Ted's Running Journal/Logbook

This is a test.

2011-04-05T12:53:00.001-04:00

This is just a test.

It’s time to say Goodbye…

2009-12-04T13:24:00.001-05:00

Say isn’t so ! However, it is with a heavy heart that I have made my final decision. It wasn’t easy but knowingly that I have made the right decision. It is time for me to retire with the blogging. I have to say that the last three years of blogging was quite a challenge for me. I have to move on with so many new and exciting things in my life. This is the final #147 Post. Looking back to when I started with my running back in the summer of 2005, I have started to record my mile on January 1, 2006.

My highlight…

Completed 6 marathons
1 Marathon – DNF
8 Half Marathons
close to reaching 6,000 miles and predicting this will happen next month.

My CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT of all was doing the fundraising. I am still speechless to this very day of YOU who have contributed to the fundraising. You have made this happen. Thank you for raising a total of ….

The people at the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania are so grateful to all of you who have contributed to my fundraising. I couldn’t have done it without you guys! Thanks so much!

With my closing statement: Listen up, keep doing whatever you have been doing all along. Keep running. Keep cycling. Keep swimming. Stay in shape. You have my words: I am going to keep running until I croak. I will still be signing up for different marathons. I am going to keep running in dedication of my brother and for the million of people with Epilepsy.

So long…. Go on, KEEP RUNNING !

Do you believe in Ghost?

2009-11-27T14:45:00.001-05:00

According to dictionary.com …

A ghost has been defined as the soul of a dead person, a disembodied spirit imagined, usually as a vague, shadowy or evanescent form, as wandering among or haunting living persons.

Hmmm… I have to admit. I went out and brought a new running shoes today.

Brooks Ghost 2….

When I put on the shoes, I’ve felt some cold air surrounding my body. Hmmm.. some kind of cold transformation in my body. I think it was Roger Bannister’s spirit. After trying five or six different shoes, I think this is the one where I will go out like Roger Bannister.

Let’s see what this killer shoes will do for me !

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T07:43:00.001-05:00

To all runners and non-runners out there, I wanted to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving.

Photographic Sunday Run!

2009-10-25T17:51:00.011-04:00

Simply put.... Fall is my favorite time of the year. Simply breathtaking. Serenity. Peaceful. Relaxing. I put on my running shoes this morning. I ran 15 miles. I didn't even want to think about time. All I wanted to see the beauty the world has to offer. At the end of the run, I have taken 75 pictures. It was a tough choice to make. I have picked out the top 10 pictures that I took along the way. Enjoy the pictures. Sit back and drink up your Pumpkin Latte.

Starting Point !

Near Sickles Park

Long and winding road...

Nice to have the whole road to myself at some point.

Sea Bright BeachSecond Man on Moon. Opps !! You got that right.. Settled in 1667 ! My sweet hometown!Near Little Silver CreekLittle Silver Nature Trail

Wrapping up my run for the day!

(click to enlarge)
15 miles run covering Little Silver, Fair Haven, Rumson, Sea Bright, Monmouth Beach and Oceanport.

Nor'easter 1 SeeTedRun 0

2009-10-21T18:00:00.006-04:00

Before I go any further, I wanted to tell you guys how much I appreciated your terrific help with the contribution to the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania. The total is $1,320.00 !!! Wooooooo!!! You have no idea how thrilled I was to see this !!! I'm loving it !!! THANK YOU SO MUCH !!!

Ok, it's time for me to spill the beans ! It is not exactly the kind of news I want to deliver. All I can tell you that it was a heart-wrenching experience for me. I had to swallow a bitter pill. This was my first DNF. I would never dream in a million year to see a DNF in my record book. I had to bail out. With all due respect, I was ready to go. I was mentally, physically and emotionally ready for the game.

Arrived safe and sound in Newport last Friday.
I had a very romantic dinner with my wife at 22 Bowens Wine Bar & Grille. It was sensational. It was a welcome "parental" break for me and my wife. If you ever go to Newport, I would highly recommend you to go. I had filet mignon and a couple glass of red wine. J. Lohrs Cabernet Sauvignon ! Just SENSATIONAL !
Stayed at Hyatt Hotel on Goat Island with a remarkable view of the Narragansett Bay and the Newport Bridge.
Rested fully on Saturday with a very short 3 miles run. The weather was phenomenal on Saturday. Sunny, partly cloudy, 50 degrees ! Glued to Weather Channel about the upcoming Nor'easter storm.
My wife and I had a terrific dinner at Pasta Beach. Kathy and I had gnocchi and pizza. Outstanding ! A perfect pre-race meal !
Woke up at 3 a.m. with lots of nervousness and excitement.
Open the curtain and it looks like a washing machine.
My first word of the day... %^&*^%$#@(*&^ !!!
Torrential downpour, high wind and chilly at the starting line.
Wore short, one technical t-shirt, rain jacket & cap
Approximately 3,500 to 4,000 runners. It seemed smaller to me.
At the start of the race, it was tight packed especially on Thames Street.
Less wind while running in the neighborhood but more wind by the coastline.
Started out very slowly in the beginning as part of my strategy.
Wind was very STRONG (20-40 mph) while running through Ocean Drive State Park, Goose Neck Cove and Sheep Point Cove. (see map below)
Rain came down heavy at times. Rain came sideway at some point. Lots of headwind, sideway, and back.
Started to shiver at the start of 10 miles. Trying to run harder to stay warm but I was 1,000% soaked. I hate chilly rain. Don't get me wrong, I love running if the temperature is like in the 60's or the 70's. BUT NOT IN THE 40'S WITH WIND CHILL FACTORS IN THE 30'S.
My grade for running outfit in the rain: F-
It was kind of weird. My nose was running like a faucet. I wasn't sure if it was the pouring rain that makes my nose act like a overflowed gutter or the rain has filled up my nasal cavity. Just weird sensation of having a miniature Niagara Fall under my nose.
Made a critical decision on whether to continue another 2 hours in downpouring chilly rain or bail out. For my own health, I bailed out!
The minute after I bailed out, tears came streaming down. I have put so much training into this !
I had a tearful reunion with my wife and felt that I have made the right decision to bail out.
There will always be another marathon.

To be honest with you guys, I was crushed. I have put a lot of effort into my training for the past several months for this big event. I have worked my ass off !!! Period. I was truly looking forward to this. My hat off to those runners who have braved those "miserable" elements and got the job done. I have tremendous respect for those who have completed the half and full marathon.

Before I go, I was reading a little bit of Providence Sunday Journal newspaper before the race. I was kind of impressed. I have made a beeline to the weather section of the newspaper. I was kind of surprised to see a cool feature in the weather section. It has running index and I think it should be in every newspaper around the country. It is pretty neat. It combines the current temperature, air quality, UV index, wind speed, humdity and past weather condition to provide a scale showing the overall quality for running outside. Pretty cool !!! Look below...

To me: “Success isn't how far you got, but the distance you traveled from where you started.”

Before I go......

2009-10-15T19:52:00.010-04:00

Before I leave for Rhode Island, I wanted to tell you guys how much I appreciated your TERRIFIC generosity. It is so unbelievable. I am such in AWE with the fundraising. With two days left to go till Amica Newport Marathon, you have pitched in an unbelievable $1,300 dollars for the Epilepsy Foundation. To be honest with all of you, I didn't think it was going to get this far. You have made it happen and I THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. I am quite emotional about it. Very emotional ! Thanks to all the names below that have contributed to the Epilepsy Foundation.

(click to enlarge)

As a way of expressing my heartfelt thanks to all of you, you are going to be in for a surprise.

I have asked Erin to do the modeling with the t-shirt that I will wear this Sunday.

The name of those who have contributed to the EF.

(close up)

As of Thursday evening, the weather forecast for Newport, RI for this coming Sunday.....

Oy oy oy !!!! Looks like its going to be a soakin' Marathon !!! I am not too thrilled but I will suck it up. It is with the fact that you have done so much to my fundraising, I am going to get the job done by getting to the finish line.

BRING IT ON !!!!

Fundraising Update / Little Silver 5K Report

2009-10-12T09:00:00.014-04:00

With less than a week to go into my seventh marathon, the Amica Newport Marathon, in Newport, Rhode Island, I wanted to extend my gratitude to those who have contributed to the Epilepsy Foundation. The total so far is $735.00 which is 74% achieved with 26% to reach the goal of $1,000.00. The only YOU have made the differences for the people with Epilepsy. Just to come to think of this, you are definitely helping to improve the lives of people with Epilepsy. I cannot tell you how much I am so grateful for your terrific contribution. I do get emotional and wanted to say THANK YOU. Please do spread the love if you know anyone who wants to make the contribution. Thank you so much ! Be sure to check the fundraising website by clicking here.

(click above to enlarge)

Now here's comes the fun part.... My two girls and I had a wonderful time yesterday with the participation of Little Silver 5K race. My oldest, Erin, ran the 220 yards race and Sarah ran the 100 yards. Hat off those the two girls for running on a big day!

The Start of Little Silver 5K Race

Sarah (center) in pre-race mode.

Sarah taking off for the 100 yard dash.Proud Mom and Sarah.

Erin taking off the 220 yards run. (Third from left in white shirt)

Erin runs like the wind!

Erin and her friend, Brady.
Dad completed the 5K with a new PR: 21:04 (6:47 pace)

My splits was: (1) 6:51 (2) 6:44 (3) 6:50 and the last .10 in :39. This was my first 5K in New Jersey since I've moved from Colorado. My last 5K was in July 23, 2005 (four years ago) with a time of 29:48 (9:36 pace). My very first 5K was in Lakewood, Colorado back in July 2000 was 35:07 (11:09 pace). That was 9 years ago folks ! I cannot imagine going from a time of 35 minutes to 21 minutes in 9 years period.

6 more days till Newport, Rhode Island...... As my sistre, Michelle of Ms. Running Down a Dream, said to me "Rhode Island IS YOURS" !!! She emailed me a cool video about Last Minute Tip on Marathon. Check this out...

Last Minute Marathon Tips: shot with Nikon D90 from Mike Kobal on Vimeo.

Have a GREAT week to all of you!

Last Day of Summer !

2009-09-21T10:53:00.006-04:00

Bye bye Summer !! Hello Fall !! I have realized that I haven't blog for a few weeks. I have reminded myself to give my fellow RBF a good update. Ready for the recap for the month of September in bullet-style points??? Drum roll please.....

Less than 4 weeks till Amica Newport Marathon. My seventh marathon. October 18, 2009. Goal: 4:15 or less (that would be awesome!)
Revised my fundraising goal from $2,500 to $1,000 with four weeks to go. I will be emailing to my families and friends this week. I am truly happy that I have raised $155.00 so far. It helps! Thanks to those who have contributed.
I just turned 45 years old on Sept. 12th. You know what that means? I have moved up to a new age group. I should rock !
MANY THANKS to Michelle of Running Down a Dream for presenting me a cool running technical t-shirt and a book "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougal.
My 3rd Blog-Anniversary tomorrow!
VFF KSO ROCKS !!!
Ran in 10 miles Rat's Race last Saturday (trail running). My garmin posted 10.26 miles in 1:38. Saw two runners ran in VFF.

I am still waiting for the pictures to show up on the race's website. I am hoping to see a picture of myself running across the creek which is a FIRST. I do hope the photographer took it. *crossing fingers*

Before I go, there is one thing I wanted to share this with you. Before I turned 45 years old, there was one goal that I have been working hard this summer. I don't want to believe that when you get older, your timing does get slower. I wanted to rebuke the "aging" theory. All I wanted was one friggin mile of under 7:00 pace. Just one friggin mile. Just one. Just one. All summer long. All I wanted was anything like 6:59 or lower before I turned 45. Then one beautiful glory morning of September 7th.....

One simple challenge. Winners must have two things: Definite goals and burnin desire to achieve them.

On a beautiful cool morning of September 7th, I was so determined just to get it under 7:00. Set my Garmin. I know it's unofficial. Weaving through traffic. Upward slope Downward slope. Railroad tracks. Potholes. Traffic lights. I don't care. Just get it under 7:00 ! Period.

Here I went...9/7/009....

Mile 1 - 07:48 Felt discouraged. Forget it. Wait. Wait. This is just a warmup.
Mile 2 - 07:21 The hell with it. I have done everything I could. Wait wait.. just push it. PUSH IT PUSH IT PUSH IT.
Mile 3 - ????? Come on baby... Come on baby. Push it. Push it . Push it.
Mile 4 - 8:01 I was on CLOUD 9. Turned off the engine. Slowed down. Enjoyed it. In my mind, I was pretending million of people cheering on me. I was waving like Queen Elizabeth on a horse drawn carriage.
Mile 5 - 8:11 Reminding myself how life is so precious and how we must take for granted !

Care to know what my split was at mile 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 6:56 !

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED !

Feels good to be a kid again!

2009-09-04T19:11:00.004-04:00

You got that darn right! It feels good to be a kid again. When was the last time you ran in barefoot? You probably have childhood memories of running in the backyard with the water sprinkler going on. Chasing dogs with no shoes on.

This is a brand new controversy going on in the running communities. It's all about barefoot running. Only you, the only you, will have to make a decision whether you want to run or not. You can try. You don't have to try. I had the option of trying and I think I am going to get the hang out of it.

As you know, I have purchased Vibram Five Fingers! It's still too early to say but I think it rocks.

It is still too early to say whether it will be a problem. I went out for my first run this morning. After reading so much about it, I have decided to run in VFF very slowly. I started it out only by running half a mile. I will soon be increasing the distance. It was truly incredible. It brings me back memories of running barefoot as a kid.

Keep this in mind, I noticed my stride has shorten while running in VFF. I have also noticed that I landed mid-foot instead of the on the heel. Most running shoes are designed for heel striking which is not too good. Bad habit of mine. Check the video of what it looks like when landing.

There are a lot of stuff you can read about VFF.

Check out the blog about Barefoot Ted
Check out the blog about Tim Ferris.
Check out the blog about Michael B.
Check out the blog on Birthday Shoes.

There is really no empirical studies on barefoot running. I do believe that running barefoot has a lot of benefits. Christopher McDougal wrote a book called "Born to Run" and I am sure you have hear of it. Click on his name and read the interview.

I am confident that this will be the next craze. It is still too early for me to tell about my experience. I will be able to share with you my experience as I will be logging in more miles with VFF. I am sure I will have some highs and some lows when it comes to running with VFF.

It is just a start..... I would encourage you to research it. There are a lot of bloggers out there writing about their experience.

Even Steve Runner of Phedippidations is becoming a born again (barefoot) runner....

Have a safe Labor Day weekend!

Fall preview!

2009-08-31T14:48:00.010-04:00

I think this is going to be an interesting post. I think Fall is in the air. This is definitely a sneak preview of fall weather. However, I am positive that we will probably a few more HOT days before Autumn arrives. Here's the lastest recap for the month of August.

This week's weather preview...
Attended Shoreturtle's Summer Pool Party on August 15th. I had a wonderful opportunity to meet Shoreturtle's wife, Redhead, and his mother in law. My daughter, Erin, had a wonderful times especially meeting with Progman2000's children.

Mr. Shoreturtle

Shoreturtle's pet - Shoreturtle, Jr.

Shoreturtle's Pool Party

I did my 20 miler last Friday. It was cool and rainy. It was GREAT. Keep in mind, I did this in 9:1 (9 minutes run, 1 min walk) ratio the entire time. I took about 5-6 minutes break halfway at Quick Check (like 7-11 store) in Middletown to use the restroom, grab a bottle of Gatorade and wrung my soaked t-shirt. Overall, it was a very good run.

Head over to Mix My Granola and get a discount using the code: MixIt10 for a 10% discount. This is the second time I've ordered this....

What's this ?????

Ugh oh !

The world we live in.....

2009-08-21T13:26:00.005-04:00

Just a thought.... You know what... I was driving on the highway the other day. I was thinking about different communities we have on EARTH. I mean.. there are million different types of communities. Religious community... Croquet community... Poker community... Skinny Dip community... You name it. I was thinking of which community I feel the most comfortable to be with. Of course, that is the R-U-N-N-I-N-G community. I was thinking. You know what's so odd about it. I have never met anyone so bad in the running community. I have met so many cool people in the running community. I am wondering if there are any crooks in the running community. I have not met a single crook. I have not met a runner who robbed a bank. Unless that runner knows how to outrun a police office when robbing a bank! I have to say that most percentage of the runners in the runner community are pretty cool people to hang around with.(minus the ones with a big ego and bragging rights!) I've never get tired of talking about running. I get the goose bumps whenever I talk about it with runners. I have tried to engage into conversation with the non-runners. They don't seemed to grasp the realm of this, huh? I have great admiration for people who got into trouble with the law. They used running as a way to clean up their act. They also run to improve the quality of life. To improve health, etc.... I have great admiration for people who quit drugs or alcohol in order to start running. They are good and decent people. Honesty is the word that I think best described about the runners in the running community. I have not met anyone who could lie to me about running. (except the ones who took the shortcuts when running a marathon.) They are truthful about their passion. They admit the mistakes they've made. We are not perfect and we cannot run like Ryan Hall or Kara Goucher. (I think I tend to run like Ryan Hall.) We are truthful in term of what we are dealing when it comes to running.

Therefore, I ask myself "What makes the running community so special?"

I have looked at so many running blogs. There is one simple answer to what I have seen. The word I think is... HUMAN. We strive to be the best we can and take it what we have. We share one goal and that is to run and to have fun. We can talk for eternity about this and never get tired of it. We are so open about running: We can cry. We can laugh. We can get frustrated. We can get pissed off. We can jump in joy. You name it. We talk about what we feel. How cool is that?

What would my life be like if there wasn't a running community on earth? I don't think I wanna touch it. Scratch that!

So I am not sure why I am bringing this up. I wasn't under the influence of alcohol or any illicit substances when typing up this post. I think it is a time for me to express my gratitude/appreciative of being involved with a running community. I think it is a blessing that I have connect YOU - that is you - runners, swimmers, triathletes in this world to make a better place - for all of us. We must take for granted that we have a running (and other sporting community ! ) in this world.

Without it, I think my life would be utterly bored !

** Don't forget. I have a wife and two beautiful daughters and an incredible running community that makes my life as a whole. (and many more.....).**

Plenty of Goodies !!!

2009-08-12T18:50:00.006-04:00

Here's my latest update.......

1. My Saucony Hurricane XI officially retired last week.

2. My newest kicks, the official New Balance 1225. Let me tell you, this kicks ROCK!

3. Most of you got right that I have decided to get into......

4. Not so fast here. I will start slowly in sprint, olympic and soon 70.3. One step at a time ! Hopefully get into 70.3 next summer!

5. Product Review: Clif Quench Sport Drink - You ought to try it. Its darn pretty good!

23 miles into a marathon, my body started to shut down. Not from a lack of training or calories, but simply because I was dehydrated; low on fluids and electrolytes. I've been there a thousand times in my lifetime. Since that run, I've learned that the majority of us walk around dehydrated every day without realizing it. Knowing that dehydration is critical to energy level and performance, we created a drink with one purpose - natural hydration. With 88% organic ingredients, 186mg electrolytes (130 mg sodium + 35 mg potassium + 21 mg magnesium), and 11 grams of carbohydrates, Clif Quench has the right balance of ingredients to keey you hydrated. Everything your body needs - nothing if doesn't. - Gary, Founder and Owner of Clif Bar & Company

6. At last, something for you to ponder.....

Run in the family???

2009-07-30T19:22:00.005-04:00

Hmmm. I think this definitely runs in the family.........

My nephew, Elliot, signed a letter of intent to continue his track and field and cross country careers at Northwestern College next year. Wooohoo! Check here !

What blown me away is that he ran 16:57 in 5000m. Get this... 5000m. That is 5K. That is 3.1 miles. Right? 16:57, thats my nephew! That is a freaking pace of 5:27 ! Awesome !

Now, my daughter, Erin, swam this morning. She completed 25 laps and beats 12 boys ! Guess this? Erin is only 8 years old. That's my girl ! Move over Janet Evans, here comes Erin - the future Olympian!
Now, I am going to leave a hint below and let you figure out what I did this morning that was the unthinkable. I swear to many of my friends that I will only stick with running and nothing else. I guess that will soon change.....

Only a few know about this and I will reveal in my next post very soon.

Lost of Mind!

2009-07-21T14:45:00.013-04:00

It is completely my fault. I had completely forgotten about the book that I am loaning from one blogger to another blogger. I had to trace it and found that Chic Runner had the book. I know. We are all busy, huh? Chic Runner was busy like any of us. She had read the book and now it is going over to the Enchantment State. Opps, that's New Mexico. I meant The Grand Canyon State and that is Arizona.

(click to enlarge)

I do hope the book will inspire the Youth Pastor's Family of Arizona to do some running. Enjoy the book. Read my post about how this works.

Now here's a quick bullet-style point of what going on with my running and my life...

Still running in preparation for my 7th marathon - Amica Marathon in Newport, RI.
Signed up for Rat's Race. September 19, 2009. Wall, NJ

A wheeled and accurate 10 mile run over woodland trails, over swamp and stream (at the end), and all followed by a great post race party with lots of food and beer, buns and burgers, D.J. music and fun. You must bring one of the items listed as a stocking stuffer that will be sent to our fighting soldiers overseas

My sis, Ms. Running Down a Dream, will join me for the Rat's Race. How cool is that? Tsk tsk tsk, anyone out in NJ/NY/PA region, please do think about signing up for Rat's Race!
I took my daughter on a ferry to see the Yankees game. It was truly wonderful to spend quality time with my daughter. Every minute of being with my daughter was so precious to me. At the end of the day, we took the ferry home. Erin and I was truly exhausted from all the fun. A wonderful gentleman was inspired to see me and Erin using sign language since I am Deaf. He went up to my daughter and gave her the baseball. He caught the ball by one of the Yankees player at the game. I was speechless. He said "I was watching both of you talking to each other. I had to give the ball to you." Talk about precious ! Thanks to a wonderful gentleman for giving her the baseball.

One last note... Whenever you have a chance, please do spread the love to anyone who is interested in making contribution to my fundraising as you can see on the right sidebar. Many THANKS !

My new kicks act like a fireworks!

2009-07-06T19:12:00.005-04:00

Hope you all had a good 4th of July weekend! I know I did. One negative, it went by so FAST! I had plenty to eat with the cookout. I had a good rest. I spend quality time with my family. The highlight was getting a new kicks. This is the kind of kicks that I will not be using regularly. This is my special kicks. The only time will use it for racing purpose. It is like putting a Ferrari on your feet. In the last four years that I have run, I have never own a racing shoes. I have done my research and chose Saucony Fastwitch 3.

Now, get this. This is like having a real Ferrari ! It is lightweight. It is like running barefoot. I have put this to a real test on Fourth of July. Now, are you ready for some real kick ass result. Look below and it's real surprising!

You can say that my racing kicks act like a fireworks. I was on fire. I was smoking up on the asphalt. Keep this in mind, my average pace is about 8:30 to 9:30 with training kicks like Saucony Hurricane XI. With my "Ferrari" kicks, my pace came to 7:21. My eyes fell off the sockets when I looked at my splits. I was grinning from ear to ear like a Grinch that stole Christmas. I was beaming with a big smile everywhere after this and realized that I don't have a single fly on my teeth after running this fast. This is freaking awesome! I have to say this is the first time I ever seen this.

Before I go, I wanted to extend my thanks to Ms. Running Down a Dream (plus her mom and her sister), joyRuN and Ms. Ramblings of a Running Addict for their generous contribution to the Epilepsy Foundation.

Now, I am putting my shoes in a glass case just like where you put the fire extinguisher in it. I will only break the glass whenever I need it for a big race ! ;-)

My running experiment !

2009-06-30T11:21:00.009-04:00

Before I go any further, my fundraising is up and running. When you have a moment, please do visit my fundraising page. I think it is so awesome and so cool to be doing this. I am very excited and quite emotional thinking about doing this fundraising. Right now, a light bulb just popped in my head. I need to get a fancy "Epilepsy Foundation" running t-shirt to show my appreciation for when I run the Amica Marathon in Newport, Rhode Island in October.

THANK YOU SO MUCH for taking the time to view my fundraising page. Please spread the love to anyone you know that might be interested in making the donation.

Now back to what I need to tell you about my running experiment, I promise I will try to be succinct here.

I am reading a book by Jeff Galloway for my own curiosity. How many have you tried his method?
I have decided to do the experiment which I did last week. Last Tuesday, I ran 20 miles using the Galloway's concept. What I did was to break up in four stage...

1st stage: Walk 2 min, Run 3 min at comfortable pace for 45 min.
2nd stage: Walk 2 min, Run 3 min at comfortable pace (the last 30 second at faster pace) for 45 min.
3rd stage: Walk 1 min, Run 4 min at comfortable pace for 45 min.
4th stage: Walk 1 min, Run 4 min at comfortable pace (the last 30 second at faster pace for 45 min.
The last fifteen minute - all out ! My calculation based on this is to finish my 20 miles in 3:15.

Result: Got the job done in 3:15:30

Now, here's the thing. I've compared to my run from the Vermont City Marathon which I did last month. Keep in mind.... I ran from 0 to 20 miles with no walking break.

Result: 3:16

Now, is that weird ????? It is almost identical. Look below !

Using Galloway's Method

Vermont City Marathon: No walking break!

Conclusion: After I did the experiment, I've felt that I have the extra energy to finish up the marathon. Based on doing this experiment, I am positive that I can finish the next marathon with a goal of 4:15 or less. *finger crossing* When I did the Vermont City Marathon, I did feel quite exhausted after doing the 20 miles. I think using the Galloway method is the way to go for me. However, I think I want to do some tweaking before I head out to Rhode Island this October.

Before I go any further, I want to do a shout out on one blogger from New Hampshire who wrote an interesting post: Walking in Marathon: Does it Disrespect the Race?

Happy Fourth of July to everyone out there!

Running for a good cause ???

2009-06-22T09:18:00.005-04:00

It has been a crazy month. I have find it increasingly difficult to get around to my computer these days with my girls out of school. I am sure most of you are going through the same as I am.

In the meantime, I wanted to seek your opinion. I need your advice. I REALLY DO NEED YOUR SUGGESTION. Help !!! Any suggestion you have would be GREATLY APPRECIATED.

You see.... I have been doing A LOT OF THINKING. POUNDERING. MULLING !!! Ok, here's my question. I think the use of blogging is terrific. A great source of motivational tool. Bloggers get terrific support like I do from you guys! I have made numbers of wonderful friends lately through blogging. I love updating you guys about my running progress.

Here's the thing. I have about four months till my next marathon in Newport, Rhode Island. I wanted to do something different. A light bulb came into my head. I want to raise money for one special organization. It is called Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania.

My youngest daughter, Sarah, has what is called complex partial seizure. She is currently taking medication to control seizure. It is a blessing that she has been doing so well. However, she does gets very small seizures from time to time. Without medication, it would have been worst. There are several factors that can affect her seizure threshold (i.e., ear infection, fever, lack of sleep, too much excitement). I have met a wonderful woman who works for Epilepsy Foundation in Philadelphia. She also has epilepsy. She is truly wonderful and been very helpful to me. I have mentioned to her that I am very interested in raising money for the Epilepsy Foundation.

Now, my question is.......

Should I include fundraising component to my blog? or should my blog be focus entirely on running and training regiment?
Has anyone tried using FirstGiving as a way to raise money for a charity of their choice?

How much money should I raise within 4 months prior to Amica Marathon in October? 1,000? 2,000? 2,500?
Do you happen to know any terrific online fundraising beside FirstGiving?
Any suggestion?

Before I go, I wanted to leave a really cool video of Sarah when she was learning how to ride her bike without the training wheels. It took me two days to teach her and now she loves it. You have no idea how NERVOUS I was when I had to let her go. It was nerve wrecking. However, the reward has paid off. Sarah enjoys riding bike along with her big sister, Erin.

Have a TERRIFIC rest of the week!

Pictorial Recap - Brooklyn Half Marathon

2009-06-09T09:06:00.023-04:00

Yo -- I am so sorry for not keeping you posted of my running activity. This is definitely my time to catch up with my blogworld. I have been in seclusion lately due to Marci's retirement. I couldn't muster myself up since Marci's departure. You see - I took this very hard. However, I do understand that she has to move on. I promise you that I will not type up too much but do want to leave a lot of pictures for you to enjoy.

This was my first time ever completed one full marathon (Vermont) and one half marathon (Brooklyn, NY) in one week. I have made one promise a long time ago that I would run with one cool blogger, Ms. Running Down a Dream, aka Michelle. This was Michelle's first half marathon in a long time. She was so worried that she wouldn't finish it. I've told her that we are going to have fun and we will get the job done. All she had to do was follow my ass. We had a GREAT time! I also had a wonderful opportunity to meet one DailyMiler (www.dailymile.com) aka Samantha since she doesn't have a blog yet. I am hinting that she should ,someday, set up a blog. ;-) I also had a terrific opportunity to meet Ms. Why do I Run? Because I can aka Christie. You have to meet Michelle and Christie. They both are terrific runners. They are both a joy to run with. Christie wasn't able to run and she was smart to do it. She listened to her body very well. By the way, I love the way she laughs. She knows how to make it all the merrier especially during the post-race luncheon.

Enjoy the pictures....

Brooklyn Half Marathon, May 30, 2009

Driving before the sun up to Brooklyn. Eating Dunkin Donuts!

Running with Michelle on the left.
Samantha, Michelle and Ted

The long line to Port a Potty

Michelle (l) and Samantha (r) in Prospect Park.

Cool Relief !

Must be me running in hallucination?

Made it ! Ted and Michelle
Famous Nathan's Hot Dog in Coney Island.

Post Race Luncheon at a Russian Cafe on Brighton Beach........

Ted, Samantha, Christie, Michelle, Susan (Michelle's sister)
(l to r) Susan, Samantha, Michelle, Chris, and Christie
One hot couple: Christie and Ted

Now more more more pictures of my wife who completed the 1.2 miles Navesink Swim Meet last Sunday. My wife, Kathy, completed in 38 minutes.
My wife in black wet suit.
Kathy in white swim cap getting ready!
Kathy, Sarah, Ted, Erin
Erin and Sarah - Future Ironman Competitor!

AND LAST, the official photograph of me nearing the finishing line at Vermont City Marathon.

This just in: I have signed up for my #7 marathon - Amica Marathon in Newport, Rhode Island this fall (October 18, 2009). Anyone care to join me?

Get the show on the ROAD !

2009-05-27T09:27:00.011-04:00

Yo Folks... I have completed my sixth marathon. It wasn't the best but I have every reason to be proud of my own accomplishment. I would do it again in a heartbeat. I love Vermont. I love Burlington. I love Vermont City Marathon itself. The hills was nuthing! Here's the recap in bullet style points.

The highs.....

Taking the girls to Teddy Bear Factory.
Got a wonderful opportunity to meet a Canadian blogger for a cup of tea the night before the race. Marci of the Ramblings of a Running Addict and her husband were the nicest couple I've met. We've chatted for a good 45 minutes about running!!! (should have brought my camera).
Weather wasn't too bad. I didn't care since it was cool most of the time. At the start of the race, it started as a sprinkle. 50 to 60 degrees. Half hour into the race, it was downright pouring for an hour or so. At the end, the sun came out.

The lows...

My daughter, Erin, was sick the entire time. She came down with bad fever, coughing and sore throat.
Completely stressful. Long driving. Short visit. My wife and I taking turn by taking care of Erin. Worried that it may pass to my youngest daughter, Sarah, who have seizure disorder.
Very uptight myself along with poor hydrating and pre-race meal. Wasn't in the right frame.
Came so close to bailing out.
Sarah convinced me to run the race. She said to me "Dad - Please think nothing. Think about running. Erin will be fine. Please go."
Erin, at last, said to me "Dad, please get the show on the ROAD. Now !"

Pictorial recap....

The girls at Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.

ErinSarahThe uphill at mile 15.

The stats...

The video...

Check this cool website where you can view my stats. Type in my BIB number which is 879.

And at last... my final time...... 4:33:18. After the race, I've made a dash to the hotel to be with Erin. She was in bed with a fever. I gave her the medal and said "Erin, you are my HERO for calling 911 when Sarah had the bad seizure last January." She was in tears when I put the medal around her neck. Erin is the one who is a real sport for the entire weekend.

P.S. Erin is feeling better. I took her to the doctor yesterday where she came down with a strep throat. She is now on antibiotic and doing well.

One last note.... How cool is that for a 9 years old boy to complete the Vermont City Marathon ?

His time: 4:18

The keyword is.......

2009-05-18T11:04:00.007-04:00

When I run consistently, I feel my form is the most efficient. My legs stronger. My breathing in rhythm. Let my mind get in the flow. In and out. My mind is like this below....

I have to block everything out of my mind and focus on the harmony, the rhythm and the pulsating of every fiber in my body.
I don't want to be fixated on numbers or focus on the clock. (i.e., 5 miles to go.. 4.8, 4.6...) Just turn on the Garmin and don't dwell on it.
Let my mind act like a river. Let the River flow and let the river carry me to the finish line at the Vermont City Marathon this Sunday with grace and in good will.

It is my hope that I will have the opportunity to meet three bloggers whom I know that will be running in the Vermont City Marathon: Laura of Ms. Absolut(ly) Fit, Marci of Ramblings of a Running Addict, and Peter of This View of Life. Laura will be the official pacer. I was pretty sure I came so close to meeting Marci at the Philadelphia Marathon last November but it never happened. I have just discovered Peter a few weeks ago as he is preparing for his second Vermont City Marathon. I am also a friend with him via DailyMile.com where we compared running notes. It is like a Facebook for serious runner. You should join in the DailyMile.com and connect with me (SeeTedRun). We can always use this tool to motivate each other.

~~~~ Have a GOOD rest of the week to all of you!~~~~~

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T13:06:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day everyone! I went out for my quick run so that I could spend time with my wife and my two daughters on this special day. I brought my camera along for my run this morning.

Pictures from NJ Marathon/Long Branch Half Marathon

2009-05-03T19:09:00.010-04:00

Woooo!!! Believe it or not, it was my first time ever to witness the Marathon as a spectator. I have to say that I was in AWE. I am so pumped up for my #6 Marathon in Vermont in three weeks. My wife participated in her second Long Branch Half Marathon.

I was spectating with ShoreTurtle this morning. He was such a riot! He did actually use the cowbells the entire time. My ears are still actually hearing the ringing!
The best part was giving the high fives to runners.
It was GREAT to see Flyers26, Progman2000, joyRuN and ShoreTurtle today. I wasn't able to find BommaMomma and her husband.
The weather was good during the first hour and it started to pour for the rest of the day.

Enjoy the pictures.....

Flyers26, Progman2000, ShoreTurtle and joyRuN
(My sincerest apology to Progman. I was having trouble trying to delete the red-eye effect and somehow made it looks like he has black-eye.)

My wife who participated in Half Marathon.

Off they go!

ShoreTurtle and his famous hat!

Larry the Lighthouse - Mascot for NJ Marathon

Congratulations to Flyers26, Progman, joyRuN and BommaMomma for finishing the race and to everyone else, too! My wife finished in 3 hour and half with a terrible case of bursitis (hip area). She refused to give up and managed to cross the line with such pain. She was a fighter all the way. Again, Congratulations to everyone!

Good Luck to EVERYONE!!!

2009-05-02T09:09:00.011-04:00

Yo everyone... I wanted to wish you all the best of luck this weekend. I do know that there are LOTS of races going around the country. Good Luck to those who will be participating in tomorrow New Jersey Marathon/Long Branch Half Marathon. Also, Good Luck to those who will be participating in Pittsburgh Marathon tomorrow as well.

Please wish all the bloggers below who will be either participating in NJM or LBHM.

Program2000 in Long Branch Half.

joyRuN in NJ Marathon

BommaMomma in NJ Marathon and her husband in Long Branch Half

The Running Laminator in Long Branch Half.

Flyers26 in Long Branch Half.

Elsewhere...

Between the Miles in Eugene (OR) Marathon.

My sincerest apologies to anyone that I didn't mention if they are running in marathon or half marathon this weekend.

So it will be me and the Shoreturtle who will be spectating tomorrow at the NJ Marathon and Long Branch Half Marathon.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU !!!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-29T15:10:00.005-04:00

Labels: first customer, new kicks, released today, Saucony Hurricane XI, stole concept from Lily on the Road

Running down the Memory Lane....

2009-04-27T15:23:00.015-04:00

Here's the bullet-style coverage of my running excursion last weekend. I've made a quick trip to Pittsburgh for a planned 20 miles run.

Flew on USAirways for $40 dollars each way. Beats the driving.
Stayed at the hotel for free. (Gift certificate)
Paid 72 cents for one glass of martini, dozen of raw oysters and Ahi-Tuna for dinner ($50 gift certificate, Wooohooo!)
Paid $30 dollars for two days of rental car. A Pontiac G6 wasn't too bad and it came with GPS Navigator.

Here's the fancy stats/map/pictures...

Negative: I've made too many stops to take pictures while running down the Memory Lane. I've made stops. I looked at it and said "Holy cow, it's still there after all these years."
Starting temperature: 63-63 degrees
Finishing temperature: 84 degrees
Positive: TERRIFIC Hill workout !!!

Ended up running 17 miles in 3 hours.

Photo Gallery: Pittsburgh Run

Starting Point

Beer Pit Stop!Long and Winding Road! (Ingomar Road to North Park)Why putting loo way up on the hill?My first home (1968-1972)This was the best part of my running. I ran on this trail during my high school cross country daysMy second home (1977-1984)North Allegheny Senior High School

WHAT A MEMORY !!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO BXMers!/Update/Upcoming Trip

2009-04-20T13:58:00.013-04:00

Before I go any further, I wanted to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all runners who have completed the 113rd Boston Marathon today! My hat off to all of you!

I am starting to get the kick out of making bullet-styled point update....

Ran last Saturday in Asbury Park Half Marathon.

Out of the blue, it was unseasonably warm. Race start temperature: 55 degrees. Finish race temperature: 73 degrees. Later that day, it hit close to 80 degrees for the first time this year.
I didn't taper at all last week prior to half marathon race. Only took one day off.
My sinus flared up! Spring time !
Race result: Came in 26th place out of 60 in age group @ 1:48:20 (Pace - 8:16)

Can't you believe two chicks outpaced me, dang it !

Update.....

33 more days till Vermont Marathon
No specific goal. Just finish it.
I took the liberty to study the elevation of Burlington, Vermont. This is unofficial research of mine on elevation.

Simply put: Not a flat-pancake course.

My unofficial mapping of Vermont Marathon.

I have decided to do something different out of this world. Don't get me wrong, New Jersey has plenty of bunny hills. Got me thinking..thinking..thinking... I have a terrific idea. I grew up in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is notorious for killer hills! I haven't been to Pittsburgh in 25 years (except for making a layover and drove through to Ohio). I have three valid reasons for wanting to run in Pittsburgh this weekend.

I am planning to do 18 miles run in Pittsburgh this Saturday. Check the elevation...

Killer hills, huh? Hee heh!

(click to enlarge)
My projected run in Pittsburgh.

Three reasons to run in Pittsburgh.

A run in the past is a blast ! Retracing my steps of growing up in Pittsburgh. I will have a chance to see my two homes I used to live. Schools. Parks. Neighborhoods.
This will give me a good closure since my brother used to run a lot in Pittsburgh.
I haven't been there in 25 years and this will be a terrific killer-hills workout for me to prepare for the Vermont Marathon.

HAVE A TERRIFIC REST OF THE WEEK.

Happy Passover & Happy Easter Everyone!

2009-04-12T12:26:00.008-04:00

I wanted to wish everyone out there a Happy Passover and Happy Easter. I will make this more of a pictorial post since I know you all are probably drinking too much wine or eating too much ham today.

I had the opportunity to run with 100+ runners today for a preview of New Jersey Marathon/Long Branch Half Marathon in Long Branch, NJ. I ran one loop this morning (13.1 miles). At the start, it was 35 degrees with a wind chill factor of in the low 20s. Not one hint of spring in the air at all. I had a cool opportunity to meet BommaMama for the second time. I also met BommaMama's husband. He was pretty cool guy and also met her friend, M, from Boston. She and her friend are doing the NJ Marathon while her husband will do the half. The NJ Marathon/Long Branch Half Marathon will be on May 3rd.

**Kudos to BommaMama and M for doing the 20 today while her husband doing the 10 today.**

Enjoy the pictures!

Art C, Director of NJRRC, giving pre-race announcement.

Pier Village - Long Branch Beach

BommaMama (center) with her husband (right) and her friend from Boston (left).

Official Start of the NJ Marathon/Long Branch Half Marathon

BommaMama's husband.BommaMama and M .Downtown ~~Deadville~~ Long Branch

Between 9 - 10 mile marker !

Happy Easter and Happy Passover Everyone!

This just in.... BLOG ALERT !!!

2009-04-07T08:50:00.005-04:00

This just in.... That Pink Girl will be shipping the book (50/50 by Dean Karnazes) to Chic Runner of Southern California. Head over to the Chic Runner and read about her amazing story about adoption. It is nice to know that the book is finally heading to the West Coast. Like I said, "Let's get the book MOOOOO-VING!".

Picture of the Week...

SeeTedRun featuring in the heart of Times Square!

Have a GREAT week !!! Now, name the blogger's famous quote - "Life's fun if you don't weaken." That quote really sticks right to my heart.

Book is on the loose, soon?

2009-04-06T12:56:00.004-04:00

I am sensing that Pink Girl is ready to ship the book to the next blogger..... Tsk tsk tsk.. the book needs to get out of Texas as soon as possible. I just don't want the book to get near W. Just kidding.. however, the book needs to head to someplace exotic.

So far....

Book has travelled a little over 3,725 miles
been in two countries (United States and Canada)
Three different states (NJ, Michigan, Texas)
6 female readers, 1 male reader
Now let get the book moving, shall we???
Who will the 8th blogger be?

Now head over to that Pink Girl and be the first to get the book and let's GET MOOOOOO-VING!

(click to enlarge)

Who knows? It could be Dean Karnazes next!

OMG !!!

2009-04-01T09:36:00.004-04:00

OMG !!! I cannot believe its April 1st already. I have no idea how time flies ???? Don't you realized that I only posted one thing last month. WTF ??? What was I thinking??? I had to whip my butt and get started on my blog. I apologized for not getting back to you and keep you in the loop with my "running" life.

I have terrific new for you to share with.... I think this is going to make your day. I have received a call from a representative who have read my blog. He has explained to me that his company is starting up a new company that is in the process of manufacturing top of the line running shoes. At first, I'd thought he was giving me all kind of BS over the phone. First of all, I have no clue to how he got my phone number. This kind of freak me out. In order for him to prove to me of his legality, he emailed me the pictures of the first five new running shoes that will be out in the public this July 1, 2009. I was kind of reluctant to look into it. However, he has convinced me to put this up on my blog. The first 20 to respond my blog will get a new running kicks and have to write up a review on your own blog before it goes public on July 1st. The first twenty responder will receive $5oo signing bonus. Your review will be published in the running magazine in June. I know this is hard to pass up. Under one condition, I cannot release the name of the new running company and the product. I was sold so I did signed the clause not to reveal the name. Once you respond to my post, I will need your email address so I can have the representative ship you the running shoes plus the $500 check. You have every right to like it or hate it. No obligation. Good Luck!

Now, I am here to give you "bullet-style" update about my running and myself...

I have signed up for Asbury Park Half Marathon for April 18th. Psst... Flyers26, Progman2000, ShoreTurtle.. hint hint !!! (and for anyone out there who lives near NJ, sign up!!!)
I cannot believe Vermont Marathon is next month already.
I have no training for the Vermont Marathon since I am maintaining my low mileage running schedule. I have no goal other than to complete the run. If it's four or five hours, so be it. I just want to have fun.
I had the opportunity to run with a new blogger, BommaMama, last March 15th. Read the post.
I need to catch up with other bloggers.
Many THANKS to Ms. Running Down a Dream and 2nd Chances for on-going support.
My beautiful princess, Erin, turned 8 yesterday. I cannot believe she is growing up so fast.
My beautiful angel, Sarah, is making nice progress. She had a small ear infection last week and now on different antibiotic. I've been on the edge this week but she seemed to be fine. I am a firm believer that your prayer is working well.
Now, it's time for me to crank up my mileage in order to get ready for Vermont Marathon.
Hope all of you are doing well and cannot wait to read your updates.

Now, this is how I am going to prepare for my run just like this for Vermont Marathon.

50/50 Book Tour/Sunday Run/Thank You Note

2009-03-08T13:42:00.015-04:00

It has been awhile I haven't post here. This is the time where I need to get my butt moving! I have three interesting updates here. It is quite long so get yourself a cup of coffee or gatorade while you are at it.

I have good and bad new about the 50/50 book tour. I think you all want the good new first. The good new is that it is finally M-O-V-I-N-G! The bad new is that it is still in the same state where George Bush is currently living. It is just a small hop from the hand of One Step At A Time to That Pink Girl!. I tell ya. I let out a groan that it has to hop in the Big D, hence, Dallas! Totally kidding !!! I am glad That Pink Girl! will be reading the book. I know she will enjoy the book immensely.

Here's the recap...

Now to the fun part... I had a terrific opportunity to run with three running bloggers today. In the past, I have had bad luck of not being able to meet the bloggers. This time... I have made it and got a chance to meet ShoreTurtle, Flyers26 and joyRuN at ~~Sleazeside~~ Seaside Heights, NJ. I have to admit it was my first time running in this area. The best part was running through Island State Park which was pretty cool. I ran the majority of the time with Flyers26 while ShoreTurtle and joyRuN was on a different pace. I have to give all three high fives for getting the job done. I was totally in awe of Flyers26. First of all, he ran a 7 miles on trail yesterday. He didn't allow himself to rest for this LSD run. Get this, Flyers26 ran 16 miles with no hydration pack or even a bottle of whiskey. Nada. Zilch. Zero ! He did manage to get some water from a water fountain around the 15th miles mark. I mean.. who in the right mind would run for 16 miles with nothing to drink? He is very "solid" runner! High fives to ShoreTurtle and joyRun for getting out there. I have great admiration for those three runners!

ShoreTurtle, Flyers26, joyRun

joyRun and Shoreturtle (around 3 miles)
Flyers26: Wondering if I can drink this?
ShoreTurtle and joyRun: The Road to Nowhere!
Flyers26: Running the Sahara, Part II

Here's the stats....
Many THANKS to ShoreTurtle, Flyers26 and joyRun for allowing me to join the run today. Listen up, we need to do this again!

On a last note, I wanted to personally thank BeachRunner and Marci for mentioning about a blogger who had experience with seizures. The name of the blog is 2nd Chances and she has been truly wonderful to me via email. Melanie of 2nd Chances has been very supportive while I was going through a rough time. It is a blessing that we both are corresponding and talking about different things in life. Kudos to BeachRunner and Marci for the connection! It means the world to me!

Thanks for your support!

2009-02-23T09:05:00.006-05:00

It has been awhile I haven't blog. This has been a very difficult month for me - personally ! I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the wonderful comment you have left for me in my recent post.

I took my daughter, Sarah, to see her neurologist last Friday at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The good new is that her current medication is doing good when she is feeling good and healthy. The neurologist gave a new prescription in the event that Sarah vomits like when she gets a stomach flu. The medication will help prevent her from getting seizure so that will help - hopefully. In the event that she gets into seizure when she is very sick, there is also another medication that will stop the seizure. So all is set ! I have the plan all set up. I am very optimistic that she will do very well.

The only problem is ME !!! I've lost a total of six pounds in four days right after my daughter had the seizure. I couldn't eat or drink since it was quite traumatic for me. I went right from 155 to 149. As of this moment, I am now at 148. This is the lowest I've been. I did gain a couple but it slid back to 148. I do have trouble sleeping and do get recurring nightmares. I am having so many flashbacks. I keep waking up in the middle of the night to check on Sarah. My wife reassured me that Sarah will be fine. My biggest fear is that she will get seizure in the middle of the night. Sarah's neurologist reassured me that she will not get seizure when she is feeling healthy as it always have been. I've told my wife that I have seen the worst and it keeps coming back to haunt me. In a way, I am glad my wife didn't see any of this since she was at the YMCA swimming pool.

Sarah's neurologist noticed that I couldn't hold myself up very well last Friday. I was quite choked up for the most part of the visit. He realized that I needed help. He has contacted a counselor from the Epilepsy Foundation to help me with this. I do need help. I have been feeling very withdraw for the last several days. The most important part is that I will get counseling to deal with my traumatic experience of witnessing my little angel getting seizure. I do not wish upon anyone to witness this event. Why does my little angel have to suffer? She didn't do anything bad! Why her? If I have the power, I would be gladly to take it from her and deal with it so that she could have a seizure-free life. If I could say this, I do have HOPE! With so much medical advancement these days, I do predict that there will be either cure, prevention or reversal for people with seizure (i.e., stem cell treatment).

I have realized that I haven't run very much this month. For the record, this will be my first month in the last 3 1/2 years to be under 100 miles. I have always gone over 100 miles every month. It will take time for me to restore my confidence and to get back into the routine. I had a very good 7 miles run yesterday as you can see my splits.

Now, I need to get my ass back in here and catch up on your blog. It has been too long!

Lastly, THANKS for hearing me out!

Life's too fragile...

2009-02-03T16:35:00.004-05:00

This is my blog. This is my outlet. This is my world. Whenever I need support, I know I will turn to my blog. Readers like you are becoming my family. I have found that my RBF - Runner Blogger Friend - are special people to me. None of us are perfect! I have wonderful family. They do care. A blog is a terrific place for all of us. I need to get this out of my chest.

This has been the most difficult period of my life just last Saturday. I was awaken by my oldest daughter who was telling me that my youngest daughter was having seizure last Saturday morning. I ran to her room to find that she was still having seizure and it wouldn't stop. I have instructed my daughter, Erin, to call 911 while I was at Sarah's side. Erin is a real hero! The paramedic arrived quickly. Sarah was rushed to the ER where she was stabilized. From the moment Sarah left with the paramedic team, everything went into a blur.

Sarah was transferred immediately from the local hospital to another hospital where they have pediatric intensive care unit. (PICU) She remained there for two days. It was the most agonizing several hours of waiting - VERY TENSE! After several hours of waiting, Sarah slowly opened her eyes. She is only 6 years old. The first thing she did was stick her left arm right out and signed "bathroom" (in sign language). I was overjoyed with tears. She looked around and said "Dad, What am I doing in here? Why am I here? Where am I?" I've told her that we are in hospital. I told her what happened earlier this morning. She was stunned since she does not remember any of this.

It was discovered that the antibiotic that she was taking for her ear infection earlier this week has lowered the threshold of her anti epileptic medication. At the same time, she developed a stomach flu last Friday. She was vomiting a lot. As a result, she was dehydrated. Sarah's electrolytes balance went out of whack. She vomited after she took the anti-epileptic medication. As the result, she went into seizure.

In the future, Sarah will be on a different antibiotic that won't lower the threshold of her anti-epileptic medication. I had to learn the hard way. In case if she cannot hold down the medication after throwing up, I am to bring her to the hospital where they can put the anti-epileptic medication by intravenous mean. Sarah has to maintain the same level in order to prevent from another seizure. If the level drops, she will be prone to getting seizure.

Sarah has made remarkable recovery. A quick one! She was supposed to be discharged today. However, she was discharged last night. She is so resilient. She will be okay. She is a tough cookie. I have great confident that she will grow up to be a beautiful individual - inside and out.

While Sarah and I had conversation last Sunday in her room, she said "Dad, you and I are best buddy." Erin overheard the conversation and said "Hey Sarah, I thought you are my best buddy. Not Dad!" Sarah corrected her by saying "Erin. You are wrong. You are not my best buddy. You are my best sister in the world. You are a hero for calling 911".

To wrap this up, Life is too fragile these days. Sarah was walking down the hall in the hospital with her mom, my wife. She asked my mom what's wrong with each children in each room. She explained that many children are sick and they need to get better. Sarah wanted to know if they will be okay. My wife reassured to Sarah that they will come out of the hospital in a better shape. To me.... I wish I have the power to make all of the children in this world including my daughter free of seizure and other health problems go away.

Just when I left the hospital to go home to get some rest, Sarah called me. She said "Dad, I love you" using the universal sign language for ILY. It is the best feeling in the whole world !!!

P.S. I am sorry that I couldn't make it to meet you at the New Jersey Marathon training run last Sunday. I was thinking of you guys! (Flyers26, Shoreturtle)

Report from the Jersey Shore

2009-01-27T12:55:00.007-05:00

Yo.... there is not much to report from the Jersey Shore. The good new is that I am still running. Hooo-rah !!! Another good new..... 52 more days till Spring. Here's my latest update from the Jersey shore....

#1 I am rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. I grew up in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh needs a six pack! Six rings! I know a lot of my friends are supporting the Cardinals since they never won a Super Bowl in their franchise history. My prediction.....

Pittsburgh Steelers 34

Arizona Cardinals 3

#2 ABOUT TIME !!! I ordered a new Yak Trak and it took 3 damn long weeks to wait for it. It just arrived today in my little mailbox. So far, I haven't had much snow or ice lately. However, GET THIS, we are expecting a mix of snow and ice tonight. Hmmm !!! I think it is perfect timing so that I can try it tomorrow morning. Right on TIME !!!

#3 I just bought a new pair of ~~killers~~ kicks a couple weeks ago. It is not that bad. This will enable me to rotate between my Saucony Triumph and my new Mizuno Wave Nirvana. This way, I will use the Nirvana for training and the Triumph for racing. I give a gold star for the Mizuno Wave Nirvana for the nice cushioning and support.

And at last... check the Facebook for NJM Training Run this coming Sunday, February 1st.
There are some bloggers out there who will be participating in the NJM Training Run like Flyers26, ShoreTurtle ???, and Progman2000. See you all this Sunday!

GO GO GO STEELERS !!!

Look at the Bright Side/ Book Tour

2009-01-14T12:52:00.012-05:00

How are all of you handling the heat wave so far? You might say .... "Ted.. WTF are you talking about?? What HEAT WAVE?". Me sorry for being so sarcastic! Look at the bright side...

65 more days till SPRING !!!

Look at the bright side..... only 65 more days to go! Feeling better??? Actually, we have 3/4 quarter left of winter *groaning* Two more months to go !!! Now, I feel better!

The good new is that my book is on the move again. Allow me to recap.... I am loaning the book called "50/50" by Dean Karnazes. He wrote a book about his experience in running 50 marathons in 50 days. The book is heading to a place where it is a little bit warmer. My book was kind of frozen for awhile up in the Great White North. The book is heading to McKinney, Texas which is about a half hour north of Dallas, Texas. Sonia of Solo Running Chick has mailed the book to #6 - Katie of One Step at a Time. This is the longest trip for the book. Enjoy the book, Katie.

#5 - Sonia of Solo Running Chick

Here's the pictorial recap so far.....

#1 - Progman2000 of NJ
#2 - Wendy of Michigan
#3 -Ms. Lily on the Road of Canada
#4 - Marci of Canada

Click to enlarge

STAY WARM !!!!

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

2009-01-01T11:15:00.012-05:00

On my behalf, I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year! May 2009 brings you much happiness in health and prosperity. I wanted to wish you all a healthy and injury free 2009.

Two days ago, I took my wife and my two girls for a quick trip to Manhattan to see the Christmas Tree at the Rock. I also took them to Times Square to show the girls where the major celebration will take place.

Yesterday, I had my last run of 2008. It was kind of weird! I kept saying "Sheesh, this is my last run for the year of 2008." I ran from my house to the beach called Sea Bright. 4 1/2 miles to the beach and 4 1/2 miles back home. I took my blackbery pager with me and took the last picture of 2008.

I took the picture at 9:15 a.m. and it was quiet!!!

My final running mileage for 2008....

So far, I don't expect to change anything for 2009. I want to maintain the same way as I did for 2008. I still want to maintain my goal of 1,500+ miles for this year. I have two marathons to run this year and they are....

May 24, 2009 @ Burlington, Vermont (Registration: confirmed)

and October 26, 2009 @ Dublin, Ireland (Registration: apply in late spring)

As for the rest of the year, I have not decided which smaller races I should sign up. I am looking for new races or the one that I have not participated before. I am at the point where I am not interested in signing up the ones that I have already participated.

So all in all, HAVE A TERRIFIC 2009. Hope you all had a wonderful celebration last night. I am particular interested in following all of you - BLOGGERS - this year with your running progress and race reports.

Heat Wave II

2008-12-23T10:10:00.006-05:00

This is going to be a quick post before I get busy with all the Christmas festive coming in the way.

This is about how to dress warmly when it is bitterly cold outside. Actually, this is the second installment on Heat Wave. As you know, yesterday was 15 degrees with a wind chill factor of -5 to zero (25+mph wind). This is what I had to wear yesterday...

I admit it. I admit. I will say this. It was plainly put - very STOOPID !! Too many layers! I was overheated. I've felt like a "running sauna".

This morning, it was 20 degrees with a light wind. The wind chill factor was only 15. That's NUTHING !!! Actually, it was quite warm this morning. Very balmy! The hell with Florida!!! We the Nor'Eastern runners don't like Florida at this time of the year. This is absolutely the most perfect weather to run today. I cut down the layers so I won't be overheated this time. Ta-da....

20 degrees (feels like 15 degrees) - Perfect !

Weather update: Tomorrow forecast - rain and the high 52 degrees. I think this will be TOO HOT to go out for run tomorrow. I might take a day off tomorrow and go for a swim in the ocean to cool off.

Heat Wave !

2008-12-22T10:42:00.009-05:00

Aren't we in the real funk at this time of the year? This is definitely a heat wave this morning!

I took a two days off which was really fantastic! As of this morning, it was 15 degrees with a wind chill factor of -5 to zero. It was gutsy outside! Wind clocked around 25+ mph this a.m.. It was like running down the beach in Miami this morning....
Three layers of pants! Three layers of long sleeve shirts. One jacket. Two pairs of gloves. Two pairs of underwears! Two pairs of socks! Two hats! No iPod! Perfect. Just like running on the beach in the middle of the summer.

Ok.. ok... ok... just in my dream !!!! You have to think like this in order to beat the bitterly cold temperature, right ???

Look at the map above, you can see Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota are having serious heat wave! I just don't know how they can go out and run!

In the meantime, I wanted to wish you all a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and Kwanzaa! May you have a wonderful time with your family and friends! I will be on a Christmas break and will post one more before New Year's Eve! Have a GREAT time to all of my cool RBFs!

Grolsch Beer Bottles Xmas Tree
Happy Hanukkah

Happy Kwanzaa

One last note.... I just hit 1,600 miles today which is quite an accomplishment for me. My last post before New Year's Eve will be a Year in Review and 2009 plans. I want to leave with one picture from the Philadelphia Marathon.

Me and my wife !

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OF YOU!

Marathon Number 6 !

2008-12-11T08:43:00.005-05:00

I have signed up for Marathon #6...

I did my homework. I have done my research. After careful reviews of several "spring" marathons for 2009. I have narrowed it down to one marathon that I think it is SUPER COOL !

The registration form and the check have been dropped at the Post Office. It is on the way...

Wanna know where is it....

Hint...

> May 24, 2009
> The best ice cream you can find.

I think two clues are enough for you to know which marathon I am going.

I have 5 months to get prepare!

P.S. Michelle and Xenia already know the answer so don't post it in the comment section. And for those who use Facebook, don't look it up!

The book is on the move.....

2008-12-03T12:17:00.007-05:00

Looks like the book on Dean Karnazes, 50/50, is on the move again.... It looks like it will stay up in the Frozen Tundra for awhile. It looks like the book will stay in Canada much longer than United States. Do you think my book needs a passport ?

Marci of Ramblings of a Running Addict has finished the book. She took the book with her to Philadelphia recently. She did the Philadelphia Marathon last week. I think that is so cool for her to read the book while she was in Philadelphia. Here's the snapshot of her at the airport while she was waiting for her flight back to Canada.

The book is on the way to another blogger in Canada. This time, the book will be flying to Montreal. Her name is Sonia M and check her blog called Solo Running Chick.

(click to enlarge)

Happy Reading, Solo Running Chick !

Frozen Bell Marathon

2008-11-24T08:41:00.022-05:00

It's over. I am glad it's over. Today is my "De-frosting" Day as in recovering !!! If I can sum it all up, it was Phantastic !!! The people in Philadelphia were ABSOLUTELY PHANTASTIC !!! I would do it again. *That's only if the temperature would get a little higher.* My heart goes out to the wonderful volunteers who did a remarkable job. Kudos to all the wonderful spectators. They were TERRIFIC. The best spectators in the world !!! The course was FREAKING AWESOME!!!

Enjoy the pictorial HIGHLIGHTS below.....

Pre-Race Packing
The view of starting line from 14th floor hotel balcony where I stayed.
Philadelphia Marathon Expo
Pre-Race Dinner (Homemade Potato Gnocchi)
@Italian Bistro of Center City! (Outstanding!!!)
Stripping Time!
Warming Up! It was 26-28 degrees at starting time. Light wind.
Off I go !! Before the picture was taken, I was trying to climb over the barricade. I lost my balance as I've tried to climb over. I landed on the barricade between my legs which sends shooting stars to my brain. My balls was busted! This send my head right down to the pavement head first. To my amazement, three samaritans grabbed me before I could see more shooting stars. They were WONDERFUL people! While my balls was in sheer pain, I'd thought my running career was over! NOT ! I was READY to go!
My wife took the picture from the hotel room. I think it was 8K Rothman in progress.
FINALLY back at the hotel savoring the moment of completing the Marathon.

The World According to Garmie.....

(click to enlarge)

And at last..... at home recovering with coffee, blueberry scones and sitting by the fireplace!!!

Official time > 4:26:44
Garmie time > 4:25:14

One last note...... This was my fifth marathon. In all honesty, it was the most difficult marathon for me. Not the course. The course was fantastic. I didn't have the right mentality at this time. The weather was a bitch. No question! Every water station was very icy on the ground. I was running in the back of the pack. I was blazing nicely until the 20th mile. After the 20th mile, I was losing steam and heat, too! Just before I left for Philadelphia last Saturday, it was with a heavy heart that I lost a wonderful friend whom I have come to know back in college. He passed away three days before I left. My wife insisted that I run in his name as a way to dedication. And I just did ....

After I cross the line, I was choked to tears!!! Richard -- I know I haven't been in touch with you but the memories back in college days were TERRIFIC. You had wonderful sense of humor and I am going to miss you. It is going to stay with me!

I am in the process of mailing my bib and the medal to his family in Michigan to let them know that he was in my thought as I ran 26.2 miles.

Gonna Fly Now !

2008-11-21T18:27:00.010-05:00

This is my last post before I head to the City of Brotherly Love !!! I cannot believe this is it ! Time to listen to "Gonna Fly Now". Time to get myself pumped up!!! I am ready to go and tear up the asphalt !

Before I go any further, I wanted to wish all the runners who will be participating in Philadelphia Marathon, Half Marathon and 8K the best! This includes...

> Laurel
> Denise
> Progman2000
> Flyers26
> Marci
> JoyRun

Hope I will have a chance to meet all of you !!! Good Luck to all of you !!!

My bib number is........

This coming Sunday, you can go to www.philadelphiamarathon.com to watch a live video.

Here's a picture of me doing pre-race packing....

GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU !!!

One last note, I wanted to personally thank from the bottom of my heart to Michelle who have been supporting me all along this past summer and this fall. She has been a real buddy to me. She has been listening to my negatives especially this week. She continues to email me and giving me "motivational" ideas. She ROCKS! It was so sweet of her and I wanted to thank her for hearing me out. We have been exchanging notes/idea about RUNNING all along! What a pal! Good Luck with your upcoming race, Michelle!

You can see why I am packing up the whiskey! As Viper would say that this is proper pre-race hydration!

Full of Negatives !!!

2008-11-17T20:18:00.012-05:00

What is wrong with me? I have been so full of negatives lately today. Call me a whiner! Call me a wuss! Call me a wimpy if you can! I feel like I am losing my momentum lately. I feel that September and October was the best month in term of my running. I have been making beautiful PRs left and right. I just feel like I hit a snag this morning.

I went out for my run this morning after I did my 13 miles run yesterday. I've felt my run was strong yesterday. I was battling against strong gutsy wind yesterday morning. This morning, it was a completely 360 degrees turn around. I've felt like I had nothing left in me when I was doing my four miles run. I was moving like a snail. My legs dead. I've tried to put my foot forward. Temperature dropping !!! Basically, I feel like SHIT!

Who wants to run tomorrow morning around 27 degrees? 27 degrees Wednesday. 29 degrees Thursday. WTF ! Where are the days of balmy 55 to 65 degrees? The feeling of nice warm air on your arms and legs. Who wants the feeling of icy air on your arms, legs and face (and ears)? Does it make you feel like you have asthma when sucking those cold air into your lungs?

This is my vision right now about this coming Sunday, November 23rd. It is my fifth marathon and my first in Philadelphia. I feel like calling it off and being in warm bed and just staring at this place below....

Ohhh man.. just come to think of this. Being in warm bed with a fireplace going on. My wife bringing me a cup of coffee with danish.
After eating Danish and sipping coffee, this is what I feel like having below....

After this.....
Who wants to run in Philadelphia Marathon with the freezing temperature when you think about being in warm bed with a roaring fireplace going on, warm danish with piping hot coffee and hot bubbly jacuzzi?? Have I lost my MOJO or what???

On the road again....

2008-11-08T20:02:00.011-05:00

You may remember that I did an earlier posting about the book that I am handing to others to read it.
It is now on the road. Earlier, Progman2000 from New Jersey was the first to read the book.

Progman2000 of New Jersey

Then the book flew to Michigan of Mrs. Shop.Jog.Blog. The second reader.....

After Mrs. Shop.Jog.Blog, the book headed out to the Great White North of Mrs. Lily on the Road. She was the third person to read the book.....

Now, the book is heading to Durham, Ontario to a blogger by the name of Marci of Ramblings of a Running Addict. Enjoy the book, Marci.

By the way, the book needs to head out to Europe or the western part of the country, Don't you think ???

I'm backkkkkkk...

2008-11-08T18:47:00.010-05:00

Homies...... I am backkkkkkkk !!!!

You are prolly thinking... WTF? Where's the hell is Ted? Unfortunately, I am back in Noo Joisey. I didn't want to come back but I have to but I don't to but I had no choice but I had to get my ass back here. Any idea where I went with my family???

Erin as a Pirate and Sarah as a Blue Clue Dog.

Me and my wife @ EPCOT

Highlights.......

70-75 degrees
only one day of run, the rest was walking, walking and walking.
The best part was the International Food and Wine Festival at EPCOT. I had the opportunity to drink, drink and drink in every country. I cannot remember which country I had drink at. Was it England, France, Germany, Morroco, Canada, Japan, Poland, Spain ? Dang it !

NOW IT TIME FOR ME TO BUST MY TAIL AND GET READY FOR THE PHILADELPHIA MARATHON IN TWO WEEKS !!!!!

This stats below are only if you truly care....

I am going to try to figure out how to catch up with the rest of you. Any suggestion? Should I read all of your old postings or delete all of it?? Should I start reading new posting starting today? Any suggestion would be helpful as I am trying to make my life easier? Can't you see how stressful it was for me to travel from one country to another country sampling different drinks? *wink* Most importantly, I had a great time down in Florida during Halloween weekend. The weather was phenomenal. My wife and my girls had a GREAT time!!!

Gone Fishin'

2008-10-28T13:36:00.005-04:00

Yo everyone... This is to let you know that I am doing well and still kicking around !!! I am going to take some time off and away from the computer for awhile. I just don't want you to be biting your fingernails or counting the beer bottles while waiting for my next post. In the meantime, have a TERRRIFIC rest of the week and enjoy running in this fantastically "cool" or "cold" Fall weather.

Following my shadow.....

2008-10-22T10:39:00.005-04:00

Here in New Jersey, it has not hit the peak with the fall foliage. I would have to say about 40% right now. Here are the pictures that I took this morning. I did something different and that is taking a video of my first "Fall" run. Look everyone, I have tried so hard to stabilize my camera while running. No easy feat! Suggestion for holding the camera still while running???

More pictures....

Weather: 48 degrees, 49% humidity (real feel = 43%), windy and sunny!

ENJOY YOUR "FALL" RUNNING EVERYONE!!!

Running Potpourri

2008-10-16T13:38:00.023-04:00

Well.. this is it. My 100th post! I feel like a hundred bucks! I have so much sheets to unload (Can't get Little Jack off my mind!). This post will contains more images than words.

Last Sunday, I have completed my third time at the 36th Annual Long Beach Island 18 miler run. The weather was SEN-SAY-SHUN-NAL! Here's my past record at LBI....

10/08/06 > 3:03:53 (10:13 pace)
10/07/07 > 3:35:28 (11:58 pace) Hot Run! 88 degrees + 48% humidity = 91 degrees

10/12/08 > Scroll down

Recap: It was a great run. No speedwork. Just a typical Sunday cruise along Long Beach Island. I didn't want to go all out. I wanted to maintain my 8:30 to 9:30 pace. However, I felt my whole body stiffening up at the 16th milepost. I couldn't figure out a way to loosen up. It was a very relaxing run the whole way. WTF ??? I've felt like a rusted Tin Man at the 16th mile. I hope I won't have to deal with this crap when I run in the Philadelphia Marathon next month. Any suggestion???

Now, I have been ~~tasered~~ tagged by Michelle. Now, I have to tell you six random things about me. I will try to make this short as possible. I won't tag anyone so I am just being nice to you.

1. That's me when I was a rascal back in 1969.

2. I've changed my majors four times at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Photography. I wanted to be a Playboy Photographer.
Hotel/Tourism Management
Computer Science
At last, Social Work

3. My great-great-great Grandfather founded Yale University.

4. I wanted to look like John Taylor of Duran Duran back in 1984.

5. I drove over the cliff while I was under the influence of ETOH back in college days. Survived after car did several rollovers! Came out with only one cut on my finger. Never again! I'm THANKFUL to be alive! You know, we tend to think we are invincible back those days. Stooopid!

6. I used to live in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Iowa, New York, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Colorado and New Jersey.

Hope you all have a TERRIFIC week !!!

Congratulations......

2008-10-13T14:46:00.007-04:00

Whoa Nelly... This is my 99th post. My last post before I hit the 100th. I wanted to congratulate each bloggers for making a big accomplishment this past weekend.....

21 Days > Race for the Taste 10K - 1:01:25
A Brand New Life as a Runner > 20.1 miles training run - 3:20:51 @ 9:59 pace
A Runner in the Making > 22 Fun miles - 2:53
Absolut(ly) Fit > Hartford Marathon - 4:23
Adventures in the Thin Trade > Chicago Marathon - 4:52:29
Andrew is Getting Fit > Waitakere 11K - 56:00
The Booze Hounds Inc. Running Team > Towpath Marathon - around 4:24
Cynical Mud Babe > Heartland 50 Miles . 10:30:40
Diggin It > 16.6 Training Run
Frayed Laces > 16 miles Training Run
Gotta Run! > Chicago Marathon - 5:14:34
I Signed Up For This?!? > Mohawk-Hudson River Marathon - 4:15
JGurl > Jared Coones 5K, Garminless
Musings from the Desert> 5th Annual Cactus 7 mile Trail Run - 1:17:03
My road to the 2009 NYC Marathon > Staten Island Half Marathon - 1:57:36
Run Bitch Run, Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon (22 degrees) 6:20
Run Bulldog Run, Stonewall Jackson 20 mile - 2:07:46
Runner Susan, Chicago Marathon - 5:10:56 (unofficial)
Running Daily, Volunteering @ Huntsville Half Marathon
Running into a Brick Wall, Oktoberfest 5K - 42:05
Running to Stand Still, Bust growing ??? Measurement - unknown??? A new record???
Running Towards Myself, Staten Island Half Marathon, 2:18
Running, Wonky Ankle and All, 10K Along the Canal in Ottawa, 62:15
SuperDaves Running Away, 10K WorldWide Festival of Races, 59:02
Uptown Girl, Chicago Marathon (waiting for the result)

I am sure there are many more who have completed races/training run all over. I apologized if I have not put yours. If you have done any race and if I have missed it, please put in the comment section so others can see yours.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU !!!

Freaking Out !!!!

2008-10-09T13:20:00.013-04:00

You may wonder why I am freaking out... I will get that to in a minute. Need to give you a quick recap of what's happening in my real life the past several days.

Made a quick trip to Cleveland, Ohio to surprise my folks and my brother's family last weekend. My wife and my two girls had a GREAT time.
I've tried to find Viper in Ohio - Mission: FAILED.
I had the shortest run last Sunday. Logged in 3.63 miles. The shortest run of the year.
The weather in New Jersey is phenomenal !!!!!!
I went to Shore Runner store last night to meet two authors. Gerald "GP" Pearlberg and Bart Yasso.

Shore Runner Store: Pier Village, Long Branch, NJ
Gerald "GP" Greenberg, Author of "Run Tall, Run Easy"
Bart Yasso and Me.

Bart and GP are both COOL DUDES! Bart is on the way to Chicago for the famous marathon this weekend. Bart will make another trip to Freehold, NJ next week for another book signing event. (@ Freehold Area Running Club)

Now... wondering why the hell I am freaking out........

I just pulled a hammy this morning. Its quite sore and tender. It has to be the biceps femoris. Here's the thing... I have signed up for the Long Beach Island 18 miler race this Sunday. I will try to stay calm and see how it goes till Sunday. I am going to chill out for the next couple days. Don't fret, I will be COOL !!!

GOOD LUCK to anyone that will be participating in Chicago Marathon.
KICK ASS, PUUUHLLEASE !!!

Lastly, I have been tagged by a cool running blogger. I have to puke out six random things about me. I will have to think it over and post it on my next blog. Help me with this one!

Another HM, Another PR...

2008-09-29T12:02:00.009-04:00

Hope you all had a good weekend, I know I did. My weekend was pretty good except for the weather. I took a day off from running last Saturday. I have decided to really pig out. I was mostly eating potato chips all afternoon. I had a fat lobster and dipped in a bucket of artery clogging butter. Baked potato ! Bowl of ice cream with chocolate syrup.
Yesterday, I participated in the 15th Annual Newport Liberty Half Marathon in Jersey City, NJ. Keep in mind, I ran last year as well and my time was 2:00:01. My goal was to get it under 1:45 this time and I did. Another HR....

My final time.... 1:44:49

Here are the stats.....

My splits....
The map (route)....

click to enlarge

and finally, a picture of me....

I guess the secret to getting new PR is eat a lot of lobster the night before the race !

Truthfully, it was a very highly competitive half marathon I have participated. I've felt that I didn't do well but with the fact that I ran a new PR. The last three miles was truly a struggle for me.

Three critical mistakes I've made here....

I took off too fast in the beginning.
Unhealthy pre-race dinner ???
I didn't put vaseline over my nipples. Stoopid. After the race, I was horrified to see two bloody spots on my shirt.

Dean Karnazes' Book Tour

2008-09-25T15:46:00.007-04:00

As you know, Mrs. Shop. Jog. Blog of Michigan has finished her book. She had a very difficult month. It is still up in the air whether she can do the Detroit Marathon next month. She hasn't run for a while due to shin splints. She has been recovering nicely. Guess where the book is flying to..... I will give you a hint....

Fat fat fat chance that you won't even recognize the Flag of an important city ? I guaranteed that no one from this country recognized this Flag unless you have gone there for vacation. It is a country that, WE, (I hate to say this but its the bloody truth!) don't even recognized. It's Canada but which city? Let me ask you this.... Anyone know who is the Prime Minister of Canada? I feel like a dipshit now. I don't even know who the Prime Minister of Canada is. Trudeau? I had to find it on the internet and its Stephen Harper. Ring a bell??? NOT ! The only thing I know about Canada are the wonderful beer like Molson Canadian.
Anyhow, the flag is the City of Ottawa. The Capital of Canada! Our great neighbor ! The book is now flying to the home of Lily on the Road of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She will be the third person to read the book. (Here's the rules!) I am excited since the book is going to a different country. I hope the book will make it through the custom.

I am still waiting for a picture of Mrs. Shop. Jog. Blog with the book. As soon as I get from here, I will be posting it.

Have a GREAT weekend and GOOD LUCK to anyone that will be running in races.

Kodak-moment !

2008-09-22T18:47:00.006-04:00

Rochester, New York ! I kid you - NOT ! I admit it. Rochester is one of the finest place! It brings me back memories. I've graduated from RIT - Rochester Institute of Technology. It is also a birthplace of Kodak. Here are the official pictures of Rochester Half Marathon. My wife who has not trained for this ran in 3:23:08.

Let's get the ball rolling!
Ladies and Gentleman... Start your engine!

Honey... I will draw an icy bath for you after you git this done! (I think she is trying to imitate Michael Jordan's trademark.)
Me Mean Running Machine !

Fall is not here yet....

2008-09-17T10:49:00.009-04:00

Looks like summer doesn't want to leave us at all !!! We are are anxious for cooler weather, right? It wasn't the case last weekend up in Rochester, New York. I flew in with my family to Rochester from Newark. Only $81.50 roundtrip fare per person on Continental Airlines! Who can't beat that? Anyhoo, I got up Sunday morning at 5:30 a.m. to get ready for 7:45 a.m. gun time. My wife, me, and other deaffies joined the half marathon. I tell ya.... it was 75 degrees and the humidity was so thick you couldn't cut it with a knife. It was like being in an outdoor sauna. I told my wife that I am not going for PR due to oppressive heat and humidity. After the gun went off, I walked with my wife and other deaf walkers. After two minute of walking, my wife insisted that I go out and kick ass. I told my wife "Are you crazy? In this heat and humidity. Forget it". She looked like she was about to kick my ass and said "GO GO GO!" I was like - "WTF". Believe it or not, I went ALL OUT till the finish line. I have never seen so many runners bailing out. Truthfully, I felt I was prepared for this. I was fully hydrated. I ate well the night before. I don't know if I was truly insane when I pushed it all the way with the heat and humidity. I think I am! Here's the stats....

After the race, it was 85 degrees with muggy condition. Am I insane or what?

Am I insane or what?

Am I insane or what ???

Read the newspaper article about the Rochester Marathon and tell me if I am crazy....

Therefore, I have a new PR for half marathon in this miserable condition...

Came in 179th place out of 1,378 finishers overall
Came in 12th place out of 94 finishers in Male 40-44 age group
Tell me if I am insane or what?

I tell you. I was crazy enough to registered for another half marathon on September 28th at Newport Liberty Half Marathon in Jersey City, NJ.

Pictures of Rochester Half Marathon will be posted in the near future. Hang on to your pant!

Short note to Marcy - I wasn't daydreaming at all during this time. ;-) Truthfully, I was thinking mostly about Ryan Hall and how gracefully he ran in Beijing. I've felt like I ran just like the way he did.

Another milestone....

2008-09-12T11:47:00.003-04:00

There is not very much to report from the Jersey shore! It is pretty quiet. Today is just another milestone. I have turned 44 years old. I don't feel like there is a huge transformation for me especially today. It is just merely adding another year to my life meter. No dramatic effect. No fanfare needed. Just like any other day! I've told my wife that I am not at the point where I want to celebrate in any way, shape or form. I've told her that I got my new Garmin 405 last June and I have considered as my early birthday gift. All I wanted is a quiet day and to go out for nice dinner with my family. I have made a valid point with my wife awhile ago. I've told her that I am truly blessed to remain healthy and I am still running. I have two healthy daughters. My youngest daughter has remained free of seizure for 15 months. She does not go into convulsion. She has what is called "absence seizure". In the past when she was little, she would stare for a few minutes and would snap right out of it. My wife and I took her to numerous doctors in Denver, New York City, New Jersey and Philadelphia. We are truly blessed that we've found the best doctor in the country and that is right in Philadelphia. It's the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Neurology Department. The doctor has found the right key to the right door for my youngest daughter. She has been free of seizure ever since. She had an abnormal EEG activity in the past. She had her EEG test done last July and for the first time, it revealed that she has normal EEG activity. I'd nearly died! It is evidently that she may have outgrown it. My point to my wife "All I want for my birthday is to be with my healthy family. No gift. Just a simple dinner will do!"

One last note, I have a cool Running friend from Brooklyn. We have been quite supportive in the past. We have been exchanging notes about running and music. We both are Apple iPod freak! She has a cool blog called "Running Down A Dream". I tell you, this chick really ROCK! She emailed me last night with the funniest song by Concrete Blonde called Happy Birthday. She really put a big smile on me. She warned me not to play the songs in front of my kids. She's right. Please do not play this song in front of your kids! Check this out.

To everyone out there, HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND. If anyone of you are running at any races this weekend, GOOD LUCK. I am heading to Rochester, New York tomorrow for Half Marathon this Sunday.

A birthday is just the first day of another 365-day journey around the sun. Enjoy the trip. ~Author Unknown

My reward has paid off !!!!

2008-09-07T11:49:00.012-04:00

Wooooooooo......I don't know where to start. I am feeling on CLOUD 9 right now. Let me see, I think I am entitled to do a little of bragging. Why not? I don't want you to think I am doing some kind of ego bashing here. I am at the point where I need to pat on my shoulder for working hard. I am feeling so in awe! Let me recap....

1. I ended my streak yesterday. I tell you. I was so damn cranky. I was glad that I took a day off.

2. I had a race this morning. Henry Hudson 8 miles race in Leonardo, NJ (in the section of Middletown, NJ). I wanted this to be my final tune up before I run in Rochester Half Marathon next Sunday.

3. I ended my streak at Day 27. My final stats:

27 days
177.50 miles
Approximately 20,294 +/- calories burned
Average 6.57 miles per day
Lowest mileage in one day: 5.13 miles
Highest mileage in one day: 17.45 miles
Weight in on first day: 155.0
Weight in on 27th day: 153.5

4. The weather was *censored* beautiful this morning. 70 degrees with less humidity. My goal was to complete 8 miles in 1:08:00 or less.

5. Drum rolls, please....

6. My result...................
7. Holy shit....

8. Holy shit...
9. Holy shit... I did it !!!!!!!!

10. Stats....
11. My splits.....
12. My pace........
13. I still cannot believe this....

14. I would never dream in a million year that I would be able to do 8 miles in 1 hour or do a 7:36 pace. I just remember vividly when I started running three years ago in Colorado. I couldn't barely do at least 5 miles in one hour. I am totally stunned !!! What the hell happened to me?

15. Hope all of you, RBFs, rock this weekend. I hope you all are having a TERRIFIC weekend and all of you rock at the different races this weekend.

16. Here's the map course. It was literally FLAT so that helps....

click to enlarge

The Wolverine State....

2008-09-04T11:17:00.005-04:00

Now that Mr. Progman has finished reading the book, the book is now flying to the Wolverine State.

The book will be flying into the hand of Mrs. Shop.Run.Blog of Michigan. I am new to her blog and it is a pretty darn good blog. She is getting prepare for the Detroit Free Press marathon on October 19th. She is the second person in line to be reading the book.

click to enlarge

For those of you out there, keep your eyes close to Shop.Run.Blog. Whoever responds to her future post will be the third person to read the book. Maybe someone in Canada or California, who know?

Psssst.... The book is on the loose.

2008-09-03T08:37:00.004-04:00

This just in.... The book is on the loose. You might want to head over to Progman's blogsite to check it out. Actually, the book is running away from him. Just kidding folks, Mr. Progman just finished the book and waiting to see who responded to his post in order to get the book.

Bedtime Reading: Mr. Progman reading to his kids.

The rules are pretty simple....

Respond to his post in order to be the next in line to read the book.
Mr. Progman will mail the book to you.
Read the book.
After reading the book, create a post in your blog and find out who wants to be next in line to read the book.
Ship the book to the next blogger.
You must take a picture of yourself with the book.
Write a small comment of what you think of the book in it.
Ship the book to the next blogger.
Lastly, you must use any form of human power (i.e, walk, run, skateboarding, bike) in order to take the book to the post office. Exception: If you live very far to the Post Office, use car.
HAVE FUN !!!!

Make sure you email me the picture (via my blogsite) so I can post the picture of each blogger with the book. I will be creating a slideshow at the end of this event.

P.S. I will be updating my next post on who the next blogger will be with the map and the chart. Let's see where the book will be heading to. Who knows? You !

The longest run for August....

2008-08-30T20:56:00.017-04:00

I have decided to do at least three - 20 miles run before the Philadelphia Marathon in November. I've realized that I needed to do it this month. This morning was my 21st consecutive days of running. Tomorrow will be my last day and I definitely need a day off! I got up at five am to get prepare for the run. It was pouring out which I was quite stunned. It hasn't rain very much in New Jersey for a quite a bit. I've checked the weather radar and realized it should clear up by 7 a.m.

I head out the door a little after 7 a.m.. Lo and behold, it was about 70 degrees and H-U-M-I-D!

By the way, like my cute socks?
My starting point !
My loaded hydration backpack!
Me at the starting point!
One of the bridge crossing to Long Branch.
Roadkill: A dead bagel. Poor dear Bagel, hope he had a good life!
Church of the Presidents - Deal, NJ
Historical Landmark: Find more information about this here.
Asbury Park Convention Hall - Asbury, NJ
I think I heard "Born to Run" here.
The famous bar - Wonder Bar with a mural of Tillie.
Another famous bar: The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ
I am done for the day.... Sea Girt, NJ

I ran a total of 17.45 miles. It was GREAT. I am planning to repeat this again next month. I had some negatives impact with this run. It was warm and muggy (thumb down). My backpack was too heavy (two thumb down and very STOOPID of me!) I will never wear hydration backpack again for my next long run. And lastly, I wasn't hydrated properly. Imagine, my piss was like the color of dark ale. My hydration backpack was only W-A-T-E-R. Stooopid again! I should have use Gatorade. What was I thinking???
One last note, I have to admit. I was a whiner in the beginning of my run. I've felt like I was carrying 20 lbs. backpack. While I was hitting the third mile, I came so close to throwing the backpack into the river. I've felt like a brick hit me in the head. I just realized that so many men and women are wearing heavy camouflage outfit in brutal heat of Iraq and Afghanistan. Imagine these men and women carrying 50 lbs backpack and rifle through the stifling heat. From that moment, I said to myself "Suck it up boy, endure it and take it like a man." It makes me realized how much respect I have for those men and women who are in Iraq and Afghanistan. I wanted to tell them how much I am grateful for these men and women who are defending for us and the freedom! Thank You.

My final route of the day....

Bring it on....

2008-08-25T12:37:00.007-04:00

The book is now on the way to RBF #1 - Progman2000 who will be the first to read the book. It is actually a short hop delivery. I will be keeping track of all the blogger on my spreadsheet and the mileage that the book will be logging in. It will be interesting to see how far this book will be going. Progman2000 will be reading, leaving a comment in the book and getting the picture taken with the book. Let's see how many states the book will be traveling through....

(click to enlarge the map)
The red dot you see is where it was originated and heading to Freehold, NJ.

Progman will create a post in his blogsite. Whoever responded to his blogsite will be the second RBF to get the book from him. And so on... I have decided to add one more rule to this challenge. After a person is done with the reading, he or she must use any form of human power to make the trip to Post office when shipping to the next RBF. (i.e., run, bike, skateboard, rollerblade, hopping or crawling.) I will make one exception. If any one of you live very far to the Post Office, you can use the car by all mean.

BRING IT ON !!!!!!!!!!!

Library on Wheel

2008-08-25T09:40:00.006-04:00

I have decided to do something different and unique. As you know, I have already read the book by Dean Karnazes. I don't like the idea of seeing that book sitting on the shelf collecting dust. I want to put the book into good use. I was thinking of selling it. Nah !!! Put it up on eBay. Nah !!! Put it up during garage sale. Nahhh! I have a brilliant idea. This is like having a Library on Wheel. I have decided to loan the book to the next 5o RBFs (Running Bloggers Friends). Here's how it works.

1. Whoever responded to my post that would like to read the book free of charge, I will mail the book using media rate at the Post Office. Its only a couple bucks. (If you are not comfortable about giving out home address, use business address.)

2. I will ship the book to you.

Here's the rule....

1. You must read the entire book.

2. You must leave a comment anywhere in the book on what you think of the book. Sign your first name or the name of your blog.

3. You must have a picture taken of yourself and book. (Not in the shower, please!) The picture must be forward to me (via email) where I will be posting on my blog.

4. The person who is reading must set up a post and find out who wants to be the next in line to read.

5. Mail the book using Media Rate at the Post office. It is only a couple bucks. Around 8 quarters. It beats $24.99 to read the book.

Repeat the step until the 50th blogger gets to the book. The book then must be returned. What do I get? I get a lot of love from you guys! I will be getting 50 comments about the book (not me) and I will leave it on my bookshelves with 50 pictures of bloggers. How cool is that?

Let the fun begins to the next 50 bloggers who will be having so much fun reading the book.

It's first come, first serve basis whoever responded to my post - first. Good Luck and Happy Reading!

Hat off....

2008-08-24T10:00:00.004-04:00

Hat off to Michelle!

My today's post is a way to celebrate one of my blogger friend, Michelle, who has completed her 27th consecutive days of running. Unfortunately, Michelle's running streak has come to a screeching halt. We have been in touch constantly for the last few days via email. I have noticed that she has become quite sick. She has been coughing up a storm for the last few days. Her fever has shot up to 101 degrees last night. She wanted so bad to get back to running. I have advised her..... hold....hold...hold... I just got an email right at this minute as I am typing this..

This just in.... Michelle has snapped out of this and went for her run this morning. She has completed easy and relaxing 2.3 miles. Has she lost her mind? She is now into her 28th consecutive days of running. It is evidently that she is not giving up. Hat off for her effort to continue with her running streak. Boy, I tell ya, she rocks! Looks like she is on her way to end this on August 31st or maybe she will continue for the rest of September.

Putting up for adoption....

2008-08-22T14:20:00.003-04:00

This has been a very difficult time in my life. You see. I've had so many sleepless night. I have been tossing and turning. I am having a huge separation anxiety at this time. My wife has been very supportive of me for the last several days. I have been sobbing. Now, this is a time for me to take it like a man. I have to let go of my dear Garmin Forerunner 201 to someone that might need it. It is time for me to say "Goodbye" since Garmie, Jr is ready to take on the world. Garmie, Jr has been so good to me. I have nurtured him. I have pampered him. I have shown him so many places like Colorado and Hawaii. He never gave me hell. If you or anyone you know that would love to take care of Garmie, Jr. He is being put up for adoption.

Garmie, Jr - born 6/15/2005

If you or anyone you know that would love to take care of Garmie, Jr, please go to the website and sign up for adoption via eBay.

A taste of Fall....

2008-08-21T11:03:00.017-04:00

Believe it or not, I still haven't had a chance to play with Wii Fit since I have purchased last Sunday. My girls are so hooked to it. They even know how to use the system and I don't. How in the world could they understand how to use the system without reading the manual?

Yesterday, the weather was sensational! It was heaven! It was phenomenal! I could go on with many adjectives about the weather yesterday. I have realized that my girls spend a majority of time with Wii system. I have decided to turn off the Wii and air them out. It was GREAT. The girls and I went for a walk from my house to the bagel place for lunch......

Walking to Bagel Place in Little Silver
Walking across the Park
Eating at Grandma's Bagel shop.
Walked from the Bagel place to the Park...
Head over to supermarket to do some food racing shopping!
Head over to Library to check out some books.
Checking to make sure my blog is still there using Wi-Fi at the Library.
Am getting weepy by looking at the picture of Marcy and her mother.
Making sure Jess is safe and sound especially with Fay thing.
Check Beachrunner why he loves running!
I wonder why Erin took this picture.

I wish I could show you all the feeds I have in my iPod touch. It is pretty neat. Hope you all have a terrific day.

New Toy

2008-08-17T16:37:00.004-04:00

I will have to make this very short. My two girls are fighting over a new toy. Try to guess what the new toy is....

In the meantime, I went out for my run this morning as usual. Number 8! My garmie, Joost, gave me hell of a hard time. As I was running, Joost gave me a bad sign. My watch said "LOW BATTERY". I was like "WTF Joost, don't give me crap here." I take the heat. I didn't realized that I haven't give him the juice he needed. After my run, I had to give Joost a CPR by recharging him. I've felt like a surgeon doing a delicate surgery. It was quite easy just to clamp the recharger on him. I think Joost felt the love when I performed the surgery this morning.

I had to use Earth Google and my calculation today on my run. I ran 5.40 miles. Untimed. Based on calories burned, I have placed it roughly at 550 +/-.

Now, any idea what you have in mind what the girls are fighting over.....

Gotta go.. my girls are wrestling now over it.

Streaking....

2008-08-15T18:56:00.007-04:00

I am proud to say that I have a new member joining in for the streaking contest. I want to formally introduce a new RBF who is joining me and Michelle for the streaking contest. Don't get me wrong, I am not talking about going out there in full nudity while running.

Repeat: This is not me and Michelle !

The name of the RBF is Rahn and he hails from the Peachtree State. He used to live in Seattle. For some reason, he and his wife moved to Georgia. He is also on a mission at this time. As of today, he has run for 12 consecutive days. He is trying to avoid being chicked by Michelle.

Keep this in mind, I hope to continue my streak until August 31st. If I can do it, it will be for 22 consecutive days. Michelle is aiming to continue her streak till August 31st. If she can do it, she will make this as her 34th consecutive days. Rahn's mission is to keep going after August 31st in an attempt to beat Michelle. Let see about that! Anyone care to join the mission till August 31st. There's only 16 more days left!

My thoughts.....

2008-08-13T13:50:00.004-04:00

I am all done with the reading. After doing a lot of thinking, I have decided not to do a book review. I know.. I know.. I know you are so overly pissed off. You are probably thinking 'WTF, Why did I have to come to his shitty blog and not getting a book review from him." Believe me, you will thank me. If I have to say one word about this book, it will ruin your day! However, I can tell you based on my opinion. Lo and behold, you are going to get opinion from me. It is a terrific book! In my opinion, I think Ultramarathon Man was the best book I've read. I cannot say that I was so disappointed. I was thrilled. He never ceased to amaze me. In this book, I have laughed. I had tears coming down. The book was quite informative. Not only Dean is a hero to me, all the runners in this world are the heroes to me. Go out and shell your twenty bucks for this book, you will be glad you did. Lastly, this book will make your motivation climb a lot more notches.

There is one more thing that I would like to add. It has been my privilege to run with Dean and other runners on November 4, 2006. It was #49. I remember the day so vividly as if I have run with him yesterday. I have signed up the last 13.1 miles to run with him. It was my objective to share him my quick story on why I am running. I knew I couldn't tell him with my long story. I wanted him to know that my brother who had a huge passion for running for many years. My brother has run in marathons and did triathlons before cancer took his life away. I wanted him to know that he was a valiant fighter who never complained of one thing in life. He departed at the age of 42. It is my dream to carry his dream. Of course, it's all about running. I would have done this in sign language and show the beauty of this. I never got to. The reason for this was that he was mobbed as he was running. There were several runners yakking with Dean and I didn't have the courage to break in it and to share with him. I have decided to let it go and let myself enjoy the opportunity.

After I ran the race, the only thing matter to me was meeting him and to get the picture taken. I do remember one thing so strongly as I was waiting in line. After I read this book, I've realized one thing that took place when I was standing there. I remember Dean wanted to stay there a little bit longer but the guy on the right (It has to be Hobbs.) He was telling him that they needed to go and get ready for the trip to NYC. I remembered Dean was telling "Just a few more minutes please. Look at these people waiting" to this guy wearing dark sunglasses. I could tell that he wasn't too happy. I was like "Don't go. Don't go. Please. Just stay there till I get my picture taken." It was only a matter of minutes. I was "Whew, I've made it." However, like Dean, I felt bad for those people behind me that didn't make it. All I can tell you, Dean is one heck of a terrific guy with a big heart. He is a very compassionate individual who deeply care about people in life and the Earth we live in.

BRING IT ON !!!!

2 down, 20 to go.....

2008-08-11T12:49:00.009-04:00

Here's my recap...

As of this summer, this was the coolest temperature I've run into this morning. I am still in love with my iPod as I was listening to a lot of good stuff. Here's my playlist that I've listened to this morning.

Strength Through Wounding by AFI
Love Like Winter by AFI
Tears Don't Fall by Bullet for My Valentine
Let The Bodies Hit the Floor by Drowning Pool (Thanks to Erin for recommending this one.)
All the Small Things by Blink 182
Violet Hill by Coldplay
Zombie by The Cranberries
Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day
Shadowplay by The Killers
No New Tale to Tell by Love and Rockets
Welcome to the Black Parade by My Chemical Romance
This is The Day by The The

So Michelle, How are you feeling since now it is your 15th consecutive day? I was wondering how you were doing this morning!

P.S. - I am almost done with my book.

1 down, 21 to go....

2008-08-10T09:53:00.006-04:00

You may think this is some kind of "Spur of the Moment" thing. This is not some kind of crazy stunt I am pulling. This is just for purely enjoyment - fun! This is not what I called "Battle of the Sex." Hmmm, let's call this "Wipeout for Runners". Just kidding! I've subscribed to 94 different blogs (and still counting). One of the blog called "Runnin' Down A Dream". Her name is Michelle and she is from Brooklyn (Coney Island). As a matter of fact, I live near Atlantic Highlands. From the cliff, I am able to see Coney Island. It is just right across the Lower Bay (near Raritan Bay). It is about 10 nautical miles from Coney Island to Atlantic Highlands. Now back to where I was, she has been running for 14th consecutive days. I've been a virtual cheerleader and she have asked me if I wanted to join for the last remaining 22 consecutive days of running. Wooohooo! Hell, why not? Game's on! Bring it on! Michelle and I are going to have fun. We have made it clear on one thing. If I am down or hurting, I am to take a day off. Same thing apply to Michelle. That's the end of it. I can always swallow my pride and knowingly that I had fun. We are not bashing our egotistical thing here. We are doing this for FUN and to enjoy running. No race. Just complete more than 5 miles per day till the end of August. Log in it. Cheer for us and/or join us, too! The rule is simple... Log in 5+ miles per day for the next 21 days till August 31st. Keep in mind, this is Michelle's 14th consecutive. If she can do this till August 31st, it means that she will make this as her 36th consecutive days of running.

1 down, 21 to go....

*I will be updating every few days on my blog to keep you posted.*

Off I go and take my shower.....

A picture is worth a thousand words.....

2008-08-09T19:10:00.001-04:00

Las Vegas, Final Chapter

2008-08-06T11:23:00.007-04:00

My brother in law just returned from Miami Beach. He has send me more pictures. I did promise you guys that I would show you some more pictures from Las Vegas. I am sorry to say this but this will disappoint you greatly. I haven't done anything extraordinare in Las Vegas. Nothing really happens in Vegas that should have stayed in Vegas. We all know that Vegas is a Sin City. Aren't we all a sinner??? What's the first thing we think of Las Vegas....

> Gamble - I would have to say that I have gambled about 50 buckaroos. In return? Zippo. The casino is smiling. *whimpering* That is an equivalent of buying eight 6-pack of beer.

> Drug - There's plenty of it in Las Vegas. My drug of choice is running and drinking. Amen!

> Sex - Who wants to stay up after midnight to get into the Cathouse bar? Who likes the idea of being in a sauna-like bar with hundreds of patrons sweating profusely? It gives me the creep just to think guys and dolls are breathing hot air on to you and touching your skin with their sweat. Not my idea but there were plenty of good action in the swimming pool. Look, they even have topless swimming area in one section at the Mandalay Bay. However, it comes with a hefty price. $40 buckaroos to go into the area. Dang! I shouldn't have gamble in the first place.

Me in the kiddie pool!
Having my first Vinnano Drink!
Get the drift? Air was so DRY it makes your bogger feel like a rock!
My personal wine cellar!

I wish !!! Actually, this is about 3-4 stories tall wine cellar in a restaurant called Aureole at the Mandalay Bay. Incredible!

My last day! I had to leave that night for my red eye flight back to NJ.

What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas

2008-07-28T16:12:00.010-04:00

Sorry to break the news... I cannot divulge any information on what I've been doing in Vegas. Maybe I will let a little for the future post.... In the meantime, I am home safely. I took a red-eye flight back home. I got into Newark at 5:15 this morning with a bloodshot eyes. The good part of Vegas was that I did some running on the famous strip. Here are some pictures... My brother in law took a lot of pictures of me. He just flew to Miami for his extended vacation from Las Vegas. As soon as he gets back home, he will send me more pictures and I will be posting in the near future. Here's the photo album...

On the AirTrain to Newark Airport
Preflight cocktail (just warming up!)
Continental Flight #669 (EWR - LAS)
Goodbye Big Apple!
En route to the City that Never Sleeps!
Grand Canyon
Is that a mirage in the desert?
This is Paradise !

Stay tuned for more pictures in the future posting..... Here's the observed weather in Las Vegas below....

July 24th > 107 degrees
July 25th > 108 degrees
July 26th > 96 degrees
July 27th > 105 degrees

Remember folks, it was *expletive* DRY as a martini! Stay tuned, folks!

Camping Trip!

2008-07-23T13:01:00.009-04:00

I am having way too much fun lately. I am having so much fun that I don't get around to my computer these days. I took my wife and my two kids on a camping trip last weekend to Quarryville, Pennsylvania. If you live near that area, I would highly recommend you to take your family on a camping trip. Check this out !!!

We've stayed in a cabin just like this one....

It was a blessing that the cabin where I've stayed was equipped with an air conditioning. I was in heaven (and also spoiled!). It was quite HOT outside!!! However, my girls spend the majority of the time in the water park. I also had a terrific opportunity to run through the Amish countryside. My biggest regret.... I didn't bring a camera along! WTF was I thinking??? However, I did bring my Garmie.

Now folks.... I will be away for awhile and won't be back till next week. I will leave a little guessing game for you. This is where I will be staying....

I think it's too obvious, huh?

Change is good !!!!

2008-07-12T13:30:00.011-04:00

I am having recurring nightmare with Nike Zoom Vomero 3. It's more like Nike Zoom Vomitero 3. In the very beginning, I *heart* Zoom Vomero running shoes. I was raving to everybody that I know in the running community how wonderful it is. Toward the second week, I was having problem especially with my right ankle. It was getting more and more painful. WTF? I went back to RoadRunners to find out what causes my right ankle to have severe pain. A running specialist took a look at it and said that my right ankle was overpronated.

It was determined that Nike Zoom Vomero 3 does not have support. Go figures! My left ankle seemed to be fine but not for my right ankle. I've told the specialist that I love the cushy feeling inside. She suggested that I switch to Nike Air Equalon +2 to see how I like it. Change is good. I am now officially going to start the Air Equalon +2 starting tomorrow. Right now, my right ankle is quite sore from the long run yesterday.
As I was trying to recover from the nasty pain in my right ankle, I went over to see how my daughter, Erin, did with her swimming yesterday. She looks like she is on the way to become an Olympic swimmer for 2016. When you watch the video, my daughter is on the right (pink swimsuit).

While I am nursing my right ankle, I am using this icy cold bottle to my right ankle which feels pretty good. I am amazed that I didn't even bother to drink it.

One more thing... Frayed Laces left an interesting comments in my recent posting about how I do with the "sweatproofing" of my hearing aid. This is her comment....

"What about wrapping a condom around it? Then it can double-duty during sex."

My answer to Frayed Laces..... Beside the sex part, I have to admit that I did use the condom. My wife was very impressed when I bought a boxful of condom. She had thought we were going to have a very romantic evening. She was going to get the candles out. "Honey, put the candles away. The condoms are for my hearing aid." She was aghast. She said "Ted..WTF? How can you have sex with your hearing aid?" Look.. Look.. Look.. let me explain.

I took the condom and did put it over my hearing aid. I went for my run. One small problem, my skin behind my ear turned like a beet. It smelled horrible as I was running. The sweating along with the condom behind my ear wasn't what you were expecting. Imagine a driver seeing a condom hanging out behind my ear !!! Not a pretty scene !

I better wrap this up and drink up my beer. It is getting warmed. Have a great weekend!

iPod update

2008-07-08T14:41:00.008-04:00

I've been meaning to give you an update on iPod. Don't get me wrong. iPod is a terrific device to use for when running, biking, walking or having sex. I love it. Since I got a new hearing aid device which enable me to use iPod while running, I am coming down with a small problem. My Nucleus Freedom model is water resistance. It does not mean I can use my hearing aid while swimming or taking shower. Forget it ! Earlier in the spring, it was FABULOUS. The temperature was mostly between 40 to 60 degrees which is perfect for me to use iPod. I am having one small problem. My problem is the summer temperature. If the temperature is 70 degrees or higher, forget it. I am sweating profusely. When I take my hearing aid out, it is literally dripping like a Niagra Fall over my hearing aid. I came up with one solution. Wrap the plastic cover around it to prevent the sweat and moisture from touching my hearing aid. My only gripe is that it is such a pain in the ass. Lo and behold, I am not going to cry a river. I will take it like a man. If it's too hot, I will not use my iPod. *whimpering* If the temperature anywhere under 60 degrees, I will use my iPod while running (with plastic cover). Its not the end of the world if its too hot. There are times when I need the silence during my run.

A. Naked Hearing Aid (cochlear implant)

B. Plastic Sleeve over the unit.

C. Two layers of plastic around the unit holding with a rubber band.

Now, some of you were quite ~~impatience~~ patience with the naming of my new Garmin 405. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to announce my new Garmin 405......

Now, you might be scratching your head and saying "WTF !!! Ted, Are you out of your mind?" Viper - I have been laying off on some shit already. It is not that I am drunk or stoned. Joost is a Dutch name meaning Fair and Just.

Hope you all have a good week!

Song of the week: Violet Hill by Coldplay

My new kicks.....

2008-07-01T15:23:00.006-04:00

I have a major announcement to make. I am officially retiring my Saucony Triumph today. My old Saucony Triumph has been good to me since February. After logging a million miles with Triumph, I've bought a new kick. I have realized that I have been loyal to Saucony for the past three years that I wanted to try something different. Before you read down, there are three things in life I love the most.

They are..... (drum rolls puuhleeze). (1) Spongebob, (2) Simba and (3) my newest kick, Nike Zoom Vomero 3. You have no idea that I am on Cloud 9 with my newest kick. Truthfully, disregard Spongebob and Simba. It was just a stupid joke. However, the three best things in life are my wonderful and supportive wife, my two healthiest daughters and ~~new Porsche Boxster~~ my dog, Starbuck (chocolate lab).
Believe it or not, I am quite impressed with my Nike Zoom Vomero 3. After running in Saucony for so long, this is quite different. One thing that appeals me the most is the extra cushioning. Outstanding ! Its like running on CLOUD ! It's quite S-E-N-S-A-T-I-O-N-A-L !

One last note, I am still *heart* my 405. No name yet! I did an experiement today. I did something different. For every mile that I ran today, I took a one minute walking break to see what my bpm was like. It's pretty neat-OH !

My average bpm was 148. You can see that my bpm dropped when I took a one minute walking break for every mile. BTW, it was 80 degrees and humid this morning when I went out for my run. I was sweating profusely like a drunken pig.

Have a GREAT rest of the week !

405 Rocks !!!!

2008-06-29T19:24:00.009-04:00

Listen all of you.... 405 is one cool shintz ! It's amazing. Unbelievable !!! I was amazed how quickly I've learn to use it. Whooa.. wait a second, I still haven't master this thing yet. Within a week or 2, I will be a PRO in using 405.

1. I still haven't decide what to name my 405.
2. The HR monitor is really neat-OH !!!
3. My Bezel is very sensitive !!! I am getting antsy with this thing. (I am not referring to my private part.)
4. I have come to learn and to embrace my 405 with respect.

I took out 405 for my test yesterday and it did meet my expectation. No need to return it. 405, you are all mine.

Here's my first official result of my run yesterday with 405. My HR was 70 when I started out my run. Looked like my average bpm was 153. Sweet !!! I need to study what's the normal bpm for running. It was kind of warm and muggy. One negative - I've felt like there was a boa constrictor around my chest. Kind of tight!

CHECK THIS OUT !!!

This is what I predict for the next Garmin 505.......

Stay tuned.....

2008-06-27T20:11:00.006-04:00

Hang in there... I am still kicking... I am still breathing, just barely. I am still running... I am drowning... I don't mean literally drowning in the water. It is just my two girls are clobbering at me at this moment. This has been a crazy week. My girls have been wrestling with me non-stop all week long. The girls are out of school. I just wish they would stay in school for another week. My wife normally works from home but she has been out all week due to a stoopid training.

This week highlight.....

celebrated 12th Anniversary with my wife last Sunday. We dined at a nice rest called Red. I had seared peppercorn tuna which was mah-veh-lous!
Girls out of school this week. Grrrrrr!!!
Took the girls to see a movie called "Kung Fu - Panda"
Managed to run a little this week. I am quite fortunate that my sitter was able to watch my girls. $15.00 per hour!
The BEST highlight of the week was getting my new Garmin 405. Wahooooooooo!!!! I haven't had a chance to test it yet. I am now officially retiring my Garmin Forerunner 201. He is now resting on a lounge chair sipping margarita.

I should be able to test my newest toy tomorrow (depending on the weather!) A severe thunderstorm is on the way. I am just hopeful that it will go somewhere else. Right now, my wife is bugging me to find Wii-Fit. It is time for me to get off and start hunting for a new Wii-Fit this weekend. FYI - I will try my best to read your blog this weekend. I know.. I know.. I know I am terribly behind right now.

One more thing, What should I call my new Garmin 405?

Have a GREAT weekend!!!

Highlight of the Week

2008-06-22T15:37:00.005-04:00

There is not very much to report from the Jersey shore. However, I wanted to recap one of the best highlight I've had this past week. My brother came down to the shore for his business trip he had to make. It is not very often that he would come to New Jersey for business. He stayed at my house for one night. I have asked him if he wants to bike with me while I go for my run. How cool is that to have a brother come along? The weather was sensational last week. Sunny. 60-65 degrees in the morning. It was a Kodak-moment !!! I ran 7 miles last Wednesday morning while my brother was biking.

My brother took a pix of me as I was crossing the Gooseneck Bridge.

My brother on Gooseneck Bridge overlooking Shrewsbury River.

I will be making a trip to Ohio to visit my family in August. As a matter of fact, I do look forward to another outing with my brother. My brother emailed me last week that he know of two terrific places to run in Ohio.

Off the point, I have been adding a lot of songs to my iPod. I am still getting the kick out of it.

Song of the week: Right Here, Right Now by Fatboy Slim.

My new invention.....

2008-06-16T19:15:00.005-04:00

Move over Leonardo Da Vinci, I am coming down with a new invention. I have to say that I am a Genius. As you know, I am predicting for a very long HOT summer. I got back to my drawing board on way to keep me and many other runners out there very cool in the summertime. Take a look at my drawing.....

(click to enlarge)

> Lightweight Fabric-Shade (SPF90) which protect the runner from the sun. The shade is hoisted on your shoulder. Optional: Install solar cells on top that can be used to power the fan and also iPod.
> Backpack to carry 3 gallons of water. The water travels through the tube up to the four spray nozzles underneath the shade. The nozzle spray like a mist onto your face as you run.
> You can push the 50 lbs. fan along to keep you cool as you go for your run.

How cool is that? I can't wait to get this thing patent. Soon enough, you will see million of runners in all kind of colorful shades and pushing the fan along during a hot and sultry summer. The temperature will feel like a balmy 60 degrees from the shade, fan and the mist out in the 100 degree heat.

Anyone care to be the first to try this product?

Happy Birthday

2008-06-14T11:10:00.007-04:00

Today is a very important day to me. It is like having a double celebration today. The Flag Day and my wife's 44th Birthday. It is a wonderful and special privilege to be running with my wife today. There was a race called George Sheehan Classic Race this morning. Actually, the nicest thing about this race is that is only 1 miles from my house to the starting line. My wife and I didn't have to worry about driving and looking for a parking lot. We rode on the tandem bike right to the starting line.

To make this short and sweet, it was a smashing success. It seemed to be more crowded this year compared to last year. I ran in 40:12 and my wife ran exactly 1 hour. Get this, my wife hasn't been trained at all. I gave her a big BIRTHDAY kiss at the finish line !!!!

How cool is that to get a medal on her birthday?

After the race, my wife and I went home. My wife was drinking Gatorade in the kitchen. Of course, I was in my birthday suit with the medal around my neck signing "Happy Birthday to you!" to my precious wife. To this very day, I am so proud of my wife for all the wonderful accomplishments she has made in life.

Happy Birthday KitKat, I love you so much!

Paraskavedekatriaphobia

2008-06-13T06:16:00.006-04:00

Anyone out there have this kind of phobia that you know of?

If you are wondering...WTF? What's the hell is Paraskavedekatriaphobia? Take a deep breath, it will only happen ONCE this year. Only one time this year !!!!

Paraskevi - Friday

Dekatris - Thirteen

Phobia - Fear

I am terrified of running on this kind of day. There are too many cracks on sidewalk. If you step on the cracks, you get bad luck. Black cat running in front of you, on your running path. Go back! Two guys carrying mirror crashed in front of you, you get 7 years bad luck. I am calling for a "National Day OFF for Runners". Just one day off !!!

Take heart everyone, I am just kidding !!! Go out and have fun on your run. Have a GREAT weekend !!! This is all non-sense. Just so plain silly. Just one little cautious for all of you runner, it wouldn't hurt a little just to look back to make sure Jason with the chain saw is not coming after you.

Running Hot

2008-06-12T19:58:00.006-04:00

Listen up boys and girls... I am relieved. The HEAT WAVE is officially over. I have to admit. I couldn't go out for my run in this brutal weather. I am a chicken. I went over to gym to run on the treadmill during the heat wave period.

When I got home, I was flipping thru the pages of Forbes Life magazine. It is a supplement issue that comes with Forbes magazine. My jaw just dropped when I was reading an article about an ultra marathoner who ran across the Sahara Desert. 4,300 miles. Senegal to Egypt. The three ultra marathoners ran for 111 days in enduring blazing heat, near freezing nights, sandstorm and threat of minefields. After reading it, I've felt like a dipshit who couldn't run out in the heat wave for a minute.

(click to enlarge the article)

Next race: George Sheehan Classic 5 miles race, Saturday, June 14, 2008 @ 8:30 a.m.

Runnin' with the Devil

2008-06-09T19:19:00.011-04:00

*turning the volume way way way up to the tune of Van Halen, Runnin' with the Devils*

(Ah, yeah-ah!)
Runnin' with the devil
(Hold on, hold on, I'm runnin'! Aah, yeah!)
Runnin' with the devil
(Uh! Uh! Come on, one more time!)

Ok - I need to turn the volume down. Two important things came up.

#1 - My RBF , Erin, of Shore Jersey has left a comment in my recent posting asking me if I was on a strike or something. Holy smokes !!! Time flies. I didn't realized that I haven't been blogging for awhile. Thanks to Erin for the hint and to get me started on the blogging. This is what I have been doing for the last few days......

Now the second thing....... Marci just ~~tasered~~ tagged me yesterday. After reading the questions, I was like. Let's kick a$$ and I look forward to tagging five new bloggers on this one.

1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?

Buuuwwhahaha, moi running 10 years ago. Fat chance - I wasn't running at all! Lets see what I was doing exactly on June 9, 1998. I was probably nibbling on potato chips, dishing ice cream and chugging beers on sofa.

2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?

That's easy!!! My best running experience was running in the Amsterdam Marathon last October. Not in New Amsterdam, New York. I meant Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

My worst running experience was last October in the Long Beach Island 18 miler race. It was HOT. (It was the same weekend as Chicago Marathon).

3. Why do you run?

To save money from therapy. Running is my Prozac! It makes me feel good. I am also running in a fitting tribute to my brother who loved running. I have a mantra - If nothing kills me makes me a stronger person !!! Truthfully, running makes me feel good about everything in life. Life is good! We should take for granted that we are here to enjoy life to the fullest.

4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?

My best advice I have given about running is not to worry about the time. (Same concept as Marci). My favorite quote is "Go slow and steady will get you there!"

I don't like to give worst piece of advice. My ego is not the size of Texas. I don't like making someone small if I were to give someone a bad advice.

5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.

I think most RBF knows that I am Deaf and I am currently using cochlear implant. There is an interesting part that my father told me a long time ago. I am not sure if I buy this. My father told me that my great-great-great Grandfather founded Yale University. He stated that I came from Starr Generation. I will need to dig this and see if this claim is true.

Now, here's the best part. Who do I tag now? After careful consideration, I am tagging...

1. Erin
2. ShoreTurtle
3. Michelle
4. JavaMom
5. Viper

St. Andrews Run

2008-05-29T15:07:00.021-04:00

I am currently staying at the Marriott's Manor Court at Ford's Colony in Williamsburg. It is really a beautiful area. They have 3, 4 or 6 miles running trail which is quite nice. I have mostly stick with 4 miles run for the last three days. It is named because of St. Andrews Drive. There are beautiful homes. Beautiful golf course. Beautiful woods. Beautiful trails. Just about everything is beautiful. I am going to miss this area. I would definitely come back again. Below is an image of the map and the pictures. I would highly recommend anyone to come out to Williamsburg for R&R.

(click image for enlargement)

#1 Starting Point
Nice ample shade !!!

#2 Just after Edinburgh Road (see #2 on the map)

#3 Makes me wanna stop and just look at this.

#4 Guys prepping up the greens for the Golfers!

#5 (see map) Community Pool by the running trail. I was quite tempting to jump in the pool.

#6 More golf course. I am never too fond of playing golf. Why chase after a little white ball for?

#7 How do they keep it so beautiful? I wish this was like in my backyard.

#8 That is one big fountain to drink from?

#9 Love those running trail. I wish they have this back in my hometown.

#10 The last leg around before going back to the Marriott.

#11 Where's the duckies?

#12 Traffic circle leading to golf course and Marriott.

#13 Ending Point (see map) The building is where I am staying.