12miler

I went out in the mist and nocked out 12 miles. It was a little warmer then I like this time of year but the mist kept me cool, except it stopped half way thru my run. I recorded 49.18 miles for the week so all in all not a bad week of running.

Foggy run

I went out about 5 this afternoon and ran 6 miles at the track. Ken and Curtis were both there so we ran for a while together. I took it easy as this was my first run since Sugarland this past weekend. I figure ill get in some good mileage this week and next until the 26th then ill start some type of taper to prepare for the Texas Marathon in Kingwood on the first.

Sugarland 30K

I went out and ran the 30k in Sugarland today and it was a great experience I say that because it afforded me the chance to watch on of the best runners Seven Hills has achieve a goal that she has been shooting for. Congratulations to my friend Adrienne for the wonderful run you had today. I am so proud of you you did great. As for me I feel like I really let my self down today. I cant figure out what I did wrong but I came in at 3:00:00. 15 minutes slower then last year for the same course. I guess after all the PR's I have been setting for myself things were bound to go south sooner or later but I will recover and be ready for The Texas Marathon in Kingwood on January 1st. It was great to see Holden, Jon, Bill, and Ben today and to meet Adrienne's family so it was worth the trip.

Long Day at Work

After a rather long and really busy 24 hrs at work I came home this morning ready to run and get some stress out. I went out to run about 8:30am and ran 7.50 miles I felt really tight at first but eventually loosened up and enjoyed the rest of my run. It was going great then the cold rain started so I headed to the house, because I dint have my rain Poncho with me which I don't use during races but I don't see the need to get totally soaked to train. I finally made up my mind to register for the 30k in Sugarland this afternoon so ill be running Sunday. More tomorrow.

Short Jog For Soreness

I didn't get to take my ice bath Saturday like I would have liked to because I had to drive the old fire engine in the annual Christmas parade not to long after I finished running the Sunmart. I just had time to come home, shower, and get my uniform on before it was time for me to go. So yesterday I decided that I would go out and jog 6 miles to see if that worked some of the soreness out well as of this morning it has helped a little. I have committed myself to start blogging a little more so I figured making sure I did one on Monday was a great way to start the week. Now I'm off to work for my 24 hr shift. More tomorrow.

Sunmart Report

I ran the Sunmart 50k today and for the first time during a race actually faced a dilemma. While complete the short loop at the start of the race I came upon a young lady laying on the side of the course. There were a few other ladies talking to her but not really helping her. My mind said stop and help but my watch was telling me to run on as I was running with fellow 7hills member Robert Duncan and we were at a great pace. Well my mind won out I couldn't just leave her there knowing she was hurt. I started my patient assessment and found out her name was Amy and that she was from Austin and that she had tripped over a root and heard something pop in her ankle. I elevated her ankle and thus began our 45 minute wait for the medic to show up. I helped load her onto the 4wheeler and said goodbye and good luck. Then I was off again. I set my mind to playing catchup and it went pretty well for a couple of hours as I passed a lot of the people that had passed me while I was stopped.
I had planned on coming in under 6hr30min so that I bettered my Rocky Raccoon 50k time but god had other plans for me now that I look back at it I'm glad I stopped. i was able to help another human being as I have been trained to do and isn't that more important then a finishing time. On a side note my running partner finished in 5hrs 22mins 33sec. I finished in 7hrs 11min 34sec. If you take the 45 min stop off my time I would have came in under 6hr 30min. but I'm happy and I'm healthy. And ill be back next year.

Kats for a cause 5k

I had a great day today, I woke up this morning planning on a long run. I figured I would wait until the sun came up. I had the radio playing and heard them mention that the Kats For A Cause 5k was this morning so I decided to go and run it. A large crowd showed up the said over 230 people if I remember right. The race started out crowded so I had to go around a lot of people. All was going well till we turned onto sycamore. The wind hit us right in the face. That combined with temps in the 40's made for a cold hard run. There was a pack of about 12 of us separated from the rest of the group by a fairly good distance. I wasn't sure the ages of some of the other people I was running with but when it was all said and done I ran a 23:04 and Placed first in my age group. So I had a great day. Lavonne Zaiontz our club secretary had a great day as well placing first in her age group. Ken Johnson our Club vice president also ran even though he has San Antonio on sunday. Way to go Ken and Lavonne.

Rocky Raccoon ups and downs

Today was a new experience to say the least. I ran my first ultra marathon today. My day started out with me oversleeping and getting up with only 30 minutes till the race started. I made the start in time to stretch for a few minutes then we were off. Honestly all was great till about mile 13 when I felt a blister on the inside of my left foot. Someone gave me a piece of something called second skin and told me to pop the blister then apply the patch. Lets just say it did not work. but letting the fluid out helped alot and didn't allow the blister to get worse. All went great after that till I got to the bridges over the swamp. I had not fallen all day which was great then one the bridge I hit a board that had worked its way up. Istill don't know how I missed it the first time. I fell and it hurt like fire. I got back up and continued to run but my left ankle killed me the rest of the race causing me to walk alot more then I wanted to. I finished with what I believe was a 6hr 37min ill know for sure when they post the times. I came home and did something i have never done before. I took an ICE bath. I can say so far it has worked but it was really cold. I'm happy that I finished and I am looking forward to the Sunmart.

New Half Marathon PR

Today went great. I ran the Luke's locker half marathon today in Houston. I could not believe how great I felt during and after the race. I had none of the usual pains that I have during the race. I actually relaxed and just ran. I have chosen not to use the power gels this year and it seems to be working out for me as I don't get that upset feeling in my stomach. I also surprising to me didn't have the soreness that I usually get when I run long distance in a race. Which I can only figure comes from pushing myself harder then I do when I train at long distance. Anyway I ran a new half marathon pr today by running a 1:50:05 which is 2 minutes faster that my fastest half. I'm hoping if this trend continues that I will be able to get in under 3 hrs in Houston. One can only hope. On a side not I would like to thank Bill Dwyer and Jon Walk for the hospitality in letting me store my bag at the woodlands tent today. And thanks Jon for the encouragement during the race it really helped.

16 miles and cool weather

I got up fairly early and ran the planned 16 miles yesterday morning. It felt so good outside that I really wanted to run more but I was pressed for time because Colton and I had tickets to the dynamo game. While I ran I came upon the cross country runners for the high school competing in their meet out at Katt Bar Ross and it made me want to keep running. Its great to see young people out running and know that the future of the sport we all love so much is being fostered in these young people.

I GOT A HOUSTON MARATHON ENTRY

I checked my email today and the houston marathon finally made it to my number on the waiting list WOO HOO. So it looks like I will be in Houston in January. I ran 6 miles this morning in the drizzle and cold but it felt good outside. I have been running 6 milers since the half saturday becasue my legs still feel really heavy. I have a really long run planned for saturday about 7am if anyone would like to join me that would be great. just let me know. probably about 16 miles. I really have to start stepping up my mileage.

10k then out for the day

Well I knocked out a 10k this morning around town, Of course I was a little stiff after running the half yesterday but it went good , so now I'm off to Houston with my daughter Chantel to watch the Houston Dynamo beat DC United "Forever Orange"

Huntsville Half Marathon

I started to get down on myself for my finishing time for today's half marathon here in Huntsville until I came home and realized that I did pretty dang good. I finished 4 minutes faster then last year on the same course. So that was great. I would have like to have been in the top three in my age group but theres always next yr. I ended up 7th in my age group and 66 overall. Not bad for an ex fat guy who turns 37 in10 days. Congratulations to all my fellow seven hills club members who ran and finished their races today also to the volunteers and committee chairs great job well done.

Great day of running

Well when I got off work at 7am this morning I kinda hung out around the house for a little while. I finally went out about 10:3oam and got in 14 miles. The temp was ok and I had no pains. I also had no cramps this afternoon which tells me my body is adjusting to the greater distance per week and per run. Houston Marathon is almost to the 600's for the transfers I'm 748 so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Good day of running!!!!!!

Well after I blogged this morning I went over to Veterans Memorial for a 12 mile run. I started at the normal starting line that the club uses because i had been told if you run the whole road and back its 12 miles round trip, this is not so so I had to run down the feeder road past the front entrance to Elkins Lakes to make the distance. I was really worried that the temperature was going to rise faster then i could complete the run but even at 1230 when i finished it was still from what i could feel in the 70degree range. I really needed that hilly workout and I'm glad i did it. With the half just a few weeks away I want to be ready for the big hills at the start of the race. The only real worry I had the whole morning was that my Garmin decided to give me a message at the end of mile one, It all the sudden tells me that its battery is low. I decided to see just how far I it would last and I ran the whole thing on a low battery and it still worked. I guess i need to remember to charge it after every run.

Fall Fun Run

A nice group came out today for the 2008 Fall Fun Run on Veterans Memorial. The weather was great with a race start temperature of around 58. As usual anytime I run with John Slate I pushed myself out fast early and finished my first mile in 7:07 which is great for me. everything felt pretty good so I tried to to keep John in eye site even if it was at a distance man I wish I had his speed. I thought I had a pretty good lead on everyone else then I heard foot steps behind me and here came Ana Rojas and she caught me right before the turn around point. I chased her for the rest of the race until the last half mile when I finally passed her back up and took second place overall. I'm starting to think I need to find a training partner because when I run alone I don't push myself enough. Thanks John and Ana for forcing me to push myself harder. I also want to say way to go to Lavonne Zaiontz, I knew you could do it. And Ken Johnson two days after surgery out running a 10k. I told you before I hope I'm still running as strong as you when I get your age. Well I'm out for a long run enjoy the rest of your weekend everyone.

16 Miles

When I got off work this morning I already had my mind made up that today was goingto be a long run day. I sat around the house a little too long because by the time I got on the street it was alreayd starting to heat up. it was 72 so I thoughtthis wont be bad, boy was I wrong. I really had to battle thru my run and I have spent the rest of the day battling heat cramps(NOT COOL). Oh well at least I finished the run.

Slow weekend

Well I got up early Saturday or should I say I was woken up by my pager going off. We had a really bad accident out on hwy 30. After spending a couple of hours out there I came home and decided that I needed some time out of Huntsville. I loaded the family up and we went to College Station for lunch at wings-n-more. I planned on running early Sunday but again my favorite alarm clock(SARCASM) went off at 1230am after two hours of sleep none the less and I spent the next 6 hours at two different structure fires. i got back home around six and passed out. I went out about 5pm planning on knocking out 16 miles but my stomach had other plans so I headed quickly back to the house after a little over 6 miles. I have my 24 hr shift tomorrow so ill get 6 miles in first thing in the morning then ill knock out the 16 on Tuesday. I hope everyone has a great week.

watch out for limbs and sticks

I went out this morning for a 14 mile run. The weather was great and I felt good. I ran into Ken at about mile 4 and we talked for a few minutes. all was good until about mile 7 when I stepped on a small twig and rolled my right ankle. Being the hard head that I an I continued to run at a slower pace and with some shooting pain in my ankle. I think the ankle is going to be fine there is no bruising or swelling as of yet and I completed my whole run.

My Ike Experience

This is a rundown of how my extremely long weekend went.

Thursday 9/11/2008 - Went to Houston to the Astro's game for Hero's Night. It took an extra hour and a half to get home because we had to take the back roads to avoid the traffic.

Friday 9/12/08 - Went for a run the came home and packed for a long weekend at the station. Reported for work at 6pm. Tried to get as much sleep as we could with the storm coming in because we knew we were going to get busy.

Saturday 9/13/08 - Got our first Major call for help at about 4:45 am at the peak of the storm in Elkins Lake. Some of you heard about that on the news and Ill leave it at that.
On our way home from the call found that our route in was now blocked by one huge tree so we had to find an alternate way out. Ill just say its not fun crossing interstate 45 in a fire truck when 45 plus winds are blowing down on you.
Spent a lot of the day Saturday doing SAR( Search And Rescue) through out Huntsville. Along with a structure fire and many many other calls.

Sunday 9/14/08 - Finally sent home off Duty at 7:00 am but I hung around the station as there was no power at home. Finally made it home about 10am

Monday 9/15/08 - Reported the the station for my regular 24hr shift at 7am and felt like I had never went home. My partner and I ran I think it was 14 calls which is a lot since we usually run 4 or 5 for a our 24 hour shift. We got power back at our house about 6:30pm today.

Tuesday9/16/08 - I got off at 7am today. I went out for a run which I haven't been able to do the past couple of days due to being at work. then set to work on cleaning my yard. I'm looking forward to sleeping finally in my bed with AC instead sleeping on a military cot and eating MRE's. Total calls we ran thru out the whole storm 113.

I'm thankful that everyone I know survived. My parents who's home is in LaPorte lost everything. My sisters all three of them are ok and so I my brother. So all in all I would say we are blessed.

Long Run Day

I went out about 730 this morning and ran 14 miles in can you believe 64 degree weather. If it wasnt for all the things I need to get done before we go and watch Colton and the rest of the Hornets play in Conroe tonight I would have stayed out a lot longer. I hope no one missed this chance for some cool weather running.

Another Great Morning For running

If you slept in this morning you missed it. The weather was perfect again. I think its about 67 and low humidity. I ran my normal 6 miles and now it off to work TGIF.

Wow what a great morning!!

I got up this morning to go for my daily run and was greeted with nice cool weather. It must be gods way of letting me know that hes listening to me. I had the pleasure of running into fellow Seven Hills Running Club Member Adrienne Langelier we had a nice chat for about half a mile and her presence helped me pick my pace up so thanks Adrienne. Well I'm off to work.

cloudy, windy day

Today as far as im concerned was a great day to run. I knocked out 16 miles this morning. It was overcast and windy and that was just perfect. Im so ready for the colder weather to get here.

OFF TO AUSTIN

Well I knocked out another 6 miler this morning now I'm off to Austin to shoot some PSA commercials for The Texas Roundup. I will be back in town Saturday afternoon. The only bad part of the deal is I have to miss Colton's scrimmage tonight against Livingston.

Early morning

Well I knocked out 6 miles this morning and it was actually nice out at 530am so it was a great run other then not having my garmin.

BAD DAY

Well I woke up this morning and got ready to go out and run and when I tried to turn my garmin on it would come on. after spending an hour on hold waiting for someone to answer they tell me to send it to them and they will either repair it or send me a new one so now I have to be without it for two weeks. I still went out and ran 6 miles but it just wasn't the same with out my garmin I guess I'm spoiled.

Blessed with not so hot temps

Well I went out for my long run a little while ago and the temp was comfortable. It would have been nice to have a breeze but hey what can you do about mother nature. I ran the 14+ miles that I planned and now its rest for the rest of the day and then watch the dynamo play at 2pm. I have figured out that even when their games are on the Spanish channel I can tune into the radio station that carries the game so I get to watch it and hear it in English. FOREVER ORANGE GO DYNAMO!!!!!!!!!!

HeatWave 5k

I got up this morning and ran the Heat Wave 5k here in huntsville. I took 3rd place overall. Luckly it wasnt as hot as it could have been. I think I ran a little over 30 miles for the week. Since Sunday starts a new week in the programs that I use to keep track of my runs, I am going out for a long run in the morning. I think Ill do 14 miles tomorrow and and add another long run later in the week.

People who stop you while you run!!

Would someone please tell me how to be polite to people who try and stop me to talk when I'm out for my run, so far the only thing I have figured out to do is stop and talk to them for fear of being rude. I really hate it though when people stop me because it breaks my rhythm. I kinda get into my own world when I'm out running and the only thing I let it is cars because I don't want to get hit. I will say that if I'm running with someone its cool I can hold a conversation and it doesn't bother me but the stopping because someone wants to know how far I'm running or something like that just gets to me. I don't know maybe I'm being silly if I am please tell me. Anyway I got in 71/2 miles today even with the rain.

Hitting the road heavy now!!!

Well I first want to take the time to say im sorry for not posting for so long. I have been staying pretty busy at work along with getting my runs in. Today I went out for a long run and ended up doing 14 miles. At least I know that as of right now im ready for the Huntsville Half in October. Im also looking foward to running the sunmart in a few months as it wil be my first ultra boy what a challenge. Well im out of here till tomorrow.

12 miles

Well I got up early this morning and went out for a long run. I knocked out 12 miles and the weather was comfortable. After I get my run in tomorrow morning ill will have about 50 miles for the week. I hope everyone has a great weekend.

Finally!!!!

Well I finally can relax. Tonight at about 710pm the state posted my scores and I passed my state test to get my fire commission. I made an 81.33 overall and passed all of my skills tests. I have been running alot lately and getting in some good long runs. Im sorry that I havent been updating everyone but im sure all of you understand.

Head still in the books

well this week has been more of the same. I work and I study but I also have been getting my runs in. I ran just over 40 miles this week and I ran the June Bug 5k on Saturday. It was a lot of fun. I have 11 days starting tomorrow till I test. I have pals on going to Bremond to run the 5k there, I think it will get my mind of the upcoming test. Have a great week of running everyone.

Run The Woodlands!!

Well I round out my week with Interclub competition in the Woodlands. It was a great course though I ran a few seconds slower for a 5k which surprised me. I took today off and enjoyed fathers day with the family so ill be back at running tomorrow. Have a great week everyone.

Second week of work!!

Well the new job is great !! I've ran about 40 miles this week. and will run the inter club competition in The Woodlands in the morning. I'm starting to increase my mileage little by little. and it's great to run in the morning.

Hot Monday

Today was rather war but I survived. I ran 6 miles before work this morning and it was comfortable, I cant say the same thing about my 4 mile run this afternoon it was pretty warm but I finished it. So that makes 10 miles for today WOO HOO.

Busy week

I'm sorry that I haven't blogged more this week but its been pretty busy with the new job and getting adjusted. I have been able to get in 6 mile runs every day this week in the morning before work so its been great. I took Saturday off from running and went to Beaumont for the Annual State Fireman's and Fire Marshall's Convention. I went to church with the family this morning then went out for a ten mile run this afternoon. Now I'm off to bed. Have a great week.

First Day of Work

Well today was my first day of work at the Huntsville Fire Department and I stayed fairly busy. It was kinda differnt to have the option to sleep later if I wanted to. I got up at 530 and went out for a 6 mile run and it was pretty comfortable outside. I also ran this weekend I ran 3 miles on saturday and 6 on sunday. I think im going to like being able to run early in the morning when its cool out.

Nice Cool Morning

it was great that the weather was only in the 70's this morning I went out and ran 7&1/2 miles at about 7 this morning and it was great. I think thats one of the things im going to like about my new job is that I can start running in the morning without having to get up at three in the morning to do it. I dont have to be there till 7 so i can go unat 5 and still make it to work on time. I spent the rest of the day out at Blue Lagoon training with the guys on rope rescue. What a place. Ive never been there before. but I will go back.

6 Miles and the end of my Career With TDCJ

Well today was my last and final day at TDCJ. I didn't realize till today how excited I really am about starting my new career, I wasn't prepared though for the feeling i would have about leaving some really good friends behind in that god forsaken place. I have had some coworkers that in their own ways touched my live for the positive and I hope I have had the same effect on them. I came home and then went out and got a good 6 mile run in without having to worry about getting blown away by storms so it was great.

Kick butt storm!!!

Wnt out to get in 6 miles but had to turn around rather quickly because of the storm. I almost didnt make it back before the sky fell out. I got two miles in today.

Memorial Day 5k

Today was a fun day. We went out to Ken Johnson's house for the Memorial day 5k and cookout. I finished with a time of 23:26 and tied with Darren Grant for 1st place. If not for missing a turn his son would have put both of us in second place man that kid is fast. The food was great and it was a lot of fun hanging out with everyone afterwards. Thanks for the good time Ken.

Went out at about 530pm and ran another 3 miles. I wanted to get at least 6 in today so I waited a few hours after coming home from Ken's

3 miles

I ran three miles yesterday then took all the girls out to dinner. Colton was off at prom so I figured why not take them out. Nothing fancy but we had a good time. Im taking today off and will run the Memorial day 5k at Kens House tomorrow.

10 miles run

Well I went out this morning thinking I could get out before it got hot but man was I wrong. i ran ten miles but it wasn't easy due to the heat. I stopped at timercrest town homes where my wife is manager and used the hose to cool off for a minute.

Hot Hot Hot!!!

Well I got 6 miles in today but it was pretty dang hot. Thats about it.

3.29 in the Park

Well today I figured out that contrary to popular opinion my garmin will work in the park. I ran with Ken this afternoon in the park and I still believe the trails are suckering me in this makes two times with no falls its kinda scary. anyway we did 3.29 miles. I didn't want to push it to hard because I have my fire department stress test and physical tomorrow. I took yesterday off so I needed to run today.

6.09 miles and a new job!!!!

Well I went out this afternoon and it was a great run the weather was beautiful , heck it was that way all day even though I woke to a bright full moon. Today I finally got the news I have been waiting to hear since I was 5 yrs old and that is no exaggeration. Today I got a phone call from the fire chief of Huntsville, Texas asking me If after all this testing and interview process I wanted a job working for his department as a full time firefighter. I don't think I have to tell any of you what my answer was. For a little while today I thought about the times when I was 5 yrs old and dad would get a call and ask me if I wanted to go. (It was the 70's and fireman did things like that, how do thing they got the idea for that scene in backdraft.) we would go to the station and he would put me in the front seat and off we would go. I was hooked man at 5 I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up and now 36 yrs later its actually going to happen its crazy but I'm totally excited.

Pain

Wel I went out for 6.75 miles yesterday and felt good. This morning I woke up with a pain in my shoulder so I only ran two miles. I'm on the heating pad for the rest of the afternoon. I think I just slept wrong but it hurt like heck.

Runnerspace

Well this morning I went out for a run at about 645am and the weather was cool. I ran about 71/2 miles and my pace was great. I forgot to mention that yesterday I had a running companion for a few steps. A big ol texas armodillo got on the road with me but he didnt seem to mind Iwas there. Sorry katy no snake this time. they must really like you. As for the title of this post im not sure any of you know it but there is now a website kinda like myspace but it for runners like all of us it called runnerspace.com and its worth checking out if you interested in those types of things. if you join give me a yell and ill add you to my friends list. Great running and have a great weekend.

Park Run

well today I went out to the park but missed my ride in and everyone had already started running So I ran in and ran the roads instead of the trails. I figured there was no way I was going running on the trails and getting lost. I ended up running 5 3/4 miles. Not a bad day.

Its going to rain cats and dogs!!

Well I went out and got a 6 mile run in before drill tonight and it made my muscles were tired. I don't think I realized how much the test on Saturday took out of me. tomorrow I'm taking the day off so that i can finish up my presentation. I got on the scale today and I'm down to 194 lbs so that cool the hot weather is starting to sweat it off me.

Catch Up

Well I'm playing catch up on my blog and I'm sorry for that. its been a busy couple of days but I have been able to get some running in. On Saturday I ran 1/2 mile and that was part of the Physical Agility test for the job I'm trying to get. On Sunday I ran 6 miles after work. This morning it was nice and cool so i went out for a 10.39 mile run thru Forest Hills. Ive been doing kinda short to medium runs since my last marathon but I'm about to start stretching them out to longer distances. I hope everyone has a great week and good running!!!

Work Work Work

Some of you may have wondered where I have been, Well I have been in Rosharon as part of the team that took over the Terrell unit as some of you may have heard about on the news. These 14 hour days are killer and we have gotten back so late that Ive just been to tired to run. I test on Saturday for the full time position with Huntsville fire so I had planned on not running Friday anyway. We have one more day at Terrell and they say its only half a day so ill rest tomorrow and wake up ready to run Saturday. I hope everyone is having a great week and that you have a great weekend.

Really Good running day!

Well I went out for a 6 mile run and ended up doing 7.22 miles, it just felt really good out side even for 77 degrees so I just kept running. I had a few things to do so I came on back to the house. Next week ill start adding some more distance as my body acclimates to the heat more. I hope everyone enjoyed today because as sure as I'm sitting here it will rain tomorrow.

Rainy Day Running

Well my parents hung around today which was cool since they have been in Washington State for the past month on work. They found out this morning that they are off for Alaska for the next 3 to 4 months but this is not their first time going there so they are happy that they will get to see some old friends. I have also added my first out of state marathon It will be in of all places Anchorage, Alaska on August 27, 2008. I figured what the hay might as well try my hand out of Texas. Ive been to anchorage before when my dad was working there last time and had to have surgery. I loved it so now I get to go run it.
Today I went out in the rain and knocked out 6 miles of course at first my parents thought I had gone crazy but i think they realized while I was out that it wasn't craziness at all but dedication which is why they offered to handle my air fair to Alaska. I just hope tomorrow is nicer then today. I don't mind getting wet every once in a while but not every day.

If Every Day was Like Today

This morning I went out for a 10 mile run thru forest hills and out 75N and while I ran I started to think about the weather and how nice its been. I had to ask why cant everyday be like today great temperature, clear skies and very little traffic. In a runners world doesn't that sound like heaven. Well at least it wasn't windy like it was yesterday, that's the part I forgot to tell all of you about. We had a bad head wind going out probably if I had to guess 20 miles an hour. Well we have family coming to the house so I'm out of here till tomorrow. If anyone wants to run together in the morning I'm off work so give me a call or drop me an email.

GREAT DAY

Today was great! The weather was about 60 when we got into Lexington. They had a pretty good turn out for such a small town. 64 runners in all. I finished 4th overall, 2nd in my age group and I set a new 5k PR 23:03.

My son Colton took 7th overall, 1st in his age group and finished with a time of 24:20 im very proud of him. Im pretty sure they were ready for us to get out of their town after we took some of their hardware. The Parade was great they had alot of old tractors in that town it was pretty cool. Before we could leave they asked me to judge BBQ Chicken so that was cool then we headed home. All in all it was a great day for the Langwell men. Pictured are Me, Colton Langwell, And Kolton Allen The Fit Kid 2008

Pre Race

Well I'm taking the day off today in hopes that I can set a new 5k PR tomorrow. I wanted to give my legs at least a days rest to heal and relax. The sky looks alot nicer today then yesterday. I know I haven't said it much but thank you to everyone for all your constant encouragement it means more to me then you any of you can know. Ill be back on tomorrow to let all of you know how it goes in Lexington. have a great weekend.

What a nasty looking day in Huntsville

I went out for a 4 mile run and it was ok. Outside just looked really gloomy and I wasnt sure that I would make it back without getting wet. Tomorrow ill take the day off so that im ready for the 5k in Lexington Saturday.

The heat is on!!

Most definitely hotter today but I still got in a great 6 mile run thru Forest Hills. Work was a challenge as the power went out on third shift when a transformer blew and at 2pm when I got off they still did not have it back on.

Great morning for a run

I went out this morning and it was nice and cool so I ran 10 miles around Forest Hills and out 75 North. The traffic was light and the sky was blue so it was a great run. I hope everyone is having a great week.

Running Trails!!

I took the chance today and instead of running the streets as usual I went out and ran with Ken and a nice lady named Megan from the city who is also a new member of Seven Hills. We ran a 3.5 mile course on the trails of the park. It was fun and I got a little mileage on trails in so I'm happy.

WOW what a change!!

The weather this afternoon was great I just cant believe it has gotten so cool so quick. I went out for a 7and 1/2 mile run this afternoon and it was enjoyable. I felt like I could have went further but I got a late start so. I had to head back before it got dark. Thank you all for your wonderful comments and I hope you all have a great week of running.

Roundup 10k

Well today was great. I woke up and when to the VIP area. I got to spend some more time with the governor and his wife. I will be posting a link to the pictures soon. Then it was off to the races where I set a new PR for a 10k with a time of 47:38:15 which is a 7:40 pace. The course was tougher then I thought it would be even with the hills of Huntsville. The hills here were tough. One of our favorite bloggers Jon Walk was here in Austin this morning and I appreciate that he was here. Well I'm headed back to Huntsville.

Im off to Austin

Well this will be my last post till Sunday as I'm off to Austin for the roundup 10k. I did a light run today of 4 miles then took care of all the packing I needed to get done. Today the Houston Chronicle ran a story in the running section and I have included a link to that story. Also for those of you who live in Huntsville be sure to check out the Item tomorrow. I hope all of you have a great weekend at the Weisner run in town and ill see all of you when I get back.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/run/5725821.html

Hotter the Hades

Its kinda funny how coming out of winter 85 degrees is so dang hot , anyway I knocked out 6 miles this afternoon and it was pretty dang warm but I know soon enough I'll start to get used to it, it could be worse it could have been 95 degree's and noon. WOOOO.

Unexpected Day Off

Well I had every intention of running 6 miles today, that was until I came home and had a page that at drill tonight we would be doing the consumption course which is totally draining on the body. So doent look like ill be running tonight unless by some miracle I still have energy left after drill at the station.

Six Miles

Well I ran 6 miles today and that should be near the same amount I run for the next couple of days. Im hoping to set a new PR in Austin this weekend. Ive never ran there before so it should be interesting. Till tomorrow!!

Easy Day

Well I took the day off from running and took it easy today. Ive ran about 40 miles this week which isnt that bad. Looks like we might get rain this week so its back to the roads for me tomorrow. I hope everyone had a great weekend and that you all have a great week.

Late Afternoon Run!!

I went out about 7pm to knock out some mileage it got dark sooner then I hoped it would so i only got in 51/2 miles today guess its better then none. Not much else to talk about today as it was a work day and I don't want to talk about the ignorance of Inmates.

Could it get any better?

Well last night I went to the Seven Hills Running Club meeting and we had a great guest speaker. Tony Allison is the president of The Woodlands Running club and he told us all about his adventure running the Antarctica Marathon 2008. It was great and everyone enjoyed his presentation.
Today I went out and ran 7 miles and what a beautiful day god blessed us with after all of the harsh rain this morning which I have been to told I slept thru all the lighting and thunder. I do have to admit though I got a good nights sleep so hoorey for the rain.

Thought it was going to rain!!

Well I went out today for a Nine mile run and for a few minutes there I thought it was going to rain. God spared me and it was a great run. Now I'm off of to the Seven Hills club meeting and to celebrate Deanna my youngest turning 13 yrs old.

Big News

Well it has not been easy but I have been keeping a secret for about three weeks and now I can tell that secret to all of you. Today about noon time Governor Rick Perry named me the 2008 Fit Texan. To read the Governors press release follow the link below.

http://www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/press/pressreleases/PressRelease.2008-04-16.3804

And I must not forget as some of you would think I took the day off. I ran 5 miles .

Sunny day In Huntsille

Well I got up and went out for my first run since Saturday and the Bear Chase. I knocked out 8 and 1/2 miles today and it was nice out. I found something on the Internet a while back that I know fits all the people who read my blog and it kinda sums up how I feel now that I have completed 5 marathons. Some of you may have seen it before and if so that's ok. The words never seemed to fit me after only running Houston anyway here it is.

I'm A Marathoner
I know I'm only competing against myself
I set goals and work hard to accomplish them
I understand the power of the human will
I strive to help others in their quest for success
I know I can face whatever road lies ahead
I am not satisfied with the Status Quo
My true self shines thru
I am a MARATHONER

Ok so I felt pretty dang good this afternoon and decided that i would go and join the other people from Seven Hills for the 5k training run from Bandera Grill. I figured its wasn't that far so I ran the mile and a quarter and got there later. I followed the mapped path and when I got back to the grill no one was there. Anyway I ran a total of 13.79 miles today.

Sad Day

Today was a sad day for me and my fellow firefighter here in the small town of Huntsville. Today we payed respect to one of our own, though he may have been retired for some time Chief Joe French was a man who was well respected in this community and I am honored to have been able to be part of showing him the final respect that he so justly earned after 60 years on this earth. Rest In Peace Chief Joe French

Groveton Bear Chase Marathon

Well I ran the Bear Chase marathon today and it was tough. Not that it was a demanding course more like tough because my body was a little more tired then I wanted it to be. I went out pretty fast around 750 minutes pace and felt pretty descent thru the first half. The only parts that bummed me out were the dirt trail parts of the marathon they really slowed me down. Guess I need to spend more time in the park to over come that. I finished with a time of 4hrs3min39sec. This is slower then I wanted to finish but I accept it because the more I have thought about it I have a had a great marathon season. I ran 5 marathons in my first season shaved 26 minutes off my first marathon time and completed the Marathon Challenge. What do I have to be mad about I see next season being a time of broken PR's and possibly a BQ yr. I also wont forget the great time I had at TIR and I'm looking forward to running that great event with the members of 7 hill. Let me take a chance to tell Katy way to go on your run. Hey don't think for a minute I didn't think about cutting my run to a half. You yourself have had a great season and I'm proud of you.

Advice from the Jedi Master!

Well today I called on the Jedi Master A.K.A. Ken and asked for advice about running two marathons so close together. Heck I figured who better to get that kind of advice from then someone who's 66 and has ran more marathons asleep then I have all my life. Ken if you read this Im giving you a compliment not putting you down. That being said he adviced me to go for a light 1 to 2 mile run and then take tomorrow and friday off so that my body has time to heal from last Sundays Marathon. So I ran two miles really really really slow in the rain and it felt COLD. And this will be all my running till saturday morning. In the words of another great jedi master Yoda " May the force be with you"

6 miles to Happiness

I went out today for my recovery run and had decided to keep it light, somewhere around 4 miles but being the hard head I am it turned into 6 miles before I knew what I had done. Sometimes I just forget to look a my Garmin to see my distance. At least I can look forward to a lot less soreness tomorrow because of today.
Keep running and smile life is good.

Rest Day

Well I took the day off today and went and had my post race massage. It always help to get the soreness out. Watched a little soccer and did somethings at the fire station. Tomorrow I will go out and jog a few miles but nothing major. Hope everyone had a good Monday.

Big D Marathon!!!

Well I had a great day today and I let myself down at the same time. The weather in Dallas was great, it was predicted to get to 80 but stayed around 59. The course was really hilly but that wasn't a problem for this boy from hilly Huntsville. I met a few nice people that I hung with for about 8 miles. Then came my problem, Mother Nature called and it cost me two dang minutes. I finished at 4:00:21.30. As most of you know I was shooting for a sub 4 hour marathon so that i could take it kinda easy this next weekend in Groveton. Oh well Groveton is flat and I'm ready, I WILL get the dang sub 4 hr time I want come hell or high water. Some of you may ask why am i trying so hard my first year of marathoning. I want a good point to start out at this next Marathon season on my quest to BQ.

Lets see Final results for today- 4:00:21.30(PR)
Overall place 106
Age group place and this was the best part: 17th woo hoo

Days Like today!!

Well today I started out my run planing on just gettting a few miles in to stay loose but not over do it. The tempature was ok here in huntsville around 74 at least thats what the internet was telling me. As I got about two miles into my run. I decided just to go where my feet took me and it was great I ran down some streets I havent ran down in a long while all thru Forest Hills. Never felt any pain and actually felt relaxed. I ended up running close to 7 miles.

5 days and counting

Well Dallas is 5 days away and I ran 6 miles today. No pains to speak of and the heat wasnt to bad. More tomorrow.

Post Run Note

Hey the craziest thing happened while I was out running today. I was following my normal route down 10Th street towards 75south and I passed what looked like a small dead animal and since I see a lot of those at first I didn't think anything of it. But as I got just past it, it moved and that of course made me stop. Well it ended up being a baby raccoon maybe two days old laying in the dang street where it could get hit by a car and no mama in site. So I flagged down car and asked them to call animal control. A police officer showed up and we moved it to the curb where no one would hit it. the game warden was supposed to be on the way. I continued on my run and when I came back by it was still there. i ran on home took a shower and went back to check on it. I put it in a crate and called the game warden myself. Looks like we will have a small visitor for the night and they will come by and get it in the morning. I know some of you may be thinking I'm crazy but i couldn't just let the little thing die. Like i have said before we runners are the luckiest people because we see thing everyone else misses.

Start to the Finish!!!

Well this week starts the finish of this years marathon journey. Most of you will notice that I will drastically reduce the amount of mileage I tell you about as I will run the Big D Sunday and then Groveton the following Saturday. This will complete my five marathons needed for the Marathon Challenge and beside there just aren't anymore in Texas to run for a while. After the 12 I'm going to continue to run just as much and will miss the excitement of knowing a marathon is right around the corner. Well I'm off for 6 miles. Talk to you tomorrow.

Katy's 5 mile Trail Run

We all had a great time out at Katy's ranch. I'm not much on trail running but the course was great a little muddy but hey what can you do about mother nature. I ran the 5 mile course and finished with a time of 39:10. Katy and her husband made us all a great meal and I would like to say thank you Katy for your hospitality. I decided to come home and run off the burger so Deanna my youngest and I went out for another 3 miles. So today's total for me is 8 miles.

Letting the legs rest!!

Well I took today off so that I have fresh legs for the run at Katy's house tomorrow. For those of you who like Mediterranean food and live in or near The Woodlands, try Dimassi's on Lake Woodlands Drive. We tried it last night and I was very pleased.
Http://www.dimassis.com

6 miles and a meal

Well I went out and ran 6 miles this afternoon with my new Garmin and I say new because I had to exchange the one I have had because the dang speaker went out. Now we are off to a Mediterranean Restaurant in the woodland I'm really wanting to try. More tomorrow.

9 miles

Well I went to work this morning and they let me come home due to over staff. So I went out for a run. I got in nine miles today and it felt great. Not much else to tell. I did find a Race in May called Beach to Bay Relay. If anyone reads this and is interested let me know and we can talk.

Speed Work

Well I went out for a little speed work and ran a 10k, Don't want to be slow when we go and run at Katy's house this weekend. The weather has changed but its still not terribly hot out. I know my definition of speed work is different then other peoples but I see speed work as pushy myself to stay between 740 and an 835 pace for anything equal to or shorter then 6 miles. More to come tomorrow.

Long Run!!

Well I went out for and ran 14 miles today and talk about windy. I thought I would never get done because of the wind. But I did finish it so im happy. Then I spent 4 hours at the ER with my oldest daughter Chantel because she was having pain in her side. Turns out to be a severe muscle strain. So all is good she got some meds and gets to miss school tomorrow. Well that about raps up my day.

Rest Day

Well I'm taking a rest day today. I figure I'll take today off then tomorrow hit the road for my first of at least 2, 14 or longer runs this week. Don't be surprised though if I come back later with an entry about choosing to go ahead and run as I sometimes tell my self take a day off and end up running anyway.
Norman

Saturday and Sunday

Well I learned an important lesson today about this blogging site if you don't post your daily blog on the same day you miss out because you cant back date. Saturday was another wonderful day for running and I took advantage of it and went for a 9 mile run out FM 1791, it felt great. Today (Sunday) I thought about taking the day off from running but I promised the family I would grill burgers and sausage for dinner so I figured if I wanted to enjoy Easter dinner with them i had better go for a run so I could burn off some calories. I thought it was going to be one of those kinda runs where I really have to push myself to get thru it but on the return trip I pushed the pace and my body responded to the tune of 3 miles at a 7:15 pace. My body still surprises me daily, just when I think it has given me all it can it gives me a little more. This week I'm going to run a few 14 milers maybe more if it feels right, but I know I need to start pushing the distances a little with Dallas only 12 days away. I want that sub 4 hr so bad I can taste it. I know someone will respond with be careful not to get injured and believe me I'm listening to my body if it says take a break I will.

Could the days be any better?

Could the past few days be any better when it comes to running and the weather? I went out for my run and did just over 6 miles today. again I wanted to run more but I had told a buddy I would hang out with him while he picked up his new jet ski's so i came on back to the house, then wouldn't you know he decided to stay in Houston after picking up his new toys so he could go to the rodeo tonight. it kinda bummed me out not because we weren't going to hang out but because I could have kept running. Oh well what are you going to do. Well today is good Friday and so far it has been that - good.

Another Great Day

Well today was another great day. Great temperature outside. I ran seven miles around forest hills and out 75 north. I felt good enough to go further but I had a meeting to go to and didn't want to be late. Well I hope the weather is as nice tomorrow as it has been the last two day if so I'm going for a long run.

Beautiful Day

What a totally assume day. I could not have asked for more perfect weather to run in this morning. The sun was out the temp was around 50*. I did right at five and half miles and could tell a lot of the sourness is going away. if tomorrow is as great as today was I cant wait to wake up tomorrow.

Rainy Run

Well I went out for my first run since Sunday today and got 4 miles in and all was great till it started to rain I got about a mile from the house and the God decided that it was time for me to get wet. Oh well who am I to argue with God it his planet I'm just lucky he lets me run around it. Im off for the next three days so im for sure going to put some miles in.

Seabrook Lucky Trails Marathon

Well I am now back home. It was really different because I don't run on trail that often. I was well on pace for a sub 4 hr marathon but had some shoe malfunctions so I had to change shoes mid race which threw me off and cost me time. That's 3 marathons done and two left to go till I complete the challenge. I just pray my body hold up. I'm feeling good though. My stats for Seabrook were.

Chip Time 4:19:28:7
Placed 79 - overall
Placed 69 - Male
Placed 10th - Age

Look out Big D here I come.

Im off to Seabrook

Well Im off to Seabrook. Thought I would go spend a few days with relatives and chill out till sunday. So I hope anyone who reads this has a great weekend.

Great morning !!

The temperature was great this morning for run so I went out. Only ran five miles. Today will be my last work out till Sunday as I want to give my legs time to heal. I was supposed to get a massage at 11am but Tracy the therapist couldn't make it till 5 this afternoon. It kinda bums me out because I could have ran further if I had know I wasn't getting the massage till later. I have found that massage therapy really works before and after a marathon. Well I'm off to get something to eat as its past my lunch time.

Slow and easy!

Well I just got back in from a slow and easy run. Its not often that I slow myself down to a 10min. or slower pace but as I went out the door I thought why not take it easy. I'm 4 days out from my next Marathon and after running the inter club on Sunday I want to make sure I don't injure myself or not have anything left for this weekend by going out and pushing to hard. Look out seabrook here I come.

About Me!!!

Hello im Norman Langwell I'm from Huntsville, Texas and I'm a runner, jogger, Chug-a-Lugger, I refuse to get treatment for my behavior and I hope I'm infectious and that my love for this sport spreads. I'm 36 years old and the I love to run. The picture above is the team I ran the The Texas independence Relay with and we had a great time.