If you take turns drafting and pulling.
And you don't look around at the pretty flowers.
You actually end up with a good bike pace average.
What a concept.
However, riding two days in a row...is hard.
I really have to get used to training again. I have taken about 10 1/2 months off. I mean I did stuff, but nothing "real training". And then spent the last 2 months doing jack.
Damn my body forgot how to do this stuff.
So, the I Love the Tavern Triathlon is this weekend. This was not on my original plan for the year, but since I had to drop out of Rockett's since I was on cruthces and stitched up, this one got added - the aquavelo only of course. just to "clear the cobwebs".
Well. Then my cousin and his famiyl were going ot be in town from NH touring some of the south's finiest civil war sites (his kids know mroe aboutthe civil war than those who have sutided it for 50 years). so since cousin Rick is going to be in town, my mom and brother are coming in town as well. and since I am doing a tri that weekend and my brother will be here, he may as well sign up for the race as well. and well since my brother and I are doing the race and cousin Rick is a runner...well then he may as well do the run for me. So I moved my registration from Aquavelo to 2-person relay. And "Lady and the Mustache" was born. my cousin rocks a great 'stache - and i don't think i would recognize him without it.
I am scheduled to do a big ride the day befor ethe race, so we shall see how this race turns out. It's all just a training day, right? just with results posted for all to see.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Vineman 70.3
IronGreg and I have decided that 2010 is the year of local short distance events.
But Vineman 70.3 is so very tempting.
But Vineman 70.3 is so very tempting.
First Bike Ride in the Books
Yay!
This weekend I was able to get back in the saddle and on the road for the first time post-op.
It was a little slower than I would have liked (by .5mph) but I am blaming the 3 red lights.
I heard a sweet story this morning. Some TG's ran across a baby bird on their bike ride who had fallen out of it's nest. One of them kindly took the baby bird home and researched on what to feed the sweet baby and was able to find a rehab for baby birds who will work with the baby bird for the next 6 weeks or so until it is back to full health.
That just makes my heart smile.
Also this weekend was TD's 1st birthday party extravaganza! that was good times. That boy has lots of girlfriends! He also played basketball for the first time! What an exciting day.
Today. I am tired.
This weekend I was able to get back in the saddle and on the road for the first time post-op.
It was a little slower than I would have liked (by .5mph) but I am blaming the 3 red lights.
I heard a sweet story this morning. Some TG's ran across a baby bird on their bike ride who had fallen out of it's nest. One of them kindly took the baby bird home and researched on what to feed the sweet baby and was able to find a rehab for baby birds who will work with the baby bird for the next 6 weeks or so until it is back to full health.
That just makes my heart smile.
Also this weekend was TD's 1st birthday party extravaganza! that was good times. That boy has lots of girlfriends! He also played basketball for the first time! What an exciting day.Today. I am tired.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Although the bruising and swellign continues, I think that's a good sign. It has to get worse to get better. I am still adament that I am not paying a co-pay to get a doctor to look at a pinky. s I talk to my mom (nurse) and one ofmy sports med's assistants and they btoh said it needs to be braced and watched and in a few days if it is still like this, then it needs a doctor. I may be broken now, but it's a pinky. a brace will be fine. Sweet. I am bracing. this is crazy.Swimming Can Be Dangerous to Your...Finger?
Circle swimming is common in swim classes with multiple people in each lane.
Inevitable you are going to hit inside arms/hands from time to time.
ProK always says swimming is a contact sport.
Sometimes that inside hand get a good whack!
Luckily, I can bend it so it's just jammed.
Now - to figure out when this happend!
first of all ProK had me swim with the Sharks - ack - scary! i knwo it's good for me, but it's scary, too! They are fast over there.
I remember having a run-in with someone's hand and I assumed it was Tyler.
Throughout class it was burning like I scraped it. I didn't rememebr hitting the lane line or anything.
As I was walking out of the locker room I looked down and holy bruise, batman! It was already swollen and burised. Uh-oh. But it's only a pinky finger (which my co-worker thinks I need).
But I can bend it and the swelling has gone down a lot. Now it's jsut bruised and looks a little deformed - must have jammed it.
The best part is I told Tyler's wife that her husband broke my finger.
His response - that I kicked him in his head.
First I thought - well that must have echoed haha.
then I realized i bet I didn't kick him in the head, but i hit him in the head and that's how I hurt my finger.
Man that boy is hard headed! Maybe that's why he runs so damn fast.
Note: it looks better in the picture. and no I am not getting x-rays done for a stupid pinky finger.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Feel Your Inner Tina
Rollin! Rollin! Rollin on a River!
Okay, so I may not be Tina Turner, and I may not be rollin on a river, but I am rolling along.
Literally in fact!
Yesterday was another GREAT day at PT with Annie.
not only did I continue to run 1 minute intervals on the readmill, I moved up in speed to 6.0. Getting better.
AND she told me I can ride OUTSIDE!!!
I was originally supposed to wait for 2 more weeks until my 8 week post-op exam. This is when Dr. Z would tell me if I could ride outside and start running.
But Annie has me moving right along ahead of schedule (Triathlon training came in handy maybe)
So this weekend I will be rolling along the road at the Tavern pre-ride. I know I have to take it slow, but still - I get to be out there!!!
Okay, so I may not be Tina Turner, and I may not be rollin on a river, but I am rolling along.
Literally in fact!
Yesterday was another GREAT day at PT with Annie.
not only did I continue to run 1 minute intervals on the readmill, I moved up in speed to 6.0. Getting better.
AND she told me I can ride OUTSIDE!!!
I was originally supposed to wait for 2 more weeks until my 8 week post-op exam. This is when Dr. Z would tell me if I could ride outside and start running.
But Annie has me moving right along ahead of schedule (Triathlon training came in handy maybe)
So this weekend I will be rolling along the road at the Tavern pre-ride. I know I have to take it slow, but still - I get to be out there!!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
BD is now TD
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday, dear David.
Happy Birthday to you!
Today BD (Baby David) becomes TD (Toddler David).
And how is my favorite nephew spending his first birthday?
Getting tubes in his ears. Poor little guy is having a rough morning.
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday, dear David.
Happy Birthday to you!
Today BD (Baby David) becomes TD (Toddler David).
And how is my favorite nephew spending his first birthday?
Getting tubes in his ears. Poor little guy is having a rough morning.
But Grandma did get him a very fun Radio Flyer wagon!
I can't wait to eat cake with you!
I love you little man!
I can't wait to eat cake with you!
I love you little man!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Running on Eggshells
an exciting morning at Physical Therapy.
I ran ONE MINUTE intervals for 15 minutes!
1 minute walk / 1 minute run.
PT Annie told me to "run on eggshells" and so I did.
It's awful hard trying to not land "toe-ball-heel" as you do in ballet. I think my body will always be trained to land softly that way.
I ran ONE MINUTE intervals for 15 minutes!
1 minute walk / 1 minute run.
PT Annie told me to "run on eggshells" and so I did.
It's awful hard trying to not land "toe-ball-heel" as you do in ballet. I think my body will always be trained to land softly that way.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Coming Along
Last night I did my first 10 minutes on the elliptical!
this morning at PT I jumped! And I ran 5x30 seconds!
this morning at PT I jumped! And I ran 5x30 seconds!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Where has the time gone?
First of all, I feel like I was jsut answering questions on buying bikes and what the heck a triathlon is.
And this morning I watched the Baby Pinks cross the line of victory - so proud of them!
One week has gone by without the use of crutches and I am feeling great! No more steri-strips now either! I think the scar is lookign quite nice (although some may get a weak stomach when seeing it).
Training...
Running - I have started pool running - although I Admit I havebeen a bit laz my first week back. I was able to run for 30 seconds (talk about endurance!) ont he treadmill at PT the other day. And I can now do the elliptical for 10 minutes.
Biking - I can ride the recumbant bike. I did the spin class once and learned I need to work my way into spin class. I didn't know if I could pick my foot up afterwards.
Swimming - I have gotten back to swim class! Kicking drills aren't much fun, but at least I can be in the water and swimming again. and without the use of a pull buoy either!
Weights - I went back to weights class the other day. I was scared to do a lot of things, so I didn't do too much, but this week I will try to do some more.
High five to the greek festival!
(and thank you again Little Tri D - that may have been the bext slice of pizza EVER!)
And this morning I watched the Baby Pinks cross the line of victory - so proud of them!
One week has gone by without the use of crutches and I am feeling great! No more steri-strips now either! I think the scar is lookign quite nice (although some may get a weak stomach when seeing it).
Training...
Running - I have started pool running - although I Admit I havebeen a bit laz my first week back. I was able to run for 30 seconds (talk about endurance!) ont he treadmill at PT the other day. And I can now do the elliptical for 10 minutes.
Biking - I can ride the recumbant bike. I did the spin class once and learned I need to work my way into spin class. I didn't know if I could pick my foot up afterwards.
Swimming - I have gotten back to swim class! Kicking drills aren't much fun, but at least I can be in the water and swimming again. and without the use of a pull buoy either!
Weights - I went back to weights class the other day. I was scared to do a lot of things, so I didn't do too much, but this week I will try to do some more.
High five to the greek festival!
(and thank you again Little Tri D - that may have been the bext slice of pizza EVER!)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
3 Weeks Post-Op
Wednesday. Hump Day. Still have 2.5 days until the weekend. What a drag.
Well, not today!
This morning I had my 3 week post-op appt with my surgeon/sports med doctor. And I walked out smiling. A smile so big you would think someone hit me on the back so hard that my face stuck!
1. First and foremost, the wound is closed. No more bandages! The steri-strips will start to fall off in the next few days.
2. No more crutches! That’s right – no more metal apparatus to knock into everything. I can hobble around on my own two feet!
3. Next week…I can get back in the pool. Good thing I just ordered some new goggles; swim class here I come!
4. Since I can get back in the pool….I can aqua jog! Although this is not exactly an exhilarating form of exercise, it’s a big step in recovery. I have some new aqua jog resistance shoes and wrist weights to make it a little more fun. And thank goodness my brother got me a SwimP3 a few years ago to keep myself entertained. (SQ you know this sounds fun) I can work my way up to the elliptical – or as I call it, ellipticalizing! If I trained for the San Francisco marathon all on the elliptical, surely I can start my Ironman marathon training that way, too!
5. Not only can I get in the water, but I can get back on the bike!!! Not just the recumbent bike, but my very own bike! Granted it needs to be on a trainer or in spin class, but at least I am spinning away!
6. Weight room, do you remember me? Well you better because I am on my way.
7. Last but not least – driving. The concern with driving is a safety issue. I don’t have much dorsal flexion still. He said I can push the brake with my left foot, but should probably practice this in a parking lot first. Who wants to come?
I have been playing by the rules and my results show it! Although I still have “the cankle” it will go down more as I begin to more active, same with the numbness in my foot.
In five weeks (so 8 weeks post-op) I will go back to (hopefully) get the okay to start pounding the pavement in my running shoes.
I hope you are having a great day, too!
Well, not today!
This morning I had my 3 week post-op appt with my surgeon/sports med doctor. And I walked out smiling. A smile so big you would think someone hit me on the back so hard that my face stuck!
1. First and foremost, the wound is closed. No more bandages! The steri-strips will start to fall off in the next few days.
2. No more crutches! That’s right – no more metal apparatus to knock into everything. I can hobble around on my own two feet!
3. Next week…I can get back in the pool. Good thing I just ordered some new goggles; swim class here I come!
4. Since I can get back in the pool….I can aqua jog! Although this is not exactly an exhilarating form of exercise, it’s a big step in recovery. I have some new aqua jog resistance shoes and wrist weights to make it a little more fun. And thank goodness my brother got me a SwimP3 a few years ago to keep myself entertained. (SQ you know this sounds fun) I can work my way up to the elliptical – or as I call it, ellipticalizing! If I trained for the San Francisco marathon all on the elliptical, surely I can start my Ironman marathon training that way, too!
5. Not only can I get in the water, but I can get back on the bike!!! Not just the recumbent bike, but my very own bike! Granted it needs to be on a trainer or in spin class, but at least I am spinning away!
6. Weight room, do you remember me? Well you better because I am on my way.
7. Last but not least – driving. The concern with driving is a safety issue. I don’t have much dorsal flexion still. He said I can push the brake with my left foot, but should probably practice this in a parking lot first. Who wants to come?
I have been playing by the rules and my results show it! Although I still have “the cankle” it will go down more as I begin to more active, same with the numbness in my foot.
In five weeks (so 8 weeks post-op) I will go back to (hopefully) get the okay to start pounding the pavement in my running shoes.
I hope you are having a great day, too!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
PT #3
Last night was rough. My ankle and toe were killing me softly. I tried to ise my leg, but it was so heavy. I got the anxious feeling again and had to take half a perc to get to sleep. I was jsut so uncomfortable.
Today we had a breakthrough.
Well first of all my toe hurt becuase of my walking on my foot properly.
My ankle hurt becuase of the ankle exercises, which are a bit progressive, and I did not ice right after PT.
However....I am down to one crutch!
Today we had a breakthrough.
Well first of all my toe hurt becuase of my walking on my foot properly.
My ankle hurt becuase of the ankle exercises, which are a bit progressive, and I did not ice right after PT.
However....I am down to one crutch!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
PT #2
This morning was my 2nd PT session - the first "real" one, since last time I was still all bandaged up.
Annie is being nice to me...so far =)
We started out with my home exercises and stretches as a warm up and we ended...
...
...
...
With a 6 minute ride on the recumbant bike!
Granted I was only pedaling with one leg, the other one got to go along for the ride!
I should be able to get rid of these balsted crutches in about a week, too!
Hopefully after my post-op appt next week I will get the "all clear" to get back in the pool and start driving again!
I would like to send a shout out to all my limo services. All these appointments require me finding lots of rides and it's so nice to have so many of my friends help me out. I hope I can return the favor for them one day...although not for an injury!
Annie is being nice to me...so far =)
We started out with my home exercises and stretches as a warm up and we ended...
...
...
...
With a 6 minute ride on the recumbant bike!
Granted I was only pedaling with one leg, the other one got to go along for the ride!
I should be able to get rid of these balsted crutches in about a week, too!
Hopefully after my post-op appt next week I will get the "all clear" to get back in the pool and start driving again!
I would like to send a shout out to all my limo services. All these appointments require me finding lots of rides and it's so nice to have so many of my friends help me out. I hope I can return the favor for them one day...although not for an injury!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Post-Op Appointment #1: Not for the faint
I didn't think today would ever come. My first post-op appointment. The day my sutures would be removed and the large bandage would no longer get in the way of my leg fully moving and getting into clothes!
TG Cathy picked me up and we were hopping to the car I mentioned to her my excitement in this adventure - adventure it what it was. Cathy's car had some bad gas - like eating too much mexican bad gas. This kept us entertained for the trip.
I got all checked in and Nurse Trish called me to the back. She saw that now that I am putting some weight on my foot I am walking tortoise slow - the hare would definitely win these days. So she moved me into the first room. I hopped up on the table as she got the suture removal kit. I couldn't wait to look under neach all the wrap, gauze and goodies. (Ok so maybe I peeked yesterday morning). Boy was that ga-ro-dee.
Time for the steri-strips to be removed (whoo getting faint thinking about it) As she peeled back the strip revealing the wound I see it still open. (gag reflex). Deep breaths, fave. Deep breaths. she explains to me that it is only one stitch - called a running stitch along the inside. she cuts the end - owie. Dr. Z comes in to check on me and about this time I am getting hot. not warm. Hot. Did someone turn up the heat because man I am dripping sweat. color - where did you go? they both look at me as I am now seeing spots. You feeling okay? I shake my head 'no' as I can't even speak. They quickly lay me down and put my knees up and start fanning me and get me some water. Trish keeps me talking. It felt like an hour, but was probably only about 5 minutes then I am able to breath normally again. I decide it is best that I do not watch her put on the new steri-strips.
Good news is I can take a shower! Not a bath, but a shower. What does this mean? I can shave my legs! IronGreg's legs are smoother than mine these days - there is something wrong with that. I of course can't clean the area of the wound, but at least I can get the leg wet now. And these new steri-strips will eventually fall off.
And now I can see the wound whenever I feel like it. The bruising is exposed, which my coworkers are enjoying since I am wearing shorts today. One step closer to recovery.
I would also like to high-five all my girls (and guys) that did Kinetic and White Lake this past weekend. you never cease to amaze me.
TG Cathy picked me up and we were hopping to the car I mentioned to her my excitement in this adventure - adventure it what it was. Cathy's car had some bad gas - like eating too much mexican bad gas. This kept us entertained for the trip.
I got all checked in and Nurse Trish called me to the back. She saw that now that I am putting some weight on my foot I am walking tortoise slow - the hare would definitely win these days. So she moved me into the first room. I hopped up on the table as she got the suture removal kit. I couldn't wait to look under neach all the wrap, gauze and goodies. (Ok so maybe I peeked yesterday morning). Boy was that ga-ro-dee.
Time for the steri-strips to be removed (whoo getting faint thinking about it) As she peeled back the strip revealing the wound I see it still open. (gag reflex). Deep breaths, fave. Deep breaths. she explains to me that it is only one stitch - called a running stitch along the inside. she cuts the end - owie. Dr. Z comes in to check on me and about this time I am getting hot. not warm. Hot. Did someone turn up the heat because man I am dripping sweat. color - where did you go? they both look at me as I am now seeing spots. You feeling okay? I shake my head 'no' as I can't even speak. They quickly lay me down and put my knees up and start fanning me and get me some water. Trish keeps me talking. It felt like an hour, but was probably only about 5 minutes then I am able to breath normally again. I decide it is best that I do not watch her put on the new steri-strips.Good news is I can take a shower! Not a bath, but a shower. What does this mean? I can shave my legs! IronGreg's legs are smoother than mine these days - there is something wrong with that. I of course can't clean the area of the wound, but at least I can get the leg wet now. And these new steri-strips will eventually fall off.
And now I can see the wound whenever I feel like it. The bruising is exposed, which my coworkers are enjoying since I am wearing shorts today. One step closer to recovery.
I would also like to high-five all my girls (and guys) that did Kinetic and White Lake this past weekend. you never cease to amaze me.
Friday, May 8, 2009
PT
I started PT this morning.
I decided to go with my friend and team mate Annie. She understands the craziness I do and she is quite convenient - on my way to my office! Maybe working with her I will get some of her super speediness, too!
The accomplishment this morning - I can now put a maximum of 25% of weight on my leg! I am a sloooooow walker, but will get there soon! Yay!
I decided to go with my friend and team mate Annie. She understands the craziness I do and she is quite convenient - on my way to my office! Maybe working with her I will get some of her super speediness, too!
The accomplishment this morning - I can now put a maximum of 25% of weight on my leg! I am a sloooooow walker, but will get there soon! Yay!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Rain rain go away
I am indifferent about rain.
Last night I got excited about all the rain we've been having when I saw my first 4 little tomatoes hanging off the plant, my spinach has quadrupled in size, and my lavender has doubled!
However, this morning I have changed my mind.
It started out as normal as these crutches make my morning routine. I hobbled out of the car (friend drops me off right at the front door) and into the building where my maintenance man was holding the door open for me. I take one hobble into the lobby and *SQUEAK* there go the crutches. Wet bottoms ont he shiney floor not so good. Wordt of all is that instinct is to keep from falling to the right - sam your right foot down., So that is what I did. HOLY SHIT. I couldn't get to my desk fast enough to allow the tears to flow without everyone seeing. My friend came and brought me an ice pack and my leg is elevated.
I don't think I tore the stitches, but that muscle might explode. It's jsut throbbing. I don't have pain meds with me nor can I take them at work ZZZZzzzz. And I am on Aspirin to avoid blood clots (since it's a lower leg incision my chances are increased) so I can't take any OTC drugs like tylenol or advil.
Rain Rain Go Away.
Come again when I can walk on TWO legs!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Surgery Report
It's been 6 days since my anterior lateral fasciotomy. And I feel like it was just yesterday.
Mom and Greg took me first to the DMV to pick up my handicapped pass. Mom and I went in while Greg stayed outside to eat so I didn't have to look at his delicious bagel. While we waited we watched a man, a very kind man, who was pushing 90 get his DRIVER'S LICENSE RENEWED! His daughter had to re-tell him everything the DMV attendant was saying bc his hearing aid must not have been turned up high enough. he couldn't read all the lines so they asked him if he saw blinking lights. We just sat there and stared. The guy in front of us took a picture of all this with his camera phone.
Next stop: Advaced Orthopaedic Surgery Center.
It was a very quick sign in and they brought me to the back. I barely had time to sit down before I was kissing mom and Greg bye. After getting int the gorgeous gown and cap, they brought mom and Greg back to sit with me. It was definitely entertaining being in that place! so much going on. I met with different nurses, doctors, anestesi...well don';t make me spell it. let me tell ya - that guy was a bundle of energy. He was going to put me to sleep without any drugs. But I guess that's a good thing. They finally wheeled me to the back. The room was big and white.
Next thing I know I bolted awake! The first thng I said, "Did I talk in my sleep?" Unfortunately not. "Well did I do anything fun in my sleep?" No. "Man, I'm boring". I rub my eyes and there's mom and Greg back to see me!
We went home and I already had the sofa bed pulled out ready for my arrival. But first I had to pee something crazy! I guess this is what pregnant women feel like. They told me when I got home to eat and take my medicine, including 2 percocets every 4 hours for the first 48 hours. Clearly they do not realize that I am tough. I only need 1 percocet at a time. Holy hell - give me more percocet! They weren't kidding. And you have to eat with it, and not just a little sampler, but a meal to not get sick. So I had LOTS of pizza, chik-fil-a, ice cream...the works! (calories don't count after surgery)
A few of my girlfriends came by and kept me company and everyone has been tkaing SUCH good care of me. It's very hard being dependent on people. I can't even carry the laundry to the washing machine! It's like not only did I lose the use of a leg, but also both arms because they are holding the crutches.
On Saturday night I noticed a red spot around my knee. It was VERY tender and warm to the touch. I called in adn the on-call doc called me back and told me to outline the area and then call back if it grows. Sunday morning it was looking good. The Sunday night it came back...bigger! So I call in and this time the on call doc, was my own Dr. Z. He wass concerned I had an infection! He thought about asking me to meet him at the ER, but then decided that it was probably cellulitis (cellu-what!!! um that word and I don't get along). So I went in first thng monday morning to see him. he was waiting for me when I got there. But the "hot spot" was gone again. So then he sent me over to the hospital to have a blood clot test done. As I was wheeled around the hospital by a 90 year old man - there is something wrong with this picture - but his son in PA does triathlons, too! blood clot came back negative - thank goodness!!! my leg was re-wrapped so I could bend my ankle better for my ankle pumps. Yowsers! those hurt!
I am feeling better. Night time is hard. it is just plain uncomfortable. my foot is swollen, but I can get a sneaker on it now. I start PT with TG Annie on Friday - I hope she's nice to me! and then on monday the blessed day. I get my stitches out.
Other exciting weekend news: B.D. IS WALKING!
Mom and Greg took me first to the DMV to pick up my handicapped pass. Mom and I went in while Greg stayed outside to eat so I didn't have to look at his delicious bagel. While we waited we watched a man, a very kind man, who was pushing 90 get his DRIVER'S LICENSE RENEWED! His daughter had to re-tell him everything the DMV attendant was saying bc his hearing aid must not have been turned up high enough. he couldn't read all the lines so they asked him if he saw blinking lights. We just sat there and stared. The guy in front of us took a picture of all this with his camera phone.
Next stop: Advaced Orthopaedic Surgery Center.
It was a very quick sign in and they brought me to the back. I barely had time to sit down before I was kissing mom and Greg bye. After getting int the gorgeous gown and cap, they brought mom and Greg back to sit with me. It was definitely entertaining being in that place! so much going on. I met with different nurses, doctors, anestesi...well don';t make me spell it. let me tell ya - that guy was a bundle of energy. He was going to put me to sleep without any drugs. But I guess that's a good thing. They finally wheeled me to the back. The room was big and white.
Next thing I know I bolted awake! The first thng I said, "Did I talk in my sleep?" Unfortunately not. "Well did I do anything fun in my sleep?" No. "Man, I'm boring". I rub my eyes and there's mom and Greg back to see me!
We went home and I already had the sofa bed pulled out ready for my arrival. But first I had to pee something crazy! I guess this is what pregnant women feel like. They told me when I got home to eat and take my medicine, including 2 percocets every 4 hours for the first 48 hours. Clearly they do not realize that I am tough. I only need 1 percocet at a time. Holy hell - give me more percocet! They weren't kidding. And you have to eat with it, and not just a little sampler, but a meal to not get sick. So I had LOTS of pizza, chik-fil-a, ice cream...the works! (calories don't count after surgery)
A few of my girlfriends came by and kept me company and everyone has been tkaing SUCH good care of me. It's very hard being dependent on people. I can't even carry the laundry to the washing machine! It's like not only did I lose the use of a leg, but also both arms because they are holding the crutches.
On Saturday night I noticed a red spot around my knee. It was VERY tender and warm to the touch. I called in adn the on-call doc called me back and told me to outline the area and then call back if it grows. Sunday morning it was looking good. The Sunday night it came back...bigger! So I call in and this time the on call doc, was my own Dr. Z. He wass concerned I had an infection! He thought about asking me to meet him at the ER, but then decided that it was probably cellulitis (cellu-what!!! um that word and I don't get along). So I went in first thng monday morning to see him. he was waiting for me when I got there. But the "hot spot" was gone again. So then he sent me over to the hospital to have a blood clot test done. As I was wheeled around the hospital by a 90 year old man - there is something wrong with this picture - but his son in PA does triathlons, too! blood clot came back negative - thank goodness!!! my leg was re-wrapped so I could bend my ankle better for my ankle pumps. Yowsers! those hurt!
I am feeling better. Night time is hard. it is just plain uncomfortable. my foot is swollen, but I can get a sneaker on it now. I start PT with TG Annie on Friday - I hope she's nice to me! and then on monday the blessed day. I get my stitches out.
Other exciting weekend news: B.D. IS WALKING!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
BL goes...Ironman?
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20276619,00.html
not sure how I feel about this. I think it’s great on one hand, and I think it’s marketing gone overboard on the other hand.
I cannot wait to see tonight’s episode. How is Ron going to run a marathon with his health history? That’s just foolish.
not sure how I feel about this. I think it’s great on one hand, and I think it’s marketing gone overboard on the other hand.
I cannot wait to see tonight’s episode. How is Ron going to run a marathon with his health history? That’s just foolish.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
it's the Final Countdown
I just got the time for surgery. I check in at 9:30am. At least I won’t have to go too long without any food or water.
On my way there I will detour by the DMV to pick up my handicap pass. (It’s good for 3 months – too bad it’s not Christmas at the mall!)
I have my medicine filled and ready.
I bought some new toe nail polish.
I got the new People Style mag for my reading pleasure.
Mom is brining the Bride Wars DVD for post-op movie viewing.
David is coming to see me tomorrow afternoon.
I lifted weights and rode my bike last night.
Swam this morning.
A couple friends are coming over tonight for the “Last Chance Workout” – a short run in the ‘hood.
Here goes nothing.
On my way there I will detour by the DMV to pick up my handicap pass. (It’s good for 3 months – too bad it’s not Christmas at the mall!)
I have my medicine filled and ready.
I bought some new toe nail polish.
I got the new People Style mag for my reading pleasure.
Mom is brining the Bride Wars DVD for post-op movie viewing.
David is coming to see me tomorrow afternoon.
I lifted weights and rode my bike last night.
Swam this morning.
A couple friends are coming over tonight for the “Last Chance Workout” – a short run in the ‘hood.
Here goes nothing.
Monday, April 27, 2009
P-I-C: Be Afraid
Partners - in - crime.
Now Partners - on - crutches.
Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Mainly because SQ and Favey will be on crutches, painkillers, are neighbors, and...like wine.
We once throught it was ironic that we both had older brothers...named Matt...that were doing Timberman 70.3 in 2008.
Then we bought condos less than a block from each other.
Now we have surgery pretty much together. Same bat place. Almost the same bat time.
so, yes, be afraid.
Now Partners - on - crutches.
Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Mainly because SQ and Favey will be on crutches, painkillers, are neighbors, and...like wine.
We once throught it was ironic that we both had older brothers...named Matt...that were doing Timberman 70.3 in 2008.
Then we bought condos less than a block from each other.
Now we have surgery pretty much together. Same bat place. Almost the same bat time.
so, yes, be afraid.
Surreal
Am I really having surgery in 3 days?
People have asked me if I am ready.
Is one ever ready to be sliced open and permanently scarred?
But I guess I am ready to accept that this is in my very near future.
I have gone to the grocery store, target, and run errands. (dammit I forgot air filters!)
I went for a long bike ride this weekend.
I spent sunday by the pool getting the last little bit of sun on my legs for awhile.
I went for an extra swim this morning.
I vacuumed the house. Up next: dusting and mopping.
I think I am about ready to spend a week with my feet kicked up...literally.
People have asked me if I am ready.
Is one ever ready to be sliced open and permanently scarred?
But I guess I am ready to accept that this is in my very near future.
I have gone to the grocery store, target, and run errands. (dammit I forgot air filters!)
I went for a long bike ride this weekend.
I spent sunday by the pool getting the last little bit of sun on my legs for awhile.
I went for an extra swim this morning.
I vacuumed the house. Up next: dusting and mopping.
I think I am about ready to spend a week with my feet kicked up...literally.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Counting Down
1 week from today is my fasciotomy.
A few ideas...
Bedazzling crutches
Making handle covers with all the fabric samples I have laying aorund my office (the beuty of being a designer)
7 days and counting...
A few ideas...
Bedazzling crutches
Making handle covers with all the fabric samples I have laying aorund my office (the beuty of being a designer)
7 days and counting...
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Baby Showering?
I don't know about what water your friends are drinking, but if they are dipping in the same well as mine, then you also have Baby Fever running rampant!
However, I do love planning showers! (baby and wedding!)
I love searching and finding exciting new give-aways, decorations, and of course, my favorit e- the invitations.
I jsut found my absolute FAVORITE baby shower invitation website.
Because if you are anything like me - going to the fun invitation stores require time that you jsut don't have.
www.peekaboopumpkin.com
Instant proofs, variety of fonts, help with rhyming. The works!
Seriously - the BEST ever.
Happ Baby Showering!
However, I do love planning showers! (baby and wedding!)
I love searching and finding exciting new give-aways, decorations, and of course, my favorit e- the invitations.
I jsut found my absolute FAVORITE baby shower invitation website.
Because if you are anything like me - going to the fun invitation stores require time that you jsut don't have.
www.peekaboopumpkin.com
Instant proofs, variety of fonts, help with rhyming. The works!
Seriously - the BEST ever.
Happ Baby Showering!
Cobwebs
With Ironman Arizona on the horizon, it's going to be a long season.
I haven't raced since Timberman 70.3 last year and have had quite the easy off-season. It hink my training partners heard me say "But it's my off-season" more times than they would care to.
I was schedule to participate in Rockett's Landing - the first local Olympic distance and with a purse, it ws drawing quite the elite crowd. A perfect way to kick off the season and clean off the cobwebs.
Put on the brakes.
It will be 2 weeks post-op. Bummer! no can do anymore.
Fortunately, the RD is allowing me to do another one of their races.
So I have added I Love the Tavern Aquavelo to the list for the year.
I have never done an Aquavelo. But since it's only 7 weeks post-op I will not be running 3 miles yet. But I will be (hopefully) able to handle the swim and the bike.
So here's to clearing out the cobwebs - something lots of my friends are doing this weekend at Rumpass in Bumpass, including my IronGreg!
(I wanted to do this rae just for a t-shirt that said 'Rumpass in Bumpass')
I haven't raced since Timberman 70.3 last year and have had quite the easy off-season. It hink my training partners heard me say "But it's my off-season" more times than they would care to.
I was schedule to participate in Rockett's Landing - the first local Olympic distance and with a purse, it ws drawing quite the elite crowd. A perfect way to kick off the season and clean off the cobwebs.
Put on the brakes.
It will be 2 weeks post-op. Bummer! no can do anymore.
Fortunately, the RD is allowing me to do another one of their races.
So I have added I Love the Tavern Aquavelo to the list for the year.
I have never done an Aquavelo. But since it's only 7 weeks post-op I will not be running 3 miles yet. But I will be (hopefully) able to handle the swim and the bike.
So here's to clearing out the cobwebs - something lots of my friends are doing this weekend at Rumpass in Bumpass, including my IronGreg!
(I wanted to do this rae just for a t-shirt that said 'Rumpass in Bumpass')
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Costco vs. BJ's
Okay - I am looking into the wholesale club membership.
Who likes which one and why?
Products?
Pizza?
Any and all feedback would be helpful, thanks!
Who likes which one and why?
Products?
Pizza?
Any and all feedback would be helpful, thanks!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Fasciotomy
Over the past 2 years of doing triathlons I have had little aches and pains.
Some haven driven me to see sports medicine doctors.
Some I am able to deal with.
First I had knee issues.
I saw Dr. Zaslav and Dr. Stadler over this.
Fortunately over the years as I have strengthened my quadricep, this has gotten SO much better. Sure from time to time it twinges, but it's not painful like it used to be.
The more recent injury has been the pain in my shin which last year was diagnosed as compartment syndrome. It's something I have always felt. I remember I used to hate speed walking with friends for exercise in college b/c it would make my shin hurt. Jogging actually felt better than walking!
As I have increased my training it has caused this pressure to build up enough to officially be diagnosed by Dr. Stadler. I spent some time in Physical Therapy with the great Jim Miller. This seemed to be working!
What is CECS?
Think of your muscle like a sausage. The meat being your muscle and the skin being your fascia. When everyone exercises your muscles require more oxygen and blood flow so they expand. Sometimes the fascia does not expand with your muscle cutting off blood flow and oxygen to that area. This is common in hands and legs.
I continued to take time off as I trained for Timerbman 70.3 - which during that race I had to walk up the hills because the shin was so swollen =(.
I took time off and slowly worked my way into marathon training. There were days I thought my leg was going to completely explode and there were days where it was manageable.
This winter I took it VERY easy. I haven't run much - enough to get me through. Unfortunately, the past month or so it has felt worse. My whole lower leg goes numb - it's so weird! I first started feeling it during my track workouts, but of course pretended it was my gait or something - which through this I think my gait is getting better although it still has a ways to go.
Then during the Monument 10k I had 2 issues - the stomach and the leg. I blamed everything on the stomach because I was too afraid of admitting how bad my leg hurt. I didn't tell anyone - not even IronGreg.
The following weekend I signed up to do the Ashland 10k. I wanted to work on nutrition and see how my stomach did. Well my stomach did a little better - still had issues, but not as bad. However, the leg was worse. And this time my friend Lizzy was running with me so there was no hiding my pain.
So on Monday after the race I called Dr. Zaslav to see if he knew anything else to help me out here. they asked me to come in right away when I was on the phone. Well, I work so I couldn't just get up and leave! So since I had Good Friday off I made my way in to go see him. We talked for a bit and he said that the reason at around mile 2 my foot was numb and by mile 4 my whole lower leg was because there was no blood or oxygen getting to that area - the furthest point away from the pressurized muscled first. he said I am a textbook case. And although Dr. Stadler and I have been doing everything right -it was obvious that the conservative methods of treating CECS (chronic exertional compartment syndrome) were just not working. And to make this go away once and for all - a fasciotomy.
So on April 28th I go in and have all my compartments tested, since only one has been tested so far. Afterwards I find out which compartments will be operated on and get all the pre-op informational meeting.
Then on April 30th I go in for the fasciotomy.
What is a fasciotomy?
Well - do not google it. I repeat do not google it. And if you do, beware it is not pretty pictures. Most pictures shown are emergency fasciotomies where it's just an ugly mess requiring grafting and all. That is not what is happening to me.
I will have 2 x 2" incisions on my shin where they go in and cut the fascia around my muscle. This will allow my muscle to expand when I exercise. It might look funny when it happens, but at least I will have blood and oxygen flowing to my leg!
He said I will have scars =(
I wonder if Costco sells Mederma!
What does this mean for Ironman Arizona training?
He wants to do the surgery right away to not get in the way of training too much. I will be on crutches at first. For the first 3 weeks I can't do anything. Although Coach G had a great point - that this is the time to clean out closets and such that I won't have time to do when training picks up!
After 10 days I get my stitches out.
After 3 weeks I can get back in the pool and on the stationary bike.
After 6 weeks I should be able to start running again. Albeit slowly.
So IMAZ is definitely still do-able. My training will focus on the swim and the bike and the run will be just to finish.
I am nervous because I have under had surgery, if you want to call it that, when getting my wisdom teeth out.
I am excited to be able to run again. The post run frustrations were really getting the best of me. I just want to be able to run. I was doing so well before all this.
I am not looking forward to the scars. =( But like IronGreg and my wonderful friends have said - they will be tough badass scars.
I will not be able to participate in the upcoming Rockett's Landing triathlon. But hopefully, I will be able to volunteer on teh run course with my other CZC volunteers!
So for the next 18 days I will be wearing skirts and heels as much as possible - I hope the weather cooperates with my fashion plan.
My first week back, my wonderful co-worker has agreed to take me to and from work everyday since it is my right leg so driving won't be possible at first. Many thanks to her in advance for that!
I will be accepting dog walkers - walking up and down 2 flights of stairs on crutches with a dog just doesn't sound fun, although I might win America's Funniest Home Videos!
And I have changed the date of my exam for post-op, so this will give me time when I can't train to focus on my LEED exam!
My fingers are tired of typing now.
Oh wait! I am drinking a hot chocolate now. Mmmmm Lent is over. Happy Easter!
Some haven driven me to see sports medicine doctors.
Some I am able to deal with.
First I had knee issues.
I saw Dr. Zaslav and Dr. Stadler over this.
Fortunately over the years as I have strengthened my quadricep, this has gotten SO much better. Sure from time to time it twinges, but it's not painful like it used to be.
The more recent injury has been the pain in my shin which last year was diagnosed as compartment syndrome. It's something I have always felt. I remember I used to hate speed walking with friends for exercise in college b/c it would make my shin hurt. Jogging actually felt better than walking!
As I have increased my training it has caused this pressure to build up enough to officially be diagnosed by Dr. Stadler. I spent some time in Physical Therapy with the great Jim Miller. This seemed to be working!
What is CECS?
Think of your muscle like a sausage. The meat being your muscle and the skin being your fascia. When everyone exercises your muscles require more oxygen and blood flow so they expand. Sometimes the fascia does not expand with your muscle cutting off blood flow and oxygen to that area. This is common in hands and legs.
I continued to take time off as I trained for Timerbman 70.3 - which during that race I had to walk up the hills because the shin was so swollen =(.
I took time off and slowly worked my way into marathon training. There were days I thought my leg was going to completely explode and there were days where it was manageable.
This winter I took it VERY easy. I haven't run much - enough to get me through. Unfortunately, the past month or so it has felt worse. My whole lower leg goes numb - it's so weird! I first started feeling it during my track workouts, but of course pretended it was my gait or something - which through this I think my gait is getting better although it still has a ways to go.
Then during the Monument 10k I had 2 issues - the stomach and the leg. I blamed everything on the stomach because I was too afraid of admitting how bad my leg hurt. I didn't tell anyone - not even IronGreg.
The following weekend I signed up to do the Ashland 10k. I wanted to work on nutrition and see how my stomach did. Well my stomach did a little better - still had issues, but not as bad. However, the leg was worse. And this time my friend Lizzy was running with me so there was no hiding my pain.
So on Monday after the race I called Dr. Zaslav to see if he knew anything else to help me out here. they asked me to come in right away when I was on the phone. Well, I work so I couldn't just get up and leave! So since I had Good Friday off I made my way in to go see him. We talked for a bit and he said that the reason at around mile 2 my foot was numb and by mile 4 my whole lower leg was because there was no blood or oxygen getting to that area - the furthest point away from the pressurized muscled first. he said I am a textbook case. And although Dr. Stadler and I have been doing everything right -it was obvious that the conservative methods of treating CECS (chronic exertional compartment syndrome) were just not working. And to make this go away once and for all - a fasciotomy.
So on April 28th I go in and have all my compartments tested, since only one has been tested so far. Afterwards I find out which compartments will be operated on and get all the pre-op informational meeting.
Then on April 30th I go in for the fasciotomy.
What is a fasciotomy?
Well - do not google it. I repeat do not google it. And if you do, beware it is not pretty pictures. Most pictures shown are emergency fasciotomies where it's just an ugly mess requiring grafting and all. That is not what is happening to me.
I will have 2 x 2" incisions on my shin where they go in and cut the fascia around my muscle. This will allow my muscle to expand when I exercise. It might look funny when it happens, but at least I will have blood and oxygen flowing to my leg!
He said I will have scars =(
I wonder if Costco sells Mederma!
What does this mean for Ironman Arizona training?
He wants to do the surgery right away to not get in the way of training too much. I will be on crutches at first. For the first 3 weeks I can't do anything. Although Coach G had a great point - that this is the time to clean out closets and such that I won't have time to do when training picks up!
After 10 days I get my stitches out.
After 3 weeks I can get back in the pool and on the stationary bike.
After 6 weeks I should be able to start running again. Albeit slowly.
So IMAZ is definitely still do-able. My training will focus on the swim and the bike and the run will be just to finish.
I am nervous because I have under had surgery, if you want to call it that, when getting my wisdom teeth out.
I am excited to be able to run again. The post run frustrations were really getting the best of me. I just want to be able to run. I was doing so well before all this.
I am not looking forward to the scars. =( But like IronGreg and my wonderful friends have said - they will be tough badass scars.
I will not be able to participate in the upcoming Rockett's Landing triathlon. But hopefully, I will be able to volunteer on teh run course with my other CZC volunteers!
So for the next 18 days I will be wearing skirts and heels as much as possible - I hope the weather cooperates with my fashion plan.
My first week back, my wonderful co-worker has agreed to take me to and from work everyday since it is my right leg so driving won't be possible at first. Many thanks to her in advance for that!
I will be accepting dog walkers - walking up and down 2 flights of stairs on crutches with a dog just doesn't sound fun, although I might win America's Funniest Home Videos!
And I have changed the date of my exam for post-op, so this will give me time when I can't train to focus on my LEED exam!
My fingers are tired of typing now.
Oh wait! I am drinking a hot chocolate now. Mmmmm Lent is over. Happy Easter!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Recessionista Strikes Again
My colleague recently took advantage of the real estate market and last week she closed on her first home!The boxes are unpacked.
The rooms have been painted.
Next task: the yard.
As she begins to tell me what needs to be done, my "recessionista light bulb" lights up!
go get a cheap pair of heels and go for a walk around the yard - no need to pay someone to aerate the grass, when you can do it yourself with a pair of heels and some good wine!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Twister
Another mental image from Sunday's ride.
(thanks to JRo for this entertaining image along the ride)
On a seperate note...
does anyone else understand the goodness of Skippy Natural peanut butter.
It's like nectar of the gods.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Weekend
Saturday was the Monument Avenue 10k
I had some GI issues along the way causing em to walk to compose myself.
But I still finished with a PR (yes, it has been THAT long since I have done a 10k)
56:46.
I was hoping for a 8:40-8:50 pace, but did a 9:08.
I have decided to do the Ashland Railroad 10k this weekend to work on nutrition and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.
Yesterday I rode the course for the upcoming Rockett's Landing Triathlon.
This image sums up my feelings on that ride.
(Insert Princess instead of Toto)
I had some GI issues along the way causing em to walk to compose myself.
But I still finished with a PR (yes, it has been THAT long since I have done a 10k)
56:46.
I was hoping for a 8:40-8:50 pace, but did a 9:08.
I have decided to do the Ashland Railroad 10k this weekend to work on nutrition and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.Yesterday I rode the course for the upcoming Rockett's Landing Triathlon.
This image sums up my feelings on that ride.
(Insert Princess instead of Toto)
Monday, March 23, 2009
Meet at the 'T'
This weekend is the annual Monument Ave 10k.
AKA monument mobfest.
A time when thousands of runners and walkers take over Monument Avenue.
Led by the Kenyons with veteran and new particpants throughout the field.
Spectators line the monument and tree-lined streets cheering while sipping coffee, bloodies, and mimosas.
Followed by parties, cookouts, and celebrations.
Highlights to look forward to.
One fo my BFF's, Neffaramous (the other Missy) is running this year - her first race ever!
I will NOT get sick before this year's race and ba able to participate.
IronGreg is sure to PR - he has been working awfully hard.
there will be LOTS of PINK out there!
See everyone at the 'T' afterwards.
I can't stay long, so run fast.
Here's to a week of hydrating and eating properly.
AKA monument mobfest.
A time when thousands of runners and walkers take over Monument Avenue.
Led by the Kenyons with veteran and new particpants throughout the field.
Spectators line the monument and tree-lined streets cheering while sipping coffee, bloodies, and mimosas.
Followed by parties, cookouts, and celebrations.
Highlights to look forward to.
One fo my BFF's, Neffaramous (the other Missy) is running this year - her first race ever!
I will NOT get sick before this year's race and ba able to participate.
IronGreg is sure to PR - he has been working awfully hard.
there will be LOTS of PINK out there!
See everyone at the 'T' afterwards.
I can't stay long, so run fast.
Here's to a week of hydrating and eating properly.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Change of Plans
First of all, if you are not wearing green i am sending you a virtual *pinch pinch*
I started out training with a goal...
To break 2 hours in a half marathon.
I have had some hurdles along the way with still having shin issues and adding in some foot issues.
But I know what I want, and I know wanting it is half the battle.
Unfortunately, my Grandma is not feeling well.
So this weekend, without any hesitation I am foregoing the Shamrock Half Marathon and am going to drive north to spend some time with my Grandma - I love that cute little Italian lady.
I can't wait to snuggle with her - nothing matters when Grandma holds you tight.
I wish my team mates the best of luck this weekend. I will be thinking of them along the way.
And request in my honor that 2 particular people break 2 hours in my honor since I cannot be there. (no pressure) Arriba! Arriba!
I started out training with a goal...
To break 2 hours in a half marathon.
I have had some hurdles along the way with still having shin issues and adding in some foot issues.
But I know what I want, and I know wanting it is half the battle.
Unfortunately, my Grandma is not feeling well.
So this weekend, without any hesitation I am foregoing the Shamrock Half Marathon and am going to drive north to spend some time with my Grandma - I love that cute little Italian lady.
I can't wait to snuggle with her - nothing matters when Grandma holds you tight.
I wish my team mates the best of luck this weekend. I will be thinking of them along the way.
And request in my honor that 2 particular people break 2 hours in my honor since I cannot be there. (no pressure) Arriba! Arriba!
Camp Reflections
As many of you know I am involved with an organization that is very dear to me, Comfort Zone Camp (CZC). I have been helping at the camps for 4 years now and have spent the last 2.5 years also sitting on their Volunteer Council.
For those unfamilair, CZC is the nation's largest bereavement camp for children who have lost a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. It's a fun and safe place for grieving children. Free of charge to campers and volunteers, CZC is based out of Richmond, VA with a satellite camp in New Jersey. Serving kids allover the country, including Canada and England, CZC is now offering camps at new locations in California and Boston. At camp these kids get to meet other kids that are also hurting - they see that they are not alone. They learn that all their feelings are normal. It's okay to cry. It's okay to remember. It's okay to smile and have fun.
I just returned from camp and every time I go it's an amazing experience. The children have such stories. Some similar to mine - I lost my dad to cancer when I was 13, grandparents, uncles, and friends over the years - and some quite different from mine. Some experience multiple losses. No matter the loss, these kids show such strength and courage. They are stronger than they realize. They are truly inspriational. They have no idea the effect that their smile leaves on your soul.
Camp is a "reality check" in a way. sometimes we think our lives are so hard. We get mad at the computer for being slow. We get frustrated becuase our run times are slower than we would like. It's so easy to get caught up in the little things in life. so what the computer is being slow - at least we have one. So we aren't running our ideal pace - but at least we can run.
We have to keep in mind that everything we do we do it with our friends and fmaily at our sides. And that is what is important in life.
We need to remember to tell our friends that are our family.
We need to remember to tell our family that they are loved.
We are all so truly blessed in so many ways, even if we have experienced a loss. There is always a silver lining.
What made this camp have an extra special sparkle to it was the loss that the camp itself overcame. As we were all packing for camp Thursday night, someone broke into the camp offices and stole computers, money, etc. Fortunately, no personal information was taken. Although the camp staff walked in Friday morning to find police fingerprinting everything, they ran with what they had and made sure that camp this weekend went off just as normal regardless of the loss they were dealing with. Campers never knew this happened. And most of the volunteers had no idea either.
Like I said, there is always a silver lining.
Although the camp headquarters may have lost some computers and money. They were given attention by local news and radio spreading the word on this great organization which will hopefully get to another grieveing child in need.
Times like this , when someone acts so poorly, it brings out the good in others. As the camp staff got to the offices on Monday they were met by a local alarm system donating a FREE system and a YEAR'S worth of monthly monitoring fees. They have been blessed with donations. and in jsut a few weeks in their annual black tie fundraiser gala. The mission of Comfort Zone Camp continues to grow.
For those unfamilair, CZC is the nation's largest bereavement camp for children who have lost a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. It's a fun and safe place for grieving children. Free of charge to campers and volunteers, CZC is based out of Richmond, VA with a satellite camp in New Jersey. Serving kids allover the country, including Canada and England, CZC is now offering camps at new locations in California and Boston. At camp these kids get to meet other kids that are also hurting - they see that they are not alone. They learn that all their feelings are normal. It's okay to cry. It's okay to remember. It's okay to smile and have fun.
I just returned from camp and every time I go it's an amazing experience. The children have such stories. Some similar to mine - I lost my dad to cancer when I was 13, grandparents, uncles, and friends over the years - and some quite different from mine. Some experience multiple losses. No matter the loss, these kids show such strength and courage. They are stronger than they realize. They are truly inspriational. They have no idea the effect that their smile leaves on your soul.
Camp is a "reality check" in a way. sometimes we think our lives are so hard. We get mad at the computer for being slow. We get frustrated becuase our run times are slower than we would like. It's so easy to get caught up in the little things in life. so what the computer is being slow - at least we have one. So we aren't running our ideal pace - but at least we can run.
We have to keep in mind that everything we do we do it with our friends and fmaily at our sides. And that is what is important in life.
We need to remember to tell our friends that are our family.
We need to remember to tell our family that they are loved.
We are all so truly blessed in so many ways, even if we have experienced a loss. There is always a silver lining.
What made this camp have an extra special sparkle to it was the loss that the camp itself overcame. As we were all packing for camp Thursday night, someone broke into the camp offices and stole computers, money, etc. Fortunately, no personal information was taken. Although the camp staff walked in Friday morning to find police fingerprinting everything, they ran with what they had and made sure that camp this weekend went off just as normal regardless of the loss they were dealing with. Campers never knew this happened. And most of the volunteers had no idea either.
Like I said, there is always a silver lining.
Although the camp headquarters may have lost some computers and money. They were given attention by local news and radio spreading the word on this great organization which will hopefully get to another grieveing child in need.
Times like this , when someone acts so poorly, it brings out the good in others. As the camp staff got to the offices on Monday they were met by a local alarm system donating a FREE system and a YEAR'S worth of monthly monitoring fees. They have been blessed with donations. and in jsut a few weeks in their annual black tie fundraiser gala. The mission of Comfort Zone Camp continues to grow.
Monday, March 16, 2009
I'm Sorry, what did you say?
Monday 03/09
*AH-CHOO*
sniffle sniffle sniffle
I realize I slept with my window open. Allergies.
Tuesday 03/10
"my ear sure does hurt from all this sinus pressure.
I hope my Claritin-D kicks in soon. "
Wednesday 03/11
"wah wah wah. I would like some cheese with my whine"
*insert mass amount of snot*
Thursday 03/12
"Maybe if I sit here with my head sideways, gravity will release the pressure so I can hear again.
*insert honking sound of nose blowing*
I tell IronGreg that this has made me retain water.
He lets me know, that no I am not retaining water, but I am probably retaining snot!
Thanks, babe.
thursday night
Patient First straight from work.
ear infection. (I blame Baby David een though they are not contaqgious, but the cute doctor did say the underlying virus is)
sinus infection
Friday 03/13
Time for Comfort Zone Camp. mmm a weekend of being outside in the lovely rain and cold with no hearing and a snot faucet for a nose.
I pick up 2 boxes of Vicks scented tissues
One week later now I have crackling started in my right ear.
Hopefully the antibiotics will soon clear it away so I can hear and breathe, and stop disgusting those around me with the nose blowing (I think it sounds like the sweet sounds of an orchestra, but no one agrees with me for some reason)
So here's to wishing for the ability to hear and breathe normal again soon!!
Rain Rain Go Away
And take my ear and sinus infections with you!
*AH-CHOO*
sniffle sniffle sniffle
I realize I slept with my window open. Allergies.
Tuesday 03/10
"my ear sure does hurt from all this sinus pressure.
I hope my Claritin-D kicks in soon. "
Wednesday 03/11
"wah wah wah. I would like some cheese with my whine"
*insert mass amount of snot*
Thursday 03/12
"Maybe if I sit here with my head sideways, gravity will release the pressure so I can hear again.
*insert honking sound of nose blowing*
I tell IronGreg that this has made me retain water.
He lets me know, that no I am not retaining water, but I am probably retaining snot!
Thanks, babe.
thursday night
Patient First straight from work.
ear infection. (I blame Baby David een though they are not contaqgious, but the cute doctor did say the underlying virus is)
sinus infection
Friday 03/13
Time for Comfort Zone Camp. mmm a weekend of being outside in the lovely rain and cold with no hearing and a snot faucet for a nose.
I pick up 2 boxes of Vicks scented tissues
One week later now I have crackling started in my right ear.
Hopefully the antibiotics will soon clear it away so I can hear and breathe, and stop disgusting those around me with the nose blowing (I think it sounds like the sweet sounds of an orchestra, but no one agrees with me for some reason)
So here's to wishing for the ability to hear and breathe normal again soon!!
Rain Rain Go Away
And take my ear and sinus infections with you!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
St. Bridget's 5k
This morning was the St. Bridget's 5k.
Sometimes I get frustrated with neighborhood 5k's b/c of the chaos, but this one is a little different. Not only is it where I go to church, but it is also where my god friend's daughter goes to Kindergarten.
My friend Katharine and I jogged the 1.5 mi down to the church for a little warm-up. We met up with some friends and then it was time to get to the start line.
Ummmm where is the start line? And the mass chaos began. But today I was liek "eh. whatever". The sound the horn and we are off.
The start of the race was like letting a bunch of wild animals out of their cages. One little boy fell and skinned his knees, right at the start. I paused and saw someone comign to his rescue so I continued on. Poor little guy.
First mile feels good - downhill, oh yeah baby! The goal changed from running a solid pace, to not running over a kid. It was great seeing so many kids out there so excited to be active and participate in the event. You could over hear some of them talking about pacing and not going out too strong and asking if it was okay to walk, etc. Very sweet.
we have an out and back and I as I am coning back around I see parents instructing their kids to just go forward and avoid the out and back. For real?! Don't teach your children to cheat. If you don't want your child to do it because of their fitness level and not get injured I can undersand but one woman was clearly just lazy and that made my skin curl.
Then came the 2nd mile marker. I look at my watch
16:52
Holy Mother of God.
That's an 8:26 pace.
Heck yeah.
Wait for it.
Wait for it.
That would be losing it.
The last mile took me 10 minutes.
Yes, 10 minutes.
I finished in 27 minutes and change for roughly an 8:57 +/- pace.
Um, oops.
My shin was btohering me up the hill - rememebr me saying that we started downhill. yeah that means we finished uphill. Uphill and shins don't get along. I cold feel them tightening and so I walked up the hill. I have one angel on my shoulder telling me to suck it up. I had the other angel on my shoulder telling me it's not worth inflamming my leg for a neighborhood 5k. I know the second angel is the one to listen to, but it is swallowing a little pride to walk up a hill in a 5k. Damn that pride.
Damn my shins.
But I finished. And had good friends there with me.
So all in all - it was a good day.
Now off to do some speed work on the bike (who's a glutton for punishment?)
Then...target day, baby! woo-hoo!
Happy 70 degree weather weekend!
PS - Go Ironman Will!
Sometimes I get frustrated with neighborhood 5k's b/c of the chaos, but this one is a little different. Not only is it where I go to church, but it is also where my god friend's daughter goes to Kindergarten.
My friend Katharine and I jogged the 1.5 mi down to the church for a little warm-up. We met up with some friends and then it was time to get to the start line.
Ummmm where is the start line? And the mass chaos began. But today I was liek "eh. whatever". The sound the horn and we are off.
The start of the race was like letting a bunch of wild animals out of their cages. One little boy fell and skinned his knees, right at the start. I paused and saw someone comign to his rescue so I continued on. Poor little guy.
First mile feels good - downhill, oh yeah baby! The goal changed from running a solid pace, to not running over a kid. It was great seeing so many kids out there so excited to be active and participate in the event. You could over hear some of them talking about pacing and not going out too strong and asking if it was okay to walk, etc. Very sweet.
we have an out and back and I as I am coning back around I see parents instructing their kids to just go forward and avoid the out and back. For real?! Don't teach your children to cheat. If you don't want your child to do it because of their fitness level and not get injured I can undersand but one woman was clearly just lazy and that made my skin curl.
Then came the 2nd mile marker. I look at my watch
16:52
Holy Mother of God.
That's an 8:26 pace.
Heck yeah.
Wait for it.
Wait for it.
That would be losing it.
The last mile took me 10 minutes.
Yes, 10 minutes.
I finished in 27 minutes and change for roughly an 8:57 +/- pace.
Um, oops.
My shin was btohering me up the hill - rememebr me saying that we started downhill. yeah that means we finished uphill. Uphill and shins don't get along. I cold feel them tightening and so I walked up the hill. I have one angel on my shoulder telling me to suck it up. I had the other angel on my shoulder telling me it's not worth inflamming my leg for a neighborhood 5k. I know the second angel is the one to listen to, but it is swallowing a little pride to walk up a hill in a 5k. Damn that pride.
Damn my shins.
But I finished. And had good friends there with me.
So all in all - it was a good day.
Now off to do some speed work on the bike (who's a glutton for punishment?)
Then...target day, baby! woo-hoo!
Happy 70 degree weather weekend!
PS - Go Ironman Will!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Spring Fever
With the 9-12" of snow we received on Sunday/Monday, I take it as Mother Nature's final act, so to speak, of winter.
If seasons were a play, this snow would be the finale filled with song and dance.
Therefore, spring is right around the corner.
I am ready to ride my bike outside in the heat feeling the breeze I make through...my hair? Okay maybe not my hair, but through the vent holes in my helmet!
I am ready to run down the street and not avoiding ice and snow along the sidewalk like it's a trail.
I am ready to furnish my new balconies with patio furniure and host cook outs with fruity drinks. and lay out with a maragarita in hand. (hmmm is there a theme?)
I am ready to grow my little herb garden on the balcony off my kitchen.
I am ready to get a TAN!
Allow me to quote the character Mary Lennox from the movie A Secret Garden, "When will it be spring?"
If seasons were a play, this snow would be the finale filled with song and dance.
Therefore, spring is right around the corner.
I am ready to ride my bike outside in the heat feeling the breeze I make through...my hair? Okay maybe not my hair, but through the vent holes in my helmet!
I am ready to run down the street and not avoiding ice and snow along the sidewalk like it's a trail.
I am ready to furnish my new balconies with patio furniure and host cook outs with fruity drinks. and lay out with a maragarita in hand. (hmmm is there a theme?)
I am ready to grow my little herb garden on the balcony off my kitchen.
I am ready to get a TAN!
Allow me to quote the character Mary Lennox from the movie A Secret Garden, "When will it be spring?"
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Practice Pays Off
This morning I was forced to do a time 50 meter at the end of class.
After 5 million meters of kicking.
After 1 million meters of butterfly (which i actually don't mind even though half the pool water ends up in my sinuses)
umm, I'm tired.
Ok, ok.
Result - 0:44.
So I wonder - what have my previous timed 50's been?
Well last January they were in the mid 50's.
I guess getting my tired ass out of bed at the crack of dawn once a week for the last 6 months is paying off.
Now if only it didn't take me about 20 minutes to do a flip turn - slow motion for ya. slow motion for ya.
After 5 million meters of kicking.
After 1 million meters of butterfly (which i actually don't mind even though half the pool water ends up in my sinuses)
umm, I'm tired.
Ok, ok.
Result - 0:44.
So I wonder - what have my previous timed 50's been?
Well last January they were in the mid 50's.
I guess getting my tired ass out of bed at the crack of dawn once a week for the last 6 months is paying off.
Now if only it didn't take me about 20 minutes to do a flip turn - slow motion for ya. slow motion for ya.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Spinderella Cut it up one time
I may or may not currently be singing Salt N Pepa in my head.
It's 7:30am on Monday and I am not getting ready for work.
Why, you may be asking.
Because I live in Richmond.
And it's SNOWING!
I have all my blinds open to look at it and just pulled out the ski clothes so I can go make a snow angel without getting wet. Hopefully IronGreg will get brave and get on the raods - he's from NJ this is nothing to him, right?!
Off to Princess out - have to keep her on a leash and maybe in a bright orange vest, too! She could get lost.
Well I'll be beack with pictures and to maybe blog about training. The little bit that I am doing.
Happy Snow Day!
It's 7:30am on Monday and I am not getting ready for work.
Why, you may be asking.
Because I live in Richmond.
And it's SNOWING!
I have all my blinds open to look at it and just pulled out the ski clothes so I can go make a snow angel without getting wet. Hopefully IronGreg will get brave and get on the raods - he's from NJ this is nothing to him, right?!
Off to Princess out - have to keep her on a leash and maybe in a bright orange vest, too! She could get lost.
Well I'll be beack with pictures and to maybe blog about training. The little bit that I am doing.
Happy Snow Day!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Track
Well, I did it. I ran again.
And boy did it SUCK! My legs felt like lead, I was getting side stitches - and on 1200's!
It could have been becuase I have only been pool running for the last 2 weeks.
Or it could have been becuase I drank about 7 bottles of wine saturday night.
Unfortunately, I think it was the latter.
During the 1200's I couldn't break 2:00/400m.
My 400's were in the 1:40's which isn't bad, but they felt awful.
But at least I am out there again.
And boy did it SUCK! My legs felt like lead, I was getting side stitches - and on 1200's!
It could have been becuase I have only been pool running for the last 2 weeks.
Or it could have been becuase I drank about 7 bottles of wine saturday night.
Unfortunately, I think it was the latter.
During the 1200's I couldn't break 2:00/400m.
My 400's were in the 1:40's which isn't bad, but they felt awful.
But at least I am out there again.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Foot
I woke up yesterday morning.
and had NO foot pain!
I have taken the last 2 weeks off from running (so we'll see how shamrock and monument go!), but I guess that's what I needed.
I bought new shoes, so tonight I go back to running.
Here goes nothing!
and had NO foot pain!
I have taken the last 2 weeks off from running (so we'll see how shamrock and monument go!), but I guess that's what I needed.
I bought new shoes, so tonight I go back to running.
Here goes nothing!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Sleeping
I have always been one to go to bed early and wake up early.
My dad always said, "The early bird gets the worm".
The past 2 nights I have not been able to stay awake long enough to see the endings to my favorite reality shows. Greg broke the news to me that Jillian was sent home on The Bachelor. WHAT?! I need to see this online. I really thought she was going all the way. I guess Melissa is - b/c there is now way Molly is.
And now - I have no idea how the weigh-ins wenbt on BL.
Good thing they now air these shows online!
My dad always said, "The early bird gets the worm".
The past 2 nights I have not been able to stay awake long enough to see the endings to my favorite reality shows. Greg broke the news to me that Jillian was sent home on The Bachelor. WHAT?! I need to see this online. I really thought she was going all the way. I guess Melissa is - b/c there is now way Molly is.
And now - I have no idea how the weigh-ins wenbt on BL.
Good thing they now air these shows online!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Aging Up
Saturday marked the official day that I age up in to the 30-34 AG.Friday I get to work around lunch after a photo shoot at a resturant I designed. I walk in and the girls on my team have cupcakes from my fave cupcake boutique, Two Sweet. And in G&HA tradition, they made me a most fabulous card.
After work I get home to find that Princess has already been walked and fed and there are flowers on the counter. I wonder who broke in...
Off to dinner for my Valentine's dinner date with IronGreg and his friend T - T's grilfriend was also turning 30 on the 14th! So the boys take us to dinner and we fill our bellies. food come sets in and all we can think about is going to bed! but the boys convince us that we should go meet up with their work friends. We get to the resturant and...SURPRISE!!
The boys have been planning a surprise party for us for months! so sweet.
Then I wake up on my birthday...with heartburn. Welcome to the 30's club!
After a 2 hour pool run with Laure and swimming a few laps I head to go pick up the birthday shirt from the alteration place. However, I leave empty handed. They lost my shirt!!!!!!!
Deep breaths. Take a nap.
Get my hair and brows did.
Head off to meet the girls for manis. But not just any ole manicure - party in the parking lot with cupcakes and B&J Margaritas! Now that's what i'm talking about!
I'm rady to go to the family dinner. IronGreg picks me up with gifts and more flowers!!! That's 3x in one week - I could get used to this! A new iPod and.....a SNUGGIE!!!Niiiice.
Family dinner was fun. B.D. is crawling all over the place.
Head off to the party and boy that was fun.
What happens at the birthday party, stays at the birthday party.
Needless to say, although I was surprisingly not hngover I spent Sunday napping and being lazy with my family.
Welcome to the 30's!!!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Foot Report: Part 3
Today the foot is feeling alright.
It just feels tender and sore.
I decided that I definitely just pulled something.
When can I start running again?
It just feels tender and sore.
I decided that I definitely just pulled something.
When can I start running again?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Foot Report: Part 2
I decided there is no way that I have a stress fracture.
I haven't even been running as much as I am supposed to.
I am working on improving my form.
And I drink my milk!!!
I decided that I pulled something.
Maybe next week I can kick, swim breast stroke, push off the wall with both feet, and even wear heels again.
I haven't even been running as much as I am supposed to.
I am working on improving my form.
And I drink my milk!!!
I decided that I pulled something.
Maybe next week I can kick, swim breast stroke, push off the wall with both feet, and even wear heels again.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Foot Report: Part 1
It's too early to tell if it is anything too serious (ie the dreaded stress fracture)
So for 1 week no running.
Then next week - bone scan.
So for 1 week no running.
Then next week - bone scan.
Say a little prayer for my foot
I ran 12 on Sunday and started feeling this pulling feeling on the outside of my right foot.
(I need a new right leg – first the knee, then the shin and now the foot!)
Anyways, yesterday it felt bruised and tender. Last night at track practice I could feel it, but figured I need new shoes.
After track I went to the grocery store and noticed I was limping around and then I started getting shooting pains through the foot that would make my whole body cringe.
I took 2 Advil last night and iced it since it feels bruised.
Today it is still bothering me.
I can’t imagine it being overuse since my mileage is down from just a few months ago and I am only running outside twice a week now.
Ho hum. Will I ever work out with no pains?
(I need a new right leg – first the knee, then the shin and now the foot!)
Anyways, yesterday it felt bruised and tender. Last night at track practice I could feel it, but figured I need new shoes.
After track I went to the grocery store and noticed I was limping around and then I started getting shooting pains through the foot that would make my whole body cringe.
I took 2 Advil last night and iced it since it feels bruised.
Today it is still bothering me.
I can’t imagine it being overuse since my mileage is down from just a few months ago and I am only running outside twice a week now.
Ho hum. Will I ever work out with no pains?
Monday, February 9, 2009
Bob Babbitt
This weekend was the USAT-MA Annual meeting as well as the RTC banquet.
The guest speaker this year was Bob Babbitt - the voice behind Ironman.
Bob spoke as the symposium as well as the banquet, so I was lucky enough to hear him twice.
He has so many FAVulous stories I could listen to him for hours. I would probably end up with six-pack abs from laughing!
But my favorite story was this...
(back story, Bob's first Ironman finish was at the 3rd ever Ironman. Before there were even water stops. he knows every story behind the race known as Ironman)
At the 25th anniversary of Ironman he was watching all the finishers go by and one after another was complaining that they had a bad day b/c they were minutes or hours after their self-imposed goal time. He was with Michael Collins (I think that's his name...he also got involved in the first Ironmans at the age of 16) who said, "Bob these people don't know what a bad day is. A bad day is when you are still running as the sun is coming up and the paper boy goes by you with newspapers that have the results posted for a race you are still in"
Bob also told stories of the amazing people he has met through his charity - the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
Then comes Sunday morning and time for my 12 mile run. Last year during shamrock training I really worked hard. this year I have the same goals, but have found myself not working so hard. I missed my 10 miler. And I missed last week. So the last time I ran outside was 2 weeks ago and that was only 8 miles. Luckily Miso (one of the three amigas) felt the same way. This year we are not at what she called, "our fighting game". so we knock out the 12 miles. But it wasn't easy. I paid for my slackness and it was a wake up call that I only have a month before the race and if I don't get my ass in gear I might be able to finish it, but it will not be fun. And well, it's all about fun, right! so I remind myself that this is the year of missy. and it's okay to say no to volunteering at everything. I think about how it may take me longer, but after listening to Bob - at least the paper boy won't be passing me and at least I have my own legs.
Today I will enjoy the last Monday of my 20's.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
I Can Fly!
The past few months I have learned various drills to learn the stroke of butterfly.
This morning we put those drills together.
The result - me swimming full stroke butterfly for the first time ever!
And it felt great!
Thanks, Coach K!
This morning we put those drills together.
The result - me swimming full stroke butterfly for the first time ever!
And it felt great!
Thanks, Coach K!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Birthday Wishes
Happy 30th Birthday to my wonderful IronGreg.today he is officially up an age group.
Tonight he has quite the birthday celebration in store for him - and he doens't knwo wanything about it - heeheehee.
Although friends have suggested black lace and dim lighting, I will save that for late night - and save you from hearing about it!
As she trains for her 2nd Ironman - IMUSA - she trains hards and raises 2 of the most well behaved children.
Happy 24th Birthday to Tyler.My good friend's fiance, who just returned from teaching in Mumbai. and she is working the wine bar at my neighborhood hot spot tonight, so I mgiht be detouring there later for a visit!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Kitty Litter
Richmond doesn't get snow.
It gets ice.
Ice is slippery.
so last week whe we got a little sheet of ice, I found myself sliding around as I walked up to my 3rd floor condo (I use the back stairs). So I quickly went back down them, thankfully not on my butt, and went straight to the grocery store for some rock salt.
the men at the store convince me that kitty litter is better than rock salt for this.
Boy are they wrong.
It is a disastrous mess.
Clumps of kitty litter EVERYWHERE!
It trickled through the deck onto the floors below (but no one lives there). and i am on my knees every other day with lysol wipes cleaning kitty litter residue off the floor!
The rule is to take your shoes off at the door and to immediately wipe off the dogs toesies.
Disaster I tell you. Disaster.
It is starting to dry out and this morning I even swept some - but that whole going to work thing)
we are expected to get rain/snow/ice tonight.
Disaster will continue to grow.
Lesson learned: Cats make me sneeze. And Kitty Litter makes a mess. I'm such a dog lover!
(although I do have some friends with cute kitties - some like to snuggle in my purse, too!)
It gets ice.
Ice is slippery.
so last week whe we got a little sheet of ice, I found myself sliding around as I walked up to my 3rd floor condo (I use the back stairs). So I quickly went back down them, thankfully not on my butt, and went straight to the grocery store for some rock salt.
the men at the store convince me that kitty litter is better than rock salt for this.
Boy are they wrong.
It is a disastrous mess.
Clumps of kitty litter EVERYWHERE!
It trickled through the deck onto the floors below (but no one lives there). and i am on my knees every other day with lysol wipes cleaning kitty litter residue off the floor!
The rule is to take your shoes off at the door and to immediately wipe off the dogs toesies.
Disaster I tell you. Disaster.
It is starting to dry out and this morning I even swept some - but that whole going to work thing)
we are expected to get rain/snow/ice tonight.
Disaster will continue to grow.
Lesson learned: Cats make me sneeze. And Kitty Litter makes a mess. I'm such a dog lover!
(although I do have some friends with cute kitties - some like to snuggle in my purse, too!)
Monday, January 19, 2009
Observations
While plugging away on the elliptical I made some observations.
1. Most men that wear spandex shorts to the gym are related to the triathlon community.
2. Why do people use the stairmaster and then put all their weight on their arms and not on their legs? Does that not defeat the purpose?
3. I really should put my book club book on my shuffle and listen to that while staring into space.
4. Why do people wear sweatshirts (and sweatpants) while doing cardio? Yet they fan them selves from being so hot. Idea...how about taking off the sweatshirt there, genius!
5. Why do some people feel that they should have the few standing fans pointed directly at them diretly in front of their cardio machine? The fan has a feature called "oscillating" - they should try it sometime.
6. It makes me smile to see people who are overweight workout.
1. Most men that wear spandex shorts to the gym are related to the triathlon community.
2. Why do people use the stairmaster and then put all their weight on their arms and not on their legs? Does that not defeat the purpose?
3. I really should put my book club book on my shuffle and listen to that while staring into space.
4. Why do people wear sweatshirts (and sweatpants) while doing cardio? Yet they fan them selves from being so hot. Idea...how about taking off the sweatshirt there, genius!
5. Why do some people feel that they should have the few standing fans pointed directly at them diretly in front of their cardio machine? The fan has a feature called "oscillating" - they should try it sometime.
6. It makes me smile to see people who are overweight workout.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
My night
Joelle does not deserve to be on the BL campus.
Jerry and Dan should both stay.
In other news...
I had a hard track workout last night.
My calves are sore.
I had a hard spin tonight.
My legs are tired.
Tonight I broke out the new compression recovery tights.
Jerry and Dan should both stay.
In other news...
I had a hard track workout last night.
My calves are sore.
I had a hard spin tonight.
My legs are tired.
Tonight I broke out the new compression recovery tights.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Swimming and BL
Last night was a new season of BL.
I am liking these couples...so far.
I love that Jerry and Estelle are the "grandparents"
Now on BL when you pull a big number one week it's a high (I even get a high for them)
But then the next week your knees tremble because odds are you have a smaller loss (which is a still a loss!!)
Now this morning I had an awesome swim class.
Everything was feeling good.
Ironwoman Canada kept commenting that things were looking good
(must be becuase it was not breast stroke)
However...does this mean next week I will flail around like a fish out of water...even though I am in the water.
I am liking these couples...so far.
I love that Jerry and Estelle are the "grandparents"
Now on BL when you pull a big number one week it's a high (I even get a high for them)
But then the next week your knees tremble because odds are you have a smaller loss (which is a still a loss!!)
Now this morning I had an awesome swim class.
Everything was feeling good.
Ironwoman Canada kept commenting that things were looking good
(must be becuase it was not breast stroke)
However...does this mean next week I will flail around like a fish out of water...even though I am in the water.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
2008 Comes to a close
2008 was filled with...
memories
firsts
injuries
PR's
the list goes on.
Most of all it was filled with friends and family.
Cheers to a happy and healthy 2009!
memories
firsts
injuries
PR's
the list goes on.
Most of all it was filled with friends and family.
Cheers to a happy and healthy 2009!
See ya next year!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Back to training...I think
Thepast week was not only christmas - which means you eat lot sof food without reading the labels and drink an obscene amount of wine.
Add to that being sick and unable to workout.
the epitome of laziness.
christmas + bad cold + mom's TLC. life is good. (thanks to puffs plus that is)
but alas, time to hit the gym again.
wait, first let me...
FALL DOWN THE STAIRS!
For real?!?!
My knee is begging for an ice pack.
And my back is asking for the heating pad.
Now I really need mom's TLC.
Add to that being sick and unable to workout.
the epitome of laziness.
christmas + bad cold + mom's TLC. life is good. (thanks to puffs plus that is)
but alas, time to hit the gym again.
wait, first let me...
FALL DOWN THE STAIRS!
For real?!?!
My knee is begging for an ice pack.
And my back is asking for the heating pad.
Now I really need mom's TLC.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Single Ladies
I can only hope that one day I have a daughter this talented.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_0JiIIsWd0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_0JiIIsWd0
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Track
I finally made it back to track practice last night.
I drive over to the track. Hmmm. there are no cars.
I call a few people and fianlly get an answer.
And track is n ow at a different track!
I head on over to the other track, which fortunately was not far away.
I missed the warm up, so I just did an 800 around the track.
It was a nice evening. Not cold.
It sure was humid, though.
The shins were tight, but not making me stop.
As we continue doing timed 1200's they get real tight. dammit!
then luckily we do another 1200 but this time it's broken up.
yeah rests.
wait every 200 we have to do 10 push ups.
but that's 60 push ups.
it wasn't so bad. i kind of liked it.
shhhh.
around this time the lights come on.
then we do sprints up and down the field to work on form.
must use arms.
must use arms.
then it's time to go.
already?
okay.
time to eat!
I drive over to the track. Hmmm. there are no cars.
I call a few people and fianlly get an answer.
And track is n ow at a different track!
I head on over to the other track, which fortunately was not far away.
I missed the warm up, so I just did an 800 around the track.
It was a nice evening. Not cold.
It sure was humid, though.
The shins were tight, but not making me stop.
As we continue doing timed 1200's they get real tight. dammit!
then luckily we do another 1200 but this time it's broken up.
yeah rests.
wait every 200 we have to do 10 push ups.
but that's 60 push ups.
it wasn't so bad. i kind of liked it.
shhhh.
around this time the lights come on.
then we do sprints up and down the field to work on form.
must use arms.
must use arms.
then it's time to go.
already?
okay.
time to eat!
Friday, December 12, 2008
I love Christmas!
A Christmas Story for people having a bad day:
When four of Santa's elves got sick, the trainee elves did not produce toys as fast as the regular ones, and Santa began to feel the Pre-Christmas pressure.
Then Mrs. Claus told Santa her Mother was coming to visit, which stressed Santa even more.
When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two others had jumped the fence and were out, Heaven knows where.
Then when he began to load the sleigh, one of the floorboards cracked, the toy bag fell to the ground and all the toys were scattered.
Frustrated, Santa went in the house for a cup of apple cider and a shot of rum. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered the elves had drank all the cider and hidden the liquor.
In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the cider jug, and it broke into hundreds of little glass pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found the mice had eaten all the straw off the end of the broom.
Just then the doorbell rang and an extremely irritated Santa marched to the door, yanked it open, and there stood a little angel with a great big Christmas tree. The angel said very cheerfully, 'Merry Christmas, Santa. Isn't this a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Where would you like me to stick it?'
And so began the tradition of the little angel on top of the Christmas tree.
When four of Santa's elves got sick, the trainee elves did not produce toys as fast as the regular ones, and Santa began to feel the Pre-Christmas pressure.
Then Mrs. Claus told Santa her Mother was coming to visit, which stressed Santa even more.
When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two others had jumped the fence and were out, Heaven knows where.
Then when he began to load the sleigh, one of the floorboards cracked, the toy bag fell to the ground and all the toys were scattered.
Frustrated, Santa went in the house for a cup of apple cider and a shot of rum. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered the elves had drank all the cider and hidden the liquor.
In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the cider jug, and it broke into hundreds of little glass pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found the mice had eaten all the straw off the end of the broom.
Just then the doorbell rang and an extremely irritated Santa marched to the door, yanked it open, and there stood a little angel with a great big Christmas tree. The angel said very cheerfully, 'Merry Christmas, Santa. Isn't this a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Where would you like me to stick it?'
And so began the tradition of the little angel on top of the Christmas tree.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Challenge
Clearly we all like a little challenge here and there.
Well Coach G added an extra yummy challenge in there for us.
The challenge: to set up goals for yourself for the month of December.
The prize: an outfit from Skirt Sports - a team sponsor.
So what is my challenge for the month.
1. to only miss 1 workout a week due to pure laziness. I may have to miss some due to my volunteer committments so those don't count. but when I feel the need to be lazy. that counts.
2. to get my shins in check.
3. to get rid of the hole in my foot.
now #'s 2 and 3 are somewhat out of my control, but I will do what the doctors tell me to get them better and that's all I can ask for.
so...here's to not being lazy. it sure has been fun the last few months though.
Well Coach G added an extra yummy challenge in there for us.
The challenge: to set up goals for yourself for the month of December.
The prize: an outfit from Skirt Sports - a team sponsor.
So what is my challenge for the month.
1. to only miss 1 workout a week due to pure laziness. I may have to miss some due to my volunteer committments so those don't count. but when I feel the need to be lazy. that counts.
2. to get my shins in check.
3. to get rid of the hole in my foot.
now #'s 2 and 3 are somewhat out of my control, but I will do what the doctors tell me to get them better and that's all I can ask for.
so...here's to not being lazy. it sure has been fun the last few months though.
Monday, November 24, 2008
IMAZ or BUST
Registration Confirmation for:
2009 Ford Ironman Arizona
Dear Melissa,
Congratulations! You are now registered for 2009 Ford Ironman Arizona. Please check the event's official website for updates: http://www.ironmanarizona.com
2009 Ford Ironman Arizona
Dear Melissa,
Congratulations! You are now registered for 2009 Ford Ironman Arizona. Please check the event's official website for updates: http://www.ironmanarizona.com
Richmond Marathon
Last week I ran my 2nd marathon. It was my brother's 4th.
Mile 4 - we passed my condo and Coach G was out there with her kids ringing cowbells for us.
Mile 16 - bonk. right when IronGreg was on the course cheering me on.
Mile 26.2 - the finish line. TG KO was there at the bottom of the chute and caught me as my sister came running around the corner to give me a hug and support - I wanted to just puke. but i didn't!
After weeks of watching the weather we were ready...cold and rainy.
throughout the night we were awakended by the thunderstorms.
Then came time to get up - just a gentle pitter patter of the drops.
Okay that's more like it.
Time goes on.
And the temperature does to...to over 70 degrees.
With headwinds.
and sun.
The girls and I charged forward. Playing the alphabet scattergories game that entertained us during our training. We posed for pictures and were having fun.
Some memorable moments included...
Mile 4 - we passed my condo and Coach G was out there with her kids ringing cowbells for us. Mile 6 - I saw my mom, sister, and nephew. That 
was a great booster!
was a great booster! 
Mile 8 - a tree fell from the wind. not just a branch..the whole thing! It scared the beegees out of us. Timberrrrrr!
Mile 10 - there was a car accident. One car was in our way, so it was being used as a dumping ground for cups after the water stop.
Mile 11 - a woman tried to turn crossing over the path of the runners. I gave her a few choice words. (inspired by Miso?)
Mile 12 - DOMinator met me with my additional bag of shot blocks and enurolyte tablets. this was much needed.
Mile 16 - bonk. right when IronGreg was on the course cheering me on. I took in more salt and water and caught a 2nd wind.
That didn't last long.
The girls pushed forward.
IronGreg ran the last 10 miles with me pulling me in. blocking the wind for me.
Mile 20 - a sign read "if you haven't puke yet, you're not going to". I laughed at that. surely they didn't know what my tummy was feeling like.
Mile 24 - IronGreg's family was there cheering me (us) on. A great booster.
Mile 26.2 - the finish line. TG KO was there at the bottom of the chute and caught me as my sister came running around the corner to give me a hug and support - I wanted to just puke. but i didn't! It was not a great race. (for me or my brother) Frustrating to knowI had such good training to end upwith a bad day. But we have to take what we are given.
And most importantly I finished.
Therefore, it was a good day.
There are estimates out there that people were on average 40 minutes slower than their expected finish time.
Goal A - 4:23
Finish time - 5:03
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Marathon Theme Song
"Against the wind
We were runnin' against the wind
We were young and strong,
we were runnin'Against the wind"
Thank you Bob Segar
We were runnin' against the wind
We were young and strong,
we were runnin'Against the wind"
Thank you Bob Segar
Thursday, November 13, 2008
26.2 Miles of Dedication
According to WordNet® 3.0, © 2006 by Princeton University Dedication is:
dedication
noun
1. complete and wholehearted fidelity
2. a ceremony in which something (as a building) is dedicated to some goal or purpose
3. a message that makes a pledge [syn: commitment]
4. a short message (as in a book or musical work or on a photograph) dedicating it to someone or something
5. the act of binding yourself (intellectually or emotionally) to a course of action; "his long commitment to public service"; "they felt no loyalty to a losing team" [syn: commitment]
Some have commenting to me on the dedication it takes one to challenge themselves to even contemplate running a marathon - the training, time, nutrition, and all else that goes into making your body gain the ability to perform the task at hand.
According to Fave, Dedication is...
1 - my brother, Matthew - He is the one whose determination and dedication of marathns and triathlons inspried me to pursue them myself.
2 - all the women on my team - that showed me that with mental toughness and the support of each other anyone can conquer any challenge . if you want it, it's yours for the taking.
3 - my colleagues - they laugh at me whe I come in sore from a big workout, support my need for caffeine when I am tired from getting up too early so I can fit it in, and confirm that it is okay for to me to constantly sit here eating!
4 - missy - one of my BFF's who supports these crazy goals I have and entertains me on trail runs so we can grow stronger together.
5 - monkey Karen - who has begun the challenge herself in completeing her first two running races and aleready making such strides (pun intended)
6 - cousin Rachel - (who I still pretend is in middle school even though she is finishing college)under my peer pressure she completed her first 10k this spring even though I ended up being too sick to barely get out of bed but she kept pushing forward and recently completed her first half marathon.
7 - Baby David - the world is at his fingertips. May he conquer all that he dreams of.
8 - cousin Carolyn - who recently crossed the finish line of her first triathlon and afterwards she gave me one of the greatest compliments of all - that I was her inspiration. (me? really?)
9 - Coach G - she developed not only a training plan to get me to the finish line but also a circle of support that words cannot do justice.
10 - Coach Karen - who will continue to kick my butt in the water and on the track...if I ever go!
11 - Jackie - as she begins to prepare herself for taking on this challenge for the first time herself.
12 - Keiko - childhood to "adult"hood friends. a fellow interior designer. and now a fellow triathlete, too.
13 - Pinot Noir - for my sanity
14 - SQ - for always smiling
15 - Teresa Stadler - for keeping my going
16 - Jim Miller - for keeping my shins working.
17 - Princess -I have a crazy schedule for taking her o-u-t and her snggles are the best!
18 - Molly, Mollie, Lisa, and Debbie - for our training runs.
19 - Mindy - my co-worker training "together" (she's with Sports Backers) to complete her first marathon
20 - KO - true friends don't need ponytail holders.
21 - my Iron girls - the dedication they show to overcome any and all obstacles to complete a marathon...after swimming 2.4 miles and cycling 112 miles.
22 - Karen and Temple - my girls pursuing their goal with me in the Richmond Marathon. Their first time taking on 26.2 miles of smiles.
23 - Katharine - who always keeps me focused on what it is important. she has met me at the gym too many mornings to "ellipticalize" together when my knees and/or shins were too inflammed for actual running.
24 - Alison - who convinced me to sign up for the Nike Women's HALF Marathon last year. i couldn't get in, so she said I could sign up for the full and run the half. Without that half filling up I wouldn't have had the confidence to pursue the full...and complete it!
25 - Mom - whose cheers can be heard above all others and finish line hugs cannot compare
26 - Greg - "Greggy-Pooh" as he has become to the TG's. who keeps me focused and hydrate and eat the right things...with ice cream splurges. And let's me whine and complain over the small things - then brings me back to reality.
.2 - Lynnie and Miso - Sure the ".2" seems like a small distance, but it is the longest distance one can imagine. Without our games (I can hear you) and wearing masks, training would not have been nearly enough fun. I credit these two girls for keeping me going thoughout our training. Miso Grateful. I dedicate this marathon to us!
dedication
noun
1. complete and wholehearted fidelity
2. a ceremony in which something (as a building) is dedicated to some goal or purpose
3. a message that makes a pledge [syn: commitment]
4. a short message (as in a book or musical work or on a photograph) dedicating it to someone or something
5. the act of binding yourself (intellectually or emotionally) to a course of action; "his long commitment to public service"; "they felt no loyalty to a losing team" [syn: commitment]
Some have commenting to me on the dedication it takes one to challenge themselves to even contemplate running a marathon - the training, time, nutrition, and all else that goes into making your body gain the ability to perform the task at hand.
According to Fave, Dedication is...
1 - my brother, Matthew - He is the one whose determination and dedication of marathns and triathlons inspried me to pursue them myself.
2 - all the women on my team - that showed me that with mental toughness and the support of each other anyone can conquer any challenge . if you want it, it's yours for the taking.
3 - my colleagues - they laugh at me whe I come in sore from a big workout, support my need for caffeine when I am tired from getting up too early so I can fit it in, and confirm that it is okay for to me to constantly sit here eating!
4 - missy - one of my BFF's who supports these crazy goals I have and entertains me on trail runs so we can grow stronger together.
5 - monkey Karen - who has begun the challenge herself in completeing her first two running races and aleready making such strides (pun intended)
6 - cousin Rachel - (who I still pretend is in middle school even though she is finishing college)under my peer pressure she completed her first 10k this spring even though I ended up being too sick to barely get out of bed but she kept pushing forward and recently completed her first half marathon.
7 - Baby David - the world is at his fingertips. May he conquer all that he dreams of.
8 - cousin Carolyn - who recently crossed the finish line of her first triathlon and afterwards she gave me one of the greatest compliments of all - that I was her inspiration. (me? really?)
9 - Coach G - she developed not only a training plan to get me to the finish line but also a circle of support that words cannot do justice.
10 - Coach Karen - who will continue to kick my butt in the water and on the track...if I ever go!
11 - Jackie - as she begins to prepare herself for taking on this challenge for the first time herself.
12 - Keiko - childhood to "adult"hood friends. a fellow interior designer. and now a fellow triathlete, too.
13 - Pinot Noir - for my sanity
14 - SQ - for always smiling
15 - Teresa Stadler - for keeping my going
16 - Jim Miller - for keeping my shins working.
17 - Princess -I have a crazy schedule for taking her o-u-t and her snggles are the best!
18 - Molly, Mollie, Lisa, and Debbie - for our training runs.
19 - Mindy - my co-worker training "together" (she's with Sports Backers) to complete her first marathon
20 - KO - true friends don't need ponytail holders.
21 - my Iron girls - the dedication they show to overcome any and all obstacles to complete a marathon...after swimming 2.4 miles and cycling 112 miles.
22 - Karen and Temple - my girls pursuing their goal with me in the Richmond Marathon. Their first time taking on 26.2 miles of smiles.
23 - Katharine - who always keeps me focused on what it is important. she has met me at the gym too many mornings to "ellipticalize" together when my knees and/or shins were too inflammed for actual running.
24 - Alison - who convinced me to sign up for the Nike Women's HALF Marathon last year. i couldn't get in, so she said I could sign up for the full and run the half. Without that half filling up I wouldn't have had the confidence to pursue the full...and complete it!
25 - Mom - whose cheers can be heard above all others and finish line hugs cannot compare
26 - Greg - "Greggy-Pooh" as he has become to the TG's. who keeps me focused and hydrate and eat the right things...with ice cream splurges. And let's me whine and complain over the small things - then brings me back to reality.
.2 - Lynnie and Miso - Sure the ".2" seems like a small distance, but it is the longest distance one can imagine. Without our games (I can hear you) and wearing masks, training would not have been nearly enough fun. I credit these two girls for keeping me going thoughout our training. Miso Grateful. I dedicate this marathon to us!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
An 'I' becomes a 'L'. A 'L' becomes an 'I'
As the alarmed went off this morning I was up and ready for swim practice.
I was feeling good working on freestyle. The hips were rotating (although I was stretching my arm out too far forward)
Then came backstroke. In the past I would windmill down the lane and get it done.
Not today.
ProKaren broke it down and I just could not get the timing down! It's backstroke! Sometimes after breaking things apart I jsut can't put them back together. I overthink. Grrr.
So I had to do my drill...
an 'I; becomes a 'L'
a 'L' becomes an 'I'
Fianlyl ProKaren was over us being retarded on our backs.
So she has us do breast stroke.
mmmm. interesteing.
now I have had some friends attempt to teach me this, butI have never had an actual breast stroke lesson. And I can't frog kick and my legs be mirror images.
we do a few laps "making a pizza and cutting it in half"
not bad.
then comes to just frog kicking.
For me this looked more like treading water.
and she wants to complete a 100 IM one day. oh Lord. I hope that day is far off.
I was feeling good working on freestyle. The hips were rotating (although I was stretching my arm out too far forward)
Then came backstroke. In the past I would windmill down the lane and get it done.
Not today.
ProKaren broke it down and I just could not get the timing down! It's backstroke! Sometimes after breaking things apart I jsut can't put them back together. I overthink. Grrr.
So I had to do my drill...
an 'I; becomes a 'L'
a 'L' becomes an 'I'
Fianlyl ProKaren was over us being retarded on our backs.
So she has us do breast stroke.
mmmm. interesteing.
now I have had some friends attempt to teach me this, butI have never had an actual breast stroke lesson. And I can't frog kick and my legs be mirror images.
we do a few laps "making a pizza and cutting it in half"
not bad.
then comes to just frog kicking.
For me this looked more like treading water.
and she wants to complete a 100 IM one day. oh Lord. I hope that day is far off.
Monday, November 3, 2008
So Proud
1. My friends became Iron(wo)men this weekend. And damn they looked good doing it.
2. The guy who taught me to swim. no really, he made me swim my first lap ever last year. He finished his 5th ironman...of 2008. (yes, he's crazy and we love him) And he sitll has 1 more to go.
3. Amy finished the NYC Marathon yesterday taking the headwinds...head on (ha! get it?!)
4. Lots of my friends signed up for IMFL09
So...
...in 3 days one of my closest friends who lives in GA is coming to VA for a few days to see me!!
...in 5 days my cousin that I conviced to run her first 10k with me this spring (and then I got sick and couldn't run) she is going to do her first half marathon!
...in 12 days I will begin (and hopefully finish) the Richmond Marathon. And my brother is running it too. and my mom is going to come out and watch, too!
...in 21 days I attempt to sign up for IMAZ09
2. The guy who taught me to swim. no really, he made me swim my first lap ever last year. He finished his 5th ironman...of 2008. (yes, he's crazy and we love him) And he sitll has 1 more to go.
3. Amy finished the NYC Marathon yesterday taking the headwinds...head on (ha! get it?!)
4. Lots of my friends signed up for IMFL09
So...
...in 3 days one of my closest friends who lives in GA is coming to VA for a few days to see me!!
...in 5 days my cousin that I conviced to run her first 10k with me this spring (and then I got sick and couldn't run) she is going to do her first half marathon!
...in 12 days I will begin (and hopefully finish) the Richmond Marathon. And my brother is running it too. and my mom is going to come out and watch, too!
...in 21 days I attempt to sign up for IMAZ09
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
IMFL: Earning the M-dot
To all my girls (and guy) conquering IMFL this weekend.
Kate O, Shawn, Sharon, Patty, Kate G, Charlotte, (all first timers) and the Sominator (6th of the year!)
I wish you...
... stress free travels on the way to Florida
... the best glass of wine you've ever tasted the night before the race.
... calm waters during the swim with a current that carries you forward (or maybe a dolphin to ride on)
...tail wind on the bike. and no saddle sores. and no funky chafing spots either.
... little engines in your sneakers to keep pushing you forward toward breaking that tape.
... and a finish line moment you'll never forget.
Is this a mastercard blog post or what?!
I look forward to watching you cross that finish line via ironmanlive.com
Sending you hugs!!!
xoxo,
FAVE
Kate O, Shawn, Sharon, Patty, Kate G, Charlotte, (all first timers) and the Sominator (6th of the year!)
I wish you...
... stress free travels on the way to Florida
... the best glass of wine you've ever tasted the night before the race.
... calm waters during the swim with a current that carries you forward (or maybe a dolphin to ride on)
...tail wind on the bike. and no saddle sores. and no funky chafing spots either.
... little engines in your sneakers to keep pushing you forward toward breaking that tape.
... and a finish line moment you'll never forget.
Is this a mastercard blog post or what?!
I look forward to watching you cross that finish line via ironmanlive.com
Sending you hugs!!!
xoxo,
FAVE
Monday, October 27, 2008
Training.
I'm still here.
We survived Vegas and the Halfmax National Championship race.
IronGreg did great as did his friends.
And TG Karen makes it look so easy.
My phone, however, did not survive Vegas. RIP.
A new phone is born.
I survived my 22 mile run this past weekend thanks to TG's Lynnie and Miso. My feet still hurt. I attempted to wear heels to a party afterwards and my feet began to suffer from "Dunlap Disease" usually this occurs when you eat too much and your stomach done laps over your pants. Well my feet were swelling and done lapping over the sides of my oh so cute heels. So I switched to slippers. They looked great with my dress and pearls.
I may have gotten 8 hours of sleep this weekend...combined.
I'm tired.
I'm skipping a track workout tonight so I can hibernate. Slacker? yeah I agree, but I'm cranky so it's in everyone's best interest for me to sleep.
good night.
We survived Vegas and the Halfmax National Championship race.
IronGreg did great as did his friends.
And TG Karen makes it look so easy.
My phone, however, did not survive Vegas. RIP.
A new phone is born.
I survived my 22 mile run this past weekend thanks to TG's Lynnie and Miso. My feet still hurt. I attempted to wear heels to a party afterwards and my feet began to suffer from "Dunlap Disease" usually this occurs when you eat too much and your stomach done laps over your pants. Well my feet were swelling and done lapping over the sides of my oh so cute heels. So I switched to slippers. They looked great with my dress and pearls.
I may have gotten 8 hours of sleep this weekend...combined.
I'm tired.
I'm skipping a track workout tonight so I can hibernate. Slacker? yeah I agree, but I'm cranky so it's in everyone's best interest for me to sleep.
good night.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Variety is the Spice of Life
Richmond sure is full of variety.
Hmm it could be that we have a large arts community,
but I think it's also because we have an amazing (and under rated) active community.
Did you know that the Richmond Tri Club is the 5th largest in the country?
did you know that Richmond has been home to the WORLD Duathlon Championships?
Did you know that Xterra holds there annual East Coast Championships in Richmond?
Pretty rad if you ask me. (yes, i said RAD. hello 1985)
IronGreg started out his multisport life participating in these Xterra triathlons.
Before I joined TRIgirls, I was all geared up to start mountian biking (which hasn't happened yet).
then this year I watched the East Coast championship. the same day Xterra hosts a sport race - like a sprint - and i saw 2 of my TG's kick some serious ass. So in my Veruca Salt* way, I decided that I wanted to do it too!
And so it begins. Trail running. my BFF Neffaramous (her real name is Missy, but I renamed her since we are 'The Missys'). well she and I hit the north bank trail last night for some trail running and next week it's off to the buttermilk trail. There are so many places for us to find trail running adventures. And she reently bought a mountain bike and I am getting one so then we can start incorporating that into our richmond romp. And one of these days IronGreg is in charge of teaching us how to really mountain bike - liek jump logs. he taught my friends (as I watched b/c i don't have a good enough bike) so we're next!
now let's jsut hope I stay in one piece for IMAZ training!
ps - 16 days until IMFL!! go girls. you are so ready! xoxoxo
* for those unfamiliar with the classic known as Charlie and the Chocloate Factory - Varuca Salt is the girl that is a complete spolied brat: "But daddy I want a golden goose egg and I want it now"and then the little oompa loompas sing "what do you get when your kid is a BRAT? Pamapered and spoiled liek a siamese CAT! oompa loompa doopa-dee-doo..."
Hmm it could be that we have a large arts community,
but I think it's also because we have an amazing (and under rated) active community.
Did you know that the Richmond Tri Club is the 5th largest in the country?
did you know that Richmond has been home to the WORLD Duathlon Championships?
Did you know that Xterra holds there annual East Coast Championships in Richmond?
Pretty rad if you ask me. (yes, i said RAD. hello 1985)
IronGreg started out his multisport life participating in these Xterra triathlons.
Before I joined TRIgirls, I was all geared up to start mountian biking (which hasn't happened yet).
then this year I watched the East Coast championship. the same day Xterra hosts a sport race - like a sprint - and i saw 2 of my TG's kick some serious ass. So in my Veruca Salt* way, I decided that I wanted to do it too!
And so it begins. Trail running. my BFF Neffaramous (her real name is Missy, but I renamed her since we are 'The Missys'). well she and I hit the north bank trail last night for some trail running and next week it's off to the buttermilk trail. There are so many places for us to find trail running adventures. And she reently bought a mountain bike and I am getting one so then we can start incorporating that into our richmond romp. And one of these days IronGreg is in charge of teaching us how to really mountain bike - liek jump logs. he taught my friends (as I watched b/c i don't have a good enough bike) so we're next!
now let's jsut hope I stay in one piece for IMAZ training!
ps - 16 days until IMFL!! go girls. you are so ready! xoxoxo
* for those unfamiliar with the classic known as Charlie and the Chocloate Factory - Varuca Salt is the girl that is a complete spolied brat: "But daddy I want a golden goose egg and I want it now"and then the little oompa loompas sing "what do you get when your kid is a BRAT? Pamapered and spoiled liek a siamese CAT! oompa loompa doopa-dee-doo..."
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Happy Birthday, Xander
My friend Shawna had her baby boy this afternoon. weighing 6 lbs, 1.5 ozs.
Happy Birthday, Xander - Welcome to this wild and crazy world!
Happy Birthday, Xander - Welcome to this wild and crazy world!
Monday, October 6, 2008
"You Guys are BEASTS"
Friday.
Drive 4.5 hours to West Virginia. Set up camp in the dark.
We blow up the full size air mattress and then realize the mattress is quite a bit wider than the tent "door".
Hmmm.
So we let some air out fold the mattress in half and 1 - 2 - 3 PUSH!
Perfect!
Some camp fire time and off to bed we go.
Saturday.
We wake up and damn is cold. My clif bar is frozen! it wsa a jaw work out chewing that thing for breakfast. Especially while watching everyone else eat their biscuits topped with sausage, eggs, and other goodies. Stupid trying to eat healthy. Time to slip (only if it were really that easy) into our wetsuits and splash jackets. PFD's and helmets on and clipped. After a pre-rapid briefing we are in the water - what the day has ahead of us we are soon to find out.
Gauley Season. A glorious thing. The Army Corps of Engineers lets out the dam every so often...
Lucky for us the day we were rafting , the dam was being let out to it's max - 2800. what does this mean? BIG ass rapids. oh yeah.
we climb into the raft. I am seating in the last row with the guide behind me and the guide in training to my side.
we cruise thru a few class 5 and i finally think i have my foot placement. This may be the only time in my life that I actually thought to myself "mm I wish I weighed more so I could stay seated better". Although I never fell out (even though IronGreg refuses to believe so), I definitely fell into the "floor" quite a few times from being bounced around.
the day was coming to a close. and my bum sure was irritated from sitting on a raft in a wet suit for 8 hours! and oh yeah - I had to pee! it's not like in a tri where I can just scootch into the water, no no I had to hold it! yes there was a potty at the lucnch stop - but you people know what it's like to get these things on and off - especially wet! no thanks.
we made it downt he 13 foot drop - success.
then comes a class 3 - and shiiiiiiiiiiit there goes the guide and the guide in training i luckily hold on for dear life and stay int he raft.
why is crashing on the rapids so funny?
we clean up and watch the video (which was puchased so be on the lookout). unfortyunately I have to do that whole training thing so I have to get home. luckily my marathon training girls switched our long run to sunday so I could do this adventure. so after rafting I get bakc in the car for another 4.5 hour trek back home. finally at 11:00 I make i tot my comfy warm bed (Princess was still with IronGreg - she didn't want to come rafting for some reason)
Sunday morning alarm goes off. Good thing we picked 8:00 instead of our normal 7.
we are plannign to do 2 10 mile loops.
koolers are dropped off.
shot blocks are out for refilling.
here we go.
around mile 6 we are at the first water stop and who sees us - IronGreg and his pal. "that doesn't look like running girls" oh poop on you.
we pass the half way mark. feeling good. a guy that we have seen on the nbike multiple times by now passes us again and sayd "You girls are BEASTS". thank you , Mr. Biker guy. we reminded each other of this as we continued the trek. our knees locking up. cramps. thirst. fatigue. but - we are beasts! and i mean with Miso's singing how could not be motivated to keep going?!
mile 14 - fatigue ws setting in.
mile 16 - this sucks.
mile 18 - yeah so I may look like i am 80
mile 20 - woo hoo!
mission accomplished.
palani drive wraps and smoothies (and beer).
Upper Gauley and a 20 mile run - now that's a weekend!
Drive 4.5 hours to West Virginia. Set up camp in the dark.
We blow up the full size air mattress and then realize the mattress is quite a bit wider than the tent "door".
Hmmm.
So we let some air out fold the mattress in half and 1 - 2 - 3 PUSH!
Perfect!
Some camp fire time and off to bed we go.
Saturday.
We wake up and damn is cold. My clif bar is frozen! it wsa a jaw work out chewing that thing for breakfast. Especially while watching everyone else eat their biscuits topped with sausage, eggs, and other goodies. Stupid trying to eat healthy. Time to slip (only if it were really that easy) into our wetsuits and splash jackets. PFD's and helmets on and clipped. After a pre-rapid briefing we are in the water - what the day has ahead of us we are soon to find out.
Gauley Season. A glorious thing. The Army Corps of Engineers lets out the dam every so often...
Lucky for us the day we were rafting , the dam was being let out to it's max - 2800. what does this mean? BIG ass rapids. oh yeah.
we climb into the raft. I am seating in the last row with the guide behind me and the guide in training to my side.
we cruise thru a few class 5 and i finally think i have my foot placement. This may be the only time in my life that I actually thought to myself "mm I wish I weighed more so I could stay seated better". Although I never fell out (even though IronGreg refuses to believe so), I definitely fell into the "floor" quite a few times from being bounced around.
the day was coming to a close. and my bum sure was irritated from sitting on a raft in a wet suit for 8 hours! and oh yeah - I had to pee! it's not like in a tri where I can just scootch into the water, no no I had to hold it! yes there was a potty at the lucnch stop - but you people know what it's like to get these things on and off - especially wet! no thanks.
we made it downt he 13 foot drop - success.
then comes a class 3 - and shiiiiiiiiiiit there goes the guide and the guide in training i luckily hold on for dear life and stay int he raft.
why is crashing on the rapids so funny?
we clean up and watch the video (which was puchased so be on the lookout). unfortyunately I have to do that whole training thing so I have to get home. luckily my marathon training girls switched our long run to sunday so I could do this adventure. so after rafting I get bakc in the car for another 4.5 hour trek back home. finally at 11:00 I make i tot my comfy warm bed (Princess was still with IronGreg - she didn't want to come rafting for some reason)
Sunday morning alarm goes off. Good thing we picked 8:00 instead of our normal 7.
we are plannign to do 2 10 mile loops.
koolers are dropped off.
shot blocks are out for refilling.
here we go.
around mile 6 we are at the first water stop and who sees us - IronGreg and his pal. "that doesn't look like running girls" oh poop on you.
we pass the half way mark. feeling good. a guy that we have seen on the nbike multiple times by now passes us again and sayd "You girls are BEASTS". thank you , Mr. Biker guy. we reminded each other of this as we continued the trek. our knees locking up. cramps. thirst. fatigue. but - we are beasts! and i mean with Miso's singing how could not be motivated to keep going?!
mile 14 - fatigue ws setting in.
mile 16 - this sucks.
mile 18 - yeah so I may look like i am 80
mile 20 - woo hoo!
mission accomplished.
palani drive wraps and smoothies (and beer).
Upper Gauley and a 20 mile run - now that's a weekend!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Upper Gauley
Friday afternoon I am on my way to West Virginia.
(to quote Ace Rafting)
"The Fall Upper Gauley River is simply the best one-day whitewater run in America...period! It's wild. It's big. It's the Super Bowl of Rafting. Come find out why the Fall Gauley is the benchmark by which all the world's rivers are measured."
Sure I've been rafting a handful of times...in high school!!!! I will be spending the day cruising thru 5 class V rapids and handfuls of others....I sure do hope I stay in the boat! Move over Kevin Bacon - here I come!
No worries, I will be back afterwards so I can run 20 miles on Sunday morning!
Glutton? Why yes I am! And I will see you at the finish line, too!
And of course there may be a ride thrown in on sunday afternoon after the 20 miler.
Just for an off season workout dessert. yummy!
(to quote Ace Rafting)
"The Fall Upper Gauley River is simply the best one-day whitewater run in America...period! It's wild. It's big. It's the Super Bowl of Rafting. Come find out why the Fall Gauley is the benchmark by which all the world's rivers are measured."
Sure I've been rafting a handful of times...in high school!!!! I will be spending the day cruising thru 5 class V rapids and handfuls of others....I sure do hope I stay in the boat! Move over Kevin Bacon - here I come!
No worries, I will be back afterwards so I can run 20 miles on Sunday morning!
Glutton? Why yes I am! And I will see you at the finish line, too!
And of course there may be a ride thrown in on sunday afternoon after the 20 miler.
Just for an off season workout dessert. yummy!
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