08/14-15/07: Runs While Onsite in Columbia, SC

I spent the work week in Columbia and got in a couple of runs as shown below. I listened to the latest Daily Source Code and Accident Hash episodes. I listened to episode 652 of the Daily Source Code on the way home by streaming it via the iPhone since the hotel's Internet connection was not working and I couldn't catch up with latest podcast subscriptions. Very cool! I was a bit nervous about some of the work stuff I had to get done and such for the week, but it all worked out and I should have worried less. I couldn't drive all the way home as I got too tired. So, I slept in the rental car for a few hours in a hotel parking lot.
I also had to stop at several places along the way so I could find a paper holder that my son insisted he needed me to get on my next trip. He selected one as a gift for me once. He was at my desk playing with it and insisted I write a note that next time I went on a trip, I needed to get him one. So, I did. I will put the note on flickr a little bit later.

Data

08/14/07: Blythewood, SC

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:01
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:00
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-79%
Route

08/15/07: Blythewood, SC

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	57:01
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:30
Weather:	Partly Cloudy Temperature-73° Humidity-91%
Route

Finished Let It Be Morning

I finally finished this wonderful novel. I read Sayed's first novel as well. I assume that his writings represent a viewpoint that can only realistically be portrayed by someone who has experienced like in places like Gaza first hand. Further, he represents his protagonists as Arabs and from an Arab, all be it non-extremist, point of view. The stories are well written and quickly absorb one in the life's of those in the stories. I highly recommend his books.

8/12/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Greenway

Judy made it today. She is under some pretty heavy duty stress (I won't say why). I hope I was a good friend and offered a good ear and reasonable advice. She is also battling what seems like some fatigue. The stress and the temperature probably have stacked the deck against her. So, she skipped the little out and back at the end of the trail and I finished the last 1.5 ahead of her. But, she was not that far behind. I sure hope her situation improves. She is a hard working, loyal, steadfast person that doesn't deserve any ill. I am happy for other parts of her life that have improved (think new fellow) :)

As for me, well I just ran a good steady pace with the sound of my conversation with Judy or the sound of my running. Prince was with Al DiMicco's group. First time I have seen him out with the Sunday crowd. I might have tried to show up earlier and ran with the big group had I known. But, I did get a chance to chat with him which was nice.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	1:16:34
Heart Rate:	158
Pace:	9:00
Weather:	Clear Temperature-82° Humidity-55%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

08/10/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code during this morning run. Nothing special to say today. Just knocking off the miles and trying to relief the stress from work.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:01
Heart Rate:	158
Pace:	9:00
Weather:	Clear Temperature-78° Humidity-74%

08/09/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Phedippidations during this morning run. Good show, but the discussion based Dr. George Sheehan's, This Running Life, that explained significant portions of personality based on one's body type (endomorph, mesomorph, ectomorph) was a little too reductionistic in my opinion. The development of one's personality (well the rest of the person too really) is a result of a dynamic interaction between the person and its environment (all of it). One's body type influences the environment and vice versa. The range and pervasiveness on other variables in the environment is enormous. I suspect that a scientific investigation of personality and body type would reveal a much more tenuous relationship than that reported by Dr. Sheehan.

I listened to a Scott Berkun on a podcast and had to checkout a Scott's blog as a result of their description of Asshole Driven Development. What a hoot! I have been in software development for nearly 20 years and I was very amused by the satirical list of software development lifecycle methods.

Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	56:31
Heart Rate:	154
Pace:	9:25
Weather:	Clear Temperature-78° Humidity-77%

08/07/07: 3 Mile Run: Blythewood, SC

I listened to Daily Source Code during this morning run. I didn't take the wireless headset given the recent woes with its use (see previous posts for my whining). The Garwin Timex system also screwed up, IMHO. I believe that you have to get the green light on the monitor indicating that you have established connection with the satellites before you indicate your desire to use the GPS services on the watch. I turned on the monitor, pressed the watches buttons to reset the values from the last run, selected distance as the GPS related metric to display, and I got the green light after awhile. Silly me; I pressed start and started running. After about a mile I looked at the watch and distance was 0.00. The GPS light was off. Arghhhhhh. Turned it on.

It started tracking distance. I guessed at a turned around point. I noted the time at the turn around. I figured I would just take the watch's end time - this midpoint value multiply by 2 and there you go. Well, using that mechanism showed I ran 7:10 pace! Yeah right.

Data

Distance:	3.2 Miles (estimate, validated on gMaps)
Time:	30:26
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:30
Weather:	Clear Temperature-78 Humidity-87%

08/05/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

No Judy. So, I put the iPod on shuffle for music, turned on the bluetooth, and put on the headset, ran 100 feet, and had to get the wired headset. There is nothing more frustrating than using high tech gear that just doesn't work at all. When it works this bluetooth and headset are great. No wire, easy control of the volume, start/pause, and skip to next track are wonderful. But, way too often I have to reset and reset hoping that the skiping and garbling stop. I think it boils down to "bluetooth sucks".

It was and felt like a slow run. I got a late start because we were up late thanks to a party at our house. I had 1 glass of red wine and I could feel it when I got up. That sucks too. But, I got the run in.

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:42:32
Heart Rate:	155
Pace:	9:45
Weather:	Clear Temperature-81° Humidity-69%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

08/03/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Daily Source Code during this morning run. I have been using the iPod because I lost the TTY adapter for the iPhone. I love the iPhone, but I would like to know what f**king genius had the dumbass idea that a headset jack would be better if it wasn't standard. STUPID! I am going to have to order online as apparently the only Apple store in town here will never get anymore. I will be ordering 3 of them ($30) just so I can have one at the end of every wire I plug into the headset jack. Out of all of the irritants of this new device, this is the more irritating one.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:30
Heart Rate:	141
Pace:	9:30
Weather:	Clear Temperature-73° Humidity-76%

08/01/07: 5 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Daily Source Code during this morning run. I was just doing the usual multiple loop around the lake when I saw Prince and Larry coming down the road. So, I joined them and did 2 of the middle miles along C-41. It was good to see and chat with them. Then, I learned that I am 14 years older than both of them. I never really thought about it I guess. I find it hard to look in the mirror and see a guy that turns 50 this year.

Data

Distance:	5 Miles
Time:	48:12
Heart Rate:	149
Pace:	9:38
Weather:	Partly Cloudy Temperature-77° Humidity-74%

07/31/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Daily Source Code during this morning run. It is hard to be chatty on a blog entry that you do days after the run. I don't remember what this morning was like.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:34
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:31
Weather:	Clear Temperature-74° Humidity-82%

Chat on the iPhone!

After using up my first month's 200 text messages, I decided there must be some kind of option. I found meebo. Safari seems to be at bit buggy with it since it has crashed a couple of times. But, I did get it to work and it looks promising. Getting chat in the iPhone would be cool.

07/29/07: 8.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Greenway

No Judy. So, I put on the bluetooth headset and turned on the iPod. Just me and music made the trek. I steady run, but I somehow managed to not stop the watch so I lost the data. Nothing special to say today and I gotta get going so that's all for now. Oh, I read my track club newletter in the bath tub via the iPhone. Too cool.

Data

Distance:	8.5 Miles
Time:	Unknown
Heart Rate:	Unknown
Pace:	Unknown
Weather:	Clear Temperature-78° Humidity-77%
Route:	The usual 8.5 Miler

07/27/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Daily Source Code during the morning run. It it good to be back on the morning schedule. I started the day at 2:30 am due to 3 deliverables due at work today. I got one done before 5:30 am, so I decided I deserved a break. Off to run...

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	27:31
Heart Rate:	149
Pace:	9:10
Weather:	Clear Temperature-72° Humidity-90%

07/25/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to Daily Source Code. Adam has moved on to talking about his iPhone. He got brave and hacked it to put in a SIM from his existing cell phone based on his reading on the web (he didn't put the link in the show notes, so I think this is the right one). He likes his for the same reasons I like mine. He did find some of the same frustrations including the difficulty with moving pictures from the iPhone to the computer. His complaint helped motivate me to try a little more exploration. First, I discovered on the Apple Support forums that someone had noted that the iPhone had to be unlocked to be able to use the file systems capabilities to simply drag and drop files via the Windows' Explorer. However, I have never had any luck getting the iPhone's camera to show up in the Explorer. Well, I managed to get it done. Here's how:

• Reboot
• Unlock iPhone
• Put iPhone in cradle
• Set the default action to view and move files via Windows Explorer on the dialog box that comes up (I also set that as the default action for the Apple iPhone by clicking on the set options button on the dialog)

Now, it seems to work everytime. Yeppee!

This was another evening run during which I didn't notice that I was going so slow. In fact, I felt good. However, I didn't feel fast either.

Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	57:37
Heart Rate:	149
Pace:	9:36
Weather:	Light rain Temperature-79° Humidity-79%

7/24/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

Just back from Newark, NJ after spending a night in a lovely hotel near the airport. OK, it was a hotel save the lovely bit. But, I did sleep good actually. I listened to Daily Source Code. Adam is still going on about the fall of big media and the BBC's woes. The fall of big media may not becoming and I am all for exposing what is really done to produce TV content. But, I am not ready to sign up the independent media is the vehicle to truth. Most of what I see is still someone putting something out there with the intent to get noticed or to convince me of the truth the other person thinks I should believe. That is not the same as simply telling me the truth. The point becomes the convincing, not the sharing of the truth and thus starts the slippery slope.

I completed this run in the evening, after supper due to a busy schedule including travel from New Jersey. The run felt fine, but the pace and time may reflect the impact of running just after dinner on a long day.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	29:04
Heart Rate:	149
Pace:	9:41
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-85° Humidity-44%

7/22/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

No Judy. So, I put the iPod on shuffle for music, turned on the bluetooth, and put on the headset. All technology worked well until the battery on the headset died about .25 miles before the finish. Not too bad really. But, it is sure irritating when things don't work on a run. Technology should just work, right? The left knee started to feel a bit funny towards the end of the run again (like last Sunday). In fact, I had to mow my yard immediately after the run since I am traveling next week. The knee was particularly troublesome when going down hill with the mower. I am a bit worried about this.

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:39:10
Heart Rate:	148
Pace:	9:26
Weather:	Clear Temperature-71° Humidity-61%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

07/21/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I took the iPhone and listened to the Daily Source Code on this run. Adam is going off on the BBC's getting caught hacking up video to show the queen leaving, but in fact the video was of her arrival. It seems to me that most stories, big media and not, come packaged with the bias of the producers. Thus, truth continues to be elusive if your source is anything other than personal experience. TV, radio, YouTube, Podcast.... the lot generally have to be filtered with caution.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	29:07
Heart Rate:	141
Pace:	9:42
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-70° Humidity-93%

07/18/07: 5 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I took the iPod and bluetooth headset to listen to music in shuffle mode. I have changed the earpieces and the flapping noises are gone. So, I'm pleased with that. I also cover everything in plastic now. This was an afternoon run. So, I was surprised that I didn't really notice the 10 more degrees than my usual morning runs.

Data

Distance:	5 Miles
Time:	47:44
Heart Rate:	144
Pace:	9:32
Weather:	Partly Cloudy Temperature-85° Humidity-57%

07/17/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the latest Daily Source Code during this run. I also started listening to a Accident Hash. I haven't heard one of those in a long while (well, not since June 28th....just seems longer). Welcome back C.C. We missed you for sure. No trouble out of the knee. So, that's good news. I was worried.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:21
Heart Rate:	140
Pace:	9:27
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-75° Humidity-82%

7/15/07: 10.5 Mile Run: Demopolis, AL

I ran with the iPod and bluetooth headset (Motorola S9). I had the same problem I have experienced before with the iPod and bluetooth attachment in the front. But, this time there was not heart rate monitor. But, I did have on the Timex/Garwin Time and Distance transceiver. So, I thought maybe that was causing interference. But, turning it off made no difference. Put the iPod in the back and all was well. Interesting.

I should have checked the schedule before I ran, because I was only due to run 8.5 miles. I left knee started acting a bit funny around 7 miles into the run. It was cutting up and laughing (just kidding). Seriously, it started to feel strange. I wasn't experiencing pain, but something is not quite right. I finished the run and I am experiencing a little sensitivity on the left knee still. It isn't painful, but it feels like it is just seconds away from pain. I am hoping that the next 2 days of rest will resolve it.

We are in Demopolis, AL. I built a computer for my mother-in-law who has been limping by with an ancient and slow boat anchor for some time.

Data

Distance:	10.5
Time:	1:39:04
Heart Rate:	Not measured
Pace:	9:26
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-69° Humidity-90%
Route + 1 mile worth of out and backs tacked on near the lock and dam and another mile at the end

7/14/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the latest Daily Source Code during this run. I cranked this one out before I took off to the gym for muscle works. We signed a contract for someone to fix our water damaged ceiling. Well, partially water and partially Bob. The contractor said that I didn't need to do much more than poke a hole in the sheetrock ceiling. I tore down any sheets that were thoroughly soaked.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:24
Heart Rate:	141
Pace:	9:28
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-71° Humidity-81%

07/12/07: 6 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I was caught up on the podcasts I normally listen to so I took the iPod with the bluetooth headset. It was a little irritating because I could hear the rubber on the ear piece flapping as I ran. This is very distracting. In fact, I am going to try different ear pieces in hopes that will resolve it.

Near the end of the run, a car approached me and the driver, an elderly male, raised his hand. I thought he was being friendly and responded accordingly. Then, I noticed that he was actually trying to direct me to get off of the pavement. So, naturally, I used my hands and arms to gesture more dramatically than he did. I wanted him to look in his rearview mirror and get the message. I have no idea if he did or not. But, gees, on a road with no traffic and lots of room, he is going to flip out because I am using 2 feet of road. He should just get over himself. I nearly look forward to the opportunity to conflict with him.

Data

Distance:	6 Miles
Time:	54:51
Heart Rate:	145
Pace:	9:08
Weather:	Clear Temperature-71° Humidity-87%

07/10/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I put the iPod on Shuffle for this run. But, I meant to comment after listening to a recent Daily Source Code (630, I think) during which Adam Curry commented about his doubts about the veracity and causes of global warming from the apparent slew of experts brought in to comment during Life Earth. It just strikes me a bit funny that a guy, Adam, that will stop smoking after someone reads his palm, doubts the explanations of those that claim to be scientists and use reason and the results of studies to explain phenomenon. But, yes we should have a balanced view on such an important matter, global warming. My concern remains that in the current climate where we all seem to prefer polarization over truth is that we simply won't get it. Worse we may be the proverbial frogs in the warming water. Let's hope not. The truth can be so damn hard to get.

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:18
Heart Rate:	147
Pace:	9:05
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-74° Humidity-82%

07/08/07: 10.5 Mile run: Brownell-Shades Creek Loop

Judy met me at 6:30 am, turned off at 4 miles. So, I did the last 6.5 alone listening to the Daily Source Code on the iPhone. It was show 630 which had another screwed up start like another show a few weeks back. Adam just puts 'em out as they are. It was a bit irritating and I nearly stopped several times thinking it was the iPhone that was screwing up. Which it has lately, by the way. I believe the iPhone's response to an application crash is a simple return to the home page of the iPhone. Safari does this fairly often. And, it seems to be associated with navigating down a long page. So, if you are really trying to get to a piece of information on a particular page, you may suffer 3-4 crashes first. Maps suffers similar woes. Very irritating. I am really looking forward to the updates that I pray are coming. And, I had to reboot it recently because it simply became unresponsive.

I did get a kick out of the IDon'tCare song by Tom Smith in the Daily Source Code Show 629. I know it will make my wife laugh as she thinks my iPhone hysteria was just that.

I signed up for Twitter, but I'm not totally sure what I will get out of it yet. I am not seeing me updating it frequently and that seems to be the idea. We'll see...

I listened to Phedippidations on the way home from the run and in the grocery store at which I normally stop and purchase some groceres from along the way. I love the show and Steve seems like a truly genuine and nice guy, but he sure can pour on the "thou shoulds". This show was about blogging, logging, and other venues for sharing the experience of running. Something, I obviously love to do given my posts here. But, I do it more for me and less out of obligation or obedience to some rules ascertained by "so greats" that have gone before me. That said, I think it is Steve's dedication and healthy respect for "thou shoulds" that makes me listen and dare I say "obey". I love his passion. Keep it up Steve!

Data

Distance:	10.5 Miles
Time:	1:41:54
Heart Rate:	146
Pace:	9:42 (I think I am still recovering from Peavine Falls)
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-73° Humidity-84%
Route:	10.5 Mile Loop

07/06/07: 3 Mile Run: Neighborhood

I listened to the Daily Source Code on the iPhone during this run. Adam was was patriotic and played it up. He even had John Wayne doing the Pledge of Allegiance. Bordered on too much. Hey, is it just me or aren't you damn glad those UK terrorists never treated you? It's almost amusing to see how pathetic their attempt at terrorism was. Of course, since they really meant to do harm it isn't amusing at all. Idiots!

Data

Distance:	3 Miles
Time:	28:38
Heart Rate:	144
Pace:	9:32
Weather:	Cloudy Temperature-74° Humidity-82%

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%