07/04/07: 8.2 Mile Run: Peavine Falls Run

I put the iPod on shuffle and took off with what seemed like about 400 runners up to Peavine Falls. I guess they were up there; I never saw them. I have always wanted to run this race and finally did. I found references that said this was the 26th and 28th running. But, it was my first. It was tough, but not as tough as the Statue-to-Statue. I am happy to see the time I ran it in. I used the Motorola bluetooth headset and was beginning to get frustrated because it was cutting out a lot. The belt I was wearing that held the iPod such that it was on my back instead of my stomach. Sure enough, that put an end to the cutting out. I had started the race with the player positioned in front. I thoroughly enjoyed this race and will do it again.

Data

Distance:	8.2 Miles
Time:	1:08:32
Heart Rate:	169
Pace:	8:21
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-73° Humidity-76%

07/03/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this run. Since I am blogging this days after the run, I don't remember anything significant to say. So, here's the data:

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:04
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:21
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-73° Humidity-79%

07/01/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Shades Creek Greenway

Judy and I met at the usual 6:30 am for the first time in a bit. Last night was exciting. My 4 year old son got a very tightly compressed towel designed to be expanded in water. So, we ran a sink full of water, put the towel in it, and I instructed him to leave the faucet alone. Off I went to do something. He came down with the expanded towel which was a turtle. Then, we started preparing for a walk to the lake. We were in the basement when I heard my wife get up here quick. There was water coming through the ceiling of our living room. My son had turned the faucet on and left it on. I have posted pictures on Flickr. We will have to replace at least 2 walls and 1 ceiling's worth of white wall. Lesson: never assume a 4 year old will follow rules. If you feel the need to tell them not to do something, you probably already suspect they might. Well, he did.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:17:25
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:06
Weather:	Clear Temperature-81° Humidity-63%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

06/29/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this run. My big news of the day is that I bought an iPhone with the hoard of others. Although, I did not stand in line for longer than 1 1/2 hours. I like the iPhone's convergence of browser, phone, iPod (audio and video), and email. But, it is not without it woes. The headphone jack has a different signature than standard headphones. I had to buy a $10 adapter. The email interface doesn't rotate and I am finding that gmail on the iPod via Safari is better than the built-in client. I was pleased to discover that both my personal and work mail are readily accessible and readable. You can only delete 1 email at a time in the built in client. It wasn't long that I started regretting that, if there was much spam. So, for reading at least, I am sticking with gMail. I haven't needed to compose one yet. I may discover that the email client is better for that. The sync of the iPhone hiccupped a couple of times. So, I learned quickly to only leave it connected long to successfully sync. I am disappointed that not all applications support the rotation feature. I find that I frequently want to switch to a wider, shorter view. But, all-in-all, I like the iPhone and I am pleased. The iPod was not without irritants too. I haven't tried to blog from it yet...

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:32
Heart Rate:	143
Pace:	9:30
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-79%

06/27/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this run. The bluetooth setup worked again, but cut-out some starting at about 45 minutes. So, next time I put it in a plastic bag. I do so wished tech stuff would just work.
Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	55:11
Heart Rate:	146
Pace:	9:11
Weather:	Clear Temperature-71° Humidity-84%

06/26/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this run. We are in the midst of a stage 3 drought, whatever that means. It does mean, accordingly to local ordinances, fines for using sprinklers to water yards and such. Yet, I saw plenty of evidence that my neighbors are simply ignoring the rules. And, I took a bath on Sunday after my long run. Now, I am feeling guilty. After reading Jared Diamond's books (Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed and Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies), I worry when I see people, myself included, act irrationally in the face of obvious resource shortages. I turned my sprinkler system off today. Well, I am wrong! The notice from the mayor only applies to customers of the Birmingham Water Works; that does not include us. Our rules are more liberal.
Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:32
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:10
Weather:	Clear Temperature-74° Humidity-74%

06/24/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

Judy is traveling, so it was just me. It was the first long run with the bluetooth enabled iPod. It did really well for the first hour. But, it did cut out some for the last 35 minutes. Not sure if it was electronic interference or environmental (sweat). Next time, I will try enclosing it in a sandwich bag. I am all caught up on podcasts I will listen to while running, so I put the music collection on shuffle. It was a enjoyable and steady run.

I fixed a number of bugs and added some informative columns (e.g., day of the week) to the running log spreadsheet and updated the Mercedes 2008 training log as well.
Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:35:56
Heart Rate:	158
Pace:	9:08
Weather:	Clear Temperature-81° Humidity-49%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

06/22/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I put the iPod on shuffle, turned on the bluetooth and the headset, and off I went on this early morning run. The new gear is still performing well. The new quest ins to find a case that really fits well since the iPod with bluetooth is bigger than cases I currently have that are for iPod only. I bought a case that is designed for a CD player and it is really too big. I just ordeded two things from Amphipod (Micropak Explorer^TM and Airflow MP^TM that I hope will work.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	25:30
Heart Rate:	156
Pace:	8:30
Weather:	Clear Temperature-71° Humidity-57%

06/20/07: 5 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to C C Chapman's Accident Hash episode labeled Wedding Mixed Tape 1. It was a great mix and I thoroughly enjoyed running to the selection. I watched Adam Curry's video documenting his flight to Cannes on my iPod later. This is the first time I watched a video on the iPod. It was cool.

Well, the Motorola Bluetooth Active Headphones S9 and the TEN Technology naviPlay Bluetooth Stereo Adapter for iPod worked well together! So, despite my woes trying to get the headphones to work with the computer, they did work for the main purpose I asked for them. I haven't run with them yet, but I am not anticipating any trouble.

Data

Distance:	5
Time:	45:42
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:08
Weather:	Few Cloudy Temperature-71° Humidity-90%

06/19/2007: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Another morning run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. I am finally back home and back into the routine; well, maybe. This Nylon dude on the Daily Source Code is generating lots of listener feedback and I have to say he can sure get on one's nerves. But, hey it's entertaining.

I got a Motorola Bluetooth Active Headphones S9 for Father's day. I bought a KENSINGTON 33348 Bluetooth USB 2.0 Adapter and plugged into my Toshiba Portege M200 (yes, the one I loaded with Vista) and guess what! It sucks. That's right, I hear a 1 sec snippet of a continuously playing stream every few minutes. This is not a good sign. I asked for the headphones for use with my iPod, so I am hoping that when the adapter for that comes that I don't discover similar results. I am so tired of running with wires hanging from my head. I have ordered TEN Technology naviPlay Bluetooth Stereo Adapter for iPod which I am hoping proves to work well.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:38
Heart Rate:	146
Pace:	9:12
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-74° Humidity-87%

06/13-16/07: Running Around the South

I have been traveling all around the south this week; some for work and some for pleasure. I started off in Greensboro, GA at the Ritz-Carlton. I ran a 3 and 6 miler while there along the Linger Longer jogging/biking trail while listening to the latest Daily Source Code episodes. It was peaceful, hilly, and pretty. The Timex Time and Distance system died on the return route (I ran an out and back). The time indicated I ran for 1 hour, but I don't believe I ran only 6 miles if that it is accurate as I felt I was running strong, not slow. Damn technology.

This resort was beautiful, but thanks to work I had little time to explore it. Mighty expensive through. And, even with a $300 + room rate they still charged extra for Internet connections. Why is that the likelihood of paying extra for Internet grows with the room rate? This resort seemed well suited to golfing and all things lake related. It was also quite peaceful.

After Greensboro, GA, I was off to Elkmont, TN in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to see the synchronized fireflys. We went here last year and I missed the fireflys because my young son and I got too tired. My older son met my in-laws (mother, father, and brother -inlaws) at the Elkmont camp ground. We swam, hiked, eat, and played. It was a lot of fun and I got 1 run in. I did not get in my 8.5 miler as I slept too late and trying to get it in would have offset everyone else's plans. I did get in a vigorous hike and some minor swimming during the day, so it wasn't and exercise free day anyway. We visited Laurel Falls and some trails around the Sugarlands Visitor Center on Saturday. On Sunday, some of us hiked to Catarack Falls and we all hung out at the Sinks for a bit before heading home. My brother-in-law and his family stayed at the campground for 3 more days.

Data

06/13/07: Greensboro, GA

Distance:	3.069 Miles
Time:	29:01
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:27
Weather:	Clear Temperature-61° Humidity-94%

06/14/07: Greensboro, GA

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	1:00:10
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	10.01
Weather:	Overcast Temperature-63° Humidity-94%

06/16/07: Elkmont,TN

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:51
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:37
Weather:	Clear Temperature-60° Humidity-94%

6/10/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

Judy met me at 6:30 am and off we went. The temperature was just cool enough for a comfortable start. I started off ranting about receiving a notice of a citation for parking in Auburn, Alabama. I got bit carried away, but there you go. The violation happened last October. I wasn't there. I sold the Jeep I had 2 years ago. The ticket is against the license plate number I had on the Jeep when I owned it. So, I am not sure how this will get straightened out yet. It was a good run and I had a good chat with some of the local runners after the run. Then, it was off to get behind the lawn mower.

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:38:52
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:24
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-64%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

06/08/07: 7.5 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to show 100 of Phedippidations. Steve focused on things related to why he runs and used the opportunity to reflect on 100 shows to introduce us more to himself. I enjoyed the show and he mentioned Richard Dawkins who I had read about earlier this year in a Wired Magazine article, The Church of the Non-Believers. What struck me most in this context, was not the core theistic/atheistic arguments, but more about the notion that respecting religious faith because, well, it's religious faith can lead to some startling conclusions. Like respecting the beliefs of Bin Laden. Whether declarations of the pope or fatwahs of a cleric, we must consider their impact on human behavior and the reasonableness of that impact and its results. As the article says, some types of worship and practices are inconsistent with basic rights. There may be a slippery slope to climb separately the good from the bad. But, I do respect Steve's choices and like the author of the aforementioned article, I am not prepared to take the position of the atheists interviewed for the article including Dawkins.

I bumped into Larry and Prince, a couple of runners in the neighborhood, after 2 laps around the lake, so I joined them and extended this run by 2.5 miles. It was fun to chat with them. I hadn't run with them since the Mercedes Marathon in February.

Data

Distance:	7.4811
Time:	1:08:09
Heart Rate:	163
Pace:	9:06
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-77° Humidity-85%

6/5/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Another morning run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. I keep getting up earlier and earlier. Not to run, but to work. Yikes! I am getting up now at 3:00 am. and going until about 6:00 pm. I cook 2 meals and exercise in there too, but it do make for a long day. Man, I remember the days when I did something every night. As in did something just for me or for the family. Not anymore. I do that stuff on the weekend if I am lucky. Monday-Friday is work and do life's essentials. That's all. OK, enough whining and no I don't want cheese.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	26:58
Heart Rate:	151
Pace:	8:59
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-69%

06/03/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Shades Creek Greenway

Judy and I met at the usual 6:30 am. We haven't run together in a couple of weeks so it was good to see her and have our usual chat. The Army folks were out there again. I warned Judy that last time it forced me to run a much faster pace. I was a little slower today, but still faster than usual. She is still battling a little knee pain and claims that I threatening to leave her behind. I know from experience that she can turn it on in a flash.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:15:19
Heart Rate:	161
Pace:	8:51
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-79%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

06/02/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Another morning run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. The Hit Test is back! This was one of my favorite parts of Adam's show that he had discontinued due to fears of legal action given that the songs were owned by "traditional media". Apparently, he has found a legal way for it continue. Way cool!

I usually have trouble finding healthy food while traveling especially if on the highway in a car. I stopped at a Wendy's for the first time in years. And, they have a menu that can support a healthy diet very well and it was tasty (salads and some healthy sides-ignore the unhealthy sides).

And, I forgot to mention after listening to show 98 of Phedippidations that I will NOT stop using my iPod and ear phones during races. Further, I was surprised that this was the first item in Steve's list. I did agree with most of the common sense rules listed by Steve in this show about running etiquette. But, I believe one can maintain attention and set the volume such that one can respect others and such while running with some entertainment in the ear. I guess I am a bit defensive on this one. Sort of like a pet peeve. Every time Runner's World does an article about the best music to run to, best ear phones, best mp3 player, etc, the letters fly-in. "I can't believe you printed that article that promotes a very unsafe ....". Leave me alone, let 'em review 'em, and stay away from my ears, I say.

And, in response to Steve's concern about the quality of his show as expressed in episode 99. STEVE, your show is awesome! It is OK, that we disagree on the ear phone thing. ;)

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:38
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:12
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-72° Humidity-81%

05:/31/07: 6 Mile Run: Columbia, SC

Yet, another run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. I am here for meetings with colleagues and to teach an architecture class for a group of new employees, most of which are right out of school. Fortunately for them and me, I had 2 very talented people who worked for me volunteer to back me up if I needed it. I was going to try to teach the whole class, but decided near the end that these 2 people would do the deeper dives better than I. I wanted these new folks to get the best start we can provide. It was a good decision.

My rental car has Sirius satelite radio built in. So, I have it tuned to Fox News and last night on the way to the hotel, I heard O'Reilly talking to McCain. McCain said that we needed to keep the fight going in Iraq because "they" would surrender before we do. The "they" to which he was referring includes the extremists. And, anyone that believes the extremists will surrender or fade away is very mistaken in my opinion. I was surprised to hear this from McCain. Although, I lean towards being a Democrat, I have generally found that McCain well informed and reasoned.

I registered for the Phedippidations Worldwide Half Marathon. I will be running this on my 50th birthday. I registered with the nickname WayPsycho. Steve, if you are reading, I recommend showing real names on the Entrants page. That would be my preference anyway.

Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	54:45
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:07
Weather:	Overcast 70° Humidity-68%
Route

05/30/07: 3 Mile Run: Columbia, SC

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this early morning run. Nothing much to say right now. So, here's the data.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:03
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:20
Weather:	Clear 60° Humidity-86%
Route

05/28/07: 11.5 Mile Run: Chattanooga, TN

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this run while out having fun with the family. It is the second time we have all gone to Chattanooga and it is still quite fun.Chattanooga is very family friendly. We visited the aquarium, Ruby Falls (a large waterfall in the middle of a cave), Rock City, and rode the Incline Railroad (See Lookout Mountain for more information). We stayed at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo which our son just loved. We ate at the Station House at the hotel which included live music where the servers were the singers. It was a grand time. Busy, but fun.

Last time we went to Chattanooga, Betsy, my wife, had told me there was a trail along the river, Riverpark Chattanooga, that went on for miles. So, I set out to the river found a trail and was disappointed when it ended within 1-2 miles. I asked one of servers at a restaurant we ate at about it and she said I needed to go a little further down the river to start on the trail in a place where I could go for a long distance. She was right and it was a wonderful run. It looks the intent is to connect up a total of 20 continuous worth of trail, but I would estimate that something like 8-10 miles is open now. I thoroughly enjoyed the run. I saw fishers, rowers, cyclists, and a few other runners. I ran from an early part of the trail near downtown to the Chickamauga Dam.

Data

Distance:	11.45 Miles
Time:	1:46:00
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:15
Weather:	Clear 62° Humidity-86%

05/25/07: Log of 3 Runs and a Rave: Neighborhood

More runs during which I listened to the Daily Source Code and Phedippidations. I didn't shave all week. I didn't blog during the week. Yes, you can guess. I did work. And, work, work, work. The all consuming WORK. But, I guess that's the price of living. Earn and spend the dimes. The work is challenging right now, but I do like challenges. So, it isn't all bad. And, is a lot good.

A couple of the runs below were in the afternoon. Man, I forgot how hot it can get. Steve, from Phedippidations, did a show on running etiquette. Number one on his list, don't wear headphones during races. Forget about it, Steve. I disagree that it is a violation of etiquette. That said, there are times when the volume should be off or very low. Like during announcements and such. Now, the passing in the chute thing (one runner passes another after the finish line, but before the officials take the tag from the runners number), that is BAD, BAD, BAD. Some good pointers in general though. However, I will be using my iPod for all races.

Steve also noted that his greatest single influence in his life was his dad. Upon reflection, I realized that I am a narcissist. The greatest single influence in my life is me. As I look back over nearly 50 years, there are numerous people that have influenced me. In fact, I can think of individual lessons learned from some of these influencers. But, the constant and most significant influence remains me. I define my essence and I plot my course through a sea of influences. But, I have to admit that I do feel some jealousy for those that have had the fortune to be born to good parents that can be cornerstones for life. STOP, no pity! I am doing great. The turmoil my parents created, created the mix of circumstances that helped to launch my life. I think P. Diddy said something like "as I look back at those I once hated, I have to thank them for being teachers."

Data

05/25/07: Afternoon

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:42
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:13
Weather:	Partly cloudy 87° Humidity-34%

05/23/07: Afternoon

Distance:	5 Miles
Time:	47:48
Heart Rate:	146
Pace:	9:33
Weather:	Few clouds 82° Humidity-40%

05/22/07: Morning

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	26:36
Heart Rate:	144
Pace:	8:52
Weather:	Clear 70° Humidity-57%

CI, Source Control, & The Human Side of Software Development

Although it is less obvious than it may have once been, I continue to listen to technology related podcasts. I listened to 2 podcasts on .Net Rocks recently that were very good.

• CI and Source Control with Eric Sink and Martin Woodward
  
• Human Side of Software Development with Jeff Atwood

The first was a shot in the arm for the importance of continuous integration. Erik and Martin were enthusiastic and informative. I am now motivated to get the builds for the enterprise class software with which I work to build in 1 step and to jump in to CI. Jeff Atwood's talked about his blog, Coding Horror, and mentioned several topics like the "Fizz Buzz" test that highlighted the importance of remembering humans as we work on software. While he is more prolific with his technical based blogging than I will ever be, I share his passion for computer science. Great shows!

I do keep my podcast listing log fairly up-to-date, by the way.

5/20/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Shades Creek Greenway

No Judy. She is out of town. So, I took the iPod. I listened to the latest Daily Source Code (DSC) on the way to Brownell. During the show, Adam played a new podsafe song by Emerson Hart who used to be in Tonic. I like Tonic and have Lemon Parade on the iPod, so I played it when the DSC finished. Adam is on his second day of no cigarettes. I hope he makes it. I quite 13-14 years ago. It is a great thing to stop doing.

I have added a link and a copy of the image for signing up for the Phedippidations Worldwide Half Marathon. I ran it last year and this year it will be on my 50th birthday. It's a very cool idea to have so many people running on the same day in so many places for the same event.

As for today's run, I felt good and ran fast. The US Army National Guard was out running on the trail too. I have to admit I got motivated to pass them just to show that this civilian is in good shape. I know it was silly, but it felt good and look at the results below.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:09:25
Heart Rate:	158
Pace:	8:10
Weather:	Clear Temperature-54° Humidity-72%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

05/18/07: 3 Mile Run: Columbia, SC

I listened to the Daily Source Code. Finishing up a hard week on the job at my group's main office. It was good to see people and make personal connections that enhance the normal virtual connections; I work remote. I had 2 days with customers as well. I learned a lot about what our customers want and need. It means more work, but if and my fellow team members are successful, it will be rewarding.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	26:19
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	8:46
Weather:	Overcast 61° Humidity-94%
Route

05/15,16/07: 3 & 6 Mile Runs: Columbia, SC

More runs during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. I am here for meetings with colleagues and customers. We are in the midst of significant change, so times are still tense, stressful, and busy. But, I guess that is why I get paid.

Data

05/15/07

Distance:	3.225 Miles
Time:	28:44
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	8:54
Weather:	Clear skies 51° Humidity-92%
Route

04/26/07

Distance:	6.048 Miles
Time:	55:28
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:10
Weather:	Clear 63° Humidity-81%
Route

05/13/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

Judy has been struggling with some knee pain. So, she ran the first 4 miles with me and then I was on my own. I didn't take the iPod, so I ran while listening to my surroundings. The run felt great. I heard a huge bang at about 55 minutes along Edgewood Blvd. There was a runner going the opposite direction that was virtually at the same spot as the sound from which there was smoke who didn't seem to think anything was wrong judging by her reaction. But, man it was loud. Scared me. It was very humid. I weighed 153 lbs. at the end of the run. That is about 6 lbs less than I have been measuring the last few mornings! It was a good run though.

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:40:03
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:31
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-64%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

05/12/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Another morning run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. I had planned to run 3.1 miles yesterday at the Zoo Run here in Birmingham with my son. But, thunderstorms came in and they canceled the race after we had signed up and waited for 1.5 hours. It was fun to be out and we played at the zoo for a little bit anyway. It was a shame as this would have been my son's first race. He was excited at the idea. :(

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:56
Heart Rate:	143
Pace:	9:18
Weather:	Clear Temperature-65° Humidity-90%

05/09/07: 5 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Another morning run during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. It was nice to be reminded that my life is less glamourous than Adam Curry's. OK, just kidding, but clearly he has more resources than I do. Must be nice.

Newline: Runner Saves Turtle

That's right. There was a turtle in the middle of the road and I just know that if I hadn't moved him, he would have been crushed. I hope he took a lesson and stayed of the road the rest of the day. He did piss all over the place when I picked him up. I also saw some really big fish in our lake.

Data

Distance:	5
Time:	47:30
Heart Rate:	143
Pace:	9:30
Weather:	Clear Temperature-55° Humidity-80%

05/08/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

The wife is back home and I am back to running in the early morning. I listened to the Daily Source Code.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:32
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:10
Weather:	Clear Temperature-58° Humidity-55%

05/06/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Shades Creek Greenway

Judy and I met at 6:30 am. But, there was a twist. My 4 year old son went with me. I also took the running stroller. So, I did my long run while pushing him in the stroller. It was a workout, but worth it. He behaved very well. He just chatted with Judy and I the whole way. The weather was beautiful and it was a great way to start the day. We normally do the Crawfish Boil. But, with Betsy out of town, I missed it this year. :( And, Barenaked Ladies, Fuel, Collective Soul, Cracker, and Soul Asylum played. Man, this would have a been a great time!

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:21:06
Heart Rate:	150
Pace:	9:32
Weather:	Clear Temperature-69° Humidity-81%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

05/04/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

My wife is traveling. So, I've been taking care of my son alone. I ran just before it was time to pick him up. I had a 7:30 am meeting this morning. Thus, today has been a lesson in time management. But, I got through it OK. He and I have lots planned for this weekend and I am looking forward to the bonding time.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:44
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:14
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-68° Humidity-84%

05/02/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the latest Phedippidations during this late afternoon run. This episode focused on runners' first experiences with road races, especially marathons. The point Steve was making was that these events were like rites of passage, he didn't use this term. Like rites of passage, runners never forget the first race, the first 1/2 marathon, or the first marathon. I can tell you that I nearly cried at the end of my first marathon. It was a deeply emotional experience. The only thing that stopped me was the marine saying "congratulations sir". I couldn't cry in front of a marine, by God.

I caught wind of the HD DVD secret code hooplah. What a hoot! Just goes to show that you should piss off a geek! One of buddies in grad school stole my Mac and left a ransom note. (I was the geek he pissed off). I went to his computer and changed all colors (foreground and background) to black after memorizing the key strokes to undo my changes. And, left a note indicating that if he wanted access to his Thesis which he was to defend in a few weeks, my Mac needed to be returned. He said he even cleaned the Mac for me. LOL. Oh yeah, this was before Windows was much to think about. Imagine a purely text OS!

Data

Distance:	6
Time:	57:43
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:37
Weather:	Few Clouds Temperature-81° Humidity-38%

05/01/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

All caught up on podcasts, so I put the iPod on Shuffle and let the music flow. It was fun. Too busy to ponder, so here's the data...

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	26:40
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	8:53
Weather:	Clear Temperature-59° Humidity-81%

04/29/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

Judy had to travel. So, I ran this one alone. The weather was beautiful. I put the iPod on my running favorites playlist and shuffle. I heard too much Brian Adams, lol. And, I discovered that Santana is good for running. Other than that, nothing spectacular happened.

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:36:29
Heart Rate:	152
Pace:	9:11
Weather:	Clear Temperature-60° Humidity-78%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

Finished Seeds of Hate

Well, I finally finished this book. It was a slow, but interesting read. Lawrence painstakingly walks the reader through a large number of events in Lebanon that ultimately ended with the US's complete abandonment of the area. I found the book demonstrated the steadfastness of those many would call our enemies. My quest to understand the differences between the cultures that are predominantly Muslim and ours continues. This book did help provide insight into some of the historical precedents that continue to feed the fervor that we watch unfold in the middle east. A good read. I have started Let It Be Morning by Sayed Kashua. I loved his first book, Dancing Arabs, and look forward to this one too. I think reading his novels also helps me get a more intuitive understanding of the middle east and the psyche of those who live there.

04/27/07: 4 Mile Run: Columbia, SC

A very early morning run (4:00 am), during which I listened to the Daily Source Code and the start of the second show about Steve Runner's running of the 111th running of the Boston Marathon on Phedippidations. Got a hoot out of Adam's reference to a statement that Cheryl Crow apparently made about how many sheets of toilet paper one should use, like 1 square. She claims it was a joke and it appears it got attention, lol.

I watched the Democratic candidate debate that was held in Orangeburg, SC last night. I gotta say, I have felt that the choice to go to Iraq was the wrong choice from the very beginning. But, I can also say that it doesn't feel right for us to leave a complete mess behind by simply pulling out either. I have not been able to put enough thought into what I think might be the right thing to do at this point. What a terrible situation we helped create. It is just sickening.

Data

Distance:	4 Miles
Time:	38:01
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:17
Weather:	Clear skies 59° Humidity-90%
Route

04/23,26/07: 3 & 6 Mile Runs: Columbia, SC

More runs during which I listened to the Daily Source Code. Still cranking and cranking at work, so I will be brief and just get down the data...

Data

04/23/07

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:21
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:21
Weather:	Clear skies 54° Humidity-90%
Route

04/26/07

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	56:50
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:28
Weather:	Partly Cloudy 65° Humidity-87%
Route

04/21/07: 9.3 Mile Run: Statue-To-Statue Run

I participated in the annual Statue-To-Statue run here in Birmingham. This is a hard, hilly run from the Vulcan statue to the Liberty statue. Yet again, they gave out a high-tech, moisture wicking short sleeve shirt. I definitely approve. I don't think the water stops are frequent enough, but that's alright. I have learned to expect that so I pack my own gatorade just as I do on my Sunday long runs. I put the iPod on shuffle and just let the music run.

I did listen to the latest Phedippidations while waiting for the race to start. I enjoyed hearing Steve talk about his experience. I am extremely pleased that he seems to have taken such a positive attitude about it. It would be good if he could find away for us listeners to get emails of his progress without all of the banter between the listeners. I turned of the alerts during the race due to the number of emails coming in. For those that like to do that, it is wonderful. I just wanted to track Steve's progress. I relied on the "F5", refresh, button and hung out on the Boston Marathon site where I entered his bib number to watch his results. It was fun. I did feel like I was part of his running.

Data

Distance:	9.3 (15K)
Time:	1:20:48 (1:25:55 last year)
Heart Rate:	Forgot the monitor!
Pace:	8:41
Weather:	Clear Temperature: 59° Humidity: 65%
Route

04/18/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened the latest CD I purchased during this afternoon run. Rascal Flatts caught my attention thanks to the movie "Cars". Its a good CD. Who would have thunked of a reggae-country fusion. And, backwards is just funny. Great CD. It was a warm, but good run. Data Distance: 6 Time: 54:09 Heart Rate: 156 Pace: 9:01 Weather: Partly Cloudy Temperature-74° Humidity-22%

04/17/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Yesterday's shooting of 32 students at Virginia Tech is just horrible. I went to school there for 2 years and it is a beautiful place and a wonderful school. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones. I ran today listening to the Daily Source Code as hosted by MarkYoshimoto Nemcoff from Pacific Cost Highway. Adam Curry is on vacation. Mark sure likes to cuss, but is quite entertaining. I passed a suffering and tiny rabbit during the run. It was in the middle of the road and clearly having trouble trying to get upright and move. I moved it off of the road. I later thought that since it seemed as if its death was certain and it was suffering, maybe I should have put it out of its misery. Not sure I did the right thing. Poor little creature. Steve, of Phedippidations, ran the Boston Marathon yesterday. He trained hard and was confident that he would ran one of his fastest, if not the fastest, marathons he has run. He did not achieve his goal. He is obviously disappointed. But, for those of us that run and listen to him regularly, it is hard not to empathize with him. I sure hope he keeps his chin up and presses on. He finished and in a time I consider very respectful. I followed his progress all day. I even calculated his splits and leg times as I did my own when I ran. He and I share similar results with an incredible slow down in the last 6-8 miles. I can't way to hear his analysis of the results. And, I sure hope he doesn't let it get him down.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	28:19
Heart Rate:	143
Pace:	9:26
Weather:	Clear Temperature-42° Humidity-86%

04/15/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

It was too wet for Judy. I made it at 6:30 am, but did not have enough clothing with me. I dressed for the temperature, but it was wet and windy. So, I decided to head home and come back out when I had the right clothing. I got out again about 11:30 am. It was still code, wet, and windy, but I was dressed for it. I listened to show 92B of Phedippidations which is the last one until after Steve runs the Boston Marathon tomorrow. I do hope he does as well as he hopes. I need to work up the energy to get some more work done. So, off to it...

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:39:20
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:27
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-44° Humidity-63% Wind: 22mph with gusts to 31mph
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

04/14/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I didn't make it out yesterday as planned. So, I got a run in before I went to the gym for Muscleworks, a group exercise class where I was the only male. I listened to shuffled music.

Rant: Man did I go off on a rant on the expense reporting system we have. It never fails that I have to fax my receipts over and over and over and over again. I literally lose hours try to file expense reports. Well, I have getting faxes through but only the cover pages were showing up. The help desk told me, on my first call, that I have to submit before I can see all of the receipts and that it had been this way since our last upgrade. I know when that upgrade took place and have filed many times since without this problem. So, I knew it was wrong. So, I waited a few hours and called again. This call ended in what must have been the problem. Our system spots the beginning of an expense report by noticing a bar code. One of my receipts had a bar code! Silly me; I should have caught that myself. Anyway, it was a comfortable run with the rain threatening, but not arriving.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	28:47
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:35
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-54° Humidity-53%

04/12/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

A morning run during which I listened to Phedippidations. This episode was about the race at the Boston Marathon during which Salazar and Beardsley ran side by side until the end when Salazar won. I have to admit that running while listening to this was incredibly inspiring. Steve did an excellent production job on this one.

Data

Distance:	6
Time:	56:25
Heart Rate:	155
Pace:	9:24
Weather:	Clear Temperature-42° Humidity-89%

04/10/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Still trying to get caught up at work. Thus, the stress level is still high, but I forced myself to get out the door for this run. I did have to put it off until the afternoon though. But, I did feel good to run in the warmth of 65°. I finished up the latest Daily Source Code (DSC) then switched over to shuffled music on the iPod. I do so wish the iPod had a "Add to Selection" or something like that on the device itself. Why? Because, when I am about to go out the door for a run, I don't want to go to the computer to add a few entries to the playlist to ensure I have enough content to play for the length of the run. Today, I had to stop when the DSC finished and select to play something else because the DSC is in my "My Channel" playlist. This playlist is just a list of the podcasts that I subscribe too and I only listen to them once.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	28:34
Heart Rate:	150
Pace:	9:31
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-65° Humidity-39%

04/08/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Demopolis, AL

I ran a midday run listening to shuffled selections of music after I finished up the lastest Phedippidations. The weather was perfect and I had picked out a circular route. I spent most of the time contemplating how to best handle several situations at work. Not the least of which is how I need to delegate better so more work gets done and I am not the one doing it.

Data

Distance:	8.529
Time:	1:16:49
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:00
Weather:	Clear Temperature-52° Humidity-22%
Route

04/07/07: 3 Mile Run: Demopolis, AL

Well, it's been a busy day, but I did start with a run. I also added a wireless network at my in-law's house. So, I can work all Easter weekend :( It is cool to have wireless access to the Internet from here, but I would rather be playing. Sometimes thinks just come in faster than I can get them out. As is usually the case, setting up the network was more difficult than expected. First sign of trouble was that the router assumed ethernet access to the modem. The modem had 2 ports: USB and ethernet. And, it became clear that you used one or the other, not both. The computer did not have a network card and was connected to the modem with USB. So, off to Walmart. Yes! Walmart to buy geek toys. Of course, they had it. So, installed the network card.

Things are still not done. I wanted to make sure I didn't break anything and I have never messed with DSL before. So, I contacted BellSouth via their online chat help as pointed to by the installed help client on the computer. And, the person at the other end did, in fact, tell me everything I needed to know except one thing. I should have verified that I knew the user name and password as configured for the PPPoE settings. I never messed with PPPoE before either. Here are the basic steps:

• Access the modems administration page via IP
• Set it to "Ethernet Bridge" instead of "PPPoE"
• Disable its DHCP
• Turn everything off
• Connect the Modem to the router's WAN port via ethernet
• Connect the computer to the router
• Turn everything on and set up router

The last step is where I bumped into the problem with not knowing the user name and password. The default settings did not provide Internet access. Knowing that there were PPPoE settings on the DSL Modem that I undid led me to look for a setting for such on the router. I found it by "Internet Connection Type" and selected it from the dropdown. Then, I needed the username and password to complete the setup. My in-laws and I managed to guess enough to figure it out. And, it works! It only took 2-3 hours.

Then, I discover that my power adapter for my laptop won't work. I think it is the cord that plugs into the adapter to connect to the computer and into the transformer (or whatever it is called). So, off to RadioShack (Demopolis is a small town so no Best Buy or such). They didn't have a replacement cord for my Targus unit, but had a similar setup of a different brand. These univesal laptop adapters are not cheap either!

I listened to the last of 2 podcasts: Daily Source Code and Phedippidations.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	27:27
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:09
Weather:	Clear Temperature-35° Humidity-50%
Route

4/05/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I logged this too long after the run to remember anything spectacular or interesting... Oh wait, yes it was cold....

Data

Distance:	6
Time:	56:24
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:24
Weather:	Clear Temperature-42° Humidity-58%

4/03/07: 3 Mile Run: Blythewood, SC

Still on the road...

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:36
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:12
Weather:	Partly cloudy 62° Humidity-90%
Route

4/01/07: 3 Mile Run: Folly Beach, SC

I ran a short run on the beach. The weather was beautiful. My legs were a bit sore from yesterday's race, but it felt good to loosen them up a bit. The sand made for a good workout.

Data

Distance:	3
Time:	30:38
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	10:12
Weather:	Clear Temperature-57° Humidity-89%

3/31/07: 6.2 Milie Run: Cooper River Bridge Run

My friends, Susan and Teresa, and I drove from Folly Beach, SC to the starting line of the Cooper River Bridge Run at 6:00 am. This is our 11th running in 12 years. First thing to note, is that the time to leave Folly is 6:00 am. We go through this ritual of "what time should we leave" every year. Here it is recorded to hopefully help us remember next year.

We started off awkwardly. Susan had her backpack with her in our starting line car. It was intended for the finish line car. Yes, the route is a 1-way, over the bridge. I, on the other hand, put my tune belt in the finish line car. So, no music for the run for me. But, judging by the pace I maintained, it was a good thing. The weather was perfect. I felt strong the entire way. I was very conscious of the pace and ran a negative split. Man, if only I had run this smart for the Mercedes Marathon. But, hey today was good. And, with the stress I have been under, this was just what I needed.

Data

Distance:	6.2
Time:	49:45
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	8:01
Weather:	Overcast Temperature-53° Humidity-80%

3/29/07: 6 Mile Run: Blythewood, SC

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this early morning run. On of the folks that calls in calls himself "Nylon" as in a New Yorker that works in London. He is a bit of a hard ass and is giving Adam the business. I was thinking someone should tell him to take his fingernail polish and fix his run. OK, not that clever, but it made me laugh while I was runing.

I used my regular belt to hold my iPod today. I should have thought about this last time. It worked just fine. I wouldn't want to do this regularly as I sure the belt would prefer less salty and wet conditions. But, it was better than silence. The run felt good and the weather was beautiful.

Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	57:13
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:32
Weather:	Partly Cloudy 61° Humidity-87%
Route

03/27/07: 3 Mile Run: Blythewood, SC

Well, I forgot my tunebelt. So, no iPod for the run :( The weather was perfect; the sky was dark; the road was lonely. But, I was out there. I sure wish I could read the Timex "Speed + Distance" watch when it is dark with either the built in backlight or the light I carry without stopping. But, I can't. Very frustrating.

Heard some interesting quips in podcasts lately:

Adam Curry and the Daily Source Code, "If you can't cover it up, turn it up."
Tim O'Reilly, paraphrasing a quote, "Inventers need a long view as it is NOT when the time at which a invention is invented that matters, but when the invention will be used that matters."

Data

Distance:	3.098 Miles
Time:	28:36
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:13
Weather:	Clear skies 58° Humidity-90%
Route

03/25/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Shades Creek Greenway

Judy and I met at 6:30 am. The weather was beautiful enough to run in a singlet (think tank top) and shorts. We ran a pretty good pace and we chin wagged (talked alot) for the entire run. Next weekend is the Cooper River Bridge Run, so no long run in Birmingham.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:18:44
Heart Rate:	156
Pace:	9:15
Weather:	Clear Temperature-61° Humidity-78%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

03/23/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the latest editions of the Daily Source Code. A lot of talk about the Bum Rush the Charts thing. It is amazing to see how some people get so worked on one side or another of a point of view. Some are slamming the campaign for assuming people are stupid. Some are slamming it for being commercial. No one seems to be just taking it at face value. I am taking it at face value. I participated just to be one of the minions and see what happens.

Distance:	3
Time:	27:17
Heart Rate:	153
Pace:	9:45
Weather:	Few clouds Temperature-77° Humidity-33%

03/20-21/07: 3, 6 Mile Runs: Neighborhood

I listened to the latest editions of the Daily Source Code and Phedippidations. The Phedippidations episode was about Runner's Knee and was very interesting. If you have a any problems with your knee and you run, you should check it out. I am getting excited about Steve's upcoming quest epic as he prepares for and runs the Boston Marathon again. Good luck Steve. Your training seems to be going just exactly as you would have hoped. I hope the new program you tried proves to be the magic for the PR. Dare I say "Good luck". ;)

I am finding myself extremely challenged at work. It is nice to be considered a creative, out-of-the-box thinker, but for really hard problems it can be intimidating and stressful. Yes, exciting too. But, I am feeling the pressure these days. It is making relaxing and balancing life a bit difficult. But, what can one do. There are bills to pay and more on the way.

Data

03/20/07

Distance:	3
Time:	27:28
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:49
Weather:	Clear Temperature-56° Humidity-64%

03/21/07

Distance:	6
Time:	57:51
Heart Rate:	163
Pace:	9:38
Weather:	Clear Temperature-58° Humidity-28%

iTunes Will Sell You a Song & Not Let You Play It

On March 22, 2007, I bum rushed the charts at iTunes like many other folks that listen to podcasts. Imagine my surprise after purchasing a song from my Toshiba when I got this message upon syncing up my iPod:

Hey Apple! How about warning me of useless purchases before you take my money? Novell concept, I'm sure. I am sure I can figure out how to authorize the computer, again. But, what a pain in the ass. Imagine thinking I would want to purchase from where I can't use.

iTunes Deletes Podcast files from harddrive during sync

iTunes is doing something weird on my Toshiba. It seems to have started since the last update to version 7.1.0.59. Every so often I get a error message like the following:

Full size...

Sure enough,the files referenced have disappeared from the file system. But, they are still on the iPod. I seem to be able to listen and delete the reference in the library and all is well. However, I fear that some of my ripped music will disappear and I will have to start patching the local library. I posted a thread on iTunes. So, if you happen to know how I can resolve this, please let me know.