Go, you chicken fat, go away!

2014 Ragnar Del Sol

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Location:

Mesa,AZ,USA

Member Since:

May 12, 2008

Gender:

Male

Goal Type:

Other

Running Accomplishments:

I started running again in 2007 after 14 years of not running.

Mile - 4:59 (high school 1992), 5:57 (9/21/2010 ARR Open Mile)

2 mile - 11:10 (high school 1992)

5k - 21:54 (11/18/2010 Tempe Road Runners 5k)

10k - 48:29 (5/9/2009 Race for Hospice)

Unofficial 10k - 47:11 (1/27/2011 Red Mountain Park)

1/2 marathon - 1:49:00 (4/4/2009 Havasu Half)

Marathon - 4:33:09 (11/21/2009 Mesquite Marathon)

Short-Term Running Goals:

Run a half marathon in under two hours.

Run a marathon in close to 4 hours.

Long-Term Running Goals:

Stay healthy long enough to live through the millenium.

Personal:

I am married and have six kids. 

Blog title explanation

Bloggers I've met in real life: 1MileToGo, Aaron Kennard, Andrea North, Arizona Desert Monsoon, auntieem, Bec, Ben, Benjamin, Bonnie, Camille, Cari, Collin Anderson, David Holt, DooneEight Kid Mom, Erico, Flatlander, Gary, Jake Krong, JamesW, Jose, Josse, Julieesplin, JunKelli, Kerri, KP, Kyle Dion, Lightitup, Little Bad Legs, Lybi, Marthon Dreamer, M, Mary Ann Schauerhamer, Misty, Nan, Peds Endo Doc, Rachelle, RADRhett, Riley Cook, Rossy, runningafterbabies, Sasha, Scott Hughes, Scott (Kelli's husband), Scott Wesemann, Slow Joe, Spencer Simpson, Stephen, Steve Piccolo, Susie, The Rookie, Toby, Tracy, Twinkies, TylerS, Walter

Favorite Blogs:

Click to donate
to Ukraine's Armed Forces
Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Lifetime Miles: 803.99
Asics Gel 3030 Lifetime Miles: 204.85
Saucony Hurricane 13 Lifetime Miles: 149.22
Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Lifetime Miles: 87.49
Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Lifetime Miles: 800.59
Brooks Ravenna 4 Lifetime Miles: 88.83
Mizuno X10 Trail Lifetime Miles: 180.06
Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Lifetime Miles: 802.77
Asics Gel Kayano 21 Lifetime Miles: 56.47
Mizuno Wave Inspire 11 (blue) Lifetime Miles: 800.75
New Balance 1260v5 Lifetime Miles: 9.19
Reebok Floatride Lifetime Miles: 8.23
Total Distance
358.08
Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 95.21Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 67.08Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 40.58Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 63.06Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 19.20Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 11.55Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 31.84Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 24.56
Weight: 833.33
Total Distance
3.07

First run of the year.  First run of my 40th year.  Gotta lose some serious weight this year.
 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.07
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Wed, Jan 01, 2014 at 19:59:20 from 66.69.93.8

Welcome to the blog! Best of luck in all your goals and endeavors.

Sincerely,

SlowJoe

From SlowJoe on Wed, Jan 01, 2014 at 20:00:09 from 66.69.93.8

My resolution is to be kinder to others.

From Burt on Wed, Jan 01, 2014 at 22:02:48 from 184.98.222.93

I really hope this is will new blogging endeavor will be a source of inspiration.

From allie on Thu, Jan 02, 2014 at 14:59:03 from 174.23.134.136

40? oh my.

From JD on Thu, Jan 02, 2014 at 15:16:29 from 70.96.78.188

welcome to the blog! if you're looking for extra motivation and a good time, you should check out the "Ragnar Race Series".

From The Quiet Pirate on Thu, Jan 02, 2014 at 19:16:52 from 184.3.229.176

If you're looking to pick cotton and catch 'possums, come visit me. I can always use an extra hook. I mean hand.

From Tracy on Fri, Jan 03, 2014 at 06:09:51 from 50.103.252.199

First run down. Now where's the second? And what's with the .07???!!

From Burt on Fri, Jan 03, 2014 at 20:02:32 from 184.98.222.93

allie - yes, 40. So your little schoolgirl crush on me has to end.

JD - Quit trying to be an ambassador. I made Ragnar what it is today.

QP - I actually am looking to do those things. See you soon.

Tracy - The second one almost happened last night. Then I got invited to the Suns game. Then the Suns lost. Why did they lose? Because they got emotional and are too young to keep their emotions in check. Then Goran Dragic started playing dirty and it made me very upset. I don't want to hate him. We are talking about the Suns, right?

From Tracy on Sat, Jan 04, 2014 at 14:19:08 from 50.103.252.199

Did you get invited to Suns games on Friday and Saturday, too?

From Burt on Sat, Jan 04, 2014 at 17:38:14 from 184.98.222.93

I bought tickets for every day this year. But the funny thing was, the doors were locked yesterday.

From SlowJoe on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 15:05:26 from 66.69.93.8

That's because you bought tickets to the Phoenix Buns. I told you not to get them on ebay...

From Burt on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 19:45:03 from 184.98.222.93

Ah. Buns. Feel free to join me any time, Joe. It's nice to have another buns guy in the family.

From allie on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:11:39 from 174.23.134.136

hey, you should put me on your list. ok.

From Burt on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:21:52 from 184.98.222.93

Not this year, allie. Maybe next year.

From Tara on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:22:30 from 75.169.138.116

Hey, put Allie on your list. Let me know when you've got around to doing that. Ok?

New year, new you. That's the topic I'm guest speaking on in a Relief Society conference in Ogden, coming up. You're invited to come.

From Tara on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:23:24 from 75.169.138.116

Also, 40? Oh my.

From Burt on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:25:16 from 184.98.222.93

Tara guest speaking at a Relief Society conference? That's gotta be as explosive as Joe's Shizzle!

From allie on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:25:33 from 174.23.134.136

tara - i can spritz your hair up for the conference. let me know.

burt - i just threw my crockpot across the room. ok.

From Tara on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 20:35:23 from 75.169.138.116

Allie- I'm going to need a full crimp. Our newest sponsor, Krimp-&-Go called, they want to make sure we're using their product.

Burt- I can't remember, are you bald?

From Burt on Sun, Jan 05, 2014 at 21:14:32 from 184.98.222.93

Only on my elbows.

Total Distance
3.00

Saturday I put my running clothes on and wore them all day without ever going for a run.  So this morning I put them back (without washing them) and went out and did the same three mile route I did on my last run.  The canal says it's not open for recreational use until March.  I hope that means for fishing.  I saw plenty of people running and riding bikes.  Maybe they have the same philosophy I do.  They have to catch me before they can prosecute me.  Did I just say cute me?  I probably shouldn't have that philosophy since I work for an irrigation district.  Anyway, runners are allowed to wear the same outfit again without washing it.  Right?  So today's run felt a lot better than last week's.  Faster pace, too.  When I was done my clothes smelled like wet dog.  But I think it has less to do with wearing it twice and more to do with the fact that I've had that particular pair of shorts since the beginning of time.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From The Quiet Pirate on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 10:22:40 from 152.26.230.54

You're a hoot. My subCUTEaneous fat is jiggling due to the laughter. I think stinky clothes are an important line of defense for all runners. Mine send the message, "hey, I may not run faster than you, but the smell will kill you before you have a chance to mug me."

A pirate hook helps too.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 14:20:51 from 75.169.138.116

I don't get it, but I also don't really know you either. That's okay though, I can see talent and effort all over this run. Good job getting out and getting it done, Burt!

From: Anonymous

From SlowJoe on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 18:15:52 from 66.69.93.8

I would never wear the same running clothes again without washing them. Unless all my other ones were dirty. Or unless they were the only ones I could find in the dark morning. Or if I really liked them. Or if they were conveniently wadded up on my floor in front of me. You're gross.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 18:42:59 from 75.169.138.116

BTW, I found a solution to your 2014 goals.

http://image.com2us.com/hubweb/contents/5587_475386705928384_296850324_n1.jpg

From Burt on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 19:00:03 from 184.98.222.93

QP - Sadly nobody's tried to mug me yet. Is it my clothes? Maybe I'll run without clothes and see if that works.

Tara - It's really nice to meet you. I hope we can be friends. But not best buddies or anything. I'm a big fan of Ab-hancer. I'm keeping them in business.

Joe - I've worn your dirty running clothes more times than I can count.

From Tracy on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 20:17:43 from 70.194.134.46

There's nothing quite like the smell of sweaty running clothes. When they are yours, they kinda smell good.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 21:06:06 from 184.98.222.93

Tracy said what we were all thinking.

From allie on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 21:08:51 from 174.23.134.136

making deposits again, i see.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 21:17:55 from 184.98.222.93

allie - Are you on my list yet?

From allie on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 21:21:51 from 208.54.38.232

no, but acorn is. whatev.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 07, 2014 at 21:47:11 from 184.98.222.93

Acorn has a tolerable warm butt.

From Tara on Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 11:35:18 from 75.169.143.115

Sooo when are you going to run again? You need to step it up, you're in the Master's Division now!

From anji on Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 19:33:29 from 75.162.225.186

guilty.....i wear something dirty at least once a week....yikes. cant believe i admitted that!

From Burt on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 17:59:26 from 184.98.222.140

You guys. It's not like I had run it, sweated in it, and then wore it again. I just wore it lounging around the house all day. :P

Total Distance
2.76

I just realized I ran less than three.  I thought it would be closer.  I took a slightly different route thinking the loop would get me to three.  Then I accidently stopped my GPS in the middle.  I couldn't go back, or I don't know how to go back, and look to see how much I'd gone.  Bummer.  I used to tell my friend that anything less than three was a waste of my time.  So I don't like that number up there.

Anyway, it was late.  Like 10:30pm.  I don't like running anymore when people can see me.  But today at church (I'm writing this entry the day after I ran) someone said they saw me.  Grrr!!  He actually lives right across the street from the park where the magic water fountain is located.  So, there's the canal, on the east side of that is the MWF, then east of that is the park.  The park is a big retention basin where the Latino population likes to play soccer on Sundays.  Did I offend anyone by saying Latino?  Anyway, it's about 20 feet deep.  I ran through it to cut to the MWF/canal.  It was freaking cold down there.  What the heck?  I'm glad my entire run wasn't that cold. 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.76
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 18:01:31 from 174.23.134.136

what the heck?

From Burt on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 18:02:05 from 184.98.222.140

Watch your mouth, allie.

From Tracy on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 18:14:39 from 50.103.252.199

New blog entry from Burt McCumber!

Maybe try running at 3 a.m. Then only the weirdos will see you running.

From Burt on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 18:43:28 from 184.98.222.140

I'm still on the blog?

From Neasts on Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 21:40:19 from 71.213.44.145

I'm assuming the pond was empty at the time?

From SlowJoe on Mon, Jan 13, 2014 at 13:29:56 from 168.215.171.129

I saw you too. I always see you. Always.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 14, 2014 at 00:09:31 from 184.98.222.140

Yes Neasts. It never rains in Arizona.

Joe - weirdo.

Total Distance
3.02

Three unwasted miles.  36º may have been a little too cool for shorts and a T-shirt, but what are you gonna do?  I was watching my GPS so I could stop right at 3 miles.  It got to 2.97, 2.98, 2.99, then skipped right to 3.02.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 3.02
Weight: 500.00
Comments
From Tracy on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 13:06:58 from 70.194.132.56

How is it possible that it was 36 degrees in AZ? Also, where is your blog entry for today? I'd like to comment on it please.

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 13:18:15 from 184.98.222.140

It's possible Tracers. It's possible. My blog entry for today is now up.

Total Distance
3.00

Two days in a row. Whuuuuuttt???  My playlist started out kinda weak but ended on a high note with Ozzy's No More Tears.  Not literally a high note.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 3.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Wed, Jan 15, 2014 at 19:06:27 from 66.69.93.8

I keep telling you not to start your run with The Best of the Partridge Family Christmas Special, 17th edition...

From Burt on Wed, Jan 15, 2014 at 19:25:16 from 70.166.99.57

How would that be weak?

I'm sleeping, and right in the middle of a good dream, like all at once I wake up, from something that keeps knocking at my brain...

Total Distance
6.10

At first I was a little disappointed that I didn't get out earlier to run.  But I needed the rest.  I've been a tad under the weather lately.  And....it was a bit chilly.  So the warmer, the better.  And...I had the runs.  I thought I got it all out earlier.  But good thing I didn't leave the house before round two.

So I drove to Usery Pass.  I brought some Shot Bloks and some orange HEED.  I wasn't sure how many scoops to put in my water bottle, so I put two spoonfuls.  I started my ascent.  I also started wheezing.  Not too bad, though.  At mile 1.2 I pulled off behind a Palo Verde to make a wee wee.  I also stretched out and took a Shot Blok.  Right when I took off, a cyclist caught up to me.  He was riding on the other side of the road, but our paces were about the same.  I stayed with him for about a quarter mile.  (He was going super slow.)  I wondered if I'd be able to stay with him all the way to the top.  But he pulled away.  And I was left all alone.  At mile 2.6 I stopped again to blow my nose.  I stretched and took another Shot Blok.  I thought I had my GPS set to autopause when I stopped, but I guess not.  Anyway, it was at this point that I decided to only go 6 miles.  Typically I run to the top, or beyond, and it's a 7.3 mile run if I turn around at the top.  But since I haven't run more than 3 miles in forever, I didn't think it would be wise to try to more than double up what I'm used to.

I turned around a little after 3 miles and paused for one quick stretch.  Then I headed down at a stronger pace.  When I got to mile 4 I decided to accelerate the pace for a mile.  For the first time in forever I ran a mile in under a 9 min. pace.  Then I took it easy the last mile and cruised in.  My legs were tired, but my breathing was good.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 6.10
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 13:26:16 from 70.194.132.56

Well, the entry starts with a little TMI. Despite that, sounds like it was the kind of run that leaves you feeling good about running (but not about the runs). Good job on the miles.

Go for 4 runs next week!!

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 13:54:30 from 184.98.222.140

So, A-? A?

From SlowJoe on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 15:58:19 from 166.147.72.26

Nice! Is this the mountain where you found the money one time?

Round 2 has saved me numerous times...A+

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 16:06:32 from 184.98.222.140

No. That was in Kingman. Thanks for the well deserved grade.

From Tara on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 17:01:19 from 75.169.143.239

Very nice! Nice job getting out. Nice miles! Nice job. Nice pace and nice job sticking with the biker for a bit. Nice job getting out. You are nice!

From Rye on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 17:06:45 from 97.121.8.253

Nicely done.

From Tara on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 17:08:08 from 75.169.143.239

Be more original, Ryan.

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 17:11:41 from 184.98.222.140

Tar Tar - What's your favorite city in France?

Rye - What Tar Tar said.

From Tara on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 18:20:05 from 75.169.143.239

Ma ville preferee est Nice! J'aime le plages! (Not sure if "Beaches" is masculine or feminine, but I think it's masculine.) Thanks for asking! You're nice and so is France this time of year. Aller pour visiter et mange le chacolat! Mmmmm:)

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 18:30:29 from 184.98.222.140

vous ordonnez

From The Quiet Pirate on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 22:03:23 from 184.3.231.210

Running, runs, pee, snot. You've covered it all! Next week, see you throw in a little stomach bile on that 4th run. That would be nice. A for effort, A for not messing in your pants, A+ for best story of the week.

From Burt on Sat, Jan 18, 2014 at 22:07:08 from 184.98.222.140

Thanks Cat O'mally

Total Distance
3.00

I went out after dinner, which I hate doing, but I didn't eat a lot, so it was good.  I'm very excited to meet another blogger soon.  She hasn't blogged in over two years, though :(

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 10:07:08 from 50.103.252.199

Your the king of the bloggers! Who ya meeting?

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:08:55 from 71.216.109.214

I'll give you a hint. She has real nice legs.

From Rob on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:19:40 from 63.235.131.194

That's like everyone on this blog.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:24:00 from 71.216.109.214

That's true. Ok, another hint. She starred in the Wizard of Oz.

From Tracy on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:31:37 from 70.194.136.155

Well I was going to guess Adele, but I don't know if the last comment fits her.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:34:18 from 71.216.109.214

Well, if you have cookies for legs, that's pretty nice.

It's auntieem!

From Tracy on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:39:09 from 50.103.252.199

All right, that makes sense, though "starred in" is a little misleading. Do you get to run with her?

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 12:16:59 from 71.216.109.214

I'm not sure if I'll have a chance, but we'll talk about it tonight. She's doing the Coldwater Rumble 100 mile race this Saturday.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 13:10:22 from 75.169.143.239

You're meeting Bonnie!

From allie on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:12:44 from 174.23.134.136

i guessed on the first try, ftr.

From allie on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:13:44 from 174.23.134.136

btw, your joke you left on my blog...huh? what's funny? ok.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:21:00 from 184.98.222.140

Tara - I've already met Bonnie. And her legs do go all the way to the floor.

allie - I feel that you're trying to send a subliminal message to me with that 'ok.'

Total Distance
0.00

I did not run today, but I did add another blogger to the List of Bloggers I've Met in Real Life.  Auntieem is in town to run the Coldwater Rumble 100 mile race this weekend.  Everyone wish her good luck.  She's been training hard.  We went to the Rainforest Cafe with my wife and my daughter, Emily.  Emily got some sensory overload with all the noises of the animals in the rainforest.  But Kelly loved her, and I'm glad she didn't kidnap her which I thought she might :)

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rye on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:41:55 from 97.121.63.169

You're such a party animal.

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:43:28 from 184.98.222.140

You'll be on the list soon Rye. Then I'll show you how to really party. Two Sunday Schools!

From Rye on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:45:19 from 97.121.63.169

Wow.....can't hardly wait..... Do you guys teach the same doctrine in Arizona?

From Burt on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 21:56:32 from 184.98.222.140

No. Ours is the true doctrine.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 22:05:27 from 75.169.143.239

Burt, you look like a nice person, not as creepy as I've envisioned you to be. I feel like we're fighting.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 22:06:33 from 75.169.143.239

Oh, and go auntieem!!:)

From Burt on Wed, Jan 22, 2014 at 06:48:52 from 184.98.222.140

What does a creepy person look like anyway? Nervous? Sweaty? Glasses? Or handsome like Wesemann?

From Tracy on Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 07:11:56 from 50.103.252.199

Good luck auntieem! And good luck Burt in your quest to be King of the Bloggers!

From Burt on Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 07:17:11 from 184.98.222.140

What would a king be without a peasant? Luckily, I have Tara.

From Tara on Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 20:35:38 from 75.169.136.226

Growing up, my nickname was "Rat." Never knew why.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1505308145576&set=a.1532437303788.74046.1020431924&type=3&theater

Total Distance
3.00

I got up earlier than I usually do because I have a campout with the scouts this afternoon.  I thought it would be cold, so I put on sweat pants and a long sleeve tech.  Boy was I wrong.  I ran by the magic water fountain and there was a weirdo standing by it.  I'm pretty sure I freaked him out because he spun around real quick when I blasted by him with my music playing.  He probably just woke up from sleeping on the bench next to it.  Weirdo.
 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rob on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 13:39:56 from 63.235.131.194

Are you in China?

From Burt on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 13:41:12 from 71.216.109.214

No Rob. Why would you ask something like that?

From Rob on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 14:08:21 from 63.235.131.194

Cause it's still Friday here in America.

From Burt on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 14:12:42 from 71.216.109.214

What the...???? Oh freak! I can't let anybody else see this! It will ruin me!!!

From Rob on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 14:15:02 from 63.235.131.194

Go with the China thing.

From Tara on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 17:31:08 from 75.169.136.226

Were you running with a boom box on your shoulder?

From Tracy on Fri, Jan 24, 2014 at 17:37:00 from 50.103.252.199

I once jumped ahead a whole week. I think a day is okay. Chalk it up to wishful thinking. Good job getting up and out.

From Burt on Sat, Jan 25, 2014 at 18:48:32 from 71.35.49.125

Tara - practically. It was my Droid HTC6435LVW (yes, I do have that memorized.) That thing is huge! I got it so I could watch Netflix all day at work.

Tracy - Jumped ahead on the blog or did you actually jump ahead in time a week? I need to know. Having friends that can time travel would be useful.

From Tracy on Sat, Jan 25, 2014 at 19:04:09 from 50.103.252.199

I can time travel. It's both a blessing and a curse.

From Burt on Sat, Jan 25, 2014 at 19:07:31 from 71.35.49.125

Fantastic! Now shut up so I can finish reading Joe's race report!

From Burt on Sat, Jan 25, 2014 at 19:07:41 from 71.35.49.125

Sorry. That was mean.

From Tracy on Sat, Jan 25, 2014 at 19:08:53 from 50.103.252.199

Maybe you could travel back in time and not say that.

Total Distance
4.00

My first mile was a tad faster than what my normal pace has been lately, which made my remaining miles slower than my normal pace.  It seems there are quite a few bloggers coming in for the Phoenix Marathon this March.  I need to lose some weight before then because it's all about image.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 4.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Mon, Jan 27, 2014 at 09:16:03 from 76.31.9.237

So they're all invited to your house for a pasta dinner?

From Rob on Mon, Jan 27, 2014 at 09:17:55 from 63.235.131.194

Just get yourself some Spanx, that's what all the movie stars wear before going out in public.

From Burt on Mon, Jan 27, 2014 at 09:20:27 from 71.216.109.214

Flat - Well, I invited everyone last year and nobody came :( But I do have a very special blogger that will be staying the night at my house along with his son.

Rob - I could borrow my wife's.

From Tara on Tue, Jan 28, 2014 at 17:07:38 from 75.169.143.62

It is all about image.

Spanks is only good if worn no longer than 3 hours at a time. Church is the threshold.

I did try on a Spanx swim suit the other day. Not good.

From The Quiet Pirate on Wed, Jan 29, 2014 at 19:26:30 from 184.3.231.210

I-M-A-G-E-lightbulb

Saw lady liberty last weekend and thought of you.

From Burt on Thu, Jan 30, 2014 at 11:19:02 from 71.216.109.214

Awesome QP! I'm glad it wasn't the possum poop that made you think about me.

Total Distance
5.40

Got to bed early last night, so I had no problem getting out of bed at 5am.  I got ready to go and headed out.  My Pandora playlist wasn't great.  I mean, I liked all the songs, but I really want to hear 80's hairbands while I'm running.  Some of the stuff this morning was a little too modern, like Blackened Blue Eyes by the Charlatans.  I kept thinking that it would get better because there are only so many 80's hair band songs without swears.  It finally did on the last song which was If You Don't Like it by Cinderella.

At precisely 5:47am I ran by a bus stop.  The bus stop is next to a Starbucks.  A lady was sitting down.  She had a coffee.  The smell was very strong.  She took a long sip.  I said, "Good morning."  She continued her sip and said, "Good morning."  I was nearly 50 feet away by then.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 5.40
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Thu, Jan 30, 2014 at 20:53:41 from 50.103.252.199

I like running to Prince and Michael Jackson myself. What, no details of your rash?

From Burt on Thu, Jan 30, 2014 at 21:10:21 from 70.209.69.211

I posted a picture earlier, but it got censored.

Total Distance
3.07

I considered this a recovery run, although really I was running the same pace I was yesterday.  But it was for a shorter distance, so that counts, right?

At precisely 6:01am I ran by the MWF and there was another weird guy sitting on the bench.  I don't know if it was the same guy as last time.  But I told him good morning.  He replied back with a good morning, but he didn't sound weird.  He sounded normal.  That's so weird.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.07
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rob on Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 09:04:01 from 63.235.131.194

Funny, I just read his blog and he had a very similar story.

From Burt on Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 10:59:22 from 71.216.109.214

You can't believe everything you hear on the internet.

From DaleG on Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 19:12:22 from 152.216.11.5

It's weird that there was a weird guy that sounded normal.

Nice job getting in some running.

From Tara on Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 22:34:51 from 75.169.143.62

Nice job getting out the past few days!

From Burt on Sat, Feb 01, 2014 at 22:34:39 from 71.37.220.170

Dale - Exactly! Weird!

Tara - thanks.

From Burt on Sat, Feb 01, 2014 at 22:40:26 from 71.37.220.170

BTW, I know both of you have dropped me off your Favorite's List, but no hard feelings.

From DaleG on Sun, Feb 02, 2014 at 01:04:25 from 50.168.232.191

It was an accident, I swear.

From DaleG on Sun, Feb 02, 2014 at 01:09:16 from 50.168.232.191

I put you back on my favorites list. Amazing what guilt can do

From Burt on Sun, Feb 02, 2014 at 01:26:39 from 71.37.220.170

Guilt? I said no hard feelings.

From Tara on Sun, Feb 02, 2014 at 05:41:37 from 70.193.193.28

And Facebook. We're on a break, remember? Can't have the temptations.

From Burt on Sun, Feb 02, 2014 at 10:27:55 from 71.37.220.170

Really? I take back the no hard feelings.

Total Distance
0.00

Today is Emily's birthday.

So, I stayed home from work yesterday because I was sick.  Maybe I'm getting pneumonia or something.  I also have been trying to lose weight for the whole month of January by being on a diet.  I lost about 7 lbs., but it seems like it's not coming off as fast as it used to.  I think I'm going through "the change."  So I mentioned to my wife that I should maybe use some fat burners.  She got me a bottle of Hydroxycut.  The bad thing is, it says that one pill has the same amount of caffeine as two cups of coffee.  You're looking at a guy who maybe drinks a Barq's Root Beer once every two years.  But I took the recommended dosage yesterday; one pill at 6:15am, one pill at 11:30 am, and one pill at 5:30pm.  I was up until 4am this morning!  I think it was a combination of the caffeine and being sick.  Anybody have any thoughts on this?

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 20:39:01 from 50.103.252.199

Happy birthday, Emily! Love the picture.

I have no thoughts about the hydroxycut, but it sounds scary. Also, if you are going through "the change," don't let them put you on estrogen. It might solve the problem with hot flashes and what not, but you could get estrogen-dependent breast cancer.

Oh, yeah. And I hope you feel better soon.

From DaleG on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 20:47:38 from 152.216.11.5

Happy Birthday to Emily!

As for hydroxycut, I wouldn't recommend using it, especially if you rarely have caffeine. Or at least skip the last dose at 5:30 pm.

The weight will come off, just be patient. That's what I keep telling myself.

From Burt on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 22:58:12 from 71.37.220.170

I did skip the 5:30pm dosage and plan on doing that. I already feel better :)

From DaleG on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 23:21:36 from 152.216.11.5

Cool

From Steve Piccolo on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 23:34:55 from 155.101.151.246

Happy birthday to Emily! My vote is to stay with running and watching the calories.

From SlowJoe on Wed, Feb 05, 2014 at 18:51:10 from 66.69.93.8

Cute picture! Kids are always happy when cake is involved. Happy birthday to Emily.

Tracy beat me to the punch on my comment idea, and I can't top it, so I guess I will leave it there. Disappointed to only be able to say positive things, but I'll be back...

From Rob on Fri, Feb 07, 2014 at 13:54:29 from 63.235.131.194

Eat the whole cake with the hydroxycut, that way it dilutes the effects of the caffeine, then as soon as you are finished with the cake, and eating the extra icing go sprint as hard as you can for 1 mile, then problem solved.

Hope that helps.

From Burt on Fri, Feb 07, 2014 at 15:59:00 from 71.216.109.214

Rob - I can never tell if you're joking. Then I remember, Rob never jokes. I will take your advice!

From The Quiet Pirate on Sun, Feb 09, 2014 at 18:39:20 from 184.3.231.210

I had no idea you could get that much caffeine in a pill dose. I could save hundreds of dollars on diet coke.

Emily is so cute. I love the polka dot candle and the princess plate. I want a princess plate. Is there a pirate princess I don't know about? Other than me?

Glad you're feeling better.

From Tara on Wed, Feb 12, 2014 at 10:22:55 from 75.169.138.236

It's Tara.

Happy Birthday to your cute girl:)

Because we're fake friends,I think you should know that it sounds like a dangerous, short term fix without lasting effects, except on your health. Also, "the change" sounds just as scary. Let me know when your voice drops.

PS. My tone is completely nice in this message, since I know it can be hard to tell in writing. I'm always nice.

From Rob on Fri, Feb 14, 2014 at 10:14:53 from 63.235.131.194

I'm bored with this blog entry. Please update!

From Rhett on Fri, Feb 14, 2014 at 14:16:58 from 24.121.0.8

You probably would get the same benefits of the hydroxycut by drinking a diet Dew every time you got hungry and wouldn't get quite as messed up by it.

From rAtTLeTrAp on Sun, Feb 16, 2014 at 07:37:59 from 70.199.130.13

Double the hydroxycut and wash 'em down with barqs or some black coffee. Throw away your car keys and run to work everyday.

PS You have the cutest kid on the planet! :)

From Burt on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 15:09:49 from 71.216.109.214

QP - You are a princess. Of death. I actually am not feeling better, but thanks for thinking I was.

Tara - you are the meanest person in the world. Behind you is Kim-Jong-il.

Rob - Will you be my neighbor in Farmville?

Rhett - hold on. I need to go re-read the Word of Wisdom.

RT - She really is the cutest :)

From Rob on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 19:23:43 from 204.15.86.95

Crossing social media platforms is not aloud Burt.

Did I get my point across or do people just think I hate FarmVille?

From Steve Piccolo on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 19:33:52 from 198.217.127.216

Kim jong il is dead.

Total Distance
1.90

FAIL.  So Tuesday I went to the doctor to find out why I've been sick for a month now.  I was diagnosed with allergies.  Allergies?  Hmm, I guess that means I can run.  Nope.  I got a mile and a quarter in and had to stop.  I couldn't catch my breath.  So I walk/jogged the rest of the way home.  I now know that I have bronchitis.  So I'm on a low grade steroid, antibiotics, and cough syrup.  I think I'm feeling better.  At least sleeping's not such a chore.  (Writing this of Feb. 18th)

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 1.90
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 06:40:30 from 76.31.9.237

Sounds like you are working too hard and "running" in about 6 different directions. But really no choice, right?

From Burt on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 13:39:37 from 71.216.109.214

That is correct.

From SlowJoe on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 18:46:31 from 66.69.93.8

Ouch, bronchitis. I am just getting over a bout with bubonic plague, so I feel your pain. Hope you are better soon.

From Nan on Wed, Feb 19, 2014 at 22:23:32 from 76.120.73.22

Oh man. Sorry to hear about your sickness. Aaron was sick all of January with the flu turned pnemonia. No fun. And he still can't run very far 'cause his lungs are so weak. Sounds like you can relate. Ugh.

Hang in there 'ol buddy.

From artichoke on Mon, Feb 24, 2014 at 22:04:00 from 174.52.123.59

Get better, Burt! The roads need you!

From Scott Wesemann on Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 10:29:38 from 66.232.64.4

Druggy.

Race: 2014 Ragnar Del Sol (17.4 Miles) 04:03:36
Total Distance
17.40

This was my 17th Ragnar.  Let's never talk about this one again.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 17.40
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 12:06:55 from 161.38.221.168

...throw the key away.

From ben on Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 19:53:48 from 209.33.248.15

What can I say?

From Burt on Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 20:57:38 from 71.223.117.24

shhhh...(as I hold my finger against your lip)

From ben on Wed, Feb 26, 2014 at 09:09:43 from 209.33.248.15

I'm glad I wasn't in the van. :)

From Nan on Wed, Feb 26, 2014 at 14:51:32 from 76.120.73.22

That bad huh?

From Tara on Wed, Feb 26, 2014 at 15:05:41 from 75.169.142.34

Ooo, now I want the details.

From JD on Wed, Feb 26, 2014 at 15:18:23 from 70.96.78.188

you know what they say: "18th time's a charm."

From Rob on Thu, Feb 27, 2014 at 09:44:14 from 63.235.131.194

Very inspiring race report. I had tears in my eyes.

From Burt on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 15:29:51 from 71.223.117.24

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Ragnar and bronchitis don't mix. At least I covered all my miles though. Very, very slowly.

Total Distance
0.00

I had a couple of bloggers stay at my house for the Phoenix Half Marathon.  I'd never met them before, but they weren't crazy. 

Yes they were.  It was nice to meet the creator of the blog finally in real life.  He's quite pleasant.  His son Benjamin is a great kid. 
 

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From steve ash on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 15:00:31 from 67.161.243.240

Yes, they are good guys and would trust them with anything.

Except my car..

From Burt on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 15:02:55 from 71.223.117.24

Sounds like there's a story behind that one :)

From Tara on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 16:57:34 from 75.169.137.144

"Yes they are" hahaha. Nice guys for sure! You look very proud Burt. Fun to use to blog to network. Love the Frb community!

From Burt on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 16:59:42 from 71.223.117.24

Thanks, person.

From Burt on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 16:59:53 from 71.223.117.24

By proud, do you mean fat?

From Tara on Sat, Mar 01, 2014 at 17:04:11 from 75.169.137.144

No, proud.

From allie on Sun, Mar 02, 2014 at 11:56:17 from 65.130.189.75

your list. i passed out. now i'm crying.

From Burt on Sun, Mar 02, 2014 at 11:59:45 from 71.223.117.24

By golly, it's been like that for a month! Presta atencion!

From Tracy on Sun, Mar 02, 2014 at 19:28:47 from 50.103.252.199

Cool!

From Rhett on Sun, Mar 02, 2014 at 20:02:24 from 199.117.154.54

Burt, it was fun to see you at the Phoenix Marathon expo. I hope your back starts healing soon.

From Burt on Sun, Mar 02, 2014 at 20:14:38 from 71.223.117.24

Thanks Rhett. It feels better today than it did at the expo. But I probably won't even think about running for the next month as we'll be moving.

From allie on Mon, Mar 03, 2014 at 11:02:46 from 65.130.189.75

From Jake K on Wed, Mar 05, 2014 at 09:07:49 from 199.190.170.22

Hey Burt- thanks for coming out and cheering on Saturday!

From Rob on Wed, Mar 05, 2014 at 10:03:15 from 63.235.131.194

Well, Jake explained why Burt was there. Burt's a sucker for good race T's.

From DaleG on Fri, Mar 07, 2014 at 22:01:42 from 152.216.11.5

You forgot to pick up my wife from the airport. She ended up sleeping on a bench near a water fountain that looked magical.

Where are you moving to?

From Burt on Mon, Mar 10, 2014 at 15:09:41 from 71.216.109.214

Always a pleasure to see you Jake.

Rob - I believe this is the 2nd marathon I've backed out of but still collected the shirt for :)

Dale - I didn't realized your wife was running it again. We're just moving a couple of miles away from where we are now.

From Tara on Tue, Mar 18, 2014 at 18:31:00 from 50.186.87.12

When are you going to run again?

From Burt on Tue, Mar 18, 2014 at 19:15:50 from 71.223.117.24

After I move.

Total Distance
0.00

No running to report.  But I did quit my day job this week.  So hopefully that will free some time up for me to lace 'em up again.

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 21:27:46 from 50.103.224.19

Good luck with that. What are you going to do? I saw your post on Facebook, but didn't read to see more detail. Not because I'm not interested. Just not that into Facebook.

From Burt on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 22:11:55 from 97.117.247.87

I've been doing Grading and Drainage plans for a couple of years now on the side. I'm going to do them full time.

From Burt on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 22:12:27 from 97.117.247.87

Also, I just moved, so I'll need to find some new routes to run.

From Nan on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 08:32:45 from 76.120.73.22

Woah, lots of changes for you! Best wishes on turning over some new leafs and finding some new paths.

From allie on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 10:52:04 from 174.27.220.148

good luck, burt and ginger.

From Burt on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 13:01:22 from 184.101.97.97

Nan - I do believe I detect a dual meaning in your comment :)

allie - I have no idea what you're talking about.

Total Distance
1.93

I have running to report.  It was real slow and I still have quite a bit of tightness in my chest.  Residual bronchitis?  Anyway, I'm in a new neighborhood, so I found a route on Google maps that appeared to be close to 2 miles.  It ended up being just a tad shy of 2.  For part of it, I ran along the east side of the RWCD Main Canal, from whence I just quit.  I did text my old boss and told him there was a shopping cart in the canal.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 1.93
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From ACorn on Sat, Mar 29, 2014 at 10:07:05 from 75.169.59.173

I'm back to pester you. Nice trot around the new hood! Congrats on the new gig! You're currently beating me in the yearly mileage department.

From Burt on Mon, Mar 31, 2014 at 14:04:56 from 184.101.112.24

Adam!!! You might not want to admit that I'm beating you. Everyone knows I suck. Welcome back.

Total Distance
4.20

Last night was not a good night.  I ended up kicking my son's girlfriend out of the house at 2am.  That was some major drama.  I don't even think I got more than 4 hours of sleep.  Then this morning we had to go put some of the screens on the old house that we just had rebuilt (the screens were rebuilt, not the house.)  Two of them weren't wide enough so we had to take them back.  Then, we had to meet the carpet cleaning guy at 9am because we had another guy scheduled at 2pm yesterday, but he ended up being a jerk and wanting to overcharge us (which we were going to pay), but he decided to just leave.  My wife had to leave at 9:45am to get to work, so I had her just leave me there so I could pay the (more expensive) carpet guy and run to the new home after.  Our landlords showed up, and I'm sure they wanted to do stuff, but oh well.  We're supposed to do the final walk through at 3pm.  I'm hopeful we'll get our deposit back.  I think it looks pretty good.  Better than when we got there.  We'll see how nitpicky they are.  They're real good friends with the, I'd like to call him a name, but I won't, across the street.  They have him come over and take pictures of our lawn when it's not mowed.  Our backyard lawn.  He actually opens our back gate, comes in, and takes pictures.  Pretty sure that's not legal.  Anyway, his son-in-law died last night.  Not sure how.  I think he might've killed himself.  That's why I'm refraining from calling him names.  So it was about 10:40am when the carpet guy finished and I took off.  It was 74°.  Felt pretty warm.  I carried a water bottle in one hand and my phone in the other.  I just trotted along.  Still don't have full lung capacity yet. 

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 4.20
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Thu, Apr 03, 2014 at 13:07:10 from 107.77.66.16

Wow what a day. Did you ever consider getting a killer pit bull for the backyard? What a creep (I don't mind calling people names). Let me know if you need anyone eliminated, my prices are reasonable.

From ACorn on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:04:51 from 75.169.59.173

Too much drama for me. Nice run!

From Burt on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:15:46 from 174.17.243.238

Joe - I need a killer pitbull in my back yard eliminated. How much do you charge?

Acorndogelius - I'm just trying to stay ahead of you on the year :)

From Tracy on Sun, Apr 06, 2014 at 06:06:20 from 50.103.224.19

A day in the life of Burt. All that and a run. You're the man.

Total Distance
1.96

Running in my Saucony's still.  They're the only pair of shoes I have unpacked.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 1.96
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:22:08 from 174.27.220.148

i can hear the blog. for real this time.

From Burt on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:28:31 from 174.17.243.238

I didn't say anything.

From allie on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:30:20 from 174.27.220.148

it's a noah ad on autoplay. you can't hear it?

From Burt on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:34:23 from 174.17.243.238

Movie night awaits.

From ACorn on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:37:54 from 75.169.59.173

Captain America > Noah

From Tara on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:49:18 from 50.186.87.12

Good job getting out!

Hi Allie.

From allie on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 10:51:39 from 174.27.220.148

santa claus > captain america > noah > alfred the great

From Burt on Fri, Apr 04, 2014 at 15:16:01 from 174.17.243.238

Grape Nuts Original and Grape Nuts Fit. What's your mountain?

From artichoke on Tue, Apr 08, 2014 at 08:56:24 from 216.49.181.254

Glad you're back at it and feeling a bit better, Burt. Good luck with your running goals this year.

Total Distance
2.58

I'm saddened by the death of the Ultimate Warrior.  But I'm happy he was inducted into the Hall of Fame this Sunday before he passed.  Grieve with me.
 

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.58
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From ACorn on Wed, Apr 09, 2014 at 16:56:41 from 75.169.59.173

I am happy to see that someone else is distraught about the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Heroes get remembered but legends never die.

From Burt on Wed, Apr 09, 2014 at 16:58:10 from 97.117.241.130

Did a wise man once say that? :)

From Tara on Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 10:40:45 from 70.208.2.220

http://youtu.be/MNFcBXaVIx8

From Burt on Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 20:42:27 from 184.101.216.212

I liked it better the first way. Sounds like something Warrior would have said.

Total Distance
2.60

Feels like things are coming back together.  Slowly butt Shirley.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.60
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Sat, Apr 12, 2014 at 16:05:50 from 66.69.93.8

I'm glad things are coming together, but don't call me Shirley.

From Burt on Sat, Apr 12, 2014 at 16:27:49 from 184.101.217.225

Hey buddy, good luck at Boston.

From allie on Sat, Apr 12, 2014 at 21:48:43 from 174.23.138.231

we have clearance, clarence.

From The Quiet Pirate on Sun, Apr 13, 2014 at 09:29:07 from 184.3.231.210

How's the business coming along? And hey, SlowJoe, I'm pretty sure he was talking to me.

From Burt on Mon, Apr 14, 2014 at 11:46:39 from 174.26.199.95

The business is none of ya' bid'ness. JK! It's going good so far. See ya later, Lavern and Shirley.

From Burt on Mon, Apr 14, 2014 at 11:51:25 from 174.26.199.95

I have clearance on your facebook, allie.

Total Distance
3.93

I'm slow.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 3.93
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.68

I haven't taken Ginger on any walks or runs since we've moved.  Somewhere in an unpacked box is a leash, a leash that I use to take her on walks.  And runs.  Today I decided to get creative and find something to tether her up with.  I knew of the perfect belt for the job.  Somewhere in an unpacked box is a belt, a belt that I use for holding up my pants, and a belt that is perfect.  So, I found my traveling bag and I used the strap.

I took her behind the house to the East Maricopa Floodway.  I let her run loose until we approached people or other dogs.  A lot of people like to walk their dogs around here.  We ran south.  There is a single trail that runs down the middle of the Floodway.  As we'd approach people, I'd move over and run in the grass.  This meant getting a bunch of cattails in my socks.  We ran down to Main Street, crossed the Floodway, and got on the east maintenance road of the RWCD Main Canal.  That's when Ginger decided to check out the Canal.  She went down the bank and took a few laps of water.  Then she decided to swim a few laps.  The problem was, she was right next to the radial gate and the suction was pulling her toward it.  I got on the catwalk, layed down, reached and grabbed the travel bag strap, and pulled her out.  Then we ran home, but I had to take it easy with her because she was semi-choking.  Probably her collar is too tight.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.68
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 12:46:05 from 161.38.221.168

meow.

From Burt on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 15:03:53 from 184.101.194.1

gobble gobble

From Kam on Wed, Apr 16, 2014 at 11:20:33 from 68.66.163.179

hiya, burt. Are you new to the blog? Welcome!

From Burt on Wed, Apr 16, 2014 at 11:52:39 from 174.17.222.198

Ha! I knew I was gnu to the blog. Yak! Thanks for the welcome. I hope to meet lots of cool people on the blog. Maybe some of them will challenge me to a nice round of Words with Friends. Maybe some of them will win. But I doubt it.

Total Distance
3.74

I do have to say, people are real friendly in this new neighborhood.  It's hard to hate everyone.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 3.74
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Thu, Apr 17, 2014 at 20:30:49 from 50.103.224.19

Do they give you high fives every time you pass?

From Burt on Thu, Apr 17, 2014 at 21:21:18 from 174.17.249.170

They're not that friendly. They're old. I guess, now that I'm 40, I'm old, too. But I imagine many of them will be going north for the summer.

From SlowJoe on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 16:48:48 from 66.69.93.8

Congratulations on your move to a retirement community! I need to come visit now...I'll be over at 4pm sharp for dinner.

From Burt on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 17:02:17 from 71.223.45.64

Make sure you bring super strenght polydent for your dentures. We're having rice pudding.

From Tracy on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 19:11:59 from 50.103.224.19

And don't forget to bring the Depends.

From Burt on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 19:25:46 from 71.223.45.64

No need. We have the soft cushy chairs with the holes in the middle. At least, I hope we do.

Total Distance
2.96

This was a fundraiser run for the mother of the lady that works at the boot camp my wife used to go to.  I ran pretty hard, but it was super slow.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.96
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 08:16:41 from 70.208.19.30

Looks who's running again! Yes.

From Burt on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 13:00:49 from 174.17.213.101

Thanks. And happy Easter.

From ACorn on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 15:16:19 from 71.213.41.74

If you're going to run slow you should at least run easy. When people run slow and hard it just looks weird. Happy Easter!

From The Quiet Pirate on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 16:04:56 from 184.3.231.210

Happy Easter Burt.

From Burt on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 19:21:23 from 184.101.209.178

Corndogelius - I don't care what anybody thinks about me. It hurts my feelings that you'd say that. I guess I only care what you think about me.

QP - thanks for keeping it real.

From ACorn on Sun, Apr 20, 2014 at 20:21:40 from 71.213.41.74

In that case, I think you're awesome and a great runner and blogger. Keep it up!

From Tara on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 19:01:51 from 50.186.87.12

Acorn- Burt told me that his feelings really weren't hurt by your comment. He can act like such a baby sometimes.

From ACorn on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 19:05:19 from 71.213.41.74

Tara,

Just between you and me, Burt is a bit of a drama queen. He's definitely not invited to my birthday party this year.

From Tara on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 19:10:42 from 50.186.87.12

Acorn- I'm glad we can keep that between us:D

From Burt on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 19:24:43 from 71.223.35.157

I heard the blog!! Your birthday's over. And speaking of over, you have ovarian cancer. You won't make it to your next birthday. Go tell your family.

From Tara on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 19:34:15 from 50.186.87.12

I sent that last message for email only, now it's a goner!

From allie on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 21:55:09 from 174.27.221.249

From Burt on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 21:55:44 from 71.223.35.157

That's a goner, allie.

From DaleG on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 22:20:57 from 152.216.11.5

Howdy Burt. how's the new homestead?

From Burt on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 22:26:44 from 71.223.35.157

Dale, Dale, Dale. It's great :) It's not without its problems. But that's ok :)

Total Distance
2.62

I was going to do more, but decided I would do this today and tomorrow.  Now that I'm typing this, I'm realizing that today is Wednesday.  I should do it Friday, too.  Or maybe just Friday and do 4 tomorrow.  I'm doing a mud run Saturday with one of my daughters and two of my sister's-in-law.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.62
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 10:11:01 from 174.27.221.249

passers-by.

From Burt on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 10:13:04 from 97.117.224.35

in the night? exchanging glances?

From SlowJoe on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 18:26:40 from 66.69.93.8

I think it's sisters'-in-laws's'

From Burt on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 18:28:45 from 71.223.35.157

You know, you're right.

From Tara on Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 18:58:34 from 50.186.87.12

Sister-in-lawses

" I went to my sister-in-lawses house."

Yes, that's right.

Passerz-bye.

Everything I know, I learned from Burt.

Total Distance
3.91

My legs were sore when I started out.  I guess that made me not be able to run by feel and my first mile was a lot faster than my average lately.  That made the rest of my miles slower than average.  Have a wonderful day, bloggers.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 3.91
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From ACorn on Fri, Apr 25, 2014 at 15:57:38 from 71.213.41.74

Have a grand weekend Burt! Don't forget to wear your compression recovery gear.

From Burt on Fri, Apr 25, 2014 at 21:03:06 from 184.101.208.205

Thanks. I uh, won't forget.

From SlowJoe on Sat, Apr 26, 2014 at 15:38:36 from 66.69.93.8

Interesting theory. I look forward to your dissertation. How did the mud run go?

From Burt on Sat, Apr 26, 2014 at 17:30:55 from 184.101.101.164

It was fine. Thank you.

Race: April Arizona Mudathon (5 Miles) 01:30:00
Total Distance
5.00

There wasn't a whole lot of running going on here, but there was a lot of fun.

My wife's sister, Missy, the blonde one, got 4 free tickets to the Arizona Mudathon, which is held twice a year.  So she invited me, my daughter, Mary, and my wife's other sister, Suzie.  I think there were more people this time.  We got in line for the race about 45 minutes before it started.  It was overcast and a little cold.  We talked to strangers.  We got started in the third wave.  Immediately after they open the corral, there are some tires on the ground that you run through and there are tires hanging from ropes that you have to dodge.  We sprinted to these because once a lot of people get going, the tires really start swinging.  But right after that you have to climb over a stack of tractor tires.  Actually, they probably aren't tractor tires.  Maybe those huge earth movers.  Anyway, Suzie took her earrings off so she wouldn't lose them.  So we ended up being the last people in our group to go over the tire pile.  Then, right after that, there is the first mud pit.  It was about 2 feet deep.  One lady lost her shoe in it.  She ended up finishing the race with only one shoe.

I like this race because it has an abundance of obstacles and mud pits.  After one mile you arrive to the cargo net climb.  The net is draped over a wooden beam about 20 feet high, like a tent.  There was a long line, so we just waited in line.  Some people opted not to do it.  One person cut the line.  That was douchearific, but we didn't pay for the race, so I guess we can't really complain.  So, when it was finally our turn, I let the girls go first.  Nobody had any problems this time.  Except me.  As I was crossing the beam at the top, I got a huge splinter under my nail.  It's still there even as I type this, which makes for a horrible blogging experience.

We kept going, at a snail's pace.  At times I would stop and empty the rocks out of my shoes just to be able to run and catch back up.  And to get the rocks out of my shoes.  There were two 7-foot vertical walls on the course.  We used team work to get everyone over the first time.  I had to boost Suzie up, and then go over to the other side to catch her.  However, the 2nd time I boosted her up and Missy and Mary were supposed to catch her.  I'm not exactly sure what happened, because I was on the other side of the wall, but I'm pretty sure they dropped her.  Anyway, that was it for her and the obstacles.  She finished the 5 miles at least. 

This year I was determined not to let Missy show me up on the monkey bars.  They were pretty slippery when we got there.  I went first and wasn't sure I'd make it because of the slipperiness.  However, I found out that it was just the first three or four that were slippery.  After that, they weren't slippery anymore because everyone had slipped off.  Say slippery one more time, McCumber!  I dare you!  So, I made it.  The trick was in the grunt.  Suzie didn't try.  Mary made it to one.  And then Missy went.  She made it to two.  Haha!  In your face this time, Missy!

There were a few more obstacles and then on to the cargo net/monkey bars.  I could see that nobody was having any luck.  So I got up there and showed them how it was done.  You have to swing your legs up into the net and crawl upside down.  I blew everyone's mind.

Ouch.  It still hurts to type, btw.

A few more obastacles and on to the finish line.  There was supposed to be a mud pit at the finish line.  It was more like quickdry cement.  Holy cow!  What chemical additive did they mix in there to form this peanut butterlike substance?

Now I know what it's like to be in quicksand.  It's not as scary as the movies.  All in all, we had a good time.  Ooh, I forgot to mention that at mile 3 it started to pour.  It made it cold, but even more fun.

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Mon, Apr 28, 2014 at 08:19:05 from 50.186.87.12

That sounds like an absolute, slippery blast!!

From Burt on Mon, Apr 28, 2014 at 08:21:45 from 184.101.107.183

Yes, it was an ASB.

From ACorn on Wed, Apr 30, 2014 at 22:49:40 from 71.213.41.74

My mind was blown while I read your report! Congrats on a successful day minus the splinter.

From SlowJoe on Thu, May 01, 2014 at 04:39:12 from 66.69.93.8

Slippery.

Cool report, Burt. I'm going to go eat some peanut butter now. Great job!

From Burt on Thu, May 01, 2014 at 10:17:32 from 174.26.205.27

ACorn - Success is my middle name. Ok, it's not. But it is my password.

Joe - You're a sick man.

From flatlander on Fri, May 02, 2014 at 12:34:52 from 198.207.244.102

Great report and great pictures, but you shouldn't have let your daughter see all those adults playing in the mud. At least your wife is keeping her distance.

From Burt on Fri, May 02, 2014 at 16:51:45 from 174.17.94.26

I try to expose my daughter to as much debauchery as I can. I think that's the best way for her to learn. Real world experiences.

Total Distance
2.62

The whole idea for me quitting my day job and starting my own company was to free up more time for me to do things like run, study scriptures, be a better dad.  So far, it's been an epic failure.  But I wouldn't have it any other way.  2.62 miles (10% of a marathon) today.  I used RunKeeper to track my mileage.  I like her voice.  I'm pretty sure she's Kira Soltanovich.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.62
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From DaleG on Fri, May 02, 2014 at 19:56:26 from 152.216.11.5

What company did you start? Or are you being a jokester? Good job doing ten percent of a marathon.

From Rhett on Sat, May 03, 2014 at 13:51:08 from 199.117.154.54

If you were dyslexic you ran a whole marathon 26.2 miles. :)

From Burt on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 18:28:18 from 184.101.211.182

Dale - I started my own engineering company. I work downstairs in my house :)

Rhett - I think the way you like.

From SlowJoe on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 18:37:57 from 66.69.93.8

Good luck on the venture, Burt. Kind of exciting! If I knew what you did, and needed an engineer, and lived in Arizona, I would definitely sign up to be a customer.

From DaleG on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 18:41:06 from 50.168.232.191

That's great, Buru. I hope it works out well. I would open up my own company, but I have no skills. Now if I could make a living from eating, I'd be very successful.

From Burt on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 18:42:40 from 184.101.211.182

SlowJoe - That's so nice of you to say. 'though, I know you couldn't afford me.

Dale - I thought you had some sweet num chuck skills and bow hunting skills.

From SlowJoe on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 18:45:09 from 66.69.93.8

Well I never said I would pay you...

From DaleG on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 19:17:55 from 50.168.232.191

Well, I did almost take down Chuck Norris once....he is Chuck Norris after all. He was so impressed with my skills that he took me bow hunting. how did you hear about that?

From Burt on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 19:21:34 from 184.101.211.182

Well, I thought it was folklore. Now I know you're the real deal.

From DaleG on Sun, May 04, 2014 at 20:38:08 from 50.168.232.191

That's right, but It's just between you and me.

Total Distance
3.73

I wasn't feeling great today.  Too much Cinco de Mayo food yesterday.  I was using the RunKeeper app again.  Kira was telling me how slow I was every five minutes.  At the three mile mark I got a phone call which I took.  I started walking.  It was Jeff Wimmer.  He wants me to start an engineering group with him.  Not sure I want to at this point.  He's going to really have to sell me on it.  Anyway, it didn't register the distance that I walked, but I've run this route before, so I knew it was 3.91.

Ok, maybe it 3.73

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 3.73
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From AZDesertmonsoon on Tue, May 06, 2014 at 17:41:42 from 204.17.20.199

I know Jeff Wimmer.

I tried RunKeeper last year and hated it. I kept accidentally turning it off when I tried to look at it.

From Burt on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 08:45:53 from 97.117.255.64

How do you know Jeff? I guess it's a small world in the Church. He was about a year behind me in college. I don't think we had any classes together, but I was in his ward for a while during college.

From SlowJoe on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 14:27:38 from 168.215.171.129

Tell him you'll split the profits down the middle - 60/40.

From Burt on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 15:27:57 from 184.101.192.92

You have a great mind for business, Joe. We could use you in the group. Name your terms.

From AZDesertmonsoon on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 15:34:24 from 204.17.20.199

His sister and my sister were good friends growing up. We may have been in the same single adult ward for a while.

From allie on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 15:39:55 from 65.130.187.133

i was also in jeff's YSA ward for a few years. i called him brother winner and he didn't like it.

just curious what the side effects are for too much CdM food?

From Burt on Wed, May 07, 2014 at 15:45:41 from 184.101.192.92

You want to know the side effects? Come here and I'll show you. But you might not be able to see with you eyes watering so much.

Total Distance
3.73

Well, I'm thinking this actually is 3.73 miles.  Last week I ran this same course and thought it was longer and that it didn't record properly because I walked a portion of it while I got a phone call.  I did get two phone calls today, but they were short and I basically stopped each time.  I'll have to go back and edit the distance on last week's run.

A former co-worker of mine from RWCD used to play this game with me where he would snap a picture, usually of a screw up made by a contractor, out in the District somewhere and ask me where it was.  Today I snapped a picture of a pile of horse poop on the side of the canal and asked him where I was.  He got it right :)
 

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 3.73
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Mon, May 12, 2014 at 20:07:12 from 66.69.93.8

The last time I took a picture of poop, it was when I put that flaming bag on your doorstep. Or was that a dream? Nah, I think it was a dream. Carry on.

From Burt on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 00:07:16 from 174.17.220.220

So, you've never taken a picture of a "prize county fair hog" to show to your wife?

From SlowJoe on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 08:41:35 from 168.215.171.129

Good idea - I'll start a steak-only diet this week and hopefully have some prize winners.

From The Quiet Pirate on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 09:22:25 from 152.26.230.54

ew.Just EW.

From Burt on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 11:47:35 from 174.17.220.220

Whatev' QP! You posted a picture of a decapitated fish on your blog!!

From Tracy on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 15:13:21 from 192.80.111.20

Happy belated blogger-irthday.

From The Quiet Pirate on Wed, May 14, 2014 at 08:49:00 from 152.26.230.54

Touche'

From Burt on Wed, May 14, 2014 at 23:13:31 from 174.17.93.68

Darn! I missed my blogger-birthday again!! Ok, setting a calendar reminder right now.

Total Distance
7.00

I had to go to the printing company this morning to pick up some plots.  So my wife and I took two of our younger daughters to school and went to Mesa Blueprint.  It's exactly 7 miles from my house.  My wife also had to take a dress to the dry cleaners so I told her I would attempt to run home and for her to be ready if I called.  She wasn't ready.

About half way through this became a zombie march home.  So I'll tell about the part that I remembered before losing rational and conscious thought.  The most enjoyable part was the smell of the Backyard Taco.  I know that sounds like a skanky brothel, but it's not.  It's a restaraunt now owned by a family that used to make Mexican food in their backyard.  They would make it for free, and if you wanted to give a donation, you could.  That's how they were able to get away with not having to follow typical regulations of running a business and having to comply with health code standards.  Well, I guess "business" got so good for them that they finally decided to do things right.  They've opened up shop on University.  I've gone there once.  It's pretty good.  But it smelled great this morning.  And I had one lady say good morning to me before I could say it to her.  That's all I can think of.  Goodbye.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 7.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Burt on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 12:18:00 from 174.17.220.220

My bloody toes didn't.

From JD on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 12:18:47 from 70.96.78.188

you had me at "skanky brothel".

From Burt on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 12:44:47 from 174.17.220.220

You might want to check out the hot tamale the next time you're in town.

From Tara on Tue, May 13, 2014 at 14:56:42 from 50.186.87.12

Mmmmm backyard tacos.

From The Quiet Pirate on Wed, May 14, 2014 at 08:51:37 from 152.26.230.54

Now I know what to name the next brothel I open. I've just got to figure out where I can find some skanks.

Tacos, tacos, tacos.

From Burt on Wed, May 14, 2014 at 11:49:54 from 184.101.98.88

Tara - Do you still have that tapeworm?

QP - if you're looking for skanks, try every girl that's ever quit the blog. I hate them all!! Wait, does that include your sister? Haven't seen her around for a while.

From Tara on Wed, May 14, 2014 at 12:21:49 from 50.186.87.12

I do. That must be what the bird is after!

Total Distance
2.43

I took Ginger with me for a recovery run.  I just took my time and took it easy.  But the reality is it ended up being just slightly slower than yesterday's pace.  I was crashing pretty hard yesterday.  Ginger was a good girl.  She saw a bunny.  She run towards it and it scampered off into the bushes.  She got real bouncy.  Not sure what she would've done if she'd caught it.  Looked more like she wanted to play.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.43
Weight: 0.00
Race: 2014 Garden Gate Run (3.09 Miles) 00:31:28
Total Distance
3.09

I have some friends, Marc and Marianna, that are also Rangar Ambassadors.  They wanted to put on their own race.  It sounded like a neat location, so I decided to support them.  I think this was their first event.  They want to do others and maybe turn it into a full time job.  This event was a 5k run/1 mile walk held at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix.

I wasn't feeling great, so I decided to run with my friend, Lisa, who was the captain of my McDowell Mountain Ragnar last year.  She always takes off real fast and dies out.  So I let her get out ahead of me for the first quarter mile.  Then I caught up to her, but she started slowing down.  Slower than even I wanted to go, so I kept going at my 10 min./mile pace. 

The race wound its way around a downtown Phoenix neighborhood.  It was an urban trail race.  We had some "hills" climbing up and over the freeway and back.  Marc said to be on the lookout for a painting of Homer Simpson and a yard with a life-size chess set in it.  I didn't see either.  The course wasn't marked great.  Marc had taped pink pieces of paper with arrows to the sidewalk.  Someone or someones removed some of them.  He was out on the course to help guide us, but everyone, and I mean everyone got lost!  Funny stuff.  There was probably less than 30  runners that attended.  I had a couple of gals ahead of me in my sights, but after I came over the bridge and back through a park, I lost sight of them.  I went straight through the park and didn't see any signs.  I figured I'd better stop and try to find where I was.  I realized I was on the other side of the park that we already ran through.  At this point I decided to just keep going to the other side and run the course backwards to the finish.  I figured I'd be pretty close to a 5k anyway.  3.09 miles is what my Runkeeper recorded.  Close enough.  Not long after that Lisa finished.  Hers said 2.6 miles.  The race wasn't chip timed or anything, so it wasn't a big deal to me.

After the race we got to enjoy the gardens.  I never knew this place existed.  I guess Marc and Marianna come here often to meditate and stuff.  It's a pretty place.  Enjoy the pictures.

Marc, Marianna, me, and Lisa

This is their mascot.  In their sister city of Himeji, Japan, the Shachi, not to be confused with Chachi of Happy Days, sits upon a hill protecting the castle.  I mean honestly, who is going to mess with a fish dragon?

Each one of these rocks was brought over from Japan and handplaced along the bank of the pond.

You can see the koi fish, which are the same kind of fish RWCD uses to control aquatic vegetation in their canal.

 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.09
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 17:17:46 from 50.186.87.12

Good job! Awesome pictures. I could meditate to those pictures. Keep up the running, your on a good roll!

From SlowJoe on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 17:33:17 from 66.69.93.8

Good race, Burt. You and your backwards running... Congrats!

I would love to have a few beers with Shachi one day.

From The Quiet Pirate on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 17:35:03 from 184.3.231.210

Fiasco 5k - I ran one of those here a couple years ago. The police were telling runners to run the wrong way through intersections.

At least you had a beautiful place to end your run. The photos of the garden are beautiful. Did you catch any of the fish? I heard you like sushi.

Hope your friends keep hosting races- if they need a pirate to whack people who remove signs, I might know someone.

From Burt on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 18:01:13 from 184.101.205.220

Joss: Mom, what are you doing?

Tara: I'm meditating to these pictures on the computer.

Joss: You're weird.

From Burt on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 18:03:40 from 184.101.205.220

Joe - You'll have to ask Schjoni first.

QP - I LOL'ed when you said that I like sushi.

From Burt on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 18:47:11 from 184.101.104.16

Oh my gosh ACorn. You are so gullible.

Total Distance
7.45

After I dropped my girls off at school I drove over to Usery Pass.  I brought some ice water in a water bottle.  It stayed pretty cool for most of the run even though it got pretty warm.  Often when I run this the wind is blowing south against my back as I climb the hill.  Today it was blowing against me as I went up.  It was kind of nice because it provided a cooling breeze.  I could definitely feel the difference as I ran down.  But it was down, so it was ok.  At mile 6 I remember saying, I've had a pretty good workout.  I'm happy with it.  I wish I was done.  But I still had another mile and a half to go.  There were some construction workers parked in the parking lot by me.  I contemplated asking them for water, but saw that one guy just had a jug.  I didn't want his jugs.  I always park in the parking lot in front of the sherriff's office.  I probably could have parked in Salt River Tube Rentals parking lot if I'd been paying attention.  It's usually closed.  But since school gets out this week, they have it open.  The funniest part of the workout was when I was leaving there were some workers controlling the traffic with their slow/stop signs.  They were staring at girls in bikinis going to rent some tubes to float down the Salt River.

I stopped once to take a picture.  The saguaros are in bloom.

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 7.45
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From KristenRuns on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 22:08:58 from 174.65.109.89

Nice cactus! Running has turned me into a plant and bird lover. I'm always looking for new flowers and birdies! Maybe it's the long miles... :)

From Burt on Mon, May 19, 2014 at 22:21:09 from 184.101.205.220

I like bunnies and prairie dogs :)

From Tara on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 12:26:53 from 50.186.87.12

That's some great mileage!

From Burt on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 12:33:02 from 184.101.205.220

Tara, don't patronize me.

From allie on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 14:22:37 from 161.38.221.168

i'm confused about your photo. is that a building?

From allie on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 14:22:48 from 161.38.221.168

ohhh, is it ginger?

From Tara on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 14:30:50 from 50.186.87.12

It's a cherry tree. They are a lot drier in Burt's parts.

From Burt on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 14:31:20 from 184.101.205.220

It's a lonely puppy. It wants a hug.

From ACorn on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 14:54:33 from 71.213.41.74

I was looking forward to scrolling down to the picture. Your post led me to believe it was going to be of girls in bikinis but it turned out just to be a cactus. Bummer!

From SlowJoe on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 18:46:28 from 66.69.93.8

The mysterious desert mirage - is it a dog, a tree, a puppy, a cactus, or girls in bikinis? My take - it's a misunderstood polar bear who has always wanted to be a princess when he grows up.

From Burt on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 18:47:51 from 184.101.104.16

ACorn - if you want to see girls in bikinis, you need to go to my Saturday post.

From Burt on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 18:48:23 from 184.101.104.16

Joe - now I know why you put on lipstick before going to bed.

From SlowJoe on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 18:50:27 from 66.69.93.8

Someone just went back on the list.

From Burt on Wed, May 21, 2014 at 10:26:02 from 184.101.123.214

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlAJQF2mQfg

Total Distance
6.43

I went to Usery Pass again, but this time I had in mind that I would turn off at the three mile mark where there is a horse trail.  I really want to be ready for the McDowell Mountain Trail Ragnar this year, so I though I'd check out the trails.  The three miles up was nice and steady.  I only saw one cyclist out today.  Kinda weird.  I guess everyone must have jobs or something.  Then I got on the trail to go exploring.  Only it wasn't a trail.  It was a very sandy wash.  You people make your horses walk through this?  Mean!  So, I said to myself, "This is no fun.  Why don't I go try to climb that steep hill?  Bag a peak, as they say."  I changed my Runkeeper to hike mode.  Then I proceeded to go up this steep slippery hill.  It looked high from the bottom, but it wasn't that high.  I realized when it only took me 5 minutes to get to the top it just wasn't as high as I'd like to brag about.  Then I had to scoot on my butt to get down.  That wasn't fun.  From now on I'll stick to the road.  Enjoy the picture show.

On the way back down my right nipple started to bleed.  I noticed it right as I saw a lady cyclist coming up the hill.  So I lifted my shirt up and pretended like I was fanning myself because it was so hot.  I think she bought it.  Then I ran the rest of the way without a shirt. I saw three more cyclists and lots of ladies in bikinis at the tube rental.  While I did not take a picture of the ladies in bikinis, I did take a picture of my nipple.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 6.43
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Thu, May 22, 2014 at 14:06:45 from 168.215.171.129

Be proud of your bloody nipple. Next time, point it out to everyone you pass: "Hey, look, my nipple's bleeding! Look!"

From Burt on Thu, May 22, 2014 at 17:31:17 from 184.101.123.214

I had the hardest time taking a nipple selfie. I was proud enough of it to send it to my wife.

From Tara on Thu, May 22, 2014 at 22:09:30 from 50.186.87.12

Look at you!!

From ACorn on Thu, May 22, 2014 at 22:31:31 from 71.213.41.74

Way to get another longer run in! Sorry about your bloody boob, thanks for not posting the pic.

From The Quiet Pirate on Fri, May 23, 2014 at 07:35:52 from 152.26.230.52

Your bloody nipple photo looks a lot like a black bug with a wing. The other photos are great. Beautiful land you live in. Congrats on owning that hill top!

From ACorn on Fri, May 23, 2014 at 07:46:50 from 71.213.41.74

Burt, please clarify, is the last pic of your nipple? TQP has confused me.

From Burt on Fri, May 23, 2014 at 11:02:14 from 184.101.123.214

Tara - I'm not as cool as you and all your peak bagging as of late.

ACorn - not my nipple. I won't post my nipple because it's not as sexy as my parfait leg.

QP - That's a tarantula hawk. But my nipples do have the same sting.

From rAtTLeTrAp on Fri, May 23, 2014 at 15:59:42 from 70.199.129.166

Note to self: If I ever get to hug Burt; not too tight. Must avoid getting stung or bloodstained by his nipples.

From Burt on Fri, May 23, 2014 at 17:01:45 from 97.117.247.28

I could cut glass with them.

From flatlander on Sun, May 25, 2014 at 05:07:19 from 76.31.9.237

Nice pics, makes me homesick. Is Usury Pass out toward Apache Junction?

From Burt on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 19:14:10 from 71.223.32.7

Yes, Flat. It's still in Mesa, but pretty close to AJ. The beginning of the Phoenix Marathon is on the other side of Usery Pass. I always run up the backside.

From Burt on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 19:14:36 from 71.223.32.7

If I hear one smart alleck remark about my last comment...

From SlowJoe on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 19:43:30 from 66.69.93.8

Ah, you should have seen how fast I clicked on the link to the backside comment. Pretty disappointed when I saw the last one though. It's like you were speaking right to me. But I'll be back. I'll be back.

From The Quiet Pirate on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 19:55:31 from 184.3.231.210

i thought pirates were the only ones after the booty

From Burt on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 20:43:16 from 71.223.32.7

Oh, I was speaking right to you, Joe. And QP. Juvenile!

Total Distance
3.85

I got up at 6:30am and piddled around for an hour and a half before I got out the door.  (I just looked up the definition of piddled.  I did not do that for an hour.)  It was already 78°.  I brought a water bottle with me and stashed it at the bridge by the RWCD Canal.  I felt real good at first, but the heat seemed to drain the energy out of me after the first two miles.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.85
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From The Quiet Pirate on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 19:40:17 from 184.3.231.210

you need a magic water fountain

From Burt on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 20:41:55 from 71.223.32.7

There's one that's not so magical because it's only a block away from my house. What good does that do me???

From allie on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 20:44:16 from 161.38.221.168

you should have used "puttered"

From ACorn on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 21:09:48 from 71.213.41.74

I believe "pittered" is also acceptable if there are drupes nearby.

From Burt on Tue, May 27, 2014 at 22:00:03 from 71.223.32.7

puttered - occupy oneself in a desultory but pleasant manner, doing a number of small tasks or not concentrating on anything particular. Oh yeah. That's really good.

pittered - A contrivance for removing the pits from peaches, plums, and other stone fruit. Geez, Acorn. Keep it family safe.

From Tracy on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 06:10:46 from 50.103.234.158

I'm sorry I missed the bloody nips discussion from last week. This one is only so so.

From Burt on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 12:02:17 from 71.223.32.7

I'm guessing you're not that sorry you missed it, Tracy. Nope, you're not sorry at all.

Total Distance
3.62

Crikey!  I almost forgot to blog today!  My phone battery died right when I hit save for my Runkeeper activity.  But it looks like it saved, so I'm good.  I ran up to McKellips today.  Don't know why I don't do that more often since it's uphill to there and downhill back.  Actually I do know.  It's because there are more roads to cross.  It was 82º by the time I got out the door.  I brought another water bottle which fit comfortably in my pocket.  When I started running, it felt like a recovery run.  So I went with it.  Nice and slow.  And hot.

Emily wanted to go running with me this morning, too.  She didn't make it very far, but she did pose for a bunch of fake running pictures :)

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 3.62
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rye on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:00:45 from 97.121.36.221

Nothin like fake running pictures!

From Burt on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:03:21 from 174.26.202.177

Hey! You beat me on commenting on my blog by 47 seconds! Clearly, you're the better friend.

From Rye on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:04:38 from 97.121.36.221

Great timing on my part!

From SlowJoe on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:44:16 from 66.69.93.8

Emily has good form.

Do your shorts get longer with age?

From Rye on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:46:46 from 97.121.36.221

SlowJoe....from a guy that played basketball in the 80's the shorts that we wear now should be jammies.

From Burt on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 18:50:10 from 174.26.202.177

Joe - If only you'd seen the other pictures of Emily's form. And yes. Soon yours too will be to your ankles.

From Tracy on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 19:58:29 from 50.103.234.158

This is a MUCH cuter picture than the other one I saw today!

From Burt on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 21:14:32 from 174.26.202.177

You think I'm cute?

From Tracy on Thu, May 29, 2014 at 05:49:50 from 50.103.234.158

No, Rudolph. The other picture I viewed of you was not cute.

Emily, on the other hand, is adorable.

From The Quiet Pirate on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 08:23:25 from 152.26.230.52

What a cutie pie! Who is that old man with her? Are those astronaut shorts?

From Rhett on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 10:45:01 from 24.121.0.8

Cute photo. Is that a Barcelona jersey? Go Spain for the repeat in the World Cup?

From Burt on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 11:07:34 from 97.117.255.39

QP - That old man is me. I took a selfie. From the moon.

Rhett - Indeed it is. Visca Barca!

From The Quiet Pirate on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 11:31:47 from 152.26.230.52

I'd suspected as much.

From ACorn on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 12:05:42 from 71.213.41.74

You two are quite the duo. I like your shorts, don't listen to the haters.

From Burt on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 13:45:24 from 97.117.255.39

Thanks Corndogelius. That's why you're my favorite. Today.

Total Distance
2.84

What can I say?  I like my bed.  I finally rolled out of bed at 8am.  Got out the door at 8:30.  Started running at 8:45.  It was hot and I got real sweaty.  I saw a bird with a lizard in its claws.  I'm not sure what kind of bird it was, but it didn't look like a bird of prey.  It looked more like a dove.  I ran my normal route down the East Maricopa Floodway and back up the RWCD canal.As I approached Adobe St. I could see half a mile away on Brown Rd. a slow moving white truck.  I guessed it was an RWCD zanjero truck.  I was right.  I did a 180° and met him at the radial gate.  It was Rion, who was my lead zanjero for most of the time that I worked there in the field.  We had a nice short talk.  Which is saying something because that guy likes to talk.  And to tell truth, I used to love to listen to his stories.
 

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 2.84
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 14:24:58 from 50.103.234.158

Arizona must have a slightly different vocabulary. What is a zanjero? I could look it up, but that would require effort.

From Tracy on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 14:32:43 from 50.103.234.158

All right, i looked it up. I get it now. Arizona dies have a different vocabulary. Zanjero wasn't on dictionary.com, but Merrimack-Webster helped me out.

From Burt on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 15:03:35 from 174.26.201.70

Good old Noah Webster. He knows. He always knows. So, the last time I gave a talk in church, I started it out the way so many people do with their topic, "Webster's dictionary defines faith as...." I don't remember what my topic was, but I used that line and then proceeded to tell everyone that's probably not what it says because I don't even have a Webster's Dictionary. But it probably says something like that.

From SlowJoe on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 17:07:39 from 66.69.93.8

I remember looking it up awhile back. I still don't get it. But my IQ has been known to fluctuate.

From Burt on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 17:26:32 from 174.26.201.70

I've noticed that, Joe. Especially in the summer months. The heat must fry your brain.

From ACorn on Sun, Jun 01, 2014 at 09:55:36 from 71.213.41.74

Whenever I hear or see adobe, I think of Pee Wee Herman. Thanks a lot!

From Burt on Sun, Jun 01, 2014 at 21:59:32 from 174.26.201.70

Whenever I see Pee Wee Herman, I think of...never mind...

From Tara on Sun, Jun 01, 2014 at 22:13:44 from 50.186.87.12

From The Quiet Pirate on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 12:17:37 from 152.26.230.28

Burt- The dove with a lizard in it's claws is a sign. A blank one.

From Burt on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 13:58:53 from 174.26.201.70

It's been an hour and a half since you commented, QP, and it still shows up in the Recent Comments. Well, it won't after this, but what's up with the blog??? Doesn't anybody comment on other people's blogs anymore???

From Burt on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 13:59:43 from 174.26.201.70

Also, I think you have a blank sign in your head. Or something.

From The Quiet Pirate on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 15:09:32 from 184.3.231.210

If by anyone you mean RAD, she's too busy being my "new girl" at the business I recently started up.

As far as everyone else, I think blank sign pretty much says it all.

From Tara on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 15:21:13 from 50.186.87.12

I've been rocking myself in a corner since Burt called me an SOB the other day. I'll be more active as soon as my self esteem comes back.

QP- You always crack me up:)

From Burt on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 16:23:28 from 174.26.201.70

Tara - sorry. I got caught up in the moment of your glory. I still haven't done Day 4 of the 30 Day Ab Challenge. Wink wink.

Total Distance
2.64

One of the reasons I like to run in the East Maricopa Floodway is because I can run right under University Drive without having to stop for traffic.  Today as I was approaching the bridge I saw a dude ride his bike down and stop under the bridge.  He had his house packed on his bike.  I don't think he saw me coming because he was disrobing as I got there.  Or maybe he did...
Also, I completed Day 5 of the 30 Day Ab Challenge.  Well, I've completed all 5 days so far.  I just hadn't said anything about it.

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 2.64
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 11:10:03 from 168.215.171.129

Notify the zanjero right away! The floodway is tainted!

From Burt on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 11:20:30 from 174.26.201.70

Oh, Joe. You're cute. Zanjeros don't work in the Floodway.

From allie on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 11:42:41 from 161.38.221.168

disrobe? lame word choice.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 12:30:39 from 174.26.201.70

Well, Mrs. Thesaurus, what word or words would you choose for this scenario?

From SlowJoe on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 12:34:11 from 168.215.171.129

I agree with Allie. He was nudifying, nakediting, bithdaysuiticating. Any of those common, basic vocabulary words would've been better.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 12:41:58 from 174.26.201.70

Those are all great words. I bow to your superiousness.

From allie on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 13:56:04 from 174.23.143.89

well, i would have used the more modern word, givingtheserpentair.

disrobe makes it sound like he was getting ready to have his portrait painted in 1675.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:00:28 from 174.26.201.70

After I read that five times and figured out what it meant, I pretty much peed my pants.

From JD on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:06:26 from 70.96.78.188

funny!

From ACorn on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:17:23 from 71.213.41.74

allie ftw!

From Tracy on Sat, Jun 07, 2014 at 19:46:45 from 50.103.234.158

Did you give him a high five?

From Burt on Sat, Jun 07, 2014 at 20:06:35 from 174.26.201.70

I did not, actually.

Total Distance
2.69

The plan earlier this week was to go on a group trail run this morning.  However, I was up late last night trying to hit another deadline at work.  So it didn't happen.  Plan B was to run at the hottest time of the day.  I made sure to make that happen.  It was 104º.  I headed out on my normal course and saw a zanjero truck at the radial gate on 3 1/2 - 1/2W.  I went over to say hi.  It was Danny.  I knocked on the back of the truck.  That's a little thing I do since some zanjeros are known to jump and/or scream like girls when someone surprises them.  Danny was on the phone.  I waited a bit.  After a while it started getting awkward, so I slowly started to walk away.  Just then he opened his door.  We talked a while.  Then I took off.  I stopped a couple of time briefly to drink from my water bottle.  Then I did Day 7 of the 30 Day Ab Challenge.  40 situps, 20 crunches, 20 leg lifts, and a 30 second plank.  They add more (reps? sets?) each day.  So far I've been able to keep up.  But I don't know if I'll be able to soon.  I might have to start breaking them up throughout the day.

Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 2.69
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From AZDesertmonsoon on Sat, Jun 07, 2014 at 23:56:56 from 184.98.112.118

I don't know how you do it in the heat. I've done that a few times and it about killed me.

From ACorn on Mon, Jun 09, 2014 at 10:17:34 from 71.213.41.74

I admire your dedication to get out in the heat. The ab challenge sounds awful.

From Burt on Mon, Jun 09, 2014 at 11:11:49 from 174.26.201.70

AZDM - The trick is to think about cold stuff. Antartica, Pluto, my wife on our anniversary....

ADAM - The ab challenge would be more challenging if I had abs.

Total Distance
7.35

Usery Pass this morning.  I saw two horses, one bunny, some cyclists.  It doesn't seem like there's as much cyclists out anymore.  There were quite a few, but I don't see them in packs of 20 anymore.  The biggest pack I saw this morning was three.   But I'm sure it was really two and one because I saw the two ladies on my uphill (their downhill).  When they were coming back up and I was going down I said, "Great job ladies!"  They smelled nice.  Like sunblock.  I'm in love.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 7.35
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Mon, Jun 09, 2014 at 13:45:09 from 168.215.171.129

Cyclists are strange creatures when observed in their native habitats. My guess is the smell must have come from some kind of mating ritual.

From Burt on Mon, Jun 09, 2014 at 14:01:41 from 174.26.201.70

Would this mating ritual involve horses and bunnies?

From ACorn on Tue, Jun 10, 2014 at 10:21:09 from 71.213.41.74

The cyclists have likely moved to Europe to prepare for the Tour de France. That's what I would do. I prefer the smell of gasoline to sunblock, sometimes when I get bored I just open up the gas can and.........

From Burt on Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 21:26:19 from 174.17.249.246

Oh boy, Adamdogelius. That explains soooo much. :)

Total Distance
1.78

Was going to go running with one of my daughters and her friend, but my daughter didn't make it very far before she started walking.  Most of this was walking.  Her friend was brave enough to go inside the 72" storm drain while I lifted the grate for her.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 1.78
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 16:07:40 from 50.103.238.70

Um, it seems like there's a story here.

From Burt on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 17:41:20 from 174.17.249.246

I'll take a picture of it tomorrow. My daughter didn't want to go in. She was afraid of hobos.

Total Distance
3.71

I started running at 8:40am.  It was pretty warm out, so I took it easy.  There was a guy walking his dog.  I let him know I was coming up on him when I got about 20 feet away.  He had fast reflexes.  So I decided to see how many times I could use the word morning to talk to him.  I said, "Good morning.  It's a warm morning this morning."

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 3.71
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 13:31:39 from 161.38.221.168

but so and morning.

From Burt on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 14:01:35 from 174.17.249.246

You're butt is sore this morning?

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 09:02:18 from 50.203.76.218

This morning, I thought to my morning self, "Self, it is a warm morning this morning."

From allie on Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 09:25:39 from 174.27.200.174

the day dawn is breaking the world is awaking the clouds of night's darkness are fleeing away

From Burt on Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 19:26:27 from 174.17.249.246

That's pretty good, James. That's really good.

allie, el alba ya rompe el mundo despierta, y huyen las sombras de obscuridad.

Total Distance
2.70

It was 9:40am by the time I got out the door today.  I didn't look to see how hot it was, but today's high is 105º.  As usual, I took it nice and slow.  My wife was texting me, so I stopped a few times.  I know I promised Tracy a picture of the tunnel yesterday, but I was too lazy to go running.  I hope she'll forgive me for waiting until today.

This is what it looks like from the outside.  You can lift the grate up from the bottom because it's hinged up top.

This is what it looks like on the inside.  Does anyone want to go exploring?

 

I saw this coyote today.  Usually you only see them early in the morning.  This one did not look healthy.

Here is the nudifying hobo.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.70
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 08:53:18 from 66.69.93.8

I feel complete now that I've seen these pictures. The tunnel looks like a nice, safe place for a run.

They better call the zanjero out to do something about that coyote. Maybe he can heal it.

From Burt on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 20:54:53 from 174.17.249.246

Yep, and you better take a mystical zanjero with you to guide you through the tunnel.

From Tracy on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 17:25:59 from 96.2.195.130

The hobo was there again? I'm relieved that these aren't just pictures of bloody nipples.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 09:22:05 from 174.26.197.196

Bloody nipples! Gross!

Total Distance
2.68

I ate entirely too much yesterday.  But isn't that what Father's Day is all about?

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.68
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From ACorn on Mon, Jun 16, 2014 at 13:41:17 from 71.213.41.74

I'm not sure what Father's day is about but I think you're referring to Thanksgiving. Nice run amigo!

From Burt on Mon, Jun 16, 2014 at 17:21:48 from 174.17.249.246

Oh, Adam. I forgot that you don't have a father. Forgive me.

Total Distance
2.68

So Sunday was Father's Day, but it was also my anniversary.  We celebrated our anniversary yesterday by going out to Macayo's.  It's a Mexican restaurant.  I ate a lot of chips and salsa.  I wanted to run Usery Pass this morning, but I didn't get up early enough, I was still feeling bloated from all that food, and my back was hurting.  I decided to just run my regular route.  I was going to do the 3.75 mile route, but it was getting too hot, I wasn't feeling great, and I'm getting stressed out.  In between work piling up on me and my neighbor calling the police on my boy for skateboarding late last night, I decided to cut it short and get my day started.  So, no blogging or facebooking, or Words with Friending today.  See you all tomorrow.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.68
Weight: 1000.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 18:46:50 from 66.69.93.8

Sounds like you have some ridiculous neighbors. It's amazing to me how un-neighborly some folks get after awhile (even in Texas where everyone is usually friendly!). See you tomorrow.

I think it's Wordsing with Friends.

From ACorn on Wed, Jun 18, 2014 at 11:28:47 from 71.213.41.74

Arizona has the best Mexican food. By the way, I called the cops on you.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 09:14:43 from 174.26.197.196

This neighbor was nice to us for all of one day when we first moved in. Then he got mad. Something about us driving in his driveway. Whatever.

Acorn - I don't really mind that he called the cops on my son. I just wish he'd come and talk to me and let me deal with that punk instead.

From ACorn on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 09:26:40 from 71.213.41.74

Makes sense, I agree with you. I wouldn't have called the cops on you unless your gaseous emissions were disrupting my sleep.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 09:31:31 from 174.26.197.196

Anything north of the Grand Canyon is considered the "safe zone."

Total Distance
7.30

Usery Pass.  It's getting far too (not fart oo) hot for this run.  I got up early, too.  I did a lot of walking in the last half mile.  And it's downhill!

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 7.30
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From DaleG on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 12:58:18 from 50.168.232.191

Nice miles for you, too. I would die in that heat.

From DaleG on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 12:58:52 from 50.168.232.191

Nice miles for you, too. I would die in that heat.

Happy anniversary, by the way.

From Burt on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 12:59:55 from 174.26.197.196

Well, at least you would have a nice tan for your viewing.

From DaleG on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 14:55:02 from 50.168.232.191

One side would be tan and the other side would be disturbingly white.

Total Distance
3.71

Thursday I didn't run because I was volunteering at the Adventure Run and there was a chance that I might be one of the volunteers to run with the masses.  They had two others pace, which was fine because it was over 100º.  So I went to bed in my running clothes and then didn't run at all yesterday.  I'm sorry to admit to you all that I still have them on and finally did go running this morning.  I didn't feel great so I kept my pace above 10, but that's nothing new lately.  Have a great weekend everyone.  Going to shower now.  I hope I remember how.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.71
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 17:25:05 from 66.69.93.8

Then you can tip a cow, after you plow, when you hear the cat's meow.

Ciao!

From Burt on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 17:53:32 from 174.26.197.196

I know!

(That rhymed because it ends in the same letters.)

From Jenruns on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 18:15:41 from 166.137.209.36

Hi Burt. Glad you got off the couch today ;)

From Burt on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 18:29:08 from 174.26.197.196

Bahahaha! I actually spent more time on the couch today than I have in a very long time. I'm usually sitting on my office chair downstairs working. Figured it would be nice to watch Netflix with the rest of the fam :)

From ACorn on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 19:55:55 from 71.213.41.74

I hope you didn't shower in your running clothes. Nice week of running!

From Burt on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 19:56:59 from 174.26.197.196

Nevernude!

From ACorn on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 19:59:07 from 71.213.41.74

I almost wrote that but didn't know if nude was blog appropriate.

From Burt on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 20:05:23 from 174.26.197.196

If Diet Coke is blog appropriate, then nude should be. Besides, Joe is that master at nudificationness.

From SlowJoe on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 21:45:27 from 107.77.66.81

I believe the word is entronudifilificonsciousness

Total Distance
3.43

I had to go visit a site today that was near Usery Pass, so I decided to run it.  However, it was 9AM by the time I got there, so I didn't run all the way up to the top.  I just ran 1.7ish miles and turned around.  It was windy on the way up, which was nice, but I knew it would be an oven on the way down.  There were still a few cyclists out.  My phone said it was 88º.  I keep saying it, but I really need to get up earlier.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.43
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Fri, Jun 27, 2014 at 11:51:44 from 168.215.171.129

If you say something enough, it becomes true.

From Burt on Fri, Jun 27, 2014 at 15:23:37 from 174.17.91.234

That's true. That's true. I think that's true. I guess that's really true. That's true.

From Nan on Sat, Jun 28, 2014 at 14:39:57 from 50.183.126.167

Man, you really need to get up earlier.

Total Distance
0.00

My back has been bothering me lately.  I hope to be back at it soon.  No pun intended.  And if it was, it was a terrible one.

Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Tue, Jul 01, 2014 at 18:56:37 from 66.69.93.8

Maybe you can find a time machine and go BACK to the future to when, like, they could cure back problems and stuff. No pun intended. Ah, that's a lie...I'm just no good at puns. But I do hope you feel better soon and put together some back runs. Dang that wasn't right either. Forget it....

From DaleG on Thu, Jul 03, 2014 at 12:15:28 from 50.168.232.191

That stinks. I hope you feel better soon

From allie on Thu, Jul 03, 2014 at 12:22:41 from 65.130.145.37

FRB has your back, bro.

From julieesplin on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 15:26:19 from 172.56.38.220

I started blogging again just for you burt.

From Burt on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 15:35:46 from 97.117.232.16

That's real nice of you to say, Julie. Although it's probably not 100% true :)

From PRE on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 19:43:47 from 99.50.213.11

Burt, hey man, hope you're feeling better soon. I know what that back issue feels like...had to back out of a couple races myself due back issue.

From Burt on Mon, Jul 07, 2014 at 17:20:18 from 97.117.232.16

PRE! How did I miss your comment? I hope you've been doing well. Long time no talk.

Total Distance
2.64

My back finally started feeling better-ish.  I felt great when I started.  My first half mile was way faster than what my normal pace has been lately.  But then I slowed down and started to feel it.  Still, my overall pace was faster than normal.  So, I guess that's a good thing.  I joined a team for the Colorado Ragnar.  Hope to see you all there.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 2.64
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Burt on Mon, Jul 07, 2014 at 17:59:10 from 97.117.232.16

Oh, you little hit and run!

From Burt on Tue, Jul 08, 2014 at 00:15:48 from 97.117.232.16

:)

Total Distance
2.00

Just two miles this morning with Ginger.  My left calf was hurting.  Feels fine now. 

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 2.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Jul 10, 2014 at 11:05:53 from 161.38.221.168

you see that guy holding the mic? he is SO UNCOMFORTABLE.

"this lady, she's insane. she's completely insane. keep smiling."

From Burt on Thu, Jul 10, 2014 at 16:33:39 from 184.101.208.102

I can tell. But he's very cool under pressure.

From PRE on Thu, Jul 10, 2014 at 18:40:25 from 99.50.213.11

2 MILES. NICE. Back must be feeling better.

From SlowJoe on Mon, Jul 14, 2014 at 14:39:44 from 168.215.171.129

It does kinda look like he's keeping his distance.

From The Quiet Pirate on Thu, Jul 17, 2014 at 21:27:58 from 24.143.47.55

He's probably worried she's going to try and steal his nose next. He knows she's fast.

Total Distance
1.50

I've been sick for 2 weeks.  I finally feel a little better, but still a little congested.  Maybe I'm not supposed to run anymore.  But I get fat when I don't run :(

I went to one of my sites today.  I had mapped out the washes from aerial photos, but I wanted to walk them to verify.  I also wanted to meet the homeowner and get his input.  Anyway, it was already 100º out at 10:30am when I went there.  I brought a bottle of water with me, ducked under the barbed wire fence, and took it nice and slow.  I hope I can get into a better routine now.

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 1.50
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.05

I got another free new pair of shoes for volunteering 3 times at the Adventure Run.  It's been a while since I've gotten some.  I had to quit volunteering right around the time they started only letting you get New Balance shoes.  Luckily, they now let you get New Balance, Mizuno, Asics, and Brooks.  I picked up a pair of Mizuno Trail running shoes and wore them today.  They're fine, but they pick up a lot of small pebbles in the treads of the heels.  Wouldn't you think a pair of trail shoes would not want to pick up pebbles?  Oh, well, the Mizuno road shoes have a tendancy to pick up large stones in the arch.  Still, they're the most comfortable shoes to me.  Have a great week everyone.  Thanks for making me #1 on the charts, and #1 in your hearts.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 2.05
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 14:42:40 from 50.103.252.209

A back injury? Some pictures? No blogging? Illness? Your blog is only a little more interesting than mine lately. Get runnin, will ya?

From Burt on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 15:15:14 from 71.223.39.43

I know. It sucks. But look at my Quantcast.

From Tracy on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 15:59:17 from 50.103.252.209

That's cause you're, you know, friendly.

From The Quiet Pirate on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 16:47:04 from 24.10.255.125

I've wondered about that rock picker upper in those shoes. I keep waiting for them to fix the design flaw. I guess the folks who make them like collecting rocks. I would prefer a shoe that picks up money.

From SlowJoe on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 18:17:55 from 107.77.64.108

I heard those kind of shoes wear out after 2.06 miles, so make sure you only run a few meters next time.

From Burt on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 18:18:56 from 71.223.39.43

Figures. I get what I pay for.

Total Distance
2.58

A little more than yesterday.  A little slower than yesterday.  I usually like to run in the floodway, but with the recent storms we've had, it's, wouldn't you know, flooded.  So I ran on the east maintenance road of the RWCD canal.  When I got to Main Street I turned around.  I actually touched the gate before I turned around because somehow, if I hadn't touched the gate, the entire run would have not counted.

Found this video of Julie at the 2010 Top of Utah finish.  She had quite the muscle spasm after finishing.  And I think the clock broke.

Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 2.58
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From julieesplin on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 06:40:06 from 71.37.65.21

Yea, something like that.

I didn't feel well that day and at mile 19 I swore off marathons forever. I had done that several times. That was a PR at the time and I didn't even enjoy it.

Afterwards I felt so guilty that I was ungrateful. I changed my attitude after that race. I don't think it's anything other people notice, but I think differently.

Thanks for the memories Burt!

From Burt on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 06:57:18 from 184.101.126.100

Sounds like allie in her recent victory at Deseret News. You have a great attitude. :)

From Tara on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 07:21:15 from 50.186.87.12

WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON WITH YOUR quocast!? Julie went viral...in China!

From Burt on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 07:25:30 from 184.101.126.100

So yeah. I have no idea why the Chinese love her so much. Yeah.

From Tracy on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 13:29:13 from 50.103.252.209

I bet you've been breaking I to people's houses to use their computers to bump up that number. Is Arizona anywhere near China?

From Burt on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 13:33:27 from 184.101.126.100

Kind of. If you start digging, eventually you'll get to hell. Keep digging more and you'll get to Arizona. Dig some more and you'll get back to hell. And finally dig some more and you'll make it to China.

Total Distance
2.60

I was having a stupid dream this morning that I thought I really needed to wait and see how it played out.  My life depended on it.  So yeah, it ended up with me sitting on the toilet for 30 minutes.  Yeah.  Great dream.

Finally got out to run at 9:30am.  I ran along the RWCD Canal again.  Saw lots of kois and amirs.  I was surprised to see so many because they usually they like to hide in the shade when it gets hot.  But maybe the heat causes the algae and moss to grow, so it's prime feeding time.

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 2.60
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 16:31:11 from 198.207.244.102

Koi in the canal? Is that a new municipal program or did somebody dump their fish tank? Good running by the way.

From Burt on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 16:46:39 from 184.101.121.216

RWCD stocks their canal with them. One of them is supposed to eat the algae and the other the moss. They do a great job. They used to spend tons of money on magnacide which would kill everything in the canal.

From Burt on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 16:47:58 from 184.101.121.216

And that's why nobody is allowed to fish in the canal. When I worked there I had to chase a few people off.

From SlowJoe on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 17:42:47 from 107.77.64.108

Oh joi! Ahoy, koi! Yep, the zanjeros are really staying on top of things lately.

Nice run Burt. Phoenix at 9:30 am sounds hot.

From flatlander on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 07:36:18 from 76.31.9.237

Night fishing is the key, when the RWCD storm troopers are sleeping.

From Burt on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 09:52:00 from 184.101.121.216

Oh Flat. Flat, Flat, Flat, Flat, Flat. The zanjero never sleeps.

Total Distance
3.68

Woke up to some pleasant sprinkles this morning.  It made my run enjoyable.  Still slow though.  Right Joe?  Zanjero.

Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 3.68
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 14:42:50 from 50.103.247.37

You're the man. Glad you're feeling healthy enough to run and blog so that I can look up the word zanjero again.

From SlowJoe on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 19:33:26 from 104.51.208.13

Glad the zanjeros decided to give Arizona a little rain. That is, after all, their job.

From Tara on Mon, Aug 04, 2014 at 11:51:52 from 50.186.87.12

Good job getting out!

From Burt on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 11:29:11 from 184.101.121.216

Thank you all for your kind words.

Total Distance
2.01

I wanted to run about 6 miles this morning.  As soon as I started running I realized I had to make a pee pee.  I knew there was a public restroom at Gene Autrey Park.  About a mile and a half in I felt my ankle getting irritated.  I thought perhaps some pebbles had gotten in my sock.  When I got to the restroom I realized my sock was too low and my shoe was rubbing against the back of my ankle.  I knew if I kept running it would get worse, so I called my daughter to come pick me up.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.01
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Tue, Aug 05, 2014 at 17:55:04 from 107.77.80.113

Ouch! I hope you still made pee pee.

From Burt on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 09:31:39 from 184.101.121.216

Oh yeah. I made a pee pee.

From Tracy on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 12:53:49 from 192.80.111.20

Why didn't you call your daughter to bring you another pair of socks?

From Burt on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 13:04:43 from 184.101.121.216

You don't understand, Tracy! It still hurts :(

From Tracy on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 13:13:08 from 192.80.111.20

Put some windex on it and then go out for a run.

From Burt on Wed, Aug 06, 2014 at 13:26:31 from 184.101.121.216

:)

Gotta love Windex.

Race: 2014 Colorado Ragnar (19.5 Miles) 04:03:45
Total Distance
19.50

I've always wanted to do the Colorad Ragnar.  Now I never want to do it again.  But I did have a fun time and a great team.  And it was a beautiful course.  The problem was I never got acclimated to the altitude.  I knew it was going to be rough after walking up the first flight of stairs at the motel.

My first leg was 7.4 miles with an 800 foot climb from 9000 feet to 9800 feet.  It was extraoridinarily difficult.  Here are a couple of pictures.

My second leg was at night.  It was 9.1 miles.  There was more downhill than uphill, and it was a little lower in altitude.  So I was able to get it done at a pace a little over a minute faster per mile than my first leg.  No pictures.

My last leg was 3.0 miles.  It was uphill again, so it pretty much sucked.  It wasn't even that steep, but I was spent and it was hot.  I stopped to take this picture.

Colorado is a very pretty place.  Too bad everyone there is a pothead!  Right, Nan?

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 19.50
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Jake K on Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 11:30:04 from 199.190.170.28

First leg up around Vail Pass? Beautiful area but insanely difficult to run up there coming from AZ!

From Burt on Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 11:57:13 from 184.101.121.216

Yes, Jake. I think so. I finished at Copper Mountain Resort.

From SlowJoe on Tue, Aug 12, 2014 at 09:59:21 from 107.77.80.27

Nice pictures! Congrats on another Ragnar.

What's wrong with potheads? They're a peaceful people.

From Burt on Tue, Aug 12, 2014 at 10:00:47 from 184.101.121.216

That's exactly the problem!

From Tara on Sat, Aug 16, 2014 at 16:55:21 from 50.186.87.12

Looks awesome, despite how you felt. A Ragnar legend..

From Burt on Sat, Aug 16, 2014 at 17:17:54 from 97.117.255.51

Thanks.

Total Distance
1.42

Recovery run.  Nice to be back in a place where I can breathe, even if it is extremely hot.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 1.42
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 10:42:26 from 63.230.4.71

oprah.

From Burt on Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 10:46:01 from 184.101.121.216

You little instigator!

From allie on Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 10:51:27 from 63.230.4.71

sorry, i meant to type "good run" but i'm blogging with my feet again.

From ACorn on Thu, Aug 14, 2014 at 00:25:58 from 75.169.62.37

Glad you can breathe again, it's good for your health. I learned that from Dr. Oz, he knows Oprah.

From Burt on Thu, Aug 14, 2014 at 11:55:22 from 97.117.255.51

He does? Then it can't be true.

Total Distance
2.90

I took Ginger with me for my first loop.  She's pretty good about staying with me.  As soon as I hit the Floodway I let go of the leash.  I didn't see anyone else around or I would have grabbed the leash again.  When we got to University Dr. I still let her run free.  She did wander out into the road for which she got scolded.  But there were no cars around.  She was doing so good that when we left the Floodway I still let her run free all the way home.  After a while I decided to go back out and do another loop.  It wasn't the same because I went north this time.  Ended up being pretty close to the same distance.  I saw Gene, one of the zanjeros and talked to him briefly.  Other than the humidity, it was pretty nice out.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.90
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Sun, Aug 17, 2014 at 15:18:03 from 70.208.2.219

I'm sending my dog in a package via UPS, she needs obedience training. Maybe I need to be shipped in a box...

Total Distance
3.68

It rained last night.  I let Ginger sleep in the laundry room from 2 to 5.  It was a nice sweat run.

Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 3.68
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.61

It was raining this morning again.  It felt like a tropical rainforest because it was 83º.  I wonder how much of the moisture trapped in my shirt was from the rain and how much was from my sweat.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.61
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Nan on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 at 13:09:01 from 50.183.126.167

Are you sure you didn't take a swim in that canal? Are there alligators in there?

From Burt on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 at 13:22:54 from 97.117.255.51

Very funny. I can't swim! :(

From flatlander on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 at 17:15:01 from 198.207.244.102

Another koi kanal, zanjero?

From Burt on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 at 17:15:54 from 97.117.255.51

You catch on quickly, Flat.

From SlowJoe on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 at 18:40:27 from 107.77.80.25

80% sweat, 10% rain, 10% magic water fountain overflow.

Total Distance
6.00

This is the run I wanted to do a couple of weeks ago (and then some), but I started forming a blister on my ankle and decided to call it quits because Ragnar was right around the corner.  The funny thing is, (by funny I mean queer.  By queer I mean strange.) last time I attempted this run, I had to make a pee pee.  And today I again had to make a pee pee!  So I stopped at Gene Autrey Park.  They have such nice facilities.  Then I headed north again.  As I approached to the turn around point at McDowell Road, I saw a couple of trucks parked near the canal.  Turns out they were City of Mesa trucks.  RWCD is very protective of their canal, so I texted the old inspector and let him know.  Then I headed back down the canal and the COM trucks moved over to McKellips and the canal.  They weren't blocking the access or anything, so that was good.  Then I kept going south and saw a truck near Adobe, which is the road I turn off of to go to my house.  I wondered if it was them again, but I couldn't tell.  As I got closer I could see that the truck was actually inside the gate half way between Adobe and University.  And it had it's driver side door open so I could tell that it was an RWCD truck.  I decided to keep going and see who it was.  Hence the 'and then some.'  It was zanjero, Charlie.  He was eating his lunch.  I hope that was all he was doing because he seemed rather nervous.  Anyway, I ran back home because I had to go clean the leaves out of our green pool before the landlord got there.

Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 6.00
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 14:03:23 from 168.215.171.129

If you keep sneaking up on the zanjeros like that, you'll find your green pool completely empty one day.

From PRE on Sat, Aug 23, 2014 at 18:19:01 from 32.210.47.141

Hey Burt, looks like you are having a year similar to mine from a mileage standpoint. And maybe your picking up the miles a bit now - which is good. Hope no injuries or back issues. Talk to you soon. Hope all well with the family!

From Burt on Sat, Aug 23, 2014 at 19:49:07 from 97.117.255.51

Joe - the pool is now empty. What have I done???

PRE - I am trying to pick up the miles. We'll see how it goes.

Total Distance
3.95

My daughters still go to school in our old neighborhood because that is where Emily's special education program is.  Emily rides the short bus to school, but we have to drive Abby and Katelynn.  So, I had my wife drop me off there, too.  I asked my daughters if they were going to be embarrassed when I got out.  "You're getting out??!!??"

:)

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.95
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tracy on Wed, Aug 27, 2014 at 05:44:13 from 50.109.94.172

Ha! I'm sure they were mortified! Great job dad.

From SlowJoe on Wed, Aug 27, 2014 at 07:30:13 from 168.215.171.129

I hope you immediately took your shirt off and started doing laps around the school.

From Burt on Wed, Aug 27, 2014 at 08:30:07 from 174.17.221.237

I would have, but that wouldn't help with the buttprint challenge.

From flatlander on Thu, Aug 28, 2014 at 12:48:52 from 198.207.244.102

It's the ears that bother them, I think.

From The Quiet Pirate on Tue, Sep 02, 2014 at 14:48:51 from 73.39.16.197

You're a great dad! Nice play.

From Rhett on Fri, Sep 19, 2014 at 11:35:13 from 24.121.0.8

Next time get out in the short shorts that the elites wear. Maybe spice it up with a tank top and a head band. They will love that.

From DaleG on Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 23:26:03 from 50.168.232.48

Hey Burt, how's it going? Hope everything's ok.

From Nan on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:17:08 from 50.183.126.167

Why you no more bloggie Burtie?

From Burt on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:29:16 from 174.17.252.196

Oh, sorry, guys. I still love you all. I'm going in to see a surgeon tomorrow about having a benign tumor removed from my abdomen. At least, I hope it's benign. Thanks for checking in! I'll let you know :)

From Nan on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:34:57 from 50.183.126.167

Wow. Thanks for the update. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Surgery is never no big deal.

On the bright side, maybe they'll find it is not benign or malignant. Maybe it'll be something cool like a cantaloupe or a watermelon. Did you swallow one too many seeds lately? We can hope.

From Burt on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:35:51 from 174.17.252.196

It probably wasn't a see. More like the whole thing :)

From flatlander on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:39:43 from 198.207.244.102

Take care, friend, and stay away from fruit.

From Burt on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:42:58 from 174.17.252.196

Someone once told that to Eve. And look what happened!!!

From flatlander on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:45:07 from 198.207.244.102

I know, what a mess.

From SlowJoe on Wed, Sep 24, 2014 at 13:54:05 from 168.215.171.129

Good luck tomorrow Burt, all the best. I hope you get to keep it as a souvenir once they slice it out.

From Burt on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 20:21:12 from 174.17.252.196

The surgeon said the same thing my family physician said. It's a lypoma. Not cancerous. The surgery is scheduled for next week. It started hurting again because he was poking around on it so much.

From Nan on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 20:46:18 from 50.183.126.167

Phew! So when they take it out, we can make fun of you for getting lypoma-suction!

From Burt on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 20:51:34 from 174.17.252.196

Nan!! I may just come by and slip it in your drink one of these days. That reminds me of the time I threw my bloody gauze in my sister's ice cream when she was making fun of me for not being able to eat any after I got my wisdom teeth pulled. But I guess you would be right to make fun of me. I have a friend that got contact lenses implanted into his eyes, so now I make fun of him for having implants.

From Nan on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 21:09:03 from 50.183.126.167

Hey you can make fun of me too. I just got braces this week. Seriously. For the second time in my life.

From Nan on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 21:10:04 from 50.183.126.167

On a positive note, these braces should protect me from sipping any lypo-whatevers from my drink.

From Burt on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 21:11:45 from 174.17.252.196

Awesome! Please put your hair in a side ponytail and post some pictures.

From Nan on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 21:14:43 from 50.183.126.167

Um no. I will be avoiding camera closeups for about six months. Thanks though.

From The Quiet Pirate on Fri, Oct 03, 2014 at 10:07:51 from 73.39.16.197

Burt,

How'd it go? Hope you are feeling better and out harassing people on the streets again soon.

From Burt on Fri, Oct 03, 2014 at 19:10:56 from 174.26.202.117

The surgery was a success. I am now 2.5 oz. lighter. Nan, you should be receiving a package in the mail any day now. Thanks for checking on me, QP. Hopefully I can be running within a week.

Total Distance
1.39

Anything faster than an 11:15 pace is jiggle speed.  I had to discover this in order to not jiggle.  Jiggling hurts my incision.  If I'm not jiggling, I'm fine.
 

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 1.39
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rhett on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 14:33:52 from 24.121.0.8

Keep it under "Jiggle Speed" for sure. You definitely don't want to mess up your incision.

From flatlander on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 09:02:49 from 76.31.29.220

Congrats on getting out there so soon. You can get a lot done at 11:15, I have done a lot of running at that speed.

From Burt on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 14:01:13 from 97.117.247.215

Thanks dudes. I am feeling a lot better today. Jigglewise.

Total Distance
1.44

Today's run didn't hurt my belly as much as yesterday's.  And I found a quarter!

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 1.44
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 09:32:15 from 24.30.41.119

incision? sorry.

quarter? neat.

beer? NO.

From Burt on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 10:00:30 from 97.117.247.215

You know me better than I know myself.

From SlowJoe on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 18:42:41 from 104.51.208.13

That quarter is mine, I dropped it. Please call me to arrange its return.

From Tara on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 19:46:21 from 50.186.87.12

I've been wondering about your cancer tumor thingy. Is that what it was? I never know when you're serious. How come you're running with an incision? Maybe it's only the size of a quarter.

From Rye on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 21:18:11 from 75.167.179.124

Not sure I want to write after Tara.......

From Tara on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 07:51:28 from 70.208.4.215

Rye, I need an update!

From Burt on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 14:03:41 from 97.117.247.215

SlowJ - I had to use the quarter to pay for the postage to send it back to you.

Tara - Maybe your brain is only the size of a quarter.

Rye - Don't make any remarks about your brain tumor that Tara can make fun of you about.

Total Distance
5.24

A.M. 2.59 miles.  Decided to go the extra mile.  I didn't notice it, but I kept getting faster and faster.

PM. 2.65 miles Decided to go more extra miles. :) I volunteered at the Adventure Run.  This was the first time I actually ran it.  Sometimes they have volunteers take groups out for people that are new to the Adventure Run.  They had me go out with a group.  I was hesitant because I had already ran this morning, but I didn't want to look like a wuss.  Also, I didn't want to sweat.  And you guys know how I get when I sweat.

Can you see my incision?

Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 2.59Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 2.65
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From CookieLegs on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 23:10:39 from 67.177.52.10

oh. my. scary.

oh, and good running, too!

From Burt on Thu, Oct 16, 2014 at 23:11:34 from 97.117.247.215

Cookie!

From SlowJoe on Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 07:26:56 from 168.215.171.129

I see it. I'm surprised the surgeon didn't have you take off your shirt before surgery. Seems like it would've been easier, but I guess I'm not a doctor.

From Burt on Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 14:44:15 from 97.117.247.215

I couldn't take off my shirt because it wasn't covered under Obamacare.

From Rye on Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 20:58:14 from 75.167.179.124

You're sick man!

From Burt on Sat, Oct 18, 2014 at 13:53:55 from 97.117.247.215

Well, Rye. If you've got it, flaunt it.

From allie on Sat, Oct 18, 2014 at 16:54:15 from 24.30.41.119

what.

From Burt on Mon, Oct 20, 2014 at 12:11:17 from 184.101.217.140

It.

From allie on Sat, Nov 29, 2014 at 09:27:53 from 24.30.41.119

ATL v AZ

watch out

From Burt on Sat, Nov 29, 2014 at 09:42:23 from 174.17.93.246

A city versus an entire state? How is that even possible?

Total Distance
3.69

I saw Joe walking down the canal today.  Not SlowJoe.  Joe is a guy I go to church with.  He has some mental issues.  He's real nice.  He's just not all there.  The first time I met him was about a week after we moved.  My wife and I went to an adult activity (not the kind you're thinking of) that we have in the church every so often.  Maybe once or twice a year.  As we were driving home, he flagged us down and asked for a ride.  I said, "Hop in, buddy."  It was pretty easy to tell that there was something different about they guy, but he was pretty sharp.  He knew all the streets by heart to get back in his neighborhood.  About a month ago he asked for a ride home from church.  Then he asked if he could come over for dinner.  I told him we were already having company over, but we could bring him a plate.  So later that afternoon when I brought him the food he answered the door in his underwear.  Glad I didn't send one of my girls to the door.

Emily wanted to run with me today, but she got distracted and did something else.  When I got home she remembered that she wanted to run with me so she put her shoes on and made me go back outside.  We just ran up and down the driveway while we blew her "duck whistle".  Then we took our shoes off and laid on the driveway in the shade watching the clouds.  I haven't done that in forever, and it was very enjoyable.  Then I went and cleaned the leaves out of the pool.  After that I took a nice refreshing dip.  Feels good to relax every now and then.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 3.69
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Sun, Oct 19, 2014 at 23:09:19 from 50.186.87.12

Doesn't everyone answer their door in their underwear? You're the weird one.

Watching the clouds...love it.

From Burt on Tue, Oct 21, 2014 at 10:33:31 from 184.101.217.140

No, Tara. They don't. Also, if your seamstress reaches really far up your thigh, that's also not normal.

Total Distance
2.59

My back was bothering me yesterday, so I spent much of the day with my TENS unit.  It was still bothering this morning, but I went running anyway.  I saw Ronnie from RWCD.  He's not a zanjero.  He's in the outside crew.  That man is older than muck.  He drives the Gradall and the weed sprayer truck.  That guy sure can scoop out the muck.  He was spraying weeds this morning on the east side of the east maintenance road.  He didn't see me until I got right in front of him.  The old man got out and we talked about the old days.  I left and saw my sister walking.  Usually she just walks in circles around the cul-de-sac, but I guess today she got a little adventurous.  Glad she didn't get lost.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 2.59
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Sat, Oct 25, 2014 at 14:21:03 from 76.31.29.220

Every day, all over the world, Gradalls are setting a new standard for excavator versatility and productivity.

From Burt on Sun, Oct 26, 2014 at 10:02:51 from 184.101.217.140

That's what I hear.

From Tara on Mon, Oct 27, 2014 at 15:25:10 from 72.253.68.102

Sometimes I sleep with my TENS unit on. I wake up with amazing abs.

From SlowJoe on Mon, Oct 27, 2014 at 18:16:17 from 104.51.208.13

If he's not a zanjero, I'm not interested.

Total Distance
1.43

Just a little run to see how my back would do.  I didn't break in half.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 1.43
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Derunzo on Thu, Oct 30, 2014 at 18:47:41 from 24.218.179.128

Yeah bitch!

From Burt on Thu, Oct 30, 2014 at 19:02:00 from 184.101.217.140

No, I ran with the dog today.

Total Distance
2.46

I wore my brand new shoes so that I could get them dirty.  I took Ginger with me.  I saw some shoes hanging on the power line.

 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 2.46
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Oct 31, 2014 at 12:43:57 from 24.30.41.119

wait underneath those shoes until 3am and you'll find some good stuff.

i can just barely see ginger in that photo but i can tell she is running to the litter box.

From Burt on Fri, Oct 31, 2014 at 13:12:17 from 184.101.217.140

You must think I'm crazy to wait underneath those shoes on Halloween!!!

From SlowJoe on Sun, Nov 02, 2014 at 13:18:35 from 104.51.208.13

In Oklahoma it's unusual to see a power line without shoes on it. It's redneck mistletoe.

From Burt on Tue, Jul 02, 2019 at 19:36:24 from 68.98.75.52

Ha! These are the shoes I'm currently running in. They're almost 5 years old!

From SlowJoe on Wed, Jul 03, 2019 at 06:16:35 from 107.77.105.125

The ones you found on the power line?

From Burt on Wed, Jul 03, 2019 at 09:32:09 from 68.98.75.52

Which pair was I wearing when I walked into that one?

Total Distance
3.69

Glad I didn't bring Ginger with me today.  I passed 7 other dogs.  I'm not counting the two I saw on the other side of the canal.  Lot's of people out today.  And dogs.  Weather is beautiful.  I dressed as a runner today for Halloween.  And let me tell you, it was pretty scary.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 3.69
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rye on Sat, Nov 01, 2014 at 05:25:11 from 63.155.55.6

Quite the imagination

From Burt on Sat, Nov 01, 2014 at 13:30:29 from 184.101.217.140

Creativity is one of my strong points.

Total Distance
1.94

I had every intention of running today, but it wasn't until 11:30pm that I decided I'd better get out the door.  I didn't have time to change, so I just wore the street clothes I was wearing.  I put on my headlamp to practice for Ragnar next week.  I don't like to run on the Sabbath.  I had about 22 minutes before midnight so I decided to run for 10 minutes and then turn around.  Not running on Sundays is a personal choice for me.  It's one of my ways of expressing my devotion to God.  I know some people choose to run on Sundays because they are grateful for their health, bodies, the beauty of the earth, etc.  And that's fine.  One of our greatest gifts from God is our free agency and our right to govern ourselves.  God is merciful and though keeping the Sabbath Day holy can vary in activity from person to person, He does require our complete devotion to which we must put forth the faith and effort to find out what that is.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 1.94
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 08:56:49 from 76.31.29.220

Very nice, couldn't have said it better myself. Which Ragnar are you doing?

From Burt on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 09:15:49 from 184.101.220.34

I'll bet you could have. And hopefully there isn't any false doctrine in there. But I'm doing the McDowell Mountain trail relay. I just hope I'll be ready for the 8.5 mile loop :)

From allie on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 14:01:57 from 24.30.41.119

have fun at ragnar.

From Burt on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 15:10:27 from 184.101.220.34

Thanks, I will.

Total Distance
2.40

I was a little faster than normal today.  I hope that's a good sign.  I'll be running with the Frozen Burrito Legion this Friday and Saturday at the Ragnar Trail McDowell Mountain relay.  I should do a hill run tomorrow.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 2.40
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 19:37:18 from 104.51.208.13

There's a legion of frozen burritos and I'm just now finding out about it??

From Burt on Mon, Nov 03, 2014 at 20:04:22 from 184.101.220.34

Well, if you'd ever check Facebook, you'd know!

Most people say the legion of frozen burritos is a myth, but the conspiracy theorists say it's alive and thriving.

From Rhett on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 13:32:38 from 24.121.0.8

Good luck to the Frozen Burritos.

From Burt on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 13:55:12 from 184.101.220.34

Thanks, Rhett! Maybe some day you'll do a trail Ragnar. Some people like them better because you're not trapped in a van with 5 other runners for 30 hours.

From Rhett on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 14:01:16 from 24.121.0.8

That sounds way better and is exactly why I have never done a Ragnar. The thought of driving around all night in a car with a bunch of sweaty runners sounds repulsive to me.

Total Distance
4.00

I have done zero hill training in preparation for the trail Ragnar I'm doing this weekend.  So I wanted to run Usery Pass yesterday, and I just got too busy.  Finally went today at 11am.  It was warm.  I hadn't eaten breakfast yet.  I brought two water bottles with me.  One with ice water to drink after I was done, and one with a tablet of Nuun, fruit punch.  I felt strong on the first mile uphill.  Then I really struggled on the second mile.  So I turned around.  Felt like a waste to drive 27 miles round trip only to run 4 miles, but oh well.  Going downhill felt great.  In truth, running up Usery in no wise simulates the frequent up and down hills I'll be running at Ragnar.  But better than nothing, I guess.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 4.00
Weight: 1000.00
Comments
From NatalieK on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 14:02:12 from 71.35.217.185

My husband is doing Ragnar this weekend. After hardly any training (like 4 runs in the last 3 months), he asked me this week if its just better to conserve his energy and not try to run this week? :)So if you see a poor, tall, blond haired fellow struggling on the side of the road, pat him on the back for me. Have fun at Ragnar!

From Burt on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 14:06:35 from 184.101.220.34

Ha! Sounds like he'll be doing the Vegas Ragnar. I will be doing the McDowell Mountain trail Ragnar. I don't know why they are doing them on the same day because I would do both. Anyway, I don't pat people on the back at Ragnar. I slap their booties. I always slap at least one stranger's booty during the race. Wish it could be your husband's.

Race: 2014 McDowell Mountail Ragnar Trail (11.5 Miles) 02:18:00
Total Distance
11.50

Ragnar #19. 

I was runner #4 on the team.  My first leg was the green loop, 3.1 miles.  It was hot out at 1:30pm.  I took it nice and slow and felt good.  So good even that I was able to run up the final hill which I wasn't able to do at all last year.  All three loops have that last dreaded hill.  So that was a win.  My buddy Mike was our last runner, runner #8.  He had to do the yellow loop, 4 miles.  A little after mile 2 he rolled his ankle and broke his 5th metatarsal.  He finished up, but he was done.  We decided to continue on and see who was up for covering his last two loops.  My next leg was the red leg at about 10pm.  It was 8.4 miles.  I was stretching before my teammate came in for the handoff and I set my water bottle down.  I totally left it there and forgot it until I was about 100 yards in.  I decided it was nice and cool and I wouldn't need it.  FAIL!  I actually was feeling real good again.  There is a monster hill that I charged right up.  But right before mile 5 everything started to unravel.  I think I was getting dehydrated.  They had a water station, but I had no cup.  So I put my mouth under the jug and drank like an animal.  I hoped it refresh me enough to do the last 3.4 miles.  But I was still cramping up and feeling like I was going to puke.  I just wanted to lie down and take a nap.  There was a lot of walking over the next 2.5 miles.  When I saw the 1 mile to go marker I was able to run for a bit longer.  I couldn't run up the hill this time, but at least I finished.  Yago was our first runner, so he decided to run Mike's next leg and then continue on and do his leg.  Next was our team captain Fredi.  She got to the top of the mountain on the red loop and her knee stopped working.  She had to be rescued.  It took a couple of hours.  After that we decided to call it quits.  We still got our medals, but we'll get a DNF.  It was fun, but I feel bad for my injured teammates.  Been there, done that.  I also apologize for my snoring in the tent.  That tends to happen when I'm not sleeping in my own bed.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 11.50
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 04:50:23 from 104.51.208.13

Sorry about the DNF, what a day...especially the lady who had to be rescued. Glad you are alive. There's a lesson to be learned here, and it has something to do with snoring...I don't know, I'll get back to you when I think of it.

From Burt on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 07:36:03 from 174.17.82.224

Every time I would snore, someone would poke me, so I'd roll over, but as soon as I fell asleep, I'd get poked again. There was no denying me.

From CookieLegs on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:04:40 from 67.177.52.10

Congrats on another Ragnar, Burt, but sorry to hear about the injuries. Hope everyone heals quickly. Oh, and in your honor I ran an uphill mile on Saturday!

From Burt on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:56:22 from 174.17.82.224

In my honor? Ha! You're so funny, Cookie!

From Rhett on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:59:58 from 24.121.0.8

Sounds like carnage and bloodshed at the Ragnar. I'm glad you made it through unscathed Burt.

From Burt on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 10:03:11 from 174.17.82.224

Yeah, people always get hurt running on rocky trails at night. Go figure. I'm real careful, though.

From Burt on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 10:05:09 from 174.17.82.224

Great job, on your half ironman, btw.

Total Distance
1.53

Ragnar recovery run.  Saw one of the gates open for the RWCD canal, which is a no no.  I was about to text the boss when a zanjero pulled up.  I went and told him about the gate and told him I would lock it for him.  Turns out it wasn't an RWCD employee that left it open.  At that location they are interlocked with SRP and Flood Control.  Not sure whose lock it was, but I locked it.

Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 1.53
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rye on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:32:19 from 166.137.246.77

You're confusing me with all your acronyms

From Burt on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:57:07 from 174.17.82.224

Sorry. It's an AZ thing.

From SlowJoe on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 18:15:28 from 104.51.208.13

That was me - I left it unlocked so my party guests could hang out in the canal. Please don't tell the zanjero.

From Burt on Tue, Nov 11, 2014 at 12:18:18 from 174.17.82.224

I don't have to tell the zanjero. The zanjero knows. They're more powerful than Santa Claus.

Total Distance
5.60

I only meant to go 5 miles.  I saw a zanjero at Lateral 3.  Since it's Wednesday that means he would be finishing his 7-day shift in just a few hours.  Then my brother-in-law would be taking over.  I asked him what time my BIL should get there because he typically works the night shift, but this week he is covering for someone on vacation.  Even zanjeros get vacations.  I continued running up to Lateral 1 and then turned and ran back home.  On the way back I saw the crew from the Main Pumping Plant.  Their job is to maintain the pumps at the MPP and the wells that are all through the District.  They were working on the well at 2 - 1/4 and the MC.  I talked to Jason from the other side of the canal since he was the only one I knew.  But he's not a zanjero, so SlowJoe won't have any interest in this part of my entry.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 5.60
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Fri, Nov 14, 2014 at 12:36:37 from 12.182.148.249

Really good zanjeros don't need anyone to cover for them. They can control things with their mind.

Total Distance
2.60

Now that I'm 40 and old, it seems people don't give me a second thought about saying good morning to them.  In fact, they probably expect it from me.
 

Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 2.60
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From SlowJoe on Fri, Nov 14, 2014 at 12:34:19 from 12.182.148.249

Yep, I'd expect you to say good morning, and then hand me a Werther's Original and pat me on the head.

From Burt on Fri, Nov 14, 2014 at 12:43:15 from 174.17.82.224

That's right, sonny boy.

From Rhett on Fri, Nov 14, 2014 at 13:23:42 from 24.121.0.8

40... Old? I never got that memo.

From Burt on Sat, Nov 15, 2014 at 06:10:22 from 174.17.82.224

That's good Rhetty boy. Keep that inbox shut. Don't ever get that memo. Now, about that prostate exam....

Race: 2014 ROC - Phoenix (3.1 Miles) 01:02:00
Total Distance
3.10

This was a fun one.  Our team consisted of me, my daughter, my wife's sister Missy, my wife's sister's friend Daylene, my wife's sister's husband's cousin, and my wife's sister's husband's cousin's son.  We had an 8am to 8:30am start time.  We went in the second wave of that allotted time.  A ton of people did this race.  They needed two days to accommodate everyone.  So there will be more people running it tomorrow.

The first ridiculous obstacle was the World's Largest Moon Bounce.  Next was the Drop, just a big bouncy slide.  Next was the Jump Balls.  You've seen Wipeout?  Similar to that, but not as big.  I fell off the first one and just bounced on the rest.  Missy had a fairly nice wipeout.  Next was the Foam of Fury, basically a foamy slip and slide.  Next, the Sweeper.  This was a balance beam with a sweeper arm that tries to knock you off.  There were two balance beams on each side of the sweeper arm.  One way made you running against the sweeper, the other, running with it.  We chose to go against it.  So, I just crawled underneath it.  I regret not standing there and letting it knock me over.  Next was the Tarzan Swing.  They told us to grab high on the rope.  Good advice, but I was too fat. 

Now we were half way through the obstacles.  My daughter was getting tired, but I urged her on.  The next obstacle was the Gorilla Bars.  Probably 30-feet worth of monkey bars.  My daughter went across by swinging her feet up into the bars in front of her and crawling upside down.  I was able to make it all the way across by going one at a time.  When I got down I noticed I had ripped some skin up from the palm of my hand.  It's like when you have blisters from doing yard work and then you rip the blisters open from doing more yard work a couple of days later.  But my thought was, "You're such a pansy.  You haven't done any physical labor in ages.  How did this happen to you?"  Next was the Tight Rope Traverse.  You have one tight rope to walk across and one about shoulder height to balance yourself.  It was easy at first, but the further I went, the more wobbly it got.  Next was Cool Runnings.  This was my favorite one.  You had to carry an intertube up a giant inflatable water slide.  Since there were six of us, we decided to race each other down.  I raced Missy's cousin-in-law.  I had a slight lead on him until I started bouncing into the wall.  I think we tied.  Next was Get it Up and Over.  This was an 8-foot wall to scale.  There were two boards that stick out about an inch and a half near the bottom to step you up, but the last 5 feet you have to do yourself.  I stepped on one of the braces holding it up to get my fat tummy over.  Next was the Wrecking Ball.  This was right by the finish line, so my wife was there to take pictures and videos.  They hand you a life vest before you go on.  There are rotatating balance beams you have to run across over 4 feet of water while two large red wrecking balls are swinging around in a circle.  I didn't see anyone make it all the way across without falling off the beam and landing in the water.  My wife said she saw a few make it.  I made it about two thirds of the way before the beam got to spinny and I just decidide to let it take me.  The final obstacle/finish line was the World's Largest Inflatable Water Slide.  We decided to race each other again.  This time I raced my daughter.  We were pretty much going down at the same rate, but I slid further than her at the bottom.  Must have something to do with physics.  Anyway, that was it.  We all had a great time. 

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.10
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Burt on Sat, Nov 15, 2014 at 20:31:35 from 174.17.82.224

I can't imagine all the adventures you have in your ultra runs.

From SlowJoe on Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 14:46:43 from 107.77.80.87

Nice job to the Burt family! That all sounds pretty fun. I'm looking forward to the Wrecking Ball video you're about to post.

From Burt on Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 19:52:46 from 174.17.82.224

Unfortunately for you, it's nothing like Hannah Montana's wrecking ball video.

From Rye on Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 21:02:12 from 63.155.63.12

Making it a family affair...Nice. Take care of that hand wimp....

From Burt on Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 21:09:38 from 174.17.82.224

oh my gosh! It hurts so bad right now! I should have cut it off when I had the chance. But I took a nap and then the pus made the flap stick, but now it's drying up around the edges and it hurts! It really, really hurts!

Total Distance
2.60

This morning's run was cold.  My phone said it was 39º, but it's been known to be wrong.  It might have been a little warmer, but that's still too cold for me.  I didn't like it.  However, it only took a half a mile before I remembered that my two extra layers of fat keep me warm once I've been running a few minutes.  So, that's good.  And this was the first time in forever that the entire run didn't feel like a plod.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.60
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From JD on Mon, Nov 17, 2014 at 09:04:35 from 70.96.78.202

i had a pet plod once. i just loved the way it felt.

From Burt on Mon, Nov 17, 2014 at 09:15:01 from 174.17.82.224

I don't know what that is. Have you been hanging out with Richard Gere?

From Rhett on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 10:44:33 from 24.121.0.8

Burt, I agree this weather in the 40s is freezing. It does help for faster running though. At least we aren't in Utah where it is in the teens.

From Burt on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 14:08:16 from 174.17.82.224

Yep. Cooler weather = less work for the heart to cool down the body.

From Rye on Wed, Nov 19, 2014 at 12:06:00 from 174.19.121.174

39.......teens in Utah .......you guys are wimps with the temps in Idaho in the single digits. Cowboy up!

From Burt on Thu, Nov 20, 2014 at 08:34:47 from 174.17.82.224

Why would my daughter want to move there???

From Rhett on Thu, Nov 20, 2014 at 10:15:54 from 24.121.0.8

Teens in Utah? Maybe me son should join them. :)

From Tara on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 15:28:38 from 73.20.0.147

Nice!

Total Distance
3.71

Every day I'm feeling a little faster less slow.

Yesterday was the Adventure Run.  I was the only person out of 400 people to dress up.  It might have been a cruel joke on me.  Anyway, I did run about a half a mile.  I was wearing a sock that was too low and my shoe rubbed a blister on to the back of my heel.  I wasn't sure if it would hinder my running this morning, but I put some Vaseline® on it and a Bandaid®.  It did all right.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 3.71
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 15:36:29 from 73.20.0.147

Wait to add registered marks into those brands!

Only a clown would show up as the only one dressed up. Oh wait...

From SlowJoe on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 16:16:00 from 104.51.208.13

Adventure Runs are serious competitions. For you to just dress up and bleed all over the course...I can't even compose my thoughts, I'm so insulted by this turn of events...

From Burt on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 16:54:53 from 174.17.82.224

Tara - don't you mean "Oh way..."

SlowJoe - I realized why my heel didn't bother me. After blogging and taking my sock off I realized it was full of blood which helped lubricate my delicate skin.

From seeaprilrun on Sun, Nov 23, 2014 at 04:12:49 from 205.172.12.210

Congratulations on fastness and a battle wound!

From Burt on Sun, Nov 23, 2014 at 13:34:36 from 184.101.192.65

Nothing like that time Josse got mega-chaffing from her sports bra.

From Rhett on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 09:18:13 from 24.121.0.8

So what did you dress up as?

From Burt on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 10:00:35 from 174.17.93.246

Picture added for you, Rhett.

From Rhett on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 11:09:31 from 24.121.0.8

Sweet! And you were the only one dressed up. Double Sweet!

Total Distance
2.05

I just wanted a nice easy run this morning because I plan on going to my kid's elementary school tomorrow and put a hurt on all the little kids at the Turkey Trot.  I took Ginger with me.  We were going to run 2.5 miles, but closing in on mile 2 she started to limp.  I stopped her and checked her paws for thorns.  I saw she was bleeding.  So I carried her home.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 2.05
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From KristenRuns on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 11:54:24 from 68.15.2.98

Turkey trot tapering. Show those kids who's fast tomorrow!

From Burt on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 12:20:46 from 174.17.93.246

Ha! I have no doubt that they will be faster than me, at least for the first couple of laps. But I think I can last longer :)

From allie on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 12:48:27 from 24.30.41.119

sad. she wasn't wearing protective boots?

From Burt on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 13:05:27 from 174.17.93.246

No. She usually wears your mother's combat boots.

From Burt on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 13:05:56 from 174.17.93.246

To this day, I still don't know why we used that expression as a cut down.

From Tara on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 13:43:52 from 73.20.0.147

It's tara.

From Burt on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 14:14:55 from 174.17.93.246

No it's not! Tara would never not capitalize her name.

From Rhett on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 08:47:26 from 24.121.0.8

I'm expecting a podium finish from you Burt.

From Burt on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 09:26:20 from 174.17.93.246

I think at least one of the kids beat me. We only ran for 15 minutes and he had a head start. He'll be a good runner some day.

Total Distance
1.67

Today was the Turkey Trot at my kid's school.  They had each grade going at different times.  I have one daughter in 6th grade, and they started at 8am.  Each kid was supposed to carry an index card with them so that each time they completed a lap, they got a letter added to it.  The goal was for them to spell TURKEY TROT.  But when they started my daughter's class didn't have their cards, so I waited with her until she got hers.  By that time some of the kids had already completed one lap.  I was going to run with her for a lap or two, but she stopped running after about 100 feet.  Yes, feet.  So I kept going.  Some times there would be kids passing me.  There were so many that I couldn't tell if they were legitametly passing me or if they were just sprinting and stopping.  I was able to do 7 laps before they called out to stop.  TURKEY T.  By my GPS it was 1.48 miles.  And I did a partial lap for warm up.  I have another daughter in 4th grade, and she was supposed to go right after the 6th graders, but she stayed home sick.  Emily is in 2nd grade so I came back at 12:30pm to run with her.  We didn't run that much, but we went around twice.  Another sweet little girl stayed with us.  She told me that she always helps with Emily.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 1.67
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 17:11:51 from 73.20.0.147

Good job little nut cracker.

From Burt on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 17:26:00 from 174.17.93.246

I woulda done better if I was wearing my har-vest.

From Tara on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 17:32:02 from 73.20.0.147

Where do you find a turkey with no legs? Exactly where you found it.

From Burt on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 at 17:59:57 from 174.17.93.246

Hoo boy! Good one!

Total Distance
5.64

My shoes are stinky.  But I won't retire them until I have at least 800 miles on them!  That's a promise I make to you. 

As I was stretching out before I ran I felt some tightness in my soleus.  I figured it wasn't anything to worry about because I haven't been running very many miles lately.  But a third of a mile in, it hurt to the point where I had to stop and stretch it out.  I didn't want to turn around because yesterday was Thanksgiving and I had plenty of calories to burn.  So I kept going, but slowed way down.  I'm sure I altered my stride which is now causing more aches and pains elsewhere.  Oh well.  I'll get over it.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 5.64
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Nov 28, 2014 at 13:33:23 from 24.30.41.119

stinky shoes, yuckers.

From Burt on Fri, Nov 28, 2014 at 14:57:47 from 174.17.93.246

They probably woulda made your carhouse smell lovely.

From RAD on Fri, Nov 28, 2014 at 23:19:48 from 67.177.62.160

If you would've cleaned the stinky shoes your soleus wouldn't have broken :)

From Burt on Sat, Nov 29, 2014 at 09:41:36 from 174.17.93.246

You might be right, RAD. Or Rachel. But how else am I going to keep my sinuses clear?

Total Distance
2.63

I forgot to blog today.  If you're reading this, today is actually tomorrow.  But I'm writing it today, which is actually tomorrow.  Oh, never mind.  Nice run.  Only a dull ache in my soleus.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.63
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
5.20

I felt real good this morning.  Up until I had about two miles to go and I had to stop at the street to wait for cars.  Then I slowed down.  Technically, I guess I still felt good because I was running slower.  Anyway, with less than a mile to go I saw an old lady walking her dog.  It looked like Ginger from far away.  The dog wasn't on a leash, so it ran up to me.  The lady was real apologetic, but I told her not to worry about it because I have a dog that looks just her (her dog, not her.)  I talked to the old lady for a while.  Her dog's name was Sandy.  I told her about Ginger's bloody paw.  Then I lied to her and told her I wanted to take her dog's picture for my kids, but it's really for you bloggers.  But I'm so old that I consider most of you to be my children.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 5.20
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.10

4.1 for my 41st!  I went south down the Floodway and realized I wouldn't be able to go 2.05 miles before I ran out of Floodway.  So, I had to come up with an alternative route in my head.  Nailed it!

Haven't missed a day all month.  oh yeah!

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 4.10
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Steve Piccolo on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 11:59:55 from 128.187.112.104

Happy birthday and way to go!

From Burt on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 13:02:14 from 174.17.243.46

Thank you, Steve! Miss you on the blog!

From Rhett on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 13:43:19 from 24.121.0.8

Incredible that you have not missed a day all (3 days of the ) month. Happy B-day!

From Burt on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 14:59:33 from 174.17.243.46

I know, right? I'm on a roll!!! Thanks for the happy birthday wishes!

From allie on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 16:27:28 from 24.30.41.119

nice job and happy bday. i can't believe you are 61.

From CookieLegs on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 16:49:31 from 67.177.52.10

Have a happy one Burt!

From Burt on Wed, Dec 03, 2014 at 19:43:55 from 174.17.243.46

allie - BELIEVE IT!!

Adele - Thank you so much for remembering!

Total Distance
3.68

I shouldn't have been bragging about how I hadn't missed a day of running in December.  Yesterday was raining all morning and Emily stayed home sick.  I hoped to go out later in the day, but never did.

Today I thought I'd feel pretty fresh from taking a day off, but I didn't.  At all.  The first 5 minutes was a 10:45 pace.  After I stopped at University to wait for traffic I felt a little better and my overall pace ended up being 9:59.  Slower than lately, but I'm not racing anyone.

It was really beautiful out today.  I run the same route all the time, but because it was so nice out, I really got to enjoy how beautiful of an area I get to run in.  The Floodway had a couple of inches of water in it because of yesterday's rain, and the ducks were waddling around in it.  I didn't think people would be out walking their dogs because they like to let the dogs run around in the Floodway and they wouldn't want to with all the water.  But man!  They were out in droves.  Not in the water, but up on the path that goes along it.  There's a retirement community right next to the path that tends to get inhabited in the winter.  Every poodle in the tri-state area was being walked down that path today.  Geez!

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.68
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Tara on Sat, Dec 06, 2014 at 08:13:38 from 73.20.0.147

Good job getting out and enjoying your surroundindings! I think that's really hard to do on a run that you've done hundreds of times. Good goal for my next run!

From flatlander on Sun, Dec 07, 2014 at 08:09:40 from 76.31.29.220

Nice running, but watch out for the killer poodles.

From Burt on Mon, Dec 08, 2014 at 09:57:37 from 174.26.194.83

Tara - I've seen my face a thousand times in the mirror and am just now noticing the beauty.

Flatty - the duckies will protect me.

From The Quiet Pirate on Sun, Dec 28, 2014 at 15:27:54 from 204.62.111.55

It's nice that there's a nearby retirement community now that you're older and will need to move in soon.

From Burt on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 14:36:13 from 174.26.193.240

That's so true, QP. But can you tell me how there's a tri-state area right in the heart of Arizona???

Total Distance
5.67

I wasn't sure how far I was going to go until I started to go.  I felt like I could do my Lateral 1 run, so I did.  My GPS wasn't working on the way there.  It was tracking my time, but not my distance.  I turned it off at the half way point and cleared it.  When I turned the app back on I could see that it was in the right neighborhood, but it still wasn't quite picking up.  So I rebooted my phone and it worked fine after that.  I saw two pretty ladies on the way back and I was so completely drenched in sweat and embarrassed that I couldn't look at them.  I hope my lack of eye contact made them not be able to see me, too.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 5.67
Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.13

I'm feeling better every day.  My RunKeeper App goes off every 5 minutes and tells me my average pace.  I was pleasantly surprised to hear my pace on the first alert, and I pretty much held the pace.  The fourth mile was a little slower, but not much.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 4.13
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From RAD on Thu, Dec 11, 2014 at 23:09:56 from 67.177.62.160

excellent work, makin' your way back!!

From Burt on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 09:39:41 from 97.117.253.132

Thanks, little buddy. (You should see my big buddies.)

Total Distance
4.08

I ran 2 seconds less than yesterday and 0.05 miles less.  About a quarter mile to go I passed by a lady wearing headphones.  You know that loud voice you make when you're wearing headphones and you can't hear hear  your voice over the music?  That was her as she said, "Are we having fun yet?"

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 4.08
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rhett on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 11:38:43 from 24.121.0.8

Slacker!...running so much less than yesterday.

From Burt on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 12:39:22 from 97.117.253.132

I had no intention of going this far, but I wanted to see if the shopping cart was still in the canal that I saw yesterday. It was.

From Neasts on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 19:55:31 from 65.130.183.4

The lady whose dogs bit me? She was wearing headphones, so you can imagine the volume of her rudeness.

From Burt on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 21:03:30 from 97.117.253.132

Now I hate everyone who wears headphones.

Total Distance
2.62

My leg was real sore again this morning, and about 2 miles in it really began to ache.  On the bright side, there's over 100 ducks in this picture.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 2.62
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Dec 16, 2014 at 17:18:50 from 24.30.41.119

i counted 93

From Burt on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 12:47:46 from 97.117.253.132

You missed the ones looking at you from behind the bushes. The Peking Ducks.

From allie on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 12:56:03 from 24.30.41.119

duck a l'orange

From SlowJoe on Thu, Dec 18, 2014 at 20:18:28 from 104.51.208.13

Silly ducks - that's not a lake!

From Burt on Thu, Dec 18, 2014 at 20:49:56 from 97.117.253.132

Yeah, they're such idiots.

Total Distance
5.67

I only planned on going a couple of miles because my leg still hurts, but I'm getting fat, so I just kept going.  A ten minute mile pace felt right this morning.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 5.67
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rhett on Thu, Dec 18, 2014 at 12:13:58 from 24.121.0.8

You far exceeded that couple miles. You do know that you have to stop eating all the Christmas goodies to stop getting fat. The running only helps a bit.

From Burt on Thu, Dec 18, 2014 at 12:36:29 from 97.117.253.132

Oh, I know, Rhett. Believe me. I know.

Total Distance
3.89

My wife went to my daughters' school to help make gingerbread houses.  So I rode along so I could run home.  It was kind of cold out.  Knowing that I would be running less than 4 miles I decided it wouldn't do any harm to wear a cotton T-shirt to help keep me warm.  I was wrong.

I told you it was cold.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 3.89
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rye on Fri, Dec 19, 2014 at 19:04:54 from 174.27.84.51

I'm not sure what to say Burt...but when you say cold I say you're a wimp.

From T-Rex Runner on Fri, Dec 19, 2014 at 19:54:12 from 99.175.80.179

From SlowJoe on Mon, Dec 22, 2014 at 14:35:09 from 104.51.208.13

Thanks for posting that Burt. I now feel 100% caught up on my blogging, having seen that.

Total Distance
1.30

We've been doing the Twelve Days of Christmas (Secret Santa) for 11 years now.  We pick a family in our neighborhood and my wife's best friend picks a family in her neighborhood.  I had my running clothes on all day, but never got out the door.  Instead I spent most of the day picking citrus off our trees and making juice.  So when it was time to make the 11th delivery this evening, I decided to run home from my wife's BFF's family's house.  Unfortunately, now that we live pretty close to her, it was only a 1.3 mile run.  Oh well.  Better than nothing.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 1.30
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From flatlander on Wed, Dec 24, 2014 at 06:32:33 from 76.31.29.220

Juice mile.

Merry Christmas to you and your family.

From Rhett on Wed, Dec 24, 2014 at 10:38:40 from 24.121.0.8

Merry Christmas Burt. Did you give the juice as the day 11 gift?

From SlowJoe on Wed, Dec 24, 2014 at 13:45:16 from 104.51.208.13

Like you can grow trees in Arizona. Was it on your oceanfront property?

Merry Christmas!

From Burt on Thu, Dec 25, 2014 at 01:19:42 from 184.101.213.142

Flat - Juice mile is better than the beer mile.

Rhett - My wife says we should give the juice away as a gift.

Joe - When I say citrus, I mean needles. And when I say trees, I mean cacti.

From Derunzo on Thu, Dec 25, 2014 at 08:32:18 from 24.218.179.128

Merry Christmas to you and your family Burt.

From Burt on Thu, Dec 25, 2014 at 22:36:19 from 184.101.213.142

Same to yours Funzo. Enjoy some egg nog.

Total Distance
1.43

Since I knew I wasn't running a whole lot yesterday, I picked up the tempo.  That really aggravated my soleus.  Maybe I have a broken bone.  Me no likey.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 1.43
Weight: 0.00
Comments
From Rhett on Sat, Dec 27, 2014 at 12:20:59 from 199.117.154.54

Yikes, I hope nothing is broken. Good luck. Be smart.

From Burt on Sat, Dec 27, 2014 at 19:06:27 from 184.101.213.142

I think I'll just rest on it for about a week. See what that does. :(

From The Quiet Pirate on Sun, Dec 28, 2014 at 15:24:01 from 204.62.111.55

Burt, I'm confused. RAD told me you didn't have a sole. How can it be irritated?

From RAD on Sun, Dec 28, 2014 at 23:09:36 from 67.177.62.160

LOL! I love happening upon comments like that from QP :)

However, I'm having calf/shin issues as well. I'm taking a week off to see if it will heal itself. I certainly hope so, because I've got races in January to get to and I can't take an injury :/ I hope your leg gets better and that we're both running again soon!

From Burt on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 14:27:22 from 174.26.193.240

QP - RAD said I was out of Skoal. We like to dip a few chaws together behind the monkey bars.

From flatlander on Wed, Dec 31, 2014 at 06:37:37 from 76.31.29.220

Feeling any better? Hope your holidays have been great.

From Burt on Sun, Jan 04, 2015 at 16:18:32 from 174.17.89.12

Flat - I am feeling better. I'm gonna go for a run tomorrow and test things out. The holidays were fun. Hope you enjoyed them, too.

Total Distance
358.08
Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Miles: 95.21Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 Miles: 67.08Brooks Ravenna 4 Miles: 40.58Saucony Hurricane 13 Miles: 63.06Asics Gel DS Trainer 17 Miles: 19.20Asics Gel 3030 Miles: 11.55Mizuno X10 Trail Miles: 31.84Mizuno Wave Inspire 10 Miles: 24.56
Weight: 833.33
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