Still Recuperating

I went out today anticipating a run in the rain. No such luck. The Hurricane brewing in the gulf is headed our way and is teasing us with winds and scattered rain. It will let us have it soon. Hopefully South Texas will experience very little damage.
Going out this afternoon I wasn't sure how far I wanted to go. After the 11 miler two days ago at Government Canyon I felt good. But the next morning climbing the stairs to my second floor office, my knees let me know they are still getting accustomed to bouncing along the trails. Deep down I thought 11 miles may be too long a run too soon. I am glad it went well though. I didn't let my friends know I wanted to go slower, but it was OK. Not too fast really,and maybe what I needed.
"Slow Tony, slow. come back slow. Remember the tingling in your knees while climbing those stairs yesterday morning". This convinced me to just run about 3 miles today.

Sentimental

Yes, I get emotional.
Today I ran 3+ miles at Eisenhower Park with Kelli, Orlando and Elda. I am on the road back. Feeling much better today. The best since my return to running after my surgery. It was a great time discussing our recent runs, races and future running plans. It was a blast as we talked about our experiences and memories. Reminiscing as only we as runners and good friends can. As we enjoyed Beer after the run, at one of our favorite breweries (we had Beef and Chicken nachos too), I drifted off emotionally to my one and only 100 miler. Kelli, Orlando and Elda were a big part of it. Along with my other pacers, Liza, Marissa, and Kelley. Orlando and Elda were not pacers, but had committed to be there at the finish. All of them, along with Tom, my brother Andy, and Chris (who ran the race Too) were there for me through out. I could not have done it without them. As I could not have completed my first marathon in 1998 without Sal, my childhood friend who was there for me every 5 miles. This, I thought, is what is so unique about our passion. A passion that we share by supporting each other not only physically but also Emotionally. Every race, and run, is a wonderful trip.
I live for these experiences and this high.

Leon Creek

OK! Out today for my fourth run after my surgery. And I found a new way to enter Leon Creek before Bandera road. A route that allowed me to get off the road and on to dirt quicker. In the mile of road running from my house towards the creek, there is so much traffic along winding Mainland Rd towards Bandera Rd. This was my first run in Leon Creek since about March! It was great to be back on my "home" trail. The plentiful rain we've had this year has sprouted out very tall grass, weeds, and trees. I've got to remember to rub Badger bug balm on my legs. I have suffered from very sensitive skin all my life, and break out with rashes from exposure to Bugs, and plants, soaps, chemicals, and some people! HA! JK. I've had rashes that have lasted years. The last rash prompt my doctor to dig out a piece of my left inner calf the size of a quarter for a biopsy. She first asked if I minded having a scar. Heck no, another Trophy! Results were negative.
My run went well. It has been taking a full mile before I warm up and get in a rhythm.
But after that I was good. I ran into Glen on his mountain bike. We used to ride together a few years ago.
Today's run was a good one. Tomorrow, Eisenhower park with the Rock-hoppers, and going for 5.

The rocks at GC are still there!

Headed out to Government Canyon State park this morning to run with the gang. Driving up Galm Rd., I noticed a runner on the road up ahead. I recognize that bounce. It was Tom! He was putting in some extra miles. I slowed down and chatted with him for a little bit."See you at the park Tom." Waiting at the gate to the park was Robert. Hadn't seen him for awhile. We chatted as Liza showed up, then John and Chris. As the park ranger opened the gate we proceeded in to register at the check in. Chris, in his usual delivery, said, "Gee Tony, you look good. I thought you'd be weighing about 250 pounds now since you haven't been running" (my usual weight is at about 195). No Chris, it was a struggle but I ate wisely. I gained about 3 pounds while laying off. Not too bad. I do notice I have lost muscle mass the last 3 months. It was great to see and RUN with the gang. We headed out Joe Johnston trail. Not our favorite, a jeep trail with a slight upgrade. The conversation was great. Chris was his usual self, offering colorful topics to discuss. This was my first trail run in 2+ months. The rocks startled my feet! The feeling of being out there was fantastic though. Being back out on the trails . Very quickly I was in the zone. At two miles we paused as I told the gang that was it for Me. I was turning around. As good as I felt, I know I can't rush getting back in shape. 4 miles was all I was going for today. "So long guys" I said as I turned around, and ran back . I was pleasantly surprised as I was still "flowing" on my return. could I have gone further? Maybe, but I made a good decision. Next time, 6 miles? we'll see.

2 miles!

Out the door running two miles this morning. It went surprisingly well. The weather was a warm 75 muggy degrees. Beats running in the afternoon heat. 95 forecast for today! It felt great as I started slow and eased into a smooth relaxed stride. I saw my buddy, the mixed breed small dog that hangs out around the businesses along Mainland Rd. I said Hi and he just stared. I guess he didn't feel like being chased around the buildings so early in the morning. At the 1 mile mark I walked briefly and again eased into my stride on the way back home. This time my buddy hid behind the mailboxes as I approached. It was a good run today. looking forward to the next one.

Back at it!

Yes, I am now cleared to run! Well, I did cheat by taking walks.
Today the Doc said all is good! Recovery from my "groin" surgery is going well! I may return to physical activity, although he advised me to take it slow. I will struggle with this. I began walking three days ago. Slowly the first day, a little brisker walk the second, and a power walk with hills included the third day. Of course I did not confess this to the good Doctor.
My legs awakened! I felt my leg muscles vibrant and responding well.
I know it will be a slow process getting back to running form. My friends tell me I was in such great shape that it will be no time before I am running strong again. Do I believe this? To an extent, but I must proceed with caution. Care must be taken. As we run we get into a zone or flow and we feel we can go on and on. Oh how I miss that feeling! Again, I must take care and be "awake" as I run and not stay on that ride too long, too soon.
Tomorrow morning I will run before dawn. I'll try two miles to see how it goes! I can't wait!