Day 124 - A wonderful long run - A (temporary farewell?)... And my way forward

Hi All (readers of my 110 blog and my Teens Run Yonkers - I'll be posting this in both)

Well, like the Seinfeld Series, all good things - OK,depending on your opinion, things - must come to an end or at least a temporary end. While I haven't shared a lot very personally, I'll share that this has been a tough few weeks for my family and I. I've had family members that have been challenged with health issues and it's been sad to folks that I love lose so much of themselves to these things. Not going into a lot of detail but I'm guessing you get it. As such, I really needed a run today to just clear my head and not think. One of our kids in teens run yonkers mentioned that he loved the feeling of just running and not having to do lots of thinking. So, I ran and ran and ran some more and was happy to put myself right on my marathon training schedule with a 20 mile run. Sometimes, especially when things are tough and you can't control, just getting out there and pushing and pushing till you accomplish something totally in your control, it feels good. Again, this is why we do Teens Run Yonkers - to teach young people about moving beyond self-imposed limits and getting to the place where you're in control.

Anyway, this was Day 124 - 14 past my originally goaded 110 days of running. While I absolutely love(d) doing this blog, I'm realizing it's relatively time consuming - and sort of mind dividing - to do two separate blogs. So this will be the final post - for awhile anyway - for the 110 blog. Starting tomorrow, I will be doing all my posting in the Teens Run Yonkers Daily Runner blog. For those of you who have been reading 110 and enjoying our occasional Seinfeld Trivia, I'll still try to kick that in from time to time. No reason we can't have some fun while motivating others to run. I'll also start adding a bit more about my own personal running and lessons learned into the Teens Run blog. We will finish up with the tips but again, will infuse it with some new stuff.


For those of you who read either of these, I welcome your thoughts, comments, suggestions and ideas for improving the blog, life, liberty and the pursuit of a perfect pair of running shoes (but I do have a couple of candidates!!) See you on the street

Congrats Steve on the 10K - and day something, something - George and Real Estate

I am beat but I am posting - this - something - just to keep myself in the game. But before I forget, a big congrats to one of the steadies (at least on the Seinfeld stuff - not sure he actually reads this!). But a big congrats to Steve Vinick on his recent run of the Cherry (is it blousom or tree?) 10 miler. Sounds like it was a great time. I'm also a little big familiar with that one as Teens Run DC, I guess what we'd call Teens Run Yonkers DC-cousin, participates in that one.

Anyway, had kind of a fun couple of runs today both 3++ ish so I'm calling it 7 for the day which is what I was supposed to be at for the marathon training schedule which I seem to be keeping more by accident than design. Did the run with the TRY team today which was fun, interesting and kept me going at a variety of paces - kind of fun to change it up like that. I've also been eager to run on this trail I always drive by at Tibbetts Broook where we do so many of our training runs. I had decided that if time worked out after the TRY run that I would hit the trail. So, I brought along this pair of Newton trail shoes I've been loving just as walk-arounds. But I was eager to see what running trail was like and I have to say - very cool. There is definitely something special about finishing a run - even if it is just 3 or 4 miles and having the shoes caked with mud and looking like you just ran Australia or some other super remote place. Very cool and on the radar permanently now.

Finally, since I've been in the hunt for office space now for a bit, I'm reminded of George's original career (before the Yankees, Play Now, Kruger Industrial Smoothing and probably lots of others). But speaking of George's real estate adventures, you may remembers he quits Rick-Bar properties. What instigates the final blow-up between him and his boss? What are some of the alternative career choices he contemplates after quitting? Finally, after Jerry is robbed, he finds a great apartment for Jerry to rent - tough one here - where EXACTLY is it? What's it very, very close to? Good night or good morning depending on when you're reading this!

junk miles - or not?

for some reason I seem to be in a junk miles phase - over the last two days, I've been a bit treadmill addicted and particularly around doing speed intervals. By the way, and as I often say, speed is a very relative term. Just to be clear, for me, doing speed intervals is doing a 9 mph pace for 100 to 200 meters and then doing a light job for two minutes - that's what these things are...Anyway, looking forward to hitting some dirt, gravel and cement tomorrow with Teens Run Yonkers - there's a cool looking train that I think we'll hit tomorrow just to get us moving again - yea!

I don't know what got me thinking about it but obviously superheroes play a key role in Seinfeld. So now for something at least a little bit different, let's talk about non-Superhero "mentions". I've always been a much, much bigger Batman fan and as someone noted last week, Batman is referenced in the Chinese Restaurant episode (unless I was Batman and just saw the Bat Signal). So when else is Batman referenced? And even more interested, which episode includes a mention of Aquaman? What other hero's are discussed in context? UP and away...

just a few quick things -

just a few quick things

not alot on the running today - did a good tempo on the tmill for 6+ - nice and steady...

But more on the Seinfeld stuff today as I had a similar experience to one of his. I was invited to speak at an assembly today for one of our schools (all shall be kept anon)and due to several factors, my time was limited. Anyway, very reminiscent of when Jerry is asked to speak at his former school for career day about his work. Remember that one? He's bumped two times I believe before ever getting on. Why? Also, he invites George to join him -what is George's initial plan for addressing the students? What does he ultimately do? What famous late night talk show host does a cameo appearance?

Off my routine - another 16 miles - how's your "internal clock"

Wow, I never realized how much a change in your routine can throw you off. I'm writing this at 2:20 PM (weird time I know) because this morning I took my dogs to get groomed which took up the entire morning. So I'm starting my day off really late. I've been able to get really steady with the blogging thing by making it the first thing I do - so I'm much more use to do doing this at 7:30 AM - so this is like 6+ hours late.

Anyway, had a decent 16 mile run yesterday on a killer route loaded - and I mean loaded - with significant hills. The first part of the run started with a straight uphill climb for nearly 2 1/2 miles, levels off for just a little bit then starts a roller coaster again. So, by design, I appropriately started off slow (as you're supposed to do on these but I always struggle with it). So I ended up covering 16 though I had wanted to hit 18 to be right on track with the training schedule i'm following. Nevertheless, a good run. I did a very easy recovery on my treadmill this morning. I have to admit - as much as I hate to - I feel kind of wiped today and not sure if its due to not enough sleep or possibly just a little bit of fatigue. Either way, onwards we go...

Speaking of feeling off the routine, there are a few Seinfeld episodes where Kramer references his lack of need for a watch and his comfort with his "internal clock". Can you name them? I believe a mishap or two occurs as a result of that clocks inaccuracies - what were they?

day whatever---

so I gave all of you a break with no post yesterday - it was Sunday after all.

Anyway, I'm just going to keep going with this thing till whenever. I think my legs and lungs have a good second wind; I've been lightening up on daily miles and will stick with a more typical marathon training schedule now. Focus on long run plus one good tempo and one or two good easy one's on the other days. And at least a mile or two a few notches below race pace on the other days. Why not - right. Plus I have to have some reason to keep coming up with the trivia stuff....

Speaking of which I was watching the - let's call it "Marisa Tomei" episode this morning. I never realized that 1) it's actually a 40+ minute episode and 2) they pack three separate story lines into it - A) the one about George getting fixed up with Marisa Tomei B) Jerry buying his dad the Cadillac and the subsequent impeachment of his father who is forced to leave the Pine of (something) Gables in disgrace - very Nixon-like ending and C) Kramer's fued and standoff with the cable guy - by the way, if you've seen the movie "The Artist", perhaps you know about the controversy surrounding the use of the music from Vertigo (one of my all-time favorite movies) The chase scene where the Cable Guy is chasing Kramer also "borrows" from this classic - what is is it about that movie??

Anyway, watching Kramer run so fleetingly from the Cable Guy reminded me that in various episodes, Kramer has been characterized as somewhere between "lean" and fit to desperately out of share (hint: the Walk is tomorrow - you're never going to make it!). Name a few of the episodes where his physical fitness has been a factor. Some have involved Charity Walks, the ability to where jeans, and his agility as model. No right answers here - more of a thought provoker for a Monday morning where I'm at my office a bit early and can't get myself quite started..

Yes, on to Day 112 - this stuff is positively addictive - or addictive in a positive way

so I can see that this gets kind of addictive - the thought of having to write something like "today was the first day I didn't run" is not sitting well with me. I actually thought today would be that day. Even though yesterday, I ended up having a nice run by testing out the course that we used for today's Teens Run Yonkers 5k+, I hadn't planned on running today. While I love going on the runs - really my favorite part - today, I wanted to be at the start/finish line to give up medals and congratulate all our finishers. Which I did - so, no runners.

But by 5:30, 6:00 I was feeling like I wasn't ready to give it up. So I did a 6+ miles tempo run on the treadmill. I have noticed a bit of benefit between alternating between pavement and treadmill so definitely sticking with that. So we are now at Day 112 - we'll see what tomorrow brings..

On a slightly different note, I was challenged to find a friend willing to help me move around some furniture in our house - having some pieces redone. SO what Seinfeld comes to mind?? Keith Hernandez of course. By the way - must be a sign of age, demographics and other stuff that I couldn't find a friend either willing or that didn't have some issue (i.e. bad back, hernia) that could move the stuff! Anyway, how do George and Jerry first bump into Keith? Who were the Mets playing in the tall-tale that in the inspiration for Kramer and Newman's anti-Keith sentiment? And what's the deal breaker that drives the wedge between Elaine and Keith in their dating? And for the fun of it, what is Keith Hernandez doing these days?

110 DAYS - BY THE NUMBERS - AND DAY 111!

Well, as a former wall street guy, and a lover of stats -not the class, just seeing them, I was eager to see what my 110 Days of Running Looked Like.

MEASURABLE:

TOTAL MILES: 662.4
TOTAL HOURS 130.45 (THAT'S LIKE 5.44 DAYS TOTAL)
LONGEST RUN: 26.2 (the Miami Marathon was in there)
AVERAGE RUN PER DAY: 4.56
AVERAGE MILES PER WEEK: 38.96
AVERAGE MILES PER MONTH: 165.6


UNMEASUREABLE..

Pounds lost and gained on celebratory meals
Seinfeld Episodes Watched and Trivia Questions Asked and Answered
Gu Consumed
Water Consumed
Loads of Laundry
Occasional aches and pains
Songs listened to on ipod
Purchases of motivational music
Running shoes bought and sold on ebay in support of this

Kind of cool..So what are the lessons learned? Well, break days help - or I'd like to be reminded again soon that break days help as I haven't taken one. Most importantly, goals are pretty amazing things to challenge yourself with. Doing this gave me a really definitive purpose to my running and just proves that once something gets into your head that you've gotta do it, you do it. So, what now? Well, Day 111 of course! To be continued....

Oh, how could I forget, counting days is so reminiscent of "The Contest". I've tried to steer clear of that episode given it's content so I'll only focus on the cleaner aspects as opposed to the real content driven parts. Obvious question, what's the name of the actress from Frasier (maybe one of her first roles?) that cameos on that one? And what is her somewhat unusual occupation? Finally, who is the (at the time) world-class bachelor proves to be Elaine's Achilles heel? This too, to be continued...

DAY 110 - IT IS DONE!!! AND WITH A WONDERFUL LONG RUN!

AND SO IT IS DONE. Today, I hit day 110 of my goal of running for 110 days straight. And as opposed to yesterday (when I felt terrible) and did a lame one mile just for counting purposes, today was amazing. I did a 15.5 mile run that included the Westchester North Trail and 119 - if you know Westchester, all this may mean something. If you don't, well, it was a nice route with some flats, some hills and some traffic. Pretty cool. To motivate myself for this, I bought a new pair of running shoes which I think may become 2nd go tops. Brooks has a great new line of shoes which I think they can comfortably call minimalist - it's their "Pure" line and I bought the Pure Cadence. They had a great feel and, you know when certain shoes just make you want to run? These did! Definitely was digging them. Anyway, I was really happy to end this little campaign strong...It's a bit late and I still have to do another blog so I will do all kinds of commentary and analysis on this tomorrow and over the weekend.

On a totally unrelated - and you know I have to challenge myself to make these connections- I was at my Toastmasters Meeting today. If you're not familiar, let me do my little plug and tell you that if you want to develop public speaking skills, this is the place to do it. I've been doing TM now for over three years and it's a phenomenal program. There's one everywhere - seriously, it's International - they're in your backyard so check out a meeting. The website is www.toastmasters.org . Anyway, I'm thinking Seinfeld and Friars Club. Not exactly like Toastmaster but a club nonetheless. What's the name of the guy that gets Jerry in the door. What happens to the jacket that is an essential for any club member? All that was easy - now the harder one - what classic novel is mentioned in the course of the episode? Hmmmm....

Great Run - Not - Limping to the finish line?

I'm truly not saying any of this for dramatic flair - as we are at day 109 - but not a great run yesterday and not a better start this morning.

I actually had all kinds of clever ways I was going to start todays post - they included:

I've heard the term "fresh legs" used in sports - I don't have them!
As a big "Rocky" fan (and not afraid to admit it), I always like to feel like I've got that Eye of the Tiger - this morning I did not!
I woke up this morning feeling a way that I don't particularly like to - like a 47 year old guy that's run for 108 days straight without a break..

You get the point. Plain and simple, this morning I wimped out from my long run. Yesterday, after our Teens Run Yonkers session, I went for one of the - if not the - worst run - I've had in months. My legs felt like they had sandbags in them and I could barely push myself towards three miles. Joints ached, knees stung. Basically all the stuff I've heard other runners says but always considered myself lucky not to have experienced yet. Well, now I was experiencing it. Even as I sit here now, I can feel a slight irritation where my shin starts. Hate it...

Nevertheless, I woke up this morning mentally ready to run 16 miles. In fact, I was looking at it as a bit of a reward. Over the last few weeks, I've been working probably more than I ever have. Even though my day gets chopped up in little bits - admin, grants, training with the teens, etc. - after a bit of a rest in the late afternoon, I usually do another two or thee hours at night. So all in, lots of 10, 11, 12 hour days. So my little reward was going to be taking this morning off and doing my run then a bit of relaxation. Got up, did all my usual stuff - prepped the iPod, picked the good shorts, got the gu and was out the door...

And then I felt a drizzle - and the beginnings of the excuse. I usually have a ton of discipline and have run in the pouring rain. But the potential to pass on the run with even the lamest of excuses was too great. I felt slightly better because by the time I dropped my wife off at the train, went to Dunkin Donuts to get my coffee and got home, it was at least a borderline rain. Enough to get the street wet enough to shine as I look at it from the comfort of my window. Enough that I see a few cars using the wipers. Hey, it's raining and I can't risk slipping!!

So, am I done. No. Bottom line, I'm going to do an easy brick workout today - light run on the treadmill of no more than 20 minutes (enough to be respectable) and a light stationary bike ride. That will be day 109 and I'll post on it.

But tomorrow - Day 110 - we'll go out with a bang and a strong 16 mile run. Wait, I have to check the weather first....

Speaking of finish lines, what's is the name of Seinfeld's Arch Rival that challenges him to a rematch? And what the name of the gym teacher that starts (or sort of starts them off). And speaking of limping to the finish line, what are some of the obstacles Kramer faces while trying to complete the Aids Walk? See you at Day 110

a bit more to go -

just a quick one to confirm that I did in fact get in my run today. I was feeling my guilt pangs at having written my post before actually doing it. My wife thinks I'm a bit nuts with my approach to things that have to be done in order i.e. a great run before a good meal, finish all the work before the run, do the run before the post. Yes, it's true. I'm a little nuts that way. But flexible as you see

Anyway, did a quick two+ miles measuring out relay distances for our Teens Run Yonkers training today. Good easy pace which I ruined with my newfound passion for trying to max my shins on the treadmill - which I did. So, I'm taking it easy tomorrow. But all in about 5+ for the day in addition to my 12 miles on the the stationary bike.


To be continued...

Day 106 and 107 (sort of)... Restaurants - and thanks for checking out the Blog!

Well, for dramatic flair, once I do today's run - which will be later, for the countdown, we'll have 3 runs to go to hit the magic 110. This is a first as I'm posting this AM and haven't run yet. But I did yesterday's run at 9:30 at night (yes, I'm sorry to say on a treadmill but it was a good 7 mile fast-paced one) so figured I'd capture it now. Later today, I'll be running with Teens Run Yonkers - after that I may do my own run as well. Either way, I'll be moving.

I also wanted to thank you (and you know who you are but I'm not fully sure) as according to blogger stats, we had 37 page views yesterday which is a new and very exciting high. So, what enticed you? My goal as I mentioned the other day is to transition this into a blog that supports my work with Teens Run Yonkers - so it will include tips on running, training, youth development, achievement and other stuff that will connect to the program. PLEASE, PLEASE, if you were one of those 37 that checked this out yesterday (or on other days and now you're back), first THANK YOU! There's a lot of blogs you could be reading but you're reading this and I appreciate it. SECOND: please join as a subscriber, follower (whatever the very proper title is) and THIRD: write some stuff, commonly known as a response. Let me know what will keep you coming back? how to spice it up but keep it clean? make it fun, interactive, etc.

Finally, I was eager to jump back to the blog early this AM as I did have a very "Seinfeldian" (new word? - I'm guessing someone has said this) experience yesterday. I won't name names (and no this isn't about Hop Sing) but my family and I went to a particular restaurant and had a very - shall we say - disappointing experience. I'm not going to elaborate. In any event, it was similar to the popular "The Chinese Restaurant" episode. So, some questions - What movie is the gang going to see after they (hopefully) eat at the 5th Avenue Chinese Restaurant? What superhero does George mention as he's describing his most recent romantic challenge? And what is the name of the acquaintance Jerry bumps into at the restaurant? Enjoy your meal....

105 - and 5 more to go - Go Teens Run Yonkers! And what's the Deal with Dry Cleaners?

Hi All,

Well, I'm glad to say my running and efforts have been more consistent than my blogging. But if you've been following this at all, you know that by now. I can only hope to be more consistent. Because, as it happens, there are only - believe it or not - 5 more days to go in my 110 Days of Running. Wow!

There's a couple things I really am looking forward to. 1) Giving myself some break days. As much as I love doing this, at 47, I'm finally starting to occasionally "feel it" a bit more than I used to. While that's to to be expected, with this going on, I haven't been so kind to my body. 2) Doing a more normal and smart marathon training routine. While I'm bummed that I was closed out of Pittsburgh, I think fate put me back at the New Jersey Marathon on May 6th. As you may recall - I put it in another post - this is the race I was entered into last year but had to skip due to some surgery; and that was after my 100 days of running. So, it seems only right that I'll finish (what I never actually started) and do this one after my 110 days. While it's not an excuse, I can't help think that my Miami experience (a.k.a. BAD) wasn't helped by the previous nearly 60 days of break less running. 3) Building in some other cross training -I've tried to do this over this period but continued to make running number 1 so that always got placed second or third. One thing I'm both looking forward to but not looking forward to figuring out all the 110 Day Stats. It should be interesting to compile the # of hours, miles, long runs, short runs and all other kinds of menusha that happened over these 110 Days. But I'll save that for the end.

I also - and here's the early plug -will be using this blog to either transition or launch more of Teens Run Yonkers Blog. I have only alluded to it occasionally but the program is truly moving in the direction I've always envisioned for it; great kids enjoying the running experience, challenging themselves to go further with the help of mentors and the emergence of a true TRY community. I've really been thrilled to have parents coming out and walking and running with us. Their support is so integral and any time we've been fortunate to have parents and family members out there running with our students, the experience has been that much greater. We had a great run today - we now have steady Saturday Training Runs 9:00 at Tibbetts Brook Park. Next week, we'll be holding our Teens Run Yonkers TRY 5K+ and am looking forward to a great turnout.

Finally, for those (billions) of you that have been agonizing for some Seinfeld Trivia, my recent challenges with our dry cleaner - Saturday is always pick up day in the burbs - is fresh on my mind. I'm sure you've noticed that Seinfeld - both on the show and in his 90's act - had several bits about dry cleaners. Anyway, at minimum, there were two episodes that dealt with Jerry's experiences - both good and bad - at the dry cleaner. I don't remember the names but a general description will do for our purposes. What fairly famous actress was featured on the show in one? And what other movie actress figured into the other? And for all the marbles, what is the name of his dry cleaner in one of these episodes? OK - that should keep you busy and thinking for a few minutes on this beautiful St. Patrick's Day afternoon.

Oh yes, Happy Saint Patrick's Day - have fun but be safe!

DAY 100!

Well this is kind of exciting - so I hit day 100 today. For point of reference, this is where I had stopped last year.

And a bit of a challenging day to do it as I completely wrenched my neck over the weekend. My wife was telling me I absolutely looked like an old man yesterday from the way I was carrying myself. I was truly hurting. So, I'm happy that by about 5:30 today I felt rested enough to do a pretty decent 5 mile tempo on the treadmill at a pace I was happy about.

Also, a bit bummed to share that the Pittsburgh Marathon was in fact sold out. But since I'd been training towards May 6th as a Marathon day, I fortunately found another one to do. And of all irony, I ended up signing up for the New Jersey Marathon. This is ironic as the surgery which stopped me from going beyond 100 last year also kept me from completing this Marathon which I had signed up for last year. So it feels like there's some sort of weird and good symmetry to it all.

I don't really have a Seinfeld connector for any of this other than I was happy to see my mom and stepfather for his birthday this weekend. We took them out to dinner and they were much more gracious than Jerry's dad was that time he lost his wallet. If you recall, he kept insisting that he should pay for dinner when in fact, he had no money on him. As he had lost his wallet. Where did he "lose" it. In fact, it was a double episode that involved the "loss" of something that they give to Jerry. What was it and how does he try to recover it?

The Long Run -

Finally, a good long run and what a beautiful day to do it. As always, went out a bit too fast (for me anyway) but was able to reign it in and still finish at a pace that made sense. I covered the Yonkers Half Marathon Route which was almost fresh since I haven't done it in awhile. In the lemons to lemonade category, my ipod shuffle imploded - naturally, it was about two years old- about 4 miles in so it was actually nice to remember that I don't need music - kind of had my own good rhythm. In terms of the ipod, I'm sort of happy about it as it was one of those from 2009 (maybe 2010?) can't remember but it looks more like a flash drive than an ipod - no controls and everything had to be done from the headphones - definitely one of the few Apple duds in a long time. And I'm sure it was a dud because they switched back to the old style.

I was in a speech contest today (I'm in Toastmasters - the public speaking club) and was thinking of Kramer's continual pointer that "poise counts". Remember the Pageant?? Which state was Jerry's date representing? And what was her talent?

That's it for today - I'm beat!

I had the sense to do a super light day today - 15 miles of cross training on a bike and 1.5 super light miles running - to save up some energy to hit 18 miles of long run tomorrow. If I can do this at a reasonable pace, I'm putting down my money for the Pittsburgh Marathon.

Day 94 - I think I've got Vertigo (and so does the Artist)

pretty quiet day for my own personal running but a fun one for teens run yonkers - we had a great group run; all our teens were invited to either run the loop around the lake at tibbetts brook park or do a smaller loop around the "top ring" at the park. it was a great way to get a handle on the variety of paces so we can start to set up some good and accurate pacing groups. as for my own personal running, just a very light four miles on the tmill which I was glad to get in as it became a pretty hectic day.

I forgot to mention that I saw the Oscar winning "Artist" over the weekend. I was really pleasantly surprised - in all candor, I'm always really skeptical of movies that win everything. I am a "sleeper' in movies and especially with the silent format, I was pretty sure my wife would be elbowing me 5 minutes in.. Not to be - was awake throughout..Two really notable things about our experience was 1) we saw the movie in this very old-time, nonprofit movie theater - just sort of a nice change from the usual multi-tripli plex that we're used to seeing movies in and 2) I was totally surprised at the infusion of chunks of the score from my favorite all time movie Vertigo into the movie. I'm watching, enjoying and all the sudden I'm like "isn't this music from Vertigo? Turns out that I wasn't the only one - in this day and age, of course I google The Artist, Vertigo and see there's this huge controversy about it including Kim Novak of Vertigo fame saying that her movie was raped. Other's had all kinds of stuff. Me - I was just kind of curious

Anyway, speaking of movies, movies are prominent in tons of episodes. Here's questions from just a few. In the episode "The Dog", which movie do they keep missing because Jerry has to stay with the dog? And what's the dog's name? In another episode, Jerry is supposed to meet the gang at the movies but his evening keeps getting messed up due to trying to schewdule his shows- what movie does he finally end up at and who does he go with? Finally, in the episode that involves bootlegging, which movie that he shoots ends up featuring Elaine dancing badly? So...let's go to the movies...

Day 93 - still at this - and a stake out

Well, despite a little drop off in my posts, yes, I am still at this and hit day 93 of my consistent running today so officially, another 17 days before I'm giving my legs a break. Had a couple fun runs over the past couple of days. For my 11th Anniversary, my wife and I headed (and our two dogs) headed north to upstate new york to beautiful and historic Marbletown New York. it's famous for - let's see - not that much actually. But it was nice and quiet and peaceful. Actually the two most notable things are that it's about 20 minutes from the well known Mohonk Mountain House, an amazing and huge 300+ room resort that has some breathtaking scenery. Also - and this will impress your friends and neighbors - it's in proximity to the Emerson Museum which houses the world's largest - not New Yorks, not just the US's largest - BUT the world's largest kaleidoscope. Now, we didn't go - but now we have a reason to return. Someday. Anyway, had some a few nice cold runs along the roadways there- clearly running is not big up there. I usually see at least one fellow runner - but no, none to be found. Anyway, always nice to see some new scenery.

And on the subject of B&B's, I'm happily reminded of two episodes which featured Jerry's short time of dating Vanessa, a lawyer he met at a party he attends with Elaine. The first of these episodes is called the Stake Out - if you've seen it you know why. During the second episode featuring Vanessa, they head up to a B&B in Vermont; it doesn't go well. Anyway, a couple fun trivia pieces from that? What is the name of Elaine's friend who is having the birthday? What is the name of the law firm - noted several times in the episode - that Jerry and George stake out. And what is their excuse for being there? During that 2nd episode, Jerry and George have invested some $$ in a "sure thing" stock - what is the name of the company. Finally, what is supposed to be particularly charming about the B&B? If you're still reading, it must be a quiet Sunday - hope your week starts well..

You are a tenacious monkey...

Good balanced day - did an easy 4 on the treadmill this morning (really early - about 4:00 AM). Had a good 3+ mile run with Teens Run the afternoon - legs felt good like - not tired which was a nice change. Don't really remember what day I'm at but guessing I"m into upper 80's or something like that.

I've been really trying to find some great interns for Teens Run Yonkers so my mind is on the challenge of finding them and keeping them engaged in a positive way. So if you've got any ideas on how to find mature, responsible, entrepreneurial people, send them my way. So, I'm sure you can guess what Seinfeld comes to mind, right? The one with Darren, that "tenacious monkey' and intern from NYU. For all the marbles, where is George working at the time and how does that figure into the episode? Jerry is also forced to reconcile his feelings for his girlfriend (name please) and the funny voice her stomach makes. During the "soul searching" montage, what romantic 80's song is featured and who sings it? And it really is mostly water weight...

Day 80 something - Road Runner Sports (like) - Ikea and the Mall

First off, thanks as I've noticed a few more people responding to the Seinfeld stuff. I'm not sure if that means you're actually reading the blog - I hope you are - but either way, happy to have you. And as I've said before, love to have you as registered follower. We're all such creatures of numbers and so exciting to see them get higher. Anyway...

I've definitely about writing this as this week has been one of my dumpiest weeks running from being under the weather with some lingering something or other. But I've still been doing my thing on the tmill just to avoid big temperature changes. Lame but at least it's something and managed to still do a bit over 30 miles this week. Hope to get back to a near 50 next.

For those of you that actually are runners and read this, I want to give a recommendation of buying your gear from Road Runner Sports. If you know what you wear and buy it consistently, I really find them to be fantastic with excellent customer service. I am a huge fan of Newton shoes- the only brand I've ever stuck with. I bought a pair of their newest MV2s (which are amazing by the way) but they developed a tear on the inseam (not the amazing part) which I learned was happening to other wearers. Even though I had purchased the shoes about five months ago and they had about 150 on them, they gave me a full exchange which is well past their 60 day return policy. Join the VIP thing - for $10, great savings and excellent service.

On a lighter note, my wife and I went to Ikea and then the Jersey Gardens Mall yesterday. I'm kind of amazed that Seinfeld never got around to including something about Ikea (i.e. what's the deal with Ikea - don't we have enough stuff in our lives we can't pronounce? And I'm sure shopping there and putting that stuff together has been the end of more than a few marriages). And on the subject of malls, there are several episodes that include trips to the mall (usually the ones in Long Island). Can you identify them? What are some of the key purchases made? And what pet meets with a sad ending? Finally, what quasi-religious organization is included in one of these? Have fun

27 more to go - and our thoughts for Daniel von Bargen

I'm a little bummed that I got off track with this but the only thing I can do is...get back on track. Was definitely under the weather for the past few days and nice to be about 90% back. And proud to report that still didn't miss a day but kept my running pretty limited. Stuck to the treadmill so at least I wouldn't have any major change in temp - just 2 on Tuesday, 3 on Wednesday and 4 yesterday. Hoping to finally get back outside today but will still try to keep it smart for the next day or so. Was scheduled to do 16 tomorrow but I might hold back on that. We'll see. Anyway, as I said, proud that I kept it going and here I am at day 83 so 27 more to go.

While there's no convenient segue to this, sad to learn - initially from my frat brother, blog follower and fellow Seinfeld junkie that Daniel von Bargen, the actor that played Mr. Kruger, one of George's many bosses, shot himself this past Tuesday. I'm sure many of you already know of this so let's just hope that since he miraculously survived, he makes a very full recovery.

I hope you don't find it in bad taste - I don't really think it is, but it made me think of the many bosses and jobs George has throughout the show. SO can you chronologically name George's jobs and his bosses. In two of those, he has very direct confrontations with them that involve rather inappropriate behavior, can you name them (hint: one of them involves a job he got minutes before he makes the inappropriate gesture).

Well, looking back (and actually forgetting that two days I ago I said I overdid it) it all makes sense. I got slammed pretty much full force with a flu bug today. It actually started yesterday and again, had the chance to quit while I was ahead. Had done a kind of crummy three miles on the treadmill in the am - just keeping it slow and going through the motions. But I brilliantly brought my gym bag with me for the day and finding myself with several hours between appointments, decided I could do better on a PM run. Not really - did 4+ miles and a better pace but could just tell I had tapped into not being well. By the time I was done my 2nd meeting - sniffles, aches and all, just felt like crap. Would have kept it at home today but had promised a friend that I'd help her get ready for a project we were working on.

So what do I do? You may remember some other blog post where I said you know you're really into this on that day that you absolutely shouldn't run. But you do. That was me today. I felt this flu think all day. Came home early to get some rest. And yes, would anyone know if I didn't actually run. Yes - me! So two miles and the streak will continue. And I'm sure I will tomorrow too but it will be the bare bones minimum.

Speaking of illnesses, several Seinfeld episodes involve hospitals with at least one member - if not all of the gang - ending up there. Can you name at least three episodes that involve hospitals? As a hint, one episode involves a Jewish ritual -that same episode invokes a classic/favorite movie - what movie is it? In yet another, a long forgotten candy figures somewhat prominently into the ending. Can you name the candy? That's probably enough for today - have fun!

OK, stupidly overdid it today on a day that should have been a rest day. After two good days on interesting and somewhat challenging surface (concrete, trails, etc), thought I'd just keep it to a light three miles on the treadmill. Well, that kind of happened in the morning although I stepped it up a bit more than was necessary. But then these Sunday all-work afternoons kills me. I love that I can be productive - lot of stuff got done - but I feel so sedentary that I'm dying to move. So I did another three miles on the treadmill at a pace that was more challenging than necessary. Ended up with six+ miles on day that really shouldn't have been more than three max. Hope I don't have to learn from my mistake.

Anyway, on a lighter note, looking forward to the Rangers game where they play the tragically bad Columbus Blue Jackets. The highlight is clearly checking out Rick Nash who is clearly on his way to getting traded to the Rangers - or one of four other teams. I truly hope they don't bust up what has been a fantastic team to get him though. They need some scoring punch but chemistry means a ton. And for once they have it...

See you tomorrow

Rockefeller with the Dogs...And seafood

we were eager to again take advantage of the great weather so we headed up to the Rockefeller Preserve with our two dogs. For those of you that aren't New York based, a little past Tarrytown, there is a beautiful and bucolic chunk of land - I'm honestly not sure how much - that was part of the Rockefeller estate. It's a great spot that has several miles of trail, a lake, trees - the works. As my wife and I agreed, when we're there, we feel "outdoorsy".

Anyway, I have a neighbor - definitely an elite runner as opposed to myself (a slow but sound runner I like to say) that has always told me of the joy of running with her dog at Rockefeller. So I thought to myself that this would be a great opportunity to have a nice recovery run after my long(er) run yesterday. My wife was fine with me taking Sabrina for a 1/2 hour run while she walked much slower with our other guy and then eventually reconnecting. The only thing I can say is that at Rockefeller, there are many runners. And there are many folks with dogs. But I was the only guy running with his dog and it sure felt that way. Maybe it was the time of day (2:30/3:00), maybe it's because my dog is a bit of a street dog maniac (a.k.a. very badly behaved). Suffice to say (since Saturday night live is almost on and I'm wrapping up); not something I'm doing again soon. But gotta try it once.

On a lighter note, we went to my absolute favorite place for seafood tonight - more specifically crabs. As a little Seinfeld trivia, name at least two episodes where seafood is discussed as a seafood option. Hint: I"m thinking of one episode where George's life starts to move in a new direction and another where his mother's does as well. BONUS: Which episode involves the capture of certain crustaceans?

Hills of yonkers and the Bronx

I took advantage of the unseasonably beautiful weather today -52 degrees mod February - and did my long run this afternoon. I ended up doing 13 challenging miles of yonkers/the Bronx that left the back of my legs feeling nice and spent from some major hills While my per mile time was notably different than my 10 miler downtown, still ran a respectable pace that I'd be happy covering a marathon with. O kind of nice to be able to sleep in tomorrow as opposed to getting up early to fit that into my Saturday.

FREE SOMETHING! '76

the title is a combination experiment and nod to the fact that I hit day 76 which with some historical is the day our country moved in the direction of freedom. In reality, it's not the day we got our freedom rather we just declared it. The experiment by the way is just seeing if more people read this - or at least view this page with the heading FREE on it. Kind of like the old FREE BEER thing we used to do when we were trying to get people to come to the non-paying gigs I use to play in the early '90s when I had more hair. Anyway, I'll let you know tomorrow. I know I've been a bit lax on the postings...no excuse really. Just long, week which kept me from my consistency.

Running wise, the week has been really predictable but good. I've been following a really steady recipe of suggested training from Runner's World - all aimed towards preparation for a moderate comeback from the poor showing in Miami. I was reading about this Pittsburgh Marathon and it sounds like a good challenge - I know Pittsburgh and there are some hills but I'm starting to believe that all these supposedly "fast and flat" marathons I run don't work so well for me. Might as well try something with some clear challenges. I'm definitely putting in time on hill training....the one thing every review made clear is that the climb up to the University Area - probably a 2 mile thing - is tough. So, gotta be ready for that.

And finally, on the subject of freedom, history and 1776, I google Seinfeld and Freedom and you know what came up?? The "Freedom"Dance Kramer does when he's released from jail. So let's take it from here. Why was Kramer put in jail? Where was the jail? What series of incidents led to Kramer being outside of New York (yes, that's a hint). Good luck. BONUS: There are several interesting cameos in the double episode that the questions connected to. Can you name them? And for a super bonus, what other sitcoms were those stars from? Wow - someone's really going to take home some great prizes!

Valentine's Day

You shouldn't be reading this! You should be out celebrating Valentine's Day - Hallmark, Whitman's and Godiva said so....

But if you are, glad to have you. Running wise, cool day; good hill workout on the treadmill- after reading the description of the Pittsburgh Marathon and the steady uphill to get to the University Area, I was very inspired and looking forward to doing some significant hill work in the next few months. Sounds like my goal should be a solid and steady pace climbing up 2 or 3 miles. Seems like a good challenge. Also enjoyed a good run with our Teens Run Yonkers team in the Tibbetts Brook Park with several students really killing our figure 8 Loop - the did a great job.

Honestly, a bit stuck on Seinifeld related stuff; nothing pops into my head or (confession) no great googles having to do with the holiday, chocolates, greeting cards -see now we're just reaching. And I'm not into that. So we're just leaving it here for the day

Have fun whatever you're doing - or not doing. Or thinking about doing or not doing. Worst case, FX is showing every romantic movie you either wanted to watch or were forced to.

#71 - music, books, the Rangers and the face-painter

well, for those of you counting, I'm at 71. That's 71 days of running without a break in the action. There's nothing particular about 71 but I did decide to count today and that's where we're at. I did a pretty easy run today - nothing so significant about it; just 6 miles on the treadmill at 4:15 in the AM. So why am I writing about it? Because here's space to fill - and you're reading it. Maybe? Maybe you've just stopped and said "surely I have something more interesting to do than read about (fill in your description). And you probably do. But hey you're here so a couple other interesting things to share:

First, if you like the band "the Fray", get their new album called "Scars and Stories". The first song, Hearbeat is pop-hitworthy and I've been overplaying it now for the entire day. Excellent stuff. On another absolutely unrelated note, I've been reading Nathan Englander's book called "What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank" - also highly recommended - funny, thought provoking interesting writing. What does this have to do with running? Absolutely nothing. Absolutely nothing. But that's the beauty of it. My blog, my prerogative to write about whatever...

Finally, just wondering why aren't people talking about the New York Rangers as much as they should be. OK, OK the Giants won the Super Bowl. It's done.. Over. Congratulations - wonderful for the city etc.,etc. But do people realize that the Rangers are having the most amazing season since they won the Stanley Cup in 1994 and that they are neck and neck with the Detroit Red Wings - another fantastic original 6 franchise - for the best record in the league. These guys are so inspiring to watch. Every time you watch them, you see them discovering new ways, new plays and different players to win games. I hope when it's Cup time, New Yorkers will at least rally around them.

And I didn't plan it this way but since I'm on the subject of the Rangers, in the infamous face-painter episode, who gives Jerry and company the tickets to the game. And - here's a tricky one - someone that receives credits for the production of the show shares the same name as the ticket giver. What does he do i.e. producer, best boy (that sort of thing). This is definitely one for the die-hards...

Really nice to feel like I have my legs back. Had a great run along the Hudson River in the snow this morning. While I know that this stretch is incredibly flat and makes you what I would describe as deceptively fast, really enjoyed and felt like I had some good energy. Most interesting was once I passed the fourth mile, I actually felt much better - looser and better stride. All really good - and love it when I push myself to be in the snow; something very conquering about the experience.

Also had a lot of fun the previous day when I very intentionally set myself up to do my own little spring triathlon or something like it. Did a 3.1 mile run on the tmill, jumped off that and hit the bike for 13 miles, hosed myself off and hit the pool for 10 minutes and made sure I didn't stop moving for the full 10. With the swimming, I think I'm just afraid to ask how long it is but now that I'm writing this, thinking how stupid is that. Since I'm probably just going to start with one of those spring things anyway, might as well figure out how to do my best 1/2 mile and focus on it. makes sense

And speaking of being downtown - that's where I was running this morning (that part of the Hudson River where it rounds around the bottom of Manhattan), reminds me of the time George's boss, Mr Wilhelm asks him to do a very special assignment. If only George knew what it was! What are some of the clues he's able to piece together? Does he ever actually finish it? And what singer is mentioned as part of a clue? Wow, that's a lot. Surely you have something better to do on Saturday night than this. Right?

And by the way, if you're still reading this 1) thanks and 2) join as a follower (it just makes me feel better)

catch up - and does anybody remember BOB MOULD?

missed yesterday so doing a little bit of catch up...sort of a busy running day but all good. Started with 5 miles in the morning - sort of a short tempo with five minute warm-ups and cool downs; good pace. As it was such a beautiful day yesterday, enjoyed a great short run with our Yonkers High School students. I know I keep saying it but I am just amazed by the dedication and enthusiasm of these runners - they all run at a wide range of paces but you can clearly see that each one of them gives it all. Really cool to see

One more thing on the running and fitness piece of things - very psyched to start working with a trainer over at New York Sports Club. I have to say that while my performance down in Miami was - I think humbling would be the right word - it was definitely a learning and growing experience. It definitely put it out there to me that I need more (well, I need to start with some!) non-running training....to be a better runner. So I'm looking forward to developing a routine that involves some strength, core and other pieces to round it out.

Another positive note was that we had a great little get-together for some of our Teens Run Yonkers Board members last night. Always amazes me and love to see how you can introduce three people from seemingly very separate places and/or parts of your life and your find commonalities. It was great to see and know that we have an excellent team to help lead the way on our program.

Speaking of which, we went to a place called City Winery and I didn't even realize till we went there that one of my favorite guitarists/singer/songwriters was playing there that night. I will age myself here but if anyone remembers the band Husker Du - speed metal punk ala the mid 80's from minnesota? Ringing bells? Well, their lead guitarist and singer Bob Mould has been a favorite since I was introduced to the band Sugar - his offshoot band - in the early 90's. Anyway, I get down there and found he was playing there - seems like a very positive coincidence

And continuing that train of thought to our final Seinfeld wrap-up, in the "Hot and Heavy" episode, Elaine is dating an ace saxaphone player who ends up writing the song "Hot and Heavy". How did that come about? Describe the chance encounter that led to it...And what was the very final result of all this?

just a quick one and lots of thanks

hope this isn't too corny but want to use tonight's post to just appreciate...first, a big thank you to lots of great folks that clearly stepped up and supported TRY in our first ever (friendly) competition with other projects to earn a $1,000 grant. While we didn't hit #1, we really jumped places moving from a dead last 60 to well under 30 at various times - so a big nice move. As we always tell the students that run with us, it's Effort Over Outcome and it was so great to see people step up and show support for our new and growing program. We'll get it next time - all really good and I appreciate all of it

On the running note, a little bit of appreciation there as well. Having a nice recovery and stepping back up to five milers - well, technically 4.5 today but we'll be there by friday and even looking forward to a short long run over the weekend. So feeling good and glad of it...

Finally, on the Seinfeld front, it's been fun as I've clearly found a few people who need to get a life as much as I do (you know who you are) but want to keep the conversation going. As tomorrow, I'm going to meet with some other folks that I partnered with to host a volunteer happy hour a few weeks ago, I've got events on my mind. And who can forget the amazing Jewish singles event that Kramer hosted while getting Frank Constanza back in the kitchen. You may remember that Frank had been an amazing chef back in the day and served in the war. What happened that made him swear he would never cook again. And for the bonus: What happens in the Costanza household that inspires Frank to take up the spatula again?

day 67

from the running prospective, nothing terribly exciting. I finally did a count and I'm at day 67 - so 43 to go. From the actual running perspective, very quiet day. Woke up a bit later than I wanted to so just did 40 minutes on the tmill so about 3.6 miles. I guess I'm being sort of overly cautious in recovery. If I want to look at it from the very positive perspective, I feel like I'm already training for my next one and this semi-rest - very forced rest - period is part of the whole package. So on we go

Keeping it simple for tonight -

A little catch up and another Seinfeld Football Trivia QUestion

So I've been a little lax on the blogging. Well really not that bad - just Super Bowl Sunday where it just got late and blah, blah, blah...

Anyway, just to jump too it, streak is still alive and I'm guessing into the 60+ day range; I'll check it out one of these days soon. Sunday, just did the treadmill thing which was kind of helpful to sort of set the re-set button on a day of work and what turned out to be tons of snacking. By 4:00 I must have consumed an entire days worth of calories in potato chips and just decided I needed to start my day over and get out of this eating fest. So I did with 3 miles on the treadmill at an extra quick pace - and man did it feel good to get myself out of potato chip land.

Today was kind of fun too. I definitely have to get the dust off the bike as I am definitely seeing some good effect from this cross training stuff. I went to the gym and had planned to use the hour to hit the bike, some weights and a swim. I found myself really enjoying the hill program on the stationary bike and a high level and did 23 miles in an hour. Now I just have to see if I can actually do that on the road. Biking in Yonkers is really a challenge; tons of hills, city traffic, reckless drives - you name it, we've got it. So, it's definitely going to take me loading the bike into the car and heading north to the north trail. But I'm getting more motivated every day and I'm close to doing it. For the afternoon, I was out with our Yonkers High Students. We did a nice jog to Tibbetts and had them do a tempo loop of about 1000 meters and timed them. Overall, kind of a light day in the running area as we let them more or less walk back. I did another three on the tmill when I got back...

So that's the scoop up through today. And one more Seinfeld Football (NOt necessarily Super Bowl stuff) trivia; Elaine has a boyfriend with a somewhat "notorious" name. What's the boyfriend's name and what motivates him to eventually change it?

OK - this is going to be quick as I'm preparing for the Super Bowl tomorrow...OK, that's not actually true. Truth be told I'm barely a football fan. My last memory of really enjoying a football game was the 1991 playoffs when the Giants - OK at least I am partial to them - were in the Super Bowl against, I believe, the Buffalo Bills. That was the year they won despite losing Phil Simms when a little know subbing quarterback named Jeff Hostetler helped them do it. I actually remember celebrating at was then, the hub of my life. It was a little Chinese restaurant on the East Side of New York named Billy Tso's - better known as Billys. My guess is that it's not even there anymore - I'm not sure as I rarely have reason to be in the mid-40s in East New York. OK - I'll check (a.k.a. as Google it)- nope, not there. That does remind me; however, that it was around the corner from another one of the oldest Chinese Restaurants - and I'm not just saying this - was the one that the infamous Hop Sing Restaurant that figured prominently in a Senifeld episode with Ned the Communist.

OK - so, I've massively digressed. Did someone say this was supposed to be a running blog. OK, this was all to distract that today wasn't terribly interesting but I did have a nice run. I was trying out a new pair of running shoes which I was so pleasantly surprised loved. If you're a fan of this whole minimalist or at least semi-minimalist thing, Brooks has a line of shoes they call the Pure Project. Full disclosure, my absolute favorites and the only shoes I've been loyal to are Newtons (but we'll talk about them another time). Anyway, this Brooks line is very cool - light but with the slightest bit of cushioning. I happen to buy their trail shoe and was really excited to hit what I thought was going to be some trail. Ended up that there wasn't much more than about a mile and a half of trail so the rest was "pure" pavement. These shoes ended up having such a nice indescribable push that gave a great ride. Also pushed myself a bit further than the last five days and did a well paced four miles. Really a pleasant surprise with some shoes I was really thinking of returning. By the way, if you're still searching for that perfect running store, I have really become a fan of Road Runner Sports. While they do have retail stores, there aren't any in NYC or close. But I buy online and they have amazing customer service that includes a very liberal 60 day return policy. They were amazing recently when I asked if they would take back a pair of shoes I've had for about 120 days that actually developed a tear on the inseam. No problem. Definitely worth checking out. Lots of VIP specials too- it cost 10 bucks a year to be a vip and you get it back in Spades.

So that was today. Well, I've set myself up well for some trivia. First off, I'm not bringing up this new Seinfeld Superbowl Ad- honestly not so crazy about it. But, there is an episode where the Super Bowl figures in prominently. This is a multi-part question. Jerry gets tickets to the Super Bowl. Does he go? Who else gets possession of the tickets? Do they go? What gift item figures into the story. Your really thinking about this when you should be getting ready for your party? OK...GO GIANTS (no really, I mean it)...

I think I might have to try this Sprint Triathalon Thing

I have to thank Dave Halloran, a great and enthusiastic runner and supporter of lots of the stuff I've gotten myself involved in. He was one of the first to provide ideas for Teens Run Yonkers and frequent sounding board for ideas for the organization - and if memory serves - a big part of coming up with the name Teens Run Yonkers. I always want to give credit where it's due....

Anyway, after my post yesterday where I semi-jokingly mentioned my semi-triathalon, Dave suggested trying a Sprint Triathalon. I think the bug has been planted. I woke up this morning kind of determined to both try the swimming thing again. The way my day evolved, it turned out I only had about an hour to work-out so I tried my own little version of an indoor sprint; I jumped on the tmill for a two mile run; hit the stationary bike for a 5 mile bike ride (I know it's supposed to be a ten but didn't have the time) and then jumped in the pool and did my version of swimming for a bit over 15 minutes. I was pleasantly surprised that I felt the smallest bit better on the swim thing than yesterday. It's really amazing how difficult a simple thing like breathing can be under different circumstances. Like being underwater. Given that I've been listening to a ton of Mat Kearney - if you haven't heard of him, think of Chris Martin/Coldplay but playing stuff on an acoustic guitar with an occasional rap mixed in - I've been thinking of one of his songs. He has an awesome song called Breathe In Breathe Out. Sound fairly instructional right?

So, I'm definitely thinking .25 mile swim/10 mile bike and a 2 mile run - definitely doable if I can just get the swimming thing to an adequate place. And I don't think I have to separate it from training for a marathon as this is just all good cross training.

And speaking of pools, as a trivia point, there are at least two episodes that have to do broadly with swimming - identify them. Hint: they don't necessarily have to do with a pool.

my first - sort of - triathlon

Well today was kind of a fun and busy training day. While I'm still trying to play it safe and think of this as a recovery week, I pushed it just the smallest bit today and enjoyed myself. I started off this morning with a nice 45 minute bike ride - about 11 miles.

Then, since I keep hearing how good swimming is for you, I went to the New York Sports Club (they're everywhere - they're everywhere!) to give my new membership a try. I'm lucky as I live near one of their few clubs with a pool. Having never been much of a swimmer, I wasn't really sure what to expect. What I most didn't expect was having to wear a bathing cap! Keep in mind, most of my outings to pools in the last 10 years have either been laying near them with a drink and/or getting in them, ducking my head underwater and getting out. So actually swimming??? Really? I decided to go easy on myself and made the commitment that I would stay in the water and move forward (in some fashion the that involved my hands and feet) for at least 20 minutes. Let, me tell you - this was hard! I was fortunate that there was a kindly lifeguard/swim instructor who provided a few tips and suggestions regarding kicks, strokes, etc. IN the end, I stuck it out for a whole 30 minutes which ended with a good feeling of exhaustion. Definitely something good to mix it up with and get better with.

I also had a really fun run with our Teens Run Yonkers group. I actually forgot my watch - it was incredibly liberating to just run and not bother worrying. I was actually finding myself moving at a really good pace and for some reason, my legs were feeling great- maybe with the 3 milers, there's an overall feeling of rest giving me back a little bit. Anyway, a really nice 3 mile run with this great group of students. The whole no-watch thing definitely as it's merits

So I guess you could say that was my first semi? Triathalon; 11 miles of biking, 20 minutes of swimming and a 3 mile run. There you go. I'll take it- and yes, I'm definitely thinking about it now but have to get the swimming thing right first?

On one final sad note, Ian Abercrombie who player Mr. Pitt on Seinfeld passed today at age 77. Here's a note about it:http://news.yahoo.com/actor-mr-pitt-seinfeld-dies-77-004906820.html. We'll return to the fun and funny stuff tomorrow and remember him today.

and we're back..again

well, it's back to the norm or at least something like the norm. I have to say that I've been really touched by encouraging words! My favorite so far - my co-coach for our Teens Run Yonkers was so thrilled for me since he thought my best previous time had been a 6 hour run. So, he was ready to announce to all the students about my tremendous improvement. But it was touching how excited he was for me - and still was after I explained that it was really kind of reverse. Anyway, enjoying my light recovery runs and not putting pressure on myself other than to keep up my streak which I believe is at 60+ days of running.

And I never really did connect Seinfeld to a marathon so...name two episodes that where the New York Marathon figures in prominently (hint: one of them has to do with an alarm and the other---well I'll let you figure it out

This is my longest post ever - it's about the race I ran this weekend. It's chock full of wisdom - or something like that....

Did you ever think you've got a ton of things to write and then, when you finally have that moment when you can sit down and write, you're stuck? I'm feeling that way at this moment. So I guess I'll just start....

I was kind of touched that a few folks who read this with some regularity - and I keep being pleasantly surprised that there area - inquired about the race this weekend. As I've reminded folks over the past few weeks, I was looking forward to running in the Miami Marathon this past weekend. And i had really been anticipating a strong performance - if not a PR- after hitting my best time yet in the Philly Marathon a few months back. This race looked like a great opportunity to do so - a good flat course that started at 6:15 AM to help avoid some of that Miami Heat (the weather not the thing Lebron James plays on). I was also happy to have the opportunity to visit my Dad and fiancée who spend the winters there now.

Anyway, I felt well prepared to do well. I had been following a Runners World Smart Coach training schedule to the letter. I had even been lightening my pacing which as anyone who runs knows is hard to do. The hardest thing to do is protecting you from yourself when it comes to overdoing it with training and I really thought I was doing this. Now, I guess the fact that I was running every day for the last 60 had to represent some additional strain but I really wasn't that worried.


Well, let me just jump into it. I had a terrible race - or should I say I ran what I considered to be a very disappointing race given my recent experiences. For absolute clarity, my last run in Philly was a 5:10 and I was absolutely shooting for sub 5. My chip time for Sunday was 5:40 - yes 5:40. Now, I don't want to sound the least bit disparaging of anyone for whom that number represents a wonderful pace. As we're constantly telling the teens that run in our program is that everyone should run their own race - and their best pace. And on reflection, that number would have been a vast improvement over my first four marathons which were in the 6 hour range.

But it's about expectations, appreciation and doing your best with what you're presented with. We've talked about my expectations. The reality of the day is that I - unwisely - went out too quickly and didn't pull myself back in the first half. So, what happened? Well, I cramped up around mile 15/16 to the point where I actually called my wife and told her to wait a 1/2 hour before coming to meet me. I didn't want her to worry if I was later than I anticipated and I didn't want to pressure myself to get there. Bottom line I was actually thinking of quitting. During most of these, there's a part of the race where I seriously ask myself why am I doing this? Who would care if I quit? But this time it was really strong. Really strong. But I still said no. I would no if I quit and I really couldn't take that. So I pushed it. I ran a mile. I walked a mile.

When I got to mile 20 or so, I was thrilled to see a friend from a work training program who was also struggling. While I wasn't happy to see her struggling, she seemed to be in the same boat and it was wonderful to have someone to pass the last five miles or so with. I was thrilled for her that she was able to get her energy up and have a really strong last mile or so - it was her first and I was happy that she finished strong.

As for me, I more or less hobble/ran till the end and was happy to see my wife and daughter waiting at the finish line for me. And I was happy it was over.

I was initially ready to say that this will be the last for me. But over the last two days, I've come to some conclusions and I'm pretty happy with them. And while I still would have loved my sub 5 time, I'm going to move on from this experience with a couple new chunks of wisdom. I hope at 47, I'm not sounding preachy or anything but I guess that's the beauty of these marathons and why I haven't been content to just doing them.

1. Some days it's just not your day. Ironically, in my professional life I've come to see this as well after a little bump in the road. For whatever reason, karma, the sun, the moon, the tie you're wearing or the color of the wall, it's just not going to swing your direction. So, what to do? Still give it your best effort, know that you put in the best prep you could and know that if it's meant to be, it will be there another day. And the "it" could be a best race, successful presentation, winning some business or something else.

2. Kind of a variation on the above, give it your best effort, don't leave anything on the table and DON'T QUIT. Again, I was still proud that I had put in the best training I could. (Admittedly, I wouldn't try an abridged one month training again). And after sucking it up, I'm still proud to have finished the race, one where I was questioning my ability to do so.

3. Running with someone is incredibly helpful. Actually the person I ran with and I had just met each other at a training for work and didn't know each other that well. But it was wonderful to have someone to talk to and distract me from the challenges I was dealing with. This experience really had Teens Run Yonkers written all over it in the sense that we're constantly reminding our runners that it's effort over outcome. In addition, the mentor is there as a guiding force especially in those longer and tougher moments that can come towards the end of the race. The bonds created during those moments are so amazing and valuable.

4. Respect the distance of the marathon or (insert name of whatever race you're training for). In life, respect the full challenge and depth of whatever you're attempting. This is not an excuse but I was either underprepared for the distance - or overextended from the consistent running without a break. The reality is that I decided and registered for the Miami Marathon on 1/6 - so I was essentially using a three to four week training schedule. I was thinking that I would still have some of the residual training benefits left over from my last race in November. Wrong! In retrospect, I hadn't run a quality long run at an above 12:30 pace since finishing in Philly in late November. The little 5 week training thing between races was fine but this lag was way too long and I simply hadn't put in the distance training required. And trying to make it up by doing a 15 miler the previous weekend seems even sillier writing this now.

So those are my takeaways. What next? You're still reading this? Wow! Anyway, what next is a smart amount of recovery with short runs for the next couple of weeks. And then sights reset on a marathon where I'll have at least ten weeks to train. If you're wondering if I've already identified it, absolutely. The Pittsburgh Marathon on May 6.

And a last one before miami marathon

Had a nice light run light 2 mile run from our hotel down to where the marathon starts, the america airlines arena. Looking forward to a great race tomorrow. Great to see everyone done here psyched and ready to go tomorrow at 6:15. Look forward to letting you know how it goes. (and of course, keep on voting for TRY!

Here in Florida

Down in sunny (well somewhat sunny) Florida and enjoying some family time. Had a great almost last run before Sunday's marathon...it's son wonderfully flat down here that I found myself pacing much quicker than my intended marathon pace; definitely need to be mindful of that on Sunday.

another thanks to everyone who attended last night's Happy Hour for Helping. And, thanks for all the voting for TRY in the
GOOD healthy contest. As a reminder, seems like you can vote multiple times do go ahead and vote again today

just a quick one....

great day that started with a great tempo run - if I can do this pace or even close in Miami, I'll be really happy..The day also ended on a wonderful note with so many great folks coming to our Happy Hour for Helping! So cool to lots of people interested in getting involved in their community. Finally, THANK YOU AGAIN everyone who has been voting for TRY in the GOOD Healthy Contest - we're up to #28 - LET'S KEEP IT GOING!!

So for those of you who were totally fearful that I had missed a day and the streak had ended...you can exhale and stop worrying! In fact, Day 53 (yesterday) was a great day of running - although not as light as I might have wanted to be for tapering purposes. But nevertheless, didn't miss a day of movement - just my first day where I truly zonked out while watching Monday's Two And A Half Men on DVR. My intent had been to do it immediately after. Oh well, nobodys (even close to) perfect.

Yesterday started off with the recommended 3 mile taper run at an easy pace. But in the afternoon, we had a nice small group of runners for Teens Run Yonkers and what a gorgeous day. So we hit the park for another 3 miles and I had to kick up a few notches to keep with these great, energetic students. But a lot of fun! They are really doing an awesome job of it. Speaking of Teens Run Yonkers - and be prepared to start hearing this a lot - please click on this link to vote for us as part of the Good Healthy New Year Challenge - we can $1,000 if we get the most votes: http://healthy.maker.good.is/projects/RaceTraining


And spread the word -

Anyway, took it a light lighter today - just two easy miles and about 11 miles on a stationary bike. Gave my legs a nice break...

So since I've left off my Seinfeld stuff for a bit, I've got plenty of great material since we're headed to Miami in a few days.

First, some trivia. Jerry's parents live in a lovely retirement community called Boca Del Vista. There are various phases of the development so, which Phase is their unit housed in. Definitely a 4.5 degree of difficulty on this one.

And a clip if you're looking for the hint: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8F9T8ukqRRo

light taper run

not a lot to report today - definitely in good taper mode and just did a light two miles in the rain - what a gross day!

more tomorrow--

CoNGRATS GIANTS - etc.,

well, it's 10:40 and I'm writing this after watching the Giants win it and get into the Super Bowl. I have to be honest here- I'm much more of a hockey fan and have been loving watching the Rangers jump to the top this season. But watching this game was pretty exciting even for an occasional football fan like me -

Anyway, just wanted to do this and keep my consistency. With the Miami Marathon a week from today, definitely in taper mode and just did a quick 2 miles today at a brisk pace (for me that is). Looking forward to doing things the smart way this week - plenty of hydration, a bit more R&R than usual and true tapering (as opposed to psycho tapering where you just can't restrain yourself and follow the dumb rule of more is more; when in fact the week before, less is actually much more).

Keeping it quick as I'm working on the R&R part - Congrats Giants and all of their very loyal fans....

one last long one before next week's marathon. Health Club related Seinfeld Trivia

I admit it - in the interest of full disclosure, I ran on a treadmill for 15 miles today. What fun! Actually it wasn't bad but I really do need to figure out what the deal is with the shuffle on my iPod because listening to the same 10 songs over and over and over and over (you get the point) is fairly mind numbing. We had around 3 to 5 inches of snow here in New York today and really, this was the last day I could fit in a long run so I just did it. Now, I realize I could have been trekking around in the snow - and I did feel a pang of guilt as I was looking out the window of the New York Sports Club and saw one or two "real runners" out there. And I know at least one person who reads this would have been out there in his Brooks (I'll allow him to be anonymous but I know his shoes and he knows who he is) killing it and making tracks in the snow. But, I played it safe and didn't want to run/skate through Manhattan. Nevertheless, kept a really good pace, felt great and someone even complimented by form and bright yellow Newtons (my very favorite brand of running shoes).

On an absolutely unrelated note, so psyched that the Rangers beat the Bruins today with 4 seconds left in overtime - hopefully gets them back on the steady track.

OK -I was going to blow off the Seinfeld thing but why not? Since I had to do my run at a health club today and usually don't use those; my related trivia question....Don't remember the name of the episode but in it, Elaine gets an open-lipped kiss from a fellow gym member while waiting for George to meet her out front. What was the guy's name and what was his occupation? Why was George late to meet her?

Trains, Planes (well no planes) and Day 48

Well, again, I never said math was a strong suit of mine and I was reminded of that when I went to figure out where I'm at. I'm embarrassed to say that a few days ago, I said I was at 50 - don't know where I got that count from! This was actually Day 48. Still, happy with that and especially to be able to do it today. Full disclosure, we had my fraternity reunion last night which was great. So nice to catch up with a terrific group of guys and share some great memories. As I think I mentioned yesterday (day before?), I was just at U of M for two years but two fun filled years. Little bit of a challenge to wake up this AM and do 5 miles but I did - not like it was 20+ (no, I'm not giving the full number) when it was no problem to get right up after a night of several glasses of good wine (and back then it was beer). But I digress. Got up and did an easy five in preparation for my final long run before the Miami Marathon next Sunday. going for 15 to 20 tomorrow as long as the weather allows - we shall see

Also, thanks to my first official follower on this blog! On that note, it really is nice to see- and don't be shy about telling me - that people do really read this with some consistency. I do appreciate it and hope I'm keeping it mildly interesting; I admit it's become a bit of a kitchen sink of stuff beyond running.. But hey, it's my blog so I might as well enjoy it.

So on that note, Seinfeld time. So in my continuing attempt to try to create links from my life or running, I'll share that I took the train back from DC.. So I I've included both a trivia question and a clip:

The trivia question: In the subway episode, where is Jerry headed and what is Elaine's destination???

Here's the clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnDjjtgYtMA&feature=related

Running is just good. That seem's liken some painfully successful marketing slogan for something. Im startingwith that because professionally, this week has been really challenging. Nothing terrible, just a.bunch of draggy.little things that came up that slowed my progress on projects.and were justa drag. But the saving grace-one of them anyway-was so far a.great, ,easured week oof smart training with solid non-junk miles; at 40 so far for the week with one more semi-long scheduked for saturday. And starting each day knowing that is good.

The other bright spots for the week-and my wife really looked at me strangely when I
Told her this;discovering the jason mraz song "The Remedy". We have a joke in my famiky ths ti usually discover music 5 to 10 years after its popular. Im right on schedule since it cam rout in 2002! I've been playing it nonstop loop for 2 days now-it's the best .$69 i ever spent on itunes.
the other bright spot was buying the perfect NY Rangers hat yesterdsy-30% off all winter classic wear AND it fits like no other hat has-always tough to fimd that perfect fit baseball hat. C'mon admit it, not all hats fit equal.

Finally, if there's typos here and there, Im just getting use to the keyboard on my nook tablet and have.yet.tp.,aster.it-see what I mean?? Have a great day

getting later -- but still going - Reunions; Fraternity and Seinfeld

so yes, these postings are getting later. but the positives are that there's usually a pm run to report on and today's no exception. This morning did 6 easy miles at a very light pace and felt real good afterwards. Feeling even a bit more energetic I did what I'm calling my "mini-tempo" runs; typically a 45 minute session where I do the first 5 or 6 minutes at a very moderate pace and then the mid 35 at a challenging (for me anyway) pace i.e. a 10 minute mile. I feel like that's a good barometer of being able to do a fairly easy job of hitting at an 11+ pace for the race next week.

As it's a bit on the later side, will just share that I'm looking towards a nice two day trip down to Silver Spring/DC for my annual T(au) E(psilon) P(hi)fraternity reunion. While I was just at the University of Maryland for two fun years, still have great memories and it's been really nice to renew some friendships from back then; what a change to be swapping stories about where our kids are headed to college instead about our own days of college - though there's still plenty of that too.

And in the spirit of reunions, I will share a clip from the Reunion Episode. I'll also add that while I loved the show, the Reunion Episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm didn't really grab me. I do enjoy Curb but not as much as Seinfeld and in it's absence, still a favorite. And, speaking of my fraternity, Mr. Larry David was also a TEP, so there!

Here's a clip...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-qP563KaBY

day something - and lots of good speedwork

since at it's core this is supposed to be a running blog, nice to share some stuff from today thats related to---running. First, I've gotten into a really good rhythm of doing my suggested mileage - that's suggested by Runners World Smart Coach - into two segments, particularly on days when I'm running with students participating in our Teens Run Yonkers (TRY) program. So, for example, if I'm supposed to do 8 easy paced miles, I'm doing 4 or 5 in the early AM (and yes, they're on the treadmill) and then covering the remaining outside with our TRY participants. I was expecting today to be the same as we were scheduled to run today. So, I did a really well paced (for me) that is, 4 miles at about 10.15 per mile. Even though that was quicker than was my suggested, I just enjoyed it. We ended up doing our Teens Run stuff primarily inside today and did a bunch of good stretched and drills. So, to wrap up my suggested 7, I did 3.13 miles in 30 minutes for a 9.35 pace - again, much quicker than suggested but was just really feeling it so why not...I'll definitely lighten it up for tomorrow.

I'm really struggling to think of anything Seinfeld related that I can share or make into a trivia quiz. Oh here's something, I interviewed a candidate today for an internship and I will not editorialize on that as it's inappropriate. However, it does remind of me George's search for an assistant - remember him saying "I don't know why I never had an assistant before?" To which Jerry replies - Perhaps, it's because you never had a job before!". SO true...Anyway, some fun trivia. Can you provide the name of the woman who plays Ada? And what related show did she appear in some year's later?

Here's a clip from it:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RnDmTkhwMs

Day 50! Time flies when...time flies

given that I just have a few minutes between the Rangers-Canadians game (1 - 1 first period), i'll just comment that I happened to count today (first time in a bit) and realized that today was actually day 50. That seems like it should be a milestone and significant. Actually in 5 more days I'll be half way to goal and that's pretty significant. For today, did some fun running outside with both my dogs - though separately. Sabrina, that's the younger girl and I were outside in the lovely 20 degrees but she seemed to really enjoy it and for once was more focused on running than chasing squirrels. Maybe she was just trying to stay warm. We did about four miles. Than I took out Emerson - he's our older guy - and we just did some very light, and I mean very light, jogging for about 15 minutes. That's the most he's moved in about a year but he really seemed to enjoy it.

After that I did another four on the mill and a good quicker pace - all in all, some good indoor and outdoor stuff.

Ok, that's it. Back to the game. In all honesty, I'm not a big football person but to the many New Yorkers that read this - and I know there are tons - happy for you and the Giants. But the Rangers need to start getting some attention. I mean come on, these guys are #1 in the league!

Almost forgot. Thanks to Saturday night live

Wow. Just made it and was reminded about almost forgetting this as Saturday night live had this hilarious skit about how social networking sites have created vehicles with nothing terribly interesting going on to become amazingly relevant. Hmmmm. I'll just leave that where it is

Anyway, Im in beautiful pittsburgh for a cousins bat mitzvah. Was hoping to run around university of Pitt. Yea, I bailed. All I had was a pair of tights, a long sleeved shirt and windbreaker. There was no way that would cut I at 18 degrees. So, yes, wimped out ad did 6 miles in the tmill

More tomorrow.

day something (who's counting) - and announcing the ALL NEW Seinfeld Air Travel Episode Quiz

So I'm about 15 minutes from leaving for the airport. Oh yea, running stuff first...did a really good - meaning I felt really good doing it - 6.5 mile tempo run; I am really feeling like that this is the smartest I've trained for one of these. The proof will be in the pudding - what does that mean anyway? The proof will be on 1/29 when I run this. But doing some really good intelligent - dare I say - strategic runs.

But anyway, I'm about 15 minutes from leaving for the airport and I'm thinking to myself, what Seinfeld episode do I link this two. And it hits me that there must be a dozen or so episodes that have to do with flying or airports. Did I mention that I've got a reservation for a car when I get there (Pittsburgh) remember: it's easy to take the reservation but it's the HOLDING of the reservation that's the hard part..

So without further blathering, I give to you, for your fun and time wasting amusement, the Seinfeld AIR TRAVEL Quiz:

1. George surprises Jerry with an airport pickup and, as opposed to going anywhere else, encourages them to head right to Jerry's house. Why? (Short essay answer acceptable)

2. While waiting for Jerry at the airport, Kramer strikes up an interesting friendship with someone waiting in the lounge with him. What is the person's name and how do they pass the time.

3. On a flight home, Jerry is seated next to a passenger who get's sick on the plane and is asked to take care of the passengers dog. What is the dog's name? During the same episode, Elaine, George and Jerry have plans to go to the movies together which get broken because of the dog. What was the movie they were going to see?

4. When George and Kramer are at the airport to pick-up Jerry and Elaine, Kramer spots his old roommate. What is the roommate's name and why does Kramer want to confront him?

BONUS QUESTION:
Jerry's manager inform's him that the pilot from the day's flight will be in the audience for his show at a particular destination. Where was the show? And later in that same episode, what does Jerry deny (hint: I'm not ------- out!). How do Jerry and his manager ultimately get back to NYC? Why is he in such a rush?


I'd rate this a little harder than some of the quizzes I've done but hey, it's Friday night at 5:30 - what else are you doing right now?

shortest yet-

this is likely to be the shortest post yet as I'm time constrained today. did a 4.25 mile "mini-tempo run this morning; that's a five minute warm up and cool down and a mid 35 at about 30 seconds quicker than marathon pace... Felt good and glad to squeeze it in. More later if at all possible

getting later...and bossy pants, the Tiger's Wife and other random thoughts

so if you're following this - and there are many of you - perhaps you're noticing that these posts are trending later and later. It's actually for a reason and hopefully a smart one. I typically do my running in the morning but over the last few days, especially now that we're working with the high school in the afternoons, I'm splitting my longer running days (where I'm supposed to be doing 7/8 miles) into 1/2 in the morning and then 1/2 in the PM with the students. So, I'm posting after that. And if there's a window on those other days (i.e. today) to run in the PM, I'm doing that too so I can catch up on some much needed sleep. Hence, posting this at 10:23 after a nice dinner with my daughter - Wednesday is almost always Chinese or Pizza (tonight it was Chinese) and then some pretty intensive Xbox Hockey (Rangers/Islanders).

Anyway, after yesterday's multiple runs (including the long one), I took today really easy and did about 9 miles on the stationary bike and about 2 miles of light running on the mill. Definitely enough to break a nice sweat but not to much tax on the legs. Also, since I was on the stationary, started reading BossyPants, which I have to say is absolutely hilarious. Thanks to my daughter, I'm staring to get into a bit of - I don't know what they call it; Chick Comedy Lit? I read Mindy Khaling's book and loved that and she told me if I liked that one,I'd definitely like Bossypants. So far, yes.

By the way, since this blog can be whatever I want it to be and we're heading towards book reviewing, I also just finished "The Tigers Wife". Anybody read that? It's one of those books that's on everyone's 2011 Top 5 or 10 or whatever list. I think I recommend it. If that sounds weird it's because I couldn't stop reading it but half the time I wasn't even sure what or why I was reading it. Did you even finish a book and think "did I miss something?". That's how I felt - there seemed to be some major metaphors and I just wasn't sure I got them all. I lent my copy to a friend today so I'm eager to see what she thinks.

So that's todays ramblings...And since I've veered on to the subject of books and want to keep the Seinfeld thing rolling, how about a clip from the "Marlene" - that's the one where George has breaks up with his girlfriend but accidentally leaves his books at her house and begs Jerry to get them for her. He asks why he needs them back wondering "are you going to read them again - if not, why do you need them? Do you think if you read Moby Dick a second time Ahab and the Whale become good friends?" I always liked that....here's the clip"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4AUlPIZHfo

finally....and you can feel free to skip "Take Me Home Tonight"

I know, I know - 10:15 and you've been waiting for this post. Right...Anyway, lots and lots of running today. Had another great session with the students at Yonkers High School - we probably covered about 3 miles of distance stuff in addition to an uphill relay - the fun way to get in some hill repeats. The students did an amazing job and great to be out there with some former Yonkers High Students and some volunteers for Teens Run Yonkers

OK - here's my confession. We finished up our high school run around 4:30. This was truly the only day I could fit in a long run especially because this weekend is out. So, yes, it's true. I did 13 miles on my treadmill. I watched a fairly ridiculous movies while doing it called "Take Me Home Tonight" notable only because - well, it's really not notable for anything. Oh, actually that's not totally true. It seems like the cool thing to do is have all the movies take place or some how click back to the 80's. So, this is supposed to take place in the 80's with the big revelation that one of the main characters works at Drexel Burnham. For those of you who weren't paying attention during that time of pink ties and suspenders, Drexel was the junk bond king and the place where Michael Milken was a star trader (and then not so much) before he became an advocate for health and fighting cancer. True story. Anyway, the movie is fairly lame and only notable as it starts with "Video Killed the Radio Star" being played through a big boom box.

Anyway, did my 13 miles and the one positive I can say about doing it on a treadmill -besides replicating the life of a hamster is that it gets you in the practice of doing the run at the recommended light pace that a long run should be. So there's that.

So, that's my story for tonight. Then I watched the 2nd and 3rd period of yet another awesome with by the New York Rangers.

here's what you were waiting for - along with the Bottle Deposit and the Wait Out

6:15 PM and no doubt you're saying to yourself,"where's Grabel's blog?" I know. I understand. You've gotten attached to a steady diet of these fascinating updates about my daily running. And today was almost the first day that I almost forgot to post. It was actually a great and productive day in the running column (and some others).. Started out the day with a light 5 mile run on the treadmill a bit faster than my smart coach suggested pace. It was just enough to fit in one of the two episode seinfeld shows - the one where they work the deposit bottle scheme; here's a clip:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xez2n371MTo

and the Wait Out which features future (and sort of then stars) Deborah Messing and Carey (something - I can never get his name right but he was in the first Saw and played the hero in that great movie the Princess Bride; here's a clip from that one where Kramer is struggling with a barely broken in pair of jeans:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQuuvtOuVLE


This afternoon we had a real well paced 3 mile run with Teens Run Yonkers from Yonkers High School and these great students continue to amaze me. After we finished this, they did sprints as part of a relay race - just awesome.

Following that, I was so inspired by their speed, I did some of my own and revved up my treadmill to do about 2 9:30 miles on my treadmill (fast by my standards)

So there you have it - now you can enjoy the remainder of your day.

Day #37 - who needs sleep anyway?

Well, I'm writing this at 7:45 on a Sunday morning that I was hoping to use as a sleep catch up/restful day. I was still planning to fit something in, but something brief. Didn't quite happen like that....

For some reasons, I woke up at 3:30 AM and that was it. I tried reading - maybe a mistake - -and ended up getting caught up in what I was reading. Since I was doing it on my new nook, where there's a clock, I decided I would stop myself at 4:00 AM no matter what. After I did, all the sudden I had this urge to find other related books - you know that, "we recommend/if you like this, you'll like that more?" So now I'm looking at Anita's picks, at Sam's picks and all these other recommendations. The last thing on my mind is sleep.

I was able to limit myself and stopped the madness at 4:15 but now I'm wide wake but I vow to go back to sleep. I try everything - propping the pillows, getting in the right position and none of it's taking.....So at 4:30, just decided to start my day early.

Now that I've paid my registration for the ING Miami, I am, for once, really sticking to the schedule (Or as best I can with my 110 Day Challenge). Since today was supposed to be a rest day, I've changed it into a light cross train day so I did about 70 minutes on the stationary bike (14 miles give or take) and then an EZ two mile run. But my legs were really feeling it after.

All in all, nice to be able to start my Sunday super early - but I'll probably need a nap later!

Speaking of sleep - or lack of it - and naps, here's a clip from Seinfeld's "The Nap"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFlBM60x4OI

Running with the Dog - Dog 1, Person 0 (read this one, there's pictures and it's kind of funny)

fart·lek (färtlk)
n.
1. An athletic training technique, used especially in running, in which periods of intense effort alternate with periods of less strenuous effort in a continuous workout.

2. Grabel's definition: An athletic technique where you bring your insane street dog on your run; you mix periods of ez running with periods of intense effort as the dog lunges at squirrels, baby strollers, other dogs and various inanimate objects throughout the park

Obviously the above isn't quite real but I was reminded of this running technique as I ran (or something like it) with my crazy but lovable dog this afternoon. Here's a picture of her in more calm moments

Anyway, with the beautiful day outside today and a swap of an easy run at 12:25 replacing my long run day I thought, what a great day to run with my dog. Now, I've run with Sabrina (her name) before and it's always pretty much like this. But it always starts with me having this idyllic vision of "Running With Your Dog" that I hear other runners referencing. You get this picture of the runner and dog in motion together, enjoying each others company - at peace, happy, in sync. My experience isn't quite like this.

There typical pattern goes something like this:
First two miles: Sabrina is pulling from the start; she wants to do a 9 minute mile while I just want to keep to my pace. She's lunging at squirrels on the street, practically ready to head up a tree after them..
The next two miles: it starts to even out and now I'm actually ahead of her. Now I'm more at my tempo pace around 10 or 11 and she's starting to slog along. But she still has the energy to go after anything out there with fur.
The last two miles: I feel like I'm implementing cruel and unusual punishment. Despite stopping for a bit of water along the way, she's panting and laboring and using any opportunity to stop, sniff and rest. OK, perhaps more water would have helped but I'm letting her stop pretty often.

Well, maybe the next time will be the charm? Then I came inside, got my other dog, Emerson who is 10. Here the challenge isn't getting him to slow down, it's actually getting him to move. But I always take him out by ourselves after running with Sabrina so he feels like he's getting equal attention. It's a great cool down after a frenetic run with the other. Here's a pic of our handsome senior dog:

Finally, an easy Seinfeld to link to this story of dog joy, a few clips from "The Dog"

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1mexx_seinfeld-the-dog_shortfilms