Yep, I'm still alive and writing!
You can find me here: http://vagabondv.blogspot.com
See you there!!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Still posting.
Yep, I'm still alive and writing!
You can find me here: http://vagabondv.blogspot.com
See you there!!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Letter to the Rector
30 April 2009
Dear Revd Dr Keith G Jones,
I'm delighted to inform you that a (nearly) grand total of 29,246 CZK (1540 USD, 981 GBP, 1095 EUR) has been donated as a birthday gift to IBTS in celebration of its 60
years!
These gifts have come from people around the world (note sidebar) who see the importance of such a unique seminary!
You will notice that previously I had hoped to reach the 1500 USD mark, and though I'm sure many were skeptical it has been done. Yippee!
Thank you for your hard work and commitment to IBTS and your support during these months of training for the Jubilee Jog!
Happy Birthday!
- from one very happy Jubilee Jogger
ps - There is still a promised 50 more British pounds and 100 more US dollars on the way. Plus still a few folk who need gentle prodding (!) to open their wallets and produce a bit of promised change.
I'm delighted to inform you that a (nearly) grand total of 29,246 CZK (1540 USD, 981 GBP, 1095 EUR) has been donated as a birthday gift to IBTS in celebration of its 60
years!These gifts have come from people around the world (note sidebar) who see the importance of such a unique seminary!
You will notice that previously I had hoped to reach the 1500 USD mark, and though I'm sure many were skeptical it has been done. Yippee!
Thank you for your hard work and commitment to IBTS and your support during these months of training for the Jubilee Jog!
Happy Birthday!
- from one very happy Jubilee Jogger
ps - There is still a promised 50 more British pounds and 100 more US dollars on the way. Plus still a few folk who need gentle prodding (!) to open their wallets and produce a bit of promised change.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Not the Last of Me!
It has been a month and one day, since crossing the finish line in the most beautiful city of the world. And I've got the running itch again! No, I don't need cream, I just need to get out and run!
Ashamedly, only once have I booted up and found myself whizzing through the Sarka valley trails. However, Sunday seeing bits of the London marathon on Eurosport made me think if these popular actors/actresses, singers and human-sized chickens can run 42 kilometres surely I can!
Right?
So, it's in my mind... but first, there's a women's 5K in September here in Prague - much more reasonable as it's something I know I can do AND I still get all kinds of free stuff!
I better get running!
You haven't seen the backside of me for good yet!
Ashamedly, only once have I booted up and found myself whizzing through the Sarka valley trails. However, Sunday seeing bits of the London marathon on Eurosport made me think if these popular actors/actresses, singers and human-sized chickens can run 42 kilometres surely I can!Right?
So, it's in my mind... but first, there's a women's 5K in September here in Prague - much more reasonable as it's something I know I can do AND I still get all kinds of free stuff!
I better get running!
You haven't seen the backside of me for good yet!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Skeptics revealed! (or sceptics)
The race is over and the donations are coming! When Lenka, our IBTS accountant, enters my office a smile spreads across my face. In her hands she is often carrying a receipt from a Jubilee Jog supporter from the money they have donated to IBTS.
Recently sums of Czech crowns have been given by some sceptic observers, who were clearly steeled against donating until all six feet from the IBTS runners crossed the finish line! Thankfully they did!
I'm delighted to report that thus far the total amount which has come in is 17,810 CZK (859 USD, 601 GBP, 647 EUR) ! I have every confidence that we will reach 1000 USD, but I'd love to report to my Rector that 1500 USD came in to help our seminary! Even if your name's not on the right margin of sponsors... it can be! Every little bit helps!
Recently sums of Czech crowns have been given by some sceptic observers, who were clearly steeled against donating until all six feet from the IBTS runners crossed the finish line! Thankfully they did!I'm delighted to report that thus far the total amount which has come in is 17,810 CZK (859 USD, 601 GBP, 647 EUR) ! I have every confidence that we will reach 1000 USD, but I'd love to report to my Rector that 1500 USD came in to help our seminary! Even if your name's not on the right margin of sponsors... it can be! Every little bit helps!
Monday, March 30, 2009
A few photos!
Anna and I - running partners for most of the race. It was great to have company!
Hmm... never saw these guys for some reason! Perhaps because they finished at least an hour before me...
Tim, who ran on ahead of us. He was key in helping me train during the past months.
And still smiling at the end!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Upon completion - Part I
Completing this half-marathon was one of the most amazing feelings of accomplishment I've ever experienced, particularly remembering back to September and the many occasions since then when I doubted my ability to run 21.0975 kilometres - and in fact had no ability to do so!
An even stronger emotion comes from the fact that I ran for IBTS, a place that I love. There's an undefinable feeling which tickles my tear ducts when thinking that the training and tiredness brought in some help for students to study theology at an amazing seminary.
Not to worry, the grand total will soon be posted! You still have the opportunity to add your bit!!
Certainly, there were times during the run which I wouldn't have minded being a spectator, but never once did I think to quit nor regret the six-month-old commitment to run. And happily, I was able to run the complete race and even finish with some leftover energy.
An even stronger emotion comes from the fact that I ran for IBTS, a place that I love. There's an undefinable feeling which tickles my tear ducts when thinking that the training and tiredness brought in some help for students to study theology at an amazing seminary.
Not to worry, the grand total will soon be posted! You still have the opportunity to add your bit!!
Certainly, there were times during the run which I wouldn't have minded being a spectator, but never once did I think to quit nor regret the six-month-old commitment to run. And happily, I was able to run the complete race and even finish with some leftover energy.
This is a sample of the medal which I received upon completion. Upon crossing the line each finisher was congratulated, a medal put around their neck and a blanket of tin foil wrapped around their shoulders. No star-spangled banner though...Authentic photos with this marathoner with her medal are still trapped on friends' cameras, but will appear here as soon as possible.
And don't worry, I've much more to say - so more posts are to come! Particularly about the thoughts along the run and the fans who showed up (some a few times!) to cheer us on.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Today's Outlook
I've been informed that over 7,000 people are running in the Prague Half-Marathon! By the time I cross the start line, some will be running through the finish-line ribbon! 7,000 - I can't imagine, truly can't! I said I wasn't bothered about the weather. I lied - below is the day's weather forecast. | |||||
| Local Time | Weather | Temp °C | R. Hum % | Wind km/h | |
| 10:00 |  | Light rain | 7 oC | 89% | SE at 6 km/h (2 Bf) |
| 13:00 | | Light rain | 14 oC | 65% | SSW at 12 km/h (3 Bf) |
| 16:00 | | Light rain | 13 oC | 76% | WSW at 16 km/h (3 Bf) |
| 19:00 | | Light rain | 9 oC | 89% | WSW at 14 km/h (3 Bf) |
Friday, March 27, 2009
27 hours
I know I wasn't supposed to, but I simply was itching to get out for a short run yesterday. The weather was coolish, but the valley was fresh. Plus I'm not sure the next time I'll run through the valley again. After tomorrow, I may never run again! (An added bonus of having run through the valley was having 'good luck' wishes from a complete stranger for the half-marathon. He wasn't Czech.)
I've decided I won't get caught up on the weather - Saturday, 28 March will come and I will run regardless of what is dropping, shining or blowing on me from up above.
Today, Tim, Anna and I are off to the city this afternoon to collect our start bags and receive instructions about THE day. This will be followed by a Pasta-Party and 8hour sleep...
But first a day of work and caution about where I step - I haven't wore any type of heel on my shoes for a week.
I've decided I won't get caught up on the weather - Saturday, 28 March will come and I will run regardless of what is dropping, shining or blowing on me from up above.
Today, Tim, Anna and I are off to the city this afternoon to collect our start bags and receive instructions about THE day. This will be followed by a Pasta-Party and 8hour sleep...
But first a day of work and caution about where I step - I haven't wore any type of heel on my shoes for a week.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Saturday day weather
- Light Rain
- Max: 13°C
- Sunrise: 05:45
I kept searching until I found a better forecast - not that it will change the actual weather, but at least my mind going into it!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Precipitation
The last few mornings I've woken to a blanket of white outside my window.
Do they postpone half-marathons on account of snow?
My favourite Prague weather forecast website - the one which previously said 14C and partly cloudy - now has become 9C and rain. Unfortunately, that is the best I can find.
Not a happy half-marathon- runner-to-be.
Do they postpone half-marathons on account of snow?
My favourite Prague weather forecast website - the one which previously said 14C and partly cloudy - now has become 9C and rain. Unfortunately, that is the best I can find.
Not a happy half-marathon- runner-to-be.
| Forecast for Saturday 28-03-2009 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Monday, March 23, 2009
Weather and Whether
My little fitness room up in Nebusice hasn't seen me for a while. Today because of its close proximity to IBTS, this was my gym choice for the day. And sadly, the promise of spring has disappeared from Prague as rain and wind and cold descend upon us once again - thus keeping me indoors.
I check the weather forecasts for this Saturday at least once every two hours and of course, each website prophesies something different. My favourite says it should be partly cloudy and 14C. I ignore the one which says 8C and rain.
Nonetheless, I packed my gym bag and caught the bus to make the short trek up the road. Upon entering, I wondered if it was even open - the door was shut and lights off. Nah, they were open, just saving on heating by keeping the door closed and on electricity by having the lights off - or the guy working was simply hoping for an early night.
It was a good run at a quick speed which kept me from being too bored. I flipped mindlessly through pages in a magazine, but the one I chose had more words than pictures, so I lost interest quickly. Have you ever tried reading whist running - impossible.
It was a happy 10k run, but now am concerned about my shoes. Faithful readers will recall that I purchased a new pair of New Balance running shoes a while back. I've been using them sporadically and am rather happy with them, though I still primarily use my old Nike's. I haven't run more than about 12k with my New Balance, but they seem fine. My old Nike's are well, old. They are rather worn down and I always wonder if the aches and pains that I feel may be a result of these shoes and what will happen on Saturday if I wear them...
You can't imagine how many more questions are running through my mind about Saturday - what to wear, what to eat, what to drink, how much to sleep... oh dear.
I check the weather forecasts for this Saturday at least once every two hours and of course, each website prophesies something different. My favourite says it should be partly cloudy and 14C. I ignore the one which says 8C and rain.
Nonetheless, I packed my gym bag and caught the bus to make the short trek up the road. Upon entering, I wondered if it was even open - the door was shut and lights off. Nah, they were open, just saving on heating by keeping the door closed and on electricity by having the lights off - or the guy working was simply hoping for an early night.
It was a good run at a quick speed which kept me from being too bored. I flipped mindlessly through pages in a magazine, but the one I chose had more words than pictures, so I lost interest quickly. Have you ever tried reading whist running - impossible.
It was a happy 10k run, but now am concerned about my shoes. Faithful readers will recall that I purchased a new pair of New Balance running shoes a while back. I've been using them sporadically and am rather happy with them, though I still primarily use my old Nike's. I haven't run more than about 12k with my New Balance, but they seem fine. My old Nike's are well, old. They are rather worn down and I always wonder if the aches and pains that I feel may be a result of these shoes and what will happen on Saturday if I wear them...
You can't imagine how many more questions are running through my mind about Saturday - what to wear, what to eat, what to drink, how much to sleep... oh dear.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
The Countdown.
- 1 week
- 7 days
- 168 hours
- 10080 minutes
- 604800 seconds
However you count it down, it's coming!!!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Prague puddles
I returned from a recent outdoor run with calves splotched with Prague mud. A short visit by the sun allowed for me to leave the stuffy air of the gym, but clearly the visit was too short as the trail was still quite unavoidably soggy in sections.
However, after the first few puddles and splatterings, I didn't mind too much and honestly enjoyed it; each splotch giving evidence of my dedication to the cause!
Nope, these are not my legs - but it gives you a good idea!
However, after the first few puddles and splatterings, I didn't mind too much and honestly enjoyed it; each splotch giving evidence of my dedication to the cause!
I guess running shoes don't have the option of mudflaps as heel attachments.
Nope, these are not my legs - but it gives you a good idea! Monday, March 16, 2009
Problems with Paul
1 Cor 9.24"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize?"
Yes...
"So run that ye may obtain."
Ugh, Uncle Paul, I'm hoping to finish it!
Thanks, anyway though.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Where is my Joseph?
Yep, that's right it's come to the point that I've started to dream about this forthcoming Half-Marathon!
Dream or nightmare, I'm not sure.
I got to the beginning of the race and forgot something (don't remember what, I'm afraid) in my apartment, so ran all the way home (Michigan in this instance) to retrieve it. Upon getting home, I was worried since the race had already begun and needed to run all the way back to the beginning. Instead I cleverly decided to take the Prague metro to get me to the Rudolfinum start quicker. Thanks to my mom who was with the me entire time.
Ok, Joseph - do your stuff - what's it mean!?
Dream or nightmare, I'm not sure.
I got to the beginning of the race and forgot something (don't remember what, I'm afraid) in my apartment, so ran all the way home (Michigan in this instance) to retrieve it. Upon getting home, I was worried since the race had already begun and needed to run all the way back to the beginning. Instead I cleverly decided to take the Prague metro to get me to the Rudolfinum start quicker. Thanks to my mom who was with the me entire time.
Ok, Joseph - do your stuff - what's it mean!?Saturday, February 28, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Just My Luck
As determined, I've pushed myself to run the last few days and because the temperature was above freezing I decided to finally get outdoors again.
Monday it rained. Socks and shoes and me - soaked
Tuesday it snowed. Hands and nose and toes - frozen.
Today, Wednesday is my day off and of course - full bright sun out.
In Monday's soggy jog I was pleased to see one of our Prague 6 deer out chomping away at some of the grass which has appeared with the melting snow.
Spring is on its way!!
Monday it rained. Socks and shoes and me - soaked
Tuesday it snowed. Hands and nose and toes - frozen.
Today, Wednesday is my day off and of course - full bright sun out.
In Monday's soggy jog I was pleased to see one of our Prague 6 deer out chomping away at some of the grass which has appeared with the melting snow.
Spring is on its way!!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
My Greatest Weakness Revealed
I guess it's pretty clear what I should give up for Lent.
I visited a friend in Prague this afternoon with every intention of heading to the gym afterward.
However, the smell of grilling sausages which is the trademark of Wenceslas Square lured me to ordering and devouring a Staročeská klobasa, which in turn kept me from running for obvious reasons.
Doesn't it look tempting to you? Surely you understand now that I simply had to yield to this temptation.
I visited a friend in Prague this afternoon with every intention of heading to the gym afterward.
However, the smell of grilling sausages which is the trademark of Wenceslas Square lured me to ordering and devouring a Staročeská klobasa, which in turn kept me from running for obvious reasons.
Doesn't it look tempting to you? Surely you understand now that I simply had to yield to this temptation.
Almost a good plan
At this exact time this morning (08.53), I was planning to be hopping on a tram to make it back from the gym to begin my Sunday morning rituals - Aled Jones and Good morning Sunday on BBC radio 2, feeding and discussing dreams with my roommates, clean up whatever leftover mess came from Saturday and begin the necessary pre-church ablutions.BUT
My alarm seemed to go off too early. My bed was too comfortable. I was conscientious of awaking my roommates whilst getting dressed and getting out the door.
ACTUALLY
I like my quiet mornings at home.
However, don't despair, dear Jubilee Jog Readers and supporters, there is yet another slot in the day in which the tram will whisk me away to the smelly room of running.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Follow the yellow brick road
At any bookstore you can find a wide selection of Prague maps. Maps for biking, maps for walking tours or pub visits and of course, your basic driving map. But I bet you haven't seen one like this before!
Yep, this is the route set for the little jog which is soon approaching. I'm plotting the points where I should have an ambulance team ready for me.
IBTS Jubilee Jog thru Prague runners are:
- Anna Cheprasova - MTh student in Applied Theology - Russia
- Yours truly - USA
- Tim Noble - Course Leader in Contextual Missiology - UK
Yep, this is the route set for the little jog which is soon approaching. I'm plotting the points where I should have an ambulance team ready for me.IBTS Jubilee Jog thru Prague runners are:
- Anna Cheprasova - MTh student in Applied Theology - Russia
- Yours truly - USA
- Tim Noble - Course Leader in Contextual Missiology - UK
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Memories
Following the previous post and recalling my longstanding love for beef jerky, I've located photos taken almost two years ago of myself with my beloved snack shipped from Michigan. So for you, my dear readers, I've posted the photo below!
Thanks, mom!Back in the Sneakers again...
Oh dear... I don't dare admit how longs it's been since I've last put my running shoes on my feet. So I won't! Believe me, it's been longer than it should have been. I have all kinds of very very good excuses, really!
Nonetheless, the big day is soon approaching and I'm becoming less convinced that this was a good idea and even less that I'll be able to manage 21.097Km (13.1m).
Out of guilt, shame and determination I'm hereby setting up a strict regime that smelly men, snowflakes and sore muscles will not keep me from. I'm studying up on diet plans (lots of protein), sleeping patterns (do more), and training methods (run alot) in order to be able to cross the finish line on two feet (mine, preferably) on 28 March 2009. Which if you are slightly good at math means, 38 days... oh dear.
A shopping trip for lots of tuna& pasta and a recent care-package from my lovely mother including yummy protein-packed beef jerky will keep my energy up. Plus much encouragement and many kicks from my friends and colleagues to get me off my dupa surely help!
38 days...
Nonetheless, the big day is soon approaching and I'm becoming less convinced that this was a good idea and even less that I'll be able to manage 21.097Km (13.1m).
Out of guilt, shame and determination I'm hereby setting up a strict regime that smelly men, snowflakes and sore muscles will not keep me from. I'm studying up on diet plans (lots of protein), sleeping patterns (do more), and training methods (run alot) in order to be able to cross the finish line on two feet (mine, preferably) on 28 March 2009. Which if you are slightly good at math means, 38 days... oh dear.
A shopping trip for lots of tuna& pasta and a recent care-package from my lovely mother including yummy protein-packed beef jerky will keep my energy up. Plus much encouragement and many kicks from my friends and colleagues to get me off my dupa surely help!
38 days...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
"Tula, Eat Something!"
This has been the advice and rebuke of friends and colleagues as I continue my attempt in this 21km run. These last weeks I came to place where my body wasn't any more sore or in pain than normal, but I simply had no energy and could push myself no longer and was stuck between 10 - 12km - depressingly I thought that was the end of my half-marathon hopes."EAT protein!"
Tuna, peanuts, beans, eggs, red meat... mmmm, and certainly my beloved sausages. Thus I zealously began my over-eating adventure. Maybe 'over-eating' is a bit strong, maybe 'excess' or even 'sufficient eating' is more appropriate. Nonetheless, homemade tuna melts on Friday and a juicy steak on Saturday was a good start to a few days of lots of food (compared to my normal eating regime). And I can't complain - I like good food.
It works!
I completely surprised myself today, when at the gym I ran 16 kilometres - which means yes, only five more to the goal! With a little more than 2 months of training to go, if I keep at it (eating & running) I'm sure to be able to make it! Barring injury and illness. I can't stop smiling.
Ooof, but regardless how much tuna I have eaten, I'm sure to have sore muscles tomorrow.
Tuna, peanuts, beans, eggs, red meat... mmmm, and certainly my beloved sausages. Thus I zealously began my over-eating adventure. Maybe 'over-eating' is a bit strong, maybe 'excess' or even 'sufficient eating' is more appropriate. Nonetheless, homemade tuna melts on Friday and a juicy steak on Saturday was a good start to a few days of lots of food (compared to my normal eating regime). And I can't complain - I like good food.
It works!
I completely surprised myself today, when at the gym I ran 16 kilometres - which means yes, only five more to the goal! With a little more than 2 months of training to go, if I keep at it (eating & running) I'm sure to be able to make it! Barring injury and illness. I can't stop smiling.
Ooof, but regardless how much tuna I have eaten, I'm sure to have sore muscles tomorrow.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Day 2 of New Shoe Trial
(plus couldn't stop from myself from giggling when the guy next to me fell (safely) from his treadmill whilst trying to sip water from his water bottle)Friday, January 2, 2009
The Curse of Big Foot
Clearly Czech women with large feet do not run.
Being frightened by a friend who runs regularly, I decided I should invest in a second pair of running shoes. The wearing down of the soles of old shoes brings knee troubles, hip pain and more, so having a second pair is smart.
Pretending to be knowledgeable whilst perusing the shoe display at a Prague sports store, I chose two shoe types which seemed best. Upon telling the shop attendant my size, she looked at me quizzically and said I should probably get a man's shoe. Hmm. As this was not an option for various reasons - one, that I do not have man's feet - I asked her which shoes they did have for such gigantic feet as mine.
She
produced a New Balance women's running shoe, which seemed alright. Though treading around the store for 2 minutes is much different than running the streets of Prague for 3 hours, so how was I to know.Thankfully, the store allows a 30 day return&exchange policy. Day one of New Shoe Trial seemed to be fine...
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