Sebago Trekker Pale Ale

So we checked out Sebago Brewing's new location last night. Gorgeous. We also tried their new charity brew- Trekker Pale. Ohmygoodnesssoooogood! I had two pints...okay, maybe three. I woke up this morning pretty sure that my run would be wrecked by such bad/fun behavior. I decided to do an easy jaunt around Back Cove to 'run out the demons'. Once I stretched out, I took off and ran faster than usual the whole time. I ran 8.3 minute miles for the five it takes round trip from my home. I know this probably doesn't sound fast to you long-limbed, lean 'real' runner types but for me it was flying! I think the Trekker Pale has some sort of slow-release carb magic or karmic power that put a strong wind at my back. Cheers, Sebago Brewing! I will be back to test my theory. (www.sebagobrewing.com)

As to the 8.3...so that is the speed I would have to maintain for 26.2 miles if I were to qualify for Boston. Probably not going to happen this year. But it did motivate me to trash my 'beginner' marathon training plan for the intermediate because it doesn't seem to far-fetched after all! And it feels ohsooogood to run the entire Back Cove trail without being passed!

3 Round Men

Why is it that people insist upon harassing runners? Why must they shout out their sarcastic encouragement and why is it always when I am at a point of exhaustion and angry adrenaline? Today, returning from Bug Light across the bridge from South Portland, a bit sunburned and tired but feeling strong, at the tip top of a very steep and long ramp that makes one's ass muscles scream out for mercy, I came upon three very round men. One of them was boldly shirtless and exposing his damp, pale hairy chest. 'Run faster. Faster', one of them dared to say to me. I will not repeat exactly what I said in return, but you might be able to figure it out if you try really hard. People are so stupid at times.

I did reward myself with a fantastic smoothie from the Maine Squeeze in the Old Port. 'Fast as Light' is my drink of choice. Pure deliciousness that make me forget for a moment about my beer-bellied enemies. I wish them the ability to keep their mouth shut!

Stormy Seas

5.4 miles today. I thought I was going to beat the rain. Then, as the sprinkles began, I thought 'this isn't that bad'. Then, it began to pour. Rain in 80 degree weather is nice. Rain in 60 degree weather is tolerable. Rain in 45 degree weather is damn cold. Damn cold.

On a positive note, the bay was stormy as I ran along east end beach. The waves were loud and sloppy. As I stood and looked out, I was reminded how lucky I am to live in this amazing place. I was reminded of the power of the ocean. I was reminded of all that the ocean represents and why I want to do what I can to protect the ocean and the creatures that exist there.

Take a minute today to be thankful for the natural beauty that hasn't yet been ruined and consider doing what you can to protect it!

Rainy Sunday Run

I just logged 6.7 miles in some misty and rainy conditions. Once I pull my sluggish body outside and begin, I always really enjoy running in this weather. I always feel like a badass while other people are sitting sipping mimosas in the restaurants I run by, looking at me in shock and disgust as if I somehow make them guilty of their bad choices. I was absolutely drenched at the end of it. Coffee has never tasted so good. I better get used to running in this- looks like a few more shit days in the near future. Please summer, come soon.

Sea Shepherd

I recently got word that I will be able to run the Maine Marathon to raise money for Sea Shepherd. I was waiting for a final go-ahead. I will post the donation page address once I get it. As far as training goes, it is GO TIME!
Now it is time to eat clean and healthy, run hills, do speed work, and begin bugging everyone for money. Get ready...

My base runs are around 4.5 miles these days, and my longest has been about 8 miles I think. Time to step it up. I will be running for the sharks, the whales, the seals, and the health of our oceans. That is the best motivation I can think of. Send some good energy my way and stay tuned...

Brendan Brazier

I just found out Brendan Brazier, vegan tri-athelete and author is most likely coming to Whole Foods in June. I am super excited for that. He is a pretty amazing person. Maybe he can give me a couple of tips for the race!

I have been doing my Insanity workouts every day as well as a short-ish run. My body is tired. I think today will be a rest and refuel day (unless the sunshine guilts me out onto the pavement again). These nice days are so precious after the hellish winter that whenever the sun is out I feel pretty obligated to get out there. But I suppose the sun will be on my balcony as well. I am not so good at the resting part lately...but I know it is just as important as the training.