Category: Brian’s Journey

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Unexpected Connections on a Shortened Run

Written September 21, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Today, I ran shorter than usual. Earlier in the week, I was able to run at a faster pace, so I decided to scale down my 10k run to 5k. This also worked out with my wife and I’s other plans. We planned to shop for new running shoes since both of ours had exceeded their mileage. Running on worn-out shoes increases the risk of injury, so it was time for replacements.

During the day, I had a pleasant surprise—a neighbor I hadn’t met before came over to introduce herself. She lives in a house with a garden my wife has always admired, so I was happy to finally learn her name. My wife often sees her while running during the summer when the neighbor is out tending to her plants. Her garden really is one of the prettiest in the area.

She mentioned that bunnies had been nibbling on her plants, but they had since disappeared, likely due to a nearby fox. My wife had mentioned spotting a fox recently, though she wasn’t sure at the time, as it darted off quickly behind a house. It made her a little sad when I told her about the missing bunnies. She knows it’s just part of the food chain but enjoys seeing the rabbits around. Once, she even witnessed an owl hunting one, which left her quite upset. Early runs let you witness a lot of unique wildlife moments. On the other hand, I usually run a bit later, so I miss out on some of those events.

There are always people walking or running in our neighborhood. Most are friendly and enjoy striking up a conversation mid-run. Since moving to Nashville, I’ve met a lot of our neighbors this way. My wife runs early in the mornings and often sees familiar faces, but she doesn’t stop chatting much since she likes to start her workday early.

Meeting new people is always a good thing, and it’s nice to know more of our neighbors. Unfortunately, I forgot to pause my running app while talking, so it recorded the time I spent standing still at my average speed. Despite that, the app still saved the times, and the recorded run wasn’t completely off. At the end of the day, the numbers didn’t matter too much—what’s important is that I got in my exercise and got to know another neighbor, which is something I value in its own way.

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This Is How I Overcame The Aftereffect of Brain Stroke

Written September 18, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

I saw my running pace has improved significantly in the last couple of days, and I’m thrilled about the results. The temperature has dropped considerably compared to a few weeks ago. The cooler weather has made a noticeable difference to my running as I found it easier to push myself further. I’ve recently achieved my target pace of below 10 minutes per kilometer, and today, I hit a new personal best for my 5k time.

It’s hard to believe how far I’ve come since my brain stroke in 2015. Back then, my brain struggled to send signals to my legs, even though I remembered exactly how to walk or run. It felt like typing on a disconnected keyboard—no matter what I did, there was no response. The doctors explained that my neural pathway for walking or running had completely vanished. I had to relearn everything from scratch, starting with weeks of rehabilitation just to take a few steps.

Those early months were challenging. Learning to walk without a walker or any support took a tremendous amount of effort and time. I faced another hurdle at work, where my brain couldn’t filter out unnecessary information, making it difficult to focus. Then, I truly understood the intricate abilities we take for granted.

Determined not to give up, my wife and I began walking every day, although I had to rest frequently just to cover 1.5 miles. Then, one day, I told her I wanted to learn how to run. She was understandably concerned at first because the running could strain my kidneys. I was serious about it. I started with my old running shoes, but it wasn’t really running—more like fast walking, with a lot of stumbling. After a month of trying, my wife suggested I get a good pair of running shoes. That small change made a huge difference, making each step feel lighter.

To track my progress, she set up an Excel sheet where I could log my runs, and she even got me the Zombie Run app to add some excitement to my routine. It turned my running into an adventure rather than a chore.

It took years for me to see the full extent of my progress. When we moved to Tennessee in 2018, my mother noticed the muscle definition in my calves. When I lost my mobility after my stroke, I had lost so much muscle mass in the months following my stroke that it felt like a victory to have someone point out my runner’s legs. My endurance had also increased, allowing me to tackle more tasks without feeling exhausted. I felt genuinely proud of myself for the first time in a long while.

After achieving my distance goal last year, I decided to focus more on improving my pace. It added extra challenges as I had to monitor my pace during my run. I get tired very quickly because of my kidney, so I have to know when to stop pushing myself. My running suffers during summer due to its heat. Despite a few setbacks along the way, I kept moving forward. My goal is to set a new best at least once a week, and I’ve been getting multiple of my fastest records in rows. Now, I find myself wondering how many personal records I can possibly create.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but every small victory feels monumental. And with each run, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come—from relearning to walk to becoming someone who now sets running records. It’s a journey that’s as much about perseverance as it is about running.

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The Adventure of Deck Painting

Written September 15, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

The more we worked on this project, the more stripping the paint off our deck turned out to be a much bigger job than we had anticipated. When we began removing the paint, I discovered several layers of old paint underneath. It made me wonder if the wood beneath was still in good condition or had started to rot. My wife meticulously inspected each deckboard to check for soft spots. We found one completely rotten board hidden beneath all the paint.

She reminded me that our deck is over twenty years old, so it’s not surprising that it’s showing its age. She’s already considering replacing it with PVC boards, but that’s a project for the future. We’re trying to maintain it as best we can. The deck stairs also need repairs, so we’re budgeting to replace the whole thing in the next five years.

Because of her busy schedule, I’ve taken on most of the paint-stripping work, tackling it bit by bit. This is our first time attempting a project like this, so we’ve been turning to YouTube and blogs for guidance. There is so much content in removing paint from the decking, and it’s pleasant to discover how much you can learn from the internet. My wife even bought some materials to patch up the deck, determined to prevent rot from setting in. We’re learning as we go, making plenty of mistakes, but we’re figuring things out one step at a time. My wife, in particular, seems to enjoy the challenge of finding solutions to these problems. She believes you can learn something valuable from every experience. She also sees no learning as a waste.

I’m just glad she’s happy. I’ve been listening to audiobooks while I work, trying to fit this project in between my other tasks. The weather finally seems to be cooperating, so I’m tackling a few boards each day, hoping the paint stripper works as well as we need it to. It’s a slow process, but I’m optimistic we’ll get it done and have our deck looking good again soon.

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How I’m Navigating My Running Journey with an Interval Pace App

Written September 14, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Using an interval pace app has been a game-changer for my running routine. It provides a detailed view of my performance, allowing me to see exactly how I run at any moment. But it’s also revealed a lot about the inconsistency of my pace, which, to be honest, often feels like a roller coaster ride.

For example, during my first 5 km, I might be a few seconds slower than my target, but then I speed up in the next 5 km. I run two 5 km loops to complete 10 km, and I expect to maintain a steady pace throughout. However, maintaining a consistent speed for each interval is a real challenge, given the hilly terrain around my neighborhood. Despite these fluctuations, I recently achieved my fastest time since I started using this app last year, which was a satisfying milestone.

Several factors contribute to these ups and downs in my running performance:

1. Weather Conditions:

The weather significantly impacts my runs. I find it much harder to keep up my pace on hot days. Extreme cold can also slow me down, and strong winds can feel like running against a wall. However, I’ve noticed a considerable improvement in my running pace over the last few weeks as the weather has cooled. The heat affects me the most, draining my energy quickly. Running in more excellent conditions makes me feel lighter and more energetic, allowing me to push my limits further.

2. Emotional State:

My emotional state plays a massive role in my running performance. For instance, I was determined to improve my pace today, so I pushed myself harder during the second 5 km. I’ve been focusing a lot on improving my pace this year, and it’s paying off compared to last year. But this heightened focus can sometimes lead to overexertion, and balancing my drive to improve with my body’s signals is crucial. On days when I feel less motivated or distracted, I notice my pace tends to drop. It’s a reminder that running is as much a mental challenge as a physical one.

3. Physical Condition:

My body’s condition is perhaps the most significant factor influencing my runs. With a compromised kidney, I often feel drained, making it challenging to maintain a consistent schedule. I’ve set a rigid routine for my sleep and wake-up times to maximize my energy levels, but there are still days when fatigue takes over. Running low on energy can be tricky, but I’ve committed to my routine regardless of how I feel.

Muscle recovery is another challenge. Because I need to limit my protein intake, building and maintaining muscle is difficult, even with regular exercise. I’ve noticed that my muscles don’t recover as quickly, and I must be cautious not to overtrain. For example, I started my run today with a sore left calf muscle. I managed to complete my 10 km, but I could feel the strain more acutely afterward, especially when climbing stairs. This experience reminded me that while it’s essential to push myself, I also need to be mindful of my body’s signals to avoid injury.

Finding Balance and Perspective:

Setting a pace goal this year has been a significant step forward. Focusing on distance is easier because I can adjust my effort according to how I feel on any given day. But with pace, there’s an added layer of challenge that requires more consistency and effort. There are good days when I feel strong and manage to meet my goals, but there are also days when my body just doesn’t cooperate. It can be frustrating when I don’t see the progress I aim for, especially when my physical condition affects my performance.

My wife often reminds me to stay caught up in the daily results and to focus instead on the long-term trends. While the accessible version of my app doesn’t track data over multiple years, I can still see that my pace has been gradually improving since I started using it. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t always visible in the short term but can be seen over the weeks and months. I’m learning to be patient with myself and to celebrate the small victories along the way, knowing that each step, no matter how small, brings me closer to my goal.

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An Interesting Early Autumn Yard Tale Of Unspoken Tree

Written Septermber 10, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

It’s only early September, but our lawn is covered in leaves. The reason behind this premature leaf fall is two trees in front of our house. The larger one, a towering presence on our neighbor’s property, overshadows the smaller tree on ours. When we had an arborist inspect a tree at the back of our house, he informed us that the smaller tree on our property was struggling. Its health is declining due to competition from its larger counterpart next door. I suspect there’s a silent battle for resources happening beneath the surface. Unfortunately, our tree is on the losing side.

It’s fascinating to think about how trees, which appear so still and tranquil, constantly struggle for survival. We don’t often consider what goes on underground, where their roots stretch out in search of water and nutrients. Our smaller tree, likely overshadowed and outcompeted by the larger one, shows signs of stress. It frequently sheds branches during strong winds, even though it looks healthy on the surface. It also seems to lose more leaves than the bigger tree, which is surprising given their relative sizes.

This year, both trees are shedding their leaves much earlier than usual. The lack of rainfall might be a contributing factor. Lawns around the neighborhood appear to be suffering, looking patchy and dry. It starkly contrasts with when we first moved to Nashville from Oregon in August 2018. We were struck by how lush and green everything was here. In Oregon, the dry summer season and water usage restrictions made it challenging to maintain a vibrant lawn. My wife, a lawn care expert in her own right, used to water our lawn sparingly but for extended periods to encourage more profound root growth. Having lived in the Waterloo region of Ontario, Canada, where water restrictions were common, she was well-practiced in keeping grass healthy with minimal resources.

Maintaining our yard has become more complicated over the years. With the early leaf fall this season, I’ve found myself transitioning seamlessly from mowing the lawn to collecting leaves. Fortunately, it’s been dry for the past week, making vacuuming the leaves much easier. Today, I spent a few hours on this task, stopping only when our water delivery arrived.

The cooler temperatures have been noticeable lately. The crispness in the air signals that autumn is just around the corner. It’s a reminder of how quickly seasons change and how each one brings its own set of challenges and rewards. Ever since my brain stroke, managing these chores has become more challenging. I’ve had to learn to pace, take breaks when needed, and not overexert myself.

Despite the extra work, there’s something satisfying about yard work—mowing the lawn, collecting leaves, or tending to the garden. It connects you to the changing seasons in a tangible way. I’m looking forward to the colors of autumn, even though it means more leaves to rake. Soon enough, my yard work will halt as winter sets in. At least we won’t have to worry about shoveling snow daily like in other parts of the country. For now, I’ll enjoy the last of the warmer days, the occasional leaf collection, and the beauty of this early taste of autumn.

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Embracing Fall and DIY Adventures

Written September 8, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Fall has officially arrived, bringing a welcome reprieve from the summer heatwaves we endured. Last night, the temperature dipped below 60 degrees, and it was still brisk when I woke up. To make the most of the cooler air, we’ve been keeping the windows open at night, leaving the house feeling chilly in the mornings. Today, I reached for my robe and slippers as I started my day, enjoying the cozy feeling of the house transitioning into the new season.

With cooler weather, we’ve focused on some long-overdue home improvement projects. One of these is our deck, which took a bit of a beating during the summer. We’ve been scraping and sanding, restoring it to its former glory. I plan to spend an hour on this chore once it’s warm enough to work outside comfortably. I’ll put on my audiobook and lose myself in the rhythm of the work.

My wife, who is an early riser, was already out on the deck when I joined her. Her day typically starts at 5:30 AM, regardless of whether it’s a weekday or the weekend. She had been out there for a couple of hours, diligently sanding away. Although she’s expressed some frustration with the repetitive nature of the task, she’s also found a silver lining in learning new skills. This is her first time tackling such a hands-on project; her enthusiasm is contagious. She’s discovering the satisfaction of repairing something yourself and learning the ins and outs of a task you’ve never done before.

It’s this desire to learn and experience new things that really defines her. She’s an avid reader, currently engrossed in Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, a book she finds deeply thought-provoking. Yet, she balances her love of reading with a drive to get out of her comfort zone. Whether repairing the deck or trying a new recipe, she’s always eager to explore and grow. For her, this deck project isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about embracing a new challenge and the satisfaction of mastering it.

As for me, I’m enjoying the process of working on the deck together. We’ve taken on a number of home renovation and maintenance projects over the years. While we’re far from professionals, each project has been a learning experience. Something is fulfilling about tackling these tasks as a team, figuring things out together, and seeing the tangible results of our efforts. It’s a reminder that even the most mundane chores can be an opportunity for growth and connection.

After we wrap up work on the deck, I’ll head into the kitchen to prepare the week’s pastry bites and get things in order before we make our favorite homemade pizza. With the cooler weather settling in, I’m also adjusting my running routine. I’ll switch to long sleeves for my morning runs, though it’s not quite cold enough for a jacket and gloves. Those crisp, frosty mornings aren’t far off, especially now that I’ve shifted to running before breakfast instead of afterward.

There’s something special about this time of year—the way the air feels, the shift in daily routines, and the cozy indoor activities that start to take center stage. It’s a time for reflection, new projects, and savoring the small joys, whether working on home improvements or enjoying the kitchen’s warmth. Fall is here, and with it comes a sense of renewal and the promise of new experiences.

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Tackling the Deck and Yard: Balancing Big Projects with Everyday Tasks

Written September 7, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Careful organization is essential to avoid feeling overwhelmed when we have numerous tasks. I’m tackling an additional project to refinish our deck, which has turned into a more significant undertaking than expected. We knew the deck had been painted, but a closer inspection—by poking and peeling off the paint—revealed that repairs were needed before we could even begin sanding. It’s possible that some parts of the wood were already rotting when it was painted. Our deck was likely built around the same time as our house, making it approximately 20-25 years old. While we aim to complete the repairs within the next five years, we’re committed to starting the process now to prevent further damage.

Initially, we thought we could sand off the paint and apply a fresh coat, but as we examined it closely, it became clear that some boards needed to be replaced. It’s frustrating to realize how much work is involved, but the deck is essential to our outdoor space. We want to use our deck for relaxing evenings, so maintaining the deck is crucial. We don’t want to put off the repairs too long, as delaying could lead to more severe damage and costlier repairs.

In addition to the deck, my wife is planning a garden redesign for the next decade, which will be another significant project. She has a vision of creating a beautiful and functional space with areas for growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Thinking about the possibilities is exciting, but we must balance these long-term plans with our immediate needs. The focus is on the deck, but the garden will soon demand our attention.

Although deck repair and refinishing will be a multi-year endeavor, my wife is juggling a full-time job setting up our business. She plans to work on the deck during the week and take additional time off to push the repairs forward. This project can be quite time-sensitive, especially with the changing weather. We must complete the sanding and apply the stain before the colder, wetter months arrive. That’s why I’ve decided to focus on getting as much done as possible in the coming weeks.

While managing these projects, I also need to keep up with my running routine and regular yard maintenance. With the grass growth slowing down, mowing is less frequent, but the trees are dropping leaves at an increasing rate due to the lack of rain. If I don’t stay on top of the leaves, they’ll soon cover the lawn like a thick carpet, making it more challenging to clean up later. Staying active with running is essential for me, not just for fitness but also for mental well-being, so I need to balance my time effectively.

Next week is shaping up to be quite busy. The leaves have piled up enough to require vacuuming, and the deck project has moved on to the sanding stage. I must divide my time between these two tasks on Tuesday and Thursday. I aim to see how much of the leaves I can collect in an hour, allowing me to devote the rest of my time to sanding the deck. I hope to progress on both fronts with careful planning without feeling overwhelmed.

Balancing these projects with our daily responsibilities requires careful scheduling and prioritization. It’s easy to get bogged down in the details. Still, we can tackle each task individually by breaking the work into manageable steps. Whether repairing the deck or keeping the yard in order, staying organized and focused will help us achieve our goals.

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Celebrating Progress On Hitting My Running Pace

Written Septermber 6, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Today brought some good news—my efforts have finally paid off. During my run, I achieved the pace I’ve been aiming for as part of my end-of-year goal. This achievement is a significant milestone for me, and it feels incredible to see my progress. Because of this success, I’ve set a new rule for myself: for each run, I will reduce my pace time by 5 seconds. The challenge I’ve given myself is to beat this reduced pace twice in a row, with no more than two failures in between. Once I accomplish that, I’ll lock in my end-of-year pace goal at the new speed.

One thing I’ve come to realize is how different it feels to focus on pace rather than just distance. Initially, my running goals were all about how far I could go. But now, I’ve become more conscious of the nuances involved in pacing myself, and it’s an entirely different experience. Running pace can fluctuate based on many factors I hadn’t considered before. For example, external temperature can give me a boost or slow me down considerably. Cooler days tend to energize me, while hotter days can make running feel like an uphill battle. Similarly, wind and weather conditions greatly influence how well I perform. A strong headwind can be exhausting, while a nice tailwind makes me feel like flying.

My physical condition is another critical factor. One day, I might feel full of energy and ready to tackle my run, while the next day, my body might feel heavy, making it harder to keep a steady pace. These variables make running a more dynamic challenge than I initially anticipated, and it has taught me to be flexible with my expectations.

In addition to pacing, I’ve also learned the importance of taking care of my body during this journey. Overexertion is a real risk, especially when the weather is extreme. Running too long in the blazing summer heat can be dangerous, mainly if I run low on water. I must constantly monitor hydration, as it can make or break a good run. Additionally, I’ve realized that I need to prioritize rest when my muscles are sore or not recovering properly. Pushing through without adequate recovery could lead to injuries or setbacks, which I want to avoid.

I also have specific dietary restrictions that make recovery more challenging. Since I have limits on my protein intake, I have to be careful not to lose muscle through overexertion. Muscle loss is a real concern for me, so I’m mindful of balancing my exercise with the nutrients my body needs to repair and grow. Monitoring my calorie intake is another part of the process. I need to fuel my body for these runs without going overboard. Through it all, I remind myself I’m running to improve and strengthen my body—not harm it. This is a promise I made to myself when I first started running, and it’s something I hold onto as I continue to progress.

My running journey began after I lost mobility due to a brain stroke. It was a tough time, but after several months of rehabilitation, I was able to walk again. Eventually, I worked my way up to running, a huge victory. Now, I’m running and pushing myself to get faster. While it’s still a struggle to improve my speed, I’m determined to keep going, step by step.

Today, I want to celebrate my success. It’s easy to get caught up in the next goal, the next challenge, but it’s essential to take a moment to appreciate how far I’ve come. I’m thrilled with how today’s run went, and it serves as a reminder that progress is possible, no matter how difficult the journey may seem.

I look forward to what comes next and am excited to see where this running journey takes me.

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Staying Positive on My Running Journey: Celebrating Small Wins

Written September 4, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Sometimes, reaching a target requires more effort than expected. Recently, I’ve been working diligently to increase my running pace, aiming to hit my 5km goal. I do not set unrealistic expectations for myself, but I believe in challenging my limits with monthly targets. I strive to improve each month, even by a small margin. Progress keeps me motivated and focused on my goals, no matter how incremental.

Today, I came within 5 seconds of my target pace, but I’m still falling short of where I want to be. Part of the struggle may be that I haven’t fully recovered from last weekend’s intense deck-building project. That physical exertion and my running routine have taken a toll on my body. Perhaps I’m pushing too hard. With compromised kidneys, my energy levels tend to dip quickly, and it doesn’t help that I’ve been struggling to maintain my protein intake. This lack of proper nutrition impacts my stamina and overall performance.

My wife often reminds me to ease up on myself and not let the numbers be a source of frustration. She’s right when she says that getting hung up on disappointing results can trigger people to lose motivation and give up. It’s easy to fall into the trap of obsessing over numbers and feeling like you’re not progressing fast enough. But I try not to rely on motivation alone, as it can be fleeting. I choose to look at it differently: being just 5 seconds off means I’m close, and with a little more effort, I can achieve that target on my next run.

Chasing after goals can be challenging, especially when progress feels slow or stagnant. There are moments when doubt creeps in, and I start questioning how long it will take to see the improvements I want. How much longer will my slow improvement continue? When those thoughts arise, I remind myself to shift my perspective and review my progress over a longer timeframe. In doing so, I can see that my pace is gradually improving. Although it’s not happening as quickly as I’d like, the improvement is there, and that’s what matters.

I’ve learned there’s no need for drastic course corrections. What I need is patience and persistence. My wife calls that discipline—and I couldn’t agree more. Discipline keeps me lacing up my shoes and heading out the door, even when the numbers aren’t where I want them to be. It’s about trusting the process and believing that consistent effort will eventually yield the results I’m aiming for.

While my running hasn’t been as smooth lately, I’m noticing improvements in other areas of my fitness journey. I’ve started incorporating daily stretching into my routine, and the results have been remarkable. My flexibility has increased dramatically compared to a month ago. I’m now able to perform stretches that were previously challenging for me. It’s a reminder that progress comes in many forms, even if it’s not always where we expect it.

Ultimately, it’s not just about reaching a specific pace or achieving a particular milestone. It’s about the overall journey of self-improvement, pushing through setbacks, and celebrating the small victories. Whether it’s a faster run or greater flexibility, every step forward counts. And with that mindset, I’ll keep moving forward, one run at a time.

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The Secrets to Improve in Running is Recovery and Embracing Your Strength

Written September 2, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Recently, I’ve noticed that my body hasn’t been recovering as well as I’d like. Over the past few days, I’ve been pushing myself hard, not just with running but also with yard work, and it’s starting to show. One of the more challenging aspects of managing my kidney condition is how it impacts muscle repair. My body doesn’t bounce back as quickly, and the restrictions on my diet certainly play a role. I’m limited in what I can eat, affecting my body’s healing ability. Surprisingly, I’ve adapted pretty well to the dietary limitations—they don’t frustrate me much anymore. But when I push my physical limits, I feel the consequences.

This year, I’ve consciously tried to improve my running pace. I’ve been running for several years, and until last year, I focused on completing 10 km runs. I enjoyed the challenge of reaching that distance, but now I’m shifting my focus. It’s not just about running far anymore; I want to run faster. Since we live in a hilly area, my runs always begin with a significant challenge—a 17-meter elevation gain immediately. I know some runners actively seek out hills for training, but for me, it’s just the reality of running in my neighborhood. There’s no way around it. In a way, I guess we’re fortunate. Others come here specifically to train on hills, but it’s simply part of the landscape for us. Every run starts with a climb, whether I like it or not.

This morning, I was disappointed with my pace. I’ve developed a habit of analyzing my runs and trying to figure out what factors might be impacting my performance. Was it the terrain? Was I more fatigued than I realized? There’s always something to consider. My runner wife often reminds me that discipline is more important than constantly worrying about numbers. She says running is unpredictable, and there can be many factors—weather, how well I’ve slept, stress levels, and even the amount of yard work I’ve done the day before. What matters most is that I don’t give up.

And she’s right. The important thing is that I keep running. No matter what, I’m putting in the effort, ultimately leading to improvement. While it’s easy to get fixated on pace, I know I’ve worked hard, and that’s where the real value lies. The numbers will eventually catch up to the effort. Improvement might come slower than I’d like, and it might not always be smooth. There will be setbacks, and some days will feel like I’m running through mud. But I know I’ll see progress as long as I keep putting one foot before the other.

The pace won’t improve as quickly as I’d hoped, and I may have more days where recovery feels frustratingly slow. But I’m learning that it’s okay. It’s part of the journey. And with consistency, I’ll get there—step by step, day by day.