2011

Another great year has reached the end. For Shannan and I 2011 was a year of wonder, learning, growth and opportunity. Best of all it was another year with no regrets. The Streak remains intact and is moving into its 15th year! We continue to enjoy great health. For me the past twelve months provided lots of good running, I increased core strength as well as my balance and flexibility. In the fall, I finally got my head around Yoga, that does NOT mean I love it, but I found the benefits to be sure.

During the year we enjoyed many day trips and visited a record number of fairs and festivals. We traveled for research and pleasure; of course the sociologist in me is ever present. Our out-of-town travel took us to England, Morocco, and we sailed along coastal Canada via the Inside Passage. We stopped in all the “A” states: Arizona, Alaska, Alabama, and Arkansas. Other states included Virginia, Washington, Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, and South Carolina. We had a good year indeed.

With regard to running, the Frogtown Challenge Race provided the highlight of the year. It was great fun and a nice change of pace. I managed to place in it and all the races I ran throughout 2011, not bad for an old man. Seriously, reflections like theses work well in motivating me to go out harder, and run faster in 2012.

We have an ambitious travel schedule for the year to come, including a new continent, new countries and loads more local festivals. I hope to add a new athletic event as well.

We are grateful to have experienced a magnificent 2011. I anticipate an even better 2012.

Tom

P90X Part Deux

Pre-orders of the P90X, the sequel to Tony Horton's extreme home workout program, have shipped. Fitness fanatics all over have unpacked the long anticipated package. Like others, I interrupted my regularly scheduled routine to get a glimpse of Horton's latest series of extreme workouts. I tore into the box like a child with a birthday gift. Having no concerns for instructions or warnings (and we all know this method rarely works well). I inserted the first disk, X2 Core, and when to work. An hour later, I felt sore, but not nearly as much I felt humiliated.

At this point I bothered to read the information booklet. On the very first page the CEO of the company notes that the exercises are difficult and are likely to cause a little ego bruising. Indeed! If you are considering this program, I encourage you to try the original P90X first. Not only will it get you physically ready, but you will find if Tony Horton's style is a good match for you.

In P90X2 Balance is the key. Learn from my mistakes, watch the videos first. Also, don't try to over do on the first round. I didn't follow the advice I'm giving now and have two knots on my head, a stiff neck, tight muscles all over and even a sore nose (I hit myself with an 8 lbs medicine ball mid exercise-not pretty). This was where it hurt physically and psychologically.

Bring It!

Tom

Mid 60s in Mid December

60 degrees in mid-December holds far more appeal than any invitation to a holiday party. Sunshine and warmth beckons me like an oasis to a Bedouin. Though far from the desert, I will get my warm climate loving self out for a late afternoon run.

Unfortunately, I have a meeting immediately after work. Each minute will be laborious regardless of how important the information being shared. As winter rapidly approaches and a really warm day lingers I’m like a child waiting for the school bell to ring, so I can go out and play.

Enjoy the nice weather.

Run.

Tom

Bowflex Selecttech 552

Tony Horton openly endorses Bowflex Selecttech 552 adjustable dumbbells in the P90X Plus series. These little jewels allow you to have one dumbbell that can be changed from 5 to 52.5 pounds with just a quick spin of a dial. These puppies are expensive, at least in my book ($399). I often advocate spending as little money as possible for exercising.

The reason I decided to go with the Bowflex Selecttech dumbbells as my progress in the P90X program caused me to need more weights, a good thing of sorts. Rather than buy several sets of weights from the "used" sports store, I went with one adjustable set. Ultimately, even with the big point price the Bowflex Selecttech ended up costing less. The Selecttech takes up less space, and truthfully they are kind of neat. Another benefit is the plastic hand grips are easy on the palms during workouts.

I'm not suggesting you run out and buy a set. I just want to note that I have been very happy with my purchase. Below is a link for more information:
http://www.bowflexselecttech.com/bowflex_selecttech_us/products.jsp?adID=DOSG2DSL1&pid=search

One final comment, I did NOT spend the money for the stands, which quite frankly look unstable and unsafe. I use an old side table for the weights. It's sturdy and does the job very well at a much lower price :-)

Run and Resistance. BFF.

Tom

A Day That Will Live As A Great Memory

I thought my morning treadmill workout to be a bore. I didn't care much as the exercise was a means to an end. I wanted to preserve the Streak as we had a long exciting day on tap. Joel joined us at 7:00 am, then as a trio of travelers we headed south toward Andersonville, GA. Our itinerary had us visiting the National Prisoner of War Museum and the Andersonville Civil War Prison and Cemetery. I know many of you are not seeing the excitement. It was tough stuff for sure, but an important part of American History. The museum may not be for everyone, it is powerful, for sure.

From Andersonville, we meandered across Middle Georgia to Warm Springs where we lunched at the Paradise Grill. Joel and I took in standard fare of salad and BBQ, Shannan when for the hotdog scramble, which does not include eggs. It's a hot dog loaded with chili, onions and soda crackers that has been sliced and "scrambled" together. We didn't linger after our meal, as is our tradition; instead we hurried to The Little White House.

Shannnan and I had visited the facility previously. She came many years ago when the museum was in an earlier incarnation. I saw the new museum shortly after it opened in 2005; however, it was with two bus loads of fifth grade students. So for all of us, touring the museum and the home was a first of sorts. Be certain its a trip well worth taking. Roosevelt was an impressive fellow most of his life. Without question FDR accomplished monumental feats with polio. I openly admit that my morning "boring" workout became all the more important to me.

Wars, depression, recession and other horrible things happen. Learn from them and live better.

Tom

While They Slept

How odd. An a major metropolitan entertainment city that sleeps. I started running at 5:30 am, not so early, around the intersection of International and Universal in Orlando's entertainment district. To my great surprise, for the most part of 45 minutes, I was the only one out and about. Only a couple of people waited for buses and the car traffic was nearly none exsistant. In the lovely temperature of the morning hours I did not lay eyes on a biker, runner, walker or even a dog walker. How odd.

This area is the exemplar of the mall sprawl concept. On the edge of Walt Disney World miles of hotels, restaurants, water parks, theaters and more stand prepared to handle overflow, of America's great escape fantasy park.

Disney World claims more territory than many independent nations, including Vatican City, and probably more yearly pilgrims. When in Rome, I felt the St. Peter's Square was too sacred to take a run, but that wasn't the case in Orlando. I enjoyed cruising along the wide side walks and breathing the warm Florida air. So, with a place so large that draws so many people and business, whatever were they doing asleep?

Sleep- Run.

A Road in Spartanburg

11 degrees warmer made a delightful difference for my second run in Spartanburg. A long lonely road, which occasionally paralleled the Interstate, provided my morning trek. Quiet and contemplative, the serene run really allowed for reflection on the previous day's adventures in upstate South Carolina. It had been grand.

Along the isolated access road I studied an abandoned building to my left. Somewhere in the past a large box business had enjoyed a highway front, but now the mainstream plaza span with hobby stores and super marts has absconded with the customers and revenues that once belonged to the frontage road companies. Back to the road, I don't where I expected this path to lead. I was surprised as it ended in a small subdivision.

With plenty of time to spare I toured the residential development. No one was out and about; it was much too early for Sunday School and most jobs. Two creatures were stirring, to my dismay, two pit bulls that is. A wave of panic flushed over me as I began considering exit strategies. Luckily the canines were inside an electric fence. I didn't want to test its reliability, so I did an about face and returned to the winding lonesome road that led back to our hotel.

I wonder what happens to electric fences when the power goes out. Yikes!

Tom

Pre-Thanksgiving Feasting

37 degrees and about the same number of minutes provided a short running tour of a Spartanburg, SC neighborhood. Though I brought two pairs of gloves for the weekend getaway, I managed to take off into the predawn gloveless. The chill of the morning air didn’t prove to be a deal breaker. It did, however, encourage me to keep up the pace to generate body heat. After a fast and enjoyable run through subdivisions and over county roads it was time to see more of “Sparkleburg,” as a South Carolina native and friend of mine calls it. Shannan and I geared up and took to the streets of Hub City, yet another nickname.

Our day began with breakfast at The Beacon In, better known for onion rings and iced tea (they claim to be the world’s largest seller of iced tea) than biscuits and coffee. Nonetheless, we enjoyed our meal immensely, especially as our bacon and eggs were served with fresh peaches. Indulge me a short aside, South Carolina is truly the Peach State and not my hometown of GA. Even with wide use of the word peachtree, we are actually the nation's top producers of peanuts. Back to the trip: Our next stop was Cowpens Revolutionary War Battlefield and Visitors’ Center. It's free and highly informative. From there we browsed in a small Rail Road Museum. A train rolled through town to provide bit of excitement. We moved on to Spartanburg County Historical Museum. It is well laid out and provides a wealth of information into the past of this train hub city, but on this day the real focus was on food.

Shannan and I munched on cupcakes at Cakehead Bakery and perused a bookstore which shares space with the bakery and a coffee shop in a repurposed Masonic Temple. After filling up on an old south style lunch at Wade’s, we split a hot fudge cake at Sugar-N-Spice Drive Inn. For dinner we stepped out for Redneck Burgers at Nu Way Lounge and Bar (which claims to oldest bar in the city). As you can tell, throughout the day we consumed high calorie, high fat, and high cholesterol foods with great joy. Our meager attempt to balance it out came in a one mile walk at Cowpens around the decisive positions of the historic battle of 1781 and another short trek through the wonderfully beautiful Hatcher Gardens and Nature Preserve. To add to our food fest we tried to purchase homemade pimento cheese, but the store closed early, for shame. Speaking of shame, we capped off the enigmatic food filled day with a trip the American Coliseum to watch American Pro Wrestling. This place and the fans have to be seen to be believed. It’s rich fodder for a separate blog.

See Spartanburg. Run. Eat. Enjoy.

Tom

Ashburn Again

How funny? I didn't take the time to check this very blog to review a previous run in Ashburn, GA. Early this morning when faced with the "left or right" decision I selected left. I usually follow the rule of mail carriers and make right turns. I assumed that would have been the case last time we visited Ashburn. Along the way I marveled at political signs, Halloween decor and wondered about local shops and businesses. About a mile and a half or so into the run I recognized a BBQ joint. Drats! This was the same route I had traveled during on the last trip.

Bear in mind, the outing had been very pleasing, both the breezy morning and the surroundings. Nonetheless, I crossed to a side street, in an effort to gain a new perspective, and headed back toward the hotel. I figured I'd explore a little ways in the opposite direction. This took me away from the rising sun. The overcast morning held a bluish black veil over the sky. The path narrowed to a country road between cotton fields with no street lights. I was running into the dark.

A small furry creature ran across my path, yet it was so dark I couldn't discern if it was a rabbit, possum, raccoon or what. By then nearly thirty minutes had elapsed and being a touch creped out by the inability to see, I thought to return. Unfortunately, Lynard Skynard's Freebird cued up on my mp3 player. I ran fast and up hill into the darkness for a while longer before spinning around to head back to the hotel. No regrets, it all worked out for the best. I had a strong run to begin the day, managed to see new parts of the city and Shannan got to sleep a little longer.

Off to Orlando to see the mouse and run.

Tom

Songs of the Season

A nice long run with freshly fallen leaves crunching under every step made clear the change of season. A few shocks of color remained in the trees. Early in autumn I am always reminded of an old song, Fall in Philadelphia, from Daryl Hall and John Oates. It's a mellow song on a little known album before the duo's rise to popularity. I mentioned the song in a piece about this same time last year. As I continued on this November run I began to think about songs that really remind me of particular times and seasons.

In the summertime
And oh the wonder
Felt the lightning
And we waited on the thunder
Waited on the thunder

Bob Seger’s Night Moves cued in my mind. I didn’t have the music. I played the song in my head, and best of all as I imaged the tune I traveled across time to the mid 1980s. I landed in Champagne, IL. This was my first trip out of the south, and wow what an eye opener. I arrived in the small college town late in the summer, right around Labor Day Weekend. I didn't have a plan or even a place to stay. Somehow things came together. I got caught up in the magic of the Night Moves, of being young and free and in being the novelty in town. "Speak in southern," my new found friends would say. I think it was particularly interesting to hear an accent like Andy Griffith coming from a fellow who looks like Juan Valdez. We all had a grand time making fun of the differences between southern city life and rural life in the north.

Fun and frolicking continued, however, my nemeses, cold weather, arrived sooner than I expected, so I headed home with a naïve fear of being trapped by Old Man Winter. For those who know the song well, yes there was a black haired beauty with big dark eyes. And no, we weren’t in love, oh no far from it. We were workin' on our Night Moves.

Ain't it funny how the night moves
When you just don't seem to have as much to lose
Strange how the night moves
With autumn closing in

Experience the seasons. Run.

Tom

Time to Exercise

Shannan summed up the way The Streak works for me. She tells others the way I come to exercise each day is by setting the time in my mind "when I will exercise?" It's not a matter of if I'll run, use a cardio machine or do a scripted work out; it is "when" will I exercise? She nailed it. In fact, when my schedule gets altered by things beyond my means of control, I get moody simply because I have not exercised.

It certainly helps to have that mindset and to have a time planned for some sort of aerobic or anaerobic activity. We are working on a trip to visit Australia. As we look at the terrific amount of time it takes to travel, that's my first question. When will I exercise? After 14 years I have the will, so we feel certain I'll find a way.

When will you exercise?

Tom

Slice of American Pie

Ain’t that America. Traveling the States always presents a distinct pleasure to experience local flare and regional culture, while maintaining some common American threads. This summer we intentionally set out to celebrate a nice slice of Americana. From Tennessee to Illinois, the Land of the Free, did not disappoint. Of particular note, we spent two nights in Keokuk, Iowa. I know what you are thinking, so let me explain. We landed in Keokuk based on lodging availability, a very fortunate turn of fate. From this base we explored southeast Iowa as well as Nauvoo and Carthage, Illinois.

Keokuk is a grand town filled with clean and proud neighborhoods and scads of history related to Civil War, Native American relations and more. We learned at the George M. Verity Museum that as many as three military ships carried the name, USS Keokuk. Water plays a major role for the area past and present. Our tremendous Mississippi River separates Iowa and Illinois. Like others, the small town of Keokuk, has attempted the harness the power of the majestic river for tourism and energy. The two converge at Lock and Dam # 19. Here there are observation decks to watch as barges make their way along the river.

Other than being a delightful stop on the historic Mississippi River Road, Keokuk is also part of the Mormon Trail. It was just across the water that the Saints departed Nauvoo on their final trek west toward the Utah territory. I’d be remiss not to mention the city’s namesake, Chief Keokuk. He was a leader of the Sauk Tribe. Keokuk didn’t radically oppose white settlers. This led to conflict with another Sauk leader, Black Hawk, and ultimately to war between the two. A statue of Keokuk stands proudly in Rand Park looking over the Mississippi River. In a short period of time we breezed through some of the town highlights. Here’s a link should you ever find yourself in this marvelous city: http://www.keokukiowatourism.org/

Now, about the run: On a clear and unusually warm morning I set out for a run to the Mississippi River. I passed a country club, folks out walking dogs, a fellow driving his tractor on the street and one the most interesting things I’ve ever encountered on the road--father and son joggers picking up trash as they ran. Their method may not be the norm, but Keokuk streets, sidewalks, homes and businesses all exhibited a high degree of community pride. It’s a clean and friendly place. Running by the river was grand, but I really enjoy puttering along in Keokuk. I just felt good.

Enjoy the United States. Run.

Tom

Alaska to Arrington

This summer Helen, Dave, Shannan and I had a lovely trip to Seattle followed by a cruise through the Inside Passage. However, along the way Helen began to feel notably ill. Upon our return home her health did not improve. We ultimately learned she had abdominal cancer.

With some regularity Shannan and I take a trip in the fall to Arrington, TN to be with our cousins. Whereas our summer family trip ended with traumatic news, this one brought great celebration. The week of our trip Helen's Pet Scan showed no sign of cancer.

Oh the joy! Thanks for your prayers and all of your support.

Tom and Shannan

Good Day Grotto

Another adventure with Joel made for yet another picture perfect day. As noted previously, we have tinkered with our original day-trip recipe. Joel is making better food choices and eating smaller portions, and our last few outing have not had a corporate exercise activity. Still our zeal to explore oddities works magic. Today, did not disappoint.

It started off with an early run and included the new addition to my cardio days, ten minutes of yoga. Shortly after 6:00 am Shannan and I took off toward northwest Georgia to pick up Joel. The two of us did stop for a coffee and fast food breakfast sandwich, a guilty pleasure. Once we picked up our partner for interesting excursions, we crossed into Alabama for a visit to Ave Maria Grotto.

The "Grotto" is a curious collection within St. Bernard's, a Benedictine Monastery and Catholic School. Nearly a hundred years ago, Brother Joseph Zoettl began a bizarre hobby to occupy his time as he worked in the coal furnace room. As he waited to work the coals he built miniatures of important religious structures. His collection grew and skill increased as did his fame. People began sending him scraps, treasures from all over the world. He used the particles to create little dioramas within canvasses, commonly known as grottos. The collection is astounding, it includes the mountain monastery of Montserrat, the Vatican, an incredible representation of the Virgin Mary and much more. It's well worth the trip to see.

While in this region of Alabama we made a quick to stop at Noccalula Falls to tour pioneer homes and buildings from late 1800, view an eclectic collection of animals and snap a few photos of the scenic water falls. Along the way we saw a sign for The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Since it was on the way home or possibly to get me to stop begging, Joel and Shannan consented to a slight change of the planned agenda and to make an impromptu addition to the itinerary. This massive church complex is unbelievable and must be seen to be appreciated.

We lunched at Jefferson's in downtown Gadsden and wrapped up the day. Next time we'll drive south toward Elberton to get a close up view of Georgia's Guide Stones, often referred to as the Stonehenge of the South. Who knew?

Life is grand. Experience it. Share it with a friend.

Tom

fall lemonade

Most folks welcome cool fall temperatures as a break from Atlanta’s heat and humidity. Others celebrate with great joy the vivid colors marking the arrival of autumn. Most of my friends and family equally love both parts of the seasonal change, and they know I don't share their bliss related to the weather. I understand and deeply appreciate the distinct seasons we experience in North Georgia. It stops there.

As fall signals a period of lower temperatures I attempt to look for something good in the change. It’s not really a difficult task. Even I have to admit cooler weather allows for comfortable long runs and easier recovery from speed workouts. One can't go wrong there. Best of all from late September forward wonderful fall festivals take place all over the region.

Make fall lemonade. Bring on good runs and good times.

Tom

Predisposed to The Streak

During a recent 20 year reunion I set out for a run in Decatur, GA. I spent a terrific amount of time in this area from the early 80s forward. It was in Decatur where my friend Bill and I first decided to train for the Peachtree 10K Road Race. In 1989, we ran five miles and thought we surely would die. I'm not positive we really believed we could add another 1.2 to go the distance of a 10K during the middle of the Atlanta summer. Together we managed to make it and have run many miles since.

I haven't seen Bill in a number of years. He was one of the first people I knew who was truly committed to fitness. He worked out at the YMCA several times a week and had the physique to suggest he worked out hard. As I retraced our steps on this nostalgic run I wondered if Bill remains committed to good health. My bet is, yes. I pondered if people who knew me twenty years ago would believe I'm a person obsessed with exercise and meal choices. As I fully thought out my question I decided my 14 year exercise Streak may not come as a shock to many.

I have a tendency toward this sort of thing. For example, I had perfect attendance in school all the way through 6th grade until I had to have hip surgery. The same hospitalization broke my streak of attending church every Sunday. I went on to have perfect attendance the first two years of high school, all of college and perfect attendance at church as a young adult when I change denominations. I have been at the same job for 11 years and have only missed work for two funerals, never a sick or personal day.

Some thing is wrong with me. Very, very wrong :-)

Tom

Salsabil

Most know fitness is not the driving force of my exercise Streak. Make no mistake, I love being physically fit, however vanity is not the engine that powers my daily work outs. Disease runs rampant in my family. Paternal and maternal members have and do suffer from heartdisease, diabetes and cancer. This more than anything motivates me to work hard everyday to stave off the demons of health, which can lead to misery and an untimely death.

Salsabil is an Arabic word I like. It means somethng akin to spring or river of life. End the trend and seek a way to the spring of life, a healthy body.

Eat well. Exercise. Live life.

Tom

The Good Old Days

An hour of nostalgic exercise made me very happy. On a reunion weekend in Decatur, GA I ran routes new and old across the first hour of morning light. This is the city where I first went out for street runs. Prior to that I had only been jogging on the high school track in Clarkston. Interestingly, lots of places, roads, and buildings had undergone some sort of change, closed or were simply gone. Overall the area had improved since I used to frequent it. Yes, my stroll down memory lane was not exactly the same. Who really expects that after 20 years? I found delight in the time I had spent there previously and in the moment. With regard to the changes, I, too, have changed over all this time. I hope my change have been mostly good as well.

Run and remember.

Tom

Kind and Generous

You've been so kind and generous
I don't know how you keep on giving
For your kindness I'm in debt to you
For your selflessness my admiration
For everything you've done you know
I'm bound to thank you for it

The above lyrics come from Natalie Merchant’s song Kind and Generous. My ego never prevents me from admitting someone else can say things better than I can. Shannan and I participated in the Win the Fight Against Cancer 5K to raise money for the Winship Cancer Center. Thanks to many of you we doubled our goal and raised $1000. For that, I am deeply grateful.

Shannan’s mother, Helen, receives treatment at Winship and that led the way for us to get involved. It was a beautiful morning for a road race. The course took runners through Emory’s campus and lovely Druid Hills neighborhoods. I hadn’t planned on running as well as I did that morning, nor did I plan on the wave of emotions I experienced.

Like Shannan, I was basically raised on the Emory Campus. That place has greatly formed the man I am today. I probably never would have stepped foot on the campus had it not been for Jackie, my mother. She worked in the Anatomy Department of Emory's medical school most of my life. It was her employment that made it possible for me to attend Emory. It was also at Emory where she, too, received treatment for cancer. This weighed heavy on my mind as I ran. I ran faster than I have in years.

As I reflect on that day and Ms. Merchant’s lyrics I’m humbled. As beautiful and powerful as her words are, I don’t know if even they can get at my sense of gratitude for my mother, the life that she made possible for me, for the opportunity to take part in the Winship 5K, for Helen and for all the wonderful people committed to standing up and standing together against cancer.

Life is good. The human race is better.

Thank you.

Tom

Schedule Struggle

In the past year and a half I have completed several fitness programs that ranged from four weeks to 90 days. Currently, I'm in the midst of a 3 month hybrid of P90X and P90X Plus 90 workout routine. Just like every other program, as I reach the midway point I find myself weary of the same old thing. In an effort to keep it fresh I use the "stretch" and "rest" days to run or do other cardio activities. It's not boredom with the routine, there's something that I can't name that stalls me.


This time, like the others, I feel good and am making notable progress toward my goals. It' just like I feel blah. Not only am I having trouble articulating what plagues me, I can't get excited about today's workout. I'm sure this too shall pass. I wish I had some idea what causes this period of melancholy. I have ordered P90X2, which I expect to arrive around the end of the year. Maybe by then, I can complete a 90 day set without getting bogged down around day 40.


Be it scheduled or spontaneous, exercise for life.


Tom

Frogtown Challenge Trail Race

What a blast! Watching the sun rise over a mountain on the Garmin farm brought a smile to all who took in the sublime vision. A slight chill in the air burned off with the morning light. Eight hundred zany runners had gathered on a Forsyth County farm for a wacky trail run. Thick grass covered in dew soaked our shoes and socks. It was good to get that over since we all knew this race would take us in and through creeks and streams soon enough.

Lee and I chatted for a bit prior to the race. It was a low anxiety atmosphere. We parted ways as the four mile race prepared to start. Lee stayed firm to his resolve to run the ten miler, which included nearly a mile of running in the water. Following the gun of my race a short lap around an open field sent us into the first of several creek crossings that only gazelles could leap over. Wet feet couldn't dampen the mood. The farm was gorgeous. Once in the wooded trails the race delivered what it promised: rocks, twists, low hanging limbs, sharp turns, ravines, roots, and a horrifically steep incline up the mountain. My personal favorite was one section of stream where runners had the options of crossing on a log, plunging in the water or using a rope swing to get halfway across. I went for the rope and delighted in frolicking in the cold water like a little kid.

There was a rope wall near the end, where I sustained minor injuries. However, nature provided the most intense obstacles in the form of many fallen trees, and have I mentioned the grueling ascent up the mountain side? Race planners did a fantastic job with this one. The trail was clearly marked and the event was well organized. In my opinion, Frogtown ranks as one of the best races on the Atlanta circuit. Lots of people camped on site the night before the race. I counted more than 30 tents. Shannan and I agree that will be our plan for next year. I'm not sure about camping, but I know Lee enjoyed the race immensely as well and has it on his calendar for 2012.

For more information, pictures and video clips follow this link: http://www.christianrunners.org/frogtown/

Have fun. Run.

Tom

Men of a Certain Age

Aging. I for one tend to celebrate aging. As a powerful force of nature the process cannot be stopped. Mentally we don't have to let that reality leave us dejected. I gave in to the struggle long ago with my receding hair line by shaving my head weekly. Most recently I stopped ignoring difficulty in reading written text and procured reading glasses. Now, like many others my struggle has changed to keeping up with the darn things.


I recently received word that a life long friend needs hip replacement. Immediately that seemed terribly out of place. This guy is my age. We aren't old enough for a hip replacement. Are we? I really felt shock and said those very words out loud. The real humor is that I had the ball joint of my left hip slip out of place when I was twelve (12) years old. In a course of six months I had four steel pins placed in both of my hips.


They remained in place for five years. I rarely think of that, as you can tell from my initial reaction to my friend's impending surgery. Thankfully, my procedure has didn't leave any negative affects as I exercise daily. My hips take on a lot of the work, and don't complain in the least. I guess that is the good news. Orthopedic surgeons did a wonderful job on my hips over thirty years ago. Technological advances since then boggle the mind. I'm sure my pal will come out better than ever.


Strong hips to get us through the other obstacles of aging. Take care of them. Exercise.


Tom

Frogtown Trail Challenge

This weekend Lee and I will test our strength, endurance and sanity in the Frogtown Trail Challenge. I’m going for the four mile adventure. Lee signed up for the 10 miler. The track is self described as, “ditch jumping, log hopping, creek crossing, stream running, mountain climbing, branch dodging, trail trudging, mud meddling...absolute trail challenge!” As I understand both routes will encounter a rope wall at some point. Good times! This weekend Lee and I will test our strength, endurance and sanity in the Frogtown Trail Challenge. I’m going for the four mile adventure. Lee signed up for the 10 miler. The track is self described as, “ditch jumping, log hopping, creek crossing, stream running, mountain climbing, branch dodging, trail trudging, mud meddling...absolute trail challenge!” As I understand both routes will encounter a rope wall at some point. Good times!

Hopefully, when it’s all over Lee and I will be in good spirits and good health. Adventure racing is a bit silly as I think about it. Too late to be cautious, we’ve already paid. I passed on a half marathon on a mountain trail earlier this year. There’s no way I throwing more money away.

Run wild.

Run for a Reason

Long ago, kindhearted, intelligent folks figured out the concept of organizing road races to raise money for good causes. Like so many of you I have participated in several of them. I broach the topic today as unfortunately, cancer has stuck in our family, again. Shannan’s mother, Helen, was diagnosed with lymphoma about a couple of months ago.

Helen has family and friends rallying around her in many ways. Folks are praying, visiting, sending cards, messages and food. It’s powerful to see how people love and care for one another. We’ve plugged in as well where possible. Of Shannan would swim the English Channel if that would help. In situations like these we all want to want to find meaningful ways to do something.

 As it turns out, the Cancer Treatment center at Emory where Helen is receiving her medial care is holding a Winship Win the Race 5K October 15th. This provides the perfect place for me to plug in and do something. I’m not the best fundraiser, but I can run. I can fun for miles just for the heck of it. I can run for hours with a cause.

 I invite you to join team Ford LaPorte October 15 as we set out to Win the Race against cancer. Shannan will be walking and I will be running. If you can’t make it to the event, I hope you will contribute to the cause and support continued research toward the prevention and treatment of all types of cancer

 Run in honor of someone. Run in memory of someone. Run!

Tom

Big Money Branson

Branson, Missouri lays claim to being the family friendly version of Las Vegas . Barring a few thousand flashing lights Branson certainly holds show town appeal, replete with slow moving traffic on the main strip in the evenings.  Shannan and I found Branson to be a welcoming city. We enjoyed a nice meal at the Fish House on the White River before watching The Shepherd of the Hills, an outdoor play.

The next day I had a fantastic run there along the White River and across Roark Creek.  Mist rose off the water in the early morning of the entertainment town. In my short run I encountered dog walkers, other runners and a couple of fishermen, all of which seemingly appeared out of nowhere as I ran engulfed in the fog at the edge of the water.  Otherwise the only other companions were a handful of waterfowl, which beautified the morning.

I’ve been running in Gatlinburg, Las Vegas and now Branson. I guess I lack Reno and Atlantic City in terms of American Tinsel Towns. I’ve added them to the ever growing list of places to see and to enjoy a run. On a final note, I must admit I’m particularly fond of the Branson run as on the final stretch back to the hotel I found a twenty dollar bill. I’ve found money on many runs, but never a twenty. How nice!

Go to Branson. See a show. Run.

Tom

Tennessee Treasure

Rhodes College sits in midtown Memphis, TN. Some of the school’s leaders fondly describe the its strategic location as a true reflection of urban life. Rhodes borders reflect wide diversity within close quarters. The Memphis Zoo occupies one side and the other three quadrants include neighborhoods with distinct social and economic classes. I found this interesting and set out to jog around the campus to get a better sense of it.

Morning arrived and I began the journey. I had only completed one length of the perimeter when distraction happened. I noticed a narrow tree lined path. I scooted over for a closer look and discovered the Vollintine-Evergreen Community Park and Greenline. How could I resist? I changed course from sidewalk to pea gravel and explored.

I found the Greenline not to be a community park in the standard sense.  Tucked behind houses the path stretches through the city on a former railroad line. The park provides a community path for walking, jogging and unique uses of green space. Along the way I saw a community flower garden as well as one with vegetables. In some areas chairs and benches sat out in the shade of mature trees. Interesting and somewhat odd sculptures of human like figures with plant holders decorated one end of the Greenline.

An information box provided a pamphlet where I learned the Greenline is community owned and maintained. It spans just shy of 2 miles.  After a delightful spin on the Greenline, I finished the lap around Rhodes. The distinctions are not as immediately notable as suggested. Nonetheless, the perimeter loop did make for a nice run, but the Greenline stole the show and gave a wonderful start to the day.

Run. Explore.

Tom

Vitamins, Sunshine and Exercise

While Shannan shops I'm sitting out in a beautiful sun filled morning. We've been on the go for hours and I've yet to exercise. I need to decide what method to employ. Options abound. A recent psychical exam returned glowing results, largely thanks to regular exercise. So, of course I’m feeling good about the role of exercise in my life and life in general.

Vitamin D stood alone as the one area lacking in my overall well being. The doctor suggested taking an over the counter supplement of 2000 units each day. Wow, a pill! How about that?! I take a multivitamin and that's all I'm interested in consuming. Shannan says many doctors are noting vitamin D as a shortage these days. Hmmm.... I think I'll hang around out here in the sun and get some vitamin D the old fashion way.

Get your daily vitamin intake. Eat fruits and vegetables and enjoy the outdoors.

Tom

Eating and Excercise Evolution

Many people exercise to change their body. Most of them anxiously await a moment when they can see the change, either on the scale or by the way clothing fits. It’s a grand thing for sure. Exercise can work on you in many other ways. I have yet to meet the person who doesn’t laud the psychological benefits of exercise. A nice run or workout may not take away the problems from life, but it certainly helps lower the stress. Of course exercise has positive ripple effects on blood pressure, weight control and other anatomical benefits as well.

Health and exercise seem to make perfect mates. I began exercising to lose weight. I found that if I exercised every day I could basically eat and drink whatever I liked. I lived that style for a while. Over time I gradually moved toward moderation and then to more health conscious food decisions. The same holds true for exercise. As overall fitness becomes more and more a factor in my life, I have added more to the routine than just running. Making the effort to cross train has led to new and different changes in my body. At my age being toner and leaner is sort of nice.

As related to meals the evolution has not been terribly drastic. We aren’t gluten free, vegans or the like, but we have certainly found ourselves eating less red meat and more interested in organic foods and locally grown vegetables. I would have never guessed any of this; much less that we’d take up composting and gardening. Fourteen years changes a person. I can’t begin to imagine what the next fourteen will bring.

Change your choices. Live well.

Tom

Labor Day

Nothing kick starts a day like an early morning run. I never regret it. That remained the case Saturday of the Labor Day weekend. Following the run I did ten minutes of stretching, a new addition. The rest of the day fit our normal highly active pattern. Shannan and I drove to Newnan for the Powers Crossroads Festival. We stopped at some garage sales afterwards, and then cruised to Decatur for their Book Festival. Giving in to growling stomachs we dipped in the Emory Village for a nostalgic lunch at Everybody’s Pizza. Finally we brought the day to an end with a visit to Dixie Speedway for a night of stock car racing.

A great day that all started with a nice run. I know it seems overly busy, but it was all a “labor” of love from run to race.

Get up. Run. Get out.

Tom

September 11

Ten years ago Shannan and I had plans to spend the weekend camping at Stone Mountain Park. This marked the third year I had given lip service to running in the Atlanta Track Club’s Grand Prix series of eighteen plus races throughout the year. The five/ten mile Singleton races at Dekalb County’s Big Rock marked the kickoff event. I figured if we camped out there I’d have no excuse to avoid running the race.

Then the Tuesday of that week etched itself firmly into world history and American memory. It was September 11, 2001. You know the rest of the story. Like other people in the country we took pause in our activities both for safety and out of respect. The Atlanta Track Club updated their phone message (yes, there was a time before Twitter and Facebook, when we had to give a little effort to get information). They planned to continue as planned with the race and not to cave into terrorism. We followed suit.

A small band of folks camped out that weekend. Each site was given an American Flag. All the runners who arrived Saturday morning were given a red, white and blue ribbon to wear, and we did proudly. Though small in numbers, we were strong in spirit. I think people ran that day for more than personal records or to participate in the series. I know I did.

Here we are ten years later. Shannan and I plan to mark the day by going to support friends and students in the Iron Kids triathlon. We celebrate this fine country where such events exist, as well as the spirit of healthy competition and young people getting out and being active, especially on a day like this one.

Running won’t stop terrorism, but make no mistake, terrorism will not stop running.

Run and Remember.

Tom

Inside the Asylum

Unbelievable! Watching the exercises in the Asylum workouts is an insane endeavor itself. Of course on a rational level the psyche knows Shaun T. and his cast of fitness fanatics perform like machines on an exemplar level. One part of my brain says, “I want to do that.” While the other side complains, “Those moves are impossible. You’ll get hurt if you try.” I don’t recommend previewing these DVDs. Just press “play” and go to work.

Once in the process of doing the workouts an epic battle takes place between the mind and body. Some how, some way you can get through the routines and get better at them, although maybe not Shaun T. perfect, but get to the end nonetheless. Push. Dig deeper. Bring it! Tell yourself whatever is necessary to keep moving. In doing so, the oddest thing happens. You manage to finish the circuit. Even with a little mental and physical soreness here and there, you’ll feel great.

Go crazy. Exercise.

Tom

Running in Memphis

Rhodes College provided a beautiful landscape to accent a fabulously warm July morning. I wanted to run forever. Cursed schedules! The only bad part of the 100 acre campus at Rhodes is you can circle it twice in no time at all. As noted, I really wanted to use every possible moment to run before the day’s itinerary began.

Since I forgot to bring the handy electronic key necessary to enter and exit the campus, I moved on to the track to my own dismay. Like some others, I generally find running on a 440 track a touch monotonous. The beauty of the day and the surrounding campus prevailed. With a little attitude adjustment I used the track to my advantage. I did some striders (run at open speeds on the straight sides of the track) and other running workouts. I hadn’t used those routines in a while. It felt great and provided a solid exercise activity.

I followed the track time with one more loop around the campus and then off to my meetings.

Make meetings manageable. Run first.

Tom

Arkansas Officially

2007 marked the tenth anniversary of The Streak. Thanks to Shannan’s generous birthday gift, a day trip to Indiana, it also was the year I ran in my fiftieth state. At that time, some five or six of those consituted only a one mile run as we passed through or were close to a state line and made a quick in-and-out visit. This morning I had a really nice run in Little Rock, AR. Previously, Arkansas had been one of those bare minimum states. Now, Vermont stands as the remaining quickie state. I ran a little more than a mile in Brattleboro, VT. Oddly we have been to the same border city twice, but have never lodged in the Green Mountain state. Shannan has a plan to remedy that.

Along with the five mile run, our time in Arkansas proved lovely. We visited the presidential museum, dined in the River Market District, visited Sam Walton’s Five and Dime, the visitor’s center and unofficial birthplace of Walmart as well as the 100^th Walmart location in Bentonville. We delighted in a drive into the Ozark Mountains, saw the Peabody Duck March and more. It was a great trip and nice to make the run there a more meaningful one.

Travel. Run. Tour.

Tom

Cold Summers

“The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” It matters not to me whether Mark Twain actually said this or not. I’m fond of the line because I spent some time in California’s city by the bay in late June and felt like I had entered the twilight zone. I noticed many venders selling sweat shirts and jackets in the summer. It seemed odd, but in fact it was so chilly I purchased a fleece for the few days of our visit. I needed it for a cold and breezy morning run on the Golden Gate Bridge.

Shannan and I have been to Alaska twice in the summer when one might expect the temperatures to be cooler than Georgia. However, like my time in San Francisco, I found myself shocked during a July trip to Duluth, MN. I checked and the daily temperatures were actually colder than Alaska!

I don’t love the cold, but understand places and times to expect cooler temperatures. For me, summer ranks high among those times. That’s right, summer. It freaks people out when I carry a jacket and hat around with me in the south during the summer. Businesses and restaurants in states recognized for hot summers tend to blast air conditioning units to arctic temperatures from June through September.

As you might imagine, most people are glad I’m not in charge of the climate control at work or in the world.

Stay warm. Exercise.

Tom

Changes in Cruising

Though I've mentioned it all before, I find it worth restating. Cruise ships are most commonly known for the copious amounts of food available night and day. Don't assume it's an utter sloth's paradise. Physical activities abound, so much so it's easy to maintain or even loose weight while indulging in hedonistic consumption. I have done just that on eight separate occasions. Among the many options on board: one can walk, run, do yoga, take part in a spinning class or play games like basketball, ping pong or the cruise ship favorite, shuffle board. Surprisingly, this is not an exhaustive list. Of course different ships will tout differing options.

Shannan and I have enjoyed most all of the options aboard the various vessels we have sailed. I wrote the first piece of this journey about change. Times have changed indeed. I didn't run a mile on the boat and only little more than one in Juneau, AK. Just a year ago, the idea of using the gym treadmill seemed odious to me. I only ran on deck and couldn't rest until I ran in each port of call.

Unfortunately, on the boat impolite and discourteous walkers frequently clutter the VERY narrow jogging track for the view, rather than using the wide walking deck. The jogging lane has signs on the track and on the rails denoting "Joggers Only." Rather than complaining bitterly about the people who disregard signage and good manners, this time I decided to avoid frustration while on vacation. I didn't use the track at all. I must admit I appreciated not having the daily hassle.

Then there's the running in the port issue. Its always a problem of sorts. Shannan has to wait alone in strange places while I find somewhere to change, run and clean up afterward. Having run in the amazing state of Alaska before I chose to skip the traditional 1 miler at each stop. Another big hassle avoided. Writing about all these changes makes me realize I'm getting old.

Embrace change. Exercise.

Tom

The road previously traveled

Clouds and the sun played a fantastic trick. It looked like a light emanated from the bottom of the sea illuminating the coastline of this the marvelous Alaskan morning. I went out early to enjoy the scenery before exercising. I took time to reflect on life since the last time I visited America's Last Frontier. At my age too many people mark time by the lines on their faces or the dreams lost when life got in the way.

Like others, I have dreams not yet achieved, but I'm much more interested in the ones that ten or twenty years ago had not yet been perceived. No one, including me would have guessed travel, running and general health concerns would rule my life as they do. Previous trips to the west carved meaningful marks in time for me. This morning I looked back at the profound and extraordinarily positive impact those visits had on my life.

Our current trip began in Seattle. Truthfully, I don't know how it came to us, but over ten years ago Shannan and I read a very short self-motivational book, FISH!. It centers around the World Famous Pike Place Fish Market. The book promotes a simple four step concept. Reading the book didn't change my world view, but it certainly was the impetus for me to change my behavior on a daily basis. Looking back I recognize the change as one of the most important ones I made as an adult. After reading FISH! we went out to Seattle and saw the fish mongers in action. Ten years later we returned, and along with a crowd of others, came to experience the FISH motivational magic. It was nice to think back over time and how well the premise of the book works. Read it!

Now, back to Alaska. It's one of those places in and of itself that can have a powerful effect on the human spirit. Many people come here and never go home. I understand how that happens, but the cold is a deal breaker for me. Previously, I posted a piece about my experience with Mount Marathon in Seward, AK and its force in my life.

Generally, when presented with the option I like to run on unmarked trails. This trip has started as a nice reminder of the road previously traveled. Today, I saw this quote on a card in Juneau, "All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware."

Regardless of the road, stay on the move.

Tom

Multitasking

Too much to do and too little time. Most would probably vote that saying as an American mantra. It was Shannan’s actual birthday (using the word “actual” is necessary as Shannan’s birthday takes on a season) and I had a mountain of tasks to complete. Seeking the highest and best use of time I decided exercising had to take on the form of multi-tasking. This meant using the elliptical in order for me to complete my daily readings at the same time. I set the program for “fat burn” and cranked out thirty minutes. That helped me to check off three of my seven daily tasks- exercise, reading and reading the Bible).

Here I am again. Shannan’s birthday came and went and as always, it was a blast. Now it’s the following day. Once again, I have a ton to do and the clock’s ticking away. So at stop lights I’m re-working this piece for the blog. Yes, I know it’s reckless and dangerous, so I’ll end here. Too bad there’s now way to write while running.

Exercise. Get things done.

Tom

Freedom Run

I complain, perhaps too bitterly, about the face of the nation morphing into one big strip plaza void of local character. Ah the joys of being wrong.  A visit to Jackson, MS kept hope alive. Surrounding neighborhoods of Jackson State University pose an intriguing exception. Many of the well-known social ills plague this area. Yet, it marches forward like so many women and men of the past did in this very city seeking full fledge freedom.  Civil rights markers dot Jackson’s roadways, demarcate empty lots and identify buildings keeping the present mindful of a movement of the past that paved the way of progress.

Here’s an interesting tidbit. Mississippi, a state notorious for brutal and horrific lynching, has a main thoroughfare in its capital city named for John Roy Lynch. As I ran along “Lynch Street”, a road filled with civil rights history, it seemed oddly morbid that in honoring a former political leader the street also stands as a reminder of some of the worst atrocities on American soil.

Nearing the end of the outing Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run cued on my MP3 player as I re-entered the campus. How could stop running or thinking about liberty with this song playing? I didn’t. Instead I increased the volume and had a strong finish to the morning run. I couldn’t help but to reflect on the appropriateness of the song, for this time, for this place, for me. I thought about physical and intellectual health, the tremendous opportunity to be in civil rights town on an academic fellowship and all that as a man of color who grew up in poverty on par with the area around Jackson State University.

Run for Freedom.

Tom

Travel Trumps Terrorism

I have written two previous pieces for this blog noting my enthusiasm and appreciation for running in Marrakesh, Morocco. I have never brought up political issues in these blogs. Intrinsically, politics are tied to this one. I'll try to tread lightly. April 3, Shannan and I joined another couple for a long leisurely lunch on the terrace of the Argana restaurant in the main square of Marrakesh. The café came highly recommended by tour guides and hotel staff for first time visitors. And so it should. The food was great and the view was astounding. The upstairs terrace looks over the Djemma el-Fna Square, one of the most culturally rich and fascinating places on earth, home to indigenous dancers, snake charmers, henna painters, souvenir vendors and more.

During lunch service April 28 a bag exploded in the very same popular tourist destination killing fourteen people and injuring more than twenty others. News of the explosion left us unsettled mentally, psychologically and spiritually. I truly felt sick to my stomach as the reality of the event became clear, the act of violence, terrorism, loss of life, the whole thing. Something awful had happened in one little corner of the world in a far away place. We had been there. It could have easily been us. We had been to Egypt, but long before and the riots there. Make no mistake, the recent North African revolts gave pause to our friends and family as we traveled to Morocco. We assured them no indication of such a thing existed that far west.

I am so grateful to have experienced Marrakesh and would happily go back in a minute. Shannan and I will not be imprisoned by terrorists. We will continue to travel. We’ll have long leisurely lunches. I’ll run on dark streets.

Life is precious. Live it.

Tom

High Altitude in the High Atlas Mountains

In a very puerile manner personal satisfaction washed over me as it only took a couple of minutes to adjust my breathing when running in the altitude of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. However, the winding roads, sans sidewalks, offered no cause for celebration. I scurried through a small village in the blink of an eye. Unlike its not so distant neighbor of Marrakech, mornings in Ourigane were calm and near silent.

Hemmed in by towering mountains, some snow capped, I enjoyed the surrounding beauty and mindfully took in as much as possible. Seeing a beautiful orange groove, I turned off the narrow road only to quickly learn I had ventured on to private property. Working double time I returned to the street. Few vehicles passed, but the ones that did blazed by at high speeds. Around another mile or so I tried my luck again and veered into an evergreen tree grove.

My luck paid out, Las Vegas style. The trees were fragrant and striking. The path provided some safety from the cars barreling along the tiny road, which I’m sure seldom has joggers at the first light of day. Down a ways a nice stream provided a natural border between the trees and a farm. The property held a small Berber house. I mused at how people accessed the home as no road, paved or otherwise, led to it. I let that thought linger as I turned back toward the hotel to prepare for a day of hiking and local expedition.

Tread new trails without trespassing.

Tom

Road Warriors

Greetings! Several weeks ago I posted a piece celebrating the beginning of summer. Even with a severe cut to my finger I had a great summer of exercise, but an even better summer of travel. I admit, I'm not a fan of road trips, but with Shannan's help I pulled it together and enjoyed the highways through the heartland of this fine country.

Thankfully, our first trip did not include air travel, as we went to Seattle prior to a cruise through the sublime Inside Passage. After that we began our efforts in earnest to be bona fide road warriors. Shannan really wins the award. She drove me to Mississippi to participate in research with a National Endowment for the Humanities program. She then drove on to Pensacola, FL, from there to Clearwater Beach, back to Atlanta and met me a week later in Memphis, TN. Hands down, Shannan's the Queen of the road.

Once reunited, we traveled to Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky and back through Tennessee. On this whirlwind trip I ran along a couple of America's great rivers, through severely economically depressed neighborhoods and passed well-to-do country clubs. I cruised over sidewalks, trails, bridges and parking lots. I ran amid corn fields and on a college track. The runs were as different and exciting as each destination. I think I look forward to exploratory runs as much as visiting landmarks, museums and new places.

Run for a great view of the world around you.

Tom

All Hail Mother Nature

Last year I wrote about an amazing moment between the sun and moon on the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona. I referred to it as, "being in the middle of something beautiful." Today, I worked out while sailing on the Straight of Georgia in the middle of the Inside Passage in route to the great state of Alaska.

Dolphins splashed while Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock-covered mountains posed with their very best snow-topped peaks. Life in its various forms framed my field of vision. What a treat! One thing I have learned from traveling is to never say, "It doesn't get better than this." Mother Nature has a bounty beyond my imagination. I have also learned to acknowledge and appreciate all she has to offer. Today marked one of those times.

Thank goodness.   

Tom

Enter the Asylum

I gave in to market hype and pre-ordered Shaun T’s much anticipated follow up to Insanity, Asylum. Based on prior experience, I thought it wise to preview the workout routines before diving in whole hog. Okay, I’m not sure that was the best plan. I couldn’t resist temptation and tried to follow along. Another mistake. Without question this program is geared toward physically fit people, but to do these exercises a person must also be mentally twisted. Shaun T. and company named the program appropriately.

Over the forty-five minutes of very hard work I had flashbacks to day one of Insanity when I laid on the floor breathless and in a pool of sweat. The first disc of Asylum, Speed and Agility, is a nonstop cardio and plyo workout filled with plank and core moves. The overall program mercifully only lasts 30 days, though I did notice on the packaging the program is entitled, Asylum VOLUME 1. I can’t decide if I want to follow the sequence or to do a P90X hybrid. I’ll keep you posted.

Be insane. Workout.

Tom

Saturday in Seattle

A surprise to no one, I awoke to rain early Saturday morning in Seattle. Having run previously in the west coast's city of computers, coffee and contrasts, I decided to make use of the hotel fitness center rather than getting drenched to begin the day. Nicely equipped, the gym included a sauna and hot tub for post workout relief. Out of nowhere, and on an absolute whim, I opted to deal with wet shoes. As if on a mission, I headed out into the unseasonably cool downpour.

The one thing that eased my mind regarding this impulsive choice was Seattle’s clear layout of city streets. Feeling secure about not getting lost, I weaved in and out, reacquainting myself with downtown. I managed a “best of tour” by taking a turn past Seattle's most famous landmarks: the Sky Needle, Pike Place Market, magnificent water features along Elliott Bay and out along the boardwalks of the piers. Even with fog and low clouds the waterfront exercised her abiding majestic power.

Once back to the hotel, rain-soaked and chilly (the whole whim thing didn't include going back to the room for a hat and gloves before running), I made use of the fitness center facilities and enjoyed a short dip in the hot tub.

Follow a whim. Run.

Tom

Running with Deer

Oh, the joys of summer time. I knew I wanted to wait until around noon to run. Most of you know I love the heat. After much deliberation, I decided to go for a run in a neighboring subdivision. The Homeowners Association there maintains a terrific wooded nature trail along creeks and a river. I hadn't been there in some time.

As I crested the first hill I saw a deer nibbling in an overgrown field. I slowed down and resolved to change directions so as not to disturb her. In the process, I made enough noise that three other deer poked their heads up from the grassy knoll. What a lovely sight! Regrettably, I scared them and the foursome galloped off into the safety of the woods.

 Like many other areas in our county, subdivisions continue to be developed. As a result, my running routes keep getting altered, more often than not in a negative manner. I mentioned to a friend who recently bought a home that I used to run on the trails and by the lake of that property before it was purchased and cleared for new homes. She said, "You're like the deer. You keep getting pushed out."

I have thought about that a lot. It's so true, but I can run anywhere. My furry four-legged friends are losing food and housing.

Run in harmony.

Tom

My First Rodeo

I’ve run all over the great state of Georgia. Taking to the streets with the rising sun in Swainsboro, GA, shouldn’t therefore have seemed too shocking. For the most part, things appeared the same as most. I breezed passed the main high school, through a retail area--okay this was somewhat different as 85% of the businesses were local non-chain shops and restaurants--and even spent some time in a local park. Swainsboro’s Kiwanis Park holds four lakes, one of which housed a stately couple of geese and four extremely cute goslings. Mist rose off the water and the day’s first light streamed through like teleporters from a Sci-Fi movie.

Back on the road, I enjoyed the local sights. Outside of the Moose Lodge a well-used marquee advertised for two bands scheduled to play over the weekend. I don’t even know where a Moose Lodge is in my neck of the woods. I knew I had escaped the metropolitan area when I read another sign. “May 14. Fairgrounds. Wrestling. Pine Cone Match.” Pine cone match?  Google didn't have returns for that.

Swainsboro provided a fun and terribly interesting run. With little less than four hours in the car, we had entered a world very different from our own. Truthfully, I'd been feeling it since we arrived the night before and attended our first rodeo. Wow, what a treat! Riding, roping, racing, and showcasing a very specific set of skills, these cowgirls and cowboys ruled the night. I quickly came to appreciate the rodeo as a magnificent tradition and cultural heritage that is kept alive by the young people we watched. But, still I wonder, what is a pine cone match?

Run. Ride! Wrestle?

Tom

Dry River Run

Never is a mighty long time. I feel certain that as long as I am able to run I'll never tire of running in the desert. This morning, waiting proved to be the hardest part. I sat around the hotel room delaying my run long enough to ensure I'd be out on the road when the sun took main stage in the day. Waiting didn't disappoint.

I lumbered down Speedway Blvd past the Pima Community College Downtown Campus. My agenda was to watch the sun crest over the mountain chain. What a remarkable sight that inspires me each and every time! After that I simply enjoyed the invigorating desert air. To my delight a bike/running path crossed Speedway Blvd. I eagerly joined it and cut through the Santa Cruz River Park. The path moved along the river, however at this time and season, no water flowed between its banks.

I let my imagination run as fast as my legs. I considered a roaring river being fed by the washes. I thought of stories, songs and poems rooted in rivers rushing, gently flowing, or like this one, rivers that run dry. I couldn't contain myself any longer. I hopped the guardrail and shimmied down the steep riverbank. I ran right through the middle of the river. What fun!

When it was time to return I looked for the least severe slope to get back up to the paved trail. Not many encouraging options presented themselves, so I just plowed right up the wall. Slipping and sliding, I dug my fingers, toes and knees into the loose dirt and rock and clawed my way to the top. I managed it with a minimal amount of bleeding.

For a place many see as a barren wasteland, I see the desert as one of nature's best places to run.     

Tom

Farm for Fitness

What a joy to watch plants springing forth from the ground. The wonder grows as blossoms begin to open and bring beauty as well as life. The very best comes when fruit and veggies emerge. Shannan and I have enjoyed our table garden immensely.

It's only been a short number of years in history where humans expend only a limited amount of energy to get food. From antiquity until the last century, people hunted and/or farmed in order to eat. Now we spend virtually zero calories to consume mountains of food. Conversely, we spend enormous amounts of time and energy to engage in exercise for our health and fitness.

Exercising and working the Earth intermingle in perfect harmony. This spring I worked hard tilling the ground and setting the first seeds and plants. Now, the workload has lightened significantly. Each day I weed, trim, harvest and water. The current workload is not as labor or time intensive, but work nonetheless. Truthfully, it's a bunch of fun, which is evident when an hour passes so terribly quickly.

 Farm for fitness,

 Tom

Plethora of Parks

After a lesson on National Parks, elementary students engaged in conversations about ecosystems, camping, how yucky it is to clean a fish, and all the fun of hiking, swimming and other forms of recreation. I shared photos and stories with the class from the many parks Shannan and I have visited to help stir the excitement about taking advantage of our incredible local and national recreation areas.

I managed to refrain from talking about the all the interesting and varied runs I’ve had in parks across this wonderful land. It was harder than you think to stay on topic. In fact, I wrote this piece during my break just to get it out of my system. As you might imagine, we’re big fans of parks, particularly local ones where Shannan and I enjoy regular strolls.

Go play in a park. They’re not just for kids.

Tom

Waiting is hard, but not always the hardest part

Waiting. Not many people like waiting. In the waiting room of the local urgent care center I longed to think of anything other than my aching and bleeding finger. I had nearly cut my fingertip off more than an hour previously. While waiting, I didn't want to think about the drive to get medical attention when my truck broke down and I had to walk the rest of the way (only a half a mile or so, but with the frustration of my sliced digit and distress of unknown trouble with my beloved vehicle, the walk got to me with each step).

Nervously waiting, I mentally recounted trips to the doctor or hospital throughout my life. I'm very fortunate. I have not had much in the way of injury or illness. On further review, I found this may well be my first non-sports or exercise related injury, ever. The realization didn't lessen the pain or mental anguish of having cut myself.

I write this some days later. The effects of the injury are tiresome. I don't have any pain really. Problems stem from daily routines. It's very difficult to do much in the garden, or housework. And exercise, well there's a story unto its own. I was in the final stretch of the Asylum/P90X Hybrid program. Though I wanted very badly to continue, I opted for a less strenuous exercise plan until the finger heals. Truthfully, on the day of the injury I came close to tears. I had just gotten into the grove of the hybrid program and was seeing grand results.

I'll keep the complaining to a minimum. I'm well aware it could have been much worse. Best of all and most mercifully, the waiting is long over.

Tom

Book Learning

A time long ago, in a time before the Internet, people read books. Tangible paper pages bound together reigned as the primary and most highly respected medium for the transfer of information. People read about health and exercise rather than watching You Tube clips. Odd as it may sound, countless numbers of people learned workout routines from text, not videos. This took place long before Jack Lalanne broke ground with televised exercise segments. I’m sort of enjoying making fun of myself here.

Today I had a phenomenal workout. The regimen I used came from Tony Horton's book, Bring It! I copied his Warrior Cardio and Resistance Phase One program on a whiteboard in my exercise room. Previously I had studied the pictures of the moves in the book and even practiced many of them. Still, the idea of working out while referring to a book between sets seemed silly and tedious to me.

I finally gave it a shot and am I glad I did! It's a super workout. Sure, it takes discipline to keep moving and to stay motivated, but I found a great burn by the end. I immediately decided to write a blog about working out from a book. I laughed at myself for acting like the concept was a novelty, as if we have always had personal trainers on a screen coaching us.

Read and exercise.

Tom

Augusta, Bobby Jones, Kevin Bacon, Winston Churchill and Running

Most notably recognized for hosting The Masters Golf Tournament, Augusta, Georgia, has a lot more to offer than golf. Along with a top rate medical community, fantastic historical relevance in the south and tons of trendy shops and restaurants, the city has carved out fantastic running, walking and biking trails. By pure chance, while we were there I ran along the hedges of the highly esteemed Augusta National Golf Course. This was exciting to me, as upon graduating college Shannan received a prestigious Bobby Jones Scholarship from Emory University, allowing her to live and study for a year at The University of St. Andrews in Scotland. That's my “Kevin Bacon degrees of separation” style connection.

Shannan remains very active in the Bobby Jones program and has served more than once on the selection committee. Still, she has never visited the famous course in Augusta. I'm no better. I've never played anything other than putt putt, or even watched a minute of live or televised golf. We have, however, seen several Bobby Jones exhibits at museums and golf clubs. Of course, the Augusta Museum of History has a standing golf exhibit, where I read the following quote from Sir Winston Churchill, "Golf is a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose."

Though not my sport, I recognize the place golf holds in the hearts of many around the world. If not on the renowned Augusta National Golf Course, there are lots of ways to enjoy an active day in Augusta.

Tom

Somewhere in Augusta

This year, Shannan's annual surprise trip took us to Augusta, GA. We dined at a posh new restaurant with one of Shannan's childhood friends and her husband when we arrived Friday evening. First thing Saturday I rolled out for a nice jaunt in a delightful residential area. Nature served up a picture perfect morning.

Once exercised, stretched, cleaned and breakfasted we headed out for a day of Augusta exploration. Destinations like Phinizy's Swamp, Barnyard flea market, the boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson and the Augusta Museum of History educated and entertained. Shannan and I altered the agenda a bit for a pass through the Saturday Market at the River Walk and lunch at Nacho Mama's downtown (a fine choice).

Over the years we've encountered a number of inconveniences in our travels, but this morning was a particularly odd one. The electronic lock on our hotel door broke and we could not access our belongings after breakfast. We left the debacle to the hotel staff and went about our day. A fine day it was. We met the day as we always do, with zest for new experiences and zeal for life. Oddly enough, rapture had been proclaimed by a doomsday prophet from California. As it turned out, Jesus did not return to judge the living and dead after 6:00 pm May 21, 2011. In the mean time, Shannan and I had a grand day in the city of Augusta.

If not the places mentioned above, take some time to visit and run somewhere in Augusta.

Tom

Savannah, History, Literature, Mother's Day and Friendship

Choices. We spent a fabulous day in Savannah. Upon arrival we fortified ourselves with a light lunch at the Firefly Cafe, followed by an incredible tour of Flannery O'Conner's childhood home. Then we headed out to Wormsloe Plantation. What a treat! All of these made for fun new activities especially since Shannan, Joel and I have visited Savannah multiple times. Even so, we took time to enjoy classics like a walk along River Street and a ghost tour.

I write as we enjoy a brief afternoon respite. I'm looking forward to a new area in which to run tomorrow morning in this charming southern town. Options abound. Close to our hotel I saw a Botanical Garden, military installations, a local park, neighborhoods, and a small airport. Where to go in the morning for a run? I think I'll let my mood decide in just a few hours.

Fast forward, we are on the ride back home to Atlanta. As it turns out, I went for the airport. It quickly gave way to a nice neighborhood. I inhaled the maritime air, listened music and pondered Mother's Day (It was May 8).

Funny thing about choices. This morning Joel and Shannan did not go for a walk. Since I wrote the blog about our Brasstown Bald rain-out adventure (which happened long before I posted it) Joel made a new choice about meal portions. As a result, he has dropped a significant amount of weight. Now, when we choose a high cholesterol, heart stopping, fat-filled southern breakfast, he manages finds a healthy choice for his meal.

Even though we tinkered with the long-standing recipe for success, including an overnight, out of town outing, the magic ingredient of friendship won the day. More so than exercise, I strongly recommend friendship.

Celebrate friendship.

Tom

Summer Schedule

Finding time to exercise ranks high among the reasons many people do not lead physically active lives. In our highly scheduled society to exercise or not comes down to a question of priorities. That remains a hard pill for some folks to swallow. As an educator, I’ve just entered the best time of year for exercise, summer. I love the hot weather, being outside, sweating and a flexible schedule that makes it easier than ever to exercise.

I know many twelve month employees don’t share my enthusiasm as I ponder the joys of longer runs and more intense workouts. I will be teaching some during the summer term and working on a research project out of town, so it won’t be pure athletic bliss, but it sure will be nice.

Tom

Salt Seeking Runner

One of the hotel employees highly recommended a visit to the salt mines in Ouirgane. I loved the idea from the onset. She suggested we follow Berber Trails rather than take walk along the street. The well-trodden paths form a labyrinth which quickly spun me out of sorts, leaving me a wee bit lost. Forty minutes into the run and no salt mine in sight, I decided to try another day and to focus on finding the way back to the hotel.

The following morning, in preparation for another attempt at the denied destination, I asked another person at the hotel and received slightly different directions. Mental map ready, I sought out the salt mines. A resort, two hotels and three villages later, the salt mine continued to elude me. This day I had lots of time, so I cut across the tree-filled valley and joined trekking trails. I ran along a perilous ridge until I nearly went over a STEEP drop off (really). Footing secured, the vantage point gave view of a mountaintop that seemed only twenty minutes away.

Time can prove dangerous with too much or too little. I scrambled up the steep rocky face. The mountain's peak proved misleading. Beyond it loomed another charge I estimated to take ten more minutes to summit. So, again I scaled the increasingly difficult uphill terrain. At last the top fell under my feet and three valleys into my view. Stunning doesn't begin to get at it.

See the world differently. Run.

Tom

Post script- While walking Shannan and I finally found the salt mine. No one mentioned it had been abandoned for years. The destination disappointed, but the walk through the woods and over the river was well with the time.