Where to Run?

This was on my mind as I ran 4 miles at the gym today. I need a fall half marathon, and am really stuck on one. Many I would like to run are the same weekend as the Chicago Marathon - 10/10. I will have to work that weekend, so I need a race before or after that date.

Here are some I am leaning towards:

Philadelphia Distance Classic

Rock n Roll Virginia Beach

Cowtown Marathon and 1/2 Marathon in Sacramento, CA

Fox Cities Marathon and 1/2 Marathon

Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon

Any would work for me. I am just not sure which one I would like.

As for today's run, I ran 4 miles on the treadmill and felt great. Mark was moving right along on the treadmill next to me, running 3 miles. We will start training for the Indianapolis Mini Marathon in a couple weeks.

Charlie

3.1 and it Felt Good

Last night after work, in a freezing rain - I headed to the gym for a 3.1 mile run. I got new shoes yesterday, so it was a great way to break them in. The Brooks Dyads didn't fail me. They worked fine. The run itself was fine.

Going to the gym this time of year is always interesting. All the New Year's resolution people are there. So it cracks me up to see a line of people waiting for a treadmill. There is just something funny about people waiting in line to basically run in place. :-)

My run was filled with thoughts of work. There has been a lot of change at my store. We have a new manager, a new general manager, and soon my store will be moving to a new location. In it all is what is expected of me. In addition to being assistant manager, I am the Footwear Manager for my store. I have been asked to develop ways to improve customer service, and achieve financial goals for 2010. No small task I can assure you. so I have some challenges ahead.

I am also trying figure out my fall half marathon. Darn all these races that happen the weekend of October 10. That is the same weekend as the Chicago Marathon, and I will need to work that weekend. I need suggestions on which race to run. Thoughts?

Charlie

Odd Moments

There are odd times in my job as a running shoe guy. One of them is when I am recognized in public and folks want to talk to me. That happened this evening. I was on my way home from work, listen to the Black Eyed Peas on the ole iPod. A woman outside a German bar saw me and was waving at me. I pulled off the ear bud, and she said, "Hey man, you sold me these shoes. I LOVE them!!!" I had to smile, and laugh a bit. She wasn't running in them, nor was she training for her Tri in them...she was drinking in them. I told her I was glad she liked them.

I thought about this on the way home. Very few people affect a customer like the running shoe guy. No really....when was the last time you saw the guy who sold you the wing tips and told him how great the shoes are. What about the person who sold you a dress? Did you tell her the dress was great?

I think runners have a strong relationship with their shoe store, so it makes sense they would have a strong relationship with their shoe person. I like that feeling....but it's odd at the same time. All day I share running with people...and that is pretty special to me. I just still get a strange feeling from people stopping me outside of work to talk about their shoes.

Charlie

Way to Help the People of Haiti

There are many good charities out there wanting donations to help the people of Haiti during this horrible time. Let me share an organization with you.

http://www.soles4souls.org/ways_to_help/haitianearthquake.html

Soles 4 Souls is working to make sure Haitians are getting shoes. With all the raw sewage and debris around, disease is a real possibility for thousands. Shoes can make a difference, so people limit their contact with these potentially harmful things. If you don't have shoes to donate, money will go towards getting shoes for these people in true need.

Charlie

2010 - Eh

I am sorry I have not written thus far in the new year. Several reasons behind it. I have had computer problems, which has been corrected by getting a new computer. I have not been running as much, which is kind of depressing. I have also felt a bit down, and I guess I felt I was not wanting to share my "down" feeling.

My running had been limited to the treadmill, mostly due to the weather - winter weather = wimpy runner. I am helping Mark train for the Indy Mini Marathon in May. He does running and cross training at the gym, so I go with him. We will shift to outdoors as the weather improves.

I have not been gung ho on my running. I feel blah about it. Maybe it's the weather? Maybe it's me feeling down about other aspects of life(which I can't share in this forum). I think things will improve once Mark and I move in a few weeks. Our living situation has been a nightmare as my friends will attest. The nightmare ends in February when we move into a new apartment.

I was down on myself when I went to look at clothes. Ironically a pair of skinny jeans fit ok, but when I was trying on a suit, I was told I was portly. I am not in tip top shape, but I am not fat either. I just look blah at this point. I was horribly offended when I was told I should go to the big and tall store. I am neither! Arrrgh!

So what do I weigh? Right now 212 lbs. Not where I would like to be, but not as bad as it could be. I really need to focus on eating better, and Mark had promised to share in that endeavor as well. He has lost a lot of weight. He is at 233 lbs, and at one point was in the 255-260 range. I am proud of him.

So the year is off to an "eh" start. It can only get better....right?

Charlie

2009 to 2010

Happy New Year everyone!

Before we head into 2010, I want to take a look at 2009.

Personal stats -
648.3 miles run
12:30 avg. mile pace
96855 calories burned.

Phew....that seems like a lot of running. It was.

My runs ranged from a couple miles on the treadmill to the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. I ran through Evanston. I ran in Soldier Field Stadium. I trotted along Lake Michigan. There were 5Ks, half marathons, and just fun runs with Mark. All in all it was a good year. I was healthy, and I enjoyed running.

My running of late has not been where I would like it, but I am going to chalk that up to post-marathon blues. I am determined that starting tomorrow, it will be time to really start running again.

So what lies ahead in 2010?

First major race is the Indianapolis Mini Marathon. This large half marathon is famous for it's lap around the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway. As of now, I want to end the year in Washington, D.C. with the Army 10 Miler. I am still looking for another half marathon to run.

My overall goal is to get a half marathon PR this year. The current best is 2:45, and I know I can bring that down a bit.

I am also excited that I will be helping Mark train for his first half marathon. So it will be a busy winter/spring.

Finally I want to get my body in shape. I have complained about this of late. My if I have to have a resolution for the new year, it is to be healthier in my eating.

Happy 2010 folks!

Charlie

Catching Up

Folks I am so sorry I haven't been writing. Will be honest, have not had much to say running wise, and I wasn't sure if you wanted to know what else goes on in my life. Running these days has been at the gym. I go with Mark, and he runs and cross trains. Because my time is usually limited I am doing 3-4 mile runs. As you know treadmill running is not the same as road running, but the cold and snow/ice on the ground have made me a bit nervous about being outside. Still I need to find a way to make the running inside more enjoyable.

Other than running - Mark and I are moving to a new apartment here in Chicago. We will be in the new place on February 1. The new digs will be closer to work, but more importantly we will not be living with the horrible woman and Mark's brother. I have shared in other venues why it has been so hard living with them, and won't go into detail here. Let's just say this is a great move, and we are thrilled we have the opportunity to do this.

I will need to figure new running routes, and I think that will be an adventure. I will be closer to Andersonville, so I may run more in that area. Who knows though.

Tomorrow I plan on writing a summary of 2009 and what is ahead for 2010.

Charlie

Happy Holidays

The last few days have been busy as we get ready for Christmas. I have been running well at the gym. Could I be eating better? Yes....maybe I wait until after Christmas? I know I am developing a eating and workout plan for the half marathon.

I want to run a bit faster than I have this year. I really want to PR at a half in 2010. I will write more about this in coming posts.

In the meantime I will be in Indiana for Christmas. Very much looking forward to it. I will check in and write some things. Don't want you all to think I have forgotten about you.

Charlie

Third Year Anniversary

Today marks my third anniversary at Fleet Feet Sports. I was never so happy to hear I got a job as when Dave Zimmer, the owner called me to offer the job. I had a darned good feeling I was going to be hired, so I quit my job at Macy/Marshall Field's a couple of hours before he called me.

Working with runners has been an absolute joy. I get to help people on a daily basis towards achieving their goals. Whether they are running their 10th marathon, 1st 5K, or just want to run down the block, I have loved talking to them about their plans, helping them get the right gear, and offering advice. Those customers, over the years have let me know how much they appreciate my help. I have people flag me down on the Lakefront Path to tell me their shoes are great. Runners have seen me at races and made a point of telling me how much I helped them get to this point. A few have even told me I inspire them.

I am also blessed to work with some amazing people. Everyday I look forward to seeing my co-workers. I know it will be a fun day at work. It's pretty rare when you can find a workplace where you enjoy being with your co-workers on a continual basis.

I have learned so much about running, shoes, clothing and the athletic companies along the way. There is so much that goes into a pair of running shoes. Never thought I would learn about all the technology which goes into a shoe. I may not always understand why it works, but at least I get what it does.

Has everyday been a good one? No, I think we all have our days where we would rather be elsewhere. I will say the majority....about 99% of the days have been good days. What can I say I love where I work and what I do.

I was asked a month ago what has been the thing I am most proud of doing at Fleet Feet Sports. My answer was coaching the No Boundaries program. That is a culmination of what I do. Coaching the beginning runners is a thrill for me. I love the training runs, the coaching opportunities and just getting to know the runners. Watching those folks run their first 5K is a thrill for me.

You never know what the future brings, but I am eager for more anniversaries at Fleet Feet. Thanks to Dave Zimmer for taking a chance on me. I appreciate what he has done for me. Thanks to my co-workers for their patience and good humor as I work along side them.

Here is to more wonderful years at Fleet Feet.

Charlie

Paula and Me

One of the things I really like about treadmill running...and will admit it is probably the only thing, is I can share the time with Paula Deen. Now for those not familiar with Ms. Deen, she is a down home gal who can cook like no one can. As you all know I love watching the Food Network while I run at the gym. Paula is my favorite.

She is always happy. Her food is comfort food - and lots of it. Her laugh is infectious. I smile when she is on TV. She is also not afraid of butter. The woman uses butter in everything. God bless her. I watched Paula on Oprah a few weeks ago. Oprah made the comment that the food was high in calories and fat. Paula's response? "Oprah I'm your cook, not your doctor." LOVE HER!!!

So my 4 mile run yesterday was Paula filled as she made Christmas candy. I think I ran fast just because of Paula.

The run itself was a good one. I cranked up the speed on the treadmill. It felt good to be zipping along. All in all a good workout. Tomorrow a cross train day.

Charlie

Our Heroes - the Letdown

Sports stars are our heroes. We love and idolize them. We marvel at their abilities, and want to be them. When we learn they are human it is devastating. For the last few weeks we have had to endure the fall to the human world of Tiger Woods. I am a huge Woods fan. I will watch any golf match he plays, because no one has the mind on the course he has, and I love to watch him work. He is a golf hero of mine.

What to think after all the revelations that Tiger has had many women. Here is what I know - he cheated on his wife. Here is what I don't know - really? ALL THOSE WOMEN??

More importantly I don't care. I really don't care that Woods had those affairs, because it is none of my business. Do I think less of him out on the course? No. Is he still a hero? Yes. His fooling around had nothing to do with his abilities on the course. He does not answer to me in his personal life. He answers to himself and Elin. Sadly he also answers to sponsors, who I suspect are about to drop him big time - Gillette, Accenture, Gatorade already have.

I read one story where a man was crying because his son loves Woods, and what will happen now? Sir, tell your son that here is another life lesson, people make mistakes. How Woods corrects this mistake will say far more about his character than what has happened. Use Woods' work ethic as a role model, not the man.

I feel sorry and not sorry for Woods. True, he brought this on himself, but the media has been brutal to a man who, as far as I can tell, has never harmed anyone in his life - except other golfers on the course. Hang in there Tiger.

We love a good comeback story, and I bet in the end Woods' comeback will be amazing.

Charlie

3.5 and It Was Fine

Today Mark and I went to the gym. It was very important to me that I run today. Since I started running, it has been a way for me to cope with the good and the bad. My professional life is running related, so there was a blur in there for me. A few weeks ago I did not get a promotion I had wanted at the store, so I have been down for the last couple weeks. It affected how I was with my running.

Mark and I sat down with the calendar tonight and charted my running for the next couple weeks. The goal is that the run will be a priority, and I will use it to really work through some issues in my head. I have missed that, and I need to get back to running as a part of my routine.

The 3.5 miles on the treadmill went well. I listened to some wonderful Celtic Christmas music. It made the run a bit more enjoyable. My thoughts during the run turned to my career, and what I want to accomplish. Nothing was settled in my mind today, but that's ok. It didn't need to be. I just wanted to start the process.

Charlie

Not Feeling It

This has been an odd week for me. I just have not felt like running. It would be easy to say I have been busy, too busy, but that would be incorrect. I have been down lately. Usually I would go for a run to cheer my spirits, but right now, I am just not feeling it.

So what is wrong? I have had some personal setbacks in the last few weeks, which are leading me to think about the future. Things I thought I knew, I am not so sure about. As much as I would like to go into what lead to my sadness, I can;t right now. It is deep enough that I feel I am at a cross roads.

There is much I want to do in life. One of those goals is developing my own non profit organization. Some know I hold a master's degree in non profit management. There have been organizations I had hoped to work for, but it has never worked out. So maybe the answer is to find a need, and see what call to action there is for me. I have a few things in mind.

How does this affect my running? Feeling down for an emotional eater like me means I tend to eat more, and I feel I have done that this week. I know things will turn around, and I will get back into a stronger desire to run. Who knows, maybe I just need to write all of this to get it out of my system. I plan on a run tomorrow, so we will see.

I just know that the disappointment I have had lately has had an important impact on me.

Mark has been a tremendous support for me. Also the fact Christmas is coming is helping.

I have decided 2010 is a year of change for me. Not sure what that change will look like, but I think it will be big.

Charlie

The Weather Outside is.....

We are having bad winter weather. It is a combination of snow/rain/bitter cold. No running outside. so I headed to the gym last night for my run. I did 3 really good miles. I did a combination of speedier work and put the treadmill on the random selection. Normally I don't do hill work, but I really wanted to change things up with my run last night.

Overall I felt good. I was listening to Phedippidations and smiling as Steve Runner was racing his friend Joe. Go Steve Go!!! Mark was on the bike doing some cross training.

During my run, I thought about fitness goals for 2010. I think I would like to work with the trainer again. I need a boost to make sure I am strong. For whatever reason I have felt I can't do it alone.

Still thinking about races for 2010. My first major race will be the Indianapolis Mini Marathon in May. I registered for this last year, but was not ready for it at the time. I will be ready this year, and Mark will be running it as well. It will be his first half marathon. Very proud of him.

Today the weather will be even worse. Oh winter....you have arrived.

Charlie

Back from a Cold

Sorry I haven't written much this week. I had a bad cold which really knocked me out. So today was my first run of the week/month. I ran 3 miles at the gym. Mark was on the treadmill next to me running. He ran 2 miles.

I suppose we could have run outside but he is not used to that yet, and I wanted to encourage him by running with him today. It was a good run. I ran at a good clip 12:04/mile. No real training yet, though I know what the next major race will be. I am trying to figure out the 2010 schedule. So I will have that up shortly.

So what was on my mind today during the run? Christmas. We are heading to Indiana to see old friends of mine, so I am thinking a lot about what to get everyone. If only they all ran. :-)

Running is a great way to put things into perspective in your mind. You can make shopping lists. You can figure what to do with the rest of your day. You can also think about life.

Yes, I thought about more that Christmas. I looked over at Mark, and just smiled. He has been such a joy to me. We have talked about marrying. There are several things which would need to happen, both politically and personally. But we have plans that include a commitment = hopefully legal one day. I love that guy, and am so glad he is hitting the road to run. He now talks about trail running. What have I created?

Charlie

Home Sick

Folks....I am sick. As you may figure I really hate being sick. I am not a good sick person.

The good news is Mark is taking care of me today....though I think he is getting this too.

Arrgh!

Charlie

Cross Train - Next Year's Goal

I was going to run at the gym today, but it was packed. I mean packed. There was a line of people for the treadmills(go figure). So I hopped on the bike and the elliptical. Overall I did 6 miles. I felt pretty good, but it seemed obvious I am not in top shape.

During the workout I thought about my weight goals for next year. I am now at 210 lbs. I would like to get back below 200. I think this is very realistic. I don't eat poorly, but I could eat better. I want to increase my veggie and fruit intake.

I will write about it in the coming year, and keep myself open here on my blog.

Charlie

Edison Park Turkey Trot

You got to love a good Turkey Trot. People come out from all over to run. Some are hardcore runners. Others are casual. Still others run once a year - Thanksgiving. About 3,000 showed up in Edison Park today to run one of the Chicago area Turkey Trots. Mark and I ran as well.

Everyone comes out for this race. Mom, dad, the kids, grandma. Heck today the Chicago Fire Dept. had they cadets run the race. It was chilly, a touch rainy, and we had a lot of fun. Mark and I ran together for about the first mile, then he had me go on. I had a good time out there seeing neighbors come out to cheer their friends. Of course with all the people running, I was surprised to see anyone was not running.

The time in a Turkey Trot is not the reason to run it. Running with family and friends is the reason. I did well enough time wise - 38:03. Mark finished in 44:17. The real fun was seeing people celebrate Thanksgiving with a run.

Charlie

Running With Mark

Today I got Mark up and out the door for a 4.3 mile run. Now I should note, this was not a training run. This was not a let's run and check our time. In fact I stopped the watch, because it was pointless to time the fun we were having.

We headed to Evanston, and did a run/walk combination. A little more walking than I do, but Mark has Achilles issues, so he needs to walk a bit more. Still it was a joy to run with him. At one point we stopped at a park and chatted with a lesbian couple, who were out with their dogs. They talked about trail running, which I wish I could do. I just don't have the feet for it. They made it sounds delightful though.

I can tell Mark enjoys running. I think he tries to beat me though. I keep reminding him this is about endurance and not speed at this point. He told me he prefers the fall weather to summer running. I agree 100%.

At the end of the run, the mist turned to sprinkles. Even that did not diminish the run.

Charlie

Community

One of things I love most about running is the sense that there is a running community out there. Yes, running can be a very solitary activity. It is that activity that brings so many people together. You see it at races. You see it a local fun runs. You see it online through the ever expanding RunNet Community. People come together over running. It is a pretty amazing thing.

In my almost 3 years working for Fleet Feet Sports, I have had the honor to meet so many fellow runners. Some I see on a regular basis. Others I see from time to time at races. I may not remember names, but I remember them, and they remember me. When we talk, it's like we are old friends.

Now it may be different at the competitive level. I don't know. I have never been at that level. :-) I do think though people who run are not only happier in life, but they spread that happiness through the rest of the community.

Today I got an email from a woman who is a regular at our store and fun runs. She and her husband come every week to run. I love talking to them, and have become friends with them. Her email was an invitation to a choral concert her husband is in. He sings! This a way we runners bond. We bond over running, and that expands into our lives. I love it.

Online, there are runners from all over the world, coming together to form the RunNet Community. These are people who blog, podcast, post about their running. It is using New Media to spread the our love and passion for running and to encourage others to get active and join us. Steve Runner, and other fellow runners are starting this movement, and I am a proud member of it.

Now community may not be your cup of tea. No worries. I'm not saying you all have to be part of the community. I am saying it is good to know that one more thing to love about running is that it encourages community.

Charlie