been a while

I have been bouncing around a few states over the past few weeks so it has been difficult to write. So, here is an update:

My training took a hit this past week, as I was up at St. Lawrence University to work a track camp hosted by my good friend and former coach Mike Howard. I thought I would have time to get out and put some serious miles in, but I was always a) chasing a camper down b) eating c) napping or d) too tired to go out. I know that sounds lame, and it pretty much is. However, that week was really tiring and my body was just not having it. I did go out for two 9-milers with Mike, although the first was a run-walk as it took place at 8 AM. For those who have never run long distance, changing the time when you go out can make a big difference. I usually run at night, it's when my body seems to be adjusted and ready. Running that morning, my body was like,

"Uh, what is this? Brian? HEY, DOWN HERE! Fine, you don't want to listen? Have fun trying to get us to cooperate for the next hour.  

Sincerely, 

Legs

PS- You're screwed"

I'm sorry, legs, I should have listened to you. It was not fair and I will never neglect you like that again. Actually, I will just ask for your permission, see how you are feeling before I try and use you like that again - Seriously, my b.

I got about 4 miles in and it felt like I had just finished a 5k running as hard as I could. I told mike at the  4 mile mark that I had to stop and walk for a bit, which I did. My whole body was shot, even my lungs were laboring. Now, if we were setting a land speed record I would have understood but that was far from the case. In fact, I don't even think we were jogging as much as shuffling. To be fair, it was the first time so far that I have woken up and gone right into a run. As Legs said earlier, and to quote Beyonce,

"NO NO NO NO NO"

I should start getting up earlier to run, as the Marine Corps Marathon is in the early AM. But, that is not going to happen. Besides, I have run races that early and been fine. I was golden at the Boilermaker, and that started at 8:30, about the same time I went out with Mike. What the deal?

Anyway, enough of that run. I did put in a full 9 miler with Mike and my other buddy and coach, John Newman (new head men's track and field coach at SLU as well as Head Men's XC coach). It was hot and painful, but I got through it. You know how Batman and the Joker are bitter enemies? Yeah, well if humidity wore creepy face paint and had a jacked up mouth, it would be totally along the same lines. I fight on runs in humidity, and my body does not respond well in the least; This run was no exception. 

I was able to get in a few 4 milers at a good pace with Mike, put in a couple more with Newms at one point, but that is it. I know, not good enough for Marathon training. What is worse is that I haven't been on a long run in weeks - especially nothing longer than 15, which needs to happen this weekend. I am going to put in 18 in the next few days, whether my body is ready or not.  We will see what happens!