It's been less than two weeks and I'm still missing this, big time
Morning, friends! ☀️ It’s been a few weeks since the last time we gathered for a Friday thread, and now here we are, with kids back in school and (mostly) back at college, the weather (even here in Atlanta) is starting to turn cooler in the mornings and evenings, so it’s juuuuust starting to feel like fall (a little bit, anyway).
So, like I used to do when I saw friends again at the start of the school year, after not seeing them for three months, I’d love to know — what did you do with your summer, running-related or not? Did you train for a big race? Reach a big goal? Take a cool vacation? Read an amazing book, or watch an amazing series that you loved?
Really it could be anything — I love hearing it all. I’ll kick us off in the comments, and feel free to share whatever inspired you, or something you did that you really loved. — Terrell
I finished my seventh novel that is a finalist at the Florida Writers Conference, practiced my violin twice a day, took care of our two foster and healed from two bouts of double pneumonia. Under doctor;'s orders, I am not allowed to run for six months... after watching six days of all our USA runners take medals and set world records... I wanted to scream... I WANT TO RUN AGAIN! and will. In six months anyway...LOL
I know you'll be back, Steve! A friend of mine who had surgery earlier this year on his knee recently re-injured it, and so he has to have the surgery AGAIN. So, take your time! I'd love to hear more about your seventh novel -- what's it about? And can we buy it on Amazon?
I'm GOOD. While I don't want to get ahead of myself--because it is not a sure thing--I pitched to one of the top agents in my category (debut authors)--it was a TOTAL LONG SHOT--but, to my delighted surprise, she requested my full manuscript--has asked for some revisions (that I AGREE WHOLEHEARTEDLY with)--and has invited me to resubmit when I'm done. So I'm back to the keyboard but this time, with a little bit of a potential hope rainbow at the end of the road. (As my mother used to say--that's better than a punch in the nose.)
I'm so, so happy and excited for you, Diana! I know this is something you've had cooking for a while, so it's awesome to see it come to fruition!!!!
Things are good here, our kids are back in school, and my son and I took a really great trip back in July out to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks -- holy moly they were gorgeous. Got to see bison, moose, wolves, bears, elk, and stay in a couple of the really iconic, authentic old park hotels. Such a cool trip. We also went to the beach for a week, but it was pretty rainy thanks to Tropical Storm Debby -- that's okay, though, we did get a few days outside at the beach. Now I'm just ready for fall!
I'm starting to think about writing a book, or maybe something novella-length, of my own. I'd started a story a couple years ago for my son, and now he just asked me if I'd finished it, so... I need to get cracking :)
This is all great! AND of course I’ll push the writing a book thing…Did you know that Leif Enger (who wrote one of my favorite books, Peace Like A River—his debut, that sold over 1 million copies) wrote it for his family and specifically his asthmatic son? Good things can come from writing for the people you love….Just sayin’
Thanks, Steve! (Seriously, the pats on the back are GOLD, so I really appreciate your encouragement.) And the email she wrote was amazing--VERY detailed and constructive feedback--and she even indicated that if she had more bandwidth, she'd take me on as is. So--being a big believer in "optimism" and the old "power of positive thinking" I'm marching forward with a bit more twinkle in my eye.
No such huge accomplishments as the others. I did get the cataracts removed from my eyes. So delighted that I can see again. . . and, I get my driver's license renewed too, so there's not stopping me now! Myopia is the Pits!! Somehow, I lucked out with an excellent surgeon.
Mainly, I gardened and took care of the herbs and tomatoes which are still going. There is a lot of yard-work that needs to be done before the leaves fall. (They started yesterday--I noticed!) The fall crocus bulbs came the other day--I have to get out and plant them. . . the anthers are good for saffron.
Very little running, but that is life.
Glad that you enjoyed the Wild West--I've always liked it out here!
So good to see your name on THM, Clark! I wondered what happened to you!!
I've mostly been walking, but as Terrell said in his newsletter, Repetitio mater studiorum est,”. . .better get crackin' I've got too much running planned for the upcoming years!
This summer has involved a lot of running, a fun family vacay to Washington, DC (our 8-year old thinks National Treasure is the best movie ever, so he was pumped to see the Declaration of Independence), a few weeks as a family of four before moving our oldest back into her dorm for year two of college, finally seeing The Decemberists live, graduation parties (one featuring an Elton John impersonator), setting up the hammock in the living room because it was too hot outside (genius move, honestly), and lots of reading.
I'm more than halfway through my marathon training block -- 58 days to go! Tomorrow I've got an 18-miler, thank God for the false fall temps here in eastern NC.
Can I say that I, as a 53-year-old, am probably just as crazy for 'National Treasure' as your 8-year-old? 🤣 My little man loves it too -- we actually are planning to get up to D.C. sometime this fall, so he can see all of that too. Which marathon are you running, btw? And good luck tomorrow with the 18-miler -- you've got this! If you're already at 18, you're well on your way!!
I'm running the Detroit Marathon. I'm super psyched! It will be my first!
When you go to DC, I would highly recommend a stop at the Supreme Court. Whatever you think of it as an institution or the judges themselves, it is a very impressive building and has a great little cafeteria that has good food for decent prices, especially for DC. And if court isn't in session, it's a good place to get away from the crowds.
Thanks! I definitely will. When I was in college, I was a summer intern at our senator's office and I lived in a tiny little apartment just behind Capitol Hill, and got to walk past the Supreme Court everyday. But I never went in! Will definitely check it out -- thanks for that!
It’s been a hot summer in the Phoenix area and I’m looking forward to cooler temperatures! I participated in a summer 5k series; there were 7 5ks every other week around the Valley. It was fun to meet up with the run club to compete in the 5ks. Out of the 7, I placed 1st in my age group twice, placed 2nd in my age group twice and placed 3rd in my age group once - all of this after walking the first event in an ankle brace for a bad 2nd degree sprain. Honestly, I surprised myself. There were approximately 40 women in my age group each race and they are strong to be out there running in this heat and humidity! Also, I started indoor rock climbing. Wow, it’s so much fun! Admittedly, I use my legs to push myself up to the top because I need to build up my upper body strength! So, I started a push up/core blitz streak and on day 45 (push up), on day 37 (core). I’ve never done any kind of workout or run streak. Surprised myself again! I’m grateful to continue to make progress in fitness at my age (52)!!! ‘Til next time!
Caring for our daughter who just turned one! It’s been an adjustment for me, being type-A and oriented around performance in both running and career. I’ve had to work through a lot of frustration not being able to focus on the projects that interest me, but also an opportunity for growth in patience, simplicity, and learning to find joy in the growth of our daughter.
Sam, this is awesome! I don't know if I knew you'd had a baby, but I know of what you speak -- it's a HUGE adjustment, isn't it? It's like being born into an entirely new life -- the good thing is, too, you get to have a second childhood, seeing the world through your daughter's eyes. There's really no experience like it -- happy birthday to your daughter!!
I enjoyed a 3 night backpacking trip into the Mt. Jefferson wilderness in central Oregon. We got lucky and dodged wildfire smoke and the weather was perfect. My summer is not quite over. In one week I leave for the Philippines to go Scuba diving . Hoping to see Thresher Sharks, Whale Sharks and a whole lot more!
I see that the weather cooperated! Very little smoke here in Eugene, if any. We finally got rain--the garden appreciated it. Weather is changing, though!
My goodness, the Philippines! I love diving. . . most I have ever done is on Oahu, though I hope to do more off of Kehei on Maui in March when the whales come. Have a half in March--one I've always wanted to do--Valley to the Sea--starts at the Iao Needle on Maui down to Wailuku.
Ken, that's awesome! I've been scuba diving once, years ago in Crystal River, Florida -- which was fun, but nothing like what you'll experience in the Phillippines, I imagine. Is scuba a big hobby for you?
More power to you … I went scuba diving once … in the deep end of a morel swimming pool as part of a lesson! Get good pictures. Email me at polrbear@bellsouth.net if you want me to share my one and only scuba diving joke.
This Summer I felt the "HEAT"and witnessed the ongoing devastation of Climate Change. Just curious. As runners and walkers on this miraculously, beautiful Earth, is anyone concerned about Climate change and if so, are you engaged in any project to help mitigate or reverse the effects? I would be interested in any positive actions that we runners are taking as a group or individually to help mitigate what appears, at least to me, an existential crisis?
Summer was a treat w/ the Olympics on TV. Otherwise was in California for 10 days w/ the family (we live close to DC)- first time in Yosemite, Sequoia national parks and Carmel. Experiencing the beauty and grandiosity of the hills/rocks/waterfalls and sequoia trees was all very humbling - lots of hiking but not much running. Now back and slowly getting back to running after an injury - have become a big fan of Galloway
I've trained with the Galloway method on my longer runs for years now -- I actually got to go for a run with him once here in Atlanta. Really nice guy.
GM Terrell -- Basically Have been running -- about 35 miles a week -- have 2 half marathons and a 10 mile virtual (10/13 -- 43 years from my start at AT&T) to the last Saturday in October --- have been reading Never Finished (David Goggins) as I was unable to complete the 4X4X48 without needing a few extra hours -(. Have done my local Park Run every Saturday. Tomorrow will be my 100th Volunteer event.
I was fortunate enough to be allowed to run again in June after an April shoulder surgery. I have a goal race I am working toward: Maine Half Marathon in Portland on October 6th. I just did 10 miles on Wednesday, so I think I will be okay to do that race (slowly increasing my long runs). My husband and I just saw "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" at the Maine State Music Theater at Bowdoin College. I cannot recommend it enough!! I learned a lot about her life through her music. I have tutored and taught summer school this summer and now look forward to our youngest's wedding mid-October. The weather here in Maine is spectacular... September is my favorite month here.
That's a lot of wonderful stuff, Debby! Really glad to hear your recovery from your shoulder surgery went well -- how did you get back so fast? And, if you're running 10 miles now, you'll DEFINITELY be ready for the Maine Half in October. You're ready now, even! The musical sounds fantastic, btw.
Good morning - it's a beautiful in Northern Virginia - wish I was out running. After a year and a half of not running due to medical problems, it's rough not being to go out on a nice "fall" morning.
My wife and I were able to do a river cruise in Germany - wonderful and relaxing trip. Of course the Olympics T&F were tops! Gave me incentive to prepare to run again! Wanted to do the Senior Olympics here next month, but that's going to have to wait until next year. Still able to keep a positive outlook after 49 years of running!
Weren't they? This year's USA track and field team was the absolute bomb -- they inspired a whole generation of American runners, I think. I'd love to hear more about the Germany river cruise -- and the 49 years of running? How did you start? (Forgive me if you've told me this before)
I started running back in the mid-70s as cross training for ice hockey. Then we got transferred to Southern California and I ended up using hockey as cross training for running - been running ever since, only a tad slower now!
Sorry I forgot to comment on the river cruise. It started in Frankfurt and went along the Rhine and the Moselle. Small boat (100 passengers) -stopped at many interesting towns; lots of good food; very relaxing. This was our 14th river cruise in Europe - highly recommend them!
Yay for you, Dave! I'm registered for the AthHalf. Planning on being in Athens from 10/30 through 11/5. Costs a small fortune coming in from Eugene, OR, but the meet-up will be worth it!!
5K tomorrow … groin sprain on the mend … have plastered TIE-GID on dresser mirror … stands for take it easy-get it done. Will update this. Was in Key West for a couple of days in July.
I finished my seventh novel that is a finalist at the Florida Writers Conference, practiced my violin twice a day, took care of our two foster and healed from two bouts of double pneumonia. Under doctor;'s orders, I am not allowed to run for six months... after watching six days of all our USA runners take medals and set world records... I wanted to scream... I WANT TO RUN AGAIN! and will. In six months anyway...LOL
I know you'll be back, Steve! A friend of mine who had surgery earlier this year on his knee recently re-injured it, and so he has to have the surgery AGAIN. So, take your time! I'd love to hear more about your seventh novel -- what's it about? And can we buy it on Amazon?
Holy moly! That's a LOT (especially given the health constraints) and congratulations! On all of it....
Diana! Good to see you, my friend! 👋 How are things?
I'm GOOD. While I don't want to get ahead of myself--because it is not a sure thing--I pitched to one of the top agents in my category (debut authors)--it was a TOTAL LONG SHOT--but, to my delighted surprise, she requested my full manuscript--has asked for some revisions (that I AGREE WHOLEHEARTEDLY with)--and has invited me to resubmit when I'm done. So I'm back to the keyboard but this time, with a little bit of a potential hope rainbow at the end of the road. (As my mother used to say--that's better than a punch in the nose.)
And you?
I'm so, so happy and excited for you, Diana! I know this is something you've had cooking for a while, so it's awesome to see it come to fruition!!!!
Things are good here, our kids are back in school, and my son and I took a really great trip back in July out to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks -- holy moly they were gorgeous. Got to see bison, moose, wolves, bears, elk, and stay in a couple of the really iconic, authentic old park hotels. Such a cool trip. We also went to the beach for a week, but it was pretty rainy thanks to Tropical Storm Debby -- that's okay, though, we did get a few days outside at the beach. Now I'm just ready for fall!
I'm starting to think about writing a book, or maybe something novella-length, of my own. I'd started a story a couple years ago for my son, and now he just asked me if I'd finished it, so... I need to get cracking :)
This is all great! AND of course I’ll push the writing a book thing…Did you know that Leif Enger (who wrote one of my favorite books, Peace Like A River—his debut, that sold over 1 million copies) wrote it for his family and specifically his asthmatic son? Good things can come from writing for the people you love….Just sayin’
You go girl!! If they want revisions, that means their interested.
Thanks, Steve! (Seriously, the pats on the back are GOLD, so I really appreciate your encouragement.) And the email she wrote was amazing--VERY detailed and constructive feedback--and she even indicated that if she had more bandwidth, she'd take me on as is. So--being a big believer in "optimism" and the old "power of positive thinking" I'm marching forward with a bit more twinkle in my eye.
It will be February before you know it.
No such huge accomplishments as the others. I did get the cataracts removed from my eyes. So delighted that I can see again. . . and, I get my driver's license renewed too, so there's not stopping me now! Myopia is the Pits!! Somehow, I lucked out with an excellent surgeon.
Mainly, I gardened and took care of the herbs and tomatoes which are still going. There is a lot of yard-work that needs to be done before the leaves fall. (They started yesterday--I noticed!) The fall crocus bulbs came the other day--I have to get out and plant them. . . the anthers are good for saffron.
Very little running, but that is life.
Glad that you enjoyed the Wild West--I've always liked it out here!
Hope to make it to Athens. . . :)
I hope so too, Nilima! Let me know how your running goes :)
So good to see your name on THM, Clark! I wondered what happened to you!!
I've mostly been walking, but as Terrell said in his newsletter, Repetitio mater studiorum est,”. . .better get crackin' I've got too much running planned for the upcoming years!
Take care! :)
This summer has involved a lot of running, a fun family vacay to Washington, DC (our 8-year old thinks National Treasure is the best movie ever, so he was pumped to see the Declaration of Independence), a few weeks as a family of four before moving our oldest back into her dorm for year two of college, finally seeing The Decemberists live, graduation parties (one featuring an Elton John impersonator), setting up the hammock in the living room because it was too hot outside (genius move, honestly), and lots of reading.
I'm more than halfway through my marathon training block -- 58 days to go! Tomorrow I've got an 18-miler, thank God for the false fall temps here in eastern NC.
Can I say that I, as a 53-year-old, am probably just as crazy for 'National Treasure' as your 8-year-old? 🤣 My little man loves it too -- we actually are planning to get up to D.C. sometime this fall, so he can see all of that too. Which marathon are you running, btw? And good luck tomorrow with the 18-miler -- you've got this! If you're already at 18, you're well on your way!!
I'm running the Detroit Marathon. I'm super psyched! It will be my first!
When you go to DC, I would highly recommend a stop at the Supreme Court. Whatever you think of it as an institution or the judges themselves, it is a very impressive building and has a great little cafeteria that has good food for decent prices, especially for DC. And if court isn't in session, it's a good place to get away from the crowds.
Thanks! I definitely will. When I was in college, I was a summer intern at our senator's office and I lived in a tiny little apartment just behind Capitol Hill, and got to walk past the Supreme Court everyday. But I never went in! Will definitely check it out -- thanks for that!
Assuming your first marathon … you will do great. Just put one foot in front of the other (or is one foot behind the other)!
It’s been a hot summer in the Phoenix area and I’m looking forward to cooler temperatures! I participated in a summer 5k series; there were 7 5ks every other week around the Valley. It was fun to meet up with the run club to compete in the 5ks. Out of the 7, I placed 1st in my age group twice, placed 2nd in my age group twice and placed 3rd in my age group once - all of this after walking the first event in an ankle brace for a bad 2nd degree sprain. Honestly, I surprised myself. There were approximately 40 women in my age group each race and they are strong to be out there running in this heat and humidity! Also, I started indoor rock climbing. Wow, it’s so much fun! Admittedly, I use my legs to push myself up to the top because I need to build up my upper body strength! So, I started a push up/core blitz streak and on day 45 (push up), on day 37 (core). I’ve never done any kind of workout or run streak. Surprised myself again! I’m grateful to continue to make progress in fitness at my age (52)!!! ‘Til next time!
I have 22 years on you … stay healthy and you will be engaged like I am at 74!
Caring for our daughter who just turned one! It’s been an adjustment for me, being type-A and oriented around performance in both running and career. I’ve had to work through a lot of frustration not being able to focus on the projects that interest me, but also an opportunity for growth in patience, simplicity, and learning to find joy in the growth of our daughter.
Sam, this is awesome! I don't know if I knew you'd had a baby, but I know of what you speak -- it's a HUGE adjustment, isn't it? It's like being born into an entirely new life -- the good thing is, too, you get to have a second childhood, seeing the world through your daughter's eyes. There's really no experience like it -- happy birthday to your daughter!!
Needless to say, that daughter of yours will thank you!
I enjoyed a 3 night backpacking trip into the Mt. Jefferson wilderness in central Oregon. We got lucky and dodged wildfire smoke and the weather was perfect. My summer is not quite over. In one week I leave for the Philippines to go Scuba diving . Hoping to see Thresher Sharks, Whale Sharks and a whole lot more!
I see that the weather cooperated! Very little smoke here in Eugene, if any. We finally got rain--the garden appreciated it. Weather is changing, though!
My goodness, the Philippines! I love diving. . . most I have ever done is on Oahu, though I hope to do more off of Kehei on Maui in March when the whales come. Have a half in March--one I've always wanted to do--Valley to the Sea--starts at the Iao Needle on Maui down to Wailuku.
Ken, that's awesome! I've been scuba diving once, years ago in Crystal River, Florida -- which was fun, but nothing like what you'll experience in the Phillippines, I imagine. Is scuba a big hobby for you?
More power to you … I went scuba diving once … in the deep end of a morel swimming pool as part of a lesson! Get good pictures. Email me at polrbear@bellsouth.net if you want me to share my one and only scuba diving joke.
This Summer I felt the "HEAT"and witnessed the ongoing devastation of Climate Change. Just curious. As runners and walkers on this miraculously, beautiful Earth, is anyone concerned about Climate change and if so, are you engaged in any project to help mitigate or reverse the effects? I would be interested in any positive actions that we runners are taking as a group or individually to help mitigate what appears, at least to me, an existential crisis?
I’m voting come 11/5.
me, too!
Summer was a treat w/ the Olympics on TV. Otherwise was in California for 10 days w/ the family (we live close to DC)- first time in Yosemite, Sequoia national parks and Carmel. Experiencing the beauty and grandiosity of the hills/rocks/waterfalls and sequoia trees was all very humbling - lots of hiking but not much running. Now back and slowly getting back to running after an injury - have become a big fan of Galloway
I've trained with the Galloway method on my longer runs for years now -- I actually got to go for a run with him once here in Atlanta. Really nice guy.
GM Terrell -- Basically Have been running -- about 35 miles a week -- have 2 half marathons and a 10 mile virtual (10/13 -- 43 years from my start at AT&T) to the last Saturday in October --- have been reading Never Finished (David Goggins) as I was unable to complete the 4X4X48 without needing a few extra hours -(. Have done my local Park Run every Saturday. Tomorrow will be my 100th Volunteer event.
Love the consistency, Thomas!!! With the running and the volunteering -- that's simply awesome. Where do your parkruns take place?
Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Run -- Colonial Park -- Somerset, NJ 08873
Hello Thomas … I retired in March after 52+ years with AT&T … great career in engineering. Enjoying swimming, 2days a week at the gym and jogging.
I was fortunate enough to be allowed to run again in June after an April shoulder surgery. I have a goal race I am working toward: Maine Half Marathon in Portland on October 6th. I just did 10 miles on Wednesday, so I think I will be okay to do that race (slowly increasing my long runs). My husband and I just saw "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" at the Maine State Music Theater at Bowdoin College. I cannot recommend it enough!! I learned a lot about her life through her music. I have tutored and taught summer school this summer and now look forward to our youngest's wedding mid-October. The weather here in Maine is spectacular... September is my favorite month here.
That's a lot of wonderful stuff, Debby! Really glad to hear your recovery from your shoulder surgery went well -- how did you get back so fast? And, if you're running 10 miles now, you'll DEFINITELY be ready for the Maine Half in October. You're ready now, even! The musical sounds fantastic, btw.
I follow Jeff Galloway's approach and have for several years. It has worked so well for me and allowed me to make the progress I have since June 8th!!
Saw Beautiful in Miami a couple of years ago … could sit thru it again and again!
Good morning - it's a beautiful in Northern Virginia - wish I was out running. After a year and a half of not running due to medical problems, it's rough not being to go out on a nice "fall" morning.
My wife and I were able to do a river cruise in Germany - wonderful and relaxing trip. Of course the Olympics T&F were tops! Gave me incentive to prepare to run again! Wanted to do the Senior Olympics here next month, but that's going to have to wait until next year. Still able to keep a positive outlook after 49 years of running!
Weren't they? This year's USA track and field team was the absolute bomb -- they inspired a whole generation of American runners, I think. I'd love to hear more about the Germany river cruise -- and the 49 years of running? How did you start? (Forgive me if you've told me this before)
I started running back in the mid-70s as cross training for ice hockey. Then we got transferred to Southern California and I ended up using hockey as cross training for running - been running ever since, only a tad slower now!
Hi Terrell,
Sorry I forgot to comment on the river cruise. It started in Frankfurt and went along the Rhine and the Moselle. Small boat (100 passengers) -stopped at many interesting towns; lots of good food; very relaxing. This was our 14th river cruise in Europe - highly recommend them!
8/24/24 update .. I am registered for the AthHalf and will be in Athens from Saturday 11/2 through 11/4. My 5K went well this morning.
Yay for you, Dave! I'm registered for the AthHalf. Planning on being in Athens from 10/30 through 11/5. Costs a small fortune coming in from Eugene, OR, but the meet-up will be worth it!!
Traveling with my supervisor … my wife of 49 years (on 10/26) … let’s see what Terrell has in store for us!
Great! One always needs a supervisor! How about your cats? Will they come with you?
Should be an interesting run with Terrell along!!!:)
5K tomorrow … groin sprain on the mend … have plastered TIE-GID on dresser mirror … stands for take it easy-get it done. Will update this. Was in Key West for a couple of days in July.
Go Dave! Counting on you being in Athens in November!