Happy New Year

Happy New Year!!! Lets hope 2009 will be good year for everyone.

Happy Thanksgiving

If anyone is still checking our blog...Happy Thanksgiving. I have a lot to be thankful for in 2008 and I hope everyone else does as well. Having a family in good health and great friends is all one needs and that is the best thing to be thankful for.

THE BIG LET DOWN

Ok, I have been trying to post the last three stages of the race but I am in a funk. The past three nights I have had dreams about running different stages of the race. I must admit that I keep having this dream of seeing, Jo, Sjohn and Mimi's lovely bottoms jogging out in front of me and it is a wonderful dream, however, it is followed by a horrible nightmare and I wake-up in a cold sweat as somehow the butts of Sat and George end up in front of me!!!! Helen has to calm me down...I never tell her about the beginning of the dream.

Christine, I am not transitioning well and while I always get hugs from the kids at my school I am missing Kendra's daily hugs. She is a hugger. At least now when I see lightning it is not all a negative experience.

The Old Goats Steve and Doug you are becoming folk hero's back here in NJ. I keep telling everyone about you guys and how you kept kicking the Knuckleheads butts. My local Y has asked me to write an article about the race and I am mentioning you guys in it.

I hope to finish up the last three stages as I have enjoyed reading Steve's posts about the various stages. I would also like to summarize my entire Quest experience dating back to when George and I started it in March.

I am not prolific writer and I am not sure I can express the feelings I have about the wonderful week spent out in the Rockies with just great people. I never thought I could make that many friends it that short period of time.

Some Of The Views From The Trail

George and I Meet Vicious Sheep Dog

Day 5 ...BACK TO THE SHEEP!!!!

The Old Goats, Jo and Sat ,Wedding Couple and Others Finishing the Last Stage.

The Knucklehead Saga Continues

First...hope to post more photos of our friends finishing the last stage. Helen got some great shots.

Here is the latest Knucklehed story...We left Beaver Creek Sunday morning to visit my cousin in Meade, Co. After a brief visit George's step daughter stops by and picks him up. We unpack the car and get his luggage transferred to his daughter's car.
WELL...there are two red bags...you got it...my bag is now in Dallas and George's in New Jersey!!!

The flight home yesterday was uneventful...except I met the same DNC delegates that flew out with me two weeks ago. Harvey and Diane. We had a lot laughs. But a cute story...Harvey has a 95 year old mother who loves Tom Brokaw. Harvey bumps into Brokaw and asked him if he would mine calling his mother to say hello. Harvey gets his Mom on the cell phone and Brokaw talks to her for a few minutes. Made her day, week and month.

A little tired today and a busy day at work. Hope by the end of the week to finish the stages and summarize my experience at the TransRockie. If there are any Gore-Tex-TransRockie folks reading this blog I would like to thank them for a wonderful experience. I hope to elaborate more in the coming days about that experience both positive and negative(mostly positive).

Day 3 of The Quest

25 miles. Feeling much better after reaching 12,500 and not getting sick. Only had to go up to 11,750. George and I are cranky for the 1st 12 miles and we are not working well as a team. I wanted to join Jo and Sat after 12 miles. But after we cleared 11,750 we started running better as a team. I am having a lot of trouble running downhill on the trails. I much better when I get to the flat areas.
We were running to Camp Hale ( an old Army Camp). Once I get to the flats I feel great. Both George and I are able to make up a lot of time. We are having a friendly rivalry with the OLD GOATS(see photo) Steve(64) and Doug(69). They kicked our butt on Tuesday we beat them on Monday mainly because it was flat and only a small climb (1000ft). We could not make-up enough time to catch them...but we pick off a couple of other teams. We passed Jo and Sat but Jo was not feeling well...she had a case of sun stroke.

After the race we soaked our legs in a cold stream...that felt great. Camp Hale was a real nice place with a restaurant and running water and a toilet. But NO Internet access. We had a good dinner and watch the award ceremony. Our friends Christina and Kendra are in second place for the mixed 80's. Team Achilles( see photo above)

An UpDate

Hi All

Wanted to let everyone know we ALL MADE IT!!! Finally have Internet access and battery. Will up date everyone with days 3-6. Either tonight or tomorrow. Have to get ready for the banquet that starts in 30 minutes.

Day 2 OF THE QUEST

Need to be brief...battery low...Sick as a dog Monday night...did not think i would make Tuesday was in my tent at 7:00 with the chills etc...I thought the Quest was over after 1 day. Fever broke at Midnight. Was very weak and had to climb to 12,500 on Tuesday. Make a long story short. We made it. Thanks to a lot of help from a lot of people. We ended up teaming up with a total of 8 people and we help each other through the ordeal. Speaciall thanks to OLD Goat Steve. But a Big,BIG Thank You to Jo who paced us all the way up and all the way down. It was the best feeling I have had in a very long time when reach 12,500. I hope to post some photos if the battery holds out.

Day 1 Of The Quest

Started out early got up at 6:00am too nervous to sleep. Peed and poop 1000x. Met everybody downstairs for breakfast at 7:00. After breakfast Peed and Pooped 100x more. Then off to the start line it was 80 degrees not happy. But we were with all of our new friends and everyone was anxious to get it started. The Race started at 10:00. George and I started off on our quest. It was supposed to be an easy run 12.9 miles. NOT that easy. We finished in about 2 1/2 hrs. I think the altitude killed me and it seem like it was all UPHILL all the way.

Have felt better...but hope to come back strong tomorrow. We have to climb to 12,500. Off too dinner.

George: For those of us that know and love Fred, let me simply say that his colon is problematic. We all know the rest of the story.

Well, the news flash of today is the temperature... it's too hot for this insanity and we are hoping for a tornado tonight to change the air pressure in the rocky mountains. Nonetheless, we did okay today... no major tactical errors, but there were spots that we could have went a bit slower. Paulie, we took a sugar tablet when we were feeling crappy and I think it helped.... even if it didn't, we think it did... so mission accomplished.

Tomorrow will be a unique day.... signficicant 3 mile clime to 1250 feet and then a long descent. We can do it, because after all.... this is a VISION QUEST !

Until tomorrow.

T-1 The Race Begins Tomorrow But We Did a Preliminary Tonight In A ThunderStorm

George: To my fellow runners ... I am proud of you and please be safe, put your troubles aside for a week and have a great race ! God Bless, see you at the campfire.

To my daughters, Nikki and Chynna... I love you and I will see you soon.

Freddy : Good Luck everybody!!! Enjoyed today...hope to do the same tomorrow.

Katie, Freddy and Helen I hope you are reading the Blog and I miss you guys!

Days 163 & 164

Up at 5:00am slept about 2hrs Thursday night. Said goodbye to Katie and Freddy & Helen. Got to the airport no problem plane was on time. Leave it to me sit next to a DNC delegate from NJ slotted to vote for Obama. Well we got into a shouting match and the plane almost had to be diverted !!!! JUST KIDDING...She was a nice little old lady with her husband. I was a good boy and did not talk politics.

The plane landed early, got my luggage and went to find George. Found George then went to find our ride. We had a little wait for the shuttle so we had lunch. After lunch we found the shuttle and 4 more Transrockie runners. Then off to Buena Vista a 21/2hr ride. It was a nice ride got to talk to the other 4 runners. We all had a story about our training.

We got into our hotel around 3:30. Unpacked, and went across street for dinner with our new friends. We had a good time with a lot of laughs. Saw some pretty powerful lighting storms after dinner. We were in bed at 8:30. Long day but did not feel that horrible. Slept halfway decent...the ear plugs worked...George did not snore too much.

Saturday, woke up early and went down for some breakfast and decided to go for a short run. At breakfast we met Jo and Sat our UK blogging buddies who had gotten in late Friday night. They decided to join us on our run. It was nice easy run down to the river and we did not feel too bad. But the Altitude was felt. We also hooked up with some more folks from Toronto and we all went to dinner together. It was a nice day.

This is George: ditto above regarding meeting some new friends.
We are assessing our new friends intent for the race.... looking clandistinely for those that can meet our goal to run slowly and arrive safely. What we are finding is a diversity of experiences and folks that are vets of ultramarathons, folks that have coaches, folks that have sophisticated support networks.... I fear that we are doomed to running at the back of the pack all alone. The good news is that we have about 600 brownies with us, so we won't be hungry and we won't have to share.

In all seriousness, it is great to be around individuals that share our interest and are looking to achieve a goal without much in the way of expectation for "Glory " or recognition ... it's just cool to have a a stretch objective, become a bit fitter and take on a challenge that is a bit daunting. I'm proud of us all and look forward to the week ahead for the running, the scenery and the fellowship.... hard to say which will be the best element of the experience, but it is already clear that this will be a blast.

Stay tuned for updates from the maniacally engaged webmaster of this blog.... Freddie the Magnificent... Cheers !\

Days 161 & 162

Wednesday,went to the Y for final time before the Quest. Wanted to say goodbye to Carmen. I hope that in 20 years I am in as good a shape as he is. He is heading down Florida to visit his son. He has been trying to convince his wife for a couple of years now to get a big screen TV. She finally has come around. But now he has been debating for the last 2 months whether to get a LCD or Plasma. I told him to just get one before she changes her mind!!! He says he is going to get it when he gets back from Florida...in time to watch the Yankees in World Series( we are both Yankee fans so we never give up). A few of the older guys at the Y have been wishing me good luck. It is a nice feeling...I just hope I can finish this Quest.

Anyway, it was a beautiful day yesterday and I was going to go for a short run outside. But decided not to...did not want to risk any accident on my last of training. So I just walked uphill on the treadmill for 30-35minutes and did a light work-out.

Wednesday night did some last minute packing and played chess with Katie and Freddy. All of sudden they have taken to playing chess. It is fun teaching them the game and finally I can beat somebody. But I got a feeling that will be short lived they are already pushing my limits.

Today, too nervous and excited to work so I am posting. Leave for the airport at 5:30am tomorrow. I know I will not sleep much tonight. Looking forward to meeting my new BLOGGING Friends, Jo, Sat and Steve.

A big thank you to everyone who have been sending in encouragement via post and emails.

The next post will come from Buena Vista, Co.

Days 159 & 160

Monday, went to the Y and did a little uphill walking on the treadmill and a light work-out. I feel lethargic and nervous can't focus at work just want to get going. I think I am finished packing.

Today, did my usual Tuesday routine...Sams Club shopping for the school. Home for lunch took a Nap. Got the small camera I needed. Read Steve's post about the weather for the run. I keep seeing the weather report that says it is going to perfect running weather. But Steve's forecast calls for snow and rain. I guess the weather will be what it will be. Could be difficult to have campfire chats in the rain. I share the same view as Steve roughing it is having no room service at midnight!!!

Days 156,157 & 158

Sat and Steve I am thinking about bringing my ski helmet!!! But I am going to try to believe in the weather people this time... the forecast is looking perfect for running next Monday mid-60's and sunshine. Although, I just read that Denver set an all-time low for Saturday--58.

Having said I would trust the weather folks they were dead wrong on Friday. Which I was happy about. Was able to play golf Friday afternoon. Played well... Rick and I were partners both of us played well both we lost $20 as our other buddy Al shot a 75. The bad news is I hurt my neck so that will rule out any golf next week and re-enforce no training this coming week.

Being a true knucklehead knowing my neck was bothering me I went for one last run. In addition, I went on a trail I should have been running on since March. A beautiful trail along the Delaware canal, completely shaded with nice hills. Leave it to me to find it at the of the Quest. If I survive the Quest I plan to run on this trail a lot when I get back. Anyway, ran 8 miles around a 9min mile pace. Too fast especially with the neck issue. Spent the rest of Saturday with ice on the neck and taking a nap.

Sunday spent packing...still trying to figure out what jacket to bring. I know I am packing way too much stuff but it still fits in the duffel bag at the moment. Still need to get a small camera that will fit easily in the pack.

Spoke with George he has been up in Chicago cleaning out his house that looks like it might be sold. He will be very relieved if it is. I hope he has some energy left for the Quest he has been cleaning/packing since Friday...14hr days. Now he is driving back to Dallas in a U-haul van. He was 122 mile outside of St.Louis when we spoke.

Sat...George has a new e-mail address... georgebrown926@yahoo.com. He was not sure if you had it or not.

Again, thanks to Steve and Sat for the advice. A week to go...I can not believe it.

Steve, will the Ultra Michelob bus be waiting for us next weekend!!!

Day 155

Thanks Sat and Steve for the advice. I looked at the long range forecast for Leadville and it looks pretty good for the 1st day of the race and through Thursday. Sunny and cool but it looks like it will be pretty chilly at night low 30's. But when do the Weather folks ever get it right.

I am debating on how heavy a jacket to bring...a ski jacket or a mid weight jacket that will be easier to pack where I can always layer under it. My brother says go with the Ski jacket. Anybody have any other thoughts.

Steve, I have a home equity line I hope that will be enough. I had hoped to put a new roof on the house but I guess I can wait till next year.

Took the day off...busy at school and did some shopping. Was hoping to play some golf tomorrow but the weather is not looking good. If no golf will run uphill on the treadmill for 30/40min and do some stretching and stomach work.

Day 153 & 154

First a BIG THANK YOU to OLD Goat Steve for his response on navigation. I should have asked him this question a month ago I would have slept better. If I make it to Vail I am taking him out for a beer at one the bars there.

Took Tuesday off...got my passport photo. Now I am down to couple of things but nothing big.

Today, I got the new cell phone and one Helen,Katie and Freddy. Katie and Freddy have already figured there phone's out. They are helping me figure mine out.

Ran 6.5 today and did my usual Y thing. It was not a great run felt rough and it was humid again.

Spoke to my brother tonight...George, Glucose tablets they sell them at Walmart or any drug store. He says they are better then eating chocolate or gel drinks. He says we need to pack a warm jacket for nighttime and morning. He also laughed about the 6 shirts he said after the 1st mile each day it is not going to matter whether you have a clean or dirty shirt. He maybe right.

Day 152

Two weeks from tonight we will have hopefully completed the 1st leg and had our 1st campfire chat!!!

Relatively peaceful Monday. However did not accomplish any tasks ie new phone and passport photo. Went to a Verizon wireless store broke into a cold sweat...had no clue what to do. Family plan, single plan, National Minutes plan etc...text messaging, email, music, GPS, TV(LCD or Plasma), broadband etc. Buy one get 3 free with a two year plan on Tuesday with a full moon if you are an Aries and you plan to Vote for Obama!!! I will try again tomorrow I did some research tonight on the internet. I did check Verizon's Colorado coverage ...west of Buena Vista looks shaky, Vail is ok, but my broadband card may not work on some days. So I may not be able to post on those days.

Went to the Y today for a light workout. Walked up hill for 40 minutes tried to maintain a 15min/mile pace. Finished with a light jog just to keep the legs moving. Did some upper body work as I think my arms are getting weak with all the running I have been doing. Also went back to doing push-ups. Hope to tighten up thing before the race.

Looking forward to meeting Old Goat Doug I think we share the same views on Hillary. My wife Helen was a raging Liberal when we met. She use to throw mashed potatoes at me when we would discuss politics. Now she is right of me and Rush Limbaugh. How about those Russian they are not winning enough Gold Medals so they have to invade another country to change the subject. Sore losers!!! By the way any Russians running in this race...that will make for interesting campfire chats.

Days 148,149,150 & 151

I can not believe it is almost here... two weeks from tonight we will be at the pre-race BBQ.

Well, George your sock recommendation worked. Picked up a pair on Thursday.

Friday was a brutal day but at least it was Friday. Got to the school and forgot we were having our fire suppression system tested. Spent the early morning running around the school telling everybody not to worry about the alarms. Then the landscaping issue we had a month ago was going to be corrected. Eventually it was.... but not without a significant amount of time and aggravation. I was not able to go to lunch until 2:30 which put my run in jeopardy. I needed to run to test the new socks and trail shoe. Ran 6.5 had hope to run 8 but time was against me. Luckily George's sock suggestion worked. Legs and feet felt fine and went back to my root trail and had no issues. Back to work and the HEALTH DEPARTMENT was there for an inspection!!! On a Friday afternoon if you can believe that. Everything was Ok. Finally the landscaping was done at around 6:30. I went home and had a couple of Buds.

Saturday, the weather was perfect...low 60's. Ran 9 miles...no pack and just tried to rip it. It was a good run and I felt strong. Unfortunately, it was mostly pavement and I ran it in trail shoes so my legs were a little sore. I even got competitive the last mile I pushed to over take another runner something I never do. Just getting cocky!!! After the run went back to buy a bunch of those socks. On my way back I found a great trail to run along the Delaware river... of course I find it at the end of the training. Did I mention I have lived in this area for over 18 years!!!

Today, George and I spent time on the phone going over gear and food items. We both found towels that are paper thin and will fit in our packs and luggage without taking up any room. I think I am halfway packed hope to be finished by next Saturday. STILL NEED TO GET THAT PHOTO thing taken care of!!! Also need to get a new cell phone tomorrow.

Oh went for a 4 mile hike in the rain gear to see how it felt. It was raining!!! I am not a complete Knucklehead!!!

Day 147 The Quest Almost Came to an End

Not a good day....almost in a mild state of panic. Ran 8.5 in the 4H's mostly trail. Major trail shoe issues. Was hoping to have a nice trail run in the new shoes. I am not sure if it is a shoe or sock issue. It is too late in training process to be worrying about shoes and socks. Anyway my feet were swimming in the new shoes as they loosened up during the run. This caused my Achilles to start hurting which had not bothered me for more then a month. Not sure what to do at this stage. May go back to my New Balance 908's or try a thicker sock which may bring back the blisters. Not Happy.

While trying to process the trail shoe problem on today's run... I was on a trail with a ton of roots which I use for good practice. Well I was going at a good pace when I missed this root. Well I do not know how I did not wipe out. I caught myself and almost had a Whip Lash on the recovery.... pulled a muscle in my back. Had I gone down something would have broken for sure. Maybe its an Omen...good or bad I am not sure.

Well today was a big gear day. The pee bottle arrived along with the therma rest pad, duffel bag , the head lamp, medical kit and $60 worth on socks that I will now probably have to return.

I will sleep on the shoe issue...next run is Friday hope to have a solution by then.

Days 145 & 146

One final word on the pee bottle controversy…when it is pouring rain or blizzard conditions at night I will be warm and dry peeing into my bottle why you guys will be out looking for a TREE to pee against!!!

Anyway, Sunday night went for a five mile hike and figured out how to use the hydration pack I got 5 years ago from my brother. I am a slow learner if no one has not figured that out yet. Walked in my new trail shoes no issues there so far.

Monday, did a light work-out ran up hill on the treadmill for 45 minutes in the new trail shoes. Still no issues with the shoes. Did my usual work-out after the run.

Took today off. Spent time surfing the Internet looking for a solar powered heating pad!!!

Day 141,142,143 & 144

Well I wish I could say the cross training went well...but my golf game was horrible. Could not get on track. But I always enjoy playing golf with Rick as well as his step son Brian. It was pretty funny there was a cute young snack girl driving around the course...Brian and his friend must of spent $50 buying snacks from her. I think one them got her phone #. Oh to be young and single again!!!

Friday was a busy day at work beginning of a new month. Ran 8+ miles during lunch time mostly trail it was hot. Then into the Y for some stomach and upper body work. The guys at the Y are giving me encouragement only three weeks from Friday till we fly out. After work we had our LL-Allstar party for the kids. It was a good night...the parents and the kids all had a good time.

Saturday, woke-up early and went for a 12 mile run before the weather got bad. Spent the rest of day trying to figure out what we should be bringing on the trip. Here is the list George and I have put together if anyone has any suggestions please COMMENT thanks.

Gear List

1. Rain Jacket X
2. Rain Pants X
3. Rescue Blanket X
4. Medical Kit X
5. Fleece Top X
6. Sleeping Bag X
7. Pad X
8. Pillow X
9. Towels X
10. Alcohol wipes X
11. Metamucil Mix X
12. Ultima drink X
13. Exceed energy drink X
14. Food packets ( 6days) X
15. 6 Running Shorts ? X
16. 8 Technical short sleeve tops X
17. Flashlights X
18. Pee bottle X
19. Cottonelle wipes X
20. Socks how many ? X
21. Running Pants ? X
22. Long sleeve shirts how many ?
23. Regular shorts?
24. Regular pants ?
25. Regular Shirts ?
26. Electrolyte Powder or Tablets ( required )
27. Flip flops ( camp fire shoes )
28. Warm gloves
29. Warm Hat
30. Body glide stick
31. High Calorie foods / energy bars
32. Jackknife
33. Books
34. Ear plugs
35. Ipod
36. Condoms and Viagara( George's item not mine)
37. Long stretch pants / compression shorts
38. Aspercreme
39. Advil
40. Sunglasses
41. Suntan lotion
42. Bug Spray

How we are going to fit all this in one bag is beyond me.

Hope to clear-up the shuttle issue tomorrow. Also waiting for a couple of more item that are on order. The critical one is the Therma rest pad. I have three of them but none of them fit into the Big Agness sleeping bag George recommended. Hope to get it by the end of the week.

Day 139 and 140

1st... George, tried to call you today your cell phone was not working...said phone no longer in service. I will forward you an e-mail confirmation of the medical insurance we got yesterday.( Again Thanks to Steve and his forum post.)

Steve,heard from Transrockie folks and forwarded that to us see his comments on day 138. In summary, the 1st two stages are shorter but Transrockie says this year's race will be harder then last year.

Took Tuesday off and today did my uphill run at the Y along with some stomach and upper body work. Also went to have my blood drawn it will be interesting to see what effect the training has had on my blood profile since I also stopped taking the Zocor.

Got my sleeping bag today along with a bunch of other gear. I think I might win the best dressed runner award. I am all technicaled up even my underwear!!!!

Tomorrow hope to cross train with Rick on the Golf course. Have not played with him this year. Should be a good day albiet a hot one.

Days 136,137 & 138

Well, the Saga is over. We lost our last game 7-6 to Princeton. The boys came back from 7-3 deficit and the winning run was on second base when the game ended. Freddy did not pitch well but he hit well. He kept the rally going in the last inning with 2 outs and a full count he drove in the 6th run. Had we won we would of had to play yesterday and tonight. The weight of the world in now off my shoulders!!! I do not think my contract will be renewed!!!

Training...Logged 55 miles this week not the 68 in the Transrockie schedule. But I feel pretty good about training. Ran 15 on Saturday again full pack ,11 on Sunday morning then went on a 4 mile hike in the afternoon. I forgot to reset my garmin so it combined my Friday run with Saturday so at the 26.2 mile mark I checked the time it was 4:35. I was happy about that even it was over a two day span. My pace was consistence with the pack. After the 3 days my legs felt pretty decent, I felt the miles but it was not horrible. Was able to run an easy 4 today and my legs felt good after the 1st mile. Will take tomorrow off and start trying to rebuild the body. Hope to get my trail shoes by Friday from Roadrunners and run a couple mini long runs in them.

George, Sat said he is having difficulty getting info on the shuttle to Buena Vista. I told him I thought you had looked into that for us. If you have could you let him know.

Steve, has the same view I have with the Transrockie folks...they are not answering any question for the participants. I am going to read his blog tonight. He thinks total miles could be 110.

Days 134 & 135

I was checking the Transrockie website they have changed the routes. The 1st two days they have reduced the mileage substantially. If I am reading it right...1st day 10 miles second 12. George we can do that backwards ELITE runners like us.

Anyway, woke-up at 4:00am this morning in a sweat...with a list of things to do in my head. Could not get back to sleep!!

Ok training update...ran 7+ on Wednesday mostly trail...the 4H's were present. Thursday, just walked up hill at pretty could pace on the treadmill up to a 15% grade. Did 3 miles. This morning ran 13+ in full pack mode...weather was almost perfect mid 60's when I started. Felt pretty good when I got done. Sitting at work now just a little tired.

I know everybody wants a LL update...Wednesday's game got rained out...not good. We may go into Sunday now. We lost last night to the top seed but our guys did not play well at all. We only got 1 hit. Freddy drove in the only 2 runs we scored on ground outs. I hope we do better tonight. We are playing the same team we beat on Tuesday 10-0. If we win we play again on Saturday. Luckily that game is not until 5:00. At least I can get my run in. If we win that game we play Sunday. This is killing me.

Tomorrow hope to get my trail shoe issues resolved.

Days 132 & 133

I am getting STRESSED !!!! This week is supposed to be the big week for mileage and LL is getting in the way. We keep winning which means we could be playing this weekend which will really mess-up my running schedule. We have a game every night this week.

Monday ran 5+ on the treadmill up-hill felt ok. Did my normal Y work-out.

Monday night we played one of the best teams in the tournament and lost a very close one. We went with our B pitchers as our A pitchers were un-available. Freddy, pitched and did very well. Retired the side in order his 1st inning and the second would have done the same if not for a couple of fielding errors. We lost 11-8 but we ran out of time...only played 5 innings.

Last night we won 10-0. Which means we have at least 2 more games to play. If we keep winning we could go all the way to next Tuesday. Not good. We play the # 1 seed tonight. I am not sure who I am rooting for!!!!

Hope to run today on my lunch hour, again Thursday and figure out how I will get the long runs in on Saturday and Sunday with LL.

George, we need to go through a check list for equipment,food and clothing. What is your feeling on a GPS device ? With our history of getting lost I was thinking we should hire a guide!!! Since you are single maybe YOU can get a young single female guide...I just won't tell Helen!!!

Days 127,128,129,130 & 131

It has been a while...received some bads news about my cousin and a very good friend. Both had some serious medical issues. Both had left us for awhile and had to be revived. They are struggling to regain there health. There struggle makes this Quest seem insignificant. There are two things in life you can not take for granted your family and your health.

So in that regard getting in shape for this run is best thing I can do for my health assuming I do not killed by a grizzly bear or die of exhaustion!!!

Training has been going ok. The weather has not been good. The 4H's are back. Ran Wednesday inside on the treadmill uphill for 5 miles felt ok. Did some stomach work called it a day. Wednesday night we had our 1st touurnament game. Played one of the better teams we lost 17-7. Freddy pitched... he threw strikes but they had some real good hitters so it was tough. He was upset. On the way home from the game I was driving by myself and was passing a McDonalds had not had any junk food since March. AND after losing 15lbs I made a U-turn into Micky D's. Got a double quarter pounder w/cheese large fries and a coke. Thought I died and went to heaven...I woofed it down it 2 seconds almost went back for another but I had no money left.

Thursday, ran 7.5 in 90+ degree heat thought I was having a heat stroke. I stop sweating with a 1/2 mile to go. Made it back to the Y and drank water like a camel. Did some stomach work but felt weak. Went back to work with a headache took some aspirins. That night we had our second tournament game at 8:00. We won 15-5. Freddy played `pretty good had some good hits and played the field well. After the game Freddy went camping with the boy scouts along with Helen. I went home to take care of Katie and the pets. Did I mention I was exhausted!!!!

Friday, tried to wake-up early to go for a long run before the 4H's came out. Got going around 8:00am. Felt absolutely horrible and I just tried to survive. Got it done... it was not pretty. Went into work late after lunch.

Saturday, woke-up early... 6:30... got my long run in before the 4Hs kicked in but it was hot enough. Did not feel that bad actually had a little left very little at the end. Then we had BB practice at 10:00. It started getting hot but it did not bother the kids just the coaches.

Sunday, had to take today off as we had a game at 10:00am. We had to meet at 8:00 for BP practice before the game. It was some game we were losing 8-4 going into the last inning. We had to win to move on. Our # 11 hitter leads -off with a walk that was huge!!! Top of line-up coming up...but our Lead off man strikes out our # 2 guy walks our # 3 guy pops out...2 outs!!! We are down to our last out still had not scored. Freddy's up 3-2 count smashes one up the middle short-stop makes a great play but our # 2 guy is so fast he beats the play at second. Base loaded still 2 outs. Well after that we keep hitting ground balls and beating them out for hits. We steal home for the game winner 9-8. The Saga continues!!!! Stay tuned for more!!!

Tomorrow, treadmill work as I gear-up for what looks to be a tough week...need to go long for three straight days. Do not think I am going to run 20+ though. I hope to stick around 15-16 will see.

Days 125 & 126

Took yesterday off. Had LL practice at night. Big tournament starts tomorrow. Last one...then I can relax on that front. Then I can concentrate 100% of my worries on the Quest.

Today was a new 1st I ran 7 in sun glasses. Never did that before. This Quest is full of change...1st the Garmin, then the Ipod shuffle and now sun glasses I moving into the 21 century. George, tell Tadpole the sun glasses I bought are being worn by our troops. The lenses are bullet proof...I wonder if they are Grizzly bear proof. They will come in handy for golf too...now I can relax when I am trying to hit a ball out for the woods. I will not have to worry about a ricochet hitting me in the eye!!!

George, looks like the Dallas weather is heading our way. I am trying to figure out a running schedule to deal with heat. Tomorrow hill work on the treadmill.

Days 123 & 124

Ran 11 early Saturday morning before the heat set in. Unfortunately, was not luckily enough to avoid the heat for baseball practice. After practice Freddy wanted to watch his friend Michael play his Allstar game. A long baseball day. After, that went out to buy a pack. I bought one but I think it is too big will try to wear it a couple times to see.

The last of my baseball hero's passed away...Bobby Murcer. Last year it was the Scooter. Katie and I were watching some film clips of Bobby Murcer while we were watching the Yankee game. She is 12. She said Murcer was a true Yankee and that A-Rod would never be one. She has amazing insight. I am now down to two hero's James Arness( Matt Dillon)Gunsmoke which I watch all the time and Joe Namath.

Tony Snow was also a good guy.

Today ran 12 before Church. Legs felt pretty rough. I keep thinking the training is going to pay-off... we are running out of time.

George, I have an alternative plan for the Transrockie Run. We bring our golf clubs play 36 find the campsite have dinner camp-out. Wake-up have breakfast play another 36 find the Campsite etc etc...At the camp fire we can talk about all the birdies we made while we listen to people talk about how horrible they feel about the day's run. I AM SERIOUS!!!!

Days 121 & 122

Took yesterday off. Went home for lunch took a power nap. Went back to school felt pretty good. Left school a little early so I could eat dinner before LL practice. Practice was pretty good we were trying to get the kids to be more aggressive at the plate. So I tried to get them fired-up it worked in some not in others. But if we do not hit in the next tournament we are toast and they won't renew my contract.

Ran 13 this morning. The weather broke...it was 62 degrees and no humidity. I was in heaven. Felt like a new man...I must be because I am down to 156lbs. Glad I ran early though I think it is going up to 90 this afternoon. It was nice getting into work at 10:30 all the problems of the morning were gone by the time I got in.

George, I saw the weather forecast for Dallas this morning 99 degrees. I really think you should try the treadmill in that kind of weather. In our younger days it would not be a problem or if you were only running 5 but going long in that heat on repeating days can not be good.

Hope to do 11 tomorrow before LL practice/scrimmage. Also hope to resolve my pack purchase tomorrow as well.

Day 121

Did 7 in a cloud. When I got done it look like I came out of the shower. Went in and did some stomach and leg work. The weather is supposed to break tonight. So the weekend runs look to be halfway decent.

Had a scrimmage against the 8yr old all-star team tonight. The game was close for awhile but we pulled it out in the end. Our team is a 9 yr old all-star team. We still can not hit. But we showed signs of life. Batting practice tomorrow night.

Not sure if I will take a day-off tomorrow or not. Hope to do three long runs starting Friday.

Day 119 &120

Played golf on Monday. It was a nice outing raised money for children with disabilities. Henry, sponsored the foursome which was very generous of him. It was long day made longer by a disturbing phone call from the school. I should have left my cell phone home. Anyway, we played just shy of 36 holes as I had to leave for LL practice that started at 6:30. We had a lot of laughs and actually as a team were even par when we stopped.

Today, had to deal with that phone call...its no fun being a business owner. May have a solution will see tomorrow.

Well ran 5+ on the treadmill all up-hill. I hope this type of running will help...I know it is not the same as outside running but I do get my heart rate up pretty good. Went downstairs and did some stomach work and called it a day.

Got my rain gear ordered...need to get a pack and a sleeping bag / mat. Will go with George's selection on the sleeping bag. Also waiting on trail shoes hopefully George says we will have them by next week.

George, I was reading The California Old Goats' Blog and there combined age is 130 so they have us by 20+ years. They share our philosophy I believe. Run, Jog, Walk, Nap, and a couple of beers when they get done. I look forward to meeting those guys.

Hope to get in 6/7 tomorrow it is going to be hot by lunch time.

Day 118

Got up early did 11 felt like I was running in cloud. The humidity had to be 90% luckily the temp was only mid 70's. Actually felt pretty good...again once I woke-up. The hardest part is getting out of bed at 6:30 on a Sunday morning.

George,I bought Ultima Replenisher it was recommended by the Transrockie bike race. I have been taking it for the past two days I think it is better then Gatorade not as sweet. I drink a glass before I run and then after I finish. I think I will mix it up and take it on my long runs.

Pretty un-event full day. Church, some work around the house, watched Wimbledon reminded me of the Connor v Borg matches. Then took a power nap. A pretty good day.

Tomorrow, 36 holes for the Special Olympics. It is now a tradition for Henry and I to play. It is long day but for a good cause...I look forward to it...but it is supposed to be hot and humid tomorrow. Plus I have baseball practice at 6:30pm. Oh well such is life.

Day 117

Went for an early morning run got 11 in before our LL game. It was a wet run...light rain and humidity. Felt pretty good once I woke-up. My shuffle is not working having technical problems hope to figure it out soon.

Well we were eliminated from our 1st tournament. The kids played well we had 1 bad inning where we gave up 5 runs. We just can not seem to hit. Freddy scored our only run...stole home on a passed ball. Freddy played well...threw out a guy stealing second and made some good plays as well at 1st base. We have a little break before our next tournament. I am afraid if we do not start hitting it will be a quick exit. I think we scored a total of 10 runs in five games.

Hope to get my run in early tomorrow before church.

Day 115 & 116 Happy 4th of July

Played golf on Thursday it was sunny,windy and hot. Played halfway decent. The round took about 4+ hours. Finished up went in for lunch and a Bud. Unfortunately, could only have 1 Bud...LL game at night. Would not be good for the manager to have Alcohol on his breath. Got home about 4:00 and was exhausted took a power nap before the big game.

Unfortunately, the big game was anything but big...the kids were tired from the night before and there play showed it. NO ENERGY...I know the feeling. We lost. Again, we got home late after 10:00.

Today, took the day-off. Had hoped to play golf with Rick but I was too tired to get up early. Plus Rick was not able to get a tee time. So we went down to his summer house for the afternoon. The kids love his backyard pool. Rick & Marydett are the nicest hosts...Freddy and Katie enjoy there company. Marydett's 85 year old Dad came by and was doing card tricks for the kids. He was a big Boy Scout leader when his kids were growing up so Helen talk to him about scouting. Both his boys Buddy and Bobby made Eagle Scout. Freddy has a long way to go. Another,VERY GOOD DAY.

George, that suicide vest will kill you in that heat. I do not know how you do it.

3 great Americans died on July 4th...Thomas Jefferson,John Adams and Mr C. I can not believe it has been four years since he passed away. He was like family and another big brother. He would have been the third Knucklehead. He would have been there with us as our single crew member. I do not have the space to tell people who did not know him about his life... but he had the most courage of anyone I ever knew. Every day he had to show it...I miss Mr C. He will be in my thoughts when I am running in the Rockies as he is everyday.

Days 112,113 & 114

Well so much for taking this week off. Monday ran 2, and worked out at the Y. Then had a tough night of LL Allstars. Lost tough game Freddy pitched and got beat-up. He was pretty upset...I felt bad for him. We did not get home till after 11:00pm. Way past my bedtime!!!

Tuesday,ran 5 miles uphill on the treadmill and did a little work-out at the Y. Then back to work. After work off to LL practice for 2 hrs. Got home was exhausted tried to go to bed early no luck there.

Today, did 6 outside it was pretty hot but felt half way decent. Back to work. Then off to a LL game. We finally won 4-3. Freddy played well got a key RBI and made the last three outs of the game. Just got home but I thought I needed to post.

Cross training tomorrow and another LL game at 8:00. Hope to play golf with Rick on Friday but not sure if I want to wake-up at 6:00am on the 4th.

George, as I told you we have a chance to finish 3rd in the Quest for our age group 80+. It looks like there are only 3 teams in our catorgory. But we do not have to tell anybody that.

Day 110 & 111

Well got up both days early to beat the heat. Saturday I was underway by 6:30 as we had to get ready for our All-star game at 9:00. Was able to get in 10. Glad I got it in early as it got up into the 90's during the game. We lost 7-5. It was a good game we should have won but we made a couple of mistakes which cost us at least 4 runs. We play again Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 at night. Not happy about that... way past my bedtime.

One of our neighbors invited us to a pool party/barbecue...they have two kids one of which is a friend of Freddy's. They have a beautiful backyard with a pool it was very, very nice. Only problem my kids did not want to leave so I did not get home till late...again past my bedtime. Plus I had 2 Bass Ales' too many.

Had a hard time getting up early but got in 10 this morning before church. The weather was brutal again today. Glad I got it in early. When I came out of church it was already hot. I think I am getting a little use to the humidity. My last couple of miles were not horrible.

Not sure what to do this coming week.

Days 108 & 109

First, Frank has been sending disturbing photos...the last one was of huge grizzly bear which said greetings from Colorado. The bear did not look friendly...thanks Frank !!! Kept me up last night!!

Only played 9 holes yesterday..elbow was hurting,the course was playing very slow and I was tired. So Henry gave me a break and did not push to play 18. Instead he treated me to lunch and a beer. Got home and fell asleep for over an 11/2 hrs so I must have been tired. Then off to a 2hr Allstar practice. Our 1st game is Saturday.

Woke-up early this morning and got 13+ in. It was not pretty as the Humidity has returned. It is amazing how my pace slows in that kind of weather. I know back in March I complained about the cold, windy and damp weather but I think that is much better weather then the 4 H's.

Hope to do 10+ tomorrow before the baseball game...will have to get up early to get it in. Then do another long one Sunday morning.

I am thinking about taking next week off. It has been non stop since March. Finished my run today and I was down to 157,I have no appetite and I am not sleeping well. I think those are signs of burn-out. I'll see.

Day 107

Posting early today have All star practice tonight will not get home much before 9:00. Ran 7 today in the 2H's decided against the treadmill. It is always nicer to run outside even if it is hot. The good thing was there was not much Humidity--the 3rd H Felt comfortable averaged about 9 min mile pace.

Did some research into the rain gear I think I have it narrowed down to two items. But there is a big difference in price to get the Gore-Tex vs the other water protection. Will have to think about it for a while.

Hope to cross train tomorrow... Henry and I will play some golf...weather permitting. It should be good cross training the 3H's are due to come back. Carry my bag for four hours in the heat should toughen me up.

Days 105 & 106

George, finally sent you a check today. You should get it Thursday.

Ran 7 Monday in the 4 H's... a bet no one knows what the 4th H is. A free six pack of Bud to whoever knows. Went in to the Y for limited stomach and leg work.

Took today off. Back to the Y tomorrow for some treadmill work...hill practice.

As the date draws closer my list of concern from way back in March are keeping me awake at night. The list has grown to over 42 now. After the e-mail from Transrockie my bear concern came back. But George, NAVIGATION is keeping me up at night. You and I do not have a good track record here. I get lost going to work every day. And the past two days the news has been full of hikers getting lost in Alaska and California. This is not GOOD. I am going to talk to Paulie about the bears...he is chasing them away from campsites in Yosemite.

Well I hope I get some sleep tonight.

Day 105

George, an 18 mile run in 90 degree heat without water...you are now Captain of TEAM Knucklehead!!!! I would have dropped after 3 miles...I use to like to run in the three HHH's not anymore.

Well I think I over BALANCED on Saturday. Woke-up early to get my run in ran just shy of 11 would have run longer but ran out of time. Had our last LL game at 10:00. We lost our last game but again it was close. Then off to our team's ice cream party. Then back to the field for the award ceremony which dragged onto 4:00. Meanwhile,back at the ranch Helen was getting the camp site ready for 80 people...she is a Den leader...pack meeting in the woods. Got home packed and left for the camp site. Got there around 6:00. Not in the mood to chit chat but that what was the order of business. By 10:00 I was beyond exhausted went into the tent to get off my feet. The kids were running around till Mid-night.

Wanted to run today but did not have the energy. After packing up the camp site and driving home I fell asleep on the couch for over 2hrs. Just could not get the sneakers on.

Will go to the Y tomorrow and get some miles in...Balance!!!

Day 99, 100, 101 102,103 &104

Took some time off from posting. The news about George's Mom made it hard to post. Spoke with George and as usual "Big Brother" revitalized me.



George, things will start to turn around you have been through a nightmare for the past three years. There is a country western song ...If your going through Hell keep on movin don't slow down the devil may never know you are there... So the Quest will hopefully help it that regard we will just keep running!!!



I was getting burned out and I did not know why. I thought all that training would start to make the long-runs feel better. But the exact opposite was happening. My long runs were getting worse. I think I was obsessing about the training. BALANCE....You need Balance in your life. Too much of anything is no good. If I was 21 and the only thing on my plate was this run that would be no problem. So for the next 9 weeks BALANCE will be the thought starting each week.



Well our LL run ended on Tuesday night. A hard fought loss. My guys did not wake-up until the 3rd inning. Freddy pitched the 1st three innings and did very well, unfortunately, the team made a lot of errors. We started to play in the 3rd inning and made a spirited comeback but fell 1 run short. 14-13. We play for 3rd place tomorrow and then on to the Allstar games.

Wednesday Balance came back... We have been playing this Golf match for at least 5 years. We use to play every other week 5 years ago. My x-partner Ed we go back 30+ years have been playing golf together on and off that period of time. Well we started a match with one of his friend's( Emlen) and one of mine(Henry). We had only played 2x in the last 3 years. So when everyone could make it Balance was restored. We play a $2 nassau. Over the years I think my total winnings are .50cents. If Ed is reading this Blog he will disagree!!!! Every match is usually settled on the 18th hole with someone being forced to put for 9,10, 11 or 12. Once again it came down to 18th and my buddy Henry had to sink his put( we will not disclose the score) for us to win...he missed we tied. We lost a dollar they had two greenies. Then in for a little happy hour. It was a good day!!!!

Thursday, day-off.

Today woke-up early ran 12 before work. Felt great. The weather was perfect...a nice cool morning. Hope to do the same tomorrow before our LL game. BALANCE the new CODE word.
Thanks to my conversation with George and the Golf match...balance will be restored.

Day 95,96,97 &98

Thursday, ran 6 in the morning, got ready for Pre-K graduation. Always a big and busy day. Found my speech from last year updated it a little. The parents got a kick out of it as I told them it was last year speech. They know I am a person of tradition and routine. I have worn the same Halloween costume for the past ten years...a cowboy hat and jeans. The parents and the kids get a kick out of it.

Thursday night play-off game. We won 16-13. It was a struggle but the kids came through. The big game now is Saturday do or die. Got home at 10:00 to pumped up to go to sleep. Luckily no running on Friday.

Friday, another long day with-out a work-out. Father day picnic at the school. I buy hot dogs , root beer and other stuff and have a barbecue. I am the chef. We have moon bounces and face painting etc.. It was a warm day and the party did not get over till after 7:00. Got home around 8:00 and took a shower and went to bed. Saturday another busy day.

Saturday got up at 6:30 went for a 10 mile run. Felt pretty good actually felt great. Average about 9.2 pace. Only needed 1 bottle of water and finished pretty strong. Got home took a shower off to the BIG GAME at 11:00. If we win we play 2 more games and maybe win the championship. Have our 2 best pitcher going. Does not start off well we are down 4-0. But we fight back and take the lead in the third inning. They tie it up in the top of the fourth and we are told the bottom of the 4th is it if we go ahead. Time restrictions. So Freddy leads-off with a single, steals second and comes home on single to center. We start to celebrate but the Ump says he made a mistake there is more time left. We are not happy. So we score 2 more runs and go into the 5th. Where they score 3 runs to tie the game again. Bottom of the 5th my two slowest and least talented kids lead-off. The first one hits a slower roller to 2nd and how he beat it out is beyond me. The next kid is slower then the 1st. But a wild pitch send our kid to 2nd. Now the kid that is up has a total of 6 hits all year. Well he gets a hit to short right. I send our runner home and it was the longest run in history but he was safe and we won 15-14. Well you would thought we won the World Series. But it was great to have two kids who are not that talented win the game. Everybody voted them the MVP's of the game. SMILES Galore. It was GREAT DAY. I sweated more at the game then I did in the morning run.

Sunday...Fathers Day. Went to Church...skipped breakfast...went to a party for on of our priest who was celebrating 45 years as a priest. Came home...went for a 14 mile run. It was warm and humid. It was a horrible run wanted to stop after 3 miles pain every where. Finished the run and was depressed. How I am going to finish 20 + if I am having trouble with 14. I am hoping it is the humidity. But not happy.

Rest of the day spent on the couch watching the US Open. Tiger is something else. Got two nice fathers day cards from Katie and Freddy. Made my day and helped me forget about my run. I am pretty lucky guy.

Day-off tomorrow except I have to get a cap so I will be at the dentist office for 1 1/2 hours OH Boy!!!

Day 94

Went for a bike ride today. Did 11 miles. Different leg muscles in use. Felt pretty good actually to work that muscle group. It was a perfect day. Have not been a big bike person had a couple of bad bike accident 12 years ago. Did an Evil Knievel routine tried to jump a log...woke-up in the middle of the woods not knowing where I was. Was not sure how I got home. My wife saw me sitting on the couch with my helmet still on bleeding and mud all over my helmet and me. She said I was babbling. Of course I did not go to the hospital( knucklehead). Then two weeks later I went on another ride and hit a pot hole and went head over the handle bars. It was not pretty. Kind of gave up bike riding. But today I enjoyed the ride and may get back into it. On my ride I saw two Fawns could not have been more a month old. It was a nice sight.

After the bike ride off to LL practice. Not a bad practice.

Will do 6 tomorrow morning. Have a busy day tomorrow...Pre-K graduation and a LL play-off game. Have to make a speech at graduation...not my cup of tea. Will keep it short and from the heart.

Day 93

Another, busy day...Tuesday...Sams shopping, Allstar planning, and Graduation issues at the school. George, you are a better man then me I did not run in 105 heat index...ran 6 on the treadmill did three miles for speed and 3 uphill. Felt ok. Went back to work and was not totally exhausted. However, when I got home I crashed on the couch ...I woke-up did not know where I was.

Tomorrow, is a cross training day I think I am going to go on a bike ride to see how it feels. This weekend looks to be challenging running wise. But it should be a good indicator of how the training is going. The training schedule starts to intensify from here on out.

Day 91 & 92

Sunday...Church, breakfast, Freddy's B-day party at Laser Park 15 kids. What Fun!! Then off to Allstar try-outs at 3:00. It was 95 degrees. Off course I am also managing that team but this time I am sharing the responsibilities with someone else who is much more organized then me.

Sunday was a day-off as I squeezed my runs in on Thursday,Friday and Saturday as there was no way I could do it on Sunday.

Today it was close to 100 degrees. I scheduled today off last week thank goodness. Went to the Y... walked inside for about 20 minutes just to loosen up for my stomach and upper body work-out. Have some serious tendinitis issues in my shoulders. Could not lift anything over my head. I think it has to do with baseball but not sure.

Tomorrow looks to be as bad or worse then today with the heat. If so will have to do 6 on the treadmill. That will require a brain disconnect but at least I will get some hill work.

Day 90

June 7 Freddy's B-Day the Big 10. Boy does time fly.

Three Months in...less then 3 to go. Today was another busy day. George, I now know why you are running slower then me...you are running in 90 degree heat. Today I ran 11 in that heat and it was horrible. It reminded me of our college days down in Florida. Had to stop twice to hydrate was dying. There was a bike race in my route, there were ambulances and police all over the place. I kept bumping into one cop on a motorcycle he said I looked good I told him he better follow me because I was about to collapse. He said there were plenty ambulances around. Anyway, I finished it was NOT pretty the only thing I can say is my legs did not feel that bad.

After the run had to get ready for the BIG playoff game. Game Time 1:30 it was in the mid 90's.
Put the line-up together got the ice, Gatorade and cups for the kids. We were playing the 1st place team. Made a coaching change I went to coach 3rd base. Decided to take the bull by the horns!!!. Well we started of not too good down 4-2 in the 1st and one our runners on 3rd got doubled up. So much for the coaching change. But the kids rallied and on every hit I was sending them home. WE WON 18-10. I think our team was in shock!!! I know I was. What was great some our less talented kids got the big hits to put us over the top. I always enjoy that.
Two kids... Freddy and Michael had B-Days so we sang Happy Birthday to them at the end of the game. IT WAS A GOOD DAY.

Day 87,88 & 89

Freddy & I were doing well up to last night. Then the wheels fell off. 1st we had our 1st play-off game. Had to leave work early pick-up some kids get to the park early. The field was one big mud puddle. So the coaches had to get the field ready...I sweated more doing that then in the 5 mile run that morning.

We had a devastating play-off loss. 6-3. We played on our best game so far. We have the tying runs on base with two outs. I tell the kids do not steal we need three runs not 1. Off course, they try to steal and they are out. The heart of our line-up was coming up. Got home at 10:00 was exhausted but could not go to sleep. This LL is killing me!!! Got 2 hrs of sleep between stressing over the GAME and the dog and the two cats running around all night.

Friday morning was no picnic but will not bore you with the details. Freddy & I survived.

Backing-up... Wednesday did not play golf my partner Henry did not trust my meteorological skills and bailed out on golf. So I went for my suicide walk instead did 4 miles.

Today I am officially brain dead...I ran 8 miles on the treadmill uphill. Although not a steep grade and at a constant pace 9 min miles. It was brutal the shuffle did not help much.

Tomorrow, will go long early as the weather is supposed to go into the upper 90's with a heat index in excess of 100. Then we have our 2nd play-off game at 1:30...I can not take the pressure my colon is killing me !!!!

Day 86

Busy day. Started with typical Tuesday shopping at Sams. Got to school unloaded the supplies, paid bills, collected tuition and talked to parents. Went home for lunch and ran 5 miles. I have new approach...running less for speed and more for the miles. I am hoping this will help the legs feel better. Ran without the garmin which should help me slow my pace. Did some stomach crunches, took a shower and went back to work. Then off to LL practice...big game this Thursday...the play-offs begin.



George, I figured out Link-id and I hooked up with Mike Booth. Talk with him today only for a couple of minutes will get back to him tomorrow. But he is a grandfather!!! He is 54...has a six year old grandson. His two kids are 26 and 30. When I told him mine were 10 and 12 we both started laughing.



Cross training tomorrow if the weather is ok. Not looking good right now.

Day 85

Good day that did not start off good. Hate Monday's. Planned to take the day-off after the 13 I did yesterday. But decided at the last minute to do an easy run to try and loosen up the legs and the weather was great. So I did 3 miles and went into the Y to do stomach work and stretch. Got back inside and my buddy Carmen was back doing the leg machine that he use to press the entire rack of weights. I was very happy to see him back as he looked good. Said it was tough to get back in again but he hopes to get back into his routine M-W-F. A good day !!

Day 82,83,84 We are Committed or should we be Committed

Busy three days...Ran 8+ on Friday and work-out at the Y. Then back to work. Friday night George and I made the final payment for the Quest. We are now officially committed to the Transrockie Run!!! No turning back now.

I got the final results of SL 5 my Garmin was right my time was 38:57. I feel much better about the race NOW!! 38 sounds better then 39!!!

Saturday I had to take-off. Too busy...took Freddy to the Hit/Pitch/Run finals that was a 5 hr deal. I do not think he will be going to Yankees Stadium but he had fun. Came home got some more of my garden in before the severe weather rolled in. Also had to clean the gutters while it was pouring. Weather broke enough to get our last LL game in before the play-offs begin. We snapped our 7 game losing streak just in time for the play-offs. The kids played great. Got home at 9:30 just about past my bedtime.

Sunday...Church, breakfast and long run. Did 13+ felt so,so my Achilles started to bother me around the 8 mile mark. Ran through it. When I finished I stretched it out and it feels Ok. Put the rest of my Garden in and cleaned up the yard...took a nap and had a beer.

Another busy week coming up...Helen and Katie will be gone for three days. Leaves Freddy and I on our own. Could be a scary situation. Will keep you posted how we make out. We also have a play-off game while they are gone.

Need to book some flights for The Quest.

Day 81

Not 100% but better then Tuesday. Got in 6+ then went to LL practice. Last regular season game Saturday...then Play-offs start. Then my job is really on the line.

Hope to do 8 tomorrow and 12 on Sunday.

Day 80

Had too much going on today to run. Went to Yankee Stadium for a tour of the old ball park before they tear it down. Freddy and I went. Brought back a lot of memories of my Dad. Freddy had a good time.

Then we lost our 7th in a row. Totally bummed.

Hope to get back my running stride tomorrow. Head cold I think is getting better.

George, your Mom is in my prayers. I'll call you tomorrow.

Day 79

Ran 5 + miles. Still not right...no energy. I think I peaked to soon. Have been going over the training schedule and comparing it to my schedule something is going to have to give. I need to figure it out some more.

George, we are going to have to start looking into travel arrangements and equipment. Check!

Day 78

Day Off. Head cold still kicking my butt. Got 10hrs of sleep last night. Marched in the Memorial day parade. The weather was perfect unfortunately not that big of a crowd. The ceremony was nice and of course I cried when they played taps.

I hope to get back to a better work-out tomorrow.

Day 77

Head cold is really killing me. Went for my long run did 10+ felt like 20. 1st time I felt like I will not make it. Legs felt fine even after yesterday's race where I pushed myself pretty hard. I had no energy and could not breath. Was wiped out when I got home and I am still whooped 7hr after the run. I hope this cold starts to get better. Did not do my normal routine today...no suicide walk... trying to stay with the transrockie schedule.

I heard from the folks who put together the training schedule. They got back to me about my question on the mileage. They said we should maintain the higher mileage level we had been at. They also said we should go up and then down with our mileage. I am not sure I know what means. I will e-mail them again...I may join there club its $160 a month. I think I need the help.

Freddy and I will be marching in the Memorial Day parade tomorrow. It's tradition!!! I always get teary eyed when they play taps and the old veterans stand there at attention. It a shame more people do not attend the parade.

I think I will lay off the running tomorrow and hope my cold gets better. I also need to get my plants in.

Day 75 and 76

Friday did not run but went to the Y for stomach and upper body work. Cold still kicking my butt. Left for Jersey shore around 4:00. Picked up our race #'s and went to eat dinner at the Parker House...our Tradition. Played shuffle board with the kids ate dinner and off to the kids race. The weather was perfect. Freddy finished 3rd in the 10 year heat. Katie finished in the middle of the pack 12-14 heat. She held up well...she has the body of long distance runner tall and skinny but no endurance.

After the race we went to Rick's house. They have a beautiful house with a pool. Rick had just got back from London in the afternoon...which was a good thing. So we only had a couple beers and we were in bed before 11:00. The SL 5 is at 8:30am.

Woke-up at 7:00am my cold still bothering me. Rick was going to drive Henry(my buddy from WW who was also running) and me to the race. There were over 9,500 runners. The weather again was perfect. Rick and I have been going to this race for over 25 years you would think we would have the parking routine down by now. Team knucklehead 2. Last year we lost each other and the car. This year we could not get to the car because it was parked in the middle of the course and we had to wait until all the runners/walkers finished. Luckily Rick's wife Marydett came to picked us up.

The race is along the ocean and goes inland around a lake and you finish on the ocean side. Keeping with my historical strategy Henry and I lined up at he front of the pack with the Elite runners...of course! Did not want to run in the middle of 9500 people. Still did not get off to a great start the 1st mile was 8:10. Although my Garmin said 7:50. At the 3 mile mark my cold was making sick to my stomach almost threw-up. But still maintaining 8 min pace. Started to settle in and finished with sub 8's. Official race time 39:30 but my Garmin said 39. Overall happy with the results could have done better if not for the cold.

Went back to Rick's house...Freddy and Katie were in the pool the temp was 60. Henry came back to Rick's but had to go back to WW as he was leaving for Mexico City tomorrow. Had breakfast helped Rick put together a hammock. Not that I was much help...I can't screw in a light bulb. We were back in WW by 1:00 and on the couch taking a nap by 1:15. After my nap I finished turning over the garden. Having a beer now and plan to go to bed early tonight...watching Lion King w/kids.

Hope to go long tomorrow.

Day 74

Still feeling under the weather. Almost took the day-off. Would have if not for SL 5. Wanted to get one more 5 miler in before the race. It is no fun running with a cold/sinus issues hard time breathing and tired. But got it done in a light rain.

Will take tomorrow off. Long day ahead. Off to the NJ shore...Spring Lake. Katie and Freddy are running in the kids race tomorrow night. Last year Freddy finished 2nd in the 9yr old race. Will be staying over at Rick's house so we do not have to get up to early on Saturday. I'll have to watch my beer intake...Rick is a bad influence.

Hope your trip to the lake was a good one. Running up there should be good. Better then the heat in Dallas. Plus you should be able to do some hills.

Day 73

Well, I am officially sick got whatever the kids and Helen have...Not happy at all. Especially with the SL 5 only 3 days away. However, I am relieved I thought I was having leg and muscle issues but it was just I was getting sick. Took 2 extra strength excedrin's and went to the Y anyway. Gutted out 5 and the rest of my work-out. I expect to crash very shortly...that is why I am posting early. Plus Freddy has a concert tonight he has a singing role but he was coughing his brains out as of this morning.

George, do you think we should order 2 pair or run in them and if we like them order more. Road Runner is pretty good with sizes I will go with the 9 on the trail shoe. I have three brand new 1223 NB so I will pass on the regular running shoe. Although, I wonder if I should try a new shoe ?

Diet is my Achilles heel. I need more veggies which I am not found of and forget about soy milk and all those mixes you are talking about. Although I am an avid fan of your Metamucil mix. I do find myself in need of an energy boost during the day. Sleep is another factor... I need more of it. Getting to bed before 10 would be a help.

Day 72

Lost again... 6 in a row....

Day-off. Good thing I am under the weather...everyone around is sick. Not happy about that.

George, I have been taking Omega 3 for about a year now. I was taking it for my cholesterol levels. I have been eating almonds for protein and I love eggs. I know you hate eggs but they are good source of protein.

Hope to get back to my Y routine tomorrow. The Spring Lake 5 is this Saturday but my legs feel tired. I hope I can rally for a sub 40 effort.

Day 71

Of course everything that could go wrong did last night. Freddy threw-up 3x, dog and cats were fighting and I got 3hrs of sleep if I was lucky. Then my director called out sick and half the school was sick. Helen is having a good time at her seminar!!!!

George, got the shorts you recommended. Ran in them today felt pretty good...look good too. May wear them to work in the summer. Was able to get 4 miles in today but no Y work-out. It was not a strong 4 but at least I got it in.

Posting before LL game in case we lose I will be in no mood to post. Not a very positive attitude I know but losing does that to you. Have to remain positive, however half my coaching staff will be missing tonight.

Day 70

George, that is exactly how I feel when I get done with my long runs...I keep telling myself trust the training. I think once I get a couple of back to back long runs in I will have a better feeling. But it does weigh on my mind. I think what really is a worry is getting the time to get those back to back runs in. When I get done I usually have an energy burst as long as I stretch properly at the end. But a couple hours later I get tired.

Today, Helen left for her seminar. But I kept up my Sunday routine. It was raining pretty good here...but I got the suicide walk in. I was the only one out on the road today but it was fine I actually enjoyed it... the rain was a distraction. You know what they say... Life is not always sunny and 70!!

I have been rethinking the trail shoe idea and I think that maybe the way to go. I was running on some rocks and mud Saturday I think a sturdy trail shoe maybe a good idea. I also came across a Gore-tex jacket and pants on Mountaingear .com. It was not cheap but I think it is what we need I will e-mail you the items tomorrow. Plus I love the NB technical t-shirts I bought. I could not believe how they kept me dry and when I got done they did not smell bad either.

Not sure what to do tomorrow...need to be home for the kids and I have a LL game tomorrow night. I'll have to figure it out.

Day 69

This was one long day. Did a 12.5 miles this morning. Felt so so. But got it done. Total miles this week 36.

Started getting my garden ready for planting it is a project and a half every year. Energy levels are dwindling.

Lost our 5th game in a row tonight but we played our best game to date. We will get there!

That is it for today.

Day 68

Did my Y workout again... weather was nasty. Did 5 on the treadmill did not feel great. Finished up with stomach , upper body and leg work.

Looking to do a long run tomorrow...not sure how long I want to go. The training schedule calls for 8 on Sunday but I will not start Sunday runs until next week.

Most of my household is sick and Helen is leaving for three days on Sunday for a seminar in Delaware. Should be an interesting three days around here. Hope to keep my training routine in tacked but will see. I also have 2 LL games during that period as well. I better go to bed now!!!

Day 67

George, the write-up sounded fine. But why did you rush...don't you have plenty of time on your hands!!!! A man of leisure like yourself!

A busy day but it was a fun day. Played golf. We had a fun back 9. We played for $1. My partner was 75 years old. We played against 17 year old high school kid and 45 year old Dad who brings his kid to my school. They were giving us 10 strokes. The kid was on the high school golf team. George the 75 year old kept teasing them that there combined age did not equal his.
WELL, George and I beat them outright. We could not stop laughing.

I carried my bag and felt pretty good... did not get tired near the end of the round. Played in 41/2hrs.

LL practice was better tonight...half the kids listen tonight!!!

George, did you order those shoes for me ?

I am racking my brain for a solution to your house problem. I think you need an honest assessment from your broker what you are facing value wise and a time frame for the market rebound. I know renting may not cover the entire nut but it could defray some of the nut. Plus the renter may fall in love with the house and want to buy. Anyway, that is my 2 cents for tonight.

The outplacement stuff is always a joke. I think they are run by people who can not find jobs themselves. Networking is a good idea but you knew that anyway. I think your relationships with your former customers is the way to go. Dallas is a dynamic market you should have no problem when you are ready to get back in.

Looks like an in door day tomorrow at the Y. Rain headed are way in NJ.

Day 66

George, you are beginning to sound like Sat Sandhu very technical...you must be copying his blog. We heard from the better half of the Sandhu's today...Jo. She left a nice comment. I think we will have a good time with them come August.

Did you get the media e-mail from Transrockie ? That might take me a month to fill out. Since you are the brains of this team you are in charge of filling that out. You are the articulate one...do not take that as an insult!!

I have not looked at the trail shoes yet but hope to do it over the next couple of days. Also, did not hear from TCR on the training schedule.

I have to say those technical t-shirts I bought are great. I think I will buy a couple more when we figure out the trail shoe issue.

I love reading the old classics and that is great idea...I think I will do that when Katie starts reading the classics. The only problem for me is it takes me months to read a book...my lips move when I read.

OK, ran 6 miles today felt pretty good. I only planned to run 4 but I was exploring some new trails and felt good so I kept going. Finished my work-out with the usual stomach and upper body work. However, I have added some leg machines to the workout. Tomorrow, hopefully back to cross training...Golf. The weather looks to be OK.

Day 65

Well took today off my normal Tuesday. But it was a busy day at work and LL. Lost again tonight 4 game losing streak...8-7. Freddy got the lost. They will never renew my contract.

George, I sent an email to the TCR people( the ones that produced the training schedule). Maybe I will get a response. The questioned I asked was the base question ie 35mile base should we back it down to 21 or stay at 35 until they go to 48. Maybe I will hear something tomorrow or they will try and sell me something.

I take a size 8.5 D normally...like I said in some NB I have to go to a 9. So whatever size you think I should get I'll will try a pair. If it does not fit would she mind if I sent it back?

Day 64

George, I do not think trading houses will help your situation...the mortgage is thing you need to trade. I doubt your buyer will assume your mortgage or will he? Even if he does your bank will have to approve it as well.

What shoe are you running in ? I just bought (2) 1223 New Balance and those shorts you recommended. But I am not sure if I want to run in the 1223 for the quest. Or how many shoes we will need.

Did my Monday routine...ran uphill for 5 miles on the treadmill. Felt pretty good.
I think I will follow the Transrockie workout when the mileage gets to where I am at now. Does that makes sense?

Day 64 It is a Small World.

Graduation was very nice. The weather was perfect and ceremony was not too long only about an hour. George, UCONN offers a 6 year program...I turned to Helen when they announced this group of people and said these most be the Dummies. But this a real program. Can you imagine if Leo's had a 6yr program when we were there. We would not have survived!!!

Anyway, Keri's degree is a BS Kinesiology (the study of exercise). She is going to be trainer for a sports team eventually. I told her to keep tabs on our blog to give us some advice on our training. After the Ceremony we went back to her professor's house for a party. There I learned he was going to run the Transrockie run this year as well. But he had a change of plans and is going to do it next year and conduct some kind study on the runners. It is a small world!!!


Got to talk to Paulie about our quest. Off course he gave me one more thing to worry about. Hypothermia, says we need to be careful gear wise that we have warm clothes after a tough climb as we will be sweating heavy and then the weather can change especially at the elevations we will be at.

He was leaving for Guyana tonight to build a small hospital in the Jungle somewhere. They were going to try to bring drinkable water to the hospital. He said anytime you want some tips an how to live without a steady job and travel to remote area give him a buzz. After he gets back from Guyana he is headed for Yosemite for the summer where he will be working at the park in the back country chasing bears.

Took about 4 hours to get back to NJ. Had to take a couple of detours due to the Mother's Day traffic. Got home in time to get the suicide walk in.

Day 63

George send me the product # for those shorts. I just bought some Technical T's from them.

I am up in Manchester at a Marriott Inn getting ready for bed. Did not run today I am feeling guilty. But I would not have made it. Almost turned onto Rt. 2 when I got into Hartford. I am hoping to get my suicide walk in tomorrow if I get home at a decent hour. The Graduation is at 9:00am so I have a chance.

We lost another LL game... got killed. I am giving up!!!!

Day 62

Miserable day in NJ. Had to stay inside today at the Y did not bring my rain gear. Ran 5 on the treadmill at a constant pace...trying to get steady. Still not 100% but I think I am on the mend.

Read yours & Sat's weight goals... I think as the training picks-up those goals/weight will melt away. I am targeting 160 but I think 155 is not out of reach as the mileage increases. I have hit 162 after a long run and the most important miles are coming up.

Off to Ct tomorrow after our LL game. Not sure how many miles I will run tomorrow. Have a 3+ hour drive do not want to fall asleep at the wheel. Hopefully, there will not be too much traffic.

Day 61

The Weather was shaky so no golf today. Was not really up for golf anyway. Almost passed on my run was feeling pretty tired and sick. But forced myself to go even in the rain. Ended up doing 6 miles and amazingly I felt 10x better. Looking forward to tomorrow's work-out.

George,I will be up in your old neck of the woods on Saturday. My niece is graduating from UCONN on Sunday. Not sure how I am going to get my long run in this weekend. May just rest this weekend.

Did you get that e-mail ?

Day 60...The Fountain of Youth

Well 60 days in! I thought I change the picture on our blog to show everyone how we are doing after 60 days of training. Our training regiment has been paying dividends. Excersie is truly the fountain of youth. We have turned back the hands of time. Some people who know us may say we lost 20 years plus. My excersise program is so intense my hair is growing back!!! Anyone interested in buying my excersie program just leave your name and address.

Today, the fountain of youth left me. My worse work-out since starting the quest. I think I am coming down with one the many germs circulating in the school. Hopefully, nothing too terrible. Did my Y work-out. Ran 4.5 mostly on grass and trail. Got back inside my buddy Joe who is 85 and is always giving me grief says I looked worse them him. He is a pistol...he still hawking the ladies. He has been working hard on this one lady...I hope he gets lucky. Someone has too. My buddy Carmen still missing in action.

Not sure what I am doing tomorrow maybe playing golf or not ! Just hope I do not feel worse then today.

Day 59

Day-off. However,work was no picnic. Still a little tired hope I get a good night sleep and come back tomorrow stronger.

George, you need a financial planner. Here is my advice free of charge...Sell everything. Put it 3/4 balanced mutual funds and get a good night sleep. Or go to Vegas and put all on Red 42!!!

I forwarded the e-mail to you this morning. It looks like Dennis is doing Ok.

Day 58

Went uphill for 5 miles+ on the treadmill. I was working hard today but maxed out at 7% for 5 minutes. I was whooped when I got done and my legs were a little sore. Well I ran for six straight days and probably averaged about 6 miles a day. Not 20. However, I also went to LL games,practices,and work which might equal the other 14 miles and then some. Do feel that I am getting stronger.

Next week I start the training program from Transrockie website. However I am starting at a better base then the program calls for.

Day-off tomorrow. I could use it. LL game tonight...we got killed 15-10. Nobody played well including the manager!!!

Day 57

My usual Sunday routine with a couple of wrinkles. Went to church but we skipped our traditional breakfast stop. Freddy at the last minute decided to participate in the Pepsi, Hit,Run and Pitch competition. He has just started to get into baseball and he tries hard to play well. But I would say he is average. So...he goes ahead and wins the overall 9/10 Hit,Run and Pitch competition. He is also a knucklehead he could care less. But he gets to go on to the state championship in couple of weeks with his best friend. Going with his best friend I think is what makes him excited.

Anyway a good way to start a Sunday.

Did my suicide walk 4 miles. Kept my 15min/mile pace up. My legs felt pretty good after the 13. Just feel a little stiff tonight. Loaded some more songs on the I-pod today. I need to start getting different play lists. Although, I am boring guy I can listen to same songs over and over again... which I have been doing for the past 2wks.

Back to the Y tomorrow...hill work-out on the treadmill.