Terrorism, Kidnapping, and Civil Unrest

Mt. Elbrus currently offers a bit too much adventure.

Reflecting

Here’s a new documentary about the guide company I used in Tanzania last year.  They’re the best. Next spring would be a great time to go if you haven’t summited Kilimanjaro yet.  The video gives a good sense for the mountain generally and the Tusker Trail climbing company in particular.  In worse mountain news… it doesn’t look like I’m getting to Mt. Elbrus anytime soon.  I’ve been strongly discouraged by the US State Department from visiting the North Caucasus due to terrorism, kidnapping, and risk of civil unrest.  Just today they ratcheted up the warning:

The U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens to depart the country and transportation options may suddenly become even more limited.

Hopefully things will improve next year so I can check it off my list.  This is the second time politics have intervened in travel plans (first was an indefinite delay in our Began Temple Marathon until things smooth over in central Myanmar).

Training

The CrossFit Open is almost here!  If you have not yet gotten anything for your Valentine, then hook them up with a surprise registration which is far better than flowers or jewelry.  For only $20 you can show them that you are committed to making them better. 

This morning’s white board:

Every minute on the minute for 24 minutes --

1. 4 Back Squats as heavy as possible

2. 8 Wall Ball 30 lbs.

3. 100 ft Farmer’s Carry as heavy as possible

4. Rest

Next run:

Fueling

Today’s lunch was a strip steak from my favorite meat purveyor Pat LaFrieda; the 45 days dry aged version is currently 30% off.  Still pricey but worth every $0.01. 

Supplementing

Few people get enough magnesium. The standard American diet contains about 50% of the optimal amount of over 400 mgs for men and over 300 mgs for women.  My kids don’t love swallowing pills, so I get them gummies instead.  Do I love that they have sugar?  No.  But it does mean that they don’t skip taking them and there is still a net benefit. 

Measuring

The best way to monitor your blood pressure and hemoglobin is by donating blood every eight weeks.  The American Red Cross is currently low, so offering a $10 Amazon gift card and a drawing for a trip to Florida if you book your next donation by March.

Recovering

I’m getting ready for my next plunge into the Long Island Sound; water temperature currently a brisk 52 degrees.  On the other end of the thermometer, I’ve started using the sauna daily after CrossFit.  So far it has felt great; I plan to stick with this new addition to my routine. 

Closing

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