Typically I am not a running in the rain guy. Yesterday I headed out, and it was a cloudy, misty day. I actually liked it. The trail I was on was relatively quiet. I heard the birds doing a lot of chirping. I think rain can sometimes make the trees and the plants look greener, and trust me, everything looked very green yesterday.
The run itself was a pretty good one. I did about 3.1 miles. I left the Garmin at home, and was glad I did. It's easy to be a slave to the Garmin while running. What was nice was I really got to rely on my my running and sense of pace to guide me through the run. It was pretty freeing.
I have often that we need runs where the watch stays home. Just focus on the run, and not the time. We get too hung up on miles and pace, and not enough on how our body feels as we move through the space. I recommend a watchless run.
This was a good solid run. I felt good this morning, and know I could do another run tomorrow.
Charlie
Monday, April 29, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Watching the Marathon
It was a bright, cold morning on Saturday in Carmel, Indiana. I headed out to cheer for friends at the Carmel Marathon and Half Marathon. My initial thoughts this morning were what would the race be like, since we are still raw from what happened at last week's marathon. I have cheered people on at this race for three years now, but this one was different.
For starters, there were more people out viewing this race, at least in my spot. Usually it's me, a few co-workers, and whoever drops by. This morning, there were family and loved ones of runners, neighborhood folks, and just people interested(like me), and it seemed like more people came out.
Of course people came out to support their runners, but I also believe people came out because of the tragic events of last week in Boston.
As I watched to really fast, and the really not so fast, I thought, "Why would someone want to not only disrupt an event like this, but how could you hurt people who are just going out for a run?" When I run, it's my chance to get out, be in the world, forget about troubles, and just be. How could someone deny that opportunity to someone?
The people watching were full of smiles, cheers and cowbells. Ok....I had the cowbell. One little boy asked why I had it. I told him, because at some point a runner would come by and ask for "more cowbell." Moments later that is exactly what happened, and the boy laughed.
I always make a point of thank the police for being out on the course, but I could tell as the runners did that on Saturday, it took a much deeper meaning. Spectators were also thanking the officer near us. These men and women do something I could not do, and I think it's important to thank them for being out there.
This wonderful feeling was marred later in my store, when I spoke to a man who came in. We are selling shirts with proceeds going to The One Fund http://onefundboston.org . As he made his purchase, he told me how angry he was about the bombings at the marathon. It's what he said next that bothered me. "We need to go out and kill all of them, before they kill us."
No my friend, we don't. Terrorists want to change our lives. Yes, we want to fight terrorism, but we don't go after people on our own and kill people. We are then no better than they are. I looked at him, point blank and said, "Sir I just sell shoes." That was my way of letting him know, I can't have that discussion with him.
I didn't let his words diminish the wonderful experience I had that morning. In fact, I felt energized to go for a run....now if I could just find the time.
Charlie
For starters, there were more people out viewing this race, at least in my spot. Usually it's me, a few co-workers, and whoever drops by. This morning, there were family and loved ones of runners, neighborhood folks, and just people interested(like me), and it seemed like more people came out.
Of course people came out to support their runners, but I also believe people came out because of the tragic events of last week in Boston.
As I watched to really fast, and the really not so fast, I thought, "Why would someone want to not only disrupt an event like this, but how could you hurt people who are just going out for a run?" When I run, it's my chance to get out, be in the world, forget about troubles, and just be. How could someone deny that opportunity to someone?
The people watching were full of smiles, cheers and cowbells. Ok....I had the cowbell. One little boy asked why I had it. I told him, because at some point a runner would come by and ask for "more cowbell." Moments later that is exactly what happened, and the boy laughed.
I always make a point of thank the police for being out on the course, but I could tell as the runners did that on Saturday, it took a much deeper meaning. Spectators were also thanking the officer near us. These men and women do something I could not do, and I think it's important to thank them for being out there.
This wonderful feeling was marred later in my store, when I spoke to a man who came in. We are selling shirts with proceeds going to The One Fund http://onefundboston.org . As he made his purchase, he told me how angry he was about the bombings at the marathon. It's what he said next that bothered me. "We need to go out and kill all of them, before they kill us."
No my friend, we don't. Terrorists want to change our lives. Yes, we want to fight terrorism, but we don't go after people on our own and kill people. We are then no better than they are. I looked at him, point blank and said, "Sir I just sell shoes." That was my way of letting him know, I can't have that discussion with him.
I didn't let his words diminish the wonderful experience I had that morning. In fact, I felt energized to go for a run....now if I could just find the time.
Charlie
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Thoughts on a Tragedy
A marathon is many things. First of all it's an endurance event. The race serves as a test of what the human body can do. Second, it's a communal event. Runners from all over gather for the not-so-simple task of running 26.2 miles. We may all have our own plan to complete the race, but we share a common bond.
If you have never been in a marathon, or another distance race, it has a very communal feel. People are smiling, laughing, talking. I have talked to strangers at a start line, and all we can do is beam and talk about how excited we are to be running.
Sometimes we run with our friends. My fond memories of last year's Monumental Half Marathon, running with my friend Bob(a.k.a Pennsy) still bring a smile to my face. Sometimes we are competing, but know that it is a friendly competition, be it against fellow runners, or the course.
Major marathons are where the world comes together for the simple act of running. There are few races out there which demonstrate the camaraderie, community and love for running as the Boston Marathon. That feeling changed around 3pm yesterday afternoon.
Someone, or some people, had to invade the feeling of goodwill, support and love, for what I can assume is a hateful reason.
As I watched the scene unfold via internet yesterday, I was reminded of a day twelve years ago, when the world changed. I lived in the Washington, D.C. area on 9/11. I was on my way to work, and saw the plane coming in, which would hit the Pentagon moments later. I remember the shock and fear I felt that day. I also remember how eerily quiet the city was in the days that followed. It changed that city.
The people of Boston are changed now.
As we learn more about the people who died, or were severely injured, we have to summon up the good feelings that races like this promote, and use those feelings to fight back the hate that wants to invade our lives. We can't let the darkness of this event define us. Yes, the people of Boston will change with this, but they can also remain vigilant in keeping their marathon, and their way of life strong in the sense of community.
My heart is broken over this tragedy. I know there are many things people are doing to show their support to the people of Boston and the running community. Wearing a race shirt or medal is a visible way to do this. I am dedicating my next run to survivors, and those who died.
I am grateful my friends there weren't harmed.
Today is a day to reflect and pray. Tomorrow we begin to move forward.
Charlie
If you have never been in a marathon, or another distance race, it has a very communal feel. People are smiling, laughing, talking. I have talked to strangers at a start line, and all we can do is beam and talk about how excited we are to be running.
Sometimes we run with our friends. My fond memories of last year's Monumental Half Marathon, running with my friend Bob(a.k.a Pennsy) still bring a smile to my face. Sometimes we are competing, but know that it is a friendly competition, be it against fellow runners, or the course.
Major marathons are where the world comes together for the simple act of running. There are few races out there which demonstrate the camaraderie, community and love for running as the Boston Marathon. That feeling changed around 3pm yesterday afternoon.
Someone, or some people, had to invade the feeling of goodwill, support and love, for what I can assume is a hateful reason.
As I watched the scene unfold via internet yesterday, I was reminded of a day twelve years ago, when the world changed. I lived in the Washington, D.C. area on 9/11. I was on my way to work, and saw the plane coming in, which would hit the Pentagon moments later. I remember the shock and fear I felt that day. I also remember how eerily quiet the city was in the days that followed. It changed that city.
The people of Boston are changed now.
As we learn more about the people who died, or were severely injured, we have to summon up the good feelings that races like this promote, and use those feelings to fight back the hate that wants to invade our lives. We can't let the darkness of this event define us. Yes, the people of Boston will change with this, but they can also remain vigilant in keeping their marathon, and their way of life strong in the sense of community.
My heart is broken over this tragedy. I know there are many things people are doing to show their support to the people of Boston and the running community. Wearing a race shirt or medal is a visible way to do this. I am dedicating my next run to survivors, and those who died.
I am grateful my friends there weren't harmed.
Today is a day to reflect and pray. Tomorrow we begin to move forward.
Charlie
Sunday, April 14, 2013
F.U.(Mature Audience Post)
Yes, the title is not my usual title. To those who are offended, move along, nothing to see here(Hint: there will be profanity)......
I have posted lately how tired I am of people not seeing me as a runner. Everyday, I work with people who actually feel scared to come into a running store, because they don't "look" like a runner. I spend a good deal of time building people, so they will feel confident to go outside and run.
Look around you at races. Does everyone there fit the ideal of the runner look? No! There are as many shapes and sizes of runners that you can imagine. They are all ages. They are men and they are women. Sometimes, they're in a wheelchair.
Yeah I get I am 200+ lbs. I get I am 5'5" and not tall and lanky. I get I am 50. Did you know I am considered a master and all I had to do was get older?
I have taken a big hit on my self esteem over the last few months at work....and I promise I won't go on about this. As I was running today, I came up with a response to those people who look down on me, or label me that I am somehow less than what they imagine a runner to be. It isn't polite. You may be offended, but I will tell you this mantra got me pushing hard during my run.
So to those folks who are stunned I run, look down on me because I don't fit a look, don't like me offering advice on how to run a marathon, or anything else negative in an effort to make me feel bad - Fuck You!
Charlie
...feeling like he needs to kick some butt...
I have posted lately how tired I am of people not seeing me as a runner. Everyday, I work with people who actually feel scared to come into a running store, because they don't "look" like a runner. I spend a good deal of time building people, so they will feel confident to go outside and run.
Look around you at races. Does everyone there fit the ideal of the runner look? No! There are as many shapes and sizes of runners that you can imagine. They are all ages. They are men and they are women. Sometimes, they're in a wheelchair.
Yeah I get I am 200+ lbs. I get I am 5'5" and not tall and lanky. I get I am 50. Did you know I am considered a master and all I had to do was get older?
I have taken a big hit on my self esteem over the last few months at work....and I promise I won't go on about this. As I was running today, I came up with a response to those people who look down on me, or label me that I am somehow less than what they imagine a runner to be. It isn't polite. You may be offended, but I will tell you this mantra got me pushing hard during my run.
So to those folks who are stunned I run, look down on me because I don't fit a look, don't like me offering advice on how to run a marathon, or anything else negative in an effort to make me feel bad - Fuck You!
Charlie
...feeling like he needs to kick some butt...
Thursday, April 11, 2013
I Know What I Am Talking About
Yes, this is a rare double entry for a day, but it needs to be said. I know what I am talking about, when I talk about running and shoes. I understand I don't "look" like a runner - whatever that means. I understand I have not run Boston. I have run races ranging from 5K to marathon. I have been running since 2005, and have been in running specialty since 2006. I know quite a bit, and I also am aware of what I don't know.
You may ask why the rant? Well, every now and then, I get someone who doesn't think I am a runner. That person usually asks, "Are you a runner?" When I say yes, they look shocked. Yeah, I'm used to it. Then I get the people who ask something like this...."Are you sure this is right for me? Are you sure you know what you are talking about/"
I shouldn't take it personally, but I do. When I worked for the airline, I used to get mad when a customer would accuse me of lying. At Macy's if I wasn't able to give a discount, I would get mad if someone accused me of cheating them. I take my job very seriously, and have studied very hard to know what I know. So yes, I do in fact know what I am talking about.
Rant over.
Charlie
You may ask why the rant? Well, every now and then, I get someone who doesn't think I am a runner. That person usually asks, "Are you a runner?" When I say yes, they look shocked. Yeah, I'm used to it. Then I get the people who ask something like this...."Are you sure this is right for me? Are you sure you know what you are talking about/"
I shouldn't take it personally, but I do. When I worked for the airline, I used to get mad when a customer would accuse me of lying. At Macy's if I wasn't able to give a discount, I would get mad if someone accused me of cheating them. I take my job very seriously, and have studied very hard to know what I know. So yes, I do in fact know what I am talking about.
Rant over.
Charlie
Following My Runs
Most bloggers know you can check statistics of your blog. You can check things like: how many pageviews, hits, what kind of OS, and what part of the world. The last one I find the most interesting. I have a fairly international audience on this blog. Here is the ranking of pageviews by countries:
1) United States
2) Russia
3) Japan
4) Indonesia
5) Australia
6) Canada
7) United Kingdom
8) Germany
9) Vietnam
10) Belgium
Of course I am appreciative of people reading my blog. When I started writing, I didn't think anyone would really read what I had to say. You all do, and sometimes you respond to my posts on this blog, or via email, or personally.
When I run, I am aware that a good many of you follow me. It's like you are all my support crew cheering me on, and I am thankful for it. I'm only sorry I don't know any Russian, Japanese, German, Vietnamese, or Flemish, or I would write at least a few words for you language. Just know I am glad you are all with me on this journey.
Charlie
1) United States
2) Russia
3) Japan
4) Indonesia
5) Australia
6) Canada
7) United Kingdom
8) Germany
9) Vietnam
10) Belgium
Of course I am appreciative of people reading my blog. When I started writing, I didn't think anyone would really read what I had to say. You all do, and sometimes you respond to my posts on this blog, or via email, or personally.
When I run, I am aware that a good many of you follow me. It's like you are all my support crew cheering me on, and I am thankful for it. I'm only sorry I don't know any Russian, Japanese, German, Vietnamese, or Flemish, or I would write at least a few words for you language. Just know I am glad you are all with me on this journey.
Charlie
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Three Miles With My Thoughts
Today I headed out for a 3 mile run. I haven't done 3 miles since January. I felt no matter what I accomplished today, this would be the one MUST DO. With my iPod filled with Pitbull's music, off I went.
One of the things I have written about over the years, is that a run allows you time with your thoughts. While the Miami-thumping music played, I thought a lot about the last few months. Nothing has been easy. To say I have had stress in my life is an understatement. My initial thoughts were negative.
I thought about how I had let myself down weight wise, emotional wise, work wise, and any other wise I could think of. Once I got past the halfway point, things changed. My goal was 3 miles. So I decided that for the rest of the run, I was done with the negative thoughts. I was going to think about the things I do well.
One thing I do well is push ahead. I thought back to the 2010 Portland Marathon(the 8-hour challenge), and how I kept on going, no matter how much I may have wanted to give up. I thought about the races where my mind wanted to shut down, but I pushed back, and kept on moving. There is nothing as motivating as remembering that you can, in fact succeed, and push forward and achieve success. This was how I got to mile 3 today.
I pushed back the weight gain and how disappointed I am. I pushed back the difficulties at work. I pushed back the negative things which have poisoned me. I pushed ahead, and remembered I am a stronger person and can do things.
So while this was not a zippy 3 mile run, it was an important one for my head.
Charlie
One of the things I have written about over the years, is that a run allows you time with your thoughts. While the Miami-thumping music played, I thought a lot about the last few months. Nothing has been easy. To say I have had stress in my life is an understatement. My initial thoughts were negative.
I thought about how I had let myself down weight wise, emotional wise, work wise, and any other wise I could think of. Once I got past the halfway point, things changed. My goal was 3 miles. So I decided that for the rest of the run, I was done with the negative thoughts. I was going to think about the things I do well.
One thing I do well is push ahead. I thought back to the 2010 Portland Marathon(the 8-hour challenge), and how I kept on going, no matter how much I may have wanted to give up. I thought about the races where my mind wanted to shut down, but I pushed back, and kept on moving. There is nothing as motivating as remembering that you can, in fact succeed, and push forward and achieve success. This was how I got to mile 3 today.
I pushed back the weight gain and how disappointed I am. I pushed back the difficulties at work. I pushed back the negative things which have poisoned me. I pushed ahead, and remembered I am a stronger person and can do things.
So while this was not a zippy 3 mile run, it was an important one for my head.
Charlie
Sunday, April 07, 2013
The Eyes of Wonder
One of my favorite things to do in my job is to talk to someone who is getting ready for their first marathon. I ask them various questions about what made them decide to do a particular race, how will they be training, how was training been going to this point, etc. There is one question I always ask, "What are you looking forward to the most?"
When I ask this, I find runners begin to open up and tell me their marathon hopes and dreams. They smile and talk about how they want to see the people, or how much they are looking forward to the challenge. Sometimes they tell me that they are looking forward to seeing their families at the end. What all of these answers surround is they are looking forward to the experience.
You can run any race, but I say, without question, the marathon experience is unique. You train so hard and long for it, and then the day arrives, and your anticipation is at an all time high. You are about to embark on an adventure, and you have no idea what will happen over the course of 26.2 miles.
All of my marathons have had their own story. There has been nothing the same about any of them. I take that back, there is one common thing - you run 26.2 miles. Other than that, you have no idea what will happen. You may see amazing things, or people. You may experience pure joy, or horrible heartache. Still there is a thrill of wondering what the unknown will be like on that particular day.
As people tell me what they are looking forward to, I see smiles. I see wonder. I see a runner getting ready to go for something they haven't done before. It makes my job all that more special.
Charlie
When I ask this, I find runners begin to open up and tell me their marathon hopes and dreams. They smile and talk about how they want to see the people, or how much they are looking forward to the challenge. Sometimes they tell me that they are looking forward to seeing their families at the end. What all of these answers surround is they are looking forward to the experience.
You can run any race, but I say, without question, the marathon experience is unique. You train so hard and long for it, and then the day arrives, and your anticipation is at an all time high. You are about to embark on an adventure, and you have no idea what will happen over the course of 26.2 miles.
All of my marathons have had their own story. There has been nothing the same about any of them. I take that back, there is one common thing - you run 26.2 miles. Other than that, you have no idea what will happen. You may see amazing things, or people. You may experience pure joy, or horrible heartache. Still there is a thrill of wondering what the unknown will be like on that particular day.
As people tell me what they are looking forward to, I see smiles. I see wonder. I see a runner getting ready to go for something they haven't done before. It makes my job all that more special.
Charlie
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