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Sometimes I just sit and think – and other times I just sit. But that doesn't get my bi-weekly message updated. I spent a lot of time over the holidays thinking about a New Year's message.

The main hindrance was all of the positive feedback I received after my holiday message. Something within struck a cord with many of my readers. How could I possibly outdo it? I felt a little like Seb Coe. He retired from running in his mid thirties after realizing that no matter how hard he tried he was never going to get any better.

Don't get excited! I'm not crafting my retirement speech – yet. I just have to get used to the idea that I can't make each one better than the last. Any message would be better than none. I only provide one guarantee about this one – it is neither profound nor inspirational – only factual.

One of my favorite reporters e-mailed me the other day asking for my input on a story about resolutions. I admit to not having responded because New Year's resolutions aren't my thing. In 52 years I only remember one. A few years back I decided to run everyday for a year. I even started at midnight and ran a sub-zero two-miler. Too bad I got sick and never made it through the first month.

As Thomas Jefferson once said, “The time to fix the roof is when the sun shines.” I tend to make my resolutions when I think of them. Although I am constantly repairing the roof, very seldom does the inspiration hit me on New Year's Eve.

I hope everyone out there had an enjoyable holiday. Mine was! The schedule allowed us some down time so Arlene and I traveled to Washington DC to visit Matthew and Emily. The weather was warm and I ran every day. Friday I ran to and through the National Zoo, stopping off to see the pandas etc. Saturday morning was the best. I ran the mall. Starting at the sculpture garden I went past the Washington Monument, past the World War 2 monument and along the reflecting pool to the Lincoln Memorial. On the way back I stopped for a solemn walk through the Vietnam Memorial before meeting back up with Arlene for the trip back. Although I didn't have the area to myself, it was pretty empty. The 71-degree weather made it even better. I could see doing this every year.

I also toured Georgetown University. When I entered their trophy room I was reminded of GT's tremendous track and field/cross country tradition. I was also saddened that they no longer have an outdoor track. It has been removed to make room for an all-weather field. I had run there in 1973 (more appropriately jumped) at the Georgetown Relays. Even more memorable was the fact that my UConn coach Bob Kennedy asked me if I wanted to go to the morning session to watch some running events. What he neglected to mention was that the scheduled event was the 4 X 3-mile. I can still picture him chuckling about getting a high jumper to watch an event that lasted nearly an hour.

For those who can't get to the capital, instead I suggest a visit to the DeCordova Museum. Mondays you can tour the outdoor exhibits for free.  

Today was the first day back at school but the weather was perfect for practice. The snow was gone off the track and everyone was flying. I also got a chance to run 4+ miles with Dave Doran. With daughter Shannon down at GT, we had plenty to discuss while putting in some miles.

Indoor track has cut back on my computer time, but here are some of the coming attractions.

#1. My year in review

#2. Northrunning looks at 10 popular sayings and how they relate to track

#3. Hockomock League preview

and best of all – coming soon – not to be ignored

#4. The northrunning.com sponsored ST Award categories will be announced before the end of the month. This may be the most interactive yet and at least one lucky reader will win an “Advisory Board” key chain for the most original category.

Finally, a New Year's challenge.

Let's make 2005 a memorable track and field year!