Speedwork on a treadmill

Whew, what a hard workout today. Ok, so I thought, well I've been running faster anyway, so for this speedwork I can just plan on doing it faster. But it was on a treadmill, and it was supposed to be 2x 1600 instead of the past 3x 800. Ran the first mile (more or less 1600) in 7:42. I started it at a pace of 7:30, but halfway into it, I slowed down. It was hard! Then after that I decided to run a couple of 800's after my jog sequence. Ran the first half mile in 3:51 and the last in 3:59. Yup, I really slowed down on those. Then it was a rush to get ready for the day.

Today was a whirlwind of plant visits in Juarez. The visits included a plant that specializes in aluminum die casting for rotor cores and end brackets. Ok, I'm getting kind of technical, but one of the requirements for die casting is melting aluminum. Guess what? It's really really REALLY hot in that plant! The guy giving us the tour commented that they each drink about a gallon of water each day. No DUH! Anyway, I got to see quite a bit of what goes on here in Juarez. And we drove through some rather run down neighborhoods in the city. It was quite third world. But it was really interesting to me about what all is done here for manufacturing.

Ok, this has turned into more than just running. I was going to post separately some things about basic observations of the area. Like how it is so hot, I can understand that the relative darkness in restaurants is more than just mood lighting ... it has a lot to do with keeping cool.

Anyway, visiting Juarez was definitely interesting. I'm definitely not desiring to work here, but it will be interesting to see how the next visit goes. It will probably be more focused on one or two plants and the issues related to them. Plus the fact that my driver/tour guide is retiring from the company on Monday, so he won't be here to drive me for my next trip. Oh well, I'll be really glad to get home. I miss Glynis and can't wait to be with her!