Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving in Wisconsin (+5 Tips for Dashing to the Bushes)

Currently, I'm in the chaotic midst of running around like a turkey with its head cut off (ouch, that was pretty bad), getting ready to fly to Wisconsin tomorrow to celebrate Thanksgiving with my in laws. The timing couldn't be worse with all my big, new projects: AHA fellowship, moving, and the commencement of my IMAZ Ironman training plan. But it's always that way, isn't it?

Wisconsin will be delightfully freezing. Mid 30s for the high with a 10-degree wind chill. Looks like there is a chance of some flurries. My in-laws live on a bona-fide dairy farm, which is always fun to visit. However, I am always freezing this time of year (the thermostat is set to 55)! I'm bringing nothing but warm clothes and a space heater. Luckily, my in-laws are amazing people with big hearts and happy-go-lucky personalities (not to mention the awesome comfort food!) so it's always a joy to spend time with them.

Jason and I are running the Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 10K (Berbee Derby http://www.berbeederby.com/) in Madison. Nothing better than a goold, old-fashioned turkey trot. Will you do one this year? I love this one, in particular because it's always freezing. What better motivation for a 10K PR than 20 degree weather and numb fingers?

As far as other workouts, I have already located a gym with a pool and spinning bikes and planned out my runs so I'm good to go. IMAZ training will continue, Thanksgiving travel or no!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! I hope yours is filled with family, friends, laughter, good food, and a cozy fire.

I leave you with this (not for the faint of heart):

5 Tips for Dashing to the Bush:
(we've all been there; if you haven't just wait. You're on a run and suddenly, you have to go. And it won't wait. Here's what to do.)
1. Don't wait.
Let me tell you, I've been there more than once. It's not going to wait for you. Delaying the urge is just inviting torture and an eventual desire for a diaper. You will feel SO much better if you just go.
2. Always carry Kleenex.
A no brainer--of course, I always forget. Leaves will do, in a pinch. Just make ABSOLUTELY sure you're not using poison ivy or poison oak or you're in for a world of pain.
3. Locate the nearest bathroom, Port-a-Potty or bush.
In that order. If no bushes, look for a big rock. It's also best if you have a friend who can stand guard.
4. Once you have found a good spot, make sure you cannot be easily seen or heard, if possible.
Take a good look around. This will prevent embarrassment and possible arrest.
5. Avoid thorns and prickly bushes.
Alas, I didn't do this on my Sunday run and ended up with nasty raw gashes on my derriere.

11 comments:

Tammy said...

Happy travels my friend! No Turkey Trot here, but I am doing a Half-Mary on Sunday - does that count?

RunBubbaRun said...

Have a Happy Turkey day.

Have fun in Wisconsin. It will be cold but running the 10k should get you warmed up..

ps. add to the list, watch for poisen IVY as well.

Benson said...

Sounds like sconny land will be fun.

I was really young and used a poison ivy leaf to wipe...2 weeks of misery.
Also, watch out for bees nests at base of tree. 3 stings and I was out of there.

Lisa said...

raw derriere gashes? bummer!

Anonymous said...

what area of WI? My relatives are dairy farmers as well in Cambria area

Unknown said...

"Leaves will do, in a pinch." Heehee! :)

I grew up in Madison. Fun town to visit (my mom still lives there) but I am so glad I live on the west coast now.

Ryan D said...

what a great post!

VeganHeartDoc said...

I can definitely relate to the potty hints, being a triathlete with a small bladder. Personally, I'd rather pee in a secluded bush than brave a smelly port-o-potty.

Unknown said...

Hope you're having a fantastic trip and looking forward to following along as you train for IM.

Fizzgig said...

hope your turkey day was fantastic! Why is it not suprising that you did a run? lol

Ronald said...
This comment has been removed by the author.