Christmas

We were stranded at home for Christmas. Luckily we had a plan and had a Turkey dinner anyway. I rode the trainer for about 30 min Christmas night. On Saturday we shoveled a lot of snow and plowed snow with the pickup and tractor. It looks better today so I may be able to get out for a run later.

Speedwork Monday and Pace Wednesday

I ran 5-800s at about 3:15 pace on Monday afternoon and on Wed I ran 4 miles @ around 7:00 pace with a mile warm and cool. Christmas day today and even the RRR would have to say this is bad weather. A blizzard with snow and plenty of wind. We will be stuck at home but luckily Ann bought a small turkey and we will be celebrating at home. Merry Christmas.

Saturday Run

I ran in the morning 5 miles in about 36:30. I ran down to my mother-in-laws farm and fed the chickens. Maggie and Minnie came along. Minnie ran home early but Maggie my ever faithful dog followed me the whole distance.

Wednesday and Friday

On Wednesday I ran some pace work. 1 mile warm up then 2 miles at about 7-7:15/mile then 800 jog next 1 mile at 7:00/mile another 800 recovery jog and finally 2 miles at about 7:15. It is much harder running with the extra clothes and the face mask. Seems a bit harder to get air.

Friday night: I just finishe 30 minutes on my bike in our basement. I have a trainer set up so I have no idea about speed or distance. Run again tomorrow or Sunday.

Brian

Catch Up on Running

I ran last Saturday 6 miles after the wrestling meet. I also did some biking in our basement as I set up a trainer for my bike (early Christmas present from Ann) I rode about 30 on two different days. Monday I ran some speed work 200, 400, 600, 800, 800 600, 400, 200 with 200 or 400 jogs in between. This was a tough workout especially considering the extra clothes as it was well below 0 and windy. I tried to keep the pace for all at about 6:00-6:30/mile pace. It is a bit warmer today so I should be able to get out after work for some pace work.

Wednesday Run

I ran 5 miles after work. 1 mile warm up then 4 miles at 7:15 pace. It was a bit cold around -5F but it was calm. My face was a bit frosty by the end.

Monday December 7

I ran my speed runs today. I ran a 1 mile warm up then 2-2mile repeats @ 6:40 with 800 recovery run in between then finally an 800 @ 3:20 with an 800 jog at the end. It was quite cold today, maybe about -4F by the time I finished. I then fed the horses and loaded up 45 bales of straw for someone. Next off to Brendan's Christmas concert until about 9:30. I was crabby and tired by the time I got home. I am adding a picture of my family that was taken a couple of weeks ago. From left: Ann, Rosebud, Me, Ellen, Thomas and Brendan.

Another Week

I ran Monday, Wednesday and Saturday last week. Monday was 5-800's at about 3:15 pace. The weather was pretty good a little windy. Wednesday was 5 miles at 7:20 pace weather getting a little colder about 10F. Saturday morning I ran at about 6:30 in the morning, it was about 0F but calm so not bad. The dogs love this weather especially our lab-cross she likes the cold.

New Training

I started a new training this week. Tuesday I ran 8-400's at about 1:30 each, Thursday I ran 1mile warm 3miles at 7:00 per mile and 1 warm down, Today I ran 6 miles at 7:30. So I need to run short fast on dayone, longer faster on day two and endurance run on day 3. I will try to keep this up through the winter for the Frozen Feat 10k. I had a bit of a turkey hangover today. Did not feel the energy.

Brian

Catching up

I ran 6 miles on Monday, 5 on wednesday and 6 again on Friday. I should be able to make it over 20 if I can make it out on Sunday.

Saturday Run

It was such a nice day that I ran 10.2 miles after Thomas' b-ball game. Finished in about 1hr 18min.

Thursday run

I ran with the dogs a nice 6 mile run in the mist in 45 min. I was very nice and calm.

Tuesday Run

I ran after work with the dogs. Rosebud came with us on the leash for the first 2 miles. We dropped her off at home on the way by and then ran another 3 miles. Total of 5 miles in about 36:45. Maybe do some biking tomorrow after I clean the horse barn.

Sunday run and bike

I ran 6 miles in 45:15 at about 10:30. Then I cleaned the gutters of our house and cultivated the garden to get it ready for winter. The boys had a friend over and they wanted to go to Turtle River Park to do some Mountain biking. We rode about 6-7 miles on our bike and called it a day. I may be a bit stiff tomorrow as I have not done much biking lately.

Rosebud Run

Rosebud ran 2 miles tonight. I ran a total of 6 miles in 45 min. It was a really nice night for a run. I'm looking at a new method of training. Running less running faster. It incorporates shorter faster training runs for two of the days and the traditional long run the last day. It also calls for two days of cross training which I would do on my bike either with a trainer or on the road. Less days of running, less total mileage, but more intense workouts. I think it will work for me as I have limited time for training and I don't handle high mileage very well.

Sunday run

I ran again today because I was not happy with my 5k time yesterday. 2 minutes is a lot of time to lose in a 5k from 19:30 in May to 21:19 in October. I ran 6 miles in 45:09. Nice day for running.

Red Shoe 5k

I ran in the Red Shoe 5k to benefit Ronald McDonald house of North Dakota. I finished in 6th place 2nd in my age group with a time of 21:19 almost 2 minutes slower than my PR earlier this summer. I was a bit disappointed in the result. The weather was cool and windy but not that bad. I will have to resume my yasso 800's to improve my speed.

Thursday run

I ran in the mud, rain, wind, cold 38F this afternoon after Ann got home. About one half mile into the run I put my hood up and one of my lenses came out of my glasses. I had to stop and look for it in the driving rain for about 10 minutes. It is hard to see with one foggy lens in the rain. I did finally find it and finished my shortened run of about 3.1 miles in 23 minutes. I think I will run again tomorrow 3-4 miles if the weather is not horrible.

Tuesday Run

I ran the regular route tonight with Maggie and Minnie. We did not see any wildlife tonight just 3 combines, 1 tractor , 2 trucks, 2 pickups. The dogs and I were trying to stay out of the way. Finished the 5 mile route in about 36:25. The wind was about 20mph but a crosswind from the south.

More Wildlife Sunday

I did not have time to run on my regularly scheduled Saturday run. I ran Sunday 6 miles in about 45:30. About half way through two coyotes joined us and played a game of hide and seek with Maggie and Minnie. The dogs think it is a big game but I think the coyotes are looking for a meal. So far I think they are a bit of afraid of trying to take on both of them. Me following also makes them a bit nervous I think. After a bit the dogs came out of the sunflower field and we went happily on our way.

Thursday run

I was able to run with my newer shoes. The road was relatively dry. Ran 5 miles in about 36:50. It was cool and calm. Felt good but my heels have been a bit sore lately. I'll have to start the icing and exercises for PF. Dogs ran right by a badger. I'm glad they did not see it they would have had their paws full with him.

Tuesday Mud

Another run, another run with old shoes. It was rainy, muddy but not too cold. The dogs chased up a deer and had fun running after her. She was much too fast for them, they gave up the chase soon after it started. They would have no idea what to do even if the caught her. Hoping for a dry Thursday.
Brian

Sunday run

I ran the traditional 5 mile route with the dogs. Finished in 36:30. I usually run 5 miles because it is the only route I can go and not run into another farm with dogs. Very nice day today. Windy but a cross wind.

Wed and Fri run

I ran Wednesday in the snow and slop with the dogs. We ran our traditional 5 miles in about 38 min. We were all a sloppy mess when we arrived home. Friday I ran after supper in Larimore. It was dark so I did not take the dogs. It was a nice run but shorter 4.2 in about 30:00min. The effects of my cold are still with me as I don't feel I have any energy. I will run again today, Sunday maybe after the Vikings game.

Cold but Calm

Much better night for a run tonight. It was about 32 but calm. The dogs and I went for a 5 miler. Finished in aboout 35:35. My cold is getting better. It was much easier to breath tonight.

Cold October Saturday

I was thinking about running 8 miles until I turned around into a 25mph gusting to 35mph northwest wind at 32F. I changed it to about 6.2 in around 47:30 not bad considering the conditions and my cold. Not a pretty run. But, as always, the dogs had fun. So Monday check in to see what condition my condition is in.

Brian

Recovering from a cold

I have not run much this week as I developed a bad cold and have felt pretty crummy. I ran last night in the cold and wind and snow and sleet. The dogs needed to get out and so did I. It went well but I cut it short and did not push the distance. 4.2 miles at about 7:30 pace. I will try to do about 8 on Saturday as long as I'm feeling ok. Probably skip the Potato bowl 8k this year though.

Brian

Cold and a Cold

All that running in the wet, cold weather has given me a cold. I'll take a day of rest and run Wed.

Brian

Cold wet Sunday

I ran a cold, wet, muddy 5 miler with Maggie and Minnie. It was a good run in about 41 minutes. After the run we picked 100 pumpkins from our garden. Congrats to Andrew Knight on a great Twin Cities Marathon wiped out his PR.

Brian

I'm back

I am going to start the blog again. I ran 5 miles in the rain, mud and wind with Maggie and Minnie on Thursday. I will try to get out today. I may run the Potato Bowl 8k next Saturday. I will have to see what is going on that day. Thomas may have football but I might be able to sneak in and run before the game.

Brian

Tuesday night Running Group

I ran 6.24 miles with the TNRG. About 15 runners tonight. Finished with the Killer Kusler Krunches. Couple of kids staying overnight tonight so I won't get much sleep. Run short tomorrow and rest Thur and Fri for the Half Marathon on Sat.

Brian

Sunday Morning Run

The dogs were barking at 4:00, 5:00, 6:00am so I finally decided I should go for a run. I ran 10 miles at about 8min/mile pace. We then went to church and at cajun and jambalaya stuffed chicken. I at back the 1000 calories burned on the run I'm sure. Maybe some fishing at Turtle River park this afternoon.

Brian

Missed runs

I ran 7 miles on Tuesday, 4.5 on Wed and Ran the Northwood 5k on Sat with a 1st place time of 19:50. I will run long Sunday and wind down for the Cats Incredible half-marathon on Sat. the 1st of Aug.

Brian

Run and Run

I ran 3 miles on Thursday and Ran in the Larimore Days 10k on Saturday. I won the 10k with a time of 41:50 I have steadily slowed in the last 4 races meaning I may be getting tired. I will try some longer runs this week and run a 5k on Saturday at Northwood. Aug 1st is Cats Incredible half-marathon.

Brian

Wednesday Run

Well in my last entry we were going to an appointment for Ellen. They were unable to draw blood from her port at Altru so we went to Roger Maris in Fargo. After a couple of days of medicine to unclog the port they had to replace Ellen's port. She is quite sore and not happy about being at the hospital and clinic for that long. I ran when we got home Wed night around 9:00pm. I ran 8 miles and it felt good to relieve some stress time was 1hr 2min. May run a short run tonight or tomorrow and run the Larimore days 10k on Saturday morning.

Brian

Prairie Rose games races

I ran the 5k leg of the team triathlon on Saturday with Joanne and Hannah. Joanne and Hannah had awesome races and I had a personal best of about 19:10 in the 5k.
On Sunday I went to GF to run the Prairie Rose 10k. I ran a 41:40 was 5th overall and 1st in my age group. My legs were a little tired on Sunday but that is only about 30 sec off of my all time best so not bad. I will be going to Ellen's appt and some baseball tourneys early in the week and try to run a couple of day before the Larimore Days 10k next Saturday. The photo is Me, Joanne, Hannah after the Prairie Rose Triathlon.

Brian

Tuesday and Wednesday

I ran 7 miles on Tuesday in 51:56 and 5 miles Wednesday in 37:30 both felt pretty good my legs are a bit tired still I think from the 10k race in GF on the fourth. I am resting thursday and Friday to make sure I can run a fast 5k for the team Triathlon on Saturday. Baseball practice tonight.

Brian

Sunday night run

Thomas, Maggie, Minnie and I went on a 5 mile run. Time was 38:40. My legs were pretty tired from yesterday. I will try to run Tuesday and Wednesday and then rest Thursday and Friday for the Prairie Rose Team Triathlon. I don't want to let down my teamates.

Brian

Firecracker 10K

I forgot to mention the great job done by my sons Brendan and Thomas. Brendan was first in the 12 and under age group and Thomas was third. They just go out and run no training involved there. Youth is great!

Brian

Firecracker 10K

I won the men's division in the firecracker 10k. Time was 41:12. I went out in 6:12 but finished somewhere around 6:45, so I kind of died at the end. Oh well I guess that means more 800's in order to get to the 40:00 mark before the end of the summer. There was a great turnout and the Red River Runners were well represented with Stacy, Josh, Barb, David, Andrew all posting great times.

Brian

Wednesday Fun

I went to watch Ellen play T-ball, then I ran while the boys had baseball practice. I ran 5.1 miles in about 37 min. After practice we gathered all of the camping gear and headed over to Turtle River State Park. We wen on a 5 mile mountain bike ride. Did the usual camping stuff, ate smores, gathered around the camp fire, slept in the tent. (or at least we were in the tent not much sleeping going on). Home now it is my birthday, 46 years old. We will go to another baseball game and then rest up for the Firecracker 10k on Saturday.

Brian

Monday night run

I ran 4.1 miles in 27:44. Good pace run to get ready to run the 10K on Saturday.

Brian

Midweek run

I ran a 5 miler in 36:41 this morning at around 6:30am. The dogs made the run with me. Took the day off to watch the boys play baseball and take care of Ellen. Rode a little bike tonight and went for a walk with Ann, Ellen, Rosebud, Maggie and Minnie.

Brian

Start the week run

I ran 4 miles in 28 min tonight during Ellen's swimming lesson. I ran on the blacktop to get used to a harder surface. It was quite warm and humid but felt good. When we got home the boys showed me how to do 8 min ab workout. I did not make it the full 8 min and I bet my abs are sore tomorrow. 2 weeks until the Firecracker 10k July 4th. 3 weeks until team triathlon 5k. and Prairie Rose 10k.

Brian

Run-Walk-Bike Saturday

Started off at 6:30 and ran 7 miles in 53.25. Then Ann, Ellen and I went to the Make-a-Wish walk for wishes in Grand Forks we walked 3.1 miles at the Alerus parking lot. We went next to Turtle River state park and hiked around the park and watched a program about reptiles. When we arrived home my nephew called and wanted to ride some bike. We biked from his house to ours which is 12.5 miles in about 1 hour 20 min. I guess that is enough for today.

Brian

Torture Thursday

I ran some more 800's tonight, it always feels so good when these are done. It was warm and humid with a bit of a breeze on the way back. Times: 3.34, 2.59, 4.02, 2.51, 4.18, 2.48, 4.16, 3.33, 4.07, 3.10. Legs were beat by the end.

Brian

Tuesday night Running group

I ran with the Tuesday night running group. It was rainy half way through the run. We all got soaked pretty good. I ran 7 miles in about 56:00. There was a good turn out for the run. A good time was had by all

Brian

Sunday 5 miler

I am stuck on 5 miles which is running to my mother-in-laws and back. It is a good route since there are not any houses with other dogs on the way. It was about 80 today with a slight breeze. It felt hot compared to all previous runs this year. I will try to run every other day this month to get ready for the races in July.

Brian

Friday afternoon run

I ran earlier than usual today as I left work on a slow Friday. I ran 5 miles in 37.36. I felt good. Maggie stayed with me and Minnie lagged behind as usual. I will probably run a bit on Sunday as the boys have a baseball tourney tomorrow.

Brian

Wednesday 800's

I ran 800's again tonight. Beautiful night for running. Times are as follows. 3.44, 2.57, 4.09, 2.51, 4.12, 2.50, 3.56, 3.13, 4.00, 3.05. I left the dogs at home as it was getting toward dusk and that's when the coyotes come out to play. I found my times for the 2 5k's from the duathlon. Both were personal records. 19:27 and 19:30. The 800's are paying off.

Brian

Easy Monday

I ran an easy 5 miles in 39:15. Legs were a bit stiff from the long run on saturday. Felt better after the run tonight. Looks like some regular training until the 10k on July 4th. Maggie and Minnie were happy to get back on the road, and play in the mud. Looks like I have team mates for the Prairie Rose games triathlon. Joanne who biked with me in the Duathlon, and Hannah a swimmer from Grand Forks. That should be fun!

Brian

Red River Runner Saturday

I met up with the running group south of 32nd on the bike path. We ran to the Lincoln park entrance and I met up with Barb and Craig. We ran north to the walking brigde and then back south to the initial meeting point. In all about 12.5 miles. I have no idea of the time but Barb said we were running about 8 min miles

Brian

Wednesday 800's

I ran my 800's tonight. Times as follows: 3:54, 2:54, 4:11, 2:58, 4:09, 2:50, 4:11, 3:25, 4:34, 3:16. As you may guess the first 5 are with the wind and last are against. I think these 800's are helping improve my short race times. I may take a couple of days off and run a longer run on Saturday.
Friday we have the Relay for Life at University park. Ellen and Rosebud will be at the Herald tent and walking in the survivors walk.

Brian

Monday Short run

Ran about 4 miles in 30 min tonight with the dogs. I heard the coyotes howling so we tried to stay away from them. Once in a while they will come and try to lure one of the dogs out into the woods.
I did not get the times on my 5k's yet. I will post them when possible. I did get $25 for the win. that is the first time I have earned money for running.
I don't have any races this month as yet. July will be busy with the Firecracker 10k, Prairie Rose games and a number of small town celebrations.

Brian

Dewey Kvidt Duathlon

Thanks to Stacy and Margo for getting me together with Joanne a bicyclist from G.F. I'm not sure of our times as they have not been posted yet. We won the overall team competition. Joanne rode a great leg into a strong north wind for the last five miles of 15 mile race. I felt good for the 2 5 k's but am not sure of my times as I did not start my watch. Rest today and look for the next race to train for. The race was a lot of fun as I was able to visit with new runners and cyclists and of course some Red River runners.

Brian

Wednesday 5 miler

Nice night for a run. I ran 5 miles in 37:10. Now rest 2 days for the 2 5k's I will run on Saturday.
I found a biker to ride the bike leg. Hopefully I can put together 2 good runs.

Brian

Memorial Day 800's

I ran 5 miles alternating easy and hard 800's. Times are as follows: 4:12, 3:15, 4:20, 3:15, 4:09, 3:08, 4:25, 3:01, 4:13, 3:10. I kept all of the fast runs at or under 6:30 pace. It was nice running, the roads were nice and soft but hard enough for a good run. I will run easy on Wednesday and then rest Thur and Fri to run 2-5K's at the Dewey Kvidt duathlon on Saturday.

Brian

Saturday Run

Ann, Ellen and I finished planting the garden and planted a bunch of flower seeds by the house. I took Maggie on a 7 mile run. We finished in about 53:30. Maggie had a little scrap with a raccoon along the way but neither of them wanted to fight too badly. It was a beautiful day for a run. About 65-70 and very little wind.

Brian

Easy Run Thursday

Maggie and Minnie and I went on an easy 5 mile run in about 39:00. Minnie is still a bit out of shape after her paw injury so she lags behind. Maggie on the other hand probably ran about 10 miles during my 5 miles. She loves the water. If I can find a partner I will team up for the duathlon May 30, If not I will run the 5k.

Brian

Tuesday 800's

I took yesterday off as Ann and I brought Ellen to her treatments in Fargo. I ran some 800's today. 5 jogs 5 800's. Times are as follows 3:49, 3:28, 4:19, 3:25, 4:14, 2:50, 3:38, 3:11, 3:57, 3:00.
The first 5 are against a 20mph wind, the last 5 are cruising with the wind.

Brian

Busy Saturday

Ann and I cleaned the house. I raked leaves and she mowed the lawn. Then I tilled some rows in the garden to get ready for planting. I played with Ellen and Rosebud for a bit. We went to church for 5:00 mass and then to The Scoop to eat supper. We started watching a movie when we got home. I let my supper rest and took off for a 5 mile run at about 8:30. I ran 5 miles in 37:30. I though about doing more but just for a second. The run felt refreshing. It was a beautiful night.

Brian.

Post Half marathon run

I took about 4 days off and ran 4 miles today in 30:00. I will run again Sat or Sun maybe about 8 miles. I am trying to find a biker to bike the duathlon May 30 in GF. I would do 2 5k runs and the biker would ride 15 miles.

Brian

Half Marathon Saturday

I ran the half marathon in Fargo. I beat my PR by 3 seconds. in 2007 I ran a 137:32, this year I ran it in 137:29. It was a pretty cold day, about 40-45 for most of the race,but not too much wind so it was pretty good running. Brendan, Thomas and Stephen ran the 5k. Brendan 28:40, Stephen 28:00 and Thomas 29:40. Not bad for just going out and running. I have a pretty stiff hamstring on the left side. Remnants of last years marathon. I will probably take a few days off and then back at it for the 5and 10k season.

Brian

Last run before the race

I ran 3 miles in 24 min. This is the last run before the race. A little run to keep the legs ready.
I will rest until Saturday. Brendan, Thomas and cousin Stephen will be coming along to run the 5k and do a little swimming at the Holiday Inn.

Brian

Minnie is back Monday

I ran an easy 4 miles in 30:00. Minnie is back running with us, so it was me, Maggie and Minnie. The dogs are in the kennel because they could not resist the water. They also chased a few deer but they found out the deer are much faster than us.

Brian

Last Saturday Long Run

This is the last Saturday before the Fargo Marathon. Ann was nice enough to watch the 10 boys that stayed overnight for Brendan's birthday party so I was able to run with the Red River Runners. Barb and I ran 10 miles in about a 8:30 pace. Thanks Stacy, the last 2 weeks were a lot of fun. You put quite a bit of work into your coaching and it shows as the participation has grown greatly in the 2 years I have been involved.
I will have an easy week of a couple of short runs and rest Thur and Friday for the 1/2 marathon.
Brian

Windy 800's

I took the day off on Wed as it was quite cold and rainy all day and all night. I ran 5 800's with 800 jogs in between them in these times. 3:57, 3:25, 4:09, 3:10, 4:18, 3:09, 4:15, 3:30, 4:35, 3:23. It was quite a tough run on the way back with a 25-30mph wind in my face. One more slightly long run on Saturday. I will run with the Red River Runners again as Ann said she could handle the 10 boys in the morning until I get home. Next week will be some short runs and rest up for the race!

Brian

Tempo Run Monday

Maggie and I ran a 5 mile tempo run tonight. The weather was quite nice, 50F with little wind. The coyotes were howling at Maggie so I called Ann to have her follow us with the car so they would not attack Maggie. We finished 5 miles in 34:00. Maybe a bit faster than a tempo run. We ran the mile near the coyotes in around 6:00 so that lowered the average a bit.
The above photo was taken April 26th. Ok so spring is not quite here yet.

Brian

Red River Runners long run

I went to Grand Forks to run with the running club finally. I wanted to run on a hard surface and get in touch with some runners. Barb, Craig and I started out at about a 8:30 pace for the first 8 miles then we picked it up to about 7:45-7:30 for the last 3 miles. I then ran back with them from Center Court to 13th ave and back for about 14-15 miles total. I ran more this week so I can cut down miles next Saturday and be fresh for the half marathon in Fargo May 9th. So a total of about 25 miles this week. Barb and Craig have been doing about 50-60/week to prepare for Grandma's in June. That is dedication to running.

Brian

Windy 800's

The wind was about 30 gusting to 40 out of the North-Northwest by the time I was able to run. Temp was down to about 50F. Early in the day it was beautiful, no wind 70F.
I ran some Yasso 800's times are as follows: 4:14, 3:23, 3:42, 3:19, 4:25, 3:22,4:12, 3:40 (dust blowing in my face for this one)4:57 getting gassed, 3:20. A total of 5 miles Total time of about 39:00. These are slower than my last time out I think mostly because of the wind, but I did not feel that great. Hope for calmer weather.

Brian

Run with the Swans

I ran a 4 mile tempo run tonight. Mile times as follows: 6:44, 6:45, 6:48, 6:54. I felt pretty good. I could probably hold out at least one more mile. Saw quite a few swans on the run tonight. Very nice day about 55 with 10-15mph crosswind.

Brian

Long(er) run Sunday

On Saturday Brendan had his last basketball tourney. It was also my dad's birthday. I ran my 8 miles in 59:40 on Sunday morning. It was about 35 F with very little wind. It was quite nice for running. There are 3 weeks until the half marathon. I will try to run the next two long runs with the Red River Runners so I can get my legs used to a harder surface.

Brian

Spring may finally be here: 800's

I ran 4 miles alternating slower 800's with faster 800's as follows: 3:47, 3:17, 4:13, 3:12, 4:27, 3:06, 4:35, 3:04. First 2 miles against a pretty stiff southeast wind. Last 2 with the wind.
An update on Minnie. She had to have part of her pad on her front paw cut off. She is bandaged and wearing a lamp shade on her head. It will be me and Maggie for a while. Soon Rosebud will try her hand at running.

Brian

Dog Day Tempo Run

I ran a 4 mile tempo run tonight in 28:02. That should be about 30 sec faster than my best half marathon. Maggie ran away and chased a big flock of swans and geese. Needless to say she did not catch them but she did get very muddy. Minnie decided to run in the woods that are filled with water. She got a major gash on the pad of her front paw. I will have to take her to the vet for stitches tomorrow morning. It was a rough running day for the dogs but I fared pretty good.

Brian

Long run on Friday night 10.25 miles

I ran my long run tonight. It looked like it might be quite windy tomorrow and it is my daughters birthday. Sunday looks rainy. Tonight was quite nice about 40F with very little wind. I ran 10.25 miles in 1hr 21min. I will take the next two days off and start again next week with some tempo and 800's.

Brian

Run 800's

I ran 800's for the first time in my running life. I ran 1 mile to warm up then 800 in 3:00 followed by rest jog then 3 more 800's with rest jogs in between and about a mile cool down. Some of the 800's may have been a bit short so I will have to map out a better course for the next run. As far as I could tell I ran the 800's at about 3:00-3:15 pace. Which is on target according to my Red River Runners intermediate half marathon schedule. The schedule calls for 800's at 60-90 seconds faster than race goal pace. Maggie and Minnie had a hard time figuring out what I was up to.
I got a new pair of running shoes. Asics 2140. They felt good even for the first time running in them. Total run was about 4.5 miles.
It is Ellen's birthday on Saturday. Her first birthday since she was diagnosed with leukemia. It will be a special day. I will try to do my long run on Friday or Sunday so I can spend the whole day with her on Saturday.

Brian

Easy 4 miles

I stayed home with Ellen today as she had a fever yesterday and had to have blood counts and blood culture. She is doing much better today after a good day of rest. I ran 4.1 miles in 32:00 after Ann arrived home. My hip feels good on the runs but gets stiff after sitting or lying for long periods. I will keep stretching and icing.

Brian

Saturday Long Run 9.5 miles

Ann dropped me off on the paved road so I would not have to run in the mud. I ran 9.5 miles in about 75 min. It was quite cold against the wind. Thomas rode his bike along side me. He made it no problem. I remember when I could beat him on his bike, not anymore.

Brian

Spring has not sprung.

It is not spring yet. I ran 4 miles in about 31:00 with a driving wind and ice pellets in my face. The road was part mud and part snow. Oh well this can't last forever. That is what I have been saying for the past month. Every run I think to myself this will be the last run in cold and snow. But so far spring in nowhere to be seen. I have had some hip pain that I get every so often. I may have lifted something wrong. It usually flares up and then goes away on its own. I will probably take a few days off before the weekend long run to get it back to normal.

Brian

March 30

I ran my scheduled 4 mile run in 30:20. It was windy and cold. It looks like more snow tomorrow.
It just will not warm up around here. They are forecasting another storm for the weekend.

Brian

March 28

After a break to recover from my cough and cold I ran my 9 mile run today in 70 min. Pretty nice day. Maggie and Minnie were quite pleased to get outside and run. We had another wrestling tourney. This one was in Walhalla. We were up by 6:30 to get there by 9:00. Brendan placed second in the 92-94 lb division at 2-1. That is excellent considering he weighed in at 83lbs. Thomas ran into some really tough wrestlers at 75lbs. He lost all three matches one by 7-6. He did not get pinned. I am a very proud Dad as they both worked very hard in their first season, were respectful, did not complain or make excuses. They had fun!

Brian

M arch 25

I have a bad cold today. There is also a winter storm. We have had about 8" of snow and quite a strong north wind. I will take a rest day today and live to run another day.

Brian

March 23

It was quite a wet run tonight. Foggy,drizzle but no too cold, about 40F. I ran 5 miles in 37:24 and was soaked by the time I made it home. Mostly my shoes as I was wearing water proof jacket and pants. I did not let the dogs come with me as we just washed the kitchen floor and did not want a muddy mess in there tonight. It looks like nasty weather for most of the rest of the week. Cold and maybe even more snow.

Brian

March 22

We had another wrestling tournament. The tournament was in Larimore from about 9-1:00. Brendan and Thomas both placed first in their weight classes. They went bowling after wards and Ellen went to a birthday party so I ran my 9 mile run. It was nice running weather about 40 with little wind. I ran the 9 miles in about 70min. Felt pretty good after the run just a bit stiff.

Brian

March 20

Very nice day. Little wind, 40F. I ran my easy 3miler in 23:45. We have another wrestling tournament tomorrow in Larimore. I will have to get my 9 mile run in later Sat or on Sunday. It looks like there may be some rain this weekend so I will have to squeeze it in somewhere when it is dry.

Brian

March 19

Making up for yesterday I ran 5.2 miles in 41:02. It was a bit colder today. About 20 with a chilly breeze. The road surface was solid. My long run this week is 9 miles on Sat or Sun.

Brian

March 18

I took the day off running for my sons birthday. Brendan is 12. It was 12 years ago we were all huddled at home during blizzard Hanah with the power off for 8 days with our 2 week old boy..Brendan.

Time goes by quickly

Brian

March 16

It was beautiful today. Almost 50 with a little breeze. The snow is melting fast but my running path was in good shape. The dogs love running through the water, it must be cold but they don't seem to mind. I ran 5.2 miles in 40:30. I had to take off clothes this time instead of adding clothes. Hopefully this will be the trend for the rest of the spring. Around 8 weeks until the Fargo marathon.

Brian

March 14

We were up by about 5:30 and drove to Casselton to another wrestling tournament. Brendan and Thomas both got second place each had 2 wins and 1 loss. We made it home by about 4:00. I ran 8 miles in 62:00. The weather was great I was able to lose some of my winter clothes for this run. Maggie and Minnie had a blast. Maggie was quite muddy by the time we made it home.

Brian

March 13

The weather is changing I think. It was 25 today with a nice southwest wind. I ran 3.1 miles in about 23:30. The temps look to be on the rise with 40 by early next week.

Brian

March 11

Another 5.2 mile run another bitter cold day. It was about -5F with a nice 10mph wind in my face for half of the run. It really was not bad with the wind at my back. Finished in 41:50. It may actually be in the 20's by Friday which will feel quite good as long as the wind stays calm.

Brian

March 9

Not a real nice day for running, but tomorrow will be even worse. It was about 12F with a 20-25mph north wind and snow. I ran 5.2 miles in 44:06. Tomorrow there is supposed to be a blizzard with 6-10" of snow and 30-40mph winds.

Brian

March 7

Very nice day for a run. It was about 20 and pretty calm. Maggie and Minnie made it all of the 7 miles. Time was about 53:00. I felt pretty good, a little bit of a stiff hamstring but it feels ok now.
Brendan and Thomas had a wresting meet this morning. Brendan placed second and Thomas placed first in their weight classes.

March 6

It was a bit cold and windy today. Nice 15-20mph wind in my face on the return route. I ran 4.1 miles in 32:00. Brendan and Thomas have a wrestling meet today in Mayville so I may have to do my long run on Sunday. I will check to see which day is supposed to be less windy.

Brian

March 4

Beautiful day for running. About 30F with a slight breeze. I ran my 4.1 miles in 30:08. I seemed to take longer than that. I must be getting into shape. I will probably do my short 3 miler tomorrow and then 7 on Sat or Sun depending on weekend activities.

Brian

March 2

Guess what I went for a run and it was windy, imagine that. I ran 4.2 miles in about 31 min. The temp was about 15 with 15-20mph south wind. It looks to be warming somewhat this week.

Brian

February 28

We cleaned and changed the kids rooms around in the morning. The boys went sledding for a birthday party and Ellen is playing with Rosebud. Temps a little better today at 9F but still a cold 10-15 mph northwest wind in my face on the way home. I ran 6 miles today at 46:55. Feeling pretty good but always a little achy after these cold runs. Maggie and Minnie had a great time so it was worth it. Looks like a slow warming trend this week. Whether it will last is another question.

Brian

February 27

Another run another cold day. Temps of about -5 but thankfully very little wind for my short 3.2 mile run this afternoon.(24:30) Longer run tomorrow but it looks to be another cold one.

Brian

February 25

The weather just will not warm up. It was about 5F this afternoon when I ran 4 miles in 30:00. The wind was out of the north at about 15 making a nice cold run. The dogs even wanted to get the run over and get inside. The forecast for the rest of the week is cold with highs in the single digits above 0 and lows in the minus teens. I have been feeling pretty good on these shorter runs but I am ready for some warmer weather.

Brian

February 23

We were up at 5:00 because Ellen (our daughter) had a chemo treatment and spinal tap for her leukemia in Fargo at Roger Maris Cancer Center. She came through it with flying colors. I decided to run when I got home at about 4:00. The wind was gusting to about 30mph temps at about 15. I ran 4 miles in about 31 min. I was going to take the day off then I saw how cheerful my daughter was after all she went through and she inspired me. Thanks Ellen.

Brian

February 22

Started long run Saturday with a 6 mile run. Temp was about 10 with a 15mph northwest wind at about noon today. I finished in 47:00 min. The dogs apparently did not think this was long enough as they ran another half mile to fetch some bagged ground meat they found in the ditch. I had to run down and take it away from them much to their dismay. I will start to increase mileage gradually now. 17 miles this week add another mile or two with each passing week.

Brian

February 20

Nice day for running, about 10F with a 20mph north wind, snow and blowing snow. I ran 3.2 miles in about 23 min. I am following the training of the Red River Runners club in GF for the half marathon so I will do 6 miles tomorrow. The remaining schedule is 4-5 mile run on Mon,Wed and Fri with long runs increasing 1 mile each Saturday or Sunday. Have a good run tomorrow runners.

Brian

February 18

It was another cold day today. So what is new. I went on a 4 mile run this afternoon when I made it home from work. The temp was about -5 with a nice 15mph wind in my face. Finished in about 30 min. I am looking forward to some warmer weather. Every time I run I think it can't be this cold for long but so far it has not stayed warm for any substantial length of time.

Brian

February 16

Back to the road work. I stayed home for Presidents day holiday today and took care of my daughter as she has a bad cold. I ran when Ann came home at about 7:30. I went 4 miles in about 31:30 and made use of my headlamp as it was quite dark. Temp was about 10 but no wind to speak of. No races until Fargo Half Marathon just a slow buildup of miles over the next 12 weeks. I have set up a good base of 4-5 mile runs over the past couple of months so that should help.

Brian

February 14

I ran in the Frozen Feat 5k today. Not a bad time 20:04. That is about 6:30/mile. Thanks to Stacy Kusler for the fun time and all of her hard work organizing the race. There was quite a nice turn out for the race even though it was about -5F at race time. It is fun to have a race during the winter, it gives a runner something to look forward to. I ended up running another mile when I got home as the dogs decided to go on a run without me. I had to run after them so they would come back. Still have to log quite a few miles to get in shape for the Fargo half marathon in May.

Brian

February 11

Went out for an easy 4 miles in 32:00. My toe felt a bit better. I think it was due to the very soft surface I was running on. I taped it to prevent it from bending back too much. I will rest a couple of days until the Frozen Feat on Saturday. It sound like the temps will be about 0F for the race.

Brian

February 10

The ice storm is over. I went out for a run after work. The roads were a bit muddy but I did find solid footing for most of the run. I went 4.5 miles in 32:40. My big toe started to hurt as I pushed off of it at the end of the run. I hope that does not last too long. Maybe one more run before the race on Saturday.

Brian

February 8

I went on a 4.2 mile run today in about 31 min. Not really feeling that great yet. The effects of the stomach bug are hanging around. Still a bit of an unsettled stomach. The weather was quite nice today about 30 F and sunny. It looks like we are in for an ice storm or winter storm this week. Hopefully I can get in another couple of runs before the Frozen Feat 5k.

Brian

February 6

Feeling a bit better today. I went on a 4 mile run. Ran in about 30 min The weather was great about 25F and no wind to speak of which is rare around here. I felt pretty good although a little weak. I lost about 5 lbs from the flu. Probably a lot of water weight.

Brian

February 5

Yuck, the stomach flu has got me down. Came down with it Tuesday night but it is not over yet.
I may have to wait until Saturday to run. My two sons also have it. There is nothing like taking care of someone with the stomach flu when you have it yourself.

Brian

February 2

Great Super Bowl game, great food, great company. Now to burn off all of that good food. Went on a 4 mile run after work. Temp was about -5 but not much wind so it went pretty well. My time was 29:30. Less than 2 weeks until the Frozen Feat 5k run. I hope the temperatures rebound a bit for the run. It would be nice to have a large turn out in Grand Forks.

Brian

February 1

Went out for a 4 mile run. It was quite nice running east 2 miles in 14:45. Running west was a different story wind directly from the west at 25mph gusting to 35 according to the weather service. Those 2 miles were in about 17:00. Luckily for me the temp was about 25F so I did not get too cold just a bit winded on the way back. I felt like my legs were running at about the same 7:30/mile pace but my body was moving about 8:30/mile.

Brian

This Photo Shows my running partners Maggie(the rowdy yellow lab) on the left, Minnie(the gentle lab cross) on the right and our runner in training Rosebud the movie star.

January 30

Ellen was sick today with the stomach flu. Now Ann has it. I fed the horses and let them rest while I went for a run. I ran 5 miles or maybe 5.5 because I had to turn around at one point and find Minnie. She found something more interesting than running at my mother-in-laws house. She finally followed and we finished in about 40 min. Nice weather for running about 25 with a slight breeze out of the southwest. There was a Great Horned Owl waiting for us upon our return.

Brian

January 28

We had a lot of homework etc to take care of tonight. I finally got to run around 8:30. It was a bit warmer tonight around 15F although rather windy. I ran 4.3 miles in 31:50. I ran about 1 mile of 10k pace and about 100yd sprint in between normal speed. The dogs were quite happy. As soon as I start getting my running clothes together they start getting excited. By the time we are out the door they have worked themselves up into a frenzy. The Frozen Feat 5k is in about 2 weeks. I need to do a few pace runs in the next couple of weeks.

Brian

January 26

Hurried home from work and ran about 3.4 miles in 26:15 before going in to pick up Brendan, Thomas and Ellen. Temp was about -2F with a stiff breeze in my face on the return route. Tried to shorten my strides to get rid of the stiffness in my hamstrings. We will see how that works.
The power was out in the house this morning. The house was down to about 55 F before it came back on. I just can't get away from the cold.

Brian

January 24

Hello, Inspired by the Red River Runners early morning run, I decided to run this afternoon. Ann and I gave our daughter Ellen a ride into Larimore for a birthday party. I rode along and ran home. It is about a 4 mile run. Temp was -4 and 15-20mph wind luckily it was a cross wind so I did not have to battle it much. It was even at my back for the last .5 miles. It ended up taking me about 29:45 for the run. The dogs were mad that they did not get to go today. I'll take the day off tomorrow so they will have to wait until Monday to run.

Brian

Saturday Sunny Very Cold Grand Forks High: -62° Fargo/Moorhead High: -5° Wind: W 10-15 mph

January 23

Four mile run again today after work in 30:30. The temp was about -5F with a 15-20mph northwest wind.
My winter running route for short runs is out (east) and back (west) so the return trips are generally pretty chilly with a prevailing northwest wind. I just have to make sure not to expose the skin for too long and breathe warmed air. I will run again Sat or Sun depending on which day has the least wind. I know the temps are supposed to be below 0.

Brian

January 21

I ran 4 miles today after work in 29:30. I am trying to do some more stretching to get my hamstrings and hips more flexible and I can feel it tonight. The weather was quite nice tonight
about 25 degrees and not much wind, just a slight breeze in my face on the return route. I am adding a picture of my lonely gravel road route. After the end of the trees it is wide open spaces.
Brian

January 19th

Stayed home with the kids today for MLK day. I ran 4 miles when Ann got home around 5:00 in 30:04. Faster than the day before as there was a 20mph cross wind instead of a headwind. The temp was nice about 25F.

January 17

I ran 4.2 miles today. (I did not make it to the run in GF with the Red River Runners as we took the kids out to Turtle River state Park.) Temp was about 32, that is 52 degrees warmer than Thursday night. First 2.1 miles in 14:20 last 2.1 against a 25mph wind and sleet in 17:30. Maggie and Minnie had no problem as usual, but I was getting a bit gassed against the wind. It is supposed to be much warmer this week, but as usually happens around here when it gets warm in the winter is also gets very windy. But it is still better than -30.

Brian

Its Cold!

January 15 Hello this blog will follow the training and day to day life of a runner from rural North Dakota. For the most part it is a log for my daily running. I have run 3 half marathons and one marathon. May 9th I will run the half marathon in Fargo, North Dakota. This blog will follow that training and beyond.
I will try to run tonight. My last run was 5 miles on Sunday. The temps have been-15 to -35 so I have not run the past 3 days. I run exclusively outside so I have some problems at this time of year.

I ran 3 miles tonight. Temp was -21F with a slight breeze. The dogs did not seem to mind, but I did not like itmuch