AND now for something completely different

Haven't touched python in quite some time now. Maybe I'll return to it sometime later. Just got my big toe stuck under the wheel of my chair. Stuck like a chinese fingertrap. Ouch.

Anyway;

I started running 3 weeks ago in the C25K plan (couch to 5k). Plan can be found at www.c25k.com . Currently on my week 3 break, and ready to start week 4 on Sunday after 2 days of rest. Week 3 was the most arduous yet (naturally), given the hilly terrain around my house and the requirement of jogging for 3 minute stretches. 3 whole minutes. Hoo-boy I am out of shape.

Also, I've been sporting Vibram Fivefingers KSO "shoes" for the entirety of the program, and the adjustments of barefoot running technique are really starting to strain my calves and achilles tendons. Got my first calf cramp two days ago, but today was better; the muscles are building to accommodate. The first couple weeks I had a bit of a problem with forefoot pain since the balls of my feet are unused to hitting the asphalt; the pain has since disappeared for the most part now that I'm used to running in this manner. For those of you unfamiliar with Vibram Fivefingers KSO's, here's a picture:
They are really fantastic shoes and I cannot recommend them enough. For any activity. Except ballroom dancing.

I'm hesitantly looking forward to week 4's runs:

Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:

• Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
• Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
• Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
• Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes)
• Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
• Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
• Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)

I'll actually be jogging for a somewhat significant distance in my estimation, since I run by time rather than distance (and I jog quite a bit faster than 10 min. per mile.) However, it's times like these that I wish the first quarter mile wasn't a 7.5 % grade uphill. (approx. 125 feet in total elevation.) I guess it adds to a good workout though, so I can't complain about the benefits.

Will post updates later on.