A clydesdale no more!

GO UTES is right!! Just think, this time you won't be freezing your tail off!

Okay, I have a question for you about my injury. It used to be that the pain would stay the same in the beginning, middle, and possibly increase a bit towards the end. Then it would be a little worse afterwards, but ease up by the night. Now the pain seems a little worse in the beginning, eases up in the middle, and then comes back in the end (kind of like your hamstrings). What does that mean? Any idea? Should I push in the middle?

I'm not a Ute fan per say but I would sure love to see the Utes represent the state of Utah well tonight. GO UTES!!

For tonight, I'll be cheering for the Utes as well, but I'll be suprised if they even keep it close.

Teena - I'm not a good person to be giving advice on dealing with injuries. I usually just ignore them which isn't advised. Did you ever figure out what caused the injury (shoes, over use, etc.)? If that hasn't been corrected then you will continue to hurt. I'm guessing that it will be one of those nagging injuries that won't go away unless you give it sufficient time to heal. That is what has happened with my hamstring. I hurt it in January last year and it has bothered me ever since. Since runners are generally stubborn (or is it stupid?) we never really take the time off that is required to allow our bodies to fully heal. I wish that I could be more help.

Nope. Never really found out exactly what caused the injury. Just figured it had something to do with the Snow Canyon Half (either the steep downhill in the beginning, or running the whole thing too fast for my own good ... an easy pace for you of course :)). Although thinking back on it I did start experiencing some weird lower back pain a couple of weeks before the Half, but only at night when I was laying down. Weird. And that pain is now back. I have to say though, from the months of July through Snow Canyon (Nov. 8) I felt the best, strongest, and healthiest for years. No pain. Perfect and then boom!! I want to feel that strong again!!

(btw, I think both your adjectives for runners tend to be the case as far as I'm concerned! :))

Stubborn and Stupid......hey...that's me!!!

Speaking of which, go Utes.

I may be disowned by my family but I am going to cheer for the Utes tonight too. Well I guess I am cheering for the Mountain West conference not the Utes if the truth be told. I at least hope they give them a good game. I am even wearing red right now can you believe it!

21-zip at the end of the 1st quarter

I didn't disagree as much and nobody was really running the pace they wanted to. I was going to fast and you guys were going too slow. I really don't mind running alone.

I am grateful that you tried to run with me after all it is the thought that counts right!

Nice to have a group to "get you out of bed". I bet you sleep real good tonight.

Andy,

You're a lot tougher than I am. Even when I'm healthy I don't like running in these temps. I've been battling a bad cough from a cold so I'll stick with the treadmill for now.

Dale

Andy there was no way I was going outside today! Are you kidding me it was like zero degrees. Is there and circumstance where you would run on a treadmill?

I chickened out this a.m. because of the cold and now I'm ashamed of myself. Should have gone!!!

I wimped out too. I don't mind the cold. It's the icee road that scares me. I just can't get a quality workout in these messy roads.

Glad to hear your pace is improving and you're getting acclimatized to the cold.

This kind of cold would definitely slow your pace. So, maybe your pace wasn't a little slow but a little fast when adjusted for the cold.......

Kathie - The only time that I have run on a treadmill was when I wanted to get in an afternoon run and my kids were too young to leave alone.

Yeah right ... you're not going to run on the treadmill ... who are you kidding?? (or were you serious?)

Nice run Andy!

You don't want to ruin that tough guy image...

Don't do it Andy. You'll get spoiled...

Andy come to the dark side...you know you want too. First the treadmill and then we will turn you into a BYU fan!

I'm not sure which would be worse - running on a treadmill or cheering for the Y. I think that I will stick to the roads and rooting for the red.

Or you can be like me and run outside and on the tready and cheer on the Y and the U:) I'm not very loyal to anything here it is sounding like:)

Some times if the footing is bad, you will just be able to run harder on the TM.

I agree with you Rhett. If you want to get a decent run in on a crappy day, hit the treadmill.

Here is the true test of your loyalty. Would you have rooted for the Y if they had been in the same position as the Utes this year? I think there were a lot of Y fans and many others rooting for the U to beat Bama, regardless of loyalties. I'm an Aggie fan, I'm just happy to see anyone that I'm rooting for win.

No one can resist the lure of the treadmill...

:-)

Tough Andy!!!

Here's what to do: If you need a tough work out NOT speed, you run in today's horrible messy road condition. The treadmill can be a good speed work out substitution on a day with poor road/ footing like today. That's my humble opinion.

Here's the loyalty thing: I root for the Utes as long as they're NOT playing the Cougars.

There is no way I would root for the Y. I take too much pleasure in seeing Y fans suffer. I know that is terrible and I know where I am going because of it but I can't help it.

Oh Andy I get it now... you like to see me suffer that must be why you ran with me for a little while on Saturday!

Geez Andy, a little harsh:) I don't think I am a fan of either though so I won't take offense (I guess). But can't we all just get along:)

Jeff's question is moot. Because the Cougars will never be in that position...

Wow, you too Cal? You guys are brutal!

Where exactly are you going because of it Andy?

I agree with Smooth (sort of) and her loyalties. I like to see all the state colleges win unless they are playing my Aggies.

Cal you either a BYU hater or a dejected BYU fan. :) After watching them play Arizona...and Utah for that matter, I tend to agree with you. They should have played much better in that game but they were ill prepared and Arizona took it to em. Is that a reflection on the coach or the team? Maybe Mustang....oops!! Bronco will have them better prepared next year.

Sorry....now I am just having too much fun with this.

I do respect what Bronco has done with the team considering the recruiting limitations he has imposed on himself but I think he takes some of the views a little too far. The joy I take from them losing is because of the fans (present company excluded). The holier than thou "magic happens" attitude is tough to deal with.

My brothers bleed blue but me being the only girl...didn't get into it but I know what your saying. My sis-in-law and her hubby (major UofU fans) got in a fist fight with a big tongan Y fan. I'll have to tell you about that another time. Very funny. She kicked him somewhere special.

You know what I hate is the assumption that all BYU fans have a holier then thou attitude and that they are held to a different standard. Anything we or players say is taken way out of context. Did you watch the Fiesta Bowl last night? When Colt Maccoy recieved the MVP he said "First I'd like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, without Him, non of this would have been possible." Can you imagine if a BYU player had said that. All the Ute fans would be bagging on him. Many players from teams all over the country say stuff like that after games and no one cares, but not a BYU player, then they think they are God's team. Sorry to go off on my soap box. I love BYU, but I still cheer for the Utes when they are not playing a Mtn West team and I think most BYU fans do.

Rhett - I know that it is a vocal minority that gives the majority a bad name. The same goes for the drunk heathen U fans. My tickets are in the South bleachers with the obnoxious, drunk and sometimes vulgar fans and it is embarassing. That doesn't mean that all U fans are this way. I think that thanking the Lord for your blessings (as McCoy did) and saying that the Lord stepped in and made magic happen because you are living your life right (as Collie said) is different. The chip on U fan's shoulder is probably due to the little brother inferiority complex. Actually, I don't take anything sports related too serious and find it funny how intense people get over a game.

I have free use of treadmills at work this month so I ran on one today. I could not have run nearly as hard outside with the snow and ice... That said, my warm up and cool down were very monotonous. I think it is much more enjoyable to run outside, even in inclement weather.

Andy, I'll see you where ever it is that those that don't root for BYU go. For me it is not so much that I went to the U and not BYU but that I'd find it hard to root for a school to which I could not go. Lots of good things about BYU but I could not attend it and thus do no root for them. Hmm. does this make any sense? Perhaps I'm just petty.

Now we're on the Hot discussions list.....Great.

Sweet discussion Andy and Rhett.

Andy, I agree with you to some degree but can't make the same generalization that Y fans are the way you explain (but I'm sure there are many who are), and this is coming from the kid who has joked about designating that my tithing not go to BYU. :)

Rhett, I love what you said because you see it all over sports. Pointing to the heavens or thanking God or Jesus. Nobody thinks twice about it until a Mormon kid spouts it off, then look out.

Andy did you foresee that your 2-line post this morning would blossom into a Hot Discussion on Utah vs. BYU?

Fly...I don't get what your saying about not being able to go there? Just kidding, I would have been able to go there but I chose not to. Too many dang flippin Mormons!

Oh I guess I have to take the blame for this sorry... Not really this is fun :)

So I did go to the U and because of that I find it hard to root for the U. Go Titans! (the ones from Fullerton)

Mormon kids may be singled out when pointing to the heavens or thanking God or Jesus.... but isn't the same true for Baptists in the south or any dominant religion that is perceived as saying we were chosen at the expense of others?

(You don't have to be Mormon to go to BYU.)

I must be blind. I don't see any "holier than thou magic happens" attitude. Are you talking about it coming from the players or the fans?

I have no loyalty to fans. Fans are just people. They can be obnoxious or entertaining. I agree with Fly, one's loyalty lies with one's Almamater (sp?). That said, I, hubby and our children attended and attending BYU, so we're loyal to the Y, but it doesn't mean my family can't be rooting for the Utes. I applaud the teams who come prepared, do their best, show sportsmanship and class no matter the pressure. This year, the Utes did all that. They did the Conference proud. I become (temporarily) a Utes loyalist.

As for the "Mormon kid syndrome". Pour it on. Let there be no hypocrites. Some Mormons might take offense by that kinda "reverse prejudice". Heck, Mormons are peculiar people. Thank God, Mormons get noticed.

Fly...you just have to pay the non-Mormon tuition, and of course live by the honor code.

Smooth...Well said! Those Mormons really are peculiar!

Sweet! We really lit up Andy's blog with this BYU/Utah converstation. Andy, you are right. It is the vocal minority that give a bad name to each side. All and all I think it is just fun razing of each other. Heck, sometimes when I know it will get under the skin of a Ute friend of mine, I'll say things like being the Lord's Team just to get a rise out of him, even though I am just joking and know that God really doesn't care who wins a sporting event.

Fly, it is actually easier for a non-Mormon to get into BYU if they are willing to live the honor code and pay "out of state" I mean non-Mormon tuition, just like it is easier to get into BYU if you are from New York than if you are from Utah. They like the little bit of diversity they can get.

I'm glad that all of this is taken as it is intended - razzing each other for fun. I would hate if anybody were to be offended because 90% of what I say isn't serious.

Sorry I missed the action here, so I'll just bump it for the count.

I was just glad when the U of A's football team beat BYU on the same ASU's basketball team beat them. Go Arizona!

You got sick for bagging on BYU! It's magic! Hee, hee! :0) Really, I hope you feel better.

I think that you are right. I knew that was going to happen.

Oh no lets not start this again!

Way to get out there Andy I hope you get feeling better soon.

Nice job getting out Andy even though you didn't feel like it, sometimes that's the toughest thing to do!

You can never go wrong following Smooth's example!! She will NEVER lead you astray!! One of a kind that lady is!

(nicely done)

Sorry you aren't feeling well. Hope something magic happens to make you feel better:)

Sorry you are sick Andy. I hope you feel better soon. Today would have been a great day to run outside too :(

How sad! It's supposed to get near 50 degrees today. Maybe this afternoon?

It was 37 degrees this morning. Almost tropical, except for that bitter wind! ;-)

You guys really aren't making me feel better about not being able to run today. Maybe I'll feel well enough to run in the storm tomorrow morning.

Storm-Schorm!!! I'm sure you're tougher than any little-piddly storm that is supposed to put down 6" of snow!

What??? You are sick!! I thought you were indestructible. You better get better quickly ... you have those pecs to show off in San Diego.

Hopefully you are in bed sound asleep.

I'm sorry you aren't feeling well.

Sorry you're sick. I was too sick and busy to run today as well. What a bummer!!! Get better soon.

It's all that crazy outside running in freezing temps that finally caught up with you. I hope you get feeling better soon. Have a bad cold is miserable.

Be careful Andy. I ended up with pneumonia last year from running with a cold and having it settle in my chest. It took forever to get over it!

Get better Andy....My wife had caught a cold a month ago and it moved into her chest and then she got strep throat and slight pneumonia. She's still trying to recover from it.

I'll be sure to keep an eye on it. I seem to get this same gunk every year so I'm not too concerned.

I read these tips in the Runner's World log book:

"Running with a cold? First do a neck check. If it's a head cold (above the neck), go ahead with your workout. If the virus has settled in your chest (below the neck), skip your run and rest."

"If you begin shivering 10 min into a run, seek shelter immediately. In all likelihood, you have a fever."

I'm glad you took it easy on your run this morning. I wimped out and ran on the mill instead. How are you feeling now? I hope the cold goes away and never comes back.

Andy, please please please be careful. Running with junk in your lungs can be dangerous. I am 100% positive that is what made my asthma so bad last year.

Lots of rest and fluids today.

Get yourself better. You have San Diego!!!

Andy you need to take it easy kiddo! You don't want to make things worse, and then be down for along period of time...

I agree with Teena, lots of rest and fluids today, doctors orders!

Since your mom probably isn't on the blog, we will all be your mothers. BE A GOOD BOY AND REST! DRINK CHICKEN SOUP AND STAY IN BED:)

It was good to see you today. I wish you felt better. I think you were right I should have had you pace me today. I think I could have pulled off more consistent miles... plus it might be the only time I could have justified you running my pace. Again I hope you feel better soon and take care of yourself!

Andy, now that it's been a few months since your last big race and have had some time to log a ton of good base miles, what races are you looking at in the near future. Get some rest so that cold clears.

Take the day off tomorrow. Lotsa fluids. Nurse order!

Oh man, I hope you start feeling better. It's no fun trying to run while you're sick.

Sounds like a good plan. BTW, your "bummer lungs pace" is my "extreme puke pace".

I think you are smart to not run fast until you are 100%. You need to be careful this week the pollution is going to be really bad... I know your lungs will not like that.

Very smart!!

Hope you are feeling better by the minute.

(when is San Diego?)

Teena - We leave for San Diego Saturday morning. The weather reports look really good. Unfortunately, I don't think that I'll be running at all while we are on vacation.

Light is always good! :)

Did you take it nice and easy this morning or did you push the pace a bit?

BE CAREFUL!!

Man, I wanted to show of my guns also. But here we are, stuck in this cold weather, and we have to cover them up:)

Andy your blog is much spicier than mine. Guns showin' and what not.

7.1 miles??? I saw that on Kathie's blog once and I don't get the 0.1. Is it like money in the bank, every little counts?

I'm glad you're seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Does that mean you'll be training for some big race soon?

I'm glad I can cover up my guns and I'm not going to San Diego anytime soon. My guns more sagging than bulging.

Had you run by without telling us in advance so we could DVR you and your guns on the news, we would have all been disappointed. :)

Smooth - I just report what the Garmin says (with a tiny bit of rounding sometimes). There are a few loops that I regularly run and none of them end at exact mileage. I don't have any big race plans yet but am starting to get the itch to run fast again. Actually, I'm jealous of how well Fly and Rhett are doing and I'm only getting slower.

Hey Andy,glad to hear you're starting to feel better.

Hey looks like you are back to you 8 mile runs. If anything you are consistent Andy.

Okay, weird. You felt sluggish but heart rate the same. I really think that our heart rate zones change each day, depending on what we did the day before. I've had MAP tests done and so I know exactly what my Anaerobic Threshold is but by feel, it changes day to day. Anyway, food for thought.

Dang your good. 1 sec off with 8 miles. Great job Andy.

Not good - just consistent (I didn't mention how slow the pace was).

THAT's a GOOD JOB in my book. Mr. Consistent! Can I call you STEADY EDDY instead of Andy? ONE second? I think your finger was just a tad bit slow this morning, that's all. Better work on that! :D

I'm dissapointed that it took 1 second longer. And I thought we could count on you for consistancy! LOL. Really, you are amazing Andy. Keep it up.

I just call em like I see em! I called this one right.

I am glad you are feeling better. Be Careful out in all the pollution this week.

I hope you have fun in the sun Andy and show off that beach body!

Have fun in San Diego with the kids and enjoy the time off from running.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip.

It is good that you are being "forced" to ake a few days off. You'll probably come back feeling ready to run around the world!

Andrea - I hope you're right because I've felt sluggish and slow for 3 months.

Oh San Diego!!

(take lots of pics)

Have so much fun while in San Diego Andy! Run when you get back.

How was San Diego? Did you get to show off your guns at the beach? Did you run on the sand? I'm glad you got some well deserved R&R. You'll be rejuvenated and ready to be speedy when you get back.

Sounds like you and the kids had a great time. See, it didn't kill ya to take a few days off.

Hope the trip was good. What training plan/philosophy are you thinking of following? You are more dedicated than me, as I struggle to stick to a plan.

So did you get to show off your new found guns from the pullup contest.

Where's the pics?

How many whistles?

Welcome back.

So what distances and what races are you considering?

There are still no races in the near future but I need to start training like I have a race on the schedule. I'm going to start ramping up the mileage (mostly with the Saturday long run) and try to get a couple of speed workouts in per week.

Good to have you back, Andy. We were in San Diego back in August and I went for a run along the beach, but it was tough with all the humidity.

Welcome home! Sounds like a fun time with the kids. Glad to hear you're ready to start a new training cycle. Hope 2009 will be good to ya.

Yeah I am sure that is why you were looking at all the girls running on the beach is because you wanted to RUN with them!

The kid had a tough time going to school for sure, but did you have a tough time going to work also?

I think you're right. With the huge aerobic base you have built up you will be back in top shape before you know it.

I'm sure you'll be back in no time.

Where are you running that fast? Are you holding your breath or breathing the air outside?

You are back! I'm with fly and wondering if you are breathing in this soup!

I just saw a news story that said that the Utah air isn't as bad as it seems. Of course, the study was done by a BYU professor so I doubt it is very accurate. Yes, I am running outside and know that I shouldn't be but I like to live dangerously.

Right, Mr. Consistency living dangerously, breathing questionable Utah air. Your doubt on the accuracy of the Y professor's study tells me that the bad air does indeed cause the brain malfunction.

BTW, nice run with those speedy 3 miles there. You'll be dropping those paces in no time!!!

Do you run with scissors too?

Would you trust anything that came from the Y? Do you skip Ed Eyestone's article in runners World?

Wondering minds want to know?

Oh man ... this was a fun post to read! Good timing.

Seriously Andy ... you are TOO fast!

Nice job and nice commentary. So funny!!

What news story did you see Andy?

Not this one- http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,705279323,00.html

The only positive things I've found about our air is that it is not as dirty as it used to be http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,655192366,00.html BUT that is based on annual averages. Annual averages aren't doing much for me durring this temporary inversion.

So I misquoted the story (I have a tendency to do that). You are right, it would be better if I didn't run in this garbage but I personally find it better than the alternative.

Darn, I was hoping you found some good news.

I'm not sure what's better for me, running on the dreadmill, skipping a run all together, or breathing outside?????? I skipped today but that was mainly because it's a recovery week after Painter's. I need to start a new training program.....

I cheered when I saw the rain this morning... I think we will have good air to run in on Saturday.

How many pair of shoes do you rotate though?

I haven't been rotating my shoes for a few months. I've just been running in the same pair every day. I used to rotate 2 or 3 pair but really didn't notice much of a difference.

Hallelujah for rain and better air!!!

January is a good month to pick up clearance shoes (last year's model). My new shoes was waiting for me on the porch when I got home from Painter's last week. I got it on Runningwarehouse.com for $59.95 free 2 days shipping.

Andy sorry I flaked out on Saturday. Did you have a good turn out? I went to hit the snooze button and turned the alarm off I am not sure if it was on purpose or not!

There were 6 or 7 of us there on Saturday so about the usual size. It seems like there are a few different people there every week but they never come back. Maybe we are doing something to scare them off.

Sorry about the hamstrings flaring up again. You must be getting old, NOT!!!

Wow that is a really steep hill. I am sure your split were great, especially for 1800.

Hi Andy,

Me and about 15-20 other runners meet in the Salt Lake area for runs on Saturday. We will run Emigration at 7 AM this Saturday (meet at Ruth's dinner). It would great to see you there if you can fit it in. Keep up the winter running!

Thanks for the invite Mark. I would like to meet you guys for a run sometime but I have to get myself back in shape before I dare run with you.

Andy,

What will that take you to get "back into shape?" 2.75 days?? You are so crazy fast that it makes me sick!

Nice hillwork!

Andy I could a swore that I saw you today down in Springville, it being Wednesday. I was coming back from lunch and you passed me in your car and I said that looked like Andy, weird... I could be wrong though!

It was probably me. I was at a funeral in Mapleton this afternoon and was driving through Springville.

Clay - I just remembered somebody honking at me this afternoon. Was that you? I couldn't figure out what I did wrong (I'm glad that I didn't flip you off).

Andy - it was good to see you the other night. Tell me a little more about the San Diego Marathon.

It's just a thought right now. My sister in law lives in San Diego and ran it last year and wants to run it again this year. When I was visiting her last week she asked if I wanted to run it with her. There are a lot of things up in the air right now and whether I run it or not depends on how things shake out. I won't race it so I'm not going back on my "no marathons in 2009" promise.

Hopefully that will solve the problem! You were supposed to come back from Disneyland and run w/o any problems and feel great!

Love new shoes!!! Mine should arrive on Monday!!

Is it the muscles, tendons, or joints that are killing you. I hope it's just the shoes. Do you usually do about 400 miles in each pair?

Missee - That is what has been the most frustrating for me. I have reduced my mileage and have taken a few breaks so I expected to be running pain free and feel energized. Maybe my body just got used to the higher mileage and is having withdrawls.

Rhett - It seems to be muscular. I usually get 450 miles out of a pair of shoes so I'm definitely pushing it with 560 on my current pair.

I hope the new shoes work... I have never counted the miles on my shoes I just get new ones twice a year and call it good.

I am happy you new shoes worked! I am pretty sure I heard Jeremy say you were pushing him! Maybe you guys push each other in the best possible way!

Nice run Andy!!

Glad you like your new shoes. I was hoping for a miracle and bought a new pair on Thursday, but hated them! No miracle cure for me.

So just out of curiosity, when you are pushing yourself what type of pace are you running?

Very nice Andy. New shoes and new legs. You've inspired me to switch out to a new pair. Thanks.

Make that a new pair of shoes. The old legs will just have to do for now.

Teena - My pace is not impressive at all. Going up the hill it was 8:30 and coming down was 6:00-6:30. We were going between 7:00 and 7:30 on the flats.

Sounds pretty impressive to me. So, typically, when you are peaking for a marathon what is your pace like on your long runs? (perhaps I really don't want to know as it might make me feel hopeless ... no, tell me!)

Honestly Teena, you and I run similar paces. When I am training for a marathon, my long run pace is usually between 7:30 and 8:00 and my general aerobic runs are between 7:00 and 7:30. I throw in either one tempo run (6:20-6:30) or VO2 max run (6:00) per week.

Hey why just go for 6:30 why not 6:00? I run really really fast in my mind all the time!

I LOVE new shoes. I also LOVE it when "everything felt really good!" It's awesome that you are so in tuned with your body to the point you know what causes issues and you can get used to the little aches and pains.

Geez Andy, your bad runs are the same pace as some of my best. How would it be? Good work even when it wasn't the greatest, I just usually wimp out on those days.

Nice run even on a tough day. Probably just getting adjusted to the new shoes.

Way to get through a "terrible" one. We have good days and bad days as you well know. Tomorrow is a new day.

You did do hills twice last week remember...so that could be your issue. I am sure you will be back to your speedy self in no time at all.

Sorry to hear your not feeling yourself. Great job getting in a good recovery run.

Take care of those legs Andy!! They're a hot commodity (they are insured, right?)!!

Andy, stress can really to a number on you so don't under estimate it, I know this from personal experience. Just try and take it easy, and give your self a break once and a while;-)

For what it's worth, I've been experiencing a sense of malaise myself, and am not certain why.

Maybe you have Mono? :)

Seriously Andy maybe you should see a Doctor just to make sure it is nothing weird.

I wish that Mono were a possibility. I'm struggling through some other things and I think that it has just knocked me out of whack.

Sorry to hear you're experiencing dead leg syndrome and mental funk. For me, if it's stress, I baby myself. If it's depression, I visit or call someone who needs a little lift. Serving others does magic to me.

I tend to go through dead legs often. I hope whatever it is gets better! Keep up your running though because I have found that in difficult emotional times, exercise is so important! Great job!

Would a change of scenery help? How about some muddy trail miles? How about running in some wet, stale, snow? Want to join me for a run on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail this weekend?

Thanks for the offer Fly. I was looking at the BST today and thinking that a trail run sounded good but I won't be able to get away this weekend.

I'm in St.George next weekend, but if there is a weekend after that you want to go, let me know. I ended up running the first leg of the trail marathon I'm thinking about and it kicked my butt.

frightening

Ouch! I'm glad there was no major damage. I don't know if I would be the avid runner I am if I lived in a cold, icey place. I know I have to run in 120 degree heat in the summer, but if you drink enough it's not so bad. Ice is scarry. Andy, be safe.

You really have had a CRAPPY week Andy. I'm sorry. My week was good until today and I feel like I've been run over by a train. Hopefully we can both perk up for next week. I hope your shoulder and head feel better.

Oh Andy I am sorry I missed you at the run and I am really sorry you fell! I hope you are better. My troubles usually come in threes and it sounds like you have had at least that many so I hope you are done!

Welllll. It certainly could have been worse. But I hope it gets better.

WHAT IN THE WORLD?????

Man alive Andy ... I sure hope that your shoulder is feeling okay today. So ... is it?

This week will be amazing. It has to be ... law of averages, right?

:)

Have you recovered from your spill on Saturday? If you have I think it would have been funny to have been there and seen that. If you have not healed disregard the last sentence and replace it with I am so sorry you fell. :)

Of course the first thing that I thought was "I hope nobody saw that". I'm totally fine so you don't have to feel bad for making fun of me.

Glad no damage was done from the spill. Slippery ice scares me. Do you do speed work when it's rainy or snowy? Just wonder because you don't seem to run on the treadmill much.

I don't run on the treadmill at all. When I used to do speed work (when I was in shape) I would do it on the roads. If there was too much snow pack on the road then I would postpone it until the roads were clear.

That's what I thought. Part of the benefit of speed work is to learn efficient running form. Treadmill effects running form differently. I am debating where to run my speed work tomorrow. Your experience gives me something to think about. Thanks Andy!

I take it your shoulder must be feeling better. Glad to hear it!!

(Kathie ... you make me laugh)

Hope you are feeling better and don't have Salmonella illness.

Andy, that probably came across wrong. I didn't mean to make light of Salmonella poisoning, I was just thinking its one more thing to consider if you google the symptoms and they match.

Paul - I do eat a lot of peanut butter so that was a good thought. I'm really not exhibiting any of the major symptoms of salmonella poisoning.

Slappy huh? I haven't heard that one. I think mine are slappy every day! Great work.

Were they really more slappy or could you just hear it more because the roads were wet?

They didn't feel very smooth when they were hitting the road. I think that it was because I was being a little more cautious as I was running because it was slippery.

You may have already posted this and I missed it, but how is you shoulder doing after the spill the other day? You guys are having one nasty winter up there this year.

The shoulder is fine. It seems like the temperatures haven't been that bad this year but we have had more storms.

I try to imagine myself running on thin ice when the feet get slappy. It helps me to have a quicker leg turnovers and lighter footfall. I am tired of wet/slushy/icy roads.

Just the fact that you didn't bail on running today is amazing.

Nice job.

Very dedicated.

There is a sign that says "someone much busier than you is out running right now!" I think they are talking about you.

Killer night I hope you get a nap today.

I have taken a nap for Dale and it seem to work for him would you like me to take one for you?

Kathie - It couldn't hurt. Wednesday is the one night in the week that we don't have anything going on so I should be able to sneak in a nap.

Andy, what do you do that requires you to get up at 1 a.m.? You're not an escort are you?? :)

Nice job getting in the run regardless!

Teena - I was hoping to keep it a secret. In this tough economy I have to do anything that I can to make ends meet.

I can vouch for Andy, he's very discreet professional, and shows off those new guns if you pay him enough.

Oh man ... you two are a riot!!!

So, what are the fees like?

Every witty response that I can come up with violates the family friendly guidelines of the site so I guess I'll just let the topic die.

The topic will die then of sleep deprivation.

NO!! Don't let the topic die ... I am getting too many good laughs.

Please go on!!

Woe, Andy moonlighting to support his running habits, eh?

Yes Smooth, can you believe it? Our sweet, innocent Andy!!

How did I get this sweet, innocent reputation?

It just radiates from you Andy!! And check out those two sweet girl in your pic ... you have to be sweet and innocent!!

But then again ... you may have fooled us all!

Hey, I thought you're supposed to be taking a nap. You're sweet most of the times, innocent? well, till you're proven guilty anyway.

Well if he's not sweet and innocent then he doesn't get a nap ... there is NO REST FOR THE WICKED. Hence, we need to establish his true identity asap.

My desk at work isn't big enough to hide under for a nap. I am sweet and mostly innocent but sometimes wish that I had a wicked side.

You're wickedly fast!! Does that count?

Too Funny!!!! I think I peed a little laughing at this thread!

Kathie, you must restrain yourself.

Teena, you must go study.

Andy, go back to nap, careful, no drooling on your desk or computer or whatever it's there.

Leave it to Kathie to drag the conversation into the gutter:).

Okay Smooth ... I am going to be a good girl and hit the books. (But this was exactly what I needed.)

LOVE YOU ALL!!

Yeah Kathie ... way to go!!

(okay ... i'm leaving now)

Now there's the true identity. PUNSTER! :)

Over sleeping isn't always a bad thing. Hope your body enjoys the extra rest, both from sleep and the shorter run. Speaking of sleep, do you usually get enough?

Such dedication. Have a great day.

Fly - How much is enough? I usually get between 6 and 7 hours per night.

Glad to see that you felt really good during the run!

Glad to see you got out and did your run... hey four miles is still four miles.

You didn't get enough sleep yesterday so it's a GOOD thing you overslept. Happy to hear your run felt good.

Andy Andy Andy ...

I am SO EXCITED for you!! I know you are not one to post personal info on the blog ... but you HAVE to let us know how it goes.

Where long sleeves and a loose short ... we don't want any ladies falling you merely because you have those awesome guns and massive pecs. They need to earn that!!

Have a great time!!

I meant "Wear" not "Where" and "falling for you" not "falling you." I was too excited and wanted to be first too badly and hit [post comment] way too quickly!!

What a day for a first date. Good luck.

I don't want to jinx this for you but you do know that it is Friday the 13th right!

Really though I hope you have a great time tonight!

Sweet! Have a blast tonight Andy.

Andy boy! You don't HAVE to tell us everything. But at least let us know how the "pacing and start out slow" goes...Are you monitoring your heart rates? Are you drinking to keep the "dry mouth" away so you can converse? Plase be very careful not get into the puke zone. I know of only ONE girl who thinks puking is awesome. (Her initial is TJ) Oh, one more thing, finish "strong" so there'll be more future hot dates. Above all, HAVE A GREAT TIME!!!

New Beginnings indeed. Have a great time.

I wondered of you ran in the race or not. I hope they had a good turn out?

So any other information you want to add about your day yesterday??????

"Pretty easy pace" I'm sure that was pretty fast for the rest of us mortals... unless of course if you were tired from staying out late last night??? :) :)

Nice wet run in the snow! Nothin' stops Andy, rain, snow, shine or a late night hot date. ;)

You have a better attitude than me. I didn't enjoy anything about todays run other than the company! Way to go.

Michelle - I said that I tried to enjoy it. I'm sure that I was just as miserable as you were.

Kathie - I wish that I had some exciting details from yesterday. We went to Wiseguys and it was a lot of fun. I'm just not very good at this. Especially since I'm not sure that I'm ready for it.

Andy,

My guess is that she's waiting at home for you to call! :)

Nice miles.

Isn't it weird how just seeing another runner makes you pick up the pace. I find myself doing that too. It's fine if I'm doing a hard run, but when I'm on a recovery run I fight myself not to do it. Sometimes my inner competitor wins, sometimes the logical side of me wins. Looks like you are the only one up there who braved the storm today.

Sounds like you need to sign up for a race. NICE run to "de-sugar". Have a great week.

Did you ever really doubt that you lost that competitive edge?? No one can run your paces without being competitive!!

Nice job!

We all need to be juiced every once in a while to get us moving faster. Nice run.

And I thought I was tough for running in the rain last night. I'm definitely not run in sideways snow tough though.

Way to persevere this morning Andy, you are truly dedicated...

Keep working hard and good things will happen;-)

The snow didn't look to bad this morning but the wind sounded really bad!

GOOD JOB braving the wind. I think this Sat. is going to be perfect day for long run.

You are such a snob:) Fight that inner snob and get on a treadmill!LOL

I'm just a wuss.

:)

(you're hilarious)

Glad you were able to get to the rocery store!

btw ...

Any luck on finding your Mojo??

At least you don't have to put a big asterisk * next to all of your workouts like us treadmill junkies.

I had to take my son to the orthodontist this morning and I thought the roads looked great. I guess they were great to drive on but not to run on. Sorry your run didn't go so well.

Teena - Still haven't found the mojo. I know that I left it around here somewhere.

Kathie - The middle of the roads seemed alright but the shoulder and sidewalks were really bad.

It (the road and weather) will be better tomorrow. You're ready for some speed work?

Why not just rationalize that it was extra fluid weight? Works for me.

It is all muscle weight right... you have the big guns now from the pull-up challenge!

That's what I tried to tell myself but mirror said that it is all in my gut.

So who wants extra meat on your bones... the little old lady in Hansel and Grettle?

No I think it was the hot date!

Meat is neat! Guns are fun! Love handle is...?

Have a nice weekend -- hopefully more stress free.

Glad you decompressed. Enjoy this beautiful weekend.

Stress-Bad

Running-Good

Looks like you dumping the bad and the good is getting better.

Sounds like you had a great day. It's always nice when you can finish strong, especially when running that far.

I'D SAY, ANDY'S BACK!!!!

So that is how fast you were going when you passed me! I kept seeing you guys getting further and further away. When you figure out this mental thing let me know I think we all need help in that area.

I didn't come in last today in fact I was the first girl to finish just because Lora ran slow and Jamie when longer but I am taking the win anyway.

Thanks for the insight, upon reflection I think this is similar to my challenge in kicking up my training.

You've been ready for some fast running for quite awhile now. This mental thing is such a bugger. Perhaps a new goal, a race, a new challenge to spark it up? Spring's around the corner and I'd say you're BACK!

Looks like your MOJO found you!!

Very cool!!

Great start to the week. Looks like you got an early start.

I am glad your runs are getting better. I am sure that your hamstring will heal soon, I hope anyway. Have you decided on any races yet or is 2009 going to be race free?

Still no decision on any races. I may go to the Lake to Lake with Jim but that's just for fun so it doesn't count as a race. I just don't feel like I am in good enough shape to race well right now.

Hey Andy, are you planning on running St. George this year?

Dale - I don't think that I will run St. George this year. Although, I am starting to miss training a little so that could change.

I'm impressed that you have been able to keep up running so many miles even without a race planned. Having a race comming up always help motivate me to run more.

Andy, nice start to the week. I was surprised how warm it was too. I'm thinking along the same line as Rhett. I guess it's good to take a break from training too. It looks to be like you're ready to get back into training mode again.

Hope that hammy comes around soon. I have one that doesn't want to heal too, real pain in the butt....or back of the leg.

Go Andy Go!

Stress kills. Glad yours is reduced.

Oh this news makes me so happy! I hope your runs keep getting better and better!

Sweet!!! That's great news. Maybe you'll get excited and sign up for SGM.

WooHoo!!! That's wonderful news to hear that you're getting into "the zone". Hope it keeps up and you continue to find joy in your running.

Good deal

Every day can't feel like yesterday... I just hope that you will have much more to come.

Like Forest Gump said: "ya never know what ya gonna get." Today is already history. You might feel strong and good tomorrow.

Have you heard of dynamic stretches or mobility exercises? They mimic the way your muscles and connective tissues actually stretch during running.

Sounds like a wild ride for the kid in the stroller.

It must have been. After they got back, Trevor was waiting for the rest of the group and put his 2 year old son in the car to keep warm. He locked the door and didn't know how to open it. Had to have the police come and open the door.

Nice run there Andy. Very sweet pace! So happy to read that you were feeling good! Love it!!

(Hope the police got there in a hurry!)

Havent checked in with you for a while Andy sorry. Sounds like things are back to normal for you. Have you decided on any races this year or just going to keep things nice and relaxed this year??

I am glad you had such a good run this morning. Are you going to be doing Lake to Lake or is that still up in the air?

Mark - Still no races planned. I am just starting to feel like maybe a race is a possibility.

Kathie - I am not going to do Lake to Lake. There was not enough interest to put together another team. Good luck and I hope you guys have a great time.

So, I guess you aren't doing WBR with us again? I didn't think we were that slow:)

Michelle - I was a last minute fill in because somebody backed out a couple of days before the relay. I do not think that I will be part of the team this year unless you need another emergency fill in.

Oh, I see. Well, I actually don't have any idea who's running this year. Marci's pregnant and one other girl (Mandy) is ready to pop any day so who knows what will happen.

Oh my birds doing the "birds and bees" on a run shocking!

I find it funny how lack of sleep can really affect your motivation to go on a run but once you are out there it is all good!

You really need to consider giving up the escort job Andy!!

You amaze me!

Nice job!

Very funny Teena. My career in the escort service never really took off. I'm not sure if it is because of the faulty product or poor marketing. I only go to the office while my kids are in school. The cost of that flexibility is that sometimes I have to work into the wee hours to get things done. It's a small price to pay, though.

Oh man, you make me laugh. This is the biggest reason why I miss the blog! Your self-deprecation cracks me up.

Btw, you seriously seem like an incredible dad (escort or not). Very impressive.

LOL Well I hope you waved back at mister egg mcmuffin......with all FIVE fingers! Tomorrow will be better.

Andy I hate that, some people have no patience! I had a lady one morning stop and get out of her car and tell me that I was running the wrong way, lets just say I gave her a peace of my mind! I agree with Jeff, tomorrow will be a better day;-)

Keep working hard.

I always think it is a waste of rubber to spin out, but whatever gives them their kids.

Hey that is the only way the dude can go fast! He was just jealous of your speed!

Tell me about it. It was so slick out there. Oh hey Andy was going to ask you about what time do you normally get out and do your runs on the parkway up there?? We were thinking about going and running that one of these Sat really soon. And maybe hook up with you for some of it.

Let me know when you want to run and I can meet you. I usually try to get out early when I have my kids but can work something out anytime you want to come down.

K sweet man. Not sure when we will want to come up that way. But it will be sooner then later.

I'm glad to hear there have been no more falls since that bad one you had a couple months ago. Be safe out there. Soon the weather will be perfect for running.

It is Spring. In Utah, if you don't like the weather, wait just a few hours, it will change. Crazy...but that's the way it goes.

Glad you got your run in without any incidence.

The moon was indeed gorgeous this morning. Though I sure wouldn't have minded missing it if that meant I was sleeping in.

So what's up with those knees Andy? Is it the chronomalacia thing under the knee caps? I hope they start behaving themselves.

My knees have always been problematic. They didn't really hurt this morning. They just didn't want to respond as quickly as I would have liked them to.

Brrr, I was inside nice and warm.

Better a bit of brrr then borrrdom on the bummermill.

My vote is that you worked really hard! I notice that too that when the run is pretty it is easier... why is that?

I agree, the soreness means you earned it. Your sore muscles will be stronger and better; they didn't know the recovery run was on an ugly industrial route.

Andy and Kathie, I agree. I like to choose runs that are pretty. I think the more scenic runs distract you from running and it becomes more enjoyable.

Sorry about the route ... sorry about the legs ... but all this just means that the next few days will be AWESOME!!

I think we are all a little too co-dependant on our garmins. I feel naked without it.

Oh I hate that I really love all the info you get about the run. I feel naked without mine too.

I'm glad to hear there was no knows about your legs hurting. I don't know Jim. Does he have a blog? I think I'm ready to give Boston a real sub 3 attempt as well. I really feel like I am way ahead of my conditioning that I had at SGM.

What, there is like 1 runner out of every 5000 or so that can make you feel that way?? I am so sorry Andy!!

You're a riot. Have a great evening and a fantastic Sunday!

I thought you might be back there, I really didn't want you to lap me so I pushed the pace a little or at least I thought. When I read my splits they were just the same old speed.

I will do my push ups tonight I am also going to start week three column three and see how it goes.

I with you bring on the spring!!!!

Spring has sprung...so will the legs. The push up challenge is quite fun; now that I'm done with it, I can say that. The key is consistency. It did get easier at one point. I had doubt in week 5 but was pleasantly surprised that I felt stronger and didn't have to repeat any week. I've been told that my form wasn't perfect though; but I don't care.

At least you still don't have to go through the motions like I will have to tonight.

What do we need to do to add some excitement to you runs Andy?

One of these days I will learn to put the r on your!

It's St. Patrick's Day! The little leprechauns didn't visit you? The rainbow didn't arch over your house? Running 8 is GREAT!!! :) :) :) :) :) Keep going through the motion, it's good for the emotion!

I need to run on the park way more. Have they added restrooms yet? I base my runs on where I can stop when I need to "go"!

No restrooms yet. I just read an article that said they are going to put them in and are just trying to get the money to do it. That's the biggest problem. There isn't even a store close by that you can go into and it isn't private enough to take care of business in case of a real emergency (for the record, I've never done that anywhere at anytime).

Are you serious Andy? Never had a bathroom now experience? I thought that was just part of running. I'm with you Kathie, my runs are based around bathrooms.

I've had a couple of bathroom now experiences but have always been able to get to a grocery store in time. I've never had to take care of it on the side of the road/trail.

Great job getting back into the push challenge. I would say for the last set just give yourself 3 full mins before doing it. So your muscles are back to full. It makes it much better if you ask me. Any sooner and you dont give yourself enough time to recover. Besides the quick easy bush stop for guys. I have never had to have one of those other kind of pit stops thank goodness too.

That's what I call GREAT potty-training! Nice run to scout out the mile marker. Keep up the push up challenge. I'm going to keep doing push ups on my core work days. I find that it really helps me with my running form. My arms used to just "come for the ride". Now I can pump them like real runners do and feel strong.

I'm glad someone is out there checking mile markers to make sure they are correct. Nice run Andy.

Must be getting old!

[Editor's note]: The above comments by Mr. Draper are his own feelings and do not reflect the opinion of the FRB.

Andy you can't be getting old that would make me prehistoric!

Maybe its the 10,000 miles you ran last year.

I must be old. I really thought that taking it easy this year would make every run feel great. I think that my body got used to higher mileage and a structured training plan and is now rebelling.

Love the garmin...not sure how I ran for a year without one?

Love the freedom the Garmin gives to do what ever you feel like doing and change your mind in the middle of a run.

Nice meandering with your "training partner". I did the same when I ran into a girl from my ward and she "hitched" a ride today. TGFG and TGIF!!!

I am glad you came...who would have been "in charge" if you didn't come!

Andy, I can't believe you are still in a bit of a running funk. You are our stalwart, consistent runner man. If you ever falter, we may all quit running and just sit on on our couches and watch TV and eat junk food. OK, probably not, but it is nice to know you're always out there getting it done. Way to get your butt out of bed and get in a good run.

So happy you didn't stay in bed. We all have mornings like that when we HAVE TO convince ourselves to go and do it!

GOOD JOB on the push up challenge! I hate wind AND horizontal snow which is what we had this morning. You must not like treadmill. WAY to get out there even with strange aches and pains. I have those, I call them old-age-itis. :)

Mr. Consistent. I admire you for it.

Andy, you gotta read jeffc 's blog today. You will love it.

Thanks Paul. The only problem is that if I keep doing the same thing day after day I can only expect the same results. If I were more driven like Rhett, I would be having an incredible training phase and be getting ready for an amazing run at Boston.

Wow you are a really great dad if you can fix a hair emergency. I don't think my husband even knows how to put in a pony tail.

I'm pretty much limited to pony tails and braids. I have tried the curling iron a few times but it takes too long (especially with 2 girls).

Oh funny Andy. When I am gone, poor Jared calls the neighbors for hair. But now my oldest is 13 so she can help the 6 year old.

Hair today, gone tomorrow. I miss fixing my daughter's hair. Andy, you're a great dad!

I ran on the LPT yesterday (Wednesday). I had read your blog earlier, so I checked again on the discrepency between mile marker 10 and 10.5...yep, it's a full .70. That's a long half mile!

I've had a hamstring that has been giving me grief for several months now too. I don't know if the Yoga is helping or hurting cause it ain't getting any better. If you ever come up with a magic solution, let me know.

Okay, I don't know if it's a magic solution but have you tried a foam roller? They are awesome to really get in deep and stretch your muscle while massaging it. Either that or a sport ball works. Although, I've had reoccurring hammy issues for the past year!

I bought the Stick last year but it just sits underneath my couch so it isn't really doing any good. If I spent as much time working on the hamstring as I do complaining about it, it wouldn't be a problem anymore.

Hey Andy, have you decided if you're going to run any races this year?

I know I've said this before, but YUCK!!!!

Rhett - I've lived here my entire life and this is the first year that I have actually contemplated moving to a warmer climate. This winter hasn't been that harsh but I have finally had enough.

I have had enough too. I hope the storm on Sunday is the last one. With our luck though it will go from 40 degrees to 90 degrees and skip all the really great running weather.

So I just clicked on your name on the "Most Recent Entries" and there is an imposter:)

Uh oh. There can't be more than one "Andy" on the blog. I guess it was only a matter of time before it happened.

I think I am going to start going longer on the weekends too, of course my longer is much shorter than your longer.

There can only ever be one true Andy.

Sunny day = sunny lookout. Glad you had a short positive contemplating run. Tomorrow will be a good day for a long one.

Good job today Andy, your doing well..

Nice med long run with hills. So do you always run with your cell phone?

I take my cell phone in case my kids need to get in touch with me so I have it with me 90% of my runs.

Way to kill those hills Andy. It is pretty steep in that area. Did you go up and down 1800?

Good job on the hills. I need to do more hill work, since there were plenty in the run today. Nice coordination with the phone.

Kathie - I went down 1800 S and came up 400 N.

Nice to take advantage and hit the hills on your MLR.

Andy, Great job today and what is this push-up challange you are always talking about?

Clay - The challenge is to do 100 pushups. It is a 6 week program (http://www.hundredpushups.com/index.html). I'm sure with all of the exercises that you do you are already there.

Sounds like an exciting morning Andy. I am usually trying to run away from dogs but you are trying to catch them.:)

I have started week four over too. I don't want to move on until I am doing them with good form. Right now they are pretty ugly.

Hey I see you were out "chasing Tail" on Monday good for you! :)

Who can blame that dog for not wanting to run as fast and far as you do?

WAY to start the week: "chasing tail", that's a good one, Kathie.

Rest get lots of fluids and get better!

Oh I think I am going to try and go to the 2010 Boston too!

It would take a super-human feat for me to qualify for Boston 2010.

YAY! Boston 2010 here Andy comes! Get better soon and get that SPEEDY ANDY back quick!!!

Hope you feel better soon! Maybe you have a fever if the rain felt good.

Oh St. George ... LOVE that place!!

Have a good time. Rest up and have a GREAT time.

Oh I wish I were going to St. George! The kids have spring break but we have nothing planed!

I hope you heat that cold right out of you this weekend!

I sure hope you guys have a nice long spring and a cool summer after all this crappy weather you have endured.

Have fun in the sun. You deserve it!!!

How's the weather down there?

I sure hope you don't have a hernia. If that had to be repaired surgically it would keep you from running for a while. Take it easy and don't aggrivate it.

No, no hernia please. Enjoy the nice Dixie weather and time with your kids.

Yuck. So no posting for a few days. Are you alright?

Thanks for checking in Michelle. It's nice to know if I drop off the face of the earth somebody might notice. I was having too much fun in the sun to run or blog yesterday.

Well that's good to know:) Glad you didn't fall off the face of the earth:)

I'm glad you were hit by a flood of memories and not a FLOOD! Sounds like you're having much needed FUN in the SUN. ENJOY!

sounds fun man - good run

Sounds like a really nice run. I'm sure it's not too hard to stay an extra day in Dixie, hopefully you had some great weather during your stay.

Happy Birthday to your girls!!! Seven is a great age.

I am glad you are not as hurt as you thought.

Your girls are so cute. I didn't realize they are twins. Congrats on being such a good Dad.

and ... I'm glad you started enjoying it (even if it took you a couple of miles). :)

Yikes, its always those people turning right that never look right. I think anyone who has been running for any amount of time has had that happen. I'm glad you used your mad quickness to skirt out of the way.

I can whistle pretty loud and I always whistle when I see a car turning right and it usually get there attention. The bad part is I have to use my fingers to whistle and so I can't do it with gloves on. I am glad you didn't get smooshed.

It was nice to see you again today, sorry about the practice I am sure they were all at an Easter egg hunt.

Now that soccer season started, it's must be harder to schedule the long runs on Sat. You're doing a great job. Not very many parents would sacrifice their time to coach (I'm one of those, although I don't know how to coach either.) Have a Happy Easter weekend.

I found out later that there was an Easter egg hunt at the elementary school at the same time. I don't know how to coach either. Nobody else would volunteer so I ended up as the coach by default.

Nice job Coach!!

Just bring treats ... that all they care about anyway!! :)

(I'm kidding of course ... well, not really.)

((where was your Bunny suit ... don't they provide those to you at your "night job?"))

I can relate to your adventure "run." And I'm glad I'm not the only one to do these stupid things. My crazy ultra running friends don't really run the entirety of their mountain races. I guess it's just par for the course to have to "power hike" some.

So I guess the big question is did you clear you head or just scrape you legs?

Sounds like you had a lot of reasons to not go out for a run today. Good job on getting out there!

I think my legs were feeling like that last week and that is just not fun. Hopefully things will turn around a bit here for you the next few days.

Hannah Montana, huh?

You're such a cool dad!!

Sorry to hear about the taxes. Always a downer.

Taxes bite. I just filed for an extension so I still have no clue what kind of donation I'll be making this year.

Taxes do stink and I think it will only be worse next year, better hoard you running shoes now.

Good luck with the soda pop. I've sworn off the candy jar at work for a couple of months, but would probably go crazy without all the Diet Mtn. Dew I drink.

We'll be checking on your progress Andy.(btw, I've been off soda for 9 days now... my consumption was in the 48-72 oz per day range)

Nice to hear from you Cal. I had 44 on the way in to work and am already working another can. I rationalize that it is diet.

my most recent drink of choice was Diet Pepsi, because it comes in the nice 24 oz bottles. but a couple years ago it was Diet Mtn Dew... (our cafeteria used to refill my 64 oz cup for $.50 so i was doing that 1-2 times a day.)

Soda ... schmoda!!

Andy ... why in the heck are you trying to lose weight?? Have you gained since SGM? I can't imagine you needing to lose weight.

What if you replaced your soda intake with Green Tea?

(no way I could ever stay away from the candy dish ... no stinkin' way)

Teena - I'm not trying to lose weight. I have put on 10 pounds since St George but am happy with where I am now even though it makes me a little slower. The problem is that I have been drinking the soda to keep a higher weight which isn't a healthy way to do it. I need to find a way to maintain a higher weight in a healthy way. I'm not sure if that makes any sense. Aren't you supposed to be studying?

Yes, I am suppose to be studying but you all are far more interesting than vectors.

Hey ... I know EXACTLY what you are talking about. I am trying to do EXACTLY the same thing. I have added a bunch of strength training, an extra protein shake, and am trying to eat larger portions during meal time.

I am so excited that you are trying to do the same thing. Now I have someone to help me! SWEET!!!

Stopping soda at least on a daily basis will help you feel better. Once I went a year without drinking soda and I didn't miss it. Now I only drink soda as a reward, usually one or two 12oz cans on the weekend and those are diet. Like you, I just don't like how it makes me feel. Good luck. Do like Teena and eat extra protein and good carbs for those extra calories.

All I can say is I hate you both!!! I have been trying to lose the same 10 pounds for two years now! (I guess I have not been trying too hard) Anyway I do understand and I am glad you are giving up the soda... replace it with cheese that is what I want to add back into my diet and can't!

Andy, you can come and take 5 lbs from me any time.

Rhett - I gave up soda for a couple of years and only had them as rewards as well. After St George, I completely fell off the wagon and got into the habit of getting one every day.

Maybe you should try some aversion therapy. :)

Sounds like Teena is willing to beat the crud out of you, Andy.

I need to show off these massive muscles I've been accumulating through all this extra strength training somehow!!

Meet me at the flag pole with a soda Andy!

Andy, congrats on the decision to stop drinking soda. I just swore off soda again too, but it was for the opposite reason of you - I have been trying to lose all the weight I gained after SGM for some time now, and even though I feel more fit, it has not been coming off. I attribute that to drinking soda - like Cal, I was probably in the 48-64 oz range per day. I have been off soda for more than a week now, the weight is coming off slowly, and I feel better. In time, I am sure I will not miss it . . . :(

I have one Cherry Pepsi a day except on Sunday, usually 20 oz's or so. I get them at this little dive in Spanish Fork called Glades, they actually add the Cherry in. Its delicious! I have cut down a lot, I use to have 3 or 4 of them a day! I want to try and cut them out completely, but they are sooooooo good!!! Maybe now that you have put down the gauntlet I need to step up;-)

I don't know if I can, I'm not worthy!!!

All this talk about wanting to increase weight sucks...like Kathie, I hate all of you that are trying to GAIN weight. I can gain ten pounds in a week...I've been trying to lose ten pounds for 2 years now...just bites. And I rarely drink soda...maybe I should start....

It's even cold here in Havasu. Our high was in the 60s yesterday. I think that may be a record low for the High. By Monday, they are predicting 103 though. Now that is a big change in a few days.

I'll have to remember how much complaining I did about the cold weather when it is unbearable hot here.

It was nice to see you this morning, so are you upping the miles for a race or just for the fun of it?

I need to try to get back into shape. I thought that cutting back my mileage would make me feel better but I'm finding that I feel better with higher mileage. I'd like to run 15-18 miles on the Saturday's so when I decide to start training for a marathon again I will be ready.

Why can't it be spring all year...

Still off the soda?

Still no soda. Although I did cheat a little and sipped the foam off one of my kids drinks. I've lost 4 pounds so I need to find a way to supplement the calories.

And here we are at work.

Did you see MattK went sub 3:00, with an impressive negative split.

Paul - He ran a great race. His splits are almost identical to a guy in my running club. I wonder if they ran together or it is just coincidental. I better get my butt back into shape. I now have something to shoot for next year.

So Andy,

Are you going to run Boston next year?

Try eating healthy carbs right before you go to bed.

Btw ... no complaining allowed if you are at least running!! Just teasing ... complain away my friend.

Boston 2010 is a long ways away but right now my plan is to run it. I have to try to get my "speed" back first. I guess I have 365 days to get it back.

You'll get there.

And that's even more incentive for me to get there.

Sweet!

I was so stinkin' jealous when I was on the phone with Smooth yesterday. She had just gotten done introducing Rhett to China Town.

I want to be there next year too! I hope we all can be there!

Kathie --

YES YES YES

You have to be there!!! We all have to!!!

That is consistency, to hit 8 miles only one second off.

So that's the key, huh? I need to make my form feel more fluid? :)

(How do you do that anyways?)

Hope you are having a great morning Andy!!

Why does it always take 3 miles to feel good? I think that is why I hate 5K's just when you are in the grove you cross the finish line.

Smooth and I were talking this weekend about how amazing it is that you can run almost to the second from day to day. You are amazing.

I would have snatched it right up.

But you should always follow your gut on those things. Maybe the next person coming along needed it more than you...

(Nice tempo miles!)

I'm with Cal -- if nobody was around who you thought might have dropped it, I'd have snagged it up.

And if you didn't pick it up, are you sure it wasn't a $100 bill? :)

Wow I just hope I am never cursed with having to decide to pick up 10 bucks or not. I am with Paul on this though. At the speeds you run how sure are you it was only 10?? Good to hear your getting back into your groove.

I'm impressed that you just left it, know that the next person probably won't be the rightful owner. Your a good man Andy B.

Nice running Andy. If I could only be as consistant as you...

I really think you are about to find that MOJO you have been looking for!

Yeah this hot weather really blows! ;) It's supposed to start raining tomorrow :(

Nice run there Andy!!

That's a great sign to be running a mile more than planned. Very cool.

Take care of that hammie Andy.

Crazy how I get all nervous now when anyone says they are hurting anywhere.

And I'm sure "slow" for you is pretty dang wicked fast! :)

Have a geat day!

Thanks, Teena. My legs haven't felt right for months. The hammie was just a little extra sore this morning.

I bought this lotion stuff at Wasatch Running that is great for chronic pain. It heats things up nicely and feels like you have a heating pad on it for quite some time. Plus, it doesn't smell bad. It's called Flex Power. Pretty good stuff. Wish it would heal stress fractures though! :)

Teena I need to try that. I have some stuff that I tried at SGM last year but it smells really bad.

This stuff doesn't smell bad at all.

Yea my stuff smells so bad my hubby won't come near me when I have it on. Which has its advantages :)

I guess that means the hamstring didn't bother you? Good. It's already soccer season there? Glad I don't start coaching again until September.

I only had mild soreness in the hamstring. We have a spring and fall season but they only last about 6 weeks each (8-10 games). This is my son's last year playing (whose team I coach) so I will probably start coaching my daughters next year.

Nice job Andy!!

Still don't know how you can call a 7:45 a really pace.

(How did the game go?)

Sorry I didn't make it today I wanted to run my old route and see what I could do.

So did Jeromy not so today or did you go on your own for fun?

Just the usual ...

You are AWESOME!!!

(I hope "just the usual" means no hammie pain!)

Hey the weather was at least great today. I hope it says like this for a long time.

Teena - The hamstring was still sore, as usual.

Kathie - I thought it was a little cold this morning. I had to dig the running pants and gloves out this morning.

I hear it snowed up there again. Is this winter ever going to end for you guys?

Great job on getting in some miles.

Hey Andy, unless you already have a connection for your shoes I recommend giving the St. George Running Center a call. Bloggers get a 15% discount and free shipping. I've gotten my last several pairs of shoes there and have been real happy with the price and service. Don't mean to sound like an advertisement but if I like the business I'll recommend it.

Thanks Jeff. There is a local running store that gives 20% off if you pay in cash. My running club also gets 15% off at another store and we are having a meeting there tonight. I'm going to get a pair while I am there.

I love new shoes... I should be getting mine in the mail from St George running center any day now. I won 20 off from them at the lake to lake relay. I can't wait until they get here!

New shoes rock! Did you get your blogger discount too Kathie? Double discounts?

Don't mind us Andy, we're just having a little conversation on your blog...:)

Hey I've won twice discount coupons from St. George running Center from winning 1st AG at the Spectrum. I've never used them. I thought I had to go to St. George to shop. So, Kathie, do they give you double discounts?

Sorry Andy on shanghaing your blog.

I didn't ask because it said on my coupon "not valid with other offers"... I should have asked anyway...stink!

Hope you like the new shoes. I've noticed prices keep on creeping up, too.

In my limitied experience, DeBoer's is always less expensive than Striders when you account for the cash discount Dennis gives. But, he has much less overhead it seems.

DeBoer's stopped carrying the shoe I like, because Dennis said it was too expensive. I am sad because I always like to shop locally. Maybe I can talk him into carrying it again.

Great speed Andy I knew you always had it in you... it is time to let it out!

I've never been to DeBoers but I've bought most of my shoes as Striders. I usually have to get the old models on clearance because the new models are just too dang expensive. I've compared their prices with Sports Authority and Wasatch Running Center and they're all about the same. I might have to make a trip to DeBoers and take a look.

Well, I hope that run answered the question for you.

Andy, those are some fast "easy mile". Good for you. New shoes always seem give a little spring to your step.

Sounds heavenly.

I haven't played bball for a number of years -- seems everytime I did I'd get hurt. However, for some strange reason, I still have dreams where I'm dunking a basketball.

You boys are funny!!

Ry tried to show-off and dunk the basketball for me several months ago. He about threw his back out!!!

Hey Andy ... you realize that we are talking about you on Paul's blog, right?

LOL yeah during my rehab from my ankle/foot sprang. I took up bball with the ward for a while. Man did I lose my vertical leap. LOL And yeah you think your quads are in shape till you play a few mins. Just be very careful man and have fun.

My son chipped his front tooth dunking... not on the rim on the floor... he missed.

The same thing happened to me today from playing volleyball last night. And last night my quads were on the verge of cramping up on me.

Oh man I would have liked to have seen that... I ran up 800 west for a while around 7:30 were you any where near there?

Since when do you listen to Teena and Smooth?

Wow, 13.7 miles in the rain. You're dedicated.

I'm sure if you DID run shirtless, RivertonPaul will somehow find photographic proof and promptly post them to his blog! :)

Stink!!! How did I miss that??? Next time you need to give us some sort of heads up!!! :)

(Did you really?? That's so cool!!!)

Of course I didn't really do it. The last thing people need to see is a scrawny guy with a pot belly running in the rain.

Sorry about the sick kids!!!

You jinxed yourself by saying you ran without your shirt on when you didn't!!! Next time you will know better than to play with Smooth's and my emotions!!! :)

I can't help but crack up when I read that you are working during odd hours in the middle of the night!! :)

Have a great day Andy!!!

(I'm sure that your run was NOT clunky :))

Dude, quit working all those wierd hours and get some sleep!

Wow, up working at 3 and still get in a 9 mile run! You the Man!

I don't like to think while I run either! I wish it would just come naturally...but it doesn't

I know those days, man...good job getting in the miles. they will all pay off soon enough.

I think you caught your MOJO!!!

That is such an awesome pace!!!

(btw, how's your hammie?)

Solid effort. You only logged your easy miles.

Teena - There is only a mild burning sensation in my hamstring which is a real improvement.

Paul - Thanks. I accidentally added the 4 "fast" miles in the shoe distance box.

I was going to say something about the "burning sensation" and your late night job but I won't.

Great run!!

Kathie - I was wondering if anybody would pick up on that. Of course it was you that did.

Ha.

What are you saying about me... I just read it first!

Nice tempo run. So now that you are starting to mix it up again, I'm assuming you have a race in mind?

Rhett - I'm evaluating my options. As of right now, nothing is planned. Once I get my weekend mileage up to a decent level I will decide if I could be ready for something in the fall.

Nice mojo tempo run!

At least you have mileage!! :)

oh yeah ... and that burning sensation!! :)

See Andy I am not the only one that thinks that way!!!

Or maybe you just ran real fast yesterday and your legs a recovering a bit. There is no shame in a good recovery run.

Kathie,

I probably would have never thought that way ... you know I have a pure, innocent, naive mind!!! You brought it!!! :)

(and it was so stinkin' funny)

Slappy feet! Cool! It was about 90 degrees here this morning at 8 am while I was water running. Enjoy the cold.

Yeah it was sure chilly this morning. And all day really it seems. Crazy weather still. When are we going to get some normal weather??

It was hot and very muggy today -- in the steam room.

Sorry to hear of the aches and pains. But awesome job on the run. And to feel so strong at the end is even that much better.

I was going to ask you about you hamstring at the meeting today but I figured no one else would get the joke so I just giggled to myself!

You did a great job today! I am glad to hear you may be racing again soon. I was also glad to hear how you struggled during you first marathon too. It made you almost human (normally I think of you as Super Human)

Thanks again for all the marathon wisdom you gave us today!

Thanks Kathie. It didn't go as well as I had planned. I had all these things that I wanted to say but as soon as I opened my mouth all of my thoughts got jumbled together.

Mark - Things are finally starting to feel right again. Now if I could only get everything else in my life to feel this good. One thing at a time, right?

Ouch.

Hope it isn't shin splints. You weren't running in your old shoes were you?

Glad to hear that she is going to be ok. I hope that you get a nap today! Good job on getting out.

Hope things are ok. Pretty gutty dedication on your part Andy. Are you running Ogden?

Thanks, guys. Mike - I'm not running Ogden. I needed a little break for the past few months to recharge the batteries.

Wow Andy I am glad to hear she is OK.

Next time I don't feel like running I will remember your 5 miles with no sleep and get my sorry butt out of bed!

Andy,

Glad to hear that she is doing okay. And once again I am amazed at what a great guy you are!!

(Watched Transformers the other day ... couldn't help but laugh every time the word MOJO came up!!!)

I hope she gets better soon. I can't believe you still got out and ran. I'd have tried to sleep a bit longer.

Andy, you are a very good man.

I hope you got more sleep last night. At least you got out and ran that is more than most!

Glad you felt a little better.

Have a great evening! :)