Day 46

     We are experiencing the warmest year on record here in the Ozarks. We are also short on rain so things are dry. The warmer temps do make for more pleasant running. I can do without the frigid north winds that's for sure!
   Today we are close to record highs with upper 70's and sunshine! I ran 9 miles and was able to average 11:20's. I feel really good about where I am in my training program. I am gradually slimming, I don't really expect to reach my goal of 170 but I could be around 176-177. That would be grand! I am a 6 footer with a muscular frame so I carry extra weight. I've been diligent in doing push ups so my arms are strong!
   I am pumped about the race! Hope all is well with you!! Peace!

Day 48-

     Monday Monday! Tired! Had to get up at 5 this morning to make a hospital visit. Then I dawdled around knowing I needed to get the "long run" in today. Have you ever done that? You keep putting off getting out the door?
   I finally made it out the door into the perfect running weather only to feel very fatigued and hungry! I stopped back by the house after 3.2miles and drank 16 oz of water and ate two big handfuls of raisins. Suddenly I felt great!
   I kept telling myself run at the pace you could run forever....I finished the 12 miles! The last 4 miles were ever improving in pace, too.
  So I'm still on track for the race at the end of December-48 days away. I weighed in last week at 180 so I've dropped 5 pounds. Man it's tough to lose!!! Hope you are all well! Peace!

Day 50

    Man time is slipping by fast!! I ran an easy 7 miler yesterday and am thankful for the time on the roads. I am able to think and relax as I slog out the miles. One thing I notice about running as you age; it takes more time to shift into running gear. Once you get into the "running zone" all is well...it's just the getting there that's the challenge. I am now doing a 5/1 run walk pattern and I'm gradually eliminating the walk segments. I actually ran a 9:40 last mile yesterday!
   Today I will do a three miler with specifically targeted quarter pickups ay 5K pace. I may have to run farther considering how long it takes me to get into the zone!
 Hope all is well with you! Peace!

Day 53-

    Well what can I say but wow!! The most perfect of days regarding weather! A runner couldn't ask for better! 57 degrees, sunny and breezy!
   I ran kind of slow. I don't really know why? I felt good but I couldn't get any pace? Oh well, I survived and knocked off a respectable effort for an old man.
   8 miles today, rolling hills and plenty of fresh air! Hope you are well! Peace!

Day 54-

     Had to make a quick trip to Omaha Nebraska over the weekend. I wasn't able to get any miles in so I finished the week with about 4 miles under my desired total.
   I did manage to get the "long" run in yesterday. A nice little 11 miles. Well today is election day. All I can say is "God help us!"
   Hope you are well! Peace!

Day 59-runner

    The weather has turned more like fall. Today I was strong and energetic because of the 60 degrees, grey skies, and drizzle. I loved it! Man it is such a blessing to still be able to "run".
  I know my pace is way slower than when I was a young man but I'm still going!
6.2 miles today. That gives me a total of 23.2 for the week! I was wanting 27.5 for the total but may be difficult due to the constraints on my time the next few days.
   So....hope all is well with you! Peace!

Day 60-record heat

    The last 2 days have been record setting days regarding the temps. This is the longest stretch of Indian Summer I can remember. It does look like a slight cool off is coming tonight, though. We will have to face the music sometime!
   I ran a solid 7 miler today at 10:30's. Not bad for the level of effort nd terrain. I am having great difficulty in being consistent in mileage increase. This week is going to be tough because I will be out of pocket.....unable to run on a couple of days....thus effecting my mileage goals.
   Oh well....such is life....hope you are well! Peace!