Monday, January 22, 2007

BEARS to the SUPERBOWL!


The city is going crazy! People in and around the "Windy City" are a bit shocked that it's actually happening. It is very exciting!

Winter Training & Gear Review


Winter is a great change to training. I grew up in CA (not into Triathlon at all), now living here outside Chicago with actual seasons, I enjoy the change. It forces you to do different training, and take a break. I really enjoy running in the snow and while snowing, it is very peaceful. This year I have a new peice of gear that is great "YakTrax." They are snow chains for your shoes. This has removed the only downside of snowy running, slippery footing. Now with more "sure footed-ness" I am enjoying the winter running that much more. Now it's time to get serious and get my 2007 race schedule in writing. It will help get me more motivated, for now it's just me and my little running buddy.

Sunday, January 14, 2007

BEARS win!!!!


I am wishing, hoping, praying the team will go all the way!!!

Birthdays are still FUN!


When you're FIVE! My daughter just turned five, and kid parties are crazy, loud,chaotic, and pure fun! It's great to see all the kids have fun, eat cake, and go crazy. It's a great time to reflect on the past year and all the wonderful "mile stones" conquered. One thing that made me happy was that when we asked what she wanted she said "nothing." Important fact; her birthday is 3 weeks after Christmas, so it makes a bit more sense. She was just as excited with the cool birthday cards, as the presents. I am so proud of her for being such a great kid! My kid... We are so blessed.
P.S. My wife made a great cake!

Thursday, January 04, 2007

"Rocky" repeats! & Travel running.


I travel for a living, and do almost all my running when I'm "on the road." Some cities are great for running, and some just plain suck! I really dislike treadmills, so I always go outside. The great cities are easy...the sucky one take a bit more effort. You need to make up your own small loops and do them 3 or 4 times, and shoot for negative splits! Anything to spice it up! When traveling you don't need to limit yourself to the hotel gym and it's treadmill. So this week I was in Philadelphia with enough time to run, and I was looking forward to seeing what was out there. I made up the "Rocky" repeats! I ran from my hotel to the Philadelphia Muesem of Art and did the "Rocky" stairs 5 times. These stairs made famous from the original "Rocky" movie. I then continued down to "Boathouse Row" and then on to "Fairview Park" where there was a nice running trail. On my return I did the stairs another 5 times, then back to the hotel. If you travel get out there, run and check out the area! First check with the hotel concierge for running route suggestions, and also check if areas should be avoided (not safe). Keep good track of your route to keep from getting lost, write it down maybe, also your cell phone with the hotels number for help. Safety cash may be good for an emergency cab ride back if you get too lost, or are doing a long run.