up and ran with us.  Bridgette and I worked together in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in the early 90's.  She has run a bunch of marathons and has written four books, three of which are on running and fitness.

Worked a race this evening

I ran laps at the track this morning and set up and operated the club's race clock being used at a cross country 5K in Huntsvillle this evening.  It is not often that I am at a race and not running it.

Road run at the park

At the last minute, I decided to run the roads at the park this evening.  It seemed to be cooler, or maybe just less humidity.  I ran 2.3 miles.

Loop around the campus

I ran my "regular" 2-mile loop around the campus this evening.  Interesting.  There is a lot of new construction to check on.

Late post

It is after midnight and I am just getting around to post.  I was watching the Astros game and it just ended.  Usual Thursday.  Worked out at Iron Works and then ran 1.6 miles on the trails at the park.

Old neighborhood

After working out at Iron Works this evening, I went across the street and make a complete loop around my old neighborhood, the Forest Hills Sub-division.  That loop is 1.9 miles.

Campus run

I got in a 2-mile run on the streets around the campus late this afternoon when it was still good and hot.

Greyhound 5K

For the 7th straight year, I ran the Greyhound 5K in Kosse (80 something miles northwest) this morning.  This is the race that I hurt my hip in last year.  Still not recovered.  Anyway, I finished in 42:03 and was 2 of 2 in the 70 and over age group.

And, a regular Friday

With a race tomorrow, I ran laps at the track this morning.  Running streak day 3,155.  Yard work this afternoon.

Regular Thursday

As usual on Thursday (for probably 25 years), I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran trails.  And, as usual, it was hot and humid.  I ran 2.5 miles.

Big Run 5K

To celebrate Global Running Day, I ran the Big Run 5K at Fleet Feet in The Woodlands this evening.  It was out and back along the waterway at 6 p.m.  Sunny and hot, as expected.  I finished in 41:44.  There was no age group competition, but I think I was the only runner over 70.

Steamy trails

As usual for this time of the year, it was hot and steamy on the trails at the park this evening.  I ran 2.4 miles.

Campus run

After Iron Works this afternoon, I ran a 2-mile loop around the campus.  Darn it is hot and humid, especially after the heavy rain last night.  By the way, no hail damage on my truck from the drive back from The Woodlands in the storm last night.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 91st time, I ran the Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands this evening.  I finished in 41:49.  On the way back to Huntsville, I drove through a strong storm for about 20 miles.  Wind, extremely heavy rain, lightning and hail.  I was thankful for getting home in one piece, but I will have to check my truck for hail damage tomorrow.

Heights 5K

I got up at 5 this morning for the drive to Houston to run the Heights 5K.  The course is down one side of flat Heights Blvd. and back on the other side.  As expected, it was hot and humid.  I finished in 42:10,   I last ran this race 2 years ago and finished in 37:32.  Ever since my hip injury last summer, my times have gotten much slower.  In any case, today I was 2 of 2 in the 75 to 79 age group.

Laps at the track

With a couple 5K's this weekend, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Short trail run

I met up with the group this evening to run trails  Despite a heavy dose of Deep Woods Off, I got attacked by those big biting horseflies.  So rather than completing my planned 2.4-mile loop, I took a shortcut and ended up running 1.4 miles.

Later run

I decided to wait until about 6 p.m. to work out at Iron Works and then run.  It was a little cooler (low 90's), but Iron Works was really crowded.  Never could get to one of my machines.  In any case, I ran a 2-mile loop around the campus.

Regular Tuesday

Even though it seemed like Monday after the Memorial Day weekend, today was Tuesday.  Worked out at Iron Works this afternoonand then ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.

Long day

I got up early this morning and set up the course and start/finish area for our club's annual Memorial Day 5K & 1-Mile at my house.  We had 67 finishers and a lot of family members.  Great visiting with a lot of good friends.  Of course, after the race, we had to clean up and take all the equipment back to the club's storage locker.  Late this afternoon, when it was good and hot, I got in a 2-mile run around the campus.

Busy day

We are hosting the club's annual Memorial Day 5K at our house tomorrow, so I was very busy today getting everything ready.  I took a break from the work this afternoon and ran 1.3 miles on the streets in town.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning for the 89th time.  The race is held twice a month and is currently being put on by Fleet Feet Sports.  I finished in 41:33.  40+ seems to be my norm for 5K's now.  In any case, this was my 26th race in 2018.

Friday at the track

With a race tomorrow morning, I went to the track later this afternoon and ran laps.  Running streak day 3,141.

Blog post 3,400

Since I started this blog on April 19, 2008, this is my 3,400th entry.  That is an entry virtually everyday I have been at home for over 10 years.  While someone who may stumble upon my blog may find so many entries (routine and boring) a little strange, the blog is part of my system of motivation for running motivation.  For 10 years, I wrote a column on running twice a month for the Huntsville Item.  My last column was published in December 2016.  I never wrote about myself until the last column.  Click HERE for a link to that last column.  It explains my system of motivation.
This evening, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at Huntsville State Park.  Now, I wonder how many times I have run at that park.  I remember a friend, Don Augustin, inviting me to run with him there.  It was my first and as I recall, we ran 8 miles or so.  That must have been nearly 30 years ago.

Birthday

Today was my 77th birthday.  I thought about running 77 miles, 7.7 miles or .77 miles, but never got around to it.  Instead, I ran 2.5 miles on the streets in town.

Tuesday park run

It was hot and steamy at the park this evening, but I got in 2.5 miles on the trails.  Lots of flying critters, but the Deep Woods Off worked pretty well - or maybe I just ran too fast.

Campus run

I may be getting into a summer rut, with another 2-mile loop through the campus.  With school out and virtually no traffic on the campus and no long races until the fall, it seems like a reasonable option.  Besides,  it gives me a chance to check progress on the summer campus construction projects.

Squeezed in a short run between thunderstorms

It started raining while we were eating at a restaurant after church today.  The rain and thunderstorms continued all day.  No complaints, though; it was the first rain in weeks.  I managed to get in a 1.3-mile run in the avenues between thunderstorms.  Got a little wet, but I managed to avoid close lightning.

No race today

This was my first Saturday without a race in a long time.  However, I got some exercise.  This morning, I walked back and forth across my lawn broadcast spreading fire ant killer.  According to my GPS, I walked about 2.5 miles.  Later this afternoon, when it was good and hot (90's), I ran 2 miles around the campus.

Forest Hills, again

This afternoon, I ran a loop around the Forest Hills Sub-division and even passed by my old house.  The distance turned out to be 1.7 miles.

Back to the park

I met up with the group at the park this evening for the first time in over a week.  I ran 1.7 miles on the hot and steamy trails.

2.6 around town

I had a lot of projects around the house today and it was later this evening before I got in a workout at Iron Works and a run.  From the track, I ran 2.6 miles around the town and campus.

Forest Hills

I was busy with projects all day and went to a baseball game in College Station tonight.  Just got home.  In between projects and a workout at Iron Works, I ran an unplanned route through my old Forest Hills Sub-division, across from Iron Works.  The route turned out to be 1.3 miles.

Empty campus

With classes being over, the campus is nearly empty.  I ran 2 miles through the campus this evening.

Visiting family

I had visiting family all day, but I slipped out in the middle of the afternoon and ran 1-mile plus on Veterans Memorial Parkway.  Nice hot weather, about 90 degrees.

Splendora Founders Day 5K

For the first time ever, I ran the Founders Day 5K in Splendora.  Never been to the town before, but this race has been going on for years.  It was suppose to start at 7 a.m., so I got up real early for the one-hour drive down there.  They never got around to starting until about 7:30 and there were only seven of us running the 5K.  Another 3 or 4 ran the 1-mile race.  Most of the distance was on the wet grass fields at a school.  I finished in 42:24 and picked up a medal for 2nd place in my age group.  I think the age group was 40 and over (males and females).  I did not hang around for the local festival.  It was my 1,025th race.

Laps

Friday laps at the track.

Early run

We had a running club meeting at 6 this evening, so I skipped the group run at the park.  Got in 2 miles on Veterans Memorial Parkway early this afternoon.

Campus run

Instead of running at the park this afternoon, I went to the track and from there ran a 2-mile loop through the campus.  I have not run that loop in months.  Part of it is closed for construction and I had to make a detour and run up and down steps.

It is now summer

The temperature is starting to get in the 90's and the biting horse flies are out at the state park.  That means that it is summer.  Ran 2.5 miles on the trails this evening, sprayed with plenty of deep woods off.

Avenues

The knot on the side of my left foot is not going away.  Just think the Brook Dyads are too narrow.  I ordered a pair of Asics Fortitudes online and got them in today.  Now, I have to break them in.  I decided to run the roads in the avenues this evening.  Ran an unplanned route, which turned out to be 1.75 miles.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 90th time, I drove down to The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K, put on by The Woodlands Running Club on the first Sunday of every month.  Coach Bill Dwyer directs the race and always does a great job.  I finished in 41:29.  Over 40 minutes is now getting to be my norm.  Guess I am transitioning to being old.  I remember when my norm went over 30 minutes.

Fredonia 10K

I ran the Fredonia 10K this morning in Nacogdoches, nearly a 2-hour drive northeast of Huntsville.  I have run this race several times over the years.  It use to be a 5-miler.  Unfortunately, due to construction the course was a little short.  Then, the course guards sent everyone on a shortcut.  I did not wear my GPS, but with the two problems combined, the course was about 5.5 miles, instead of 6.2.  In any case, I finished in 1:12:02 and was first (and last) in the 70 and over age group.

Laps as usual on Friday

As usual for Friday, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Normal Thursday

I met up with the group this evening at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  My shoes have been off since to give my sore, bunion or whatever it is, a break.

Foot problem

I have a sore knot on the side of my left foot.  I have been breaking in a new pair of Brooks Dyads this last week and they are more narrow than the Asics Fortitudes I ran in for years.  So I have been going barefooted much of the day and only ran 1.4 miles on the trails this evening.

Renewed my annual park pass today

For many years, I have purchased an annual state park pass.  Still only $70.  I buy it on the first day of the month, one day after the old one expires.  That way, I get an extra month, since the new one expires at the end of the month when it is purchased.  I made a second trip to the park this evening to meet up with the group.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Short trail run

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 1.4 miles on the trails.  Now, I am rested up from the weekend.

Texas 10 Series Sienna

After a trip to Tyler yesterday afternoon and getting back after 10 p.m. last night, I got up at 3:55 this morning to drive down to Missouri City (south of Houston) to run the Texas 10 Series Sienna 10-miler at 7 a.m.  Nice cool weather for the first 5-mile loop, but it was much warmer for the second loop.  My friend, Jon Walk, ran the 5-mile race, but ran another 5 with me for my second.  We had a nice visit and solved a lot of the world's running problems.  I finished in 2:22:28 and was 3 of 3 in the 70 and over age group.  This was my 1,022nd race.

Spring Fling 5K

I ran our club's Spring Fling 5K in the Elkins Lake Sub-division in Huntsville this morning.  It is a very hilly loop course around the lake.  My nurse from my doctor's office joined me early in the race and we ran together for the rest of the race.  It was her first race.  I ran slow, but I probably looked good running with her.  We finished in 42:19.

Friday laps

With another 2-race weekend coming up, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

Early park run

I had a running club officer meeting at 6 this evening, so I went out to the park early this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Running Streak Day 3,112.

Empty trails

After Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 3 miles on the trails.  Did not see anyone else on the trails, only a squirrel and a few flying insects.

Rested

After a short run yesterday, I felt rested today.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  The summer creatures are coming out.  Plenty of spider webs across the trails and some flying insects.  Also, ran into a huge doe on the trail.  We use to see deer all the time; now it is seldom.

Back to the park

I felt a little beat up today after the tough half marathon in Waco yesterday.  I made my first trip back to Iron Works this afternoon and then to the park for the first time in over a week.  I ran 1.4 miles on the trails.

First Responder Half Marathon

I got up at 4:30 this morning to make the 2-hour drive to Waco to run the First Responder Half Marathon.  New course this year,  almost all on the concrete walkways for two sides of the Brazos River.  Strong headwind going one way and a strong tail wind the other way.  I struggled somewhat on the second of two loops.  My right hip, which I hurt last summer almost gave way several times.  I never walked, but ran awful slow for a while. The temperature was nice, in the 50's.  I finished in 3:23:36 and was one of one in the 70 and over age group.  The finisher medal was an ambulance, complete with a battery and flashing red lights.  Last year, it was a police car with flashing lights.  My little granddaughter played with it and put it in her mouth once, shorting out the electronic circuits.

Run the Ramps 5K

I ran the Run the Ramps 5K at Kyle Field in College Station this morning.  This was the 11th time I have run this race.  The first time was 1997.  It was called the Ramp Romp before this year.  It has been an off and on race with an variations in the course, depending on construction at the stadium.  And, it has been sponsored by at least three organizations on campus.  The course is up and down all three sections of the stadium, then around the outside of the stadium and then back in with a run around the track to the finish line.  I am not sure how accurate the course was, but I finished in 37:15.  No age group competition, but everyone got a nice finisher medal and a hamburger.

Usual Friday

With a 5K tomorrow and a half marathon on Sunday, I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  Rainy weather is moving in this weekend, so these races may be fun.

Running the Strip - Back from Las Vegas

I flew out to Las Vegas on Monday and got back this evening.  This was my first time there since 1961.  It has changed a bit.  Interesting place and a lot of interesting people walking up and down the strip.  I was not there for a race, but I did get in runs up and down the strip every day.  While on the trip, I passed Running Streak Day 3,100 and 8.5 years.

Blue Bell 5K and Alamo Half Marathon

I drove to Brenham yesterday to run the Blue Bell 5K.  A storm had just came through and it was cold waiting around for the race and hanging around afterwards.  I am sure they did not give away as much ice cream as they usually do.  Good running weather, though.  I finished in 39:51 and was first (and last) in the 75-79 age group.

I left Brenham and drove on to San Antonio for the Alamo Half Marathon this morning.  The race started and finished at the Alamodome.  The race started at 7:20 this morning.  The temperature was in the 50's and 60's and it was sunny, with low humidity.  Could not ask for better running weather.  The course past the Alamo at about 1 mile.  I have to admit that running past the Alamo gave me goose bumps.  At about 3 miles, the course reached Fort Sam Houston and left the post at about 9 miles.  While in the Army, I was stationed there in 1961 and have not been on the post since about 1982.  The barracks I lived in and the building I worked in are no longer there, but it was great being back on the post.  I finished in about 3:14:52 and was 9th of 9 in the 70 and over age group.

Friday laps

With two races coming up this weekend, I went to the track this morning and ran laps - mostly in a light rain.  RSD 3,099.

Warming up

The temperature is on the way back up.  In the 80's today.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails this evening.  Three more long runs before the summer heat, 2 half marathons and a 10-miler.

Less pain

My inflammation was still there today, but not as bad.  To avoid the nausea, I did not take any medication this morning.  I ran 3 miles on the trails this afternoon with some pain and took a dose of medication this evening.

Much better

The inflammation was much less painful today.  The medicine seems to work well, except that I felt a little nauseated all day.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and due to a time restraint, I ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Rough night last night

I was awake most of last night with throbbing pain in my right big toe.  I went to my doctor's office this morning and got my inflammatory pill prescription renewed.  I took one at lunch and another this evening.  In between, I ran 1.4 miles on the trails at the park.  Not too painful.

Not much better

I had hoped to go to the park this afternoon and do a long run.  However, my foot was inflamed this morning and really hurting.  I did go to the park and run 1.4 miles.  The cooler weather would have been perfect for a long run.  My concern is for a 5K and half marathon coming up this next weekend.

Not a good day

About the time I went to bed last night, my right big toe starting becoming inflamed and sore as heck.  I have been around enough to know that it was gout (high uric acid goes to the coldest joint in the body (big toe joint) and crystalizes).  The crystals are like needles in the joint and it is very painful.  I got up a bunch of times during the night, took medication and drank tart cherry juice.  Due to the pain, I never got any sleep until about 6 this morning and then slept until about 9:30 a.m.  I was signed up for a 5K in Livingston, but did not make it.  I hate not going to a race that I was signed up for; especially when I was looking forward to seeing some friends over there.  It was much better later this afternoon and I went out to the park and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Nice running weather in the 40's.

Friday laps

Since Friday is my normal rest day, I ran laps at the track this morning and then spent much of the rest of the day doing my taxes.  The running was more fun.

Spider webs

I met up with the group this evening to run trails.  Glen and Jacob ran ahead of me for the first mile.  Then, I turned and went down a different trail.  As soon as I turned, I ran into one spider web after another until I finished 2.4 miles.  This time of the year, I suppose it is always best to follow someone else all the way.

Cool, again

It stormed late last night and it was in the low 50's when I got up this morning.  I think the high was 70 today - and sunny.  I ran 3 miles on the trails at the park this afternoon.

Suppose to storm

The forecast was for thunderstorms at the time we normally meet at the park to run.  So, I went out early alone and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  As it turned out, the weather was fine at 5:30 p.m.

Back to normal

It's Monday after Easter and the state park seemed to be back to normal.  After working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I went out and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Did not see anyone else on the trail; just a few flying critters.

Sunday Night 5K

After spending most of the day with family and eating too much, I drove down to The Woodlands this evening to run the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 40:54.  This was race number 1,016.

Longer line

There was even a longer line to get into the park late this morning.  After a long wait, I ran 7 miles on the busy trails.  No falls, but I did run by my first snake at the park this year.  I did not hang around to look at it closely, but it appeared to be a cottonmouth.

Crowded park

Easter weekend.  I went to the park this morning and had to wait in line for a long time to get in.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  I went back out this afternoon with visiting family and hiked and visited the Nature Center and playground.

Annual Eye Appointment

I had a complete eye exam this morning.  The doctor told me that I had excellent blood circulation in my eyes and that it probably due to running.  I know running has a lot of health benefits, and that is why I run, but I never heard that it improves blood circulation in the eyes.  So, I went to the park this evening and ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Deep water

It rained almost all day.  Really heavy rains this morning.  After Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park to get in a run - in the rain.  The trails were like rivers, water up over the socks in places.  I got about a half mile into the run, then lightning started getting close.  I got in 1.3 miles and was glad to get back to my truck.  Running streak day 3,083.

Early run

I worked out at Iron Works this morning (saw a whole new crowed) and then ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park.  This evening, I took my son down to see the Rockets - Bulls game in Houston.  It was the first time for both of us to see a professional basketball game.  I'm really not into basketball, but it was a good experience, except for the real expensive beer.

Park roads

After Iron Works this afternoon, I went to the park and ran 2 miles on the roads, instead of the trails.

Texas 10 Series College Station

I got up at 5 this morning to make it back over to College Station to run the Texas 10 Series College Station 10-Miler at 7 a.m.  It was 70 degrees and humid.  I finished in 2:27:25, almost my slowest race in this series.  I am wondering if my trail running during the week is slowing me down.  Maybe I need to run more on the park roads.  In any case, I was 2nd of 2 in the 70 and over age group.

Run for the House 5K

I drove over to College Station this morning and ran the Run for the House 5K.  It was a double-loop course around Wolf Pen Park.  According to my watch, I finished in 40:05, but there were no age group awards.  In fact, they did not time the race.  After the race, I had breakfast at the Coco Loco Mexican Restaurant in nearby Bryan.

Friday laps

With two races this weekend, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Looking toward the weekend

5K and a 10-miler coming up this weekend.  In the meantime, I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Early run

It's a beautiful day, sunny and rather warm (about 75). I went to Iron Works after lunch and then to the park for a 3-mile trail run.  Running streak day 3,076.

Four regulars

It was the four regulars (me, Glen, Jason and Jacob) who showed up at the park this evening.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Normal park

There is a street in Huntsville named Normal Park, but it has nothing to do with my run this Monday.  I went out to the state park this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  With spring break over with, the park was back to a "normal park."  Never saw another person on the trail.

Worked the club run

We had our annual club's non-competitive 3-mile trail run at Huntsville State Park this afternoon.  I went out on  the course by the lake and took photos of all the runners.  Then, I went back to the start line, put up my camera and ran 1.3 miles on the trails to get in a run before we wrapped up the run.

Seabrook Lucky Trail Half Marathon - 101

I got up just after 4 this morning to drive down to Seabrook to run the Seabrook Lucky Trail Half Marathon.  It was my 101st half and run in honor of all those who ever served with the 101st Airborne Division.  The temperature got up to about 80, with humidity.  I finished in 3:26:25, much slower than about 3:01 last year.  In any case, I was 1st place in the 75-70 age group (yep, I was the only one).  For the half marathon, Seabrook is a double loop course (4 loops for the full) and is mostly out and back.  That means you get to see all your friends on the course and encourage each other.  After the race, I was pleasantly surprised to see my good friend (and one of the few readers of this blog, Jane Jackson) greeting me at the finish line.  Thanks, Jane.  With completion of my 101st half marathon, my goals and milestones for this running season are met:

October 28 - Ran the Huntsville Half Marathon on my 50th Wedding Anniversary
December 17 - Completed my 1,000th race
January 4 - Running streak reached 3,000 days
February 24 - Completed my 100th half marathon
March 17 - Completed my 101st half marathon

Now, I have to work on new goals.  Obviously, one will be to extend my running streak to 10 years.

Short trail run

Resting up for my half marathon tomorrow.  I went out to the park late this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Running streak day 3,071.

Looking forward to Saturday

My plan is to run my 101st half marathon in Seabrook this Saturday in honor of all those who have served with the 101st Airborne Division.  I deployed with this division from Fort Campbell, Kentucky to Vietnam in December 1967.  I  ran my 101st marathon in their honor in February 2014.
In the meanwhile, I ran 2.4 miles on the trails at the park this evening.

Lots of people at the park

With Spring break in full progress, the state park had a lot of visitors today.  I went out at mid-afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails.  Plenty of hikers on the trails.

Met up with the group

For the first time since returning from North Carolina, I met with the group at the park.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Routine

I got back to Iron Works this afternoon after an absence for over a week.  Then, to the park for 2.4 miles on the trails.  Routine.  Also learned today that the race director for the Jail  Break Half Marathon I ran a couple weeks ago, was killed this weekend when a tree fell on her tent at a camping ground.  She was only 40.  Very tragic.  While I never met her in person, she was very cooperative when I requested bib 100.  May she RIP.

Sunday afternoon on the trails

After church and lunch, I went out to the park and ran a 7-mile loop on the trails.  Many trails have been closed for over a year due to construction behind the dam.  That section was just reopened and this was the first opportunity to "legally" make the loop around the lake - not that I did it illegally.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K in The Woodlands this morning.  I finished in 41:40.  Afterwards, I went to Trader Joes to pick up some stuff for my wife.  This afternoon, the temperature was in the 80's and I mowed my lawn for the first time this season.

Park run

It has been over a week since I have run at the park.  I went out there this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles.

Back from North Carolina

I ran laps in Huntsville on February 28 and then flew to North Carolina to visit family at Camp Lejeune Marine Base on the coast.  Just got home a few minutes ago.  No races, but I did get in a run every day while I was gone.  Great place to run.  Miles and miles of asphalt paved running trails everywhere on the base.  I got in a good 10.5-mile run on Monday and it was a single loop.  The weather ranged from high 30's to low 60's with rain on some days and other days with strong winds.

Back to the trails

After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Another dental appointment

I finally got my new dental bridge installed late this morning.  Sure feels different than the temporaries and now I do not have to be so careful eating.  Worked out at Iron Works this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the park roads.  Then, I had to make the hour-long drive down to Cleveland (TX) this evening to drop off my grandson, then back to Huntsville.

Got wet

It rained virtually all day today.  It was not suppose to stop, so I went out to the park this afternoon and ran in the rain.  I ran 1.3 miles, almost all in water covering the trails.  Some of it over my socks.   Then, later this evening, it stopped raining.  Oh well.

Jail Break Half Marathon

I got up at 4 a.m. this morning to make the drive down to Baytown for the Jail Break Half Marathon.  No rain, but high humidity and a temperature in the high 70's.  I finished in 3:19:03 and was 3rd of 4 in the 70 and over age group.  Half marathon number 100 done.

Broke the park streak

With half marathon number 100 tomorrow, I opted for a short run today.  So, I ran a little over a mile on Veterans Memorial Parkway, breaking my 11-day running streak at the park.

11 Days in a row

I ran 2.5 miles on the trails this evening.  This was 11 days in a row at the park.

Rain all day

As forecasted, it rained virtually all day.  It was heavy at times, but I managed to find a window of light rain this afternoon and got in a 3-mile road run at Huntsville State Park.

Stormy run

It was lightning and raining when I left Iron Works this evening.  After making the 9-mile or so drive south to the park, it was a little calmer.  Glen and I were the only ones who showed up to run.  I decided to do a short 1.3-mile trail run.  By the time I finished, it was raining like crazy and lightning striking close by.  I was relieved to get in my truck.  Glen made it back in one piece too.

Dental problems

I ordered a BLT at a place downtown at lunch.  Two bites into the sandwich, and my temporary bridge broke in half.  I found half of it in my sandwich and the other half was still in my mouth.  I managed to get a dental appointment at 2 p.m.  I arrived at the appointment with my running shorts on under my jeans.  They made me a new temporary and then I went Iron Works for a workout and to the park for a 3-mile trail run.  When, I left for the dental appointment, I accidentally locked my wife out of the house while she was working in the yard.  Not a good day, except that she got a lot of yard work done.

Back to the park

It was sunny and nearly 80 this afternoon.  So, I went back out to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  Half marathon number 100 coming up this Saturday.

Love.Run Half Marathon

I ran the Love.Run Half Marathon this morning on the trails at Huntsville State Park.  It was cloudy and 60 degrees.  Nice running weather, but as expected, the trails were muddy in places.  My shoes got a little muddy, but I managed to get around the standing water spots.  Took two falls - not from sliding, but for tripping over roots.  I finished in 3:42:02, a whopping 41 seconds faster than the same race last year.  I was 2nd of 3 in the 70 and over age group.  Half marathon number 99 done.  Me and the best race committee around in the photo.  Click on the photo to enlarge.

Morning run

With a half marathon on the trails at Huntsville State Park in the morning, I went to the park late this morning and ran 1.3 miles on the trails.  Parts of the course tomorrow will be muddy and there is a possibility of rain during the race.

Hotter

Here it is the middle of February and my truck thermometer said 85 degrees when I got to the park to run this evening.  I had to be back at my house by 6 p.m. for a running club officers meeting, so I ran 2.3 miles on the trails and left before everyone else finished.

Hot

I worked out at Iron Works and then ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.  The temperature was 75 degrees.  I expected to see snakes.

Late for trail run

I had a dental appointment at 4 this afternoon and was late for meeting the group at the park.  They were already running when I got there.  So, I just ran 1.3 miles on the trails and finished about the same time as they did.  My next race is the Love.Run Half Marathon at Huntsville State Park this coming Saturday.  The trails are already muddy or under standing water and more rain is expected. Half marathon number 99 is going to be fun.

Kilgore to Longview Run

Friday afternoon, I drove up to Tyler and spent the night with family.  At 5:30 Saturday morning, I drove over to Longview, picked up my race packet, got bussed to Kilgore and at 8 a.m. ran 11 miles back to Longview.  This was an old race that they brought back last year.  It was a well-managed race and I got to visit with some old friends.  I finished in 2:35:06 and was 2nd of 2 in the 75 and over age group.  The temperature was in the 60's and virtually 100% humidity.
After the race, I drove to Wylie (NE of Dallas) and visited with family there for the rest of the weekend.  Between Longview and Wylie, the temperature dropped to below freezing.  Yesterday, I went with my son to the Wylie Recreation Center, where they have an indoor running track (10 laps equals 1 mile).  I lost track of my laps, but I ran for 25 minutes.  I drove back to Huntsville this morning and went to the park this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Laps

With a race tomorrow morning, I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  Running streak day 3,036.

Diesel

As I entered the park this evening, I drove through what I thought was water over the road.  Then, all I could smell was diesel.  Apparently, a truck's fuel tank was leaking and it spilled onto the park road.  My truck was covered with the stuff.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  As I was leaving the park, I had to drive around cleanup vehicles spraying powder over the road.  Of course, I headed for a car wash.

Muddy trails

It rained most of the day.  When I went out to the park this afternoon, it was 38 degrees and the trails were muddy in parts.  I only ran 1.5 miles, but did meet up with a couple of deer.  Years ago,running into deer on the trails was frequent.  Now, very seldom.  Am not sure why the population at the park is down; they are in my back yard almost every day.

Foggy and rainy

It was foggy and we had light rain off and on all day.  Ugh.  Obviously, the group still met at the park this evening.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails, partly in the rain.