We need to take care when we choose our heroes, as it’s easier than we think to aspire to things that aren’t right for us, and running goals that are beyond where we can go for now.
I want to comment on Covid absolutism. As someone who has worked in a Covid unit since March, I can testify to the catastrophic nature of the disease. But, I agree that it is more beneficial to focus on ways to decrease infection than try for a complete elimination of all risk. As I have been telling my family for almost a year, we look at time spent, proximity to, and precautions taken to stratify risk. So, try to meet outdoors, wear a mask as much as possible, limit time in close proximity. Running outdoors typically does all of these things. AND, staying healthy means you are less likely to get sick. I don't wear a mask when I run. I tried it once, and just couldn't do it. Instead, I drape a light weight cooling towel around my neck that I use to cover my nose and mouth if I must run by people. This works for me, and so far, I haven't had anyone yell at me.
PS: Love the Harry Potter reference. I find that there is a Harry Potter quote for almost every occasion.
The thought that came to mind upon reading today’s lovely newsletter was, “Run the mile you’re in.” It’s a mantra that I have to repeat to myself often as I aim for a full marathon. I go out on a long run and those first miles, when my legs are fresh, I just want to flyyyyyyy—but if I do, the final miles are always a death slog. I will probably run with a pace group for my marathon in 3 weeks—but the trick, still, is to pick that Goldilocks finish time. 🤷🏽♀️
I love that phrase, Steph! (And it reminds me of the book by Ryan Hall, which I need to pick up.) Are you running the Woodlands Marathon in a few weeks? How is/did your long run go this weekend? You must be up to 20 or 22 miles by now.
Yep, The Woodlands is my hometown marathon. Ran 18 instead of 20 yesterday because it became too cold (34F [feels like 23] + wind + sweaty wet gear = 🥶) for this Texas gal. I knew after my last 18 that I was as ready as one can be for such a difficult distance. Ran a big chunk of the (new) course yesterday, including 10ish around marathon goal pace, to set expectations. I still worry about mental stamina for 20-26 but I’ll get it done 💪🏽
Wonderful newsletter this morning, Terrell! Some of my heroes are runners who “keep on keeping on,” regardless of time. A bit icy, snowy and very cold this week in Oxford, MS. Running will be a great adventure!
It will! I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm so jealous of your snow. Have you lived in Oxford for a long time? I've always wanted to visit (my English teacher in high school thought Faulker was the second-greatest writer who ever lived, after Shakespeare).
Snow is pretty but ooh, ice is no fun for running. Take care! We’re getting some of that in Texas as well but I’m thinking treadmill Tuesday when it’s snowing/snaining/sleeting and single digits.
Thanks so much, Catherine! That's so cool that you got to work with his daughter; what was she like? And, what are your favorites of his book? Love to hear your thoughts. (And I'd love to hear what Teach for America was like too!)
Right back at you, Howie! I'm glad you love the nature videos! Those are the best things to stumble across -- and they're fun to review as I search for the right one 😃
Thanks for the nature video and for the comments about Covid absolutism. I know some Covid absolutists and they drive me crazy. Totally restricting people is based on fear not evidence and it just invites defiance.
I hear you. I debated whether or not to include it, because I don't want to give anyone the wrong impression -- I'm totally supportive of all necessary measures to stop the spread of the virus. I'm more than happy to do social distancing and I wear a mask whenever I go out in public.
But there *are* a number of things we can do together safely, and running/exercising is right at the top of the list -- it can be done safely, with very little risk. That's the thing that, in retrospect, I wish could have been communicated differently.
I know nuance is hard with these things -- and hindsight is always 20/20! -- but if we had it to do over again, it might have helped to give people more of a release valve. Hopefully we'll all learn from this.
Snow (about 12 inches) Then rain to melt the snow. It's incredibly icy and Seattle is notorious for not clearing the roads and trails. Needless to say, no run on Sunday and perhaps not in the near future until it thaws out. I don't have the luxury of a Treadmill, so it is grounded time for me, but, on the bright side, there is always Yoga. :)
Loved your thoughts on the Goldilocks Principle. While it is great to look to people who have done what we think is exceptional, it is far more honest to accept who and what we are and strive to improve on what we have been given. It's from the position of being comfortable that we can grow and progress.
Wonderful newsletter! Thank you.
I want to comment on Covid absolutism. As someone who has worked in a Covid unit since March, I can testify to the catastrophic nature of the disease. But, I agree that it is more beneficial to focus on ways to decrease infection than try for a complete elimination of all risk. As I have been telling my family for almost a year, we look at time spent, proximity to, and precautions taken to stratify risk. So, try to meet outdoors, wear a mask as much as possible, limit time in close proximity. Running outdoors typically does all of these things. AND, staying healthy means you are less likely to get sick. I don't wear a mask when I run. I tried it once, and just couldn't do it. Instead, I drape a light weight cooling towel around my neck that I use to cover my nose and mouth if I must run by people. This works for me, and so far, I haven't had anyone yell at me.
PS: Love the Harry Potter reference. I find that there is a Harry Potter quote for almost every occasion.
Thank you so much, Maria! I'm so glad you wrote what you did above. That's the advice we all need to hear.
The thought that came to mind upon reading today’s lovely newsletter was, “Run the mile you’re in.” It’s a mantra that I have to repeat to myself often as I aim for a full marathon. I go out on a long run and those first miles, when my legs are fresh, I just want to flyyyyyyy—but if I do, the final miles are always a death slog. I will probably run with a pace group for my marathon in 3 weeks—but the trick, still, is to pick that Goldilocks finish time. 🤷🏽♀️
I love that phrase, Steph! (And it reminds me of the book by Ryan Hall, which I need to pick up.) Are you running the Woodlands Marathon in a few weeks? How is/did your long run go this weekend? You must be up to 20 or 22 miles by now.
Yep, The Woodlands is my hometown marathon. Ran 18 instead of 20 yesterday because it became too cold (34F [feels like 23] + wind + sweaty wet gear = 🥶) for this Texas gal. I knew after my last 18 that I was as ready as one can be for such a difficult distance. Ran a big chunk of the (new) course yesterday, including 10ish around marathon goal pace, to set expectations. I still worry about mental stamina for 20-26 but I’ll get it done 💪🏽
Goodluck! Enjoy.
Good luck!
Loved the Boise Forest video! Thank you!! 19 degrees and snowing here in Cour D'Lain...only crazy one out there running a 5K.
Wonderful newsletter this morning, Terrell! Some of my heroes are runners who “keep on keeping on,” regardless of time. A bit icy, snowy and very cold this week in Oxford, MS. Running will be a great adventure!
It will! I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm so jealous of your snow. Have you lived in Oxford for a long time? I've always wanted to visit (my English teacher in high school thought Faulker was the second-greatest writer who ever lived, after Shakespeare).
Terrell, we have lived here for 15 years (University affiliation). Oxford is a superb college town! After COVID, you all will need to visit!
Snow is pretty but ooh, ice is no fun for running. Take care! We’re getting some of that in Texas as well but I’m thinking treadmill Tuesday when it’s snowing/snaining/sleeting and single digits.
Love the David Halberstam references - I became a fan of his writing when I worked with his daughter while she did Teach for America in the MS Delta.
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Thanks so much, Catherine! That's so cool that you got to work with his daughter; what was she like? And, what are your favorites of his book? Love to hear your thoughts. (And I'd love to hear what Teach for America was like too!)
Thanks for what you contribute to this community, Terrell!! Always look forward to the nature video, too!
Right back at you, Howie! I'm glad you love the nature videos! Those are the best things to stumble across -- and they're fun to review as I search for the right one 😃
Thank you for this!
Thanks for the nature video and for the comments about Covid absolutism. I know some Covid absolutists and they drive me crazy. Totally restricting people is based on fear not evidence and it just invites defiance.
I hear you. I debated whether or not to include it, because I don't want to give anyone the wrong impression -- I'm totally supportive of all necessary measures to stop the spread of the virus. I'm more than happy to do social distancing and I wear a mask whenever I go out in public.
But there *are* a number of things we can do together safely, and running/exercising is right at the top of the list -- it can be done safely, with very little risk. That's the thing that, in retrospect, I wish could have been communicated differently.
I know nuance is hard with these things -- and hindsight is always 20/20! -- but if we had it to do over again, it might have helped to give people more of a release valve. Hopefully we'll all learn from this.
Thanks Terrell, as the Times says its an approach of safer behavior versus total abstinence and it's kinder and more realistic, IMO.
Definitely so. Hopefully, by this summer sometime, this will begin to be in the rear view mirror. I'm hoping, anyway!
Yes!
Snow (about 12 inches) Then rain to melt the snow. It's incredibly icy and Seattle is notorious for not clearing the roads and trails. Needless to say, no run on Sunday and perhaps not in the near future until it thaws out. I don't have the luxury of a Treadmill, so it is grounded time for me, but, on the bright side, there is always Yoga. :)
Loved your thoughts on the Goldilocks Principle. While it is great to look to people who have done what we think is exceptional, it is far more honest to accept who and what we are and strive to improve on what we have been given. It's from the position of being comfortable that we can grow and progress.