I have a lot of diet information, so I am splitting this session into two parts. I have been reading Michael Matthews’ book Bigger, Leaner, Stronger, and decided to start having small meals before and after workouts to promote muscle synthesis. The thing I like about this book the most is that almost every assertion, other than those based on the author’s own experience, is supported by peer-reviewed research. All of this is extremely well-documented. There are over 30 pages of endnotes and bibliography. The pre-and post-workout meals are the latest change in my diet plan, and they usually fit into my six-meals-per-day routine.

I pass a few people speaking Spanish today. When I pass people on the trail who are speaking Spanish, I generally try to greet them in Spanish. It shows a welcoming attitude I think. But I only do this with adults. Children are different for two reasons. The first is that for most children who live in this area, in this country, English is their first language, even if they were born in a place where Spanish is the primary language. They learn fast and have to adapt to school or church, or wherever they encounter other children and adults, almost all of whom are speaking English. The second reason is that for children of Hispanic immigrants, Spanish is spoken at home, or with their family, but almost nowhere else. So to speak Spanish with a stranger is potentially confusing and possibly even frightening. It’s a language of familiarity to them.

One of the things I notice about this trail today is that everything changes, even though the place is the same. Every day things look a little different. I prefer this, being outside, to being in a gym for this reason. It’s just more interesting.

Weight (change since Jan 2018): 209 (-65)
Workout time: ? Minutes (not measured)
Total Distance (total since Nov 2017): ? Miles (131.47)
Steps: 13,609
Goals: (1) Run 10.5 miles in one day by 11/18/18 (2) Lose 100lbs by 12/25/18