Running and Praying

2021-06-20T10:37:00.001-05:00

A Letter to My Dad

June 20, 2021

Dear Dad,

It’s been a while since we last spoke. I’m sure you’re having a grand time up there in heaven. Just wanted to let you know that I miss talking to you . You always had a way of supporting and lifting me up every time we spoke.

I want to thank you for everything you did as a dad for me. I know you weren’t perfect and made mistakes but you were a great dad and husband. I want you to know that watching you love us and love mom impacted me in the way I love my sons and Ginger. The things you taught me were so important and are things I try to do today as father and husband.

First, you taught me to work hard, because nothing is free in this world. You taught be that what you put into it, you get back.

Second, you taught me to treat people with love and respect. “Treat people the way you want to be treated.”

Third, live everyday to its fullest, like it’s the last day on this earth. Take a moment to look up and around at the beauty of this world.

Last but by far the most important, you taught me how to love and laugh.

You would be so happy to your family today. Your grandsons are developing into young successful men. Our house is filled with love and laughter. Sure we have difficulties, but love holds it all together.

You taught me what it takes to be husband and a father. You were my dad but you were also my best friend.

Thank you Dad. I love you and one day we’ll see each other again.

Love,

Your son Rich

2021-04-04T14:06:00.000-05:00

A Special Day

April 4, 2021

Today is Easter Sunday. This is a special day for me because of its significance. I can’t help but think about how my life changed over 12 years ago.

I was a Christian because I had accepted Him into my life at the age of 17. But just like a sheep, I strayed away from Him. I put myself first. The only time I thought of Him was when I needed a miracle.

Here’s the thing, He NEVER left me! He is my Shepherd. He watches over me! He feeds me! He takes care of me and he pursues me with his everlasting love all the time.

In January 2009, I returned back to God. At the time, I knew it was the only way I would survive. I was without a job and a emotional mess. I knew things had to change. When I think back now, I knew at the time it was God’s plan because he knew right at that moment it was what I needed.

Easter Sunday 2009 was an awaking for me. I remember going to the service that day not sure what to expect. I remember tears filling my eyes as I heard the message about how much God loves us, so much that he gave his one and only Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins, so I could be forgiven for my sins and have everlasting life.

That year changed everything. Not only for me, but for my family. I decided I needed to be the spiritual leader of the house. Ginger and I decided we had to teach and show our boys how to live their lives based on what God wants us to do. When I look back on it, it was the best thing we ever did. Coming back to Jesus saved my life, saved my marriage and saved my family!

Today is no different than 12 years ago. I am at peace. Why? Because when you know who you are, where you have come from and where your going, you no longer need to impress others.

I am at the point in my life where I no longer feel like I need to impress others, all I need to do is love God and love others like I love him. I want to love others, I want people to see and understand how much God loves us. Everyday I give thanks for everything he has done in my life.

When I think about it, what God did for us is so amazing. Think about it, he sent his one and only Son to die for our sins. If you have children is that something you could do? I know couldn’t especially knowing how much pain Jesus went through on the cross.

1 John 4:6 says it perfectly. “God is love. Those who live in love, live in God and God lives in them.”

God knows everything about us! He knows our whole life, there is no escaping us. He created us so he could love us. He is our light! He is relentless! He will always pursue you with his love, always!

Yes, this day is a special day not only for me but for all of the world. On this day 2000 years ago, God gave us hope, he gave us a reason to live.

I’ll leave you with this because of what Jesus said in John 11:25-26, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will have life even if I die. And everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”

So I am a believer in Jesus Christ. He is my Savior and I love him with all of my heart.

Friends, I’m there for you if you ever want to talk about Jesus. I’ll sit there and listen and offer you words of encouragement.

From my family to yours, Happy Easter because HE HAS RISEN!

The Good Wife

2021-03-27T12:57:00.001-05:00

The Good Wife

A good friend once told me, “when you’re not looking for love, love will find you.”

I’ll never forget the first time I saw my wife Ginger. It wasn’t from across the room, no, it was in a picture book. Gin and I met through a dating service. When I saw her picture and biography, I knew I had to meet her.

I had been dating for a few years and was beginning to wonder if I would ever meet someone. Our first meeting almost didn’t happen as I was 10 minutes late to our first date. She told me if I would have been any later, she would have left.

We met at Chuy’s on Westheimer. Almost instantly we hit it off. We stayed out that night till 2 AM in the morning talking. It was the best date I had ever had in my life.

We dated for two years and then on March 27, 1999 we got married. I remember seeing her at the end of the aisle in her wedding dress, I choked up because she was so beautiful, she looked like an angel that had come from heaven to save me. I had finally found the woman of my dreams.

Over the years we have had lots of ups and downs. My career has been interesting. Every time something went wrong, she was always there right by my side supporting me, encouraging me and most importantly loving me unconditionally.

I am a pretty goofy person. I’m definitely different. Up until I had met her, I never let anyone see who I truly was. That all changed with her. She accepted me for who I am. Laughter has always been a big part of our relationship and our family. We have so much joy and happiness and it all started with her because she welcomed me into her life.

There was a stretch of time when I was traveling a lot. I was on the road every week. She was at home taking care of our two young sons. She never complained, she just moved forward continuing to love me. She would hear stories from the other wives at the company I worked for where they complained about how their husbands were out drinking and partying and socializing with women. Still she trusted me and continued to love me.

She is my best friend and my soulmate. A few years ago I was frustrated about my job. I had a really good year and expected to get an above average annual review, but I didn’t get it (now I understand why). That night she told me something I will never forget.

“You are the best man I have ever known and I love you.” It still brings tears to my eyes when I think of that night. It drives me to be the kind of husband and man she needs in her life.

Last summer, Gin and the boys got Covid and at one point there was a fear she would have to go to the hospital. I didn’t sleep a wink because I was so afraid, I would lose her. I can’t fathom the thought of what I would do if I lost her.

She is my rock! We always tell each other “you’re stuck with me.”

Everyday I thank God for bringing her into my life. I am living the dream. We’re growing old together and its awesome!

Proverbs 31 talks about the Good Wife and how she does him good and not harm, how she gets up early to prepare meals for the family. How she is strong and respected by the community and looks to the future with joy. Most importantly it talks about how she loves and respects the Lord. Gin does all of these things and more!

She is the Best Woman I know.

Thank you, Gin, for making my dreams come true. Thank you for giving me two awesome sons and most importantly, thank you for loving me for who I am. You have shaped me into the man I am today and I will love and cherish you until the day I die.

Happy 22^nd wedding anniversary darling!

Memories of Fatherhood

2021-02-28T14:25:00.000-06:00

This week was a particularly difficult week for me as it was nine years ago that my father passed away. What inspired me to write this was an episode on the NBC Series “This is Us.” In the episode, two of the main characters had new babies come into their lives. It went through the first couple of days of the new children’s lives and what pressures the parents were going through. It brought back a lot of special memories to me.

I’ll never forget the moment I realized I was going to be a father. It wasn’t when my wife Ginger told me she was pregnant, No, it was when she was in labor which by the way lasted almost 27 hours.

The birth of our first son Davis was a long and intense affair. On the afternoon leading up to his birth Ginger was trying to have him, but he just wouldn’t come out. It was so intense as she tried like heck to have him. Finally at 6 PM that night the doctor called it and decided it was time for C-Section. Seeing Davis Lee come into this world was the most beautiful and miraculous moment I had ever experienced. And seeing Ginger hold him for the first time took my breath away.

I was able to spend a few minutes with Davis before he was taken away to the nursery. At the time he was crying but when I started speaking with him, the crying stopped. My first duty as a father was completed.

The next couple of months are a complete blur to me. There were a lot of nights where we didn’t sleep much. One thing was for certain, I loved Davis more than anything in this world and I wanted to do everything in my power to take care of him.

A few years later when it came time for my second son Drew’s birth, I told Ginger I was scared to death. She looked at me and asked why, I told her I was afraid that I wouldn’t love him as much.

Boy was I wrong! I love both of them the same. They are two completely different personalities. They each have their own qualities and faults. To this day there is nothing more in this world then my love for them.

The birth of our second son Drew, was a far different story. The doctor told us to show up at 6 in the morning and two hours later he was born. He was a very good baby, always sleeping through the night. He fussed very little. To this day he is my little angel. (At 17 he is no longer little). God put this spirit in him that is incredibly kind and loving. In a lot of ways he is a lot like me when I was his age.

As a father, I have learned what unconditional love truly is. Its not caring what anyone thinks. Its that feeling deep down inside your heart that you would do ANYTHING for that person, no matter what they did. Its that unconditional acceptance of that person for who they are.

Having unconditional love for my boys led me very shortly to the same feeling for my wife Ginger. She is the greatest person I have ever known. Over the years watching her with my boys has led me to believe that she is the most beautiful woman I have ever known. To this day when she walks into the room she takes my breath away. I am so lucky to be her husband and I thank God everyday for that privilege.

As the boys have grown older, Gin and I sometimes feel like we are looking in the mirror. We see pieces of ourselves in them.

Over time, I’ve tried to teach them about life and how they should live it.

First, love everyone and love God with all your heart.

Second live everyday like its your last on this earth.

Finally, treat everyone you meet the way you want to be treated.

This week was tough because it was the nine year anniversary of my dads passing. I miss him every day. When I think of him, I choke up. I still can’t believe he’s gone. When I look back, his impact on my life was enormous. Just as I see a piece of me in my sons, I see parts of my dad in me.

When my sons are complaining about something, I won’t let them do, all I do is smile, look at them and say, “one day you’ll understand.”

That’s not the answer they are usually looking for and I pray to God that one day they’ll say, “yep, dad you were right.”

And then the circle of fatherhood will continue.

Grace and Love

2021-02-14T13:22:00.001-06:00

Grace and Love

“Greater love to no one than this; to lay down ones life for friends.” John 15:13

This is a great verse one that is a pretty big deal. What it really boils down to is how do we view others and how we treat them.

Do you look at your spouse and your immediate family as a pain in the ass? Or do you view them with love and companionship?

What about the person at the grocery store who is rude and pushy? Do you see them as selfish and inconsiderate or as a person who may be having a bad day or maybe even a bad year (trust me there are quite a few people out there who fall into this category).

Jesus gave his life for us so that we may be forgiven for our sins and have everlasting life, shouldn’t we offer the same kind of grace to others?

I am very fortunate to have many things, a loving wife, two awesome sons and many friends. But still at times I wrestle with the selfish demons. In today’s world, hell in our country, there is so much hate and mistrust. There are too many hypocrites.

The religious right even though they preach Christianity which includes everything around love and grace, also turn around preach hate and lies about the liberal left.

The same goes for the liberal left. The want equality and the right to freedom but then they turn around and talk about hate and blame on anyone who doesn’t’ follow them.

I hate this! And I’m sick of it! Enough is enough!

The only way things will change is if we learn to respect and love each other no matter what our race, religion and beliefs are.

Life is all about love and relationships. Think about how you see other people. God has a plan for each of us and he wants you to have a relationship with as many people as possible. Our mission in life is to LOVE! Its that simple.

This week focus on how you see people and how you treat them. I guarantee you your life will seem a lot better at the end of it.

Happy Valentine’s Day friends!

2021-02-07T13:19:00.000-06:00

The Love of Running

I love running! It has defined me and helped to make me the man I am today.

I discovered running at the young age of 16 when I decided that football hurt too much, not to mention I wasn’t very good at it.

I grew up in Northern California in the shadow of the Santa Cruz Mountains which were filled with tall Redwood and Pine trees. It was my playground for four years. I loved running in those mountains.

I ran my first marathon in those mountains. It was probably one of the toughest marathons I have ever run as it took off from Los Gatos, climbed through the mountains and ended down in Soquel which was just south of Santa Cruz on the Pacific Ocean. It was 13 miles up, 4 miles along the summit and then 9 miles downhill. Looking back on the experience, it wasn’t the uphill that got me, it was the 9 miles down that got challenged me. After that race, my love for marathons took off.

For awhile it stayed with me then it left me because of college. Its very difficult to run in the harsh winters of Nebraska.

Everything changed in my early 30’s when one day I woke up, looked in the mirror and decided I needed to change my lifestyle or else I would be in big trouble.

Running changed my life. Two years after I started up again. I was 100 pounds lighter and a new confident man.

Because of running I met my wife Ginger. This March we will celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary. Ginger gave me two sons. They have seen me as a runner as long as they have been alive. I owe everything I have in my life to running.

What I love about running, is it is a mirror of life. You get back what you put into it. The harder you work, the greater the success. Just like in life, you have good days and you have bad ones. The way you respond to those bad days will determine how the next day goes.

Just like life, you experience moments of euphoria as well as moments of despair. There is good pain and there is bad. And when you don’t expect it, you’ll experience that “Runners High” where everything in your body and mind tingle with excitement.

Everyday I get to run is a blessing from God. He has given all of us a gift; the gift of running. I always remind runners that not everyone has the gift of running.

We’re a special breed. Getting up and running before the sun comes up or going out in 85 degree, 90 percent humidity to run 10 miles. It takes a special person with a special gift to do that. Running lays foundation to our successes in life because it trains us on how to deal with life.

There is no other sport like running. It takes dedication and discipline to strap on the running shoes and go out and run. And even though running can be tough on the body, if you take care of yourself and listen to your body your running days can go far into your life.

2020 was a tough year for us runners. During that time, it was my refuge from all the craziness in this world. Through it all the one constant was I could run and nothing could stop me. I know 2021 will be a great year as we are already starting to see races crank up. 2020 sparked my love for running because I couldn’t race, it made me stronger and more determined to run, because I wouldn’t let it be taken away from me.

So, the next time you’re not sure if you want to step out and get your daily run in, remember everything it has given you. I guarantee you; you’ll be strapping up those shoes and hitting the road. Yes, I love running and I will for the rest of my life.

Keep running friends!

The Big Day

2014-01-17T19:27:00.001-06:00

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

The day is finally finally here. On Sunday January 19th I will set out with about 25,000 runners on another journey. That journey is The Houston Marathon. I have been training for this since July, a lot of mileage has been longed and sweat and tears. I have run in high heat and humidity and freezing cold tempertures. And through all of that as in everything else, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has been with me every step of the way.

"Be sure of this. I am with you always, even to the end of this age." Matthew 28:20

What a wonderful, wonderful gift he has given me. I am so lucky to be able to run. And if though I have trained for this, the thought of running 26.2 miles still seems like a huge challange. It's a natural feeling, trust me.

But, what I do take into Sunday is I know that God will protect me, he will challange me all for one reason, and one reason only, to give him all the glory. What's so cool about all of this is He planned this for me. He knows exactly what's going to happen on Sunday. And I also know this is going to make me a stronger person and believer.
And I will rejoice in that as it says in James 1:2-4

" My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience. Let your patience show itself perfectly in what you do. The you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you need."

I know that over the course of running this marathon that there will be troubles, but I will get thru them and I will be patient.

He is going to give me strength to do this, it says this exactly in Phillipians 4:13

"I can do all things through Christ, because he gives me strength."

The reasons for me doing this marathon are not really that important. I sense it was something God put on my heart so I'm trusting him knowing that there is a reason for me to do this. The last marathon I ran was in 2009. I remember it well because at about mile 23 I know he stepped in carried me to the finish. Somebody in the crowd looked at me and then said "let him take you home." Somehow after that I found that extra bit of strength to finish.

It's so refreshing to know that he loves me so much that just at the right moment he sweeps in and takes me in his arms and carries me home. Knowing that eases all that anxiety about whether or not I will finish.

But most of all, I know there is nothing that will EVER take his love away from me, and because of that, I can relax and enjoy the moment.

Romans 8:37-39 spells it out so clearly.

"But in all these things we are completly victorious through God who showed his love for us. Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is Christ Jesus our Lord."

Everytime I read these versus, it just causes me to do nothing but smile becuause it states it very clearly; nothing can ever take that away.

So on Sunday morning, I'll strap on my shoes and the armor of God's love and set out on that journey we call the marathon.

Be safe my friends and I'll see you on the road.

Coach Rich

A New Beginning

2013-12-31T14:04:00.001-06:00

"I find rest in God, only he can save me. He is my rock and salvation. He is my defender, I will not be defeated." Psalm 62:1-2.

I read today that before we move into the new year we should thank God for everything he has done for us this year.

2013 was a year of change for me when it came to my running career. In 2012, my health issues were finally brought to light and after sitting down with my doctor a plan was formulated and then executed. Slowly things began to change. But the changes didn't really start to change until early 2013 with the running of the Houston Half Marathon and Woodlands Half Marathon where I finally started running at my marks from a few years ago.

The biggest change I made though was the decision to change training programs and to also get back into the coaching game. The dream of running a program where faith and family had a big emphasis was finally going to happen. It was also the opportunity to put faith in my Lord Jesus Christ at the front and to help others strengthen their faith as well.

God always opens doors for us when he feels we are ready for the next challange. This was one of them. The first leap of faith for me was leading a prayer before our Saturday runs and group races. To be honest with you, I was very nervous and fearful because I really didn't know how people would react. But I also know that in those moments the power of the Holy Spirit takes over. The result was overwhelming! It's gotten to the point now that people in our group expect us to pray before our big runs.

"Anyone who trusts in him will never be disappointed." 1 Peter 2:6b

My struggle as it is with almost everybody, is learning to trust God in all my endeavers. We have a tendency to want to drive rather than let God do it for us. The only thing we control is our attitude and perception. As it says in Proverbs 3:5 "Trust the Lord with all your heart and don't depend on your own understanding."

The next big challange for me was training for the Houston Marathon in January 2014. I haven't done a marathon since 2010, primarily because I really don't enjoy the distance. But once again I sensed and felt that it was time to give it another shot, especially since I'm turning 50 three days before the race. How many 50 year olds in this country can say they ran 26.2 miles? I think the percentage is very small.

My new coach is awesome, he knows exactly what I'm capable of. He understands what motivates me and he knows when to push and when to back off. I honestly think he is the best running coach I have ever had. And if I can some day be even half the coach he is it will be a huge accomplishment.

Yes, God is good. I know that come January 19th, I will finish my 15th marathon. We all have defining moments in our life, God puts them there so we can become stronger in our faith and also show others how He is the only way to true happiness in life.

The gift of running is from God and I feel very lucky to have the ability to run. I know that it keeps me healthy and strong. I am so thankful!

What lies ahead in 2014. I will set my goals, but I also know that everyday is a adventure. The one thing I have is that faith that God is taking care of me. Jeremiah 29:11 says it best "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and to not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

So rejoice and give thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that he loves you and wants nothing but good for you. I tell people this all the time. "Our dreams are not even close to what God has planned for us."

Dream big! Happy New Year and I hope ALL of you have a blessed 2014.

Rich

Inspiration

2013-09-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

10,000 Reasons

"Bless the Lord, O my soul

O my soul

Worship His holy name

Sing like never before

O my soul

I'll worship Your holy name."

I honestly believe there come moments during a training cycle where it can and will elevate you to the next step. Yesterday morning was one of those times.

The morning was hot and humid and I was faced with the longest run of my training cycle since last March. The mileage on the schedule told me I had to run 11 miles, and I knew this was going to be a tough one because of the conditions. It's mornings like this where I wish I would have stayed in bed. But as a runner I have also learned that no matter how hard the obstacle seems, we all have a very stubborn mentality to suck it up and give it our best shot.

Maybe it was the prayer before the group that helped. Usually that calms me. On this morning, I really didn't want to do this, but I pressed on.

Matthew 19:26 says "with God all things are possible." so I pressed on and started the run. The thing I love about my training group Volte Endurance is we always try to help each other out. On this morning I experienced it first hand.

About 3-miles in to the run, one of my runners from the 10 for Texas program caught up to me at the rest stop. We talked a little and decided to move on together.

So off we went, mile by mile we went. The temperatures got warmer and the humidity seemed to increase. But we stuck together. About 8 miles into the run I was really beginning to feel the distance. My legs hurt and I felt like I was beginning to get the weak-leg syndrome. To me when I hit that point, I stop running and do a lot of walking. But something told me to keep going, and I made sure to keep my partner from quitting as well.

Finally the last mile was here, I told myself not to give up so I kept working.

On my MP3 player I have a mixture of music. It consists of everything from good ol' fashion rock and roll to Contemporary Christian.

I honestly believe in moments when we need Him, God comes through for us.

About a 1/2 mile from the finish, I wanted to walk sooooo bad, but then 10,0000 Reasons came on and all of a sudden I was energized, I was so happy. I started singing the song out loud. I didn't care if other people heard me singing, at the moment I was so full of joy I felt like singing. I looked up at the sky and the scene was beautiful, it spoke to me. It was like he was filling my body with the extra energy to finish.

Finally my friend and I finished and we both thanked each other for helping each other get through a very difficult run. Later on I got a note from her thanking me for providing her with the inspiration to finish. She told me it was my singing of 10,000 Reasons that helped her finish.

There is nothing like the feeling that you have finally broken through the wall. The last couple of weeks have been a struggle because of the heat and humidity, but God has a way of motivating and watching over us to get to the next level. Yesterday that is exactly what he did.

Yesterday morning was a blessing from God. He gave me the strength and endurance to finish 11 miles. But most importantly he gave me something to think about.

1 Corinthians 9:27 says "I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I preached to others."

What you think about your chances of success goes along way in determining whether you will enjoy it and if you will be successful.

Keep your heads up my friends and stay positive in everything you do.

See you on the road.

Coach Rich

Overcoming the Storm

2013-08-11T21:59:00.001-05:00

"I look up to the hills, but where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let you be defeated. He who guards you never sleeps. Psalm 121:1-3

The last two weeks were brutal. Let's just say that anything that could go wrong, went wrong. Then yesterday when I was trying to decide on what I was going to write about, it came to me. During all the tough moments, what did I find myself doing?

I prayed a lot, but the prayers were not your typical ones, instead they were spent thanking the Lord for all he had given me, thanking him for testing me. As I stated two weeks ago, God is always testing us, he is always looking for ways to make our faith stronger and stronger.

The reason for this is when we come through those struggles we are a testimony to others out there.

This morning I was watching one of the Pastors I like to watch on Sunday mornings and his topic was about one thing, be positive or be quiet. I thought back to my troubles and I remembered that during that time I really tried to stay positive no matter how bad it seemed to get.

When you are in the middle of the storm, praise God and thank him, and he will reward you. The moment you start speaking negative, everything will come to a screeching halt. Bottom line is if you don't have something positive to say don't say anything.

Proverbs 6:2 says "You might get trapped by what you say; you might be caught by your own words."

Don't curse your future with negative words, instead embrace the tough times praising God all along the way. When I face tough challenges, "I always ask myself, Is this going to kill me? Is this a life or death situation?" 99 percent of the time it's not, so instead say to yourself "this to will pass"

Sure enough over the last couple of days things began to work themselves out. The air conditioner wasn't broken, the problems with my foot didn't feel as bad and new opportunities opened up with my job.

Right now it's really tough running, we are truly in the dog days of summer but we are also 3/4 of the way through the summer heat (hopefully). What we have do is keep training, keep working hard. Every run, every workout in the heat is a victory!

Our time is short on this earth, enjoy this time in your life. Instead of dreading the heat and humidity, take it on! Because it will make you stronger than ever.

Remember, God put you on this earth to do great things! He has a master plan for you, he has no intention of bringing harm to you.

And remember what Romans 8:31 says, "If God is for us, no one can defeat us."

So go out there and be your best because that's what He wants us to do and nothing less.

Have a blessed week my friends and I'll see you on the road.

Coach Rich

Perseverance

2013-07-27T11:46:00.001-05:00

"Let your patience show itself perfectly in what you do. Then you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you do." James 1:4

We are impatient. Yes I said it. As humans we expect immediate results in everything we do. We expect instant gratification. But God doesn't see it that way, as he wants our faith to grow stronger and the only way that will happen is by testing us.

As Ephesians 4:18 says "We have small troubles for a while now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles. We set our eyes not on what we see but on what we cannot see. What we see will last only a short time, but what we cannot see will last forever.

So in my opinion faith is believing in something you cannot see, feel or touch. It's taking that step not knowing what the end result will be. Perseverance is sticking with that leap of faith and staying the course. I want God to test me. I want God to help me to grow my faith.

Romans 5:3-5 sums it up perfectly, "We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces charactor, and charactor produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out our Love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.

Since I am training for a marathon I have to have patience. I have to trust my coach that he has my best interest in mind. The goal is the marathon and nothing else. I have to trust the training.

It's tough running right now. We are in the heat of summer. The other day it was 103 degrees during my run but I knew the only way I'm going to complete that marathon in January is by following my training plan. But, I also know this, cooler tempertures will come and when they do, the fruits of my training now will come to bear.

The best run of the year is that first autum run when the tempertures are 60 degrees and there is nothing but blue sky. It's awesome. I have to be patient and wait for that first fall morning.

My advise to all my fellow runners is to have patience and remember that every run you complete in this heat it is making you stronger and stronger. That is my hope for you.

Have a great week and God Bless.

See you on the road.

Coach Rich

Humility

2013-07-20T11:00:00.002-05:00

"All who make themselves great will be made humble, but those who make themselves humble will be made great." Luke 14:11

It's been one of those weeks where God has constantly been giving me basically the same message. That message is Humility. Luke 14:11 pretty much says it all for me. It's a message I constantly communicate to my boys as they progress in life.

Staying humble in this day and age is extremely difficult because we live in a society where the amount of success you achieve is where you are placed in societies pecking order. For a long time I was willing to do anything to be successful and it was mostly so I could gain the approval of others.

Then I finally began to figure it out, the only person I need to be successful for is my Lord Jesus Christ. That's it.

Dr. Charles Stanley said recently "humility doesn't come naturally. It requires deliberate, ongoing effort to remain in God's presence so we can see how worthy He is of our total submission."

Proverbs 3:34 says it best, "God is against the proud, but he gives grace to the humble."

Staying humble is tough, it's something I try to do everyday, but pride, greed and jealously are constantly trying to take that humility away.

So why did I decide to write about humility this week?

Well as a runner I have to remember to stay humble in my training. Which means when I have success in a race or a workout, its ok to acknowledge that success and even celebrate it, but only to myself. Humility in running is also about acknowledigng other peoples successes and giving encouragement to people who need it.

The old saying of it's better to give rather than receive is really true.

One other thing before I sign off, I have found that God is very good about reminding us of our duty to be humble. There have been many times when I filled myself with pride about my running and success, and than bam! I find myself humbled because somebody or something kicked my ass (sorry about the language)

So stay humble my friends, thank the Lord for giving you the gift of being able to run and exercise. Congratulate your fellow runners on their success, and success will come to you.

Have a great week and I'll see you on the road.

Coach Rich :)

Comfort

2013-07-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

"My Father has me all things. No one knows the Son, except the Father. Ano one knows the Father except the Son and those whom the Son chooses to tell" Matthew 11:27

It took me a while but I have finally figured it out. If God wanted for us to be comfortable, everything would be easy in our day to day lifes. Think about it. You could could ask for anything and God would just give it to us. Wouldn't that be great?

But also wouldn't that get boring after a while? I think so.

We are creatures of habit. If there is something new to try, typically we won't do it unless we know we will gain instant gratification or results.

Today was the first day of our new training program. To be honest with you I thought the turnout would be tremendous. But, it didn't turn out that way. A grand total of four people showed up. As I began to talk to people, the feedback I heard was not suprising.

"Our group is too fast." or another one was "we won't have anybody to run with or I'll get left behind."

To be honest with you, the comments didn't suprise me. But it led me to wonder and question why were people thinking those thoughts? What did I do wrong?

I'm guilty of being comfortable just like everyone else. Up until this year, I was content on continuing my current training program. It was the same over and over. But than one day, I was convinced that I needed to make a change especially if I was going to run a marathon in January, I needed a change of scenary, things needed to be mixed up a little.

The bottom line is we all have choices! You have to decide on what you're going to do and then do it. The only way to get better at something is to go from being comfortable to uncomfortable. And most importantly you have to challange yourself!

I'm uncomfortable. But, I also know that in the long run everything will turnout to be successful because I know that is what God wants for me.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Adversity and trails brings faith and hope which is something He wants all of us to have. So I know he will not let me fail.

I also know that what we have planned will bring people out. We have plans for runners of all abilities. NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. But we are different because people will get a little uncomfortable because they will see a training program where they may be doing things they haven't done before.

One of my friends who came out today really lifted my spirits because she had never been that exposed to our group. But as she looked around at the group afterwards eating breakfast and hanging out, she commented that a lot of people she knows would like this.

Finally it's all about baby steps. It's July, it's hot and January is a long way off. But, 12 weeks from now is 10 Miles for Texas and it's time to ask yourself, do you just want to finish or do you want to do well?

If you want to do well, get into a program and start training, the rewards will be tremendous.

See you on the road.
Coach Rich

God will give me everything I need!

2013-06-29T11:42:00.001-05:00

"My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need." Philippians 4:19

It's almost here. Two weeks from today my journey towards completing my first marathon since 2009 will start. Additionally, a new program for training will crank up as well and the focal point of managing it will rest on my shoulders.

A couple of weeks ago in my men's bible study group I confessed to the guys that I was a little scared and nervous and I asked them to pray for me. So what am I afraid of?

Fear of failing - I am afraid of failing not especially in my physical endeaver of completing a marathon, for I realize that if God wants me to do this, he will open that door for me. No, what I fear is letting my fellow runners down, that I will revert back to my foolish ways. A few years ago when I was running Woodlands Fit I failed everybody because I didn't always give my best or I was too wrapped up in my own personal challanges.
Fear of the unknown - I really don't know what to expect this time around, it's been three years so I'm not sure how my body will react to the difficult training regime. We don't have the deep resources available that Fit offered so will I be able to make the right decisions so people will complete their training goals?
Fear of criticism - I know I should not be afraid of this because one thing I have realized throughout my life is you cannot please everybody and there will always be somebody who will not like what you do or say. It's just part of human nature. But still I'm nervous about this and wonder if I can take criticism?

One thing all of you should know is this; Fear is not going to keep me from being successful. Why do I say this? Because I will rely on my faith to get through this and to give my best because I know that is what God expects of me! I also know that God is and will be with me ALWAYS and that NOTHING can every separate me from the love he has for me.

"Yes I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will EVER be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

What powerful versus! It's my suit of armor! It's so joyful to know that nothing can ever take that away from me.

So the key to success this season is simple, always do your best, pray before every endeaver for this and God will grant it.

Finally, as it says in the opening verse above, God is going to give me all the tools to complete this. So my personal guarantee to all of you is you will get nothing but my best!

Running

Some quick thoughts about training.

It's hot!

So we all need to be extremly careful over the next couple of months. Many of you who have known me over years know how I feel about this. So I'll say it again. "Hydrate, Hydrate and Hydrate." Drink before, during and after your workouts. In our Saturday morning runs, look out for each other other. Look for signs of dehydration. If you see somebody who appears to have symptoms of heat injury, stay with that person and if needed get help. If you are not feeling well before your workout, than take the day off. Remember, the goal is to get to the race.

Heat can kill! And if you don't carefully watch yourself the goal of getting to the race will go away.

We need to help each other get through these next couple of months. Don't get discouraged when you have a bad workout. Instead focus on the fact that you completed it! We all have bad workout days and I'll tell you right now that in this weather, every one of you is going to have days when you struggle. Put it behind you! Because how you do today or tomorrow is NOT going to determine the results of your race! Stay focused on the end goal, if you do that, I have no doubt in my mind that you will be successful.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July and I'll see all of you next week.

Coach Rich

Fathers Day

2013-06-15T12:46:00.000-05:00

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

Fathers Day is my favorite day of the year, not because it's the one day I get to take off as a Father, or receive gifts, no it's my favorite because I get to celebrate not only being a Father, but celebrate all our Fathers.

When I was growing up, as like all kids, I had dreams of what I wanted to be someday. My dream was to one day have a wife, a couple of kids and house. The idea of being surrounded with love just really appealed to me. But now I know it was something that God placed on my heart because he created Fatherhood with an eternal purpose: to reveal and represent Himself.

Being a Father is the ultimate statement of being a manly man! We are commanded by God to be the spiritual leaders of our house. We are to protect and defend our family, we are to take care and provide for them. We are responsible for the success of our marriage and the raising of our children.

Being a Father takes courage and resolution to do the right thing and to set the standard for being a good person in this world. I want my boys to know that as they grow their place on earth is to love God first and then love others as much as themselves. I essentially want them to understand that one day they will be modern day knights. The Knights in the middle ages who served their kings were seen as men who lived pure, spoke the truth, righted the wrong and served their king to the death.

So I want my boys to grow up to be Modern Knights. The knight always treated women and people with respect that's what I want my boys to do. And who weill their King be? Their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Being a Father is the hardest job I have ever had but it is the most rewarding one as well. I love being a Father and a Husband and I wouldn't trade places with anyone!

My Dad went to be with the Lord a little of a year and a half ago, and I miss him terribly, but I also know he is in a perfect place now. I remember him telling me to live everyday like it's my last one. It's the same advice I remind my boys.

So to all the Dads out there, enjoy tomorrow but also make sure and thank The Father for what you have, because it is a privalege and a Gift from him that you get to be a Father! We have the greatest job on this earth!

Have a great day, and I'll see all of you out on the Road!

Coach Rich

Never Alone

2013-06-08T11:52:00.001-05:00

"Be strong and brave. Don't be frightened, because the Lord your God will go with you. He will not leave you or forget you." Deuteronomy 31:6

Last week I wrote about coming back to my love, running and coaching. A lot of you know a little about me but I thought today I would tell you a little bit my story and how I came to the faith I have today. My faith is everything and I strongly believe that it applies to every aspect of my life.

So here we go! I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into my life at the innocent age of 17. I was a junior in high school and had joined a high school christian youth group named "Young Life." The youth pastor Nick would meet with me every Wednesday morning for breakfast to talk about my life and how accepting Jesus into my heart would change everything. So one night, in my room I got down on my knees and prayed, I asked God to forgive me for my sins because Jesus had given his life so that I may have everlasting life.

At that very moment, I felt lifted up. I literally felt something enter me and my heart was filled with joy, it was one of the most incredible moments in my life.

Fast forward 26 years. It was 2009 and I had just gotten laid off from my job, I was very worried about what the future held for me. I was a beaten man because professionally and personally my confidence in myself was at an all time low. Then at the suggestion of a friend, he recommended I check "The Between Jobs Ministry" so I attended a meeting and it put everything in perspective.

In this meeting they talked about how God would never leave me and that he wanted nothing but good for me. The bible verse they quoted said it all.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I broke down in tears. I felt so ashamed that I had forgotten about Him and what he could do for me. So at that moment I asked for forgiveness and pledged to never put him second in my life.

I was out of work for 6-months but over that time God helped me to become the spiritual leader of my family. My confidence in myself professionally came back and he opened doors for me that I never thought would open. Over that time he provided for us, we never struggled financially, he provided for all our needs.

Today things couldn't be better. Our family is stronger than ever. My career is at an all time high and physically I am in great shape. I feel so good that I'm going to run the Houston Marathon this year. He has opened up a new door for me with the coming start of the Volte Endurance Training program.

Are there days when things are hard? Yes.

But the differance between now and five years ago is I know he wants nothing but good for me and my family. I also know in my heart that his plans for me are far greater than I can EVER imagine. In fact, I told Billy this just last month. We are thinking too small, God's plans for our group are limitless! We're focused on our little group here in the Woodlands, but God wants it to impact everybody!

When I reflect back on that faithful night 32 years ago, I realize he NEVER left me and over that time he was watching over me and protecting me. The only regret I have is that I didn't realize that. But that's ok.

I'm so excited about the next 9-months. I can't wait to get to know of each of you and hear your stories. I truely believe every step of the way, God will guide me in leading our group. I know there will be some tough days but I also know this;

"If God is for us, NO ONE can defeat us." Romans 8:31

So hang on friends, this is going to be a great journey.

Have a blessed day, and I'll see you out there on the road!

Coach Rich

Great to be back!

2013-06-01T11:45:00.000-05:00

It's great to be back!

So what do I mean by that? For the last 12 to 18 months I really didn't know what direction my running was going to take me. But, most importantly the message I have been hearing is that God give us talents and abilities. I know that he gave me the ability to run and coach and inspire people to go out and overcome physical challanges in their life.

Up until 2009 that is exactly what I had been doing for Woodlands Fit. Then all of a sudden that came to screeching halt when I was told that the program needed to go a different direction. I was devestated and very hurt. So I withdrew from the running community and did my own thing. For three years all I heard was you should get back in the game, but I really didn't think I was ready.

In January of this year, I was having dinner with my good friend Billy Dwyer and he told me he wanted to start a new training program and that he needed me to help out. We were with a few people who I had known for several years, they all looked at me and nodded.

Now this is something Billy and I had been talking about for the last three years. In a way, it was a dream for both us. You see, we wanted to design a program that would be different than any other program in the area. It would be a program that would give back to the community. It would be a program where every runner would be made to feel special and most importantly it would be a program that would help people strengthen their relationship with God.

So the moment of truth was finally upon me, it was time to get off the pot! It was time to stop thinking about myself and help others change their lives.

In Hebrews 11:23-29 the word faith is mentioned five times about how Moses had to put his faith in God when it came to overcoming difficult situations. Now it's my turn to put my faith in God knowing he will guide me through this journey I'm about to take. You see, I'm not only managing this program, I'm running the Houston Marathon in January 2014. When I complete this race it will be my first one in over 3 years, also it will 3 days after my 50th birthday.

What excites me most about this journey though is how we will have the opportunity to make a difference in the community. We will encourage everybody who enrolls in the program to pick a ministry or cause to raise money for it. There will be no minimum on how much has to be raised, the point will be to give something back to people who need our help.

What's scary to me though is how I will have to take that step of faith to show people how deep my love is for our Savior Jesus Christ. It will start off with a quick prayer before our Saturday runs, but I'm hoping that will soon develop into something much more, what that is, only God knows. I won't be afraid to mention scripture in newsletters or while talking to people (although I'm terrible at remembering exact versus). The point is people will know how I feel about God and how great he is.

In today's society, we are told that it's politically incorrect to be public about our faith, but the bible says that as Christ followers we need to be bold and that we need to spread the good news.

So will people be uncomfortable with my beliefs? Probably. Will there be criticism because of what I believe? More than likely. But you know what, I don't care! Because if only one person becomes closer to Christ because of what I say and do, than I'm doing my job.

I'm excited about this opportunity because I'm back! I'm finally going to get to do what I was doing 4 years ago except it will be even better. My life has changed for the better since 2009 and I know I can help people because its what God put me on this earth to do. And I know God will direct me every step of the way.

Isaiah 30:21 says "If you go the wrong way - to the right or the left - you will hear a voice behind you saying this is the right way. You should go this way."

So here we go! It's time to start running and praying! See you on the road!

Coach Rich

Following a Plan

2011-08-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

Praying

Psalm 27:4 - "I ask only one thing from the Lord. This is what I want: Let me live in the Lords house all my life. Let me see the Lords beauty and look with my own eyes at his temple."

What does my heart desire most? Love. I want to feel loved by God (which I know he does), by my wife, kids, family and friends. When I leave this world to be with the Lord, I want people to remember me for who I was and what I did in life.

Today is a rather unique day because there is a big event taking place here in Houston called The Response. There is a lot of attention on it because the Governor of our State organized it. I prayed today that it would not be viewed as a political event. Of course the press makes it out to be that. As I have listened to some of it there has been no political messages. Instead it has focused so far on praying to our Lord for forgiveness of our sins. I think I mentioned last week that in our day and age we get way too wrapped in the false idols of the modern day. I am just as guilty as anybody else. So many times we concern ourselves with how much money we make, what kind of cars we drive and how big our house is. I admit it, I want nice things and everyday I have to fight what is more important? The Love of God or what I have on this earth.

The World is a tough place right now. There are a lot of economic problems. There are wars and millions of people are starving to death. I pray for my sons that they will be safe. It's scary but I know my Lord will watch over them and listen to their prayers. I know I'm kind of going on a tangent today but it just seems like things are so crazy right now. What keeps me at peace is in Matthew Chapter 6:

Matthew 6:33-34 - Seek first God's kingdom and what God wants. Then all your needs will be met as well. So don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will have its own worries. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Running
Week two was tough. Tempertures are hotter than last week. Running for 30 minutes feels like an hour. It's physically draining!! I know it's going to make me stronger a few months away but man it's hard to stay motivated but I have to follow the training plan if I am to be successful. I think I am making gains but because of the extreme heat it's hard to see the benefits. I read somewhere last week that God has a plan and a purpose for each of us. Everything happens for a reason, he is not going to waste our time. So I know he is testing me and making me stronger so I will be successful in 6 months.

The week in review
Sunday 6 miles in the morning with very humid tempetures. It was tough.
On Tuesday, I did track and the workout was 3 sets of 2 minutes hard, 1 minute easy, 1 minute hard, 30 seconds easy and then 30 seconds hard. I felt pretty good through this workout because it was fairly quick. On Wednesday, I visited my massage therapist. I am a huge believer in deep tissue massage, I compare it to a oil change. Everything is made fresh. On Thursday despite being sore, I ran 30 minutes at a tempo pace. This was the hardest run of the week because the temperture was 104. Today we did hill repeats, at the start of the workout it was 83, the first part felt pretty good and the hill workout went well, but going back to the start of the run was tough. I'm not looking forward to the 7 mile run tomorrow because I know the temps will test my physical strength again.

Gaining Strength

2011-07-30T10:46:00.000-05:00

Praying

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 - "May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father encourage you and strengthen you in everything good thing you do and say. God loved us and through his grace he us a good hope and encouragement that continues forever."

Wow, what an amazing verse. To me it says that God and his son Jesus strenghten and encourage us in all good things we do and say. But even when we fall short, and we all do, just know that you have eternal life and you will someday catch up. When you have this feeling pray for God's help because he will be there to help you through the tough times.

As it was said in Dueteronomy 31:8 - "The Lord himself will go before you. He will be with you, he will not leave you or forget you. Don't be afraid and don't worry."

We all experience fear at times, fear is good because if your not afraid than your not humble and being humble is so important in this day and age. There are so many people out there who all they do is boost about how they accomplished this, or how big their house is or how nice their car is. So what!! I tell my boys that if they work hard at something good things will come.
So fear is good, because once you conquer that fear you are a stronger person.

Remember this, God will always be bigger than the challanges in your life!!

Running
Week 1 of my training program is almost over. The tempertures so far have been pretty high. I can't remember the last time it was this hot. But, I believe that in the long run, training in these tempertures will pay off in the fall races and final preperation for my two goal runs.
Sunday I did about 5.5 miles on a fairly flat course. It was pretty humid out but I did ok. Tuesday nights are track workouts which can be especially difficult in 98 degree tempetures. I ended up doing 8x400 at my R-Pace which is a fairly quick pace for me. For the most part I averaged about 1:41 per 400. I was suprised with that result. On Thursday, I went to Memorial Park and did a loop which is about 3-miles. For mile 2, I picked up the pace and ran at Tempo pace which for now is about 9:00 per mile. My split for mile 2 was 8:50.
So far I think I'm doing better than normal. I'm going through the usual issues, tight muscles and some soreness but I'm trying to take care of that by stretching after every run and also with trips to my massage therapist and chiropractor.
Next week is going to be real interesting because I saw that tempertures are to be 100+ almost everyday. Oh well, it's all about faith and hard work..see you next week!

Here we GO!!

2011-07-23T11:42:00.000-05:00

"The Lord says forget what happened before and don't think about the past. Look at the new thing I am going to do, it is already happening, don't you see it?" Isaih 43:18-19

It's important to forget the past, to forget about previous failures and things or people who hurt you. All you can really do is focus on the now. You can't change the past and you cannot worry about the future. I'm the kind person who really believes that if you do the work everyday that you will meet your goals, because that is God's plan for all of us. He wants good to happen for us.

"So don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will have it's own worries. Each day has enough troubles of it's own." Matthew 6:34

So I need to forget about the past and remember to look at NOW and its power. We miss the moment over and over because we are too focused on the barriers. One thought I read the other day said this, "Lord use my failures to help me make adjustments in my life that strenghen my faith."

And one thing I have to remember is that everything I do going forward I have to turn it over to God and use his power.
"You will not succeed by your own strength or by your own power, but by my spirit says the Lord All Powerful." Zechariah 4:6

Running
Day 1 of the training program. My plan for this year will be broken down into two phases. The first one will concentrate on getting my speed and endurance for a distance up to 13 miles. The test for that phase will be at the end of October. In previous years I have run my "A" race earlier in that month, but this year will be a little different.
Phase 2 will focus on training for the two marathons I am running in January and March. A lot of long mileage and the week workouts will be a little more intense. I plan on really sticking to the schedule this year because I am going to have to be stronger to accomplish this goal.
Right now it's really tough training because it is warm out. The main thing I hope to be able to do is control my diet better and really focus on staying hydrated on my workout days. Next week I would also like to try and get my physical assessment done at my company so I can begin mixing in some weight training.
It's all about getting stronger because towards the end of this adventure I'm going to need it.

New Season and New Challanges

2011-07-02T11:03:00.000-05:00

July 2, 2011

"Trust the Lord with all your heart and don't depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do and he will give you successes." Proverbs 3:5-7.

Well it's that time again to start the training season for 2011-2012. As the reading above states we can't have a relationship with God if we only trust him part time. We we trust God and open our hearts completly, he will make himself known to us in amazing ways.

"Those who know the Lord trust him, because he will not leave those who come to him." Psalm 9:10

This verse says it all. Part of knowing the Lord is reading the bible and praying everyday. I have figured out over the last 2 years that doing these things in the morning before I start my day, gives me a peace and confidence that NOTHING can get in my way when trying to accomplish something. My job going forward in a lot of ways is to spread this message to all my friends and family.

Running has been tough because we have had triple digit tempertures for the last two weeks. I'm a little out of shape but I know that will change over the next six weeks as I begin to prepare for 10 Miles for Texas in October. This is a big season for me as I am planning on running Houston in January and the 1st Annual Woodlands Marathon six weeks later. In order to accomplish this goal there are three things I would like to do in order to complete this successfully. First, I need to pay strict attention to my diet by eating more fruits and vegetables and protein. Second, I would like to incorporate some strength training on my off days and finally I really need to follow the training schedule more closely.

I think if I do all those things than I will complete this goal. Hopefully the other thing I will do is keep my blog up to date as well.

A New Beginning - June Week 1

2010-06-06T00:03:00.000-05:00

"Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times. Share with Gods people who need help. Bring strangers in need into your homes." Romans 12:12-13

It's a new season of running. My last big competition was in March when I ran the Texas Independence Relay, the total mileage was just over 18 miles. I did really well and helped the team out a bunch. After that I decided to dial it down some and focus on other things. I got the opportunity to watch my boys play baseball again. They did great!! I was one of the coaches on Davis's team and that was a real experience. It was awesome to see them improve over the 6 weeks of playing. I also tried to spend more time with the family and just be there for my wife Ginger.

Over the last couple of months I have also been more disciplined in my bible studies. Every morning I have tried to read the bible. Just recently I finished the book of Romans which has a ton of good versus.
This is a good one that I will carry with me throughout my training.

"If God is for us, no one can defeat us. He did not spare his own son, but gave him for us all. So with Jesus, God will surely give us all things." Romans 8:31-32

So over the last couple of months I have to realize even more that God will never leave me and that he will watch out for me.

I hope to do the marathon again this year but it will only be better. I came so close last year to having a great run. When I look back at it now, if I would have followed through on the training schedule I probably would have finished pretty well. On marathon day I'll be 47, I want to make a statement.

I started running hard again this week. My runs mainly consisted of short ones totaling 25 to 35 minutes. This morning I ran 5.5 miles. I probably won't start back on track until July. I want to establish my base before I jump back into that. I also want to eat and drink better. I will try and drink more fluids and take in the right balance of fruits and vegitables.

Finally I hope to record my adventures in here at least once a week. I hope people will read it, but if not that's ok to.

What's Next - February 13, 2010

2010-02-13T13:31:00.000-06:00

"Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see. Faith is the reason we remember great people who lived in the past. It is by faith we understand that the whole world was made by God's command so what we see was made by something that cannot be seen." Hebrews 11:1-3

"Without faith no one can please God. Anyone who comes to God must believe that he is real and that he rewards those who truly want to find him." Hebrews 11:6

I finally have the chance to update my report from the Houston Marathon. The reason I used the bible versus above for this posting is in the later stages of the race, my faith was truely tested. As you'll see below everything was going as planned until disaster struck.

Marathon Story
The weekend was awesome as it started out by celebrating my 46th birthday on Saturday and then getting to stay at the Hilton Americas. Friday night we went to Buca de Peppa for dinner. I had lasagna, salad and bread. All day Friday and Saturday I made sure and drank water (about 72-90 ounces each day, if not more). I felt pretty good going into Sunday.

On Saturday night after going out and eating a Chicken Sandwich, I sat down and made out my race plan. It was simple. Run the first 13 at a 10 minute pace, miles 13-20 at 9:30 to 9:45 pace, and depending on how felt 9:45 to 10 for the last six miles. I figured for the last six miles, I would probably be closer to a 10 minute pace. If I stuck to that plan my time would be around 4:10.

I also spoke to my sister Kellye, she was so excited for me. She reminded me of how proud she was of me. Most importantly she told me to not to forget about Dave, my father in-law who passed away in 2007. He had suffered with MS for over 30-years. My inspiration was so high. Now it was time to focus.

Sunday, I woke up at 5 AM, drank 16 ounces of Accelerade and ate a Snickers Marathon Bar. I dressed for warm weather which was shorts and short sleeve shirt. I started with the first wave.

So for the first mile as I planned I ran a 10:30, but on miles 2-3 I ran a 9:40 pace. When I first looked at my watch at those splits I was surprised and I told myself to slow it down or "your going to pay for it later on."

But, I couldn't slow down and my splits after that for miles 5 through 7 were 9:25 to 9:30, miles 6 through 12 the splits stayed between 9:10 to 9:25. The thing is, I did not feel like I was pushing it, it still felt like I was running slow. I came through the 10K at 1:01 and the halfway point at 2:06.

From 13 to 17 my pace picked up to between 9:00 to 9:20. Still did not feel like I was pushing it. I came through the 30K mark at 3:03. Which for me was ahead of my goal. But, right before 18, I felt a twinge in my left calve, uh-oh. But I figured that after I met my wife at 18 and picked up a new bottle of Accelerade, popped 4 electrolyte tablets and re-stocked my Gu..(I was using Kaboom Electrolyte Gels and the Accelerade Gels, which do not have the high sugar content that other gels have.) I would be ok.

Then it happened and the rest of the run would go down hill. At Mile 19, my left calve cramped up. I walked and jogged until 21, and then started to feel better. My pace at 19 was 14:09, but for miles 21, 22 and 23, I was able to run 10:30, 10:39 and 11:13. I figured that everything I had done at 18 was starting to kick in.

Up until this moment I wondered where God was. Why was he doing this me? I had trained so hard for this. All the long hours away from my family, the hot morning runs in 80 degree weather and the cold long 20 mile runs in a icy wonderland came to mind. I felt like he had abandened me.

But as usual I was wrong. God puts adversity onto us to make us stronger. So that is why he did this to me.

At mile 23, my prayers were answered. A friend of mine saw me and she knew I was in tough shape, but her words of encouragement helped me to carry on. It was at that moment that God told me what I needed to do. He was telling me not to give up and that my friend was there to pass on that message. It was amazing, and the tears flowed, I realized that God was truely amazing!! He would never leave me and the whole time he was right there with me.

At 24, my world came crashing down when my right calve locked up, from there on in I walked, skipped and jogged in to finish in 4:37:35.

I don't know why I cramped up. Some people have told me that I probably suffered from a Potassium shortage or maybe a lack of Sodium. I was hydrated, I drank at every stop. Water for the first 6 miles and after that water and Accelerade. I didn't take in Gu until 1:15 in to the race and after that it was every 35 to 40 minutes.

I do know this, as disappointed as I was with the results I walked away feeling proud of my effort. I had given it all I could give. Which is what God expects from us. And I the one verse from the bible still sticks with me.

"For God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26
What's Next
The first weekend in March I will participate in the Texas Independence Relay which is a 24-hour relay that goes from Gonzalez to Houston, Texas. I will be running with 11 other people, but most importantly it will be with one of runners from Woodlands Fit - Andy Sullman. Andy is an amazing story and before that weekend I will share it.

After that, I will run a few short races. Work on building my speed and endurance and prepare for the beginning of the Marathon training cycle which will start in July. I hope to run the Houston Marathon in 2011. It will be my 10th Houston and #14. Next year, I won't make the same mistakes.

Below are some pictures from that great day.

God is Great!!

It's Time for the Big Day

2010-01-16T21:56:00.000-06:00

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will be able to do what I did to this tree and even more. You will be able to say to this mountain, 'Go fall in the sea,' And if you have faith, it will happen. If you believe, you will get anything you ask for in prayer." Matthew 21-22

Praying
There is nothing like the power of faith and belief. Tomorrow will be a monumental test for me, but I know that through my faith and belief that God will fullfill my desires which is to finish the marathon. I have run 12 marathons and the last nine, before every one of them I was freaking out. I seemed so unsure if I could finish. But this year is different because for the first time ever I will have God running with me every step of the way. As it was said in Matthew 19:26
"for God all things are possible."
This applies to everything in life!! It says many times in the bible that this is true. All you have to do is ask. That is so amazing!! So I know that tomorrow will be a success, I have no doubt about it!!
Tomorrow I'm going to move the mountain.

As it was said in Romans 8:31 "If God is for us, no one can defeat us." I will not be defeated tomorrow!!

Kellye and Others
I learned tonight how different MS can affect different people. I spoke to Kellye tonight and I started to tell her what I was wearing tomorrow in the race and she stopped me. You see, she couldn't comprehend it and an hour later she would barely remember our conversation. Imagine if you couldn't remember conversations or movies or television shows that you had watched an hour ago.

Now with my father in-law Dave, I never saw those symptoms. It was more physical for him. Of course he lived with MS for 30+ years, and I never heard him mutter one time "why me?" Instead, he loved his family and lived like a true man. He was the kind of father/grandfather that I want to be. He was a mans-man.
I miss him and I will also be thinking about him tomorrow. When I finish I'm going to look up at the clear blue sky and say "this one was for you Dave."

Running
Well this is it. Tomorrow everything that I have worked for over the last 27 weeks will come together. I did it right this time. I feel pretty good both physically and mentally. I want to thank my wife and kids for putting up with me. It's been tough for them because I've been gone a lot. I now understand why I only do a marathon a year if not less, it takes a lot of time to train for it.
As for my goals tomorrow, I want to try and run a 4:15, but that is really going to depend on how I feel late in the race. The weather is going to be perfect so maybe it will be perfect. I believe I can finish by 4:30 anything more and I'll be disppointed.
But it is a marathon and not everybody can do one. Every marathon for me tells a different story. The very first marathon I did was at 17. It was the Summit Marathon and went from Los Gatos to Soquel which is just south of Santa Cruz on the Northern California coast. It was 13 miles up, 4 miles flat and 9 miles down. The down hill was what did me in. But still I finished in 3:30.
The most memorable marathon for me was the 1997 Houston Marathon. It was 28 degrees out, with a windchill of -30 and raining. All I can say is I did it.
The marathon is a test. It lets us know how alive we are. It shows us that if you work hard at anything you can accomplish that goal.
I told my wife Ginger this morning that's the message I hope my sons will understand when they see me finish tomorrow.

Thanks be to God for all his Glory!! See you on the other side.

5 Days Left Until the Big Day

2010-01-12T22:04:00.000-06:00

"If God is for us, no one can defeat us. He did not spare his own son but gave him for us all. So with Jesus, God will surely give us all things." Romans 8:31-32

So I look at this picture and think of good times. I think in this picture I was probably six or seven and Kellye was probably 4 or so. Every weekend we went down to my Grandma's house in Ecru, Mississippi. It was a great place to go as a kid. There was nothing but acres and acres of woods to play in. We could play hide and seek, have mud ball fights in the gullies and go swimming in the creek down by the railroad tracks. Back in these days the only plumbing was in the kitchen. The outhouse was 50 yards behind the house. And the house, was two bedrooms. There was the main bedroom which had two huge beds in it and there was the back room which had a small double bed in it. If you didn't get one of the beds you were on the floor in the living room. The front porch was where everybody typically hung out. It had a couple of rocking chairs and a porch swing. Whenever anybody drove by the house everybody waved. It was an awesome place and I'll never forget it.
I think of my sister and everything we had growing up. Granted we didn't always get along but we were kids.
What really kicks me about all of this is Kellye was a tomboy. She could hang with the toughest kids on the block and she never backed down from anybody.
In a lot of ways she fights MS with the same tenacity today. She will not let it beat her. She is the toughest person I have ever met. She is my hero!! So in a way the verse above describes it all. If God is for us, nothing can defeat us!!

Running
I sat down last night and figured out that I have done 8 Houston Marathons and 12 Marathons all together. This year seems different. I have trained hard for this race. 27 Weeks of running and over 400 miles logged on the roads. Man I need a break. But I love it and running has helped keep me feeling young. For some reason, so far this year I am not feeling nervous. Most of it is I know that God will be with me every step of the way and that with him I will finish this race. The other reason is I trained for this thing and really didn't have any distractions (no organizing or coaching Woodlands Fit). I felt like in order to do this I needed to be selfish so for the first time in 12 years that's exactly what I did.
So I'm not worried, I'm quietly confident. I know that Glory will be waiting for me at the finish line. And when I do cross it, I will raise my hands to the sky and yell out GOD IS GREAT!!