damn 64 degree water is cold.
and the sun is hot.
period.
feeling good. don't feel like i am racing tomorrow.
have gotten an amazing amount of support.
miss my puppy.
laying in bed typing is hard. hence the short sentences.
i want a cactus for my backyard.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Packed
My race gear is 95% packed.
Jsut need to add a few items like bottled water that I will get in Tempe.
My clothes are 100% packed.
Just need to add my toiletries on Thursday morning.
My travel clothes for Thursday are all laid out.
The bathroom has been cleaned.
The floors have been mopped/vacuumed.
The laundry has been done.
(some of ) the dusting has been completed.
I have typed up my itinerary for Thursday ending on Monday with my 7am trip to the IM finisher's store.
I have the family grocery list since I get there first. I have to get milk for my FAVorite nephew!
Oh! I need to pack my iPod and camera charger! Let me add that to tonight's list!
Yup, I'm just about ready to go!
Jsut need to add a few items like bottled water that I will get in Tempe.
My clothes are 100% packed.
Just need to add my toiletries on Thursday morning.
My travel clothes for Thursday are all laid out.
The bathroom has been cleaned.
The floors have been mopped/vacuumed.
The laundry has been done.
(some of ) the dusting has been completed.
I have typed up my itinerary for Thursday ending on Monday with my 7am trip to the IM finisher's store.
I have the family grocery list since I get there first. I have to get milk for my FAVorite nephew!
Oh! I need to pack my iPod and camera charger! Let me add that to tonight's list!
Yup, I'm just about ready to go!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Race Week
It's official.
Race week is here.
6 days to go.
I fly to Arizona on Thursday.
My bags are getting packed.
my nerves and anxiety are building.
The miles are in the bank.
I have my plan and I have to stick to it.
I have been worried about the run since the surgery. I ran 5 miles yesterday OUTSIDE and felt good. I am going to try to run a 9:1 interval (run 9 minutes, walk 1 minute). but if I need more, than plan B will be a 4:1 interval. this also helps keep my mind occupied.
Lou and IronGreg will have their running shoes on. Each loop is roughly 8 miles...I hope they are ready to run 8 miles each! haha.
Here goes nothing!
Race week is here.
6 days to go.
I fly to Arizona on Thursday.
My bags are getting packed.
my nerves and anxiety are building.
The miles are in the bank.
I have my plan and I have to stick to it.
I have been worried about the run since the surgery. I ran 5 miles yesterday OUTSIDE and felt good. I am going to try to run a 9:1 interval (run 9 minutes, walk 1 minute). but if I need more, than plan B will be a 4:1 interval. this also helps keep my mind occupied.
Lou and IronGreg will have their running shoes on. Each loop is roughly 8 miles...I hope they are ready to run 8 miles each! haha.
Here goes nothing!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Kiwi
I haven't been feeling well. Turns out I have a respitory infection.
Awesome - just how I want to go into taper.
I have had more stupid things happen like this during training - it's so annoying, but what can ya do, but roll with it.
So as I lay here...
bored out of my mind...
sick as a dog...
coughing my lungs up...
sneezing my brains out...
and blowing my nose so much I look liek rudolph...
I have watched a lot of random TV.
1. The Price is Right is not the same without Bob Barker. I refuse to watch it.
2. I prefer my soap opera on DVR so I can fast forward through the commercials and hurry up to the good drama.
3. I learned yesteday during the 4:00 news that not only do we have 4:00 news, but also that the kiwi has more vitamin C than the orange and mroe potassium than the banana. IronGreg took me to the grocery store last ngiht where I picked up 6 of these bad boys. So now every day until Ironman I will have a kiwi with my airborne after I use my neti pot.
Well off to get the humidifier and back to the couch I go.
GO IMFL GIRLS!
Awesome - just how I want to go into taper.
I have had more stupid things happen like this during training - it's so annoying, but what can ya do, but roll with it.
So as I lay here...
bored out of my mind...
sick as a dog...
coughing my lungs up...
sneezing my brains out...
and blowing my nose so much I look liek rudolph...
I have watched a lot of random TV.
1. The Price is Right is not the same without Bob Barker. I refuse to watch it.
2. I prefer my soap opera on DVR so I can fast forward through the commercials and hurry up to the good drama.
3. I learned yesteday during the 4:00 news that not only do we have 4:00 news, but also that the kiwi has more vitamin C than the orange and mroe potassium than the banana. IronGreg took me to the grocery store last ngiht where I picked up 6 of these bad boys. So now every day until Ironman I will have a kiwi with my airborne after I use my neti pot.
Well off to get the humidifier and back to the couch I go.
GO IMFL GIRLS!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Tired.
Saturday I twisted my ankle as I began my transition run.
Sunday I hit my toe so hard on my nephew's high chair. It almost broke. Crooked and swollen, but no black and blue!!!
Today I ran smack into a chair at work.
I think I need more sleep.
Sunday I hit my toe so hard on my nephew's high chair. It almost broke. Crooked and swollen, but no black and blue!!!
Today I ran smack into a chair at work.
I think I need more sleep.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Here and There
Last weekend was the annual TRIgirl Fall Ironman Camp int he Eastern shore that includes a century ride. I wasn't sure if I was goign to go since I have been out of town so much on the weekends, but decided that the time with my training friends was well worth the time away.
Friday after work I drove the 2.5 hours there. Driving across the 18 mile bridge was crazy! Waves crashign below me in the dark. My car swaying in the wind. Just praying that Diamond is securely fastened on top! Boy was I glad to get out of the car.
Then Saturday morning came. 42 degrees. 16-20 mph winds. and rain. and ltos of it. A coupld of us triend to come up with other ways to train and take advantage of the time and not be in the nasty weather. but we pushed onward and upward. It only rained...for the first 3 hours! It was a slow ride. there was no fun to be found. A handful of people yurned around at mile 25 to get in 50 miles. Myself and 3 others turned around at mile 35 to get in 70 miles. And I am okay with that. no regrets. 4 poeple did the 100 and they were miserable. yeah see not for me. when the fun factor is lost what's the point? i've ridden 112 a few weeks ago. and i have a few more weeks before taper.
Fortunately on sunday sicne there were 20-30 mph winds, I put my bike INSIDE my car for the journey home back over the 18 mile bridge. as I was nearing the bridge there were construction signs warning on the winds and the restriction going over the bridge. driving over the bridge was like a movie. waves crashing against the bidge - hitting my car! it was plain nuts. But I did find out that those who had their bike on top of their cars were stopped. a van had to take their bikes across. so they had to get out. take the bikes off. put them in this random van. then meet the van and put them back on top n the freezing cold. but everyone survived. and the trainign continues. this weekend is a nice "recovery" 4 hour ride.
oh i did run 2:4 on the treadmill at the gym! i was tired after 2 hours though. bored. at least there is a tv to watch. to o bad is it not conected to my DVR at home!
wedding updat:
the date is set.
june 19, 2010 at 2:00pm in Charlotte.
Church, Reception (caterer and cake maker included), photographer, trolley, trumpeter all booked.
website undre construction.
next weekend are the engagement shots to put in the paper and to make the save the date cards.
it's all falling into place.
it's hard planning a long distance wedding!
IronGreg is racing today...but it's tomorrow where he is down under. G'day mate.
I asked for a koala and kangaroo or two to come back in his suitcase, but requested no dingos. he offered a snake and jellyfish from the nasty river he swims in. now if that ain't love...
I am so pround of my FAH (Future Awesome Hubby). Go Team USA!!!! Go IronGreg!!!
Friday after work I drove the 2.5 hours there. Driving across the 18 mile bridge was crazy! Waves crashign below me in the dark. My car swaying in the wind. Just praying that Diamond is securely fastened on top! Boy was I glad to get out of the car.
Then Saturday morning came. 42 degrees. 16-20 mph winds. and rain. and ltos of it. A coupld of us triend to come up with other ways to train and take advantage of the time and not be in the nasty weather. but we pushed onward and upward. It only rained...for the first 3 hours! It was a slow ride. there was no fun to be found. A handful of people yurned around at mile 25 to get in 50 miles. Myself and 3 others turned around at mile 35 to get in 70 miles. And I am okay with that. no regrets. 4 poeple did the 100 and they were miserable. yeah see not for me. when the fun factor is lost what's the point? i've ridden 112 a few weeks ago. and i have a few more weeks before taper.
Fortunately on sunday sicne there were 20-30 mph winds, I put my bike INSIDE my car for the journey home back over the 18 mile bridge. as I was nearing the bridge there were construction signs warning on the winds and the restriction going over the bridge. driving over the bridge was like a movie. waves crashing against the bidge - hitting my car! it was plain nuts. But I did find out that those who had their bike on top of their cars were stopped. a van had to take their bikes across. so they had to get out. take the bikes off. put them in this random van. then meet the van and put them back on top n the freezing cold. but everyone survived. and the trainign continues. this weekend is a nice "recovery" 4 hour ride.
oh i did run 2:4 on the treadmill at the gym! i was tired after 2 hours though. bored. at least there is a tv to watch. to o bad is it not conected to my DVR at home!
wedding updat:
the date is set.
june 19, 2010 at 2:00pm in Charlotte.
Church, Reception (caterer and cake maker included), photographer, trolley, trumpeter all booked.
website undre construction.
next weekend are the engagement shots to put in the paper and to make the save the date cards.
it's all falling into place.
it's hard planning a long distance wedding!
IronGreg is racing today...but it's tomorrow where he is down under. G'day mate.
I asked for a koala and kangaroo or two to come back in his suitcase, but requested no dingos. he offered a snake and jellyfish from the nasty river he swims in. now if that ain't love...
I am so pround of my FAH (Future Awesome Hubby). Go Team USA!!!! Go IronGreg!!!
Monday, October 12, 2009
I said yes.
October 11th.
A day that I will never forget.
It is the day my father lost his battle with cancer - 17 years ago.
This year the memories associated with this day were changed.
It started out as every sunday these days does, with a long run.
Afterwards, though, a group of us were headed to the Charlottesville area to do some wine tasting. Our first stop was King Family Vineyards - my fave.
Our rowdy crew enjoyed the private barrel-room tasting as we checked off who knew wine facts! (Lou). We decided that our next stop will be Veritas. A favorite of some of my friends, but yet I have never been there. As we were getting ready to leave KFV I told Greg that Veritas is special b/c my good friend Barrett proposed to his lovely fiance, Tyler, there.
On our way we passed Pollack Vineyards and made a last minute decision to stop there first. When we got there we decided that after the wine we consumed we should pause for a picnic. We decide that some will go inside and buy a few bottles and I will lay out the picnic. So Miso and Aaron, and IronGreg and I begin to lay out the picnic. Miso and Aaron decide to go check on the wine choices, and Greg and I go for a walk through the vineyards. His palms were sweaty and I am quite curious. We chatted about the memories of the day and how in one second your whole life changes. (not thinking that I am totally setting him up!) As we mosey on around the vineyards, everything is so pretty, so I suggest that we take some pictures (surprise I want pictures). After a few shots, IronGreg asks me to stand under a tree and he will take my picture.
As he takes the picture he takes it on one knee. It didn't phase me at first. Then I walk over to him and look at the pictur e- he is still on one knee.
Fave: Now let me take one of you.
IronGreg: Okay. But I think it would be better if you were wearing...this!
He pulled out the most beautiful ring. A custom design we made together and itturned out bette than I imagined. So beautiful in fact that the designer wants to use it! um don't we have a patent on this design?
So IronGreg asks me to marry him. And what do I say? "For real?" I am so romantic!
He slips the ring on my finger and after lots of hugs and kisses...
IronGreg: So it that a yes?
Fave: Yes! Did I not say yes? oops, of course it's a yes!
We return to the rast of the group who all have been in onthis and are eargerly awaiting our return. Lou has the whole patio toast to our new engagement. there was one couple there celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary and another couple celebrating their 24th!
After allthe excitement and phone calls and rinks and eats at Pollack, we finally make our way to Veritas, where a wedding is about to happen.
At Veritas I have to text Barrett who got engaged here and waddaya know - he and Tyler were sitting on the patio!
we return to Richmond and the FIL's were driving through town and knew what was happening, so we finished the night off with dinner at The Boathouse at Rockett's Landing. Wonderful champagne and more wine of course!
So a day that was filled with sad memories, has been changed in a second. And is now filled with joy and love.
I love you, IronGreg!
oh and when I called my brother he was on the trainer and his response, "so can IronGreg and I wear spandex to the wedding?" oh he's a funny one.
Thank you to all my friends who helped make this day so special. I look forward to the times and memories to come. 
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Catching Up
Life gets away sometimes.
Patriot's HIM
I did half a report.
Ultimately I struggled the whole race with getting over the bad swim.
I did have a good run especially considering it was the longest run post-op.
Somehow...I PR'd.
Chesapeakman AV
I finished.
The Choptank is definitely shoppy. It as the first time I threw up WHILE swimming. I went to go take a breathe and - didn't even know it was coming.
Some poeple threw up multiple times.
I sang a song to myself about being a sock in a washing machine.
I did not get lost.
But was slower than anticipated.
It was longest swim ever, so high five to that.
the bike was windy - my number one nemesis.
But I pushed on through and finished it in 6:45.
Having nothing to go off of, I am ine with this.
Somehow I ended up 3rd in my AG. now there were only 7 people, but hey that means i was in the top 50% which is always my goal.
so high five to that.
Margo and rich got married.
i am back to running on the treadmill for long runs.
i got my dress for Shea and jason's wedding.
i had flu-like symptoms last week and am still weak, but much better and no more fever and can talk again. i rode with mi amigas last night and they kicked my butt. my HR was higher than it should be on the bike. but lower than the 230 it hit on thursday after 10 minutes. (Clearly i got off the bike and called it a day then.)
i started listening to a book on "tape" (iPod) and now I just want to drive around all day. I downloaded a couple books, bu am currently listening to The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks - only about 90 minutes to go. That could get to and fro the outlets...hmmm.
I am going wine tasting on sunday and it can't get here fast enough. i already have my outfit picked out.
well that's about it for now.
back to work.
xo.
M
Patriot's HIM
I did half a report.
Ultimately I struggled the whole race with getting over the bad swim.
I did have a good run especially considering it was the longest run post-op.
Somehow...I PR'd.
Chesapeakman AV
I finished.
The Choptank is definitely shoppy. It as the first time I threw up WHILE swimming. I went to go take a breathe and - didn't even know it was coming.
Some poeple threw up multiple times.
I sang a song to myself about being a sock in a washing machine.
I did not get lost.
But was slower than anticipated.
It was longest swim ever, so high five to that.
the bike was windy - my number one nemesis.
But I pushed on through and finished it in 6:45.
Having nothing to go off of, I am ine with this.
Somehow I ended up 3rd in my AG. now there were only 7 people, but hey that means i was in the top 50% which is always my goal.
so high five to that.
Margo and rich got married.
i am back to running on the treadmill for long runs.
i got my dress for Shea and jason's wedding.
i had flu-like symptoms last week and am still weak, but much better and no more fever and can talk again. i rode with mi amigas last night and they kicked my butt. my HR was higher than it should be on the bike. but lower than the 230 it hit on thursday after 10 minutes. (Clearly i got off the bike and called it a day then.)
i started listening to a book on "tape" (iPod) and now I just want to drive around all day. I downloaded a couple books, bu am currently listening to The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks - only about 90 minutes to go. That could get to and fro the outlets...hmmm.
I am going wine tasting on sunday and it can't get here fast enough. i already have my outfit picked out.
well that's about it for now.
back to work.
xo.
M
Friday, September 25, 2009
C-Man
Yes I know it has been 2 weeks sicne Patriot's HIM and I have yet to finish the race report - I promise I will get to that.
Tomorrow I am doign the longest race to date.
Chesapeakman Aquavelo.
This is a local (well 4 hours away) Iron-distance race, that is not produced by Ironman.
The timing of it is perfect to use the Aquavelo division as a training race for those fall IM's.
2.4 mile swim inthe Choptank river.
* i have been told it's called the Choptank for a reason. It's Choppy.
* I have been advised to wear a long-sleeved wetsuit to avoid the stinging nettles.
* this swim questions why I am doing this particular event.
112 mile ride through Maryland
* well I rode 97 mile about a month or so ago.
* I hope I like my new saddle now that it is postitioned correctly.
I have a fever blister.
I have a stye.
I am all packed and ready to go.
Tomorrow I am doign the longest race to date.
Chesapeakman Aquavelo.
This is a local (well 4 hours away) Iron-distance race, that is not produced by Ironman.
The timing of it is perfect to use the Aquavelo division as a training race for those fall IM's.
2.4 mile swim inthe Choptank river.
* i have been told it's called the Choptank for a reason. It's Choppy.
* I have been advised to wear a long-sleeved wetsuit to avoid the stinging nettles.
* this swim questions why I am doing this particular event.
112 mile ride through Maryland
* well I rode 97 mile about a month or so ago.
* I hope I like my new saddle now that it is postitioned correctly.
I have a fever blister.
I have a stye.
I am all packed and ready to go.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Patriot's Half Iron: A Comedy of Errors
Half Ironman #4 requires just as much attention as #1.
Night Before...
Plan:
Leave work around 5:00.
Ride for 30 minutes.
Run for 20 minutes.
Bring bike to IronGreg's so he can clean and lube the chain.
IronGreg to kindly make Chicken and Rice pre-race dinner.
Go home and pack.
Bed at 9:00.
What really happened:
Left work around 6:30.
Rode on trainer for 25 minutes.
Call IronGreg to give him the "get dinner ready" call as he asked em to do.
Ran 2 miles - about 18 minutes.
Bring bike to IronGreg's about 8:15 - behind schedule.
Dinner has not been started.
9:00 - eat dinner.
9:30 - get home and pack. almost forgot what to pack...like a race belt!
10:30 - finally go to bed.
Race Morning...
The Plan
3:30 - wake up, eat oatmeal
4:00 - pack car
4:15 - leave
4:30 - meet Zona to combine cars and hit road to race. eat bar.
5:30 - arrive at race site. packet-pick up.
What Really Happened
3:45 - wake up, eat oatmeal.
4:15 - pack car
4:20 - leave
4:45 - get on road to race. eat bar.
5:45 arrive at race.
It was SOOO dark. Grass in parking was cold and wet in my flipper floppers.
I get my packet and my chip. I will put my stuff down then come back for body marking.
I find my rack and set everything up. Perfect. Then I realize the rack next to me is higher numbers than mine. Hmm I am on the rack for 145-150. Oh but I am 144. Darn it!
One row down - other end. Drat! the guy next to me offers to help me move my stuff, but I put on my big girl panties and deal with it. Set up at my new spot, fortunately still ont he end of the rack. I go to put my aerobottle on and hmm I am missing a rubber band. well I had it earlier. Must be at the other biek rack. but i can't see anything because it's so damn dark! I'll get to that later. I keep setting everything up. time to put my ship on my strap. Hmm where's the chip. I must have put it in my packet. SherpaLynn took that to the car already - ack! She brings back the bag. It's nto int here! Insert expletive. Sherpa Lynn plays the part of Favey and is able to get me a replacement ship - shew. disaster averted. now I can go to the bathroom. I am SO behind schedule now. Oh and I found the rubber band at the other rack. Everyone is heading down to the stat - sheisty I don't even have my wetsuit on! I get donw there and realize that I left my pre-swiim shot block at my bag - oh well, too late now. I am talking with my friends when IronLynn tells G and I that our wave is in the water - insert expletive. Run down and make it in with about 30 seconds befor ethe gun goes off - so much for warming up!
The Swim...
The Plan
Swim around before the race to warm up.
Work on pushing it harder than I usually do.
Draft.
Sight. Trying nto to tred water to get my bearings, but keep it going smoothly.
What Really Happened
I got int he water in jsut enough time to start the race.
No warming up.
I kept up a good pace and was in a pack - never swam in quite a pack before, since I usually try to pull away to find my rhythm without getting knocked around. I kept telling myself that's not going to be possilbe at IMAZ so I need to practice now. And so I did.
Sighting was going well. I thought the buoys were a little far apart, but I was able to keep in line with them.
I passed two orange buoys and then came the yellow one - time to turn left.
I love making turns, it's like I hit a mini-milestone or something. I breathe a sigh of relief.
I saw a could more orange buoys and kept them on my left. The pack was thinning out some, but I was still in a good group. Someone was all up in my feet - I mean we all want to draft, but damn stop pulling my feet under. Kick. See ya later. Okay here's comes the next yellow buoy, another left turn.
And where do I go from here? Hmmm.
Everyone is everywhere.
Well the buoys are way to my left and people are way to my right AND to my left. Expletive. Expletive. Expletive.
Okay right before the race Coach G was telling a new open water swimmer how you shoudl nto follow people but stay on course yourself, so that's what I should do - glad I heard that reminder. I will swim over to the orange buoys.
I felt like Dory in Finding Nemo. Swimming Swimming Swimming.
then I realize the fate of my swim.
Thsoe buoys to my left - yeah those are the ones we used to get out for the first leg of the swim.
Insert major expletive.
Keep pushing hard. (err pulling hard)
Finally I see the yellow wiggly man on shore.
Then some kayaker tells me I should move for a boat. yeah F-you woman, I am swimming here.
I stand up and look at my watch.
I will not repeat what I said.
There was a guy from the race production company on shore - I let him know how I felt.
So guess how many buiys directed you back in?
ZERO!
I was running up towards transition and saw 2 of my girls, Lou and KO. It was all I could do to hold back the tears as I gave them the thumbs down with my best pouty face.
I am STILL spitting nails. I have worked so hard on my swimming for this?!
Official Swim Time: 55:09
A/G: 25/29 86%
* This is the LONGEST HIM swim I have done. I recently swam a lap of the IMUSA course in 38 mintues WITH my coach messing with me. Now I know this course has current. People I usually swim with hit 41-44 mintues. So I assume I was about 10 minutes off.
The Bike...
The Plan
The plan was simple. Push it harder than I am used to.
Night Before...
Plan:
Leave work around 5:00.
Ride for 30 minutes.
Run for 20 minutes.
Bring bike to IronGreg's so he can clean and lube the chain.
IronGreg to kindly make Chicken and Rice pre-race dinner.
Go home and pack.
Bed at 9:00.
What really happened:
Left work around 6:30.
Rode on trainer for 25 minutes.
Call IronGreg to give him the "get dinner ready" call as he asked em to do.
Ran 2 miles - about 18 minutes.
Bring bike to IronGreg's about 8:15 - behind schedule.
Dinner has not been started.
9:00 - eat dinner.
9:30 - get home and pack. almost forgot what to pack...like a race belt!
10:30 - finally go to bed.
Race Morning...
The Plan
3:30 - wake up, eat oatmeal
4:00 - pack car
4:15 - leave
4:30 - meet Zona to combine cars and hit road to race. eat bar.
5:30 - arrive at race site. packet-pick up.
What Really Happened
3:45 - wake up, eat oatmeal.
4:15 - pack car
4:20 - leave
4:45 - get on road to race. eat bar.
5:45 arrive at race.
It was SOOO dark. Grass in parking was cold and wet in my flipper floppers.
I get my packet and my chip. I will put my stuff down then come back for body marking.
I find my rack and set everything up. Perfect. Then I realize the rack next to me is higher numbers than mine. Hmm I am on the rack for 145-150. Oh but I am 144. Darn it!
One row down - other end. Drat! the guy next to me offers to help me move my stuff, but I put on my big girl panties and deal with it. Set up at my new spot, fortunately still ont he end of the rack. I go to put my aerobottle on and hmm I am missing a rubber band. well I had it earlier. Must be at the other biek rack. but i can't see anything because it's so damn dark! I'll get to that later. I keep setting everything up. time to put my ship on my strap. Hmm where's the chip. I must have put it in my packet. SherpaLynn took that to the car already - ack! She brings back the bag. It's nto int here! Insert expletive. Sherpa Lynn plays the part of Favey and is able to get me a replacement ship - shew. disaster averted. now I can go to the bathroom. I am SO behind schedule now. Oh and I found the rubber band at the other rack. Everyone is heading down to the stat - sheisty I don't even have my wetsuit on! I get donw there and realize that I left my pre-swiim shot block at my bag - oh well, too late now. I am talking with my friends when IronLynn tells G and I that our wave is in the water - insert expletive. Run down and make it in with about 30 seconds befor ethe gun goes off - so much for warming up!
The Swim...
The Plan
Swim around before the race to warm up.
Work on pushing it harder than I usually do.
Draft.
Sight. Trying nto to tred water to get my bearings, but keep it going smoothly.
What Really Happened
I got int he water in jsut enough time to start the race.
No warming up.
I kept up a good pace and was in a pack - never swam in quite a pack before, since I usually try to pull away to find my rhythm without getting knocked around. I kept telling myself that's not going to be possilbe at IMAZ so I need to practice now. And so I did.
Sighting was going well. I thought the buoys were a little far apart, but I was able to keep in line with them.
I passed two orange buoys and then came the yellow one - time to turn left.
I love making turns, it's like I hit a mini-milestone or something. I breathe a sigh of relief.
I saw a could more orange buoys and kept them on my left. The pack was thinning out some, but I was still in a good group. Someone was all up in my feet - I mean we all want to draft, but damn stop pulling my feet under. Kick. See ya later. Okay here's comes the next yellow buoy, another left turn.
And where do I go from here? Hmmm.
Everyone is everywhere.
Well the buoys are way to my left and people are way to my right AND to my left. Expletive. Expletive. Expletive.
Okay right before the race Coach G was telling a new open water swimmer how you shoudl nto follow people but stay on course yourself, so that's what I should do - glad I heard that reminder. I will swim over to the orange buoys.
I felt like Dory in Finding Nemo. Swimming Swimming Swimming.
then I realize the fate of my swim.
Thsoe buoys to my left - yeah those are the ones we used to get out for the first leg of the swim.
Insert major expletive.
Keep pushing hard. (err pulling hard)
Finally I see the yellow wiggly man on shore.
Then some kayaker tells me I should move for a boat. yeah F-you woman, I am swimming here.
I stand up and look at my watch.
I will not repeat what I said.
There was a guy from the race production company on shore - I let him know how I felt.
So guess how many buiys directed you back in?
ZERO!
I was running up towards transition and saw 2 of my girls, Lou and KO. It was all I could do to hold back the tears as I gave them the thumbs down with my best pouty face.
I am STILL spitting nails. I have worked so hard on my swimming for this?!
Official Swim Time: 55:09
A/G: 25/29 86%
* This is the LONGEST HIM swim I have done. I recently swam a lap of the IMUSA course in 38 mintues WITH my coach messing with me. Now I know this course has current. People I usually swim with hit 41-44 mintues. So I assume I was about 10 minutes off.
The Bike...
The Plan
The plan was simple. Push it harder than I am used to.
Friday, September 11, 2009
HIM
tomorrow I am doing Patriot's Half-Ironman.
I haven't done a full triathlon since Timberman 70.3....OVER A YEAR AGO!
this will be interesting.
I am looking forward to it.
i kept forgetting about it until a few days ago when it started looming.
So last night I decided I should unpack from vacation so I can pack for the race.
That's a good start.
I would also like to take a moment to reflect on this day.
We will never forget.
I haven't done a full triathlon since Timberman 70.3....OVER A YEAR AGO!
this will be interesting.
I am looking forward to it.
i kept forgetting about it until a few days ago when it started looming.
So last night I decided I should unpack from vacation so I can pack for the race.
That's a good start.
I would also like to take a moment to reflect on this day.
We will never forget.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Here and There
I haven't posted any animal sighting recently.
Why?
Because I haven't seen any.
I rode in Williamsburg. Nothing.
I rode in the East End. Nothing.
I rode in Florida. I saw some ocean birds. And a couple dead snakes.
Riding in Florida is hard.
It's flat. Like really flat. the only hills were going up and over the bridges to go from island-to-island. And you would have thought a hurricane was coming with all of that wind. Holy Wind, Batman. That was the longest three-hour ride of my life. IronGreg was a good boyfriend and waited for me to catch up every few miles. He even stopped for me to take a picture of a pretty and historic home.
And just to get himself extra brownie points (you would think he was in trouble!), he even did the 20 minute t-run with 3:00/2:00 intervals with me afterwards.
I did make my long run down there. It wasn't as long (or as fast) as I would have liked, but it is in the books. Mission Accomplished. Now off to the beach.
While I was in Amelia Island, I received a phoen call from United saying that my flight schedule to IMAZ was changed and I needed to call them back. What?! Yeah, I'm on vacation. I'll deal with this next week. So that is what I jsut did.
I called United.
they told me even though I booked through United (thanks to kayak.com), they were IS Airways flights, so I needed to call them regarding the change.
So I call US Airways.
They tell me that since I booked through United I need to talk with United regarding the change.
Um. yeah. NO.
I tell them that they need to call United and we will jsut have a little conference call.
And so they did.
And after about 30+ moinutes of airline drama. The flight change - 3 minutes! Are you f*in kidding me?! you wasted my time for this?!
however, while I was on hold constantly I made my reservations with TriBike Transport. So Diamond is scheduled to make her way to IMAZ. I wish I could attach a camera on her to track her trek.
Friday.
Friday is 9/11. A day we will never forget.
But nto only is it a day to remember those we lost, it is also a day to celebrate.
Celebrate what?
My friend Jason's birthday.
And also my dear gal-pal Lou's birthday.
so to celebrate Lou, tonight we are hitting up the National (cool concert venue) for an AC/DC tribute band. Rock and Roll.
Why?
Because I haven't seen any.
I rode in Williamsburg. Nothing.
I rode in the East End. Nothing.
I rode in Florida. I saw some ocean birds. And a couple dead snakes.
Riding in Florida is hard.
It's flat. Like really flat. the only hills were going up and over the bridges to go from island-to-island. And you would have thought a hurricane was coming with all of that wind. Holy Wind, Batman. That was the longest three-hour ride of my life. IronGreg was a good boyfriend and waited for me to catch up every few miles. He even stopped for me to take a picture of a pretty and historic home.
And just to get himself extra brownie points (you would think he was in trouble!), he even did the 20 minute t-run with 3:00/2:00 intervals with me afterwards.
I did make my long run down there. It wasn't as long (or as fast) as I would have liked, but it is in the books. Mission Accomplished. Now off to the beach.
While I was in Amelia Island, I received a phoen call from United saying that my flight schedule to IMAZ was changed and I needed to call them back. What?! Yeah, I'm on vacation. I'll deal with this next week. So that is what I jsut did.
I called United.
they told me even though I booked through United (thanks to kayak.com), they were IS Airways flights, so I needed to call them regarding the change.
So I call US Airways.
They tell me that since I booked through United I need to talk with United regarding the change.
Um. yeah. NO.
I tell them that they need to call United and we will jsut have a little conference call.
And so they did.
And after about 30+ moinutes of airline drama. The flight change - 3 minutes! Are you f*in kidding me?! you wasted my time for this?!
however, while I was on hold constantly I made my reservations with TriBike Transport. So Diamond is scheduled to make her way to IMAZ. I wish I could attach a camera on her to track her trek.
Friday.
Friday is 9/11. A day we will never forget.
But nto only is it a day to remember those we lost, it is also a day to celebrate.
Celebrate what?
My friend Jason's birthday.
And also my dear gal-pal Lou's birthday.
so to celebrate Lou, tonight we are hitting up the National (cool concert venue) for an AC/DC tribute band. Rock and Roll.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
800's
Last night I went to track! First time since the fasciotomy!
I was not surprised that I had lost speed.
I was surprised with how much I was able to maintain.
I was not surprised that I had lost speed.
I was surprised with how much I was able to maintain.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Why Did the Turtle Cross the Road?
This weekend's animal count:
Deer............................5
Butterfly....................2
Bunnies......................2
Snake Alive...............1
Same snake dead.....1
Bald Eagles...............0
Turtle........................1
Thank you to "miso" for stopping halfway up the hill for a "Turtle Intervention". the turtle was safely placed on the side of the road.
Although we were hoping for a good Raptor sighting, there was none.
"Lou" was on duty to count birds and squirrels. I will update with her count when I receive the final tally.
why do we count animals you may be asking? Well, as we train for our Ironmans (Florida and Arizona) we get what we call "ride drunk" and "run drunk", so we come up with means of entertainment.
This weekend was a 5.5 hour / 97 mile ride. A new distance for me. I did 3 loops (2 with friends, and 1 on my own), and after each loop I write down my splits and reset my computer. So you can imagine my excitement and disappointment when I got home and realized I rode 97 miles. my longest distance ever - whoo-hoo, but man I would have gone 3 more miles to hit my first triple digit ride.
We introduced some friends to the "Amiga Alphabet Game". the overall winner was Miso with "Ann Arbor" for cities that start witht he letter A. We did have some good items for the category "Things you pack for vacation" with the letter D, but, well, some things are better not on the blog.
Tonight I go back to track for the first time post-op. I have done some minor speed work, but now an hour's worth with Coach K telling me to correct my form. Yesteday we told her we were all going to show up in out bikinis to track since it is so hot outside, but well, that would not be good for any party involved, so normal running attire it is.
Deer............................5
Butterfly....................2
Bunnies......................2
Snake Alive...............1
Same snake dead.....1
Bald Eagles...............0
Turtle........................1
Thank you to "miso" for stopping halfway up the hill for a "Turtle Intervention". the turtle was safely placed on the side of the road.
Although we were hoping for a good Raptor sighting, there was none.
"Lou" was on duty to count birds and squirrels. I will update with her count when I receive the final tally.
why do we count animals you may be asking? Well, as we train for our Ironmans (Florida and Arizona) we get what we call "ride drunk" and "run drunk", so we come up with means of entertainment.
This weekend was a 5.5 hour / 97 mile ride. A new distance for me. I did 3 loops (2 with friends, and 1 on my own), and after each loop I write down my splits and reset my computer. So you can imagine my excitement and disappointment when I got home and realized I rode 97 miles. my longest distance ever - whoo-hoo, but man I would have gone 3 more miles to hit my first triple digit ride.
We introduced some friends to the "Amiga Alphabet Game". the overall winner was Miso with "Ann Arbor" for cities that start witht he letter A. We did have some good items for the category "Things you pack for vacation" with the letter D, but, well, some things are better not on the blog.
Tonight I go back to track for the first time post-op. I have done some minor speed work, but now an hour's worth with Coach K telling me to correct my form. Yesteday we told her we were all going to show up in out bikinis to track since it is so hot outside, but well, that would not be good for any party involved, so normal running attire it is.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Why Did the Turkey Cross the Road?
Saturday's ride was filled with animals.
Not just the handfuls of cows (moooo) and hoseys (naaaaay), that live on the farms we ride past (although they smell really foul at times, we are pretty lucky to ride past them).
This weekend we also encountered:
Deer...............8 (2 of which were bucks)
Rabbits..........2
Chipmunks....1
Groundhogs...2 (which were close to taking us out)
And the winner of all wild animal sightings...
Wild Turkey...1
No, I am not referring to a post-ride detour at the ABC store for a quick fifth.
But a gobbling Turkey.
He strutted his stuff across the street right in front of us.
(and yes it was a "he" b/c of the way he was strutting his stuff...much like a peacock does)
Had he been any slower, well then I would be celebrating Thanksgiving a little early this year.
Gobble! Gobble!
Not just the handfuls of cows (moooo) and hoseys (naaaaay), that live on the farms we ride past (although they smell really foul at times, we are pretty lucky to ride past them).
This weekend we also encountered:
Deer...............8 (2 of which were bucks)
Rabbits..........2
Chipmunks....1
Groundhogs...2 (which were close to taking us out)
And the winner of all wild animal sightings...
Wild Turkey...1
No, I am not referring to a post-ride detour at the ABC store for a quick fifth.
But a gobbling Turkey.
He strutted his stuff across the street right in front of us.
(and yes it was a "he" b/c of the way he was strutting his stuff...much like a peacock does)
Had he been any slower, well then I would be celebrating Thanksgiving a little early this year.
Gobble! Gobble!
Friday, August 7, 2009
TWICE
TWICE this week I have run for 10 minutes straight!
Tuesday after my ride, I did a transition run for 11:29 minutes! (1.3 miles)
And last night after swimming I did 10 minute intervals on the treadmill.
Very exciting!
Tuesday after my ride, I did a transition run for 11:29 minutes! (1.3 miles)
And last night after swimming I did 10 minute intervals on the treadmill.
Very exciting!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Running Away
Sunday I was supposed to do my long "run".
I have recently gone up to 20 minutes of intervals: 3:00 running with 2:00 walking (keeps it at an even 5 minutes which is easier to keep track of while in action).
So my plan was to do 20 minutes on the treadmill of my sweet interval action. Then hit the trusty elliptical for 50 minutes.
I was sore from a great bike ride on saturday, so I decided an easy swim would be good to stretch out prior to running.
Man I can be so smart sometimes!
I hopped on the treadmill. got into my 3:00/2:00 rhythm while watching Ace Ventura.
Next thing I know 60 minutes have gone by...and I felt great! I didn't want to stop, but I knew I had to. (um clearly I have lost my mind)
Monday comes and I venture on over to see Dr. Z for my next post-op appointment.
He has a new PA, Logan. nice kid. First time I felt old in this situation. Liek is this kid old enough to have gradtuated? Maybe I should call him Doogie. (ah. I love NPH)
Anywho. Prior to Dr. Z coming in the room I hear him telling Doogie about my surgical history and how I am an "accomplished and amazing triathlete". I wanted to laugh out loud. I have this guy FOOLED!
Well Dr. Z said the discoloration behind my knee is fine (if you say so. you're the expert here). Overall he ws FILLEd with good news...
1. I can run for TEN mintures straight and begin to build up from there!
2. I can do intervals for as long as I want.
3. no more post-op visits! (which means no more co-pays whoohoo!)
He said for me to call him if I need anything. I said, "Dr. Z, no offense, but I hope I don't ever have to call you again." Good thing he thinks I'm funny (glad someone does haha).
He told me to send him all my race clippings to post on the board.
Right. I'll do that from all my podium finishes.....
I have to say that I have really enjoyed the relationship I have developed with Dr. Z - I trust his medical opinion and I know he only wants me to get better, the right way. His team are all such great docs. I might have to visit him from time-to time. maybe not.
I have recently gone up to 20 minutes of intervals: 3:00 running with 2:00 walking (keeps it at an even 5 minutes which is easier to keep track of while in action).
So my plan was to do 20 minutes on the treadmill of my sweet interval action. Then hit the trusty elliptical for 50 minutes.
I was sore from a great bike ride on saturday, so I decided an easy swim would be good to stretch out prior to running.
Man I can be so smart sometimes!
I hopped on the treadmill. got into my 3:00/2:00 rhythm while watching Ace Ventura.
Next thing I know 60 minutes have gone by...and I felt great! I didn't want to stop, but I knew I had to. (um clearly I have lost my mind)
Monday comes and I venture on over to see Dr. Z for my next post-op appointment.
He has a new PA, Logan. nice kid. First time I felt old in this situation. Liek is this kid old enough to have gradtuated? Maybe I should call him Doogie. (ah. I love NPH)
Anywho. Prior to Dr. Z coming in the room I hear him telling Doogie about my surgical history and how I am an "accomplished and amazing triathlete". I wanted to laugh out loud. I have this guy FOOLED!
Well Dr. Z said the discoloration behind my knee is fine (if you say so. you're the expert here). Overall he ws FILLEd with good news...
1. I can run for TEN mintures straight and begin to build up from there!
2. I can do intervals for as long as I want.
3. no more post-op visits! (which means no more co-pays whoohoo!)
He said for me to call him if I need anything. I said, "Dr. Z, no offense, but I hope I don't ever have to call you again." Good thing he thinks I'm funny (glad someone does haha).
He told me to send him all my race clippings to post on the board.
Right. I'll do that from all my podium finishes.....
I have to say that I have really enjoyed the relationship I have developed with Dr. Z - I trust his medical opinion and I know he only wants me to get better, the right way. His team are all such great docs. I might have to visit him from time-to time. maybe not.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Cool Picture
Thanks to my swim buddy, Dealio, for this great shot of IronGreg coming in to T2 at IMUSA
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)