Good Morning Guys and Gals!!!

I'm sure that you all know that this is the time for New Year's Resolutions. I've never had much luck with NYR.....I begin with the best of intentions, but then I realize that there are always problems. For instance..........

Ray's list of NYR for 2004.

NYR # 1: This year, I will stop and smell the roses during my training runs! -----------Problem: When you are training at 11 minutes per mile...you are almost stopped anyway. You can smell roses, tulips or anything else for that matter.

NYR # 2: I think I will start at least one race at the back of the pack! -----------Problem: When your 5K times are around 30 minutes...you are always at the back of the pack. When I approach the starting line....other runners take one look at me and they start walking forward.

NYR # 3: Within your local running club or group, pick out the slowest runner and run with him or her a few times this year. ----------Problem: In the Millen Milers...I am the slowest runner. My only hope of keeping Eddie, Rob and Jim back with me is to continue telling those great stories...right guys?

NYR # 4: At my age, maybe I should buy new shoes more often to help me avoid running related injuries! ----------Problem: Shoe experts recommend that we change shoes at least every 500 miles...at that rate...I won't be due a new pair until March 6, 2005.

NYR # 5: Don't make any New Year's Resolutions next year! -----------Problem: The way my memory is fading...I will have forgotten this list by tonight...there is no way I'll remember this promise until December 31st.

I hope you have better luck with your NYR than I do!!!!

For 2004 I hope all of your hills are down, the wind is always at your back, and race directors don't forget to order XXL t-shirts for us big guys!!!

Happy New Year and Best Wishes for a great 2004!!!!!

Ray