sub-3 or blow-up trying

Sounds like tough conditions. Be careful on that ice. I am still not completely over the fall I took on the ice. You are off to a great start already in 2009 by getting out in such rough weather.

thanks for the word of caution...hope you feel fully recovered soon.

Good job still getting the run in even though you were not feeling it.

Happy anniversary (and New Year)!

Hey 10 miles doesn't sound like whimping out to me. I look at days like these as real bonuses because instead of skipping the run because you didn't feel like it you still recorded 10 miles. This will really pay off down the road. It is easy to run when we feel good. Days like this seperate those who are committed. Happy anniversary!!

Great job putting in the miles regardless. Happy anniversary!

Nice run for squeezing it in. Having a treadmill at home is a great option on rough days. Also, it really cuts down on workout time without having to drive to a gym, etc. I also use mine a lot when my wife is out early and the kids are asleep I can still get in a workout. It is always better to be outside but a great option to keep the mileage up. Hope you enjoy it.

Where did you find the good deal for the treadmill?

A nearby place in Brookly, NY called Premier Gym Equipment Inc. I got a Life Fitness TR500HR, fully remanufactured w/1year parts and labor warranty for $2,095. They even threw in a free 4 x 6 floormat. Their website is www.gymstore.com

You are getting off to a good start this year. Nice run!

Great run, wish we had hills like you do. Naples was great, good base going. How are you feeling, what do you think about the program, use any runs?

Talk soon

Great runs, and very good time management to squeeze in the runs. I used to do this on my double runs to find the extra hour or so. The way your training it will be no time soon before your under a 3 hour marathon.

By the way did you ever get my Boston Time pacing spreadsheet?

thanks...no, never got the spreadsheet...maybe I gave the wrong e-mail...it is dfr-congregation@sbcglobal.net

By the way, I spent some time one afternoon on the computer when I was sick and perused through a few of our "elite runner" blogs. Traced through yours...you've really come a long way in a short amount of time. It was inspiring to see what hard work and patience can produce.

Hope your foot continues to improve!

The treadmill will help. If you adjust the incline to 1.5 or 2.0 this will help make it feel like an outside run. But of course you have no environment to deal with so it's somewhat easier.

Great run. I like doing Yasso 800 even though their really mentally tough for me to get started.

This is a great training session for you good job.

Great workout. Yes, going to hit the mill tonight myself.

Great workout! You are using the treadmill exactly like was suggested in a recent Running Times article. They recommended doing tempos, intervals and hill work on the treadmill when the weather is bad because you don't want to be running that fast on poor road conditions and then go outside for the long runs and easy runs.

Thanks for the comment on my sad entry today. Your 800's rock, I know when I was running those numbers around Naples High School, it felt great. I actually find it less hard to run 800's outside then on the tm but its tough with roads and traffic etc.

I need to figure out how to get your entries sent to my email everytime you enter, I am lazy when it comes to computers etc.

solid

thanks.

I love the "guy talk" here ... very concise!

You have a real solid week going. Hope you are able to get outside for your long run.

The weather is being really pesky or we're just paying more attention because of our plans. You are running strong regardless.

Great run. Strength in numbers when it's freezing cold I say.

Great job on getting the long run in with such rough conditions. Runs like these have to make you stronger. At the very least it is a great mental boast to know that you completed a long run in these kind of conditions.

yeah, thanks Jim! I have to admit that I'm pretty much a wimp when it comes to cold weather. So yes, it was a bit of a mental boost, yet I'm still pretty intimidated by the weather thus far this training season. 32 degrees and up, I'm fine. Anything below freezing, I'm fragile.

And yes, Robert, strength in numbers came through for me today.

Now off to football!

Great workout. Sometimes running by feel is the best training. Somedays your body doesn't want to do speed work and other days your red hot. Choosing wisely is the key. If you have a fatigue factor that progresses several days then you know you've over-trained.

Great workout! Your going to achieve all your goals this year I know it. I did the same thing last year and didn't let the weather defeat my goals and everything came in place.

I admire your dedication and attitude.

Question non-running related (let me know in the future if you would like this posted to your private email instead). How much do you study each week in God's word? Do you study in the mornings?

Kory,

It is fine to post non-running comments on my blog. Thank you for the encouragement and feedback in regards to my running.

I do spend a lot of time in study, preparing for a sermon and 2 Bible studies each week (average about 20 hours per/week). However, I am careful to separate my study time from my daily devotional life. Currently, I have started the new year by committing myself to approximately 2 chapters OT + 1 chapter NT each day (no commentaries, study guides, etc...just ask for God's Spirit to open my ear/eyes and speak to me in a fresh way each day). My new year's resolution has been to strengthen my discipline of journalling (which has been lacking of late). I treat journal time as reflection/meditation/prayer.

I noticed you are doing devotions with your wife. Thank you for posting this. My wife and I have strayed a bit from doing this together. We normally have a devotional time around the dinner table in the evening with family. We have been less consistent with this in the past couple of months. You have inspired me to return to this valuable format in our household.

Oh, and yes, morning is my best time for devotions. Evenings are a good time for me to read other extra-biblical material. Currently, I have just started "The Prodigal God" by Timothy Keller. This book was endorsed by both Billy Graham and Rick Warren.

I believe part of the reason I have become so "hooked" on running is that it has so many parallels to our Christian faith. My challenge is to keep the proper balance and enjoy this outlet to the fullest. - 1 Tim. 4:7-8

Thanks for the information. I just finished reading the whole new Testment which took a while. Now I feel I need to read one book from the Old Testment and one book from the New Testment to keep that fresh. I feel through prayer that's where God is leading me.

I've read the books "The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church", by Rick Warren. Lately I haven't read anything outside the Bible which is bad, because it is something I could do.

Running is great and when you keep the balance. It does make you feel good, and your taking care of your body which is the Temple of GOD. Hopefully, I can get that balance back and not feel the addictive need to run.

You've really excel and like I said if you stick to your strategy you will achieve all the goals you want.

Warren's books are solid. He's taken some flack from the press lately for standing up for his values...more power to him. Other reading is nice, yet you're wise to keep your Bible reading a priority. I have the luxury to give additional time due to my full-time profession.

You are getting in another solid week. You are doing a good job of mixing the treadmill running with getting outside which is great this time of year. Going to be a rough week weather wise.

Thanks...yes, it is a tough week. How's it been in your area?

It's hard to gauge improvement levels with the cold and ice. I'd love to be able to just run on the track a bit in descent weather to figure out where I am. May not get that luxury until March.

I need to follow your lead and not stress to much on checking off the each day on the 2:50 program. I was a bit down because I could not get those mile repeats done when I should of realized it was an off day and just ran something easy. Going to try and read your entries, your a more mature runner than I am.

Julian is such a great kid, I was really proud of him and after its all said and done it was a special bonding day for us today at the hospital.

Mile repeats or tempo tomorrow.

20 this Saturday but for the first time I am really going to try and run nice and easy.

Glad Julian's ok. Experiences like that keep the whole running thing in perspective. Good luck on the long run this weekend!

Does the cold ever leave CT? I don't get around to reading your blog much, but I enjoy it when I do. Good job on the run. I went out with three fellow bloggers this morning, and it was a nice 50 degrees out.

Burt, that's a good question. Never really thought about the cold in CT until I got into running. At this stage, I just appreciate a string of a few days in the 20's. Wow, 50 degrees sounds awesome! Hope you were able to enjoy it.

Burt,

Just looked at your blog and saw you have 6 kids...God bless you! We've got the same...all girls! Good luck on your training. Looks as though the weight is going down as well as your times. With patience, you'll be amazed with the progress you will make...4:59 mile in HS? I've never gotten close to that time.

My oldest is a boy and the rest are girls. I'm hoping to get my weight down to 190 if not under.

I just typed my run for this morning and it didn't save. It took forever, so I'm bummed about doing it again. I'll do it later, though. Have a good one.

Your making leaps and bounds.

Can't wait for a break in the weather.

Very strong run! Good pace on a hilly route. The long runs will be key to Boston and I hope the weather cooperates for you.

Great run.

Thanks guys...25 degrees seems like 50 when you've been close to zero for several days.

Great effort and your just starting the long runs.

I really think you can run close to 3 in Boston.

Todd,

Thanks...I think the key towards a sub-3 for me will be weight loss. If I lose 10 1bs I may have a shot. I'm estimating 10 lbs could shave 10-15 seconds per mile. I've started to eat better and have shifted my weight-lifting to higher reps.

Ahhh, you forgot to ask for an Ipod for Christmas didn't you? :) I always seem to feel worse on recovery days. Probably 80% mental.

You're running strong. I always felt the lighter weight made a big difference on the hills, but not so much on flat ground or intervals.

Interesting...I've noticed in road races I pass alot of folks going downhill and get passed quite a bit going uphill. Something I really need to work on and I think I'm starting to improve.

Do you have a most comfortable weight for running? I lost 25-30 lbs quick and have maintained for a few months. Could easily drop more, but it takes so much discipline (I love good food). I'm one of those people who could easily gain 10 lbs while putting in 70 mile weeks.

You have the right idea. Something in the low 170s works well for me. I've tried to go below that (160-165 goal), but my body was resistant. Speed work was suffering, I became more light headed during the day, poor sleep quality, crabby around the house, and other negative indicators. Looking back, some of it could have been poor fuel timing (food quality was very good), but I felt like I was slowly declining. Probably the reason experts recommend weight loss in the off season. Easier said than done though. I would like to give it another shot, but just like you, I really need to tighten the screws if I want to go lower.

Jealous of your miles logged this week, feeling guilty this week. Lots of short power runs so I am hoping to run at least three 10 mile runs in a row to finish off the week. If you look at the 2:50 program at week 8 the LT run is crazy this will be the first scheduled run in this program that I will not be able to meet. I will try and modifiy somehow but the weather is really cold once again for the weekend.

I am really impressed with your progress.

Good job with the 20 miler. This is still early in the Boston prep so just look at it as a good base distance run. As you continue to improve the endurance through solid training miles, the pace will come.

Great work gutting it out.

In Florida I did my first long run in awhile and I struggled. But here is the good news I have run only 4 total ranging from 17-20 and last weeks tm run was so much easier and today I felt like I could have held around the 7 min mile for at least 20 so its coming and what you did today will be your toughest long run before Boston, Mentally that is.

Feels so good to get outside but we are dropping in temp again tonight so I hope to get a 10 tempo in on the tm and 10 at least sunday outside. Next week is 22 miles easy and then its time to get into progressive long runs my fav.

Have a good weekend.

Todd

thanks guys,

This one was definitely a mental challenge.

Great job Dave. The first 20 after a break is always a bear.

Good job on getting in the 20 miler.

This time of year all 20 + mile runs are good and like others have said getting that first one in is a big mental boost.

If a pair of shoes don't feel good when you first put them on then there not a good pair to buy. Be very careful to buy the right shoe for your arc.

Also about running in the cold weather, it's more difficult on your muscles because it takes more energy and effort to get them warmed up. It's easy to see why anyone doesn't perform better in the cold weather. Injuries tend to happen more in the winter, because we don't properly stretch or warm-up.

Have a great sermon tomorrow.

Had a great family day, hope you enjoyed yours as well. Going to try and gets some miles under my feet this week. Last long easy one before progressive long runs. I need to get more miles like you do. Have a good week.

Todd

Good luck as you begin to ramp up the miles. Great speed work today!

kids in bed and Sarah is sick with the flu in bed so I thought I would go and run an easy 6 miles which was a disaster, managed only 4, what a difference from this afternoon when I was flying. I need to learn how to run under marathon pace and not panic! At least its 4 more miles on the feet.

Good run today, wish I could fly down thursday night run 22 with you and be back for saturday.

I still have not booked the Boston flight, keep forgetting. The hotel is right at the finishing line, excited for that. Where are you staying and who are you going with? Sarah is staying home to run the practice, she would rather vacation with me when I am not running, not much of a vacation for her and I really don't mind, will be with my running partner Giancarlo who I do a lot of long runs with.

Good run today.

My wife and all 6 children are coming. We'll stay in Quincy (south shore) where much of my wife's family lives. Her cousin used to own the Adam's Inn and was able to provide our family with a suite big enough to accomodate all. We'll get in on Sat and leave on Wednesday.

Sorry about the illness...got some in our family as well. Nice job getting a double in today. I hope to start doing doubles soon. We're getting a TM in on Thursday. Keep up the good work!

Great way to start off the week. That is a strong pace on both 5 milers!

Great speedwork....you are an inspiration... my goal this year is to get a BQ....I'm working on getting a good base ...any suggestions.

Brian,

Thanks. First, taking a look at your blog, you've come a long way...very impressive. Your first marathon was much stronger than mine. With continued dedication and work, your BQ aspiration does seem to be attainable. It looks as though some of your lifestyle changes have made a big difference in your running. Diet has been key for me.

At this stage, keep building your base. Consistency is huge. Work towards consistently running 5-6 days a week and make sure to build up the mileage very gradually.

Initially I didn't start any "speed work" until I was comfortably running 50-60 miles per/week. Once the mileage is comfortable, add a day of running mile repeats or "tempo runs". I learned how to do this by reading blogs of folks who are faster than me (take advantage of the "discussion forum" to gain insight. If one day of "speed work" gets manageable, add a second. Also, "recovery days" are huge. You should rarely, if ever, run two fast days in a row.

Finally, learn your own limitations and always be ready to adapt. There are days I set out to run fast, but change my workout due to stiff legs or a lack of energy. There's nothing wrong with shortening a workout or slowing it down-you'll benefit from it the next day. Notice lots of the aggressive runners on this blog get injured. Injuries can be avoidable.

Brian, I really feel if the desire and dedication is there, you'll eventually reach your goal. Maybe this year, but if not, continued patience and perseverance will get you there. Good luck and look forward to seeing your progress!

Thanks so much for your advice....I agree on concentrating to build a solid base and doing it gradually....its been a past problem for me trying and put too many miles in on a week were I felt good...and then the following week I had to decrease my mileage considerably, so now I'm trying to increase my mileage by about 10% per week to the point were I am running a consistent 50 miles a week. At that point, i will take your advice and incorporate some speed work into my training.

Good luck in Boston...and thanks again!

Sorry about the weather and the sickness in the family. Sometimes a break can be a good thing. You have been working real hard so one day is not going to set you back any. It might just make you stronger for upcoming workouts.

We got blasted pretty good as well. I will probably be on the treadmill for a few days. Hope the family gets to feeling better.

I hope your family gets well soon. Don't be hard on yourself. 60 miles is a solid week in light of all other responsibilities.

thanks guys...it's been a trying week, but I still feel quite blessed.

Looks like you more than made up for the day off yesterday. Way to come back strong!

Thanks Jim,

Having been inside for a couple day, mostly attending to the ill, I had a lot of bottled up energy.

Thanks for that advice.....and its worth much more than 2 cents!!

How long should my recovery day run be?

Usually my recovery day is close to my daily average (8-10 miles for a 70 mile week). So for a 60 mile week, I'd probably do 6-8 miles unless you're feeling it a little bit, maybe 4-5. If you keep the pace nice and slow and keep proper form, you'll probably find these recovery runs actually make you a stronger runner.

Trying to get to 70 this week, going to try and get 22 slow Sunday and 8 quick tomorrow which will bring me to 68.

Wish today was Boston, I felt like the energy bunny.

Are you running a long one this weekend?

Todd

Todd,

Yeah, noticed some strong running this week on your blog...nice work!

I did a 20-miler last weekend, so I'm looking to do 16-18 this weekend and another 20-miler next weekend. Hope to keep the 20-mile pattern every other week until we're about a month out from Boston.

Good plan, I still need to chill out if I happen to run anything over a 7 min mile. When I see anything in the 7's I seem to panic.

Experience..................

Have a great weekend.

Nice job on eating a healthy diet! Looks like it is starting to show up on the scales. This is something that I need to work on. I usually eat pretty good but I got into some bad habits during Christmas break and I have not changed since. You are starting to give me some motivation though.

Jim,

Thanks...this is far more difficult for me than running. I love food! However, I've found once I get into a pattern of healthy eating, it definitely makes me feel good. I still eat alot, but less at a time and far more healthy. Today I've already had 4 "meals" (haven't even gotten to dinner).

Yes, way too polite. But it is so hard to follow courtesy rules (speaking up respectfully) when others are breaking them. If you figure out how to do it, let me know, ok? lol Hope you get the better run soon. :)

thanks...got the better run in this evening. Keep up the good work- looks like you had a great January.

Nice workout today... and nice of you to have patience at the gym. The most have been tough. What model Treadmill did you get?

Thanks...we got a Life Fitness 9500, fully reconditioned- sanded, painted, new engine, tread, everything up to date. It looks and feels new...better than any of the machines at our gym. Saved about 65-70% retail of what a new one would cost and it has a full year warranty.

Now that's a day of living.

Great work.

From the sound of things, you're going to need a day of recovery today. Way to fight through those last couple miles. Those are the ones that will put you under 3 hours for the marathon.

Todd,

Yes it was a full day and a wonderful one. Way to pump in 14 miles within a small window of time.

Plumbcrazy, looks like you got a descent run in as well...nice work!

Wow, only two handfuls! I think I ate enough food for three people! How do you do it? I can't get my mind off of food.

It all depends on how you define 2 handfuls. I guess I did ok, but have been trying to keep away from the junk.

Ya I think we should get hills in even if its an easy run. Your kicking butt regarding your diet, I love to eat. I would like to be 145lbs starting Boston probably about 149 right now.

Run well this week, I have to fight a cold off.

Nice tempo run! Keep running strong and focusing on the endurance for Boston.

Now let's see what you can do with the right size equipment!

thanks Jeff! Boston's creeping up on us.

Great tempo's. Yes, the cold weather makes it hard to really run like you want to.

Nice tempo Hot Foot!!

Great tempo run! Looking good for Boston.

thanks guys...the encouragement helps in keeping motivated.

Nice long run, your training is going great. 20M and still feeling good, can't beat that. Keep it up and you will rock Boston!

Have a great weekend.

thanks Jeff...winter's not the easiest time to be doing this, yet I think I survived the toughest stretch mentally. Enjoy your weekend as well!

Great run at a strong pace! Winter running is tough. Hopefully some of this good weather we are having will head your way.

Great run. Your going to kill Boston and come away feeling good. My devotion today was about praying for others and their needs. I'm going to pray that you have great success in Boston as well as Jeff Shadley, and JimF.

Thanks guys! Jim, my hope is that this cold has made me a stronger runner for when and if that good weather does come our way. Kory, your prayers are very much appreciated.

Nice run.

10 weeks!!!

Your ahead of the game.

Todd

Good idea on the food. Be good and eat reasonably, but my experience has been when you start pushing the mileage up, you are hungry all the time and can eat like a horse and still not gain weight (or most likely keep losing it!).

thanks for your input on this Jeff. As I was beginning to successfully lose weight, I felt short on energy 2 weeks in a row on the long-run. This week I ate more on Thurs/Friday and had a much more successful 20-miler on Saturday. Glad to have lost the weight, but need to be careful not to over do it. May focus more on the weight loss after Boston, when the mileage is down and do it very gradually.

Trust your body, you know what is healthy and we run to live so indulge here and there. Last night I could not sleep so I went downstairs and had a bowl of cereal, my god it was the best cereal I have ever had.... We work hard and deserve to eat all the great food that god blesses us with.

I have read a lot that people overtrain for Boston and don't consume enough calories leading up so I think we need to put as much healthy food in as possible over the next 10 weeks and the occational chocolate almond, etc...

Run well this week, weather is nice.

Nice workout -- I struggle doing anything reasonably quick.

thanks...some days are more challenging than others.

Nice workout. Working through the sluggish portion is what makes you tough the last 6 miles of a marathon. Great workout.

Solid mileage and good workout. Don't be discouraged, these runs build character and give you motivation to continue to work hard to reach your goal.

getting the miles in because you motivate me, thanks.

as soon as the hill, only hill dries up I am going to marry that hill for the next 6 weeks. i also plan on running some easy runs down hill, meaning putting something under the treadmill for 6-10 miles then the next day I will run hills.

Friday is the first progressive run - 12 miles around 7:15 then I want to run at least 6:52's if not 6:40's for the last 5 miles.

Your grinding it out this week, nice especially yesterday's run.

Todd

iron sharpens iron...right? Great to see you working hard.

I hope the ankle heals quickly. You are a frugal consumer and that's important in these economic times.

I'm not very fond of the tread mill, but I find it great for speedwork and hills, but its so boring!....especially longer runs.

Going to try and get one day per week of speedwork in and keep my base of 60 plus miles...feeling quite good right now.

Great run this morning on the fun Treadmill. Double runs are really good to build endurance and strength in your running ability. It also helps the body from not being sore after long runs.

Curious, what's the size of your church? Our church is less thean 50 people.

Kory, thanks. The double workouts are new to me, so I'm still getting a feel for the new schedule. At first I was getting a little wired in the evening, yet I'm definitely starting to adjust.

Our church venture has been a real leap of faith for our family. We spent 10 years at a large, evangelical church in Southern CA (4,000 members). There were tons of programs, Bible studies, small groups, youth activities, etc. Before being in CA, I spent my seminary years in New England where most of the churches are very small and "reserved". My wife and I felt convicted to some day return to New England and either "plant" or step into a "mainline" church and preach the Gospel. So here we are now in CT (just finishing 3rd year). Our average attendance is probably 140 + 40-50 children in Sunday school. It's a different culture up here, yet we feel confident that this is where God wants us for now.

So you've done some preaching?

Yes, I had a Lay Minister License through our Church (Living Waters Christian Fellowship) which is under the Church Of God of Prophecy. I've let my Lay Minister License expire about a year and a half ago, and haven't preached since.

I really let the word of God slip out of my life for the past year not really studying and that really affected me at church.

God has called me to preach, and that's what I want to get back into slowly. I'm in no hurry. I really let God down by not studying. I didn't backslide or anything and have kept going to church, but my heart wasn't into it. My spiritual walk really wasn't the best.

I really believe running took a lot of my life and I made that too much of a priority, and in some ways destroyed me.

But I have a new fire for God and have been studying quite a bit, and with God's help I'll be only where he wants me to be. I'm trusting the Lord and will take it day by day.

Sorry so long.

Sorry this is so long.

I think you're wise not to rush into things. Also, I relate with your struggle with priorities. Sports used to consume my life (still can if I'm not on guard). Now I still enjoy staying active, and definitely have a competitive streak, but have learned to used sports as an outlet to glorify God. Did you see the article in Runner's World on Ryan Hall? He spoke of his transition from a runner who happened to be a Christian to a Christian who happened to be a runner. His identity no longer depends on "winning gold".

I wouldn't beat yourself up for disappointing God. He's amazingly patient with us. You must have a gift for preaching and He will still use you in perhaps small (maybe even big), but mighty ways.

No need to apologize for length. I've appreciated the dialogue. Your faith is admirable.

Kory, Dave, don't mean to jump in on your conversation but Kory I saw that you go to the Church of God of Prophecy and that is the church that my wife was raised in and we went to when we first got married. I know it is not a large denomination so it caught my eye when you mentioned it. When we moved we started going to an Assembly of God church but my wife still knows a lot of people from the COGOP. I will second what Dave said. You seem to have a great heart and I am sure that the Lord will use you in a great way!

Wow Jim! What a small world. I've gone to COGOP my whole life. I've gone to the Assembly of God several times for special speaker events, and we've even held events together.

Thanks for the encouraging words. I don't have to preach to make me happy. In fact I don't really want to preach, but if that what God puts in my heart I will do that. But this is a long way off because I'm patient and only want what God wants.

By the way i love the Assembly Of God church. In fact that's where my 9 year old daughter goes for Youth on Wednesday nights.

Jim

I am Kory Wheatleys wife Where did your wife attend COGOP.

She grew up in Somerset, KY and went to Southside COGOP. We were married in Indianapolis at the Hoyt Ave COGOP and attended there for about 4 or 5 years before we moved to the Assemblies of God church that we go to now. She had several friends that went to Tomlinson College and attended a lot of the General Counsels. I grew up Methodist so it was quite a change for me when I started going with her but really loved the people at these churches and we have a lot of good memories from there. I'm sure she could tell you a lot more because she knew most everyone and was very involved. If you want I can pass along her email.

Have fun at the race!

Have a great race and eat those hills for breakfast!

Frustrating race, but in the end you gave yourself a great workout. Good job.

Great job. Are you anywhere close to the Bermuda Triangle. Because if you are it would make sense that you may have run through a time warp. I'm just throwing ideas out there.

Great job on running a good paced run. Too bad the RD had the course and race so confused. 5:17 pace? You just stepped it up my man! ;-)

Nice day of running!

Excellent race! Sorry to hear about the problems with the race but this shows that your training is paying off and you will be ready for Boston!

Thanks guys! Overall I had a great experience and the funds went to a wonderful cause. Frustration might be an overstatement...I'm just so curious as to what my time really was. Think I was close enough to a ballpark picture (definitely 6:20ish range), felt very satisfied by a great training run, and will no doubt have several future races to establish pr's and know my exact time...one step closer to Boston.

Great race, sorry about the missed turn, that must have been rough on the legs and the mind. Way to be the tough guy in the cold weather :)

Maybe you can find someone with a GPS watch to tell you the actual distance. Either way, good job!

thanks...found someone who confirmed mile 5 was only .8 miles. Now I can put my mind at ease.

Hope you are having/have a good long run this weekend.

Thanks for the compliment, felt good to run a progressive long run even if I did not run the last 5 miles at 6.30's, it also felt good to not really look at the watch for the last 5 miles and just trust that I was going at a decent pace without racing.

I really have taken the pressure off me for Boston, I really want to take it in. Sarah my wife told me about the word Enthusiasm, which simply means En = in or with and Thusiasm = with god so I just need to be enthusiastic about my running and everything will be just fine. For some reason this really resinates now.

However that does not mean I don't want sub 3 but I think you know what I mean.

Talk soon.

Todd

Thanks for your encouragement....I really feel like I'm getting stronger with the increased mileage, and I will gradually build on the speed....and hopefully, stay injury free!

Brian

Todd, it's good for me to hear that kind of perspective. My running partner has been emphasizing your same point as well. He keeps reminding me of athletes who made it to a big game, never to return again (World Series, Superbowl, etc.). Ed keeps saying, "enjoy and drink in the Boston experience". Also, I like your wife's insight in regards to "enthusiasm". I once heard a Christian athlete (David Robinson) describe "enthusiasm" as "the ability to see God in a situation". Thus, he plays every minute with "enthusiam". I'll still shoot for sub-3, but will no doubt enjoy the experience even if I run a 3:20. We are very blessed to be in position for running Boston!

Brian, keep up the good work!

You're running like a champ!

Thanks....and great job on your long one today....wish I could run that pace...in my time, hopefully. I plan on doing a 10 miler...easy pace tomorrow...too much? what do you suggest.

Take care

Brian

I plan on doing 10 real easy as well- whatever feels comfortable (as fast as 7:30 or possibly as slow as 9min). If you feel alright and can keep good form, you should be fine. I'll probably break mine into two chunks 6/4 or 5/5. Most injuries occur when form gets a little lazy or sloppy.

You are right that this is a big step forward. This should give you a lot of confidence heading to Boston.

Nice work. It feels good when you nail a work-out. This gives you the confidence to know that you can nail the rest of them.

Keep the confidence high that's a big key.

I really think you have a good chance at sub 3 but we both know you will enjoy the dance regardless.

Godd run

Good recovery run. Way to stay patient and keep the pace slow after such a great run yesterday. You'll find the more MP miles you do the easier they become in your runs.

God is really going to bless you in Boston. I'm going to pray that you excel in Boston and that the angels lift your legs up like feathers so your light on your feet!

I love the Tangents and have used them for all of my races since the beginning of last year. I have a pair of 1's and 3's and the 3's are super light and offer me plenty of support.

Keep up the great workouts.

Nice job, I like my Mizuno Elixirs for what it's worth. Enjoy the Tangents.

I love the Saucony T3's and I use them on my long runs. Their light and a good trainer.

Nice to hear a good review on the tangents.

Good job on the work out! Keep up the hard work and you will do great at Boston.

Good decision to take it easy and let the body recovery. You will come back stronger once the legs are rested and ready to go.

Love the way we feed on each other. You really made me think when you mentioned about how close we are to tapering, wow, exciting.

Todd

A nice week of running for you!

I too am going to cut back next week as my last 3 weeks have been pretty high and I am feeling tired. A week off then hit March hard!

That is exactly my mindset as well...hit March hard! Praying for the sun to shine and our track to clear. I wish you continued progress in your training...maybe mix in a little AC/DC and old Van Halen with your Def L. collection.

Again impressive day. God's going to bless your hard work in Boston. Did you hear that Ryan Hall is going to run Boston.

Kory,

Thanks! I did hear that Ryan Hall will be running. Very exciting! I admire his faith.

Keep my diet in your prayers. It's easy for me to give 110% physically, but then I find myself just absolutely starved. My weight's gotten as low as 175lbs and then I eat my way back up to 180. Maybe I shouldn't worry all that much (this is the lowest I've weighed since age 15), yet I'd love to be a bit lighter for Boston.

I will keep you in my prayers. Have you tried eating 5 small meals a day? This helps keep your metabolism going and exactly burn fat to keep your weight down.

God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers. You've really helped me and I will do so in return.

I've still got issues with my stomach that I'm praying about as well so I'll remember you too.

1/2 hour of crunches! My abs would be sore for a month if I tried that. I really need to work on my core more. I have read so much about but just need to get into the routine.

BTW, I am up in your neck of the woods this week (Portsmouth, NH). Looks like you all have had a recent snow. Making it tough to find roads to run on because there is quite a bit of traffic around and shoulders are snow covered. Hopefully, you are having better luck.

Yeah, welcome to New England. Somehow I missed this post, but trust you figured a way to make the most of things.

Nice run! Have a good race this weekend! Your training is looking awesome to hit a sub 3 hour Boston.

Great run! Amazing how the body responds to some rest that shows the training is paying off and like Jeff said you are looking great for Boston.

Thanks guys...I'm definitely starting to feel the improvement. And yes, it is amazing how one can respond to rest.

Good luck in the race this weekend!

Good luck Saturday!

Why a 3 week taper for Boston?

I'm still novice...what do you suggest? I was thinking to peak in the 90's, then 70's,50-60, and then of course the week of. My last planned 20-miler is 4-weeks out.

Thanks, and good luck this weekend!

Dave, when is your peak? If it is 5 weeks out, based on what your are showing that really is not a 3 week taper but rather a traditional 2 week taper. Your plan looks pretty good at a high level.

Jeff,

I guess I'm still learning to speak the language. My peak is 4-5 weeks out, so maybe I really am doing just a 2-week taper.

Dave and Jeff,

I saw this and thought you might be interested. It is Bill Rodgers talking about how to run the Boston course. Here is the link: http://www.runningtimes.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=15815.

Good luck this weekend!

Jim

Thanks! I just listened to it and was well worth the time. Living 3 hours from Boston, I've been contemplating doing my final 20-mile run on the course. He seemed to indicate how familiarization can make a difference.

Thanks and run well tomorrow sounds like a great opportunity to improve your pace for Boston, think that during the run.

I really feel I would have had a chance to break 3 hours today, only concern was I had no drink the entire run so my calves were a bit stiff so it would have been a risk.

I am happy because a pb (309)in Boston looks like a strong possibility now.

Regarding tapering, I will run hard until 2 weeks out, I am running a half marathon April 5th I think then will take it easy. I am not big on tapering but then again I am not going to run any weeks over 65 miles where you are. My time won't allow it and I think because I basically don't ever run over 6:52's I can't take many more miles then 60 a week.

Getting excited. Can't find a flight under $575, oh well its Boston.

Have a great weekend.

Todd

Great job on the race. I didn't think the Boston hill's where bad, but I am from Utah where everywhere you turn you are running up a hill. I remember finishing them and thinking that is all. Oh come on, I can do more. But if you are use to the hills you cruse past people going up and down the other side.

Great race! Sounds like a really tough course and the wind doesn't help either. This has to be a good preparation for Boston which will probably be much easier on the hills.

Congratulations on a great race!

Great job finishing a tough race. I would consider those "fast miles".

Congrats on a strong race and a good prep for Boston!

Thanks everyone!

Congratulations on an excellent race over a tough course.

There is a good course tour of Boston on Youtube if you're interested: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKzYA39PSRY

Great job. You always impress me.

thanks snoqualmie...just watched the youtube. From the vantage point of a car, didn't look too intimidating.

Burt, thanks. I really love how this blog allows folks to feed off one another.

Missed your long run, how did it go? I need to get you set up with my email, never have time with the kids, how do you manage 5!! Had a great family day yesterday and really was not motivated to run but the 20 was fun on Friday.

There is a 5k race next Sunday might see if I can put some TM times to the road.

Have a good week.

Todd

No long-run, but ran a half marathon on a killer course. Kept a 7min pace which on most courses would probably translate to 6:35-40 pace. Most the people I knew ran 3-6 minutes slower than their normal half-marathon times. Felt strong at the end, so definitely a good work-out for me.

Great job getting out for your 20! And yes, 5 is challening, along with our 2-year-old which makes 6. Keep up the great training...you'll probably set a pr on your next 5k (and hopefully Boston as well). I'm so ready for Spring...we just got a foot of snow last night.

Our Elliot who is almost 2 is a riot, more relaxed in my old age and quite enjoy the weekends. I started working on Saturdays from 9-12 which forces me to do my long runs on Friday but I love not having the stress of a long run for the weekend.

There is a 5 k race next Sunday, I am going to do it, excited especially after today's 5k on the TM.

Hope I have the opportunity to meet your family at least breifly in Boston.

Todd

We'll be in Boston from Sat-Wed. I'm sure we can arrange something.

Sorry about the snow. Hopefully it will warm up and melt away quickly. I was supposed to go to DC today but all flights cancelled. Nice way to start off the week!

Yeah, I'm starting to get used to it. It would be nice for it to melt, so I can get some track work in before Boston.

I don't know how you do it on the TM. I think that takes a lot more commitment and determination than running in the rain or snow.

You're going to do well in Boston.

Good job getting in what you can. It is always a balancing job between work, family, running, etc. You seem to have a good mix so I wouldn't stress much about the running. You have been building a strong base and it will pay off in Boston.

Thanks guys! The TM has helped me tremendously through a tough winter. I'd much rather run outside, and yes, the TM can be challenging, yet there have been days in which the TM is the easy way out.

Nice run and great mileage. Sorry about the Trigons, I love them as well. Sometimes you just get a bum pair of shoes!

You are getting in a great week of running and the mileage is way up. Probably when your body adjust the faster stuff will feel easier.

Thanks,

Getting easier to keep the pace under 7 min miles, just hope one day I can do it for the entire 26 miles!

Switching to Muzuno's, always excited with new shoes.

Talk soon.

Good run. I hear you on trying to add speed while adding miles. I think I need another 1-2 months of 70+ before I could get real serious about speed work and not feel like I was going to blow up.

Wow, I agree...great run! Awesome mileage for the week!!! Your training is superb, you are looking so great for Boston!! I wish I had your weather for my long run today.

Robert, thanks. And yes, at least a month or two to really get adjusted for significant speedwork. Spring marathons are so challenging to train for!

Jeff, thanks. I was like ready to take a week off by the end of this morning. Now I'm disciplining myself not to hop on the TM this evening. The weather was amazing...nice job on getting yours in on a crappy day.

Awesome run and great week of running. Hard to do much speed off of a 90 mile week but this will pay big dividends for you down the road.

Nice work, I am positive that your workout and the mile repeats you plan on doing will help in the later miles.

Leg turnover will get us there faster its a fact.

5 weeks and its over then what.............................................. For me it will be a sub 3 for the fall because I don't plan on Boston being sub 3. Also want to work on some pb's for the local races, really enjoyed yesterday's race.

Funny, I sent a blog the same time you did.

Good work today.

Thanks.....and I agree, I should not run back to back 20 milers....its just that the long run is my favorite...I look forward to it....love the distance and the outdoors and the pain....I must be crazy! But I will have to exercise some restraint in order to avoid injuries or burnout....will try double run days on alternate weeks...see how that goes, and get serious about speed work now that the weather is improving.

Thanks again.Brian

Brian,

I should also practice what I preach...have snuck an extra long one in or two over my training. So far I've been lucky.

Todd,

yeah...I'll need a good couple weeks to determine my next goal. I've been training for marathons for over a year now. Two or three weeks of full rest will be valuable for my body. Hopefully by May 20th, I'll have a sense of my next phase of training. I'll see how Boston goes, rest feels, and then work from there.

Nice speedwork. Mixing in some speed and hills at this point is good along with working to maintain the endurance. Don't try to do too much coming into the home stretch and peak mileage weeks though otherwise injuries can occur. With additional speedwork, be sure to run good recovery runs as well.

Boston here you come!

If your feeling tired I really won't run too much tonight, because running when your tired can't benefit your fitness or form. Trust me I know from my flaws.

Great week so far.

You're showing great dedication! I'm hoping to get my legs snappy as well, but running out of time.

70 miles in 5 days is awesome!

I agree with Robert. It was an awesome week and the hills in Boston will probably seem like nothing compared to your training.

Thanks, feeling solid but we don't have any hills here so all my hills are on the TM, not the same. Regardless I feel if I can keep running like this the strength will eventually get me a sub 3. Again looking forward to taking the Boston experience in, we really have worked hard for it. But I also know with the amount of effort we have both put forward anything over 310 will be a bit of a dissapointment. Not long now.

Sounds like it was an awesome day. I love running hills.

60°? I'm jealous! It snowed here again today. I'm ready for spring.

Nice weather. Glad to see that you listen to your body and not push anything. Hills can fatigue your body, but the training really pays off in your final race.

I go to the doctor tomorrow to find out about my foot. Remember me in your prayers.

Hey great run, confidence is key. With the last 2 long runs under 7 min average I really feel confident. Lets make sure we stay mind healthy when we get 2 weeks out, might go a bit crazy here and there.

Your body's desire to surge faster is a good indicator. Great work.

thanks guys.

Nice to be able to get out in the short sleeves! It is also nice to be able to say 6:30 pace is comfortably firm. You are staying very consistent which looks very good for Boston!

Great pace your putting in. Your going to shatter your MP pace in your next marathon.

Do you have a dinner at church once a week? I think that's great.

Hope you are feeling better soon.

Boston Bib numbers are out - Dave Rockness #5550!

That extra 2 miles back to the gym put you ahead of me on the mileage board :) I've been enjoying my time on the first page this week. I never thought I had that much mileage in me.

I've been looking at your past race times; you are a real inspiration!

Such commitment!

Hey, thanks! It just takes patience, discipline and consistency. I look at where you are and my guess is that you potentially have a sub-hr in you. Keep up the good work...the bq will happen!

Run well tomorrow. We need to trust now more than ever, were fit.

Will take it easy tomorrow, skip 7 one mile repeats and run another 13.1 on Sunday. Next week I have 23 scheduled and that is it, getting closer!!

6.5 mile race, that is not the norm.

That's a great week of training. I will pray that your 20 miler goes as planned and you hit your target time.

Kory,

Thank you! The course we hit had 12 hills, 7-8 of them with significant incline. We had to work the entire time and then were able to easily push it on miles 19-20 (with much left in the tank). I appreciate your prayers! Hope I wasn't "out-of-bounds" with the AA comment- I keep reading that you might take a week off, then you're out running 10-15 mile runs the next day. I relate with your persistence. I once caught a double-header with a broken finger...wouldn't let the coach see my hand, but could only use pinky, fist, and open hand to call signals and was throwing "circle change-ups" to 2nd base on steal attempts. It's hard to sit out!!!

Your were by no means out-of-bounds. It's something I needed to hear. Not offended whatsoever. Coming from pastor your advice and guidance is well taken. My life needs to be more about God, and not about punishing my body to an addictive state.

I'm actually starting the week off to heal it's time. I can't train others when I'm not healed myself. I think I finally realized that.

Nice pace!

Thanks! Coming from an elite runner, you made my day! It's been difficult trying to train through winter, so I'm just beginning to regain sanity and hopefully a little more endurance and speed.

thanks...and I agree, its probably a good idea for me to give the body a little rest...these last couple months have been the most mileage weeks that I have ever done, so I am happy with the progress, and appreciate all the great advice you have offered.

Brian.

This mid-packer thinks it was an awesome pace.

Ditto Robert. I'd be happy with a 5k at that pace.

You are looking stronger each week as you get ready for Boston. You are going to destroy it!

Great 20 miler! Boston will bow down to you!

I love that your feeling confident, I have a good feeling about your chances for a sub 3. All your miles and all those hills. Good work.

Glad to hear you're feeling so much better this week. You're gonna own that race!

Good work. How tall are you? I'm not quite 6' but seem to struggle getting down to 170.

Thanks guys.

Paul, maybe a 1/4 inch short of 6'. The weight peeled off down to about 182...the rest takes crazy discipline.

I always stretch after my strength training while at the gym, so I am warmed up, but when I run outside, there is no warmup before stretching, so I think its best to maybe jog for ten minutes before stretching....what do you think?

The back feels a bit tender, but not to bad....I just want to be feeling good when I get to Seattle....the area I will be at has many hills, so I plan on doing alot of hill workouts, so I want to be feeling up to it!

take care...and good luck in Boston...I will be following on the internet.

Your double workouts are really coming together consistently.

The important thing now until Boston is doing some good short intensity workouts to sharpen your Marathon Pace. Because you already have the endurance and fitness part from long runs. Your MP miles are really important leading up to Boston. Nailing these workouts will boost your confidence tremendously.

Brian,

I know there's probably a little debate on the issue, but I pay more attention to stretching after a run. I usually jog at least a half mile before running a tempo run. If it's speed work I usually warm-up a mile or two then stretch, then do sprints. If it's a long-run over 15 miles I don't even stretch at the beginning but ease into my pace. You may want to ask Todd's advice... he's probably more educated in this area than I am. However, this system has kept me injury free thus far. Also, I see weight training as a wonderful supplement to running. Get better soon and your training looks great!

Kory,

Thanks! There was a period in which I lost confidence with the distance, but you are right, I have strong endurance now so should work on sharpening the pace. Your input is greatly appreciated!

Your Welcome.

Here's what you got to remember and I'm going to make this point with HIGH importance. You have to go in the race with confidence and realize the training is done and you've done everything you can to meet your goal. You've proven that you've done successful runs at MP. Being nervous is a good thing, because it gives you energy. Negative thinking mentally can shutdown your body so be confident.

Now in the race your going to have a stretch where you might feel fatigue (or what they call negative miles) it could happen between 18-21 or the last 3 miles. Here's where the confidence comes in. Visualize your successful training runs, and tough tempo runs that you completed successfully. This will mentally get you positive again. It works I've used it.

Ok, thanks for the support guys, I will hold back and listen to the birds more. This means a lot because deep down I was scared knowing I was going to run 23 miles close to 6:52's but who knows what I may catch = a cold, injury etc. Lot less stressed now, thanks guys.

Todd

Kory,

thanks...i will take your advice to heart and will use nervous energy + confidence towards my advantage.

what Kory stated makes so much sense we need to be confident going in and realize how good the training has gone. On Monday when I broke an hour for 10 miles I thought sub 3 for sure and then today I was thinking no way because I felt tired during my run, crazy ups and downs.

When is your last long run? How long? 23 tomorrow or Sunday for me.

Yeah, isn't it crazy? There's been several times in which I've felt sub-3's in sight and like days later I think no way. I've set up 3 goals...1) Ultimately get a pr (under 3:10) 2) Finish with a 7min/pace or better 3) If I'm feeling good and the conditions are right, give sub-3 a solid push.

I'm doing a 22-miler on Saturday with a friend. We're not looking to keep marathon pace, but rather get a good firm run through the hills and finish stronger than the pace we start with. Good luck on your long run!

With your training and commitment there is no reason you shouldn't get under 3 hours. You've worked so hard in your training that God's going to honor that in the race.

If confident going in you will achieve your goal.

this blog is a blessing.

thanks guys, get some sleep.

God bless

Great run today! How was you feeling after the run? I was feeling pretty tired after today's run.

Barry,

I still felt strong, but I had broken it up into smaller spurts. You held a pace straight through some pretty serious distance. You're looking really good for your next race. Thanks for the comment!

That is so awesome. It was my wife's birthday yesterday and we had a bit of a workout together after my run then went for lunch.

Going to rest today, resist the hop on the TM 3-6 mile quick run. Excited to run tomorrow partly because I have been reasurred from you that it is ok to run a bit easier of a run tomorrow.

Here is my plan: Run with my buddy G 7:30's for the first 13 miles then speed up to marathon pace 6:52's not 6:30 - 6:45 so I am not too taxed. I figure if I can run the last 10 miles under 110 then that will be a great last long run.

What about your run? Good luck, feeling a lot more confident, my wife helped remind me about the meaning of the work INSPIRATION etc. We are not alone out there!!

Have a great weekend and goodluck on your long run.

Todd

Todd,

Wise plan. I did something similiar today. Ran with a friend and both decided not to look at our watches, rather run by feel. It was definitely a "freeing" experience. As things turned out, we still ran mp on the final 9.5 miles. Good luck on your run Sunday. You're ready, so don't put too much pressure on yourself...enjoy it!

Excellent run! It's great to have a motivated running partner. Hang onto that confidence during the taper.

Very impressive. You are right on track.

Great run! You have some nice splits.

~3 weeks until Boston!~

You should have a lot of confidence. That was an excellent run! You are looking great for Boston.

Thanks all...this blog has done wonders for motivation.

Nice training run for Boston, you are looking primed to hit your goals.

Great run! You are ready for a PR in Boston!

You're right about this blog. It's been a great source of motivation and encouragement for me as well.

Wish I could work on you.

Chiropractic and some acupuncture. 2 of the kids just had the chicken pox and little elli had a bad cold so I am glad I only have a mild night cough. My groin is a bit off but this is the time we start feeling everything.

Ease back.

Any medium or medium long runs planned?

Good timing with the cold.

Take it easy and get well.

Perfect day for a half marathon but I still feel a bit of a tweak in the right groin. It is tough to not run but the 2 days off for you is a blessing!! I personally think you should take today and Thursday off then run 30 miles MP with some speed over FRI, SAT and Sun and officially start your taper. I am going to rest today, 16-20 miles over Thursday and Friday, rest Saturday and there is a 10 mile hill race on Sunday. Then I can do nothing but short and sharp runs for the next 2 weeks. I AM NERVOUS BUT VERY EXCITED. Your so ready, I am a bit jealous in a good way though.

Indeed, at this point a well planned taper is what will impact your output on race day.

Time to trust and keep the those crazy thoughts to a minimal. I find it amazing that you can eat not so well before a long run, sleep terribly and still get up with little if any stress and run MP for 20-21 miles but yet when it comes down to tapering for a marathon we start to question our confidence. Like "wow those hills, the wall, weather ( i have checked 32 different weather websites in the past ), sleep, food .... etc etc. Its kind of funny when you think about it. Realistically 99% of the people that are in our lives don't really understand the difference between a 300 hour marathon and a 330 marathon, they just think its cool we are running Boston so during my ADHD moment I guess I am trying to tell myself to relax and take it in because we have all worked hard to get to Boston earning every minute of it even the painful ones.

Thanks guys.

I am not crazy am I???? ok a little

Ahh yes, phantom pains and twinges will run rampant over the next weeks. You have to trust that you've prepared the organism and now must keep the brain from derailing your efforts. Focus on the things under your control and not be distracted and throw in some last minute changes or try a new idea. Easier said than done I know.

Busy life having 3 kids under the age of 10, mine are 7, 4 and 2, awesome stuff.

Thanks for the words of wisdom.

Are you running Boston and if you are running a spring marathon or Boston have fun and good luck.

Run in spirit

Yes, running Boston for what will be my first and probably last time (until the kids are much older anyway). I don't care for the early preparation at all. Too much treadmill time needed, bad weather, etc.

Let's all plan to have a lager (or two) after the race!!

Dave, get well. Yes taking a bit of time to get well is worth it.

Ah, the Boston anxiety and taper madness is starting to kick in all around. Time to just relax, trust the training, use the excitement to your advantage and just have fun and get your body ready to race.

Lagers...now, would help too! Definitely required after the race on April 20!

I'm in for the beers, hopefully I won't fall over after the first one!

If anyone knows the place to meet later for beers let me know, I am sure they have something set up for the athletes.

Cheers.

Thanks folks...all comments help keep things in perspective. I have strep throat and the antibiotic + rest has been helpful. The strength is beginning to return. Good luck to you all these next couple of weeks!

Rest is the ultimate key at this point with some intensity runs. You've already completed the training and your bodies ready.

Get well and cut the miles with only a few miles in the intensity range.

No worries, get to feeling 100% and you'll be ready to rock'n'roll.

Smart choice by resting. Especially if you decide to run a race tomorrow. Listen to your body in the morning it will tell you if you should run or not.

Sorry about your illness Dave. My oldest daughter was just diagnosed with streph today. We had to cancel her b-day party sleep over. I guess I better wear on a surgical mask until June. When will the illness end this season? Take care.

Kory, thanks. It's been frustrating, but I need to be smart at this stage. I was tempted to run today (prepaid), but it was 38 degrees and raining. Bad combo for trying to get better. Would have been nice to get a strong workout in a race environment, but may have paid for it.

Robert- yes, be careful. If you do get it, do so now! (jk) It's not overly painful- no headache or vomiting...just plain draining. I ignored the signs for over a week before finally getting an antibiotic. Are you tapering yet? I read you got your bq off of 40-50 miles per/week. That's probably less than what your tapering mileage will be.

Hang in there.

Your healing a lot of muscle tissue while getting over your cold.

Skipping the10 mile race tomorrow. Trail, race 2weeks out, hilly, just not worth it.

Heal

Good job on the MP run! Glad to hear that you are feeling better. You have prepared great for Boston now you can taper and be ready to roll on race day!

Thanks Jim! You've been doing quite the travelling of late. Hope things are going well and you're feeling refreshed from vacation.

Yes, I have been traveling a lot but just part of my job. I have a customer in Portsmouth, NH and I might try to work a trip up there around Boston so that I can check out the marathon. Not sure if it will work out but thought it would be cool to see all of you hitting yours goals along the famous Boston course.

That'd be neat if you could.

less sleep last night, I panic when Elliot is sick due to how serious his whooping cough was last summer but this is the chicken pox so probably 1 or 2 more sleeps and it will be back to normal whatever that is!

I am taking today off, I am going to follow the last 2 weeks of my program except the easy runs will be MP because I am so used to that.

One of my taper problems is that I begin to think about how long 26.2 miles actually is because the there are no more long runs, freaks me out a bit. Here are things to look forward to:

1. It's Boston, we used to stress about trying to qualify, we are in it!

2. We have trained very well, ready.

3. The crowd!! Going to be so motivating.

4. We have 2 weeks to prepare mentally and spiritually now something that is just as important as the physical training.

5. Our families, we could totally bomb this marathon and we would both still be overly blessed.

6. We won't be running alone!

You may have heard this one before:

"when your feeling well in a marathon, don't worry it will pass"

the same holds true for when your feeling like crap, we can find a way to fight out of that toughness because of all the above things I have mentioned.

Todd

That training history looks like a recipe for success to me! You have definitely done the work. I can't wait to hear about you meeting ALL of your goals in Boston!

Todd,

Thanks for taking the time to put things all in perspective...good stuff! We are definitely blessed. Hope Elliot gets better soon.

"Rattletrap",

I certainly hope so. Thanks for the encouragment!

I agree, you have done a great job of getting ready for Boston even through the bad weather. I think you are on track to hit that #1 goal!

Jim, thanks...I'm trying to stay positive on that potential. It's easy to lean toward the 3rd goal to be safe, yet I definitely have a genuine shot at the first one. I've stated them to further motivate myself. How's the weather out there?

You've done all the work you can do Dave. We have to accept that many elements are out of our control. Now we hope for good weather and safe travel.

Glad you are feeling better, just in time. Your training has been great, looking forward to seeing you hit your sub-3 in Boston.

Less than 2 weeks!

That's great! Now it's my turn as I'm coming down with a cold!! :( Should have it whipped by the weekend though.

Jeff,

Thanks. I'm starting to gain confidence and won't allow negative thoughts to creep in.

Robert,

Better now than a week from now. Hope you shake it soon.

Wish both you guys the best over the next 2 weeks...enjoy the taper!

Effortless. I like the sound of that. I hope I am in such good shape before the Seattle marathon.

ok...a little effort, but it didn't kill me. By the way, things keep looking better for you in regards to Seattle.

I'm trying to pull my weight and it does seem to be paying off, but I have to admit it's not easy rolling out of bed every morning at 4:30am.

Only 11 weeks to go...

kids are better, makes for less stress.

i feel like when i have runs like today i am waisting them, but its nice confidence at the same time. going to run a controled 10-13 tomorrow.

Happy Easter.

Great run! Good confidence builder, and keep that confidence and faith high.

God will honor those that have worked hard and you sure have.

Have a wonderful Easter Sunday.

It's been a while since I've been to your blog. Just wanted to wish you well at Boston.

Kory, thanks! Does my plan for the next week seem ok? I am feeling confident, but don't want to overdo things in the last week.

Burt, I appreciated your encouragement. I check in on your blog and have not only noticed your improvements, but enjoy your banter with fellow bloggers. You are definitely one of the more colorful people on the blog!

Good plan with one change. I would do a dress rehearsal run on either Wednesday/Thursday. This is; wear what your going to wear in Boston for the race (weather permitted, shoes included) and then do 2 miles at mp in a 4-7 mile run. This gives you the last feel for your MP miles before the race.

I've done this in every marathon.

Kory, I will do this...thank you for the advice.

Thanks....I've had the opportunity to do some trail runs while I'm in Washington..some of which have some decent inclines, but I find doing inclines on the TM more difficult. I'm attempting to get some keys runs of hills and speed during the week....hard for me because I really enjoy the long runs.

Anyways....happy Easter and good luck on your tapering for Boston.

Brian.

Wow, one more week. Looking forward to it all.

God bless.

Life is truely wonderful.

You sound relaxed and ready to go. We need to figure out a way to meet. Our times will be close so we could try to catch one another in the family meeting area.

Robert,

Sounds good. What's your bib#? I'm #5550 and will be with 7 girls at the end (wife and 6 daughters). Wish you the best this weekend!

Travel safely fellas! Hope to maybe meet you guys in Boston!

Good luck in your race. That's so awesome that all your girls will be there at the finish. It's going to be a great weekend!

Safe travels to you all as well. We'll meet at some point after the race. I'll be the one wearing #4276, hanging out in section J meeting area, and probably looking like "death warmed over".

Robert, yes, lets make the effort to connect. Hopefully it will be in section J vs. the medical tent :)

Jeff, good luck in the race! I'm looking forward to seeing how you fare. Hopefully we'll meet. I noticed a group of you guys will probably be going out, but I'm committed to family stuff (my wife's still humored by my "cyber-friendships"...I'll have to get her into the blog for her to understand ). Have an enjoyable weekend!

Rattletrap (what's your real name?), thanks for the words of encouragement...the whole family's very excited!

Real name = Mike Davis.

Don't waste any time posting your results. I'm anxious to hear how you do.

I felt sluggish at times this week as well. Comes with the territory. I'm taking Sat and Sun off as well, which is normal for me.

Best wishes for a great Boston.

Great job this week. Just keep those horses from jumping out the gate now until race day.

I going to pray for you at church the you have the race of your life. You don't need luck because you have God and he will give you the confidence.

3:13:26! Way to qualify for Boston at Boston! You are awesome!

Nice job. The brutal wind I bet was tough.

Never really noticed the wind...just lost my legs very early in the race. Learned alot today. This will be a building block for future improvement. Thank you for your prayers...I would have never made it through without them.

I was definitely praying for you and was excited for you. I've learned something from every marathon I've ran, and that wisdom makes you stronger each time.

Great run and you did well.

Great report. I liked the part when you found out you had already passed Heartbreak Hill. Way to tought it out.

Your legs and my stitch.

I was done at mile 10

I'll let you read my blog when I get to it tomorrow.

I have never been more proud of the effort I put forward to finish that race, the stitch was terrible.

I am also so proud of you because went through something so similiar.

we will meet one day. I wonder how close we were at different times and in the coral.

Todd

Sorry things didn't go as well as you hoped for. 3:13 is an awesome time! 3 marathons in less than 12 months is pretty amazing too.

Good job hanging tough and still finishing with a great result. I read a report on a running site that said the wind had around a 4 minute effect on the runnners so it was definitely a tough day. Also, very tough to be hanging around that long in the cold. You have made incrediable progress over the past year and I'm sure this is a race that you can build off and see further improvement!

That was an amazing report! Wow, you toughed that one out from very early on. I have not heard anyone mention the weather yet, wondered what it was like. I can barely stand shivering for 10 minutes before a race, let alone 2 and a half hours. I am sure that took a toll on you! But you finished with a very good time, and YOU FINISHED. In our running group this morning we were all talking about how thankful we are just to be able to run when so many can't, so we thank God every day for the ability to be out there!

Recover well, Thanks for the report and the lessons learned, I will remember them for next year!

I'm with Kelli, great report, thank you for the recommendations! And congratulations, that's a fabulous time and you can always go back to do better next year!

What a job! I was tracking you and though I knew you were a little over your goal it was amazing to watch you gut it out. It was a good race and you are definately taking the right approach in learning all you can from it.

Did you at least enjoy the mass of humanity that was out cheering you on?

Rest well.

Nice report. I had a tough second half too. I probably saw you in the medical tent. I was sitting down in the chair wrapped up for about 45 min. They wouldn't let me leave for awhile.

I enjoyed following your splits yesterday. Sorry it didn't work out as ideally as you would have hoped, but you still did a great job and I'm very pleased for you.

Great report! Thank you!

Congratulations on your race. Awesome job!

You did the best you possibly could in this situation. Your faith and strength carried you through the finish and that's a big accomplishment.

Look at it this way Robert Cheruiyot the men's winner the last three years dropped out. You can look at your mental toughness and know you succeeded.

Of all things, I think the biggest factor was #1 - pre-race site-seeing. Very few runners are able to run a PR in Boston for that reason. In other words, you need to decide if you are running for a fast time, or to celebrate making it to Boston, and if celebrating pace yourself for a slower time, you will actually run faster. To be within 3 minutes of a PR after sightseeing and pacing yourself in a non-celebratory manner is actually a very good outcome, shows the potential. Your splits indicate than on another day sub-3:00 is in your shooting range.

Regarding Robert Cheruiyot. The reason he dropped out was not the lack of mental toughness. His prize money supports his own livelihood as well as that of his family. If he toughs out a marathon that does not pay, he cannot run another for a while. This means somebody does not get to eat.

Sasha, I understand about Robert Cheruiyot dropping out because of the pursuit of prize money and saving is body for another race. I wasn't suggesting he lacked the mental toughness. I was just specifying an example of where he's in it for the money and that's it.

Where in it for our heart/soul a life experience and don't look at the money just a personal goal to finish or succeed a certain time.