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Day 3 A Lively Day in Key West: Hemingway, Roosters, and Rum

This morning, I woke up feeling like I had wrestled a bear—muscle aches galore! But honestly, I get a kick out of them; they’re like little trophies for pushing my limits at the gym. You know, nothing says “great workout” quite like wincing every time you move.

Today was meant to be all about marathons, but instead, we zoomed off to Key West, aiming for a pilgrimage to Hemingway’s house. After munching down some protein bars, we hit the road from Marathon Key. Poor Brian looked like he barely survived a night at a rooster concert, although I didn’t hear a peep—I must’ve crashed hard!

By the time we got there around 10 a.m., Key West was bustling with cars and tourists. We lucked out and snagged a parking spot near Hemingway’s house. Close by was a lighthouse, so we thought, “Why not?” The climb was a nail-biter with those tiny steps, and my being a bit jittery about heights didn’t help. Brian was snapping pics left and right, and I just hoped he wouldn’t turn into a flying photographer.

Atop the lighthouse, we spotted the name of the 12th U.S. President. Fun fact: Brian’s related to Zachary Taylor. Seems like a family tradition to serve in the military, just like Taylor’s descendants.

 

We bumped into a couple from a cruise and realized a colossal ship was docked nearby. From up high, it still looked massive. And oh, the chickens roaming everywhere! It turns out they’re descendants of escapee fighting chickens from Cuba—no one owns them, but mess with them, and you’re in for a fine!

Chickens roam freely on the vibrant streets of Key West.

Thanks to my legendary lack of direction, we somehow ended up far from Hemingway’s house, turning our day into an unexpected marathon. We changed plans and went to a rum distillery we were supposed to visit tomorrow. We caught the 1 o’clock tour and learned all about Hemingway’s association with rum. I didn’t know it took ages to craft rum—no wonder it’s pricey!

Papa’s Punch is a cocktail made with Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum. It was sweet.

Afterward, we ducked into a bookstore where I snagged a book on banned literature—talk about a rebel reading list!

Finally, we made it to Hemingway’s house. I’ve been a Hemingway nut since my teens, and stepping into his home felt surreal. Brian, having recently enjoyed “The Old Man and the Sea,” was equally thrilled. Hemingway’s life was as colorful as his stories, surviving wars and plane crashes, maybe thanks to his lucky polydactyl cats, which we sadly only spotted a few of.

A cat sleeping on the bed Hemingway slept.

His writing studio was a step back in time; everything left just so as if he’d just stepped out. It reignited my desire to dive back into his works.
As for the cats, they’re practically celebrities, protected by the government, and occasionally fending off the odd chicken intruder.

Ernest Hemingway’s well-worn typewriter, preserved just as he left it.

We wrapped up our day with dinner at a Cuban restaurant, where I braved a Cuban coffee—strong enough to fuel a rocket, yet it didn’t keep me awake!

All in all, it was a day full of misadventures, history, and lots of walking—not exactly what we planned, but maybe that’s just how Hemingway would’ve liked it.

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Fine-Tuning My Running Strategy for Speed

Written: 3/9

Hello Dear Readers,

This year, I’ve set a new goal to enhance my running speed, sparking a deep interest in methods for faster running. I’ve also started closely monitoring my pace, ensuring consistency unless I train with the Fartlek methods, which involve varying speeds during the run. However, maintaining a steady pace remains my general aim.

In a recent run, I experienced a moment of clarity. I realized I could push myself harder, especially when I was just seconds off my target pace. Unlike a car with cruise control, I don’t have an automatic speed setting; it’s all about manually adjusting my effort based on how I feel physically during the run. This realization led me to a strategic shift. Now, I adjust my pace based on my performance relative to the target pace. If I’m ahead, I slow down; if I’m behind, I pick up the pace.

This approach, however, requires a delicate balance. It’s crucial to know your comfortable pace and to avoid the novice runner’s mistake of starting too fast only to slow down later, unable to maintain a consistent speed throughout the race. It is key to learn to adjust my target so that it’s always just slightly challenging but achievable.

Running is a continuous learning journey—not just about the sport but oneself. After several years, I’m still discovering new strategies and understanding my capabilities and limits. If one method doesn’t work, I’m ready to tweak it until I find what helps me run faster. The critical aspect here is perseverance; the resolve not to give up will eventually lead me to my fastest self.

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Day 2 A Day of Discovery: From Mangroves to Marathon

Today turned out to be more tiring than I expected, and in a twist that shocked absolutely nobody, I accidentally overslept by 30 minutes. I was under the delusion that I had an extra hour to sleep, but reality checked in while I was still half-asleep. So, I managed to sleep in for 30 glorious minutes. Sleeping over 8 hours is a rarity for me, as I usually cap it at a wild 7.5 hours—clearly, the extra rest was needed after our exhilarating travel day and an unintentional sunbathing session.

Feeling like a battery at 110%, I decided it was prime time for a small workout before launching into our 2nd day. There’s a fitness center in our hotel, so I snuck out for a 30-minute espionage mission on the elliptical trainer while Brian continued his beauty sleep. Since his stroke, he’s been on a more luxurious sleep schedule. I let him enjoy his royal slumber.

The fitness center was like a ghost town, equipped with an elliptical trainer, weight machine, recliner (because why not?), and an exercise bike. After my workout, I found Brian awake and pumped to hit the gym. I used this time to brush up on my German, turning my morning notebook into an impromptu language lab. Normally, my morning journal is brimming with tasks, but today, I was creatively bankrupt and struggled to fill out an A1-size note page. I stopped there, admitting defeat gracefully. Shortly after, Brian returned, and we kicked off our day.

Breakfast was a nostalgic dive into last night’s leftovers, with protein bars ready in our snack arsenal. We’re like food strategists on vacation: Brian monitors his protein and salt like a hawk while I play a calorie-counting game aiming for a 250-400 calorie daily deficit. This helps with a slow, pain-free weight loss regime and body sculpting that could rival Michelangelo’s work.

By 8:30 AM, we hit the road, but alas, the trails we planned to hike were closed. Undeterred, we drove about 45 miles to Marathon, one of the islands in the Keys, where a friendly lady at the visitor’s center bombarded us with information—and a few magical coupons.

 

Curry Hammock State Park was next on our list, a fabulous spot for kayaking. I reminisced about my kayaking days before moving to the United States, dreaming of future paddling adventures in Key West. Although hiking spots were scarce, we found a secluded 1.4-mile trail enveloped by lush vegetation—a real treat.

Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail

We stumbled upon some hidden beaches, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots in the Keys. The gentle breeze was a chef’s kiss after our jungle adventure. A surprise encounter with a small red snake, which I initially mistook for a tree root, added a dash of excitement!

A hidden beach, a peaceful escape from the busier spots in the Keys.

Navigating the branching trails was unnerving since we saw hardly anyone else, and I was concerned about Brian’s pace post-stroke. Despite the challenges, a friendly couple reassured us that the exit was nearby, dispelling my fears of becoming permanent forest residents.

Making sure I did not leave Brian behind.

Our next adventure was the local aquarium, possibly the most entertaining one I’ve ever visited. You can feed fish, turtles, and stingrays—these guys are surprisingly sociable and feel like a bizarre cross between cooked squid and raw chicken. They swam up eagerly, hoping for a snack. We made sure even the shy, smaller turtles got their share of the food.

A stingray came to greet us
Even in the peaceful world of turtles, it’s a race for the tastiest treats!

After the aquarium, we visited Sombrero Beach, which was lively but sadly bereft of shells, much to Brian’s dismay. The beach cleverly offered buckets and sticks for cleanup, which was pretty neat. The windy conditions had Brian clutching his hat like a precious gem.

 

A Beautiful View at Sombrero Beach Park

By 5 PM, my calorie counter read 2200, a testament to our active day and modest eating. I was in desperate need of a shower after all that excitement.

Dinner was at a nearby restaurant, where I enjoyed a taco salad with lightly seared ahi tuna, and Brian, ever the mindful eater, opted for a sombrero salad without the protein. Both meals were a delight, continuing our streak of culinary wins.

Back at the inn, I indulged in some writing while overlooking a pool where a joyful family played—an always heartwarming sight. Then, I cracked open a new book. Despite the exhaustion, it was another fantastic day of exploring and discovering the charm of the Keys.

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Weathering the Unpredictable: Adapting to What We Can Control

Written on March 6, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

 

Yesterday presented itself as one of those frustrating days that tested my patience to the fullest. The sky opened early in the morning, drenching everything in sight, and the rain didn’t let up for the entire day. There I was, glancing over my to-do list, hoping for even the briefest pause in the downpour to mow the lawn—no such luck. It seemed the weather was conspiring against me, keeping me from ticking off the chores that required being outdoors.

In moments like these, I’m reminded of a strategy my wife often employs: not worrying about what we cannot control. So, with a resigned sigh, I acknowledged the weather’s veto on my plans and decided to reorganize my week. It’s not the end of the world, after all. The forecast promises clearer skies on Thursday, so I’ve earmarked that day to catch up on my lawn mowing, aiming to compensate for last week’s unfinished business.

Tomorrow, however, remains untouched by these alterations as it is one of my regular gaming days—an appointment with friends that I’m keen to keep. This means I’ll need to be efficient with my time on Thursday to ensure everything is squared away.

Adapting to uncontrollable circumstances like the weather can be quite a challenge. It used to be that such disruptions would either send me into a bout of frustration or cause me to abandon my plans altogether. However, influenced by my wife’s calm demeanor and practical mindset, I’ve learned how to adjust and reshape my plans where possible.

So, what does one do on a day utterly disrupted by bad weather? The answer lies in focusing on what can be managed. It meant rescheduling outdoor tasks and finding other productive ways to use my indoor time effectively. By not dwelling on the disruptions and planning around them, I find that not only am I able to maintain my productivity, but I also preserve my peace of mind.

This approach isn’t just about avoiding frustration. It’s about harnessing the situation and maximizing what is within our control. Whether it’s rearranging tasks, shifting priorities, or simply taking a moment to pause and regroup, the ability to adapt is a powerful skill in our everyday lives. It keeps us moving forward, even when the weather—or life itself—doesn’t seem to be on our side.

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Day 1 Adventure in the Sunshine: Our Key West Journey from Nashville to Florida

What a day it was in the Sunshine State! As expected, Florida welcomed us with its blazing sun, a stark contrast to the cool farewell we’d just received from Nashville. As soon as we landed, Brian transformed into a window gawker, fascinated by Florida yet a newbie to the quirky charms of Key West. Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but play contortionist, leaning over to sneak a peek at the sprawling marshlands below—my first glimpse of the place!

Our adventure truly began in the thrilling world of baggage claim. Thanks to the overhead bins playing Tetris without us, we checked our carry-on bags at no extra charge. Recalling our last escapade in October 2023, which was nearly thwarted by a pesky flight delay, I had brilliantly booked our rental car for two hours post-arrival, a stroke of logistical genius. Trekking through the airport to the car rental center, I unknowingly kicked off a mini-marathon, racking up about 4,000 steps.

The excitement was palpable as we approached our noble steed for the week—a Toyota Rav4. I’ve been curious about this famed chariot since its debut in the ’90s, and finally, I had the chance to captain it. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint; the ride was smoother than my attempts at local slang.

Our first major checkpoint was Key Largo, roughly 60 miles from Miami Airport. We weren’t in any rush, opting instead to absorb every moment and explore at our leisure. Brian, though slightly groggy from waking up two hours earlier than usual, was still keen on our early start—more time to play, after all!

Hunger struck unexpectedly soon, having only armed ourselves with airline cookies and coffee. A pit stop at a local grocery store saw us stock up on protein bars, water, and some hard-boiled eggs—perfect for my ongoing battle with the calorie counter.

Navigating Miami’s labyrinth of lanes was challenging, but once we hit Highway 1, we found our groove. The drive was nothing short of spectacular, with me practically buzzing with excitement while Brian, ever the zen master, cracked jokes that showed he was equally jazzed.

As we cruised along US Highway 1, the ocean vistas unfolded, bordered by houses painted in cheerful white, yellow, and blue hues—a vibrant nod to the island life. The thought of living by the sea, surrounded by such spirited colors and life, seemed almost too good to be true.

By 3 PM, we were checking into our resort, complete with its slice of sandy paradise and kayaking options. The beach was a hotspot for sun worshippers. Brian thought he heard roosters, which I initially missed, too engrossed by the ocean’s call. Later, I discovered the roaming chickens, amazed at my own obliviousness—it turns out that chickens are the real locals around here.

Our explorations led us to young fishermen along the mangrove-dotted shores. Out of curiosity, I asked about their catch, only to learn they were fishing for bait—a nostalgic nod to my days of virtual fishing in Sims 4.

Exploring the hidden gems where the mangroves meet the sea—a favorite spot for local fishermen.
Discover the pristine clarity of the ocean—a serene escape into nature’s pure embrace.

Dinner was an early affair at 5:30 PM, at a spot recommended by ChatGPT. While I leave the restaurant picking to ChatGPT, orchestrating trip details is my true calling. If I’m traveling solo, I’m all about a meticulous 15-minute schedule, which can drive Brian a bit nuts. 

Conversely, a vacation without a plan sends me into a spiral. Reflecting on our past trips—from the rigorously scheduled ghost towns in Oregon to an impromptu Grand Canyon escapade—I’ve realized that balance is key to keeping both of our stress levels in check.

At dinner, Brian dug into his tacos, and I delighted in a Greek salad topped with ahi tuna—a genuinely delicious meal. We carted our leftovers back to the hotel, where I diligently logged our day’s exploits and eats. Sticking to Nashville time, we made sure to rest up, with Brian succumbing to sleep almost instantly.

We’re off to Marathon tomorrow, but for now, it’s time to recharge for another day of Florida adventures!

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Stepping Up the Pace: My Journey to a Faster 5K

Written on Mar 5, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Sometimes, a day unfolds that’s just perfect for a run. That was the case yesterday when I tweaked my running routine a bit. I shortened the alert intervals to every quarter kilometer and ambitiously slashed my target pace by 10 seconds. Admittedly, I didn’t quite hit the new pace mark, but I still managed to outdo my speed from last week, which felt like a victory in itself. The frequent updates from my phone were surprisingly effective at keeping me motivated throughout.

I’ve recently set a new personal goal: I want to run a 5K faster than last year. My focus was merely on accumulating miles for a long time, so this shift toward speed has introduced some fresh challenges into my routine. It’s been tough, especially since I’ve struggled to consistently monitor my pace mid-run. However, a doctor of mine recommended the Asics running app, which has been a game changer.

The app is straightforward yet powerful. It nudges me every quarter kilometer if I need to catch up to my desired speed. This regular prompting has proven incredibly beneficial; it’s like having a personal coach in my ear, pushing me to dig deeper and pick up the pace. This kind of persistent encouragement will make all the difference as I work towards my goal.

I’m genuinely excited about this app’s potential to transform my running. As I continue using it, I’m eager to see how much faster I can get by the year’s end. With this tool, I’ll be able to look back and marvel at how much my pace has improved, thanks to a blend of technology and renewed personal commitment.

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Embracing the Capricious Skies: Running Through Tennessee’s Weather Shifts

Written on March 4, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Tennessee’s weather has been showing off its unpredictable side, swiftly transitioning from the cold that calls for gloves to the warmth that warrants shorts. This rapid change signals a move towards what’s likely to be an intensely hot period soon. It’s a fluctuation reminiscent of mountain climates, where the weather seems to dance on a whim. My musings today drift towards this erratic weather pattern and how it weaves into the fabric of our daily lives, particularly for those whose routines intersect with the great outdoors.

In my household, the weather dictates the pace. My wife opts for the cool embrace of early mornings for her runs, sidestepping the later heat. I, on the contrary, have a preference for running a bit later in the day, which means keeping a vigilant eye on the day’s weather forecast is paramount for me. This necessity to rise early without dawdling, especially on days earmarked for running, becomes even more pressing.

Adding another layer to this seasonal dance is the advent of Daylight Saving Time. This biannual clock adjustment, looming on the horizon, introduces its own set of challenges. My wife, susceptible to the shift, begins realigning her schedule about ten days in advance to soften the jolt to her circadian rhythm. She’s already easing into a new sleep schedule in anticipation, showcasing our small attempts to maintain harmony with time’s ebb and flow.

Despite several snowy days, Tennessee has been basking in unexpected warmth. After checking both the time and the weather forecast, I find my anxiety abating; I’ll still be ahead of the day’s full heat when I embark on my run. A part of me yearns for the spring weather to settle in for good this time.

Neither the whims of weather nor the shift in daylight saving time can deter me from my runs, yet their influence is undeniable. Just last week, Monday teased us with warmth, only for winter to reclaim its hold for the rest of the week. Adaptability is key—adjusting my running schedule and attire to match the day’s forecast becomes a ritual in its own right.

This dance with the elements reminds us of the ever-present need to remain flexible and responsive to our environment. Tennessee’s weather, with its sudden warmth and unexpected cold snaps, mirrors the unpredictability of life itself. Yet, in these shifts, we find rhythm and resilience, learning to move gracefully through the changing seasons.

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Rediscovering My Passion for Running: A Journey with Runkeeper

Written on March 3, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

After a brief hiatus of a few weeks, I finally laced up my running shoes again for a refreshing 10k run. This wasn’t just any run but my inaugural journey since I integrated a new virtual running companion into my routine—Runkeeper. Recommended by my nephrologist, the app was developed by Asics. Runkeeper has quickly proven to be an invaluable addition to my training arsenal, bringing a new level of engagement to my runs.

One of the standout features that I’ve come to appreciate about Runkeeper is its ability to provide me with audio cues regarding my pace at every half-kilometer mark. This small but significant detail has been a game-changer, encouraging me to dig deeper and push my limits further with each stride. The thought of tweaking the settings to receive these updates every quarter kilometer has crossed my mind. While I’m slightly wary of the potential annoyance from an increased frequency of alerts, curiosity is nudging me towards trying it to see how it might intensify my motivation.

Another aspect of Runkeeper that resonates with me is its ability to monitor my running shoes’ mileage. This feature serves as a poignant reminder of a valuable lesson from my wife: the importance of managing the lifespan of my running shoes. Wearing shoes past their prime diminishes their support and can harm my body. Thankfully, Runkeeper offers this tracking service without any added cost, embodying everything I desire in a running app—efficiency, practicality, and foresight.

Incorporating these features into my running regimen has ignited a newfound motivation, propelling me towards greater achievements. The aftermath of my recent 10k—the soreness in my legs and the general fatigue I’ve been feeling—is a testament to the effort and determination I poured into that run. Despite these temporary discomforts, the sense of accomplishment that enveloped me post-run was unparalleled. It was a vivid reminder of why I run—not just for the physical benefits but for each completed journey’s profound sense of fulfillment and pride.

In essence, Runkeeper has not just been a tool for tracking and improving my runs; it has rekindled my passion for running, inspiring me to continually challenge myself and strive for my personal best. The fitness journey is fraught with ups and downs, but with the right tools and a resilient spirit, every step is closer to achieving one’s goals.

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The Hillside Homeowner’s Guide to Procrastination and Lawn Mowing

Living on a hillside in Tennessee comes with its unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to lawn maintenance. With the unpredictable weather patterns and the constant battle against the clock, managing our lawn can sometimes feel like a strategic game. My personal struggle with procrastination often plays a pivotal role in this ongoing saga, making the task of lawn mowing a significant aspect of my weekly routine.

Each week, I dedicate one to two hours to mowing our lawn, a crucial task to keep the grass from becoming an unruly jungle. However, like many, I sometimes find myself looking for any excuse to escape this chore, especially when the motivation isn’t there. Yesterday was a prime example where the allure of procrastination won out over the necessity of lawn care.

The weather here doesn’t make this any easier. Our Tennessee springs are notorious for their fickleness – one day, it’s pleasantly warm, and the next, temperatures plummet by 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain becomes an all-too-frequent visitor, complicating my mowing schedule. The result? An often too-long lawn that demands immediate attention, lest it become unmanageable.

My wife often cites the mantra “Eat that frog,” advocating for tackling the most daunting tasks early to free the rest of the day from their looming presence. She finds solace in systematically checking off items from her to-do list. This practice ensures productivity and peace of mind. Her approach is one of discipline and foresight, qualities I admire yet struggle to embody fully due to my procrastinatory nature.

I combat my tendency to procrastinate by making specific promises to myself, setting firm deadlines, and recognizing the flexibility—or lack thereof—of my tasks. While I may push my duties to the eleventh hour, I rarely fail to accomplish them. However, this method has flaws, especially when unforeseen circumstances, like our unpredictable weather, come into play. My recent bout of procrastination has left me facing a dauntingly overgrown lawn, a consequence I now regret.

Our perspectives on procrastination diverge significantly. My wife detests it, prioritizing eliminating unwelcome tasks as early as possible. Conversely, I see some value in delaying certain tasks, likening it to the interest paid on borrowed time. This philosophy, however, has its pitfalls, as I’ve learned the hard way with lawn mowing. The longer the grass grows, the more arduous the task becomes—a tangible representation of the cost of procrastination.

As I gaze upon the weather forecast, hoping for a break in the rain to tend to my lawn, I reflect on the importance of planning and adaptability. External factors, such as weather, sometimes remind me of the limits of control over my schedule. This recent experience has instilled a newfound resolve to tackle lawn mowing head-on, without delay, in the coming weeks.

Living on a hillside in Tennessee has taught me more than just about lawn care; it’s a lesson in time management, the pitfalls of procrastination, and the value of early action. As I look ahead, I’m reminded of the importance of embracing these challenges, knowing well that even the steepest of hills can be easily managed with a bit of foresight and discipline.

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The Whimsical Weather of Tennessee: A Lawn Care Conundrum

Written on February 29, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

In the unique climate of Tennessee, nestled in the southern reaches of the Midwest, residents navigate the peculiarities of both sweltering, humid summers and brisk winters. As someone living here, I constantly juggle between the extremes. My wife often remarks that it’s nothing compared to the Canadian cold, but still, our winters carry a chill that can’t be ignored. Interestingly, winter is a flexible term here, with unexpectedly warm days popping up even in the heart of what should traditionally be our coldest months. This inconsistency brings challenges, especially when maintaining a lush, healthy lawn.

On this particular day, the weather whims have played their cards again. Just recently, we experienced a spell of warmth that prompted our lawn to spring to life, emboldened enough to require its first trim of the year—despite it still being February. The plan was set for today to embark on the annual ritual of the year’s first mow, yet the weather had other plans. A sudden drop in temperature has made the task less inviting, necessitating a coat for the venture outside. Living on a hill adds another complexity to lawn care, making mowing in a jacket seem almost a personal affront.

This internal debate might seem trivial to some, but it speaks to the larger unpredictability of life here. I find myself wrestling with the decision, leaning towards postponing the task. After all, why push me to mow in the cold when the afternoon promises a gentler warmth? This logic feels sound and justified even in the face of Tennessee’s erratic weather patterns. Waiting for the sun to climb higher seems prudent, offering the hope of a more agreeable temperature for outdoor chores.

With its sudden shifts and surprises, Tennessee’s weather requires a flexible approach to lawn care and many other aspects of daily life. Today’s dilemma over the timing of a simple task like mowing the lawn underscores the more prominent theme of adaptation. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best-laid plans must yield to the whims of nature. Here, where the seasons need help deciding their demeanor, patience and a willingness to adjust are invaluable traits. So, as I wait for the day to warm, I’m reminded of the unique charm of living in this part of the country. Despite the challenges, there’s beauty in the unpredictability, a reminder of nature’s dominion over our best intentions and schedules.