Sunday run returns

Sunday the weather was cooler, a lot cooler, more conducive to running. Cloudy and a noticeable breeze. We ran along the main road before turning into a lane. In the field next to the lane I saw a man with a metal detector. I could not resist the temptation so we stopped and had a word with him. His haul for the morning was a broken child's toy cap gun from the seventies. Metal detecting can be very hit and miss unless you do a lot of homework into local history. It can become a bit addictive, the next sweep could uncover a hidden haul.

Reluctantly we set off again along the lane, then up the steep field. I was pleased to be able to run all the way to the top after losing so much time through injury. A man was at the top with his daughter collecting elderflower to make elderflower champagne. Running down through the woods with the breeze blowing it was very pleasant. After the woods we ran down a field across the stream and up the other side before entering a village. The footpath beside the pub is overgrown so we had to walk up it. Once into the open fields again we were able to press on again. Fields that a few months ago were flooded are now as hard as rock due to the hot dry weather we have enjoyed. It was six and a half miles at a fairly sedate pace but that was exactly what we needed. We now have a base to build on.  

Run in the sun.

Well get out we did. Only twice but at least we made the effort. Tuesday we ran three miles and Thursday four. Twelve miles for the week was less than I had hoped for but under the circumstances it was acceptable. Saturday is forecast to be cooler and if that carries over into Sunday we can begin to build up the mileage again.

Too Hot To Handle.

After completing a second three mile run last week I was keen to build on that momentum. This morning it was hot and forecast to get even hotter so it was best to get it done. We ran on the side of the road that was in the shade of some large trees. This ploy worked well for a mile when we changed course running along a lane before entering a field. The ground underfoot was rock hard and unforgiving. The sun was beating down and I was beginning to sweat freely. I took a bottle of water but this had little effect. I got progressively slower as we went along, partly due to the heat and in part due to the fact that I had missed so much training. It was good to be running again and I have no after effects on my Achilles. The weather forecast for the next week is more sunny hot weather but I will try and get out there.

One step at a time.

Yesterday I took a step in the right direction. A three mile run without any adverse reaction from my Achilles tendon. It had been two weeks since my last attempt and eight weeks since the injury occurred. Even the cycling, which had been reduced during Wimbledon tennis fortnight, has done little to retain much fitness. It will be a long slow road to reach the level of fitness I had achieved before the injury happened. I do not enjoy running in hot weather so a little rain would be very welcome.

I have been out with my camera a few times and have posted some of my pictures.

Poppies in oilseed rape fields.

Poppies in perfusion.

A scene from one of our regular runs.

Tranquility.

Canal in town center.

Sign depicting what was sold at the town market.

The life cycle continues.

Two weeks have gone by and I am still unable to run due to my injured Achilles. I have caught up with all my gardening duties and done a certain amount of cycling. Not that cycling is keeping me fit, more of token effort to get out inthe fresh air.

Had a very pleasant day on Friday, we went to Wimbledon to watch the tennis. Having tickets for center court we were able to watch the matches of Laura Robson, Janowicz and Murray. Although it only lasted three sets the Janowicz match was the most entertaining. Robson was not at her best and it was all too easy for Murray.

It is good to see the Tour de France has started. Today it is Corsica which looks like an ideal holiday destination. Maybe one day when I win the lottery.

Run,walk and curse

I started out on a run today. This was the first time for three weeks that I had attempted running. The cycling was not really keeping me fit so I thought I would give it a go. It took two and a half miles for me to realise it was a mistake. The two mile walk home gave me plenty of time to reflect on the decision to run. I guess I will be back on the bike for the foreseeable future.

Cycling! That's pants.

Another week gone and still not able to run. Cycled on Thursday, Friday and today Sunday. The new cycle shorts that I bought for today's run are padded but I still felt a lot of the bumps in the road. Just to compound matters I picked up a rear tyre puncture as we were nearing home. I should really go out and mend it but it is Sunday afternoon and the final of the French Open tennis is on TV so I will watch that instead. I watched some of the motorcycle racing from Portugal earlier, fantastic close racing, superb skill.

Bank Holiday at Blenheim Palace.

Cricket on the back lawn at Blenheim Palace.

Re enactment of the Civil War staged at Blenheim Palace on the May Bank Holiday.

Spinning wheels

Tuesday was the third day in succession on the bike. It’s not hard work or to be more accurate I don’t make it hard work. It is not a training session but a means of stretching my injured leg without putting any strain on the injury. Spinning the wheels for three quarters of an hour in a medium gear gets me out of the house and with the sun shining it is quite pleasant. The injury is still painful and I do not anticipate running again anytime soon. As it improves I will put a bit more effort into the cycle rides to get the fitness level back up. It would be nice to get up to twenty five or thirty miles; this would give a change of scenery. We may also incorporate cycling into our normal routine but the running must come first.

Spinning wheels

Monday we both went for a bicycle ride. We are blessed with countless paths and tracks for running but it is difficult to find suitable off road routes for cycling. The off road sections that we rode were made easier because of the dry weather we are enjoying. I do enjoy riding through mud but this was an injury enforced ride so it was just a case of spinning the wheels in a low gear to exercise the Achilles without putting any strain on it. The sun was shinning and flys battered my sunglasses. My saddle did not feel quite as hard as Sunday and I may be tempted to go out again today. It is not as tiring as running but I do get time to see a bit more of the countryside.

Down at Heel.

Achilles too painful to run so have been forced to rest it. Went for a short bicycle ride today, the first for over a year. I am going to try another tomorrow but I will probably need a cushion. The days this week has been occupied with building a workbench for the garage and gardening. Not as much fun as running but it had to be done.

Went to the Palace and saw the Civil War

Achilles tendon problem prevented any running for most of last week. To replace our long Sunday run we went to Blenheim Palace at Woodstock and did a lot of walking. It was a hot sunny day and there was a re-enactment of a battle from the English Civil War in progress. It made an interesting spectacle for us and the friends that went with us, particularly their four year old daughter. A cricket match was being played just behind the palace; we sat on the grass and watched while we ate our picnic. The front of the house is quite imposing. It looks over the bridge that straddles the lake and beyond to a monument on the hill opposite. Crossing the bridge we could see lots of water fowl on the lake and large carp swimming just below the surface. The climb up to the monument was rewarding; the view looking back towards the house was the stuff of picture postcards. I can remember visiting the Palace forty years ago and it hasn’t changed a bit. I can also remember playing in a football match in the grounds in the early sixties against a local village side. I cannot remember who the other side was but I do remember scoring a couple of goals and we won.

Monday was another sunny day and although my tendon is still painful I took our friends for a run. We did one of my favourite routes. Just over six miles, off road, uphill and downhill we all enjoyed it. My Achilles didn’t think much of the downhill sections over rough ground or when I tried to speed up a bit but overall it was Ok.

Achilles could stop run.

Hmm. May have overdone the comeback bit. Achilles was a bit sore after the run yesterday but I decided to run today anyway. We had taken the decision to only do a short run so I thought I should be able to manage that. Hoping the stiffness in the ankle would ease after a mile or two we set off. Well it didn’t in fact it was becoming more uncomfortable the further we ran. We did some off road which was not the wisest thing but I do like it. We managed nearly five miles but since the run the ankle has stiffened up. Tomorrow is looking like a day off but you never know, we will see how it feels in the morning. I am keen to get at least fifteen miles this week but we will see. The good news is, I have no ill effects from the recent influenza.

First Short Run This Year

Influenza which lasted for two weeks and stopped us running has finally passed. Today we were able to hit the road again, not completely recovered but well enough to try four miles. It went ok, more of an ease ourselves back into things than a hard workout. A flat route was what was requested so that’s what we got. We managed to add into the route some off-road running which was good. The weather has improved in the weeks we have missed so I was able to venture out in shorts. White legs like sticks of celery I wonder what the neighbours thought. Never mind I felt better for it. Tomorrow will be interesting, if all is well we will be out again for a longer run and see how the body stands up to that.

Targets have gone out of the window for the moment but I would still like to achieve fifteen or perhaps twenty miles for the week. Mileage isn’t the be all and end all these days, we must be sensible.

Six of the best.

Thursday we were Poll Clerks for the County Council Elections. This involved leaving home at 5.45am to get to the Polling Station and set up ready for voting to begin at 7.00am. A steady flow of voters came in all day until we closed the doors at 10.00pm. After all the equipment had been packed away we were driven home. A long day but enjoyable, voters that came were in good humour. This helps the time pass more quickly.

Friday it was business as usual. Shopping followed by another session in the garden. Carrots, radishes and spring onions are now in the ground. Better late than never.

Saturday we were again up early. Invited to Essex for the day we needed to get away on time. The Sat Nav said it would be a two hour journey, what she did not know was that a tanker had shed its load on the M25 at 5.00am that morning which closed it all day. We took evasive action but so did lots of the other traffic. A huge detour failed to outflank the congestion and the journey took three and a half hours to complete. The return journey went much more according to plan.

Tired when I got up today it was decided that a ten mile run would be too far. Six miles would be a more realistic goal and then catch up later in the week. We headed out along the main road, one mile downhill then one and a half up the other side. I must have been a little under the weather as I couldn't get my heart rate down. It was between one sixty and one eighty beats per minute but went up to just over two hundred for a short while which was a little worrying. Heading across the fields we had to slow down a little and the pulse came back down. It was a nice morning for a run and there was quite a few people taking advantage of the sunshine. It was noticeable that crops were further advanced in Essex. Oil seed rape was taller and in full flower, way ahead of the same crop here. Lilac was about to flower which is about two weeks ahead of ours.

Done and dusted in four days.

The already tight schedule is becoming unmanageable. Monday had already been called into action, so was yesterday and now today. I was determined not to miss the twenty five mile target but the price was to run four days in a row. Yesterday's run had to be moved to the afternoon, I thought a nice gentle four would leave today's run more manageable. We started gently enough but as so often happens with short runs they tend to speed up. Admittedly it was reasonably flat but we ran some off road and it turned into a race. I came second but I blamed the digging that I have been doing this week for that.
Today we needed four and a half miles to hit target and I was not to be drawn into another race. We set off at a reasonable pass and maintained it. When we were running down our usual track I glanced into the ploughed field on my left and saw a man walking up and down. He was in the middle of the field and walked about thirty yards in one direction, turned around and walked back. I thought it was a little odd but it was difficult to get a clear view through the hedge. At the next gap in the hedge I stopped to get a better view and could see what he was doing. He was carrying out a geophysical survey. A geophysical survey is what people use to look for ancient buildings and settlements that have long disappeared from the surface but foundations still show on a graph that is produced by the machine that they carry. It's like metal detecting for old buildings etc. they often use it for television programs like the BBC series "Time team" which Tony Robinson presented.  But what are they doing in a field near me? If I had not just started out on a run I would have walked over and asked. Pondering what was happening occupied my mind for most of the run. The run was a circular route of four and a half miles. Mostly downhill in the first half and, you've guessed mostly uphill in the second. It was a mixture of on and off road, the sun was shinning and a pleasant experience. The man was still in the field doing his survey when we ran back past but he did not look as though he wanted to be disturbed so we carried on.
Having completed our twenty five miles for this week already there is a slight temptation to push on  for thirty or more but the schedule just will not allow it.

Back to our old ways.

A busy schedule this week means we have to get our running in when we can. Monday, normally a day of rest was pressed into action. The weather was fine and the sun was shinning so why not. After yesterday's ten miles and bearing in mind our schedule I thought it would be nice to get another six under our belts. I also thought it would be good to revisit a route that we had not done in its entirety since well before Christmas because of the flooding. As you may have guessed it would contain a substantial distance off road. Steep fields were followed by running downhill through a wood and fields, across a stream then uphill again into a village. Crossing the Main Street we took a path up beside the pub, through a paddock with a horse in it and then a couple of rough fields down to the road. The fields on the other side had been flooded for months but we thought it was time to give it a go. A few wet patches remained but in the main it was pretty good although crops that have been planted are in poor condition and the yield will be low. A short burst along the road and it was back to the fields. On higher ground, they were a lot drier and progress was good. Arriving home the Garmin had recorded six and a quarter miles. The speed was a bit down but this reflected the type of ground we had covered so another good run completed.

Anniversary Waltz

This day forty five years ago, Sunday the twenty eighth of April nineteen sixty eight, we were not running but walking down the aisle to get married. How things have changed. Today we had breakfast in bed then got up and went for our run. We couldn't decide if it was cold enough for gloves or not, after much debate we decided not. Setting off at a comfortable pace we soon got warm. Along the main road and down a track then a very pleasant route across open fields. We then ran alongside a disused railway line at the end of which we emerged into a village well known for its Morris dancing traditions. Along the Main Street past the church, the bells were ringing to signify that the morning service was about to begin. Leaving the village we turned right out into the country again. Over the top of the M40 then dropping down to the Oxford canal. We passed narrow boats moored up as we ran along the Towpath then ran under the M40. After a mile and a half we left the canal behind us. Crossing a red brick footbridge we climbed a steep field onto a track that lead us back to a main road. We only stayed a short distance on this road before taking to a track that lead us close to home. It was ten miles exactly, a good start to the week.
What a good way to spend our anniversary, what do you think?

Wellington Memorial.

With only four miles to run to complete our target for the week we could afford to take it easy. We used the run to look at variations we could incorporate into our normal routes to freshen them up a little. On one of the deviations we came across a memorial to the aircrew who died when their Wellington bomber they were testing in 1942 crashed in bad weather killing all on board. A sobering moment and time to reflect.
The rest of the run threw up a few alternatives for us which was the object of the run. We also ran the required four miles to hit target thus bringing the week to a conclusion.

It's tough at the top.

It was a Sunday morning in September last year and we could not muster the enthusiasm to go for a run. We decided to go for a walk instead and look for a new route to run when we felt a bit more like it. The route that we walked was five miles long and definitely undulating, we decided we would need a reasonable level of fitness before we could tackle it. Winter set in and the wet weather made it impractical but today seemed perfect.
We set off at a modest pace knowing what was in store. It was the warmest day of the year so far and a pleasure to be out. Surprisingly running down the first track there was no one else about, no walkers or dog walkers. Crossing the main road we enter a field and hit the first hill, it is very steep and difficult to get into a rhythm. Once over the top the sun lights up the countryside and we could see for miles. Catching our breath we ran down the side of a hill to the stream at the bottom. Past a dozen bee hives which we give a wide berth to and follow the stream on a path that is like soft sand. After half a mile we turn sharp right and the main climb begins. The first section is up cultivated land. The hill is then too steep for ploughing and we are on grass. It would be all too easy to walk and probably as quick but we push on with thighs on fire. Eventually we can see it levelling out and we swing around the top of the field and can look down at the climb we have made. Someone walking their dog along by the stream looks tiny. After running through a gap in the hedge we skirt around a field that has broad beans just pushing through. On past a farm then up again to the highest point of the run before plunging steep downhill back to the main road. Climbing again towards town we are only a mile and a half from home. Lungs are bursting and legs are shot but a mile and a half to go we have to hold it together somehow. We made it and now only have four to run tomorrow. It will be flat.

Too good an opportunity to miss.

Another sunny day and a light south westerly breeze is too good an opportunity to miss. Breakfast digested it was time to get out and run. Half a mile of flat road to warm up with and then we are in our element. A short section of track was followed by our first taste of fields. The oil seed rape that is planted in the field is now a foot high and well established. In another month or so it will be chest high. When it reaches maturity it is chin high and covered in bright yellow flowers, which gives quite an unusual experience seeing just people’s heads bobbing up and down as we run. A short run down the main street of a village takes down an open track that has become very dusty. A bridge takes us over the small river which is much more peaceful now the winter rain and snow has passed. Continuing on the track it climbs gently around a field where horses graze. At the top we pass the farm which has had its barns converted and sold as upmarket accommodation. On the left is a small windmill that is about fifteen feet high and painted white. I must take a picture of it one day and find out what it was used for. Pumping water is my guess. We move on along the road and over a cattle grid before turning sharp right into a farm entrance and downhill. Through the farmyard we take a path that crosses the river again higher up stream then across the meadow that has sheep with their lambs grazing. There is a lake on the left that has water fowl on various kinds on it. The fields are sloping upwards and the running is becoming harder. Crossing a road we are then running on tracks again. We rejoin the track we went out on and make our way home. A circular route of five and a half miles, four of those being off road. Added to the run we did on Sunday this leaves less than nine to run to achieve target for the week.

Missed the marathon, but not much.

The marathon was already in progress when we left home for our Sunday morning run. We had planned to leave earlier but I overslept, a result of too much gardening yesterday. The sun was shinning and it was warm so I gave my legs their first glimpse of daylight this year. I also left my wind proof jacket at home. The first few steps came as a shock to my body but it soon adjusted. Stripped of the outer clothing meant I did not get so hot during the run. It was probably the most lumpy run that we do climbing over five hundred feet and burning eleven hundred calories. All the major climbs are in the second half but we got the pace right early on and it was enjoyable. Ten and three quarter miles it was our longest run for a long time and a very good start to the week. The late start and length of the run meant that we missed the finish of both the men's and women's marathon on TV but hey the run was worth it.

Lark Ascending

Friday already, where does the time go to. Well yesterday was spent mostly on the end on a spade in the garden digging for victory. Anyway my back is aching but no good grumbling just get on and run. Only a little over four miles to cover so the choice of routes was endless. Once again I chose mainly off road, we had a mixture of sun, rain, hail and thunder yesterday but I felt we could find some fields that would be relatively dry. Down a track and turning right down a path we were soon in open fields. Sheep with lambs took little notice of us as we skirted around where they grazed. I heard a skylark singing overhead, the first this year I think. Only one part of the field still slightly flooded so that was ok. Leaving the fields behind we ran up the Main Street through a village before turning onto a track that lead to within a short distance of home. The run was over four miles which means we have again reached our twenty five mile target for the week.
Good luck to all those running the London marathon on Sunday. We will probably go for a run early  then get home to watch the finish on TV.

Roe! deer,deer,deer.

With less than ten miles to run to achieve our weekly target we set off yesterday (Wednesday) knowing that a five plus run would leave a very modest effort on Friday. We ran the first part well within ourselves then put in a bit of effort on the first hill. Once over the top we coasted down the other side, not letting up we turned onto a country road that undulated until we came to a village. I had to stop at the main road to cross and could not get running again on the hill the other side. After walking the steepest part I set off again, the road continued rising for the next half a mile before I got some respite. Some more undulations and then we turned onto the main road. Looking into the field on my left I saw four Roe Deer grazing on a crop on winter barley. It was the same place that I had seen them a couple of weeks ago. We pressed on taking a slight detour to add a bit more distance to the run. It was five and a half miles which only leaves four and a quarter for Friday. It was gardening in the afternoon or to be more precise digging. I may have overdone it a bit as my back is suffering today. Probably a good thing we are not running today although I have been gardening again.

Finally finished the book that I was reading, “The Secret Life of Bletchley Park by Sinclair McKay” It was very informative and showed the hard work that went into cracking the Germans coded messages during World War Two. It also talks about the men who pioneered computers which are also of great interest and how the British government were not willing to invest in computers commercially, leaving that to the Americans. The book is available on Amazon, you can click on the link on the right to view and purchase it if you so desire.

Off to a flying start.

Monday is a funny day; it used to be a day off running to fit in small jobs after the weekend. The unsettled weather we have been having has encouraged us to run when it is fine and for the last couple of weeks this has included Mondays. On the back of yesterdays ten miles I thought five today would be good and leave us a wide choice of days to complete the other ten.

It was sunny and mild; birds’ singing in the trees it was very pleasant. People who were out walking their dogs looked almost human. It was one of those if only days. If I hadn’t paused for breath here and run a bit harder there we would have recorded a good time. I suppose in part this was because it was mostly on the road and not as lumpy as normal. The last part was the worst as usual, a half mile drag up through the housing estate. A straight road that just keeps on rising then we turn a corner and climb again. Home cannot come soon enough. Shower then lunch followed by a spell in the garden digging. I was hoping it would be rain stopped play as my back is now killing me.

If it is fine tomorrow I’m not sure if I will be fit to run or not. Look on the bright side it may rain.

What no hat or gloves? Is it summer?

The first day I have gone for a run this year without the aid of hat and gloves. The sun was shining albeit there was quite a strong southerly wind blowing. Because of heavy recent rain I decided on a route that kept us mainly on the road. We set off at a brisk pace, this lasted for about three miles when the petrol started to run out. We had been running into the wind and when the course got a bit lumpy fatigue started to set in. I never recovered from this and it was tough going for the rest of the way. We saw a lot more runners out this week, most appeared to be travelling better than us. Unfortunately the worst of the hills were in the second half, knees wouldn't lift and lungs didn't convert oxygen into energy very efficiently. Walking up the steepest parts became the norm. Having finished last Sundays run at nine and a half miles I was determined to get ten this week if possible. With this in mind I altered the last mile to a downhill route and battled on to the end. When I uploaded the run to Garmin the walks that showed up on the graph were disappointing. Further analysis however showed that when we were running it was at a quickish pace which was a pleasant  surprise. Climbing four hundred feet and burning eleven hundred calories was a good mornings run.

Easing down it's Friday

The forecast was right, showers heavy at times. After one had just passed over we ventured out. We took a circular route which kept us mainly in the town and on the road. We only needed four and a half miles so that is what we got. Just a couple of small hills to stretch the lungs and the rest was reasonably flat. Another day in the garden yesterday digging had left me a little stiff so it was fine. I uploaded the run onto the Garmin site and also wrote it up in my diary as usual. I totalled up the miles that we have run this year; it is two hundred and eighty five or the equivalent of ten marathons. When we take into account the weather we have endured in the last few weeks it is not too bad. Factor in that a high percentage of the runs are off road it is acceptable. Anyway tomorrow is bacon sandwich for breakfast day and no running. The weather forecast for Sunday is not very good, more heavy showers but I expect we will run whatever.

Run for fun, dig for glory.

Rush hour traffic on the road outside was relatively quiet. If the rain was falling as was the forecast splashing would have been heard. Drawing the curtains and looking out confirmed it was still dry. A good opportunity I thought to increase our running total for the week without getting wet. The skies were grey but not heavy with rain, if anything it looked a little cold. Once on the move any thoughts of it being cold were soon dismissed. The ground has dried up with the exception of one or two low lying fields so this broadens our choice of route. The farmers have ploughed and planted most of the fields that they need to. This makes the footpaths across those fields very soft and takes more effort to get through them. When the weather warms up there will be a greater number of walkers and the paths will soon become compacted. We covered five and a half miles this morning, one and a half on the road and the rest across fields. This only leaves four and a half for tomorrow or Friday which will be very comfortable. After running it was time for another spell in the garden. I am turning a part of the lawn into a vegetable plot. I have uncovered enough Cotswold stone a build a dry stone wall along a part of the bottom boundary. I need to get on with the digging as I have bought some seed potatoes and they need to be planted. Digging and running doesn’t mix that well, I use all the muscles on my right side to dig and when I start running it takes a while to get rid of the stiffness.

Monday and we are running.

The weather forecast for the rest of this week is rain showers. Running in the rain is OK but to be avoided it if possible. It was this attitude that lead us to run today. Normally after a long run on Sunday we take Monday off but not this week. The joints were not too stiff as we set off and the little bit of sunshine gave the impression it was warm. I wanted to run five and a half miles to get right on top of the weeks target and leave an easy run in if the weather is not very kind. We didn’t start off that slowly, about three-quarter pace I would say. Checking the Garmin at two and a half miles confirmed this. We had already run quite a lot of it off road and were about to head into another field. A lap of the field was well over half a mile and a little bit up and down but nothing serious. Out onto the road again we had a gentle uphill gradient all the way home. It was the required distance and now we can look for gaps in any showers that may come to complete two further five milers. I must have been feeling fairly good because I mowed the lawn and did quite a bit of digging in the garden this afternoon. A robin and blackbirds were in close attendance eating up worms that I uncovered. Surprising how tame they become when food is available.

Spring in our step.

Overnight frost was followed by clear skies and bright sunshine. The wind has veered around to the south and is a lot more friendly. We set off along the road at a modest pace, I had a testing route planned so did not want to run too fast early in the run. Quickly turning onto a track we ran gently down hill for a mile, crossed a main road and then up a field. It was lung burstingly steep to begin with and after a short dip continued to climb again more gently. Past a farm, we ran along the farm track then turned left down a field. Through a gap in the hedge we emerged by a huge stone Archway. From here we could look across the valley and see the Obelisk on the hill opposite with the winding path leading up to it. We ran down the hill towards it, crossed a bridge over a stream and we were on the winding path. It is advisable not to look up just keep your head down and pump your knees. Passing the Obelisk we drop sharply downhill past a lake then run equally sharply uphill, on past another Folly across a flat field out onto the road. We turn left along the road which still has snow in the hedgerow. After a mile we enter a village but immediately go off road again. Skirting around some fields we emerge onto a country road then carry on past a castle and over a main road. The road climbs out of the village before levelling out, at this point we again go off road running around a huge field before our route takes us across some rough ground beside a farmhouse. We make our way carefully through a field that contains sheep with lambs then over some ploughed ground that was quite soft. Not wet just soft like deep sand. Through another hedge and we were back onto the track from where we started leaving an easy run home. The Garmin said we had covered nine and a half miles. According to my estimation six of these were off road and our longest run for a month. We climbed over four hundred feet and burned eleven hundred calories. A target of twenty five miles for the week should now be obtainable but you never know. If every day was like today I could begin to enjoy running.  

Wind abated so no excuses.

Bitter cold winds yesterday persuaded us not to run. I spent half of the day writing a chapter for my book but it was hard work. Today the wind had abated so no excuses just get out there and do it. We did not fancy anything too difficult just a pleasant run to clock up the last of the miles to reach target. We added a slight variation to our route just to freshen things up a bit. It can be boring running the same route all the time. You begin to race around it just to see how fast you can complete it which can take some of the enjoyment away. The fields that we ran in today were firm under foot which made it a whole lot easier. No significant hills so it was at a respectable pace without killing ourselves. We have completed twenty five and a half miles for the week and all parts are still in working order. If things stays like this we could have a good run on Sunday.

Joking aside it's good in the country.

Another sunny day! Two in a row! Is this spring, or a late April fool’s day joke. Too good to miss we got out early to take advantage of the conditions. We started off at what we term “talking pace”, a speed you can run at and hold a conversation. It was windy but the wind did not have the rawness that it had in the weeks gone by. It was quite pleasant and the first two miles went by quite quickly. We went up a short sharp hill and then across fields that we had not run for some months. They had been ploughed but the path was compacted by walkers, other runners and the wind giving it a hard crust. This off road part of the run was about two miles long with some stiles and the occasional gate to break our stride it was easy going. The last part of the run took us through a village then alongside a main road. A mile downhill followed by a mile up hill. It was not that steep but energy sapping all the same. We saw more runners on this section but none going in our direction so no chance to exchange pleasantries. Six and a half miles, more calories burned and nearer the target. We now need to run five point two miles minimum tomorrow or Friday to achieve the target. Even managed a bit of gardening this afternoon. If this weather continues I will have to put the lawnmower on the launch pad ready for action.

Suprise! Suprise! it's a sunny day.

Bright sunny day and the temperature was rising. Unfortunately we are waiting for a parcel to be delivered (it should have been delivered last week) otherwise we would have run early. I passed the time tidying the garden and then got stuck into some digging. Big mistake. The parcel arrived at 12.30 by which time I had been wielding the fork for a good two hours. To run or not to run that was the question. Wanting to regain my twenty five mile schedule and only running seven and a half on Sunday to miss today would put us too far behind. I thought if we took it steady and completed five we could recover from that position. We set off in hope rather than expectation but at least we were giving it a go. Along the road and then down a track for a mile, I checked my watch at the end. We were going too fast. The next mile was slightly downhill and I attempted to apply the brakes but failed miserably. We had run fast and were travelling at my race pace. My legs finally acknowledged that the pace had been too hot when we came to a hill. They rebelled to such an extent that they had to walk. At the top we set off again at a more sedate pace and almost got to the top of the next hill before swing left handed across the fields. Maybe it would have been better to run home on the road. The fields have dried quite a lot but it was still very sticky in places. I could not get my heart rate down to a comfortable level but with home in sight I struggled on. We did five point eight miles so are over half way to the target. If my back has recovered from today’s digging we will get out there tomorrow and clock up a few more miles.

Sunday run returns

The clocks moved forward today which means one hour less sleep. Overnight frost made it a chilly start to our run; the first Sunday that we had managed to hit the road for three weeks. A small amount of snow is still in the hedgerows but nothing significant. I decided to keep on the roads today to make life a little easier as I wanted to increase the distance. I was hoping to do ten miles but thought this was a bit ambitious as we had missed some training. The route was along country roads and a bit lumpy in places. Garmin recorded altitude gain of 340 feet so it was quite tough. It also recorded 900 calories burned and an acceptable average speed for the seven and a half miles covered. There were a few more runners out today, quite a few in shorts which I thought was a bit brave. With this start to the week it may be possible to achieve twenty five miles for the week.

The only wildlife spotted today was one common buzzard hovering over a field looking for Sunday lunch. Walkers dressed in winter clothes, some carrying camera's, were also in evidence.

Successful end to the week.

No long run on Sunday means that we had already revised our target down to twenty miles for the week. If we don’t do the longer run on a Sunday it is very hard to get motivated to do it during the week. Thursday I wanted to complete five and a half to leave just four and a half for Friday. We set off on a pre-planned route which would be a mixture of both on and off-road. We went along the main road before the first off-road down a track for one mile. A bit soggy in places but slightly down hill it was OK. Back onto the road for the next mile then into a field. We ran on through a small copse and into one of my favourite fields. We usually run down one side of it and then run diagonally across the middle rising about a hundred feet to the far corner. It is a good stamina building piece of work. Unfortunately since our last visit the farmer has ploughed it up, this made even running around the perimeter difficult. A little bit leg weary we ran the rest of the way on the road. Still we achieved the five and a half miles.

Today I thought four and a half miles around the houses would be fine. I got a bit bored after three miles and veered off down the side of a field. It looked alright so I thought why not? About a third of a mile long it was stickier than it looked. I could feel great lumps of mud being thrown up off my trainers and hitting the backs of my legs. I was quite pleased to get back onto the road and head for home.

I will be watching the weather forecast with interest and hoping normal service will be resumed on Sunday.

Back with a Vengeance

Patches of snow and ice still litter the grass. It is still freezing but the north easterly wind has subsided; this makes it feel a great deal warmer. Learning from my mistake of yesterday I left off the extra vest. Setting off alongside the main road we were surprised to see three Deer grazing contentedly in the field. They were feasting contentedly on the farmer’s crop of winter barley and took little notice as we ran past. We soon turned into a country road which after two short but sharp hills slopes downwards into a village. Across the main road we continued in a right handed arc, passing some twenty bee hives that have been over wintered sheltered beside a hedge, in a field waiting to be moved to a more suitable position when spring arrives. They should have been in their new quarters by now but bees do not work when it is cold. They stay in the hives swarming together to keep warm. They also need feeding on a sugar solution to keep them alive as winter rations that they had stored are nearly exhausted. On we went to the next village before crossing the main road once again and heading up the track on route home. On the track we met a couple with what looked like a Husky puppy. It was not on a lead and the owners did little to catch hold of it although they could see us running towards them for some distance. It did not respond to their calls and wanted to run alongside of us. I was tempted to keep going and let them retrieve it for themselves but we were heading towards another main road. It was not the dogs fault just thoughtless owners. I caught hold of its collar, pointed it in the right direction and gently propelled it in the right direction. I uploaded the days run onto the Garmin Connect website and was pleasantly surprised to find that despite our distractions it was one of our faster efforts. We may suffer tomorrow as a result but it appears the training is going in the right direction in spite of the weather interruptions.

No excuses, get out and run.

For two days I have looked out of the window and found reasons why I should not go running. Snow, ice and a ferocious north easterly wind being the main ones. Today looked better, most of the snow has melted and ice had been reduced to the odd patch. Fields would still be frozen and passable with care while pavements looked clear. This was good in theory but fields which had enjoyed the late afternoon sun yesterday were very wet. Standing water and glue like mud made running difficult. It was obvious after two miles that the extra vest I had put on was surplice to requirements but not a lot I could do except suffer. Running the final three miles, predominately uphill, was a struggle. The time was slow for a five mile run but that was due to the underfoot conditions. Tomorrow I will choose a different route, if it freezes hard overnight we will try off road again.  If the weather is milder sadly it will be on the road.

Sunday run cancelled.

The overnight snowfall is not very deep. Enough to put a fresh covering on roads and pavements it will be too slippery for running. Wind that is blowing from the east gives quite a low chill factor. Cars with rear wheel drive are moving cautiously while four wheel drive vehicles are demonstrating  their qualities. Fewer people than usual are walking dogs, those that are being well protected from the cold. Snow on the road reduces the noise made by the traffic and leaves an eerie silence. The sporting program is all but wiped out and presenters struggle to fill in time. One such filler was an interview with the racehorse trainer Nicky Henderson on channel 4 which was both honest and informative. Re-runs of old footage is just lazy journalism and exposes less talented presenters. Presenters that are unable to improvise and only read from an auto cue. The World Cup football qualifying matches that are being played this week means that no Premier or Championship matches are being played. This means that Sky has reached down into the lower divisions for matches to screen. Skill levels are lacking but the endeavour is high and results are less predictable.
I have just seen one runner go by. She was moving as if unsure of her footing. This cannot be enjoyable or achieve much from a fitness point of view. The risk of injury looks to outweigh any benefits gained.

Revised target hit.

Friday saw us reach our revised target. We did not approach the task with much enthusiasm but knew it had to be done. Even the pavements had quite a lot of surface water which made things a little bit unpleasant. Snow arrived on Friday night as forecast and has continued on and off throughout Saturday. This could put our Sunday run in serious doubt. If we are unable to run tomorrow that would be two Sundays lost to snow. I suppose we should expect that in late March in England.

Poetry in motion.

I just knew it would happen. Miss the Sunday run and the whole weeks schedule goes out the window. It appeared straight forward enough; four runs of six and a half miles would more than cover the twenty five mile target. Not running on Monday was a mistake; this left us to completing the miles in four consecutive days. Tuesdays five mile run added to the pressure which was compounded when we did the same on Wednesday. Fifteen miles in the remaining two days is just too many (we don’t run Saturdays). Revise the target down to twenty and we have something that is achievable. We set out today feeling more optimistic and enthusiastic. The first mile was a bit slow but there was a hill in it so that was acceptable. After half a mile of downhill we turned left up a track that goes on for a mile. We put our backs into it and climbed at a steady even pace. Most of the excess water had drained away from the track and the wind had dried the mud so it didn’t stick to our shoes quite so much. At the top we crossed over a main road and ran down the track on the other side of it for a mile. This was easier going as the surface is not so broken up. At the far end of the lane we turned left and ran alongside a main road home. This was a run of just over five miles which means another five tomorrow will reach the revised target. Revising a target to something that is more achievable makes better sense than struggling to hit one which is just beyond my capabilities.

This is a poem from the book I wrote. If you have competed in races you will understand the feeling. Please leave a comment and let me know.

The Race Runner

Raindrops fall on a balding pate,

Merged with sweat flow at a rate,

Across his brow and down his vest,

He runs and runs no pause for rest.

Fire in his lungs cannot be quenched,

As from his chest they’re almost wrenched,

In out in out they heave and sigh,

Praying the finishing line is nigh.

Thighs scream out enough enough,

His calves rebel, the going’s tough,

Blisters form on cramped up toes,

The pain it comes but rarely goes.

Over the line he’s tired and weak,

His head is pounding he cannot speak,

A week’s recovery is all he needs,

Then off again at breakneck speed.

Spring postponed until April

Sunday came “we will run come hell or high water” but looking out of the window we were not enthusiastic. While we stood and deliberated it started to snow. It was small flakes at first but quickly escalated into something a little more substantial. Visibility reduced to about fifty yards would have made it dangerous to run on the road. Grass was soon covered which would have concealed lumps and bumps that could cause injuries to ankles etc. Pavements also had a light covering that made them slippery. The only sensible decision was to stay at home. By lunch time conditions had improved but with football looming on Sky TV it was too late.

Monday was completely different. You would think you were on a different continent, sun shone and it was almost warm. Running was put to one side in favour of gardening, well moving logs anyway. It was backbreaking and took most of the day. Today still not fired with enthusiasm we got out and did it. Five miles around the roads because heavy overnight rain has again flooded some of the fields and those not flooded are very sticky.

Hard disc, hard luck.

It was just as well we ran on Thursday as the computer problem proved to be more serious than at first thought. All attempts to solve the problem failed. We were able to remove the Hard Drive and save the contents to another computer which means I have been able to save all of my writing. We then ran the recovery disc that took it back to factory settings. This wiped the Hard Drive of all the documents and Software that was on it. We reloaded Internet Explorer but despite repeated efforts it comes up with error messages. The computer is a few years old and is running XP which may be the root of the problem. It is very time consuming and frustrating. Not sure if it can be fixed or whether it will mean buying a new one which we can ill afford.
Come hell or high water we will go for a run tomorrow just to get away from the computer.

Day ends in disaster.

The run yesterday was one of our better efforts. It may have been the milder weather or just the desire to get it done. A circular course of just over four miles, it went very well. Knees were not in rebellious mood, breathing fairly even and target of twenty five miles achieved. A good start to the day. Then it all went wrong. Connected the Garmin to the computer to upload the run details to Garmin Connect to view the run analysis and the computer would not start, not even in Safe Mode. Tried all the solutions we know without success. The other bad news was that the book I am writing is on this computer as well as the book I have already written and some poems, not to mention the pictures. I have no back ups for any of this work so today could be very long trying to sort it out. The moral of the story appears to be, "Back up, back up and back up again."

For better or for worse we're going!

We ran five miles yesterday. This only leaves just over four on Friday to achieve twenty five for the week. We set off on the road through a housing estate. Buildings give some protection from the wind and the smooth surface of the road helps to loosen stiff joints and muscles. A mile and a half into the run we turned left down the aptly named Canal Lane. From the lane we could see the M40 motorway in the distance. Cars and lorries en route from London to Birmingham and vice versa. At the bottom of a steep field we joined the tow path beside the Oxford Canal. A flat but slightly muddy one mile later we were in town. A steep hill reduced me to walking before the top but a fairly brisk run home from there made up for it. A white overnight frost and bright sunshine this morning means we are going to run today as the weather forecast for tomorrow is heavy rain. I just hope the joints will stand it.
Went out yesterday and bought a new lawn mower, the old one which had given good service died. The grass is growing, a sure sign that spring is on the way.
When we get back from our run I will sit and write more of my book. I have gathered my thoughts and can see where the next part of the story is going. At the moment I am reading "The secret life of Bletchley Park", it is a bit hard going but very informative and I will see it through. Has anyone else read it? If so I would be pleased if you would let me know what you thought of it.

Winter is not over yet.

Too cold and windy to run Monday, spent the day writing my book. Making progress but it will be a long and winding road. Weather still cold today with fine snow in the air but we just had to wrap up warm and get on with it. Once on the move it was OK, we did a mixed course with some off road. Fields that are flooded had ice on them so were passable without getting our feet wet. Nearly six miles at a fairly brisk pace has set us up for an easy run in to the end of the week. Probably run five tomorrow and leave a short four miler for Friday.

No snow, got to go.

I had hoped that the snow which had been forecast would be lying two inches deep when I looked out this morning. This would have given us a reasonable excuse not to run. The last of the autumn leaves were bowling down the road at quite a pace, driven by a very crisp easterly wind. Enthusiasm was not great but I had stated that ten miles was the target for the day so we had to get on with it. Choosing a route that would keep the wind at our backs and with ample opportunities to shorten the route if necessary, we set off. The wind and a desire to keep warm made us set off at quite a pace. Downhill for a mile and a half followed by a mile and a half uphill warmed every bone in our bodies.
A left turn took us along a fairly level three mile stretch towards the next village. A few ups and downs but nothing to severe. The countryside was fairly open and in the distance I could see the village church ahead of us. It took quite a while before it appeared to get any nearer. We passed it with six miles on the Garmin. The route was a large triangle, this meant that passing the church we turned left for the run home. It was beside the main road with the wind coming into our face at two o'clock. The snow that had been forecast overnight was now beginning to fall. It was not big flakes just small icy ones. This last four mile leg of the run was slightly uphill and quite demanding. I had chosen a route that was all on the road. We had not run ten miles since October so I wanted to make it as easy as possible, if that distance is ever easy. The fact that it was all on the road meant it was reasonably quick considering which was satisfying. All in all a good start to the week.

Hit the right note, on target again.

Wednesdays band practice was the first we have attended for a month. Luckily there was enough plays who knew the music to carry me through. We have about forty members of all ages and all abilities. We play a variety of styles from classical to Rock around the Clock. I play the clarinet and my wife the alto sax.
Yesterday it was too wet to venture into the garden so I wrote another chapter of my book. It was tough going and involved quite a lot of research on the Internet.
Back to running this morning, only needed just over four to hit the weekly target. I find it is harder to motivate myself to go out for four miles than five or six but we did it. A circular route mostly on the road it was quite quick. I did consider doing a speed session instead but did not think my knees would be up to it. I still think we should be running ten miles on Sundays and will be looking for that distance this week. The weather forecast is snow at the weekend so we will have to see what conditions are like.

Run to be Social

Rain was forecast for the afternoon so it was decided that a morning run would be more comfortable. It was band practise in the evening and I find it hard to blow my clarinet after a hard run so that also was a factor. The run was five and a half miles long and circled the next village. The first half was mostly on road and slightly downhill, the second half was more off road and slightly uphill. We met a couple of other runners while we were out but they didn’t speak, obviously members of the Antisocial Running Club. The distance we covered makes a total of twenty one miles for the week so far; a four mile run tomorrow will hit our target. There is a local running club near to where we live but we don’t see them out running in groups. When we lived in North Devon we belonged to a club. Six days a week you would find groups running from the clubhouse. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays would be well attended and in the heyday of running Sunday morning ten or fifteen would turn out for a long run. The first four or five miles of which, some would be recounting their exploits of the night before in the bar. By the time we got to ten miles running was taken a bit more seriously. How times have changed. The curtain raiser for the season used to be the Taunton Half Marathon at the beginning of April. It was also a last chance for those runners doing the London Marathon to stretch their legs. It is the thirtieth anniversary of Taunton this year. http://www.tauntonmarathon.co.uk/ .Bideford Half Marathon which was run last week has been held for over ten years and also provides an alternative. http://www.bidefordaac.co.uk/index.htm

The rain forecast for yesterday has arrived today so all garden activities is postponed. I have chopped logs for the fire and it is time to get back to writing my book.

What a Carrion

Yesterday had to be one of the most satisfying runs of the year so far. After increasing our mileage slightly on Sunday to eight and three quarters we were able to follow that up with six and a half. Fifteen and a quarter by Monday takes away the pressure for the week. It wasn’t a fast run but it is what I call lumpy. Mostly off road as usual, one of our favourite summer routes, it rises and falls quite sharply over fields and through a wood that were drier than I expected. At one point I saw two buzzards circling overhead. I reasoned that as they only eat carrion if I kept moving albeit slowly at times I would be OK.

Recently we had two large beech trees pruned in our garden. The logs, which were left in a pile, should last through next winter if we are lucky. The log pile was sited in the wrong place so I spent yesterday afternoon moving them to a new location. I was not able to move all of them as there was just too many and my back was killing me. Anyone that tells you a log fire is all fun is lying.

Brilliant sunshine today so no running, just catching up in the garden. I left the log pile well alone and put a good portion of the compost heap on the raised beds ready for planting. It will be lettuce and other salad crops. While I was working a couple of frogs hopped by enroute to our neighbours pond, spring must be in the air. I have more compost to dig into the main vegetable plot and one of the first things to go in will be broad beans but not quite yet. I really like broad beans how about you?

Sunday in the country

Overnight frost meant two things; one it would be cold and an extra vest would be needed and secondly it would be firm under foot. Firm enough to get off road.  The first half mile along the road was a nice gentle warm up before taking to the country. With the exception of a short half mile section it was off road for the next six and a half miles. The route was one that we have covered a number of times. In the summer it is well used by hikers and dog walkers but at this time of year there was only a few hardy souls. The first part is across meadows that have cattle in them. These have become poached and uneven. Frozen ruts had crossed with care. A short path along by the old water mill is narrow. It is shared by horse riders, mountain bikers, walkers and runners alike and because it is by the old water mill it floods regularly and never drys out. It was very muddy and slippery requiring extra care. Once past that point a steep uphill run for the next half mile was followed by a breather on the flat. We then plunged down across another three fields before swinging left to run alongside a disused railway line. The old railway embankment prevented the water draining away. It also sheltered it from the frost making the ground underfoot very, very sticky. Mud clogged the tread on our shoes making them extra heavy. On the outskirts of a village noted for its Morris Dancers we turned left again. Over a wooden bridge that straddles a river we headed across arable fields. Exposed, the wind had dried them out and although it was uphill the ground underfoot was good. Past a small windmill, which I suspect had been used to pump water to the farm once, we ran on and up the Main Street of another village. Off road for the next mile brought us close to home. Checking the Garmin showed we were still short of the distance that I wanted for the day so we had to run a loop around the roads to make up. Home and showered it all seems ok now. Eight and three quarter miles done, a good start to the week.

Car Brakes Budget.

Yesterday was a muddled day. The car went to the garage for some attention to its braking system and was expected home again for tea. A morning stocking up at the supermarket was followed by an afternoon awaiting a call to collect the car. The call eventually came to say the car was having a stop-over and would not be coming home until lunch time today. We got up and despite having porridge for breakfast we went for a run. It was quite hard work as the off road bits were quite gluey underfoot. Some parts of the fields are still under water. The farmers have managed to plough some of the land but it looks very wet and will be a while before they are planting seed. We finished the run on the road, up hill for the last half mile. It always seems to be up hill coming home. The run was just over five miles which exceeded our twenty five mile target for the week. The car came home just after lunch. A gleaming new brake calliper and pads but none the worse for its night on the tiles. If anyone tells you brake callipers are cheap they are lying.

Sometimes words just fail me.

Yesterday we set off on our run and I can honestly say it was with little enthusiasm. Heading in a westerly direction to avoid the icy blast of the east wind on our faces we maintained a steady pace for the first mile which sloped gently downhill. A right turn took us along a slightly undulating country road to a small village that saw significant action during the English Civil War. We ran past the royalist castle up a steep hill and across a field, a climb of one hundred and fifty feet. The view from the top on a clear day is pretty good. It was too cold to hang about admiring it so we descended the fields bypassing as many muddy bits as we could and popped out at the top on the next village. Down through the main street which is lined on either side with Cotswold Stone cottages we gathered pace only to be halted at the main road by traffic. Across the main road we ran up the former cart track which, after the winter rains is now nearly dry. A short run along the road home measured a total of six and a half miles, only another five on Friday to hit target.

The afternoon was spent wrestling with my book. I knew where I wanted to arrive at but it was difficult to see the route. Completing nearly a thousand words, not to mention the thousand that I discarded, I am reasonably happy that progress was made. Today was set aside for more writing but the car had to go to the garage and that has not gone to plan. I have to pick it up tomorrow but not sure what time it will be ready so that looks like being another muddling day.

Everyone says you should be disciplined, allocate times and days for writing, but then life seems to interfere.

I'm writing a book, well someone had to.

Completed a six mile run this morning which makes a total of thirteen and a half for the week so far. It was an effort to get started and to be honest a bit of a struggle all the way round. Started off a bit fast for the first two and a half miles, some of which was off road and predominately down hill, then just ran out of steam as we hit a couple of sharp little hills in quick succession. The two miles home was up a slight gradient which sapped the last of my energy. While we were running it was quite quick but I paid the penalty by having to walk in places. We still need eleven and a half miles to reach the target for the week. When we don’t manage ten on Sunday or thereabouts it makes twenty five a bit more difficult as I am unable to get an easy day of four to four and a half miles. Sunday should be the backbone of any distance running as this is when stamina and endurance is built up.

Has anyone read the book I wrote “Reflections Tall Stories and Short Poems” It is available on Kindle and I would be interested to read your comments? It is my first attempt at writing and feedback would be useful. I have written a short book of children’s poems which I will be publishing soon; also I am in the process of writing another book.

Running, writing books and a whole host of gardening is just around the corner. Lucky me.

It would have been easy to stay in bed.

It was the sort of morning that you just new it was cold without going outside. People walking by in hats, overcoats, scarves and gloves. Birds sitting in the trees with feathers puffed out to retain body heat. Branches swaying in the wind indicating a north easterly is blowing. It was dry with just a hint of snow. We tried to find a reason not to go running but were unable to find one. I put on an extra vest and we set off. Anything between six and ten miles would be ok. The first two and a half miles were along side of the main road. Quite a lot of cars moving taking people out  for the day. Not many walkers or other runners it must be too cold for them. We turned off the road and took to the fields which were frozen. We passed a Sparrow Hawk on a hedgerow looking for his Sunday lunch. It was quite a contrast after the weeks of struggling through glue like mud. We ran about two and a half miles before we hit Tarmac again then a gentle incline all the way home. Seven and a half miles recorded which was just about the right dose of medicine under the circumstances. I had a quick brush with the Scales of Injustice when I got home. Disappointing.

Porridged again but unbowed.

Five and a half mile run yesterday followed by another five this morning. Porridge for breakfast again. This kept out the bitter north easterly wind but took a lot of carrying up the hills. Twenty miles for the week will have to be enough as I like Saturday off. Snow is forecast so I have chopped enough wood for three days just in case. Quick update it is snowing slightly as I write. Looks like a weekend watching sport on TV again.

An "I can do that" moment

Have you ever had one of those “I can do that” moments? I have had a few in my lifetime; one was in 1988 when watching the London marathon on TV. I have a picture of myself finishing the London marathon in 1989. Between those two events there was an awful lot of blood sweat and tears not to mention black toenails pulled muscles and many more aches and pains. I went back to London in 1992 and took thirty minutes off my first time. Several marathons, half marathons ten milers ten kilometre races and a host of off road races later I still enjoy the fun of running but the competitive edge has long gone. I find walking is too slow and takes too much time out of the day. A ten mile run on Sunday morning and three runs in the week to make up a target of around twenty five miles for the week are fine. A far cry from the six days and forty plus mile weeks we used to do. That’s called older, wiser and slower not to mention heavier. Unfortunately other issues seem to mean that this is not always possible such as gardening and writing.

I came I sawed I Conquered

A hard frost greeted us this morning although the bright sunshine soon began to thaw the ice. Venturing off road onto the tracks the ruts were frozen and rutted. Care had to be taken not to turn an ankle. The fields were still very wet in places with standing water in the lower places. Because we had not run for a week four and a half miles was plenty.

The rest of the day was given over to pruning another of our neighbours trees. It was an ash that had been left to its own devices for too long. Little shape and bits sticking out all over the place it needed some tough love. Several hours of sawing, pruning and clearing out the dead bits in the middle and it now looks a bit like a tree again. It will take a while to recover from the hair cut I gave it but it will, and look all the better for it. My neighbour helped with some of the larger limbs that needed to come down and with the tidying up. The tidying up is the worst part. Anyway the jobs done and everyone is happy. Alls well that ends well.

Birthdays and Poems

Running was lost last week due to another birthday. This time it was our grand daughters turn. The week was spent composing and illustrating a series of poems for her and putting them into a book format. I will probably tidy it up and publish it on Kindle as I did with my other book Reflections Tall Stories and Short Poems. Watch this space. We travelled to Essex to see her over the weekend and visited Southend while we were there. There were lots of people of all standards running along the promenade. It looked a bit boring; flat, windy and dodging pedestrians. Coming home on the M40 late Sunday afternoon we saw two Muntjac Deer grazing on the grass verge. They took little notice of the large volume of cars speeding by. Running must start again tomorrow although I also pencilled in for more pruning if the weather is OK.

Back to North Devon

Friday we left the arable landscape of Oxfordshire behind and headed down the M5. Turning right at Tiverton we were soon among the familiar green patchwork of fields dotted with sheep. It was Stuarts birthday party, I will not reveal his age but will only say that Health and Safety restrictions prevented all the candles being put on the cake. We shared a table with Jason, who was a very talented runner before turning to football, and his girlfriend, Craig who has a PB of thirty two minutes for a 10K but prefers cycling now and Callie. Callie’s most recent claim to fame is that she overtook Stuart in a cycling race.

Saturday morning Stuart was left in charge of Maddie, my wife and cooking the breakfast while Sam insisted on taking me out for a run. We set off on the Old Barnstaple road then turned left up to Westleigh. Sam was very gracious and walked up the hill with me. One of Sam’s claims to fame is that she once beat Paula Radcliffe in a race. Running out of Westleigh to the Tarka Trail gives views over Appledore and the Torridge estuary. The run back to Bideford is flat but there was a sting in the tail. The run, which was almost six miles, pushed the weekly total up to nearly twenty seven miles.

Sunday we were back on home ground. It was mild, raining slightly and trying to snow. We stayed on the road because the fields are still like a quagmire. It was a seven mile round trip with a few lumps and bumps in it. We only saw two other runners out, one a woman, is training for the London Marathon. That’s the trouble with marathon training you cannot afford to get too far behind your schedule. I think that’s what Stuart said.

Target achieved

Reached the target today with a bit to spare. I used to say it wasn't worth getting your clothes dirty for less than five miles. As the years have passed and ambition has diminished I have revised it to four miles so that is what we did. As the run was shorter we did it at a slightly higher tempo. I ventured onto the scales of injustice yesterday and was disappointed to find they did not point to the same position as they did before Christmas. Due to the festive fare and the lack of running because of the bad weather I guess.

Closer to the target

Commitments at the end of the week means that we have to achieve our mileage target before Friday. I decided we would try one of our usual off road routes and see what conditions were like in the open fields. A slight detour avoided a very muddy track replacing it with a slightly less muddy track. The fields in the main were not too bad, the exception being one low lying area that appeared to have no way around. No time to faff about we went straight through the middle and dry the trainers out later. Gortex is good but has its limitations in water ankle deep. Four and a half miles were covered which leaves a very comfortable three and a half today although we will probably exceed that. I keep using the WE in my blog as all my runs are with my wife. She is good on the road and I am better off road. This is why we spend as much time as possible off road. We went to band practice last night. I play clarinet while she plays alto sax. I find band practice on the same day as a difficult run is hard. My breathing goes to pot trying to blow some of the longer passages of music.

Bright and Breezy

The forecast was for snow in the afternoon so it was common sense to get the run done early. It was cold with bright sunshine when we set off. The temperature was around freezing and the pavements that were in shadow had ice on them. A mile down the road we hit the first hill. It went on for about a mile, at the top we turned into a farm road which was metaled but slippery . From the road which runs along the top of a ridge you can see for about ten miles. The view over the countryside is great but the wind which was blowing from the north west cut right through us. Soon we were on the fields which, although still wet were a pleasure to have under our feet. Crossing the main road we climbed the bridle way for a mile before finishing the last bit on the road. Five and a half miles making twelve for the week so far. Target again is twenty.

Non edible prune

Today was a non running day.The weather was good but a neighbour has an apple tree that had been neglected for several years so I left the trainers in the box and took out the shears. Cutting out the dead bits and the long straggly bits I was then able to let some light into the heart of the tree and give it some shape. The summer will show whether or not it has been a success but it does look better. They have a willow tree that is need of attention but that will be a job for another day.

Off the road Yippee!

I think every man and his dog must have been out running today. All shapes and sizes, speeds both fast and slow. The temperature was just above freezing but it was dry. A mile down hill followed by a mile up hill soon got the circulation going. After another mile on a side road we went off road. It was still slippy, and in low lying places the mud made running difficult but enjoyable. The last two miles were on the road and uphill which meant the scheduled seven miles was cut to six and a half. Target again this week will be twenty plus miles. Garmin said I used nearly seven hundred calories today so that at least is good news.

Porridged Again

Ran five and a half miles this morning which achieved the target of twenty miles for the week (Saturday is always a rest day ready for a longer run on Sunday). It was my wife's turn to get breakfast today and she is a porridge person. I am toast and marmalade which indicates my culinary skills. My breathing was ragged and I threw in a couple of hills which accounts for the slower than usual speed. Heart rate was a little high but not too bad. I always run with a Garmin so that I can monitor heart rate, speed and distance etc. I think we should award Scotland Independence on condition that imports of Scots porridge oats are banned.

Still haven't got around to a proper profile yet. I am still experimenting with the layout. I thought it would be a good idea to add AdSense to the blog site but it's causing so much trouble to set up I wonder if it is really worth. If you are having a problem the help menu seems to send you around in circles.

Run in the Sun

January morning and the Sun is shinning. Not on the schedule for a run today but it seemed too good to miss. Wednesday is a porridge for breakfast kind of day but undetered we went out. Running with a stomach full of porridge is probably like running when heavily pregnant, the whole lot doesn't seem to move in time with the rest of your body. Of course I have no first hand knowledge of this but can only imagine. We run in Nike gortex trainers at the moment and are pleased with the results. They do keep the feet dry unless you step in water that goes over the top. Tomorrow will definitely be a day off. May add to my profile.

No gain without pain

Hamstrings and calf muscles in full rebellious mood we set off for another run yesterday. If I had possessed a bow I could have played a violin concerto on the hamstrings they were that tight. Trying hard not to over stride and risk injury it was a case of get around the course rather than break any records. The fields are still saturated and slipping and sliding in them could have resulted in injury. A five mile route on the roads was the best that could be managed.

Up and Running

Looked out this morning, snow that had covered the ground for the last two weeks had finally disappeared. The sun was shining and although a cold wind was blowing it was time to pull the trainers on and get back to running. After half a mile we turned offroad down a very wet and slightly muddy bridleway. One mile later we emerged back on the road. The course undulated for the next three and a half miles. Due to the two week break some walking occured on a couple on the hills. Anyway it was a starting point and if the legs are ok tomorrow maybe we will be out again. We used to run quite a lot in the past but have slipped a bit over recent years. I might create a seperate page on that at some point and give a bit more background.

Muddy Waters

Day two and the "Start a Blog" experiment goes on. The water is still cloudy but on occasions I think I can see the bottom. Just when I think it is safe to take the plunge I spot another obstacle. Templates are a source of frustration, which one, what colour and how to resize. Keep it simple was always a good maxim so that is what I have opted for. The theory is that I can maybe alter it later when I get more familiar with how the system works. Two things to note so far are, remember your password and write things down on paper as a backup.

Callie's; Birthday

Today is Callie's Birthday I must send her a text. Who is Callie? Well perhaps another day.
Setting up and publishing a Blog is like the weather outside. The ground is covered with snow which looks very nice but the icy patches below the surface means it is all too easy to slip back a pace or two just when you think things are going along so well. Still very much on a learning curve.

Another day another headache

The day started the same as most have done in the past week. Snow on the ground and ice on the pavements. It seemed the ideal day to sit at the computer and get to grips with the gentle art of Blogging. The sign up was easy and it said it would only take five minutes and I would be able to post my first thoughts. That took place several hours ago. The sign up bit was the first step, the second and by far the more difficult part was finding information and simple instruction on how to compose and upload a posting. Several aborted attempts later I am hoping that I have finally been successful. Time will tell.