So, yeah. It's been a long time. I've heard:
"I miss your blog."
"You have a blog?"
"What happened to your blog?"
I've been busy living and (sometimes) running and trying to sort out things too numerous to count.
Resolutions can be strong motivators. I made one on the first of January last year. I resolved to be out of my job by the last of December. You see, I didn't like my job - in ways too numerous to count although I wasn't really doing anything about it.
As the year went on, the count increased along with my unhappiness. I wasn't sleeping well. I was gaining weight. I was losing interest in activities that used to make me happy. Look up depression in the dictionary. Doesn't matter which one, any will do. I was a textbook case. I was also irritable, struggling very hard to focus, and withdrawn. I was not only depressed, I was burned out.
Several things happened in rapid order: My job responsibilities increased dramatically without increase in compensation. I lost my lease and had to move immediately. I required surgery (that called for at least two weeks off work and six weeks off running). My work hours increased on top of the additional job responsibilities.
Do you remember the experiments we did in Chemistry class to demonstrate saturation? We'd take a glass beaker and fill it with solution, heat it up, stir in another solution - bit by bit - until, Presto! A precipitate would form in the beaker and we'd document the exact time/temperature/volumes at which we'd created a snowstorm in a glass.
My snowstorm happened on the twenty-first of November. It wasn't really that cold outside but when I left a meeting and walked into the fresh air, I knew that I was saturated and that I was doing something. Finally.
By the thirty-first of December, my resolution was accomplished.
So that's behind me now.
Let's move on.
Remember those six weeks of no running? Sure made a marathon last weekend seem difficult. Once cleared to walk, I did. I switched to the half marathon and with very few training miles under my belt ran it anyway. I'm happy to tell you that I finished and I have the t-shirt. (And a medal.)
Thanks to my faithful friends and readers who encourage me. I'm excited about the next chapter(s) in my book. What's most exciting is that I get to write them every day. I didn't make a New Year's resolution this year. Instead, I've made lists - too numerous to count.
Stay tuned.
©Michelle Scofield, January 22, 2015, All Rights Reserved
Showing posts with label marathon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label marathon. Show all posts
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Recap of This Week's Great Things
I've been trying to think of a way to quantify the gratitudes that I've experienced this week. They slide on a scale that's difficult for me to gauge. Just when I think I have an understanding of how thankful I am, something happens to nudge me further along my path of quasi-comprehension.
Rather than try to rank them, I'll put them in a list in more-or-less chronologic order. More-or-less.
I made the decision to do my mid-week runs after work rather than risk ankle-turning morning darkness. Along with this decision came what appears to be some sort of acclimation to 90 degree plus temperatures at 5:30 PM.
My Advil usage has declined dramatically since I started drinking a cup of ginger tea each evening. (I'm steeping fresh ginger for this.) I'm not advocating that anyone ELSE use ginger. It's working for me. It's likely placebo effect. I only know that I was taking an overabundance of Advil and took only 400.mg total in the last week. HUGE change for me.
The cause of my eye problems seems to be...wait for it...age. I've been dealing with red eyes, dry eyes, and problems with blurred vision for several weeks. I threw out all my makeup, I've done all the things I would tell my patients to do, and I saw my eye doctor a couple days ago. I'm not good at making tears anymore. No, it's not a metaphor. After plunking down a hundred bucks for medicine, I'm starting to feel better. I'm very relieved it's not something more serious.
White Linen Nights in the Heights is a huge deal. It's a see and be seen scene notorious for traffic tie-ups. Last night I went to exactly one event at one gallery and I had a great time. I received hugs from my friends, had a glass of champagne, socialized for a bit and then went home. Perfect White Linen Night for me. (See the above paragraph re: age.)
I accepted that I'd have to order a Fitbit in order to comply with upcoming health insurance changes at work. This was a source of grumbling and dragging of heals for me. After receiving the device, I promised myself to use it. (What's one more fitness tracker, right?) I lost it this morning. The kind employees at HEB found it and had it waiting for me at the Customer Service desk. That's like finding a hundred bucks. (Yes, that hundred bucks!) I wrote a glowing letter to HEB. I hope those employees are recognized for helping me. I really do. I am uber appreciative.
I continue to have friendly and interesting people come into my life. Today I met two fascinating guys who write about baseball. Their enthusiasm for the game and for their craft was exciting to see and I enjoyed sharing a cup of coffee with them. I'm encouraged to see people who strive to spend their time working at their passions and living in gratitude.
Finally, I found a gift of a video. It's called "Mile...Mile and a Half". It's a documentary that follows a team along the John Muir Trail. Artists, photographers, videographers, hikers, nature lovers - consider watching this film. It's available on Netflix and it's gorgeous. I watched a little each evening before drifting off to sleep. The colors and sounds are amazing. It made me want to hike. It was that good.
©Michelle Scofield, August 3, 2014, All Rights Reserved
Rather than try to rank them, I'll put them in a list in more-or-less chronologic order. More-or-less.
I made the decision to do my mid-week runs after work rather than risk ankle-turning morning darkness. Along with this decision came what appears to be some sort of acclimation to 90 degree plus temperatures at 5:30 PM.
My Advil usage has declined dramatically since I started drinking a cup of ginger tea each evening. (I'm steeping fresh ginger for this.) I'm not advocating that anyone ELSE use ginger. It's working for me. It's likely placebo effect. I only know that I was taking an overabundance of Advil and took only 400.mg total in the last week. HUGE change for me.
The cause of my eye problems seems to be...wait for it...age. I've been dealing with red eyes, dry eyes, and problems with blurred vision for several weeks. I threw out all my makeup, I've done all the things I would tell my patients to do, and I saw my eye doctor a couple days ago. I'm not good at making tears anymore. No, it's not a metaphor. After plunking down a hundred bucks for medicine, I'm starting to feel better. I'm very relieved it's not something more serious.
White Linen Nights in the Heights is a huge deal. It's a see and be seen scene notorious for traffic tie-ups. Last night I went to exactly one event at one gallery and I had a great time. I received hugs from my friends, had a glass of champagne, socialized for a bit and then went home. Perfect White Linen Night for me. (See the above paragraph re: age.)
I accepted that I'd have to order a Fitbit in order to comply with upcoming health insurance changes at work. This was a source of grumbling and dragging of heals for me. After receiving the device, I promised myself to use it. (What's one more fitness tracker, right?) I lost it this morning. The kind employees at HEB found it and had it waiting for me at the Customer Service desk. That's like finding a hundred bucks. (Yes, that hundred bucks!) I wrote a glowing letter to HEB. I hope those employees are recognized for helping me. I really do. I am uber appreciative.
I continue to have friendly and interesting people come into my life. Today I met two fascinating guys who write about baseball. Their enthusiasm for the game and for their craft was exciting to see and I enjoyed sharing a cup of coffee with them. I'm encouraged to see people who strive to spend their time working at their passions and living in gratitude.
Finally, I found a gift of a video. It's called "Mile...Mile and a Half". It's a documentary that follows a team along the John Muir Trail. Artists, photographers, videographers, hikers, nature lovers - consider watching this film. It's available on Netflix and it's gorgeous. I watched a little each evening before drifting off to sleep. The colors and sounds are amazing. It made me want to hike. It was that good.
©Michelle Scofield, August 3, 2014, All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Blue Tanzanite Christmas in July
"I hope you don't mind if I run next to you. You just keep going and I want to quit. But you don't quit"
I wanted to quit. The stairs were right there, ten feet away. My plan 15 seconds prior had been to head for those stairs. I kept running with her.
It was unbelievably hot and humid in Progresso, Mexico. The ship was docked and there was no breeze. Not a whiff. My clothes were soaked through. My Tuesday was to go like this: sleep in, shower, eat breakfast, then make my way to the spa for a long-anticipated full-body massage. I woke earlier than expected and did what I do when I have extra time on my hands. I made my way to the 10th deck's tiny track and started running. The thing was...I didn't have much oomph. After 15 minutes of pushing myself and cursing myself, I wasn't enjoying it and I wanted to quit and take that shower. I was starting to consider my breakfast. Then she told me I don't quit.
So I ran next to her and we talked about why we run. She's a teacher and she is determined to set a good example for her students. She wants to be able to tell them (when/if they ask) what she does for exercise. She runs. Her name is Holly. She was traveling with her family, none of whom share her passion for running and she was getting up and exercising before any of them started their day so she didn't cause a kink in the vacation works. She talked about balancing her desire to party with the gang and still wake up early and run. She talked quite a bit while we ran and honestly she was a LOT younger than me so I was happy just to let her talk while I concentrated on not guppy breathing in the thick Mexican air.
A couple days later, I was having a little difficulty finding a lounger in the shade. After a full day in the sun at Cozumel, I needed shade. Ah! I spotted one next to a woman and a teenish-looking girl. I arranged my book, my phone, my earbuds, and looked around for a waiter. Time for a cold drink and some quiet time. The woman next to me turned out to be a talker. That turned out to be an okay thing.
She is originally from Serbia and is recently divorced. She is apparently doing everything she always wanted to do but her husband didn't allow. She obtained a driver's license. She cut her hair. She got a tattoo. She is traveling - a lot. The girl on the chair next to her is her granddaughter. Last month my new friend took another granddaughter to Disney World. She will go to California for Christmas - with her divorced male neighbor.
She will never marry again but plans to take, "as many lovers as will have me". She tells me all her friends call her Snow.
I met Steve at a bar on the ship. He's also divorced and the father of 1 son and 2 daughters. His girls were his travel mates. They're old enough to spend time on their own, which they did for a good part of the cruise. We talked over cocktails most evenings and went to a couple shows together. Steve and I shared laughs with the bartenders and with other passengers. There is a wonderful phenomenon that can happen when traveling with strangers. Past and present journeys somehow get mixed together in the telling of tales at the end of the day. One evening, Steve told me how he lost his relationship with his son. He told me that it was embarrassing to admit his fault as a parent. All I could do was reassure him and let him know he isn't traveling alone on that particular journey.
I've been suffering from post-vacation blues. It seems as if as soon as I got back home I was hit with a crazy work schedule including covering another hospital - which doubles my time spent in rush hour traffic. I started marathon training and knowing I have runs planted on my calender makes me feel simultaneously resentful and relieved. January is a long way off and some afternoons are as hot as Progresso out there as I step out the door for my runs. I'm doing what I can to stay motivated, including asking for a week off work in August. Hopefully a friend will be flying in to town to help me enjoy it. I'm trying to figure out a way to spend Christmas with friends and/or family. (I feel like I was given a particularly big nudge by Holly and Snow regarding that.)
Me and those blues. We're not strangers to each other. I know how to keep them at bay, even if I don't rid myself of them forever. I think they're wound into my DNA. My helix runs a deep shade of Tanzanite. (That's a reference JUST for you, Jacque and Raquel.)
When I was running the other day, I was tempted, again, to give up. (That's how it works, you know. It's damned HARD to keep going when it's 95 degrees out and you've been up since 5:30 am and have worked a full day.) I was listening to music. "Falling Slowly" from "Once" started playing. I was back in London, a trip I worked my ass off to pay for. I was in the theatre listening to one of the most beautiful songs ever written and sung.
"Take this sinking boat and point it home.
We've still got time.
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice."
Always. I have a choice. Running on.
©Michelle Scofield, July 30 2014, All Rights Reserved
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Trucks
8.21 miles 1:46:00 9:10 am 72 degrees 12:55 pace
It rained (gently) the first 20 minutes of my run. I was prepared to face it and had decided to take most of it on pavement. My route today was: Almeda to Hermann, over to Binz/Bissonett, up to Ashby, across to the Rice trail. I ran around Rice, back to Bissonett, then over to Hermann Park, around the golf course, and home.
2 themes.
Puddles and Trucks.
I jumped over puddles. I ran around puddles. I did my best to avoid them. Some, I simply couldn't. Last night it rained like crazy in this neighborhood and it hasn't soaked in yet. The Rice path was a muddy mess.
I saw trucks I haven't noticed before. The one from Hotel Za Za that is a (what?) Hummer with longhorns on the front. I guess it's their limo. I think I'd take a cab. :)
I saw a double decker bus giving a tour of the museum district. It was a hop-on/hop-off number like they have by the thousands in London. I had no idea they were operating in Houston.
Some bubba had his pickup blocking the sidewalk in The Village. It was in front of one of those McMansions. Guess he hasn't gotten that far in his lessons about money buying class.
Rounding my last big curve at Hermann Park, I came upon a tree service truck spraying something from a massive tank onto standing water on the ground. I had a decision to make. The worker was gloved. I can't remember if he was masked. There was a little breeze. I was almost dead on my feet and if I turned around, I would add another mile to my run. I decided to sprint past him and hold my breath. A good way past him was an older couple with a little girl in a stroller. They were stopped and seemed to be discussing what to do. I stopped to talk to them. I told them I didn't know what he was spraying. They decided to turn around and go back the way they came. I'm really glad they did. Bone marrow is precious - as was their little girl. (Who knows if the stuff was hazardous to humans?)
Last truck. I arrived home and a food truck was parked in front of my place. The Waffle Truck. I stopped to talk to a couple of my neighbors who were sitting on the steps and enjoying lunch. It smelled wonderful. I happened to have my mini-credit card with me. (I carry it with me on long runs in case I need to stop and buy a bottle of water.) So...I had a waffle and chicken sandwich. Yummo!
I took a hot bath with epson salts. I took a nap.
And now, I'll see what else Saturday has to offer.
Happy Weekend!
©Michelle Scofield, September 21, 2013 All Rights Reserved
It rained (gently) the first 20 minutes of my run. I was prepared to face it and had decided to take most of it on pavement. My route today was: Almeda to Hermann, over to Binz/Bissonett, up to Ashby, across to the Rice trail. I ran around Rice, back to Bissonett, then over to Hermann Park, around the golf course, and home.
2 themes.
Puddles and Trucks.
I jumped over puddles. I ran around puddles. I did my best to avoid them. Some, I simply couldn't. Last night it rained like crazy in this neighborhood and it hasn't soaked in yet. The Rice path was a muddy mess.
I saw trucks I haven't noticed before. The one from Hotel Za Za that is a (what?) Hummer with longhorns on the front. I guess it's their limo. I think I'd take a cab. :)
I saw a double decker bus giving a tour of the museum district. It was a hop-on/hop-off number like they have by the thousands in London. I had no idea they were operating in Houston.
Some bubba had his pickup blocking the sidewalk in The Village. It was in front of one of those McMansions. Guess he hasn't gotten that far in his lessons about money buying class.
Rounding my last big curve at Hermann Park, I came upon a tree service truck spraying something from a massive tank onto standing water on the ground. I had a decision to make. The worker was gloved. I can't remember if he was masked. There was a little breeze. I was almost dead on my feet and if I turned around, I would add another mile to my run. I decided to sprint past him and hold my breath. A good way past him was an older couple with a little girl in a stroller. They were stopped and seemed to be discussing what to do. I stopped to talk to them. I told them I didn't know what he was spraying. They decided to turn around and go back the way they came. I'm really glad they did. Bone marrow is precious - as was their little girl. (Who knows if the stuff was hazardous to humans?)
Last truck. I arrived home and a food truck was parked in front of my place. The Waffle Truck. I stopped to talk to a couple of my neighbors who were sitting on the steps and enjoying lunch. It smelled wonderful. I happened to have my mini-credit card with me. (I carry it with me on long runs in case I need to stop and buy a bottle of water.) So...I had a waffle and chicken sandwich. Yummo!
I took a hot bath with epson salts. I took a nap.
And now, I'll see what else Saturday has to offer.
Happy Weekend!
©Michelle Scofield, September 21, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Life's a Beach
3.33 Miles 42:21 12:45 pace 5:15 pm 84 degrees and raining
I was looking forward to this all day. I imagined the rain cooling my skin. I had my visor so I could wear my glasses. I'd already decided to wear my current running shoes. They would dry out and it's just not worth trying to deal with heel pain secondary to a shoe switch.
I headed across the street to the park. It seemed I had the place to myself. Almost. I came across 3 other runners, 1 guy walking his dog, and 2 crazy bike riders.
It wasn't ridiculously hot.
Here's the thing. Have you ever run on wet sand at the beach?
Yeah, it was like that. I sank in and pushed off on...
Every. Single. Step.
My butt began to ache after the first mile.
I zigged and zagged across the trail, tightroping on curbing when I couldn't hurdle-jump the biggest puddles.
Great workout.
Happy Thursday. Tomorrow is my rest day. Rest from running. I'm super-thrilled that it's the end of the work week. Super. Thrilled.
Super!
That's pretty darned thrilled.
©Michelle Scofield, September 19, 2013 All Rights Reserved
I was looking forward to this all day. I imagined the rain cooling my skin. I had my visor so I could wear my glasses. I'd already decided to wear my current running shoes. They would dry out and it's just not worth trying to deal with heel pain secondary to a shoe switch.
I headed across the street to the park. It seemed I had the place to myself. Almost. I came across 3 other runners, 1 guy walking his dog, and 2 crazy bike riders.
It wasn't ridiculously hot.
Here's the thing. Have you ever run on wet sand at the beach?
Yeah, it was like that. I sank in and pushed off on...
Every. Single. Step.
My butt began to ache after the first mile.
I zigged and zagged across the trail, tightroping on curbing when I couldn't hurdle-jump the biggest puddles.
Great workout.
Happy Thursday. Tomorrow is my rest day. Rest from running. I'm super-thrilled that it's the end of the work week. Super. Thrilled.
Super!
That's pretty darned thrilled.
©Michelle Scofield, September 19, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Rounded Up to Five
4.91 miles 5:30 pm 1:05 13:14 pace 90 degrees
Good grief! It's hot. I carried a bottle of water with me and I wanted to quit about a hundred times.
Today was another wildly busy day at work. The temptation was to pass on tonight's mileage. I'm really trying, here. Being on my feet from 7:30 to 4:00 (with a half hour break for lunch) makes me think, "You already exercised." Nah, not really.
I know these things:
The weather will break - someday.
The clinic schedule will let up. Maybe.
There's always the weekend.
Happy Wednesday.
©Michelle Scofield, September 18, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Good grief! It's hot. I carried a bottle of water with me and I wanted to quit about a hundred times.
Today was another wildly busy day at work. The temptation was to pass on tonight's mileage. I'm really trying, here. Being on my feet from 7:30 to 4:00 (with a half hour break for lunch) makes me think, "You already exercised." Nah, not really.
I know these things:
The weather will break - someday.
The clinic schedule will let up. Maybe.
There's always the weekend.
Happy Wednesday.
©Michelle Scofield, September 18, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Here We Go!
3.01 miles 36:26 12:06 pace 91 degrees
My Hal Higdon Marathon Training has officially started. Last night was cross-training. Planks, kettle bells, pushups.
Today it's hot as hell but I needed to get out there. Missing the first run on the spreadsheet would have felt defeating. Currently, I'm not open to defeat.
No speed-racing with the temp and humidity as high as it is. I'm easing my way into this. My sincere desire is to get through this training without injury or illness.
Happy Tuesday! I'm looking forward to the rest of the week.
©Michelle Scofield, September 17, 2013 All Rights Reserved
My Hal Higdon Marathon Training has officially started. Last night was cross-training. Planks, kettle bells, pushups.
Today it's hot as hell but I needed to get out there. Missing the first run on the spreadsheet would have felt defeating. Currently, I'm not open to defeat.
No speed-racing with the temp and humidity as high as it is. I'm easing my way into this. My sincere desire is to get through this training without injury or illness.
Happy Tuesday! I'm looking forward to the rest of the week.
©Michelle Scofield, September 17, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Happier Background Music
7:10am 75 degrees 4.02 miles 47:16 11:45 pace
One of the weather sites says 100% humidity. I thought that meant it was raining. I'm no meteorologist so I haven't a clue as to what's correct but, dang! It's humid! It also smells like someone's burning a wood pile out there. Or maybe there was a house fire. Whatever. I coughed and "ahem'd" my way through my morning run. I have an inhaler prescription for exercise-induced asthma. Today was the first time in a long time that I felt symptoms and thought about using it pre-run next time.
Excuse me while I go check the air quality on another site...
...The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality says it's all within the "Good" Range. Guess it's just the humidity.
Lately I'm finding myself in a bit of an excuse-making mode. Since completing last year's marathon and taking time off to recover, I honestly haven't wanted to run again. It's a drag. It's time-consuming. It hurts. I got so busy at work that I was overcome with fatigue and couldn't manage a run. My legs felt like lead. I put on 15 of the pounds that I dropped during marathon training. (It's no wonder my legs felt heavy!) I moved and it's not safe to run in my new neighborhood in the very early morning. It's been too hot to run in the evenings.
Here's the thing about running. For me.
I keep depression at bay with what I admit is sheer defiance. When I'm not running, I white knuckle my way through my days. Running not only gives me something to look forward to, I absolutely believe it raises my seratonin levels and acts as a natural antidepressant.
Training for the 2014 Houston Marathon begins next week. I'm feeling more positive about running and more excited about it. I know it's not going to be easy. Last year I didn't use music much while I ran but I tried it again yesterday and I was happy for the diversion. I think there has been so much negative out there pushing it's way into my head and I need to find a way to drown it out. I'll be checking out Itunes for kicky stuff to make me smile while I'm on the trails.
Yeah, yeah. The negative stuff needs to be dealt with. Maybe. Some of it. Some of it will never change. (Going back to my 12 steps again. They come in handy.) Running is for ME! Reworking someone else's garbage during my time, in my running shoes, doesn't seem to be productive or healthy.
I hereby declare this marathon training season mine. I don't need to solve the problems of work or world while I run. I'm going to do my very best to enjoy it.
There! I feel better already. Kind of. :)
©Michelle Scofield, September 15, 2013 All Rights Reserved
One of the weather sites says 100% humidity. I thought that meant it was raining. I'm no meteorologist so I haven't a clue as to what's correct but, dang! It's humid! It also smells like someone's burning a wood pile out there. Or maybe there was a house fire. Whatever. I coughed and "ahem'd" my way through my morning run. I have an inhaler prescription for exercise-induced asthma. Today was the first time in a long time that I felt symptoms and thought about using it pre-run next time.
Excuse me while I go check the air quality on another site...
...The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality says it's all within the "Good" Range. Guess it's just the humidity.
Lately I'm finding myself in a bit of an excuse-making mode. Since completing last year's marathon and taking time off to recover, I honestly haven't wanted to run again. It's a drag. It's time-consuming. It hurts. I got so busy at work that I was overcome with fatigue and couldn't manage a run. My legs felt like lead. I put on 15 of the pounds that I dropped during marathon training. (It's no wonder my legs felt heavy!) I moved and it's not safe to run in my new neighborhood in the very early morning. It's been too hot to run in the evenings.
Here's the thing about running. For me.
I keep depression at bay with what I admit is sheer defiance. When I'm not running, I white knuckle my way through my days. Running not only gives me something to look forward to, I absolutely believe it raises my seratonin levels and acts as a natural antidepressant.
Training for the 2014 Houston Marathon begins next week. I'm feeling more positive about running and more excited about it. I know it's not going to be easy. Last year I didn't use music much while I ran but I tried it again yesterday and I was happy for the diversion. I think there has been so much negative out there pushing it's way into my head and I need to find a way to drown it out. I'll be checking out Itunes for kicky stuff to make me smile while I'm on the trails.
Yeah, yeah. The negative stuff needs to be dealt with. Maybe. Some of it. Some of it will never change. (Going back to my 12 steps again. They come in handy.) Running is for ME! Reworking someone else's garbage during my time, in my running shoes, doesn't seem to be productive or healthy.
I hereby declare this marathon training season mine. I don't need to solve the problems of work or world while I run. I'm going to do my very best to enjoy it.
There! I feel better already. Kind of. :)
©Michelle Scofield, September 15, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Bzzzzz
7:00am 75degrees 2.6 miles 31.3 12:07 pace
It's not getting any cooler. Oh, the thermometer may say it's cooler but it doesn't feel like it. The grass in the park was covered with dew this morning and my fellow joggers and I were soaked with sweat as we made our way around the trail.
I alternated 5 minute run with 1 minute walk today.
Just when it was time to run, I'd notice a mosquito had landed on me. Guess when you're moving faster you're not such an easy target? I also had one in my mouth. In. My. Mouth. I didn't spit. I'm not THAT runner. But, c'mon! That's just disgusting.
So if you're headed outside, bug spray!
My Hal Higdon marathon training schedule starts September 16. Almost here.
©Michelle Scofield, September 8, 2013 All Rights Reserved
It's not getting any cooler. Oh, the thermometer may say it's cooler but it doesn't feel like it. The grass in the park was covered with dew this morning and my fellow joggers and I were soaked with sweat as we made our way around the trail.
I alternated 5 minute run with 1 minute walk today.
Just when it was time to run, I'd notice a mosquito had landed on me. Guess when you're moving faster you're not such an easy target? I also had one in my mouth. In. My. Mouth. I didn't spit. I'm not THAT runner. But, c'mon! That's just disgusting.
So if you're headed outside, bug spray!
My Hal Higdon marathon training schedule starts September 16. Almost here.
©Michelle Scofield, September 8, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Holding Back and Other Rules to Go By
7:16am 75 degrees 2.32 miles 28:59 12:30 pace (ran a little, walked a little)
The ankle is feeling better. I'm aware I tweeked it a couple weeks ago. The swelling is gone. The entire ankle/heel complex is a bundle of confusion for me. I don't know what's what. I'm going slightly stir crazy so I knew I had to get out and move this morning. Missing outdoor cardio is not good for my brain chemistry.
Fresh air + sunshine + increased heart rate = increased saratonin levels.
My right knee has a point of tenderness medially. I'm not sure if it's patellar or deeper. It's nagging but it bothers me most when I'm inactive. I hope it's arthritic in nature. I hope. When hoping wears thin, I'll go to the Orthopedist.
Positives: The park was full of people out enjoying the relative coolness of the morning compared to the rest of what's forecast for the day. There were also plenty of squirrels and birds. A huge flock of pigeons landed in a tree as I passed by the statue of the General on his horse. I felt the dewdrops falling around me. I hope they were dew drops and not doo drops. One rule I've learned about jogging in the park.
Look forward, not up.
Oh, and Happy Birthday, Brett! Rule #1 and #1000 and #1,000,000! Tell those you love that you do. I love you.
©Michelle Scofield, September 1, 2013 All Rights Reserved
The ankle is feeling better. I'm aware I tweeked it a couple weeks ago. The swelling is gone. The entire ankle/heel complex is a bundle of confusion for me. I don't know what's what. I'm going slightly stir crazy so I knew I had to get out and move this morning. Missing outdoor cardio is not good for my brain chemistry.
Fresh air + sunshine + increased heart rate = increased saratonin levels.
My right knee has a point of tenderness medially. I'm not sure if it's patellar or deeper. It's nagging but it bothers me most when I'm inactive. I hope it's arthritic in nature. I hope. When hoping wears thin, I'll go to the Orthopedist.
Positives: The park was full of people out enjoying the relative coolness of the morning compared to the rest of what's forecast for the day. There were also plenty of squirrels and birds. A huge flock of pigeons landed in a tree as I passed by the statue of the General on his horse. I felt the dewdrops falling around me. I hope they were dew drops and not doo drops. One rule I've learned about jogging in the park.
Look forward, not up.
Oh, and Happy Birthday, Brett! Rule #1 and #1000 and #1,000,000! Tell those you love that you do. I love you.
©Michelle Scofield, September 1, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Uphill
7:30am 79 degrees 2.04 miles 25:12 12:36 pace
That hill at Hermann Park has been calling to me since I moved back into the neighborhood. Today I stepped up. Tomorrow I'll feel it. I consider myself lucky to have such a fantastic playground across the street from me. I need to add dips on the benches, pushups, and pullups. I'm enthusiastic but not enough to add it all at once. My joints remind me how old they are, even if my brain doesn't. Intensity will make me stronger. It always does. In running or in life.
Happy Saturday.
©Michelle Scofield, August 24, 2013 All Rights Reserved
That hill at Hermann Park has been calling to me since I moved back into the neighborhood. Today I stepped up. Tomorrow I'll feel it. I consider myself lucky to have such a fantastic playground across the street from me. I need to add dips on the benches, pushups, and pullups. I'm enthusiastic but not enough to add it all at once. My joints remind me how old they are, even if my brain doesn't. Intensity will make me stronger. It always does. In running or in life.
Happy Saturday.
©Michelle Scofield, August 24, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Hazards in the Road
3.20miles 37:45 11:48 pace 7:20am 73degrees
The storm that blew through last night left scattered debris in the park. Trees are down. Golfers are navigating around wayward trashcans and benches. I was excited to be out there in the cool air. I'm not sure what I stepped on, if I stepped on anything. It may have been a twig or a clump of Spanish Moss. I may have been distracted by the view around me.
Whatever.
I rolled my ankle. Spectacularly. I almost fell but I didn't. I wheeled my arms and righted myself and then I started talking to myself. Out loud.
That always cracks me up. So I started laughing.
Are you following me? I'm running, I'm floundering around, I'm talking out loud and then I'm laughing. I'm not WITH anyone. There are people around me and I'm in a park where many, many junkies and schizophrenics reside.
Moving on.
That's what I decided to do. I moved on.
I tested out the ankle. It hurt like a mother but I could ambulate. I walked gingerly for a little minute, then I decided I could do more. I was less than half a mile into my run. There was no way I was going to waste a morning or beautiful weather. I sped up to a jog and finished my run.
I came home and elevated the foot and applied an ice pack. I don't see any discoloration. There may be some mild swelling, I'm not sure if I'm imagining that or not. It's slightly tender. I'll ice and elevate through the day.
I'm going to see a movie with a friend later but I'll take it easy for the most part.
I'm really glad I kept going. So many times in my life I've let a small hit stop me in my tracks. I believe that was my habit of living in fear rather than curiosity and developing confidence. I choose the motion option.
©Michelle Scofield, August 16, 2013 All Rights Reserved
The storm that blew through last night left scattered debris in the park. Trees are down. Golfers are navigating around wayward trashcans and benches. I was excited to be out there in the cool air. I'm not sure what I stepped on, if I stepped on anything. It may have been a twig or a clump of Spanish Moss. I may have been distracted by the view around me.
Whatever.
I rolled my ankle. Spectacularly. I almost fell but I didn't. I wheeled my arms and righted myself and then I started talking to myself. Out loud.
That always cracks me up. So I started laughing.
Are you following me? I'm running, I'm floundering around, I'm talking out loud and then I'm laughing. I'm not WITH anyone. There are people around me and I'm in a park where many, many junkies and schizophrenics reside.
Moving on.
That's what I decided to do. I moved on.
I tested out the ankle. It hurt like a mother but I could ambulate. I walked gingerly for a little minute, then I decided I could do more. I was less than half a mile into my run. There was no way I was going to waste a morning or beautiful weather. I sped up to a jog and finished my run.
I came home and elevated the foot and applied an ice pack. I don't see any discoloration. There may be some mild swelling, I'm not sure if I'm imagining that or not. It's slightly tender. I'll ice and elevate through the day.
I'm going to see a movie with a friend later but I'll take it easy for the most part.
I'm really glad I kept going. So many times in my life I've let a small hit stop me in my tracks. I believe that was my habit of living in fear rather than curiosity and developing confidence. I choose the motion option.
©Michelle Scofield, August 16, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Making Lemonwater out of Lemons and Water
4:30pm 97degrees 2.13 miles 27:43 13:01 pace
All I wanted to do today was move. It didn't have to be fast. It's dangerously hot so my goal was to get past 20 minutes without having to hail one of the passing Texas Medical Center ambulance crews for a defibrillator.
I jogged through the sunny patches and walked through the shade.
I'm a little sore from an excellent yoga class last night and I didn't want to come home from work and sit around and add to my soreness.
Day before yesterday, I rode the stationary bike for 30 minutes. (The bike display said I went 9 miles. I didn't move forward one inch.) I'm thrilled to have such a beautiful gym to use but I feel claustrophobic exercising indoors - even with the beautiful view of the park. Or maybe BECAUSE of the beautiful view of the park. I considered using a treadmill today but I simply had to be out there. It's a big draw for me. It's one of the reasons I moved to this place.
I'm sipping a glass of water with a big squeeze of lemon juice and a dash of salt. Yes, I forgot to buy Gatorade. And yes, it's basically the same thing. Surprise! It tastes pretty good. There are lots of recipes on the net for homemade sports drinks. Some add sugar or coconut water. Most have a base of water, citrus, and salt. I'll add something vitamin rich to my dinner tonight, too. I don't want to ask for trouble. I know the heat is nothing to play with but it's nice to have a park so close.
©Michelle Scofield, August 13, 2013 All Rights Reserved
All I wanted to do today was move. It didn't have to be fast. It's dangerously hot so my goal was to get past 20 minutes without having to hail one of the passing Texas Medical Center ambulance crews for a defibrillator.
I jogged through the sunny patches and walked through the shade.
I'm a little sore from an excellent yoga class last night and I didn't want to come home from work and sit around and add to my soreness.
Day before yesterday, I rode the stationary bike for 30 minutes. (The bike display said I went 9 miles. I didn't move forward one inch.) I'm thrilled to have such a beautiful gym to use but I feel claustrophobic exercising indoors - even with the beautiful view of the park. Or maybe BECAUSE of the beautiful view of the park. I considered using a treadmill today but I simply had to be out there. It's a big draw for me. It's one of the reasons I moved to this place.
I'm sipping a glass of water with a big squeeze of lemon juice and a dash of salt. Yes, I forgot to buy Gatorade. And yes, it's basically the same thing. Surprise! It tastes pretty good. There are lots of recipes on the net for homemade sports drinks. Some add sugar or coconut water. Most have a base of water, citrus, and salt. I'll add something vitamin rich to my dinner tonight, too. I don't want to ask for trouble. I know the heat is nothing to play with but it's nice to have a park so close.
©Michelle Scofield, August 13, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Trail of Metaphors - Shifting Sand
10:30am 84degrees 3.1miles 38:07 12:18 pace
I love this new place and rainy weekends. I'm sleeping so much better - and later. I guess my last place was more detrimental to my sleep pattern than I ever realized. After all, my windows faced a brick wall that overlooked a canyon that sent sound upwards, disrupting my attempts at rest. Now I'm lulled to sleep by the sound of wind up high and traffic far below. I'm in a city space full of white noise.
I woke this morning to thunder, followed soon thereafter by the foghorn blasts of the lightening warning at the golf course across the street. I would have to put off my run. I fixed a couple of eggs, and an English muffin. I waited and stepped out on my balcony to finish my coffee. A rainbow signaled to me that it was time to put on my shoes and aim for the break in the storm.
There were only a few people in the park and I stepped around puddles trying my best to keep my recently purchased shoes from being soaked. I was surprised at how difficult it was to keep my footing on the trail. I wasn't expecting the gravel to shift so much. I was prepared for the concrete to give me trouble. Slippery when wet and all. This morning's jog was like my week. I was able to navigate obvious hazards but I still ended up with muddy sneakers where I least expected it.
The last half mile was a little dicey. The dark clouds reappeared along with big booms of thunder. I can handle dirty shoes and wet clothes. Lightening strikes, not so much. The rain resumed almost as soon as I returned home.
My preferance would have been to veg on the couch this morning. I'm deadass tired after last week. Sitting leads to more sitting. My gratitude this morning is for:
That little break in the rain.
That stubborn part of me that says, "Get up! You haven't been broken yet, you're not going to break."
Those of you who give me encouragement, inspiration, and an occasional nudge.
You're my rainbows!!!
Thank you.
Love, love.
©Michelle Scofield, August 10, 2013 All Rights Reserved
I love this new place and rainy weekends. I'm sleeping so much better - and later. I guess my last place was more detrimental to my sleep pattern than I ever realized. After all, my windows faced a brick wall that overlooked a canyon that sent sound upwards, disrupting my attempts at rest. Now I'm lulled to sleep by the sound of wind up high and traffic far below. I'm in a city space full of white noise.
I woke this morning to thunder, followed soon thereafter by the foghorn blasts of the lightening warning at the golf course across the street. I would have to put off my run. I fixed a couple of eggs, and an English muffin. I waited and stepped out on my balcony to finish my coffee. A rainbow signaled to me that it was time to put on my shoes and aim for the break in the storm.
There were only a few people in the park and I stepped around puddles trying my best to keep my recently purchased shoes from being soaked. I was surprised at how difficult it was to keep my footing on the trail. I wasn't expecting the gravel to shift so much. I was prepared for the concrete to give me trouble. Slippery when wet and all. This morning's jog was like my week. I was able to navigate obvious hazards but I still ended up with muddy sneakers where I least expected it.
The last half mile was a little dicey. The dark clouds reappeared along with big booms of thunder. I can handle dirty shoes and wet clothes. Lightening strikes, not so much. The rain resumed almost as soon as I returned home.
My preferance would have been to veg on the couch this morning. I'm deadass tired after last week. Sitting leads to more sitting. My gratitude this morning is for:
That little break in the rain.
That stubborn part of me that says, "Get up! You haven't been broken yet, you're not going to break."
Those of you who give me encouragement, inspiration, and an occasional nudge.
You're my rainbows!!!
Thank you.
Love, love.
©Michelle Scofield, August 10, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Weighed Down with Facts
7:10 am 75 degrees 2.89 miles 35.25 12:17 pace
Ran most of it, walked a small part of it. My legs feel heavy. It's been a rough week emotionally.
I do my best not to carry my work home.
It's not always easy.
(I woke this morning from a dream about a sick patient I can no longer help.)
I need to run more.
It's not easy. It's easier to fall into dinner and a chair after work.
(It's hot as hell and it takes planning and care to go for a run and remain any sort of hydrated.)
Fact. The less I run, the worse I feel.
Fact. The less I run, the harder it is to run.
Fact. When I run, for those thirty to how-ever-many-minutes, my brain goes on a splendorous free association journey and it's rarely at work. Look! A bluejay!
©Michelle Scofield, August 3, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Ran most of it, walked a small part of it. My legs feel heavy. It's been a rough week emotionally.
I do my best not to carry my work home.
It's not always easy.
(I woke this morning from a dream about a sick patient I can no longer help.)
I need to run more.
It's not easy. It's easier to fall into dinner and a chair after work.
(It's hot as hell and it takes planning and care to go for a run and remain any sort of hydrated.)
Fact. The less I run, the worse I feel.
Fact. The less I run, the harder it is to run.
Fact. When I run, for those thirty to how-ever-many-minutes, my brain goes on a splendorous free association journey and it's rarely at work. Look! A bluejay!
©Michelle Scofield, August 3, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Saturday Check List
8:50am 3.02miles 34:30 minutes 11:25 pace 82 degrees and steamy.
I woke to the sound of rain against the glass wall of windows protected by my upstairs neighbor's balcony. My loft faces south and in the month since I moved in, I've never seen a drop of rain on my windows. I've been able to stand on my own balcony and enjoy thunderstorms.
I wonder if the Gulf of Mexico is waking up.
After checking out the soaked park across the street, I crawled back into bed and tried to go back to sleep. No luck. Giving up, I read a little and then caught up on some email, blah, blah, blah.
The rain broke and I got in my 3 miles. Friends, it's taking a lot to be out there when it's this freaking humid.
I'm glad I kept my promise to myself. I've been making a few of those lately. They include:
Getting my eyes checked. Done. I was worried that my difficulty in controlling my blood pressure might be causing some damage to the tiny vessels at the back of my eyes. So far, the exam doesn't show that to be the case. Yay! I have a new prescription in hand and I'm going to try to find some new prescription sunglasses today. I like the Oakley wraps an awful lot but I'm not going to spend a car payment. We'll see...
Cook more at home and eat at restaurants less. Done. Houston has some great restaurant choices BUT after driving home in rush hour traffic, all I want to do is relax and enjoy a healthy meal. My kitchen has super appliances and an excellent workspace. I've got so many grocers to choose from. Since moving back I've been to Trader Joes, Central Market, and Fresh Market. On my lunch hour I can run into Krogers for staples.
Spend more time with friends. Done. Soul-filling done.
Schedule one massage a month. Not done yet.
The commute gives me time to think and I guess that's where my latest list of to-do's has been developing. Concrete goals mingle with ethereal ideas. I'm not going out to eat as often, so should I put an extra hundred bucks in my retirement account each month or should I scrap the entire banking concept and put the money under my mattress? I'm working longer hours and driving more. Is a massage a physical need for a runner, a psychological need for an Oncology clinician, or am I just someone who loves a great backrub?
©Michelle Scofield, July 27, 2013 All Rights Reserved
I woke to the sound of rain against the glass wall of windows protected by my upstairs neighbor's balcony. My loft faces south and in the month since I moved in, I've never seen a drop of rain on my windows. I've been able to stand on my own balcony and enjoy thunderstorms.
I wonder if the Gulf of Mexico is waking up.
After checking out the soaked park across the street, I crawled back into bed and tried to go back to sleep. No luck. Giving up, I read a little and then caught up on some email, blah, blah, blah.
The rain broke and I got in my 3 miles. Friends, it's taking a lot to be out there when it's this freaking humid.
I'm glad I kept my promise to myself. I've been making a few of those lately. They include:
Getting my eyes checked. Done. I was worried that my difficulty in controlling my blood pressure might be causing some damage to the tiny vessels at the back of my eyes. So far, the exam doesn't show that to be the case. Yay! I have a new prescription in hand and I'm going to try to find some new prescription sunglasses today. I like the Oakley wraps an awful lot but I'm not going to spend a car payment. We'll see...
Cook more at home and eat at restaurants less. Done. Houston has some great restaurant choices BUT after driving home in rush hour traffic, all I want to do is relax and enjoy a healthy meal. My kitchen has super appliances and an excellent workspace. I've got so many grocers to choose from. Since moving back I've been to Trader Joes, Central Market, and Fresh Market. On my lunch hour I can run into Krogers for staples.
Spend more time with friends. Done. Soul-filling done.
Schedule one massage a month. Not done yet.
The commute gives me time to think and I guess that's where my latest list of to-do's has been developing. Concrete goals mingle with ethereal ideas. I'm not going out to eat as often, so should I put an extra hundred bucks in my retirement account each month or should I scrap the entire banking concept and put the money under my mattress? I'm working longer hours and driving more. Is a massage a physical need for a runner, a psychological need for an Oncology clinician, or am I just someone who loves a great backrub?
©Michelle Scofield, July 27, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Revise
4 miles 46:30 11:38 pace 8:30 am 78 degrees
No music or podcast this morning. Nothing with me on the run but an ID band on one wrist, Garmin on the other, and key in my pocket. The air is heavy enough. I didn't want to carry anything.
I decided to cross over to the Rice University trail today. It's crushed gravel (like Hermann Park). There were many more people than at Hermann and the trail is only about 5 feet wide. It's nicely shaded. There are curb cuts and you have to be careful because there's quite a bit of car traffic going in and out of the university. I'd forgotten how people walk 3 across and don't move over for oncoming walkers or runners. (Can't we all just get along?) Anyway...it's a little crowded and not as pleasant as Hermann Park or Memorial. I was also feeling a little cramping in my calves. In short, I wasn't enjoying myself.
I ran a mile on that path, then turned around and came back to Hermann and back home. I didn't eat breakfast before my run (I rarely do). It's just so freaking humid out there and I'm sipping a 50/50 mix of water and G2 now. I've got to plan my electrolytes or I'll get in trouble. I'll have breakfast and cool off the rest of the morning at home.
More and more I find myself saying, "Yeah, this isn't fun. I'm going home." I hope it's a sign of maturity and not just getting old and grumpy. Either way, it...is.
Happy Saturday. M
©Michelle Scofield, July 20, 2013 All Rights Reserved
No music or podcast this morning. Nothing with me on the run but an ID band on one wrist, Garmin on the other, and key in my pocket. The air is heavy enough. I didn't want to carry anything.
I decided to cross over to the Rice University trail today. It's crushed gravel (like Hermann Park). There were many more people than at Hermann and the trail is only about 5 feet wide. It's nicely shaded. There are curb cuts and you have to be careful because there's quite a bit of car traffic going in and out of the university. I'd forgotten how people walk 3 across and don't move over for oncoming walkers or runners. (Can't we all just get along?) Anyway...it's a little crowded and not as pleasant as Hermann Park or Memorial. I was also feeling a little cramping in my calves. In short, I wasn't enjoying myself.
I ran a mile on that path, then turned around and came back to Hermann and back home. I didn't eat breakfast before my run (I rarely do). It's just so freaking humid out there and I'm sipping a 50/50 mix of water and G2 now. I've got to plan my electrolytes or I'll get in trouble. I'll have breakfast and cool off the rest of the morning at home.
More and more I find myself saying, "Yeah, this isn't fun. I'm going home." I hope it's a sign of maturity and not just getting old and grumpy. Either way, it...is.
Happy Saturday. M
©Michelle Scofield, July 20, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Inspiration
3.2 miles 35.17 11.02 pace 8:30am 85 degrees
I slept in this morning. Yes, for some of us, after 6am is sleeping in. I woke to gray skies, gray mood and a deep desire to stay in bed with Steven King, toast and coffee. I knew it would be hot as hell with humidity to add to the discomfort. My joints are achy in the morning and I’m slow to move those first few steps. If I had a witness, he might call me “Old Woman”. I’m certain he would do so with a sweet smile on his face and would make it up to me later. (I like to daydream.)
I switched on my IPad, checked my email, and then checked Facebook. My son is running a race this morning. After reading his status update, I put on my shoes and I got my butt out the door.
January, 2010 started a roller coaster of emotion for our family. The losses have come fast, hard, and heavy. Through this Chris and I have found running to be a sanctuary of sanity. We’ve both felt our bodies ache but nowhere near the pain that’s hit our hearts.
I hope you had a fantastic run today, son. And I hope you had a lot of fun. You deserve that. I love you.
Mom
©Michelle Scofield, July 14, 2013 All Rights Reserved
I slept in this morning. Yes, for some of us, after 6am is sleeping in. I woke to gray skies, gray mood and a deep desire to stay in bed with Steven King, toast and coffee. I knew it would be hot as hell with humidity to add to the discomfort. My joints are achy in the morning and I’m slow to move those first few steps. If I had a witness, he might call me “Old Woman”. I’m certain he would do so with a sweet smile on his face and would make it up to me later. (I like to daydream.)
I switched on my IPad, checked my email, and then checked Facebook. My son is running a race this morning. After reading his status update, I put on my shoes and I got my butt out the door.
January, 2010 started a roller coaster of emotion for our family. The losses have come fast, hard, and heavy. Through this Chris and I have found running to be a sanctuary of sanity. We’ve both felt our bodies ache but nowhere near the pain that’s hit our hearts.
I hope you had a fantastic run today, son. And I hope you had a lot of fun. You deserve that. I love you.
Mom
©Michelle Scofield, July 14, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Like Rain
8:30am 81 degrees 3.02 miles 35:36 11:48 pace
Back to Hermann Park this morning. To say I'm happy with this move is such an understatement but I'll say it again. I'm happy.
Last night I met up with friends for a free concert at Miller Outdoor Theatre. We sat on our blankets and enjoyed the music of the band War. (A little research tells me that there have been a few disputes about who is War and what constitutes a band when the original members aren't still playing, etc, etc...) Anyway...they still sounded like the War I remember as a kid. And I mean as a kid, like 12.
Above all else, I am a fan of funk.
Laying on that blanket last night, the haze and smog of the city blocking out all but the most stubborn of stars, I was taken back to Riverside Park in Wichita, Kansas. I can remember seeing big gatherings taking place. Some families seemed to have all the fun. There were lots of kids running around, several picnic tables pulled together, and music. LOUD music. It was like a magnet. And I was always physically pulled in a wide arc away from those gatherings. Big crowds at Riverside Park in the late 60's could turn dangerous very quickly. At least that was what I was told. But that music...
And the bowling alley. Crestview Lanes had a grill that wasn't a restaurant, it was a bar. My mom was assistant manager at Crestview. She was also a single mom. Where do you think I spent many Friday and Saturday nights? The music floated out of the grill onto the lanes and I practiced more than one dance move with other kids who had parents who seemed to live at the bowling alley.
My earliest 8-track and vinyl collection wasn't sophistocated enough to rebel in the direction I would eventually land. I had a lot of Elton John and Jim Croce. That's what a straight-A, responsible white girl did. She bought what her friends bought. Then I moved across town and...
...I had a completely irresponsible neighbor named Walter. He was a year older than me and he, in turn, had an even wilder, older sister. Neither went to school on a regular basis. Both spent hour upon hour in their basement in a haze of smoke and music. And I loved hanging out at their house. My perception was that their parents had given up any hopes of them graduating and were simply trying to keep them from getting arrested. As long as they were home and not on the streets, anything was okay. These two had all the food, drink, air conditioning, and music they wanted during summers off. Their house was full of long-haired, pot-smoking, peace-loving deadbeats. Peripherally, I was a fascinated hanger-on and they allowed it.
Jimi Hendrix, War, Deep Purple, David Bowie, Rufus, James Brown.
Hours of the stuff.
Last night, thousands of people sat on a hill and the funk fell on us like rain we'd been thirsting for. And we grooved together.
"The World is a Ghetto"
"Cisco Kid"
"Low Rider"
"Why Can't We Be Friends?"
Indeed.
©Michelle Scofield, July 7, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Back to Hermann Park this morning. To say I'm happy with this move is such an understatement but I'll say it again. I'm happy.
Last night I met up with friends for a free concert at Miller Outdoor Theatre. We sat on our blankets and enjoyed the music of the band War. (A little research tells me that there have been a few disputes about who is War and what constitutes a band when the original members aren't still playing, etc, etc...) Anyway...they still sounded like the War I remember as a kid. And I mean as a kid, like 12.
Above all else, I am a fan of funk.
Laying on that blanket last night, the haze and smog of the city blocking out all but the most stubborn of stars, I was taken back to Riverside Park in Wichita, Kansas. I can remember seeing big gatherings taking place. Some families seemed to have all the fun. There were lots of kids running around, several picnic tables pulled together, and music. LOUD music. It was like a magnet. And I was always physically pulled in a wide arc away from those gatherings. Big crowds at Riverside Park in the late 60's could turn dangerous very quickly. At least that was what I was told. But that music...
And the bowling alley. Crestview Lanes had a grill that wasn't a restaurant, it was a bar. My mom was assistant manager at Crestview. She was also a single mom. Where do you think I spent many Friday and Saturday nights? The music floated out of the grill onto the lanes and I practiced more than one dance move with other kids who had parents who seemed to live at the bowling alley.
My earliest 8-track and vinyl collection wasn't sophistocated enough to rebel in the direction I would eventually land. I had a lot of Elton John and Jim Croce. That's what a straight-A, responsible white girl did. She bought what her friends bought. Then I moved across town and...
...I had a completely irresponsible neighbor named Walter. He was a year older than me and he, in turn, had an even wilder, older sister. Neither went to school on a regular basis. Both spent hour upon hour in their basement in a haze of smoke and music. And I loved hanging out at their house. My perception was that their parents had given up any hopes of them graduating and were simply trying to keep them from getting arrested. As long as they were home and not on the streets, anything was okay. These two had all the food, drink, air conditioning, and music they wanted during summers off. Their house was full of long-haired, pot-smoking, peace-loving deadbeats. Peripherally, I was a fascinated hanger-on and they allowed it.
Jimi Hendrix, War, Deep Purple, David Bowie, Rufus, James Brown.
Hours of the stuff.
Last night, thousands of people sat on a hill and the funk fell on us like rain we'd been thirsting for. And we grooved together.
"The World is a Ghetto"
"Cisco Kid"
"Low Rider"
"Why Can't We Be Friends?"
Indeed.
©Michelle Scofield, July 7, 2013 All Rights Reserved
Saturday, July 6, 2013
The Park
7:45am 82 degrees 3.27 miles 38:25 11:45 pace
No physical pain with my run this morning.
Much to see along the way.
The tiny train wasn't running yet. The zoo isn't open until later this morning. 4 lady geese stood next to the tracks. They seemed to be waiting for a ride.
Just past the fountains, an ancient man in white pants and belted robe silently practiced tai chi sending two massive red fans through swirls and sworls as a chiseled young man sat on a stone bench near him. His head was bowed in what...meditation? anguish? sleep? prayer?
The Park People were rising from their nests. I'm starting to recognize some of them.
I wonder if any of them can achieve real rest out there. In the open. In this heat.
©Michelle Scofield, July 6, 2013 All Rights Reserved
No physical pain with my run this morning.
Much to see along the way.
The tiny train wasn't running yet. The zoo isn't open until later this morning. 4 lady geese stood next to the tracks. They seemed to be waiting for a ride.
Just past the fountains, an ancient man in white pants and belted robe silently practiced tai chi sending two massive red fans through swirls and sworls as a chiseled young man sat on a stone bench near him. His head was bowed in what...meditation? anguish? sleep? prayer?
The Park People were rising from their nests. I'm starting to recognize some of them.
I wonder if any of them can achieve real rest out there. In the open. In this heat.
©Michelle Scofield, July 6, 2013 All Rights Reserved
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