Okay, I've put a lot of thought into this, and I'm not sure it is quite finished, but it's pretty close.
Since this is my training blog, I'll start with:
Exercise and Fitness
1. Swim - 3 times per week, try Total Immersion lessons
2. Bike - 3 hours or 30 miles per week (minimums)
3. Run - 10 miles per week or C25K (Couch to 5 K workouts)
4. Weights/Yoga/Pilates/Wii Active - 4 times per week
5. Daily Food Diary
6. Daily Vitamins and Calcium supplement
As for the other parts of my life:
Household goals:
1. KEEP TO THE $$$$ BUDGET!!!
2. Weekly perpetual to do list for housework
3. Food plan (monthly) with 2 new recipes per month
Kid goals:
1. Active activity (minimum 1 hour) 5 times per week
2. Craft/Painting/Sand/Misc activity 4 times per week
3. Homeschool Lesson Planning - one week per week
Business Goals
1. 4 new designs/ideas per month
2. 30 items per month to prepare for Christmas sales
3. MARKETING!!!
10 miles per week??? I must be crazy, but after seeing people with the 1000 miles in the year goal, this doesn't seem like that much. I'll be satisfied if I run 500 miles in a year, actually, I will be ecstatic if I run more than 100 miles, since I've never run more than maybe 15 in any one year before. If I do 200, it will be more than I've ever done before CUMULATIVE! Maybe that should have been my goal, 200 miles, hmmm that would be 4/week. Well, I'll leave it at 10 but be happy with 4 :). Since the $$$ budget included a 30% reduction in income, it will be difficult, and I'm sure it will be a struggle, but I'm going to do my best. Okay, I'm ready for midnight, and the start of the new year.
Happy New Year everyone!!!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Plans and Goals Part 1
This is a work in progress
Today I downloaded a few different training plans for Training Peaks, I also mapped out a few of my most common routes when training; home to harvard, home to Plantes Ferry Park, swim at Lakeshore Park. I also looked at the couch to 5 k training program, I'd still like to do this. How do I pick just one training plan and do it, when there are so many that have what I need???
I'm feeling a bit better, it no longer feels like my eye is going to pop out of my head if I bend over, so that's a start! I need to get the wireless speedometer put on my bike, since when it is on the trainer the front tire doesn't spin.
I hear a sick little girl calling my name, so I'd better go.
Today I downloaded a few different training plans for Training Peaks, I also mapped out a few of my most common routes when training; home to harvard, home to Plantes Ferry Park, swim at Lakeshore Park. I also looked at the couch to 5 k training program, I'd still like to do this. How do I pick just one training plan and do it, when there are so many that have what I need???
I'm feeling a bit better, it no longer feels like my eye is going to pop out of my head if I bend over, so that's a start! I need to get the wireless speedometer put on my bike, since when it is on the trainer the front tire doesn't spin.
I hear a sick little girl calling my name, so I'd better go.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Merry Christmas!
Okay, so what was my last post about???
Ah yes, my problem that I believe is a problem...
Well, the results of the sleep study are in, and the diagnosis is... Abnormal arousal (as in waking up :) ) pattern, not associated with restless leg syndrome or respiratory issue. Which means, there is nothing they can do for me. The worst part is that it cost nearly $3,000 for the sleep study, half of which was not paid my insurance. Not a good result, since I'm exactly where I was before, but without a few paychecks.
I did have a follow up with the cardiologist after the stress ekg, since my doctor thought we needed more information. His diagnosis is that I have exercise induced asthma, and now I have an inhaler ($80 more). I've only had the opportunity to use it once, at my birthday party when we were playing Dance Dance Revolution, it seemed to help, but I also took a break, so it's hard to judge. I'm going to do some "testing" with it, go to the gym and do a couple workouts with it and without it, and graph it on the Garmin and see how it looks. I hope it helps.
As for working out, this is the busiest time of the year, and to top it all off, we have had nothing but sick germs around here for a month. Before Thanksgiving, Abby had both ears infected, then we all had a little cough, then two weeks ago, we took turns with the stomach flu, everyone of us, including my parents and grandma, had it. Then once we were all done throwing up, Selena got an ear infection, then two days before Christmas, I got a sinus/eye infection. UGH!
We are all starting to feel better, hopefully enough to get excited about working out. I don't like being one of the January Gym people, the ones that seem to only come in after the holidays, but seriously, I haven't had a minute to spare to get to the gym since before our vacation in August. On another note, I'm still working on goals/schedule for 2011. Hopefully I get it figured out before 2011 is actually here. I'll work on it this week.
Okay, well, I hope all of my readers had a good holiday, and will have a safe new year.
First goal~ be better about keeping up with my blog!
<3 C
Ah yes, my problem that I believe is a problem...
Well, the results of the sleep study are in, and the diagnosis is... Abnormal arousal (as in waking up :) ) pattern, not associated with restless leg syndrome or respiratory issue. Which means, there is nothing they can do for me. The worst part is that it cost nearly $3,000 for the sleep study, half of which was not paid my insurance. Not a good result, since I'm exactly where I was before, but without a few paychecks.
I did have a follow up with the cardiologist after the stress ekg, since my doctor thought we needed more information. His diagnosis is that I have exercise induced asthma, and now I have an inhaler ($80 more). I've only had the opportunity to use it once, at my birthday party when we were playing Dance Dance Revolution, it seemed to help, but I also took a break, so it's hard to judge. I'm going to do some "testing" with it, go to the gym and do a couple workouts with it and without it, and graph it on the Garmin and see how it looks. I hope it helps.
As for working out, this is the busiest time of the year, and to top it all off, we have had nothing but sick germs around here for a month. Before Thanksgiving, Abby had both ears infected, then we all had a little cough, then two weeks ago, we took turns with the stomach flu, everyone of us, including my parents and grandma, had it. Then once we were all done throwing up, Selena got an ear infection, then two days before Christmas, I got a sinus/eye infection. UGH!
We are all starting to feel better, hopefully enough to get excited about working out. I don't like being one of the January Gym people, the ones that seem to only come in after the holidays, but seriously, I haven't had a minute to spare to get to the gym since before our vacation in August. On another note, I'm still working on goals/schedule for 2011. Hopefully I get it figured out before 2011 is actually here. I'll work on it this week.
Okay, well, I hope all of my readers had a good holiday, and will have a safe new year.
First goal~ be better about keeping up with my blog!
<3 C
Monday, November 15, 2010
After the Sleep Study
I slept for the sleep study, but not really well. I hope they got what they needed from the bit I did sleep, I'll get my results hopefully sometime this week. I also have an appointment with the cardiologist this Thursday, but I may cancel due to the financial burden the last two appts have had. Also, from the lack of support. The comment, "I believe that you believe that you have a problem," and "there isn't anything REALLY wrong with you," lead me to feel like those around me think that I'm making too big of a deal of a resting heart rate of 100, with it being 190 when I jog, and sleep walking, talking and eating my way through the cupboards. I guess I really am normal, with no problems but an overactive imagination. I get up for fun to find food and stuff my face with it, so that I can feel guilty about it when I wake up on the couch smeared with chocolate, and crumbs in the cushions. I'm so glad that was cleared up so nice and neat.
You know that pumpkin pie that would have been nice to have after dinner tonight, so sorry, I got up and ate it for fun last night at about 2ish, it was great, I don't remember it, but I'm sure it tasted great.
You know that pumpkin pie that would have been nice to have after dinner tonight, so sorry, I got up and ate it for fun last night at about 2ish, it was great, I don't remember it, but I'm sure it tasted great.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Sleep Study
I go in tomorrow night for the overnight sleep study, it will be interesting to see how it works. I'm looking forward to it, but at the same time I'm worried too. I just want to feel better, so whatever it is that I need to do, I'll do it.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Follow Up
After my follow up appt last Friday with my regular doctor, I'm back to the cardiologist next week. Still not sure what is going on, hopefully I'm just a weirdo and what is going on is normal for me. I also will go in for a sleep study to find out why I'm still sleep walking/talking/eating. It's getting really bad again, I've been up all of the nights this last week, and with the leftover halloween candy, it isn't good. Plus it's getting cold, and when I wake up on the couch with no blanket, I'm not happy!
Maybe, just maybe, I'll get into a working out routine now that things are slowing down (ha ha) and that will make me feel better all the way around. I'm tired of feeling down all the time, I need some good body exhausting workouts to cheer me up!
Maybe, just maybe, I'll get into a working out routine now that things are slowing down (ha ha) and that will make me feel better all the way around. I'm tired of feeling down all the time, I need some good body exhausting workouts to cheer me up!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Appt today
So.. the appointment today went well, I made it 8 minutes 26 seconds on the treadmill. I probably could have gone a bit longer if the speed were turned up faster. It was going an in between speed that wasn't a fast walk, but wasn't a real jog either. My heart rate was 189 when I said enough. I'll find out either the end of the week or Monday what they determine.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Cardiologist
Tomorrow I go to see a cardiologist and do a stress ekg. I'm not excited about it. All the blood work the doctor did two weeks ago came back negative or inconclusive. (I guess I should talk about the doctor's appointment... I've been wanting to go in and have a general check up for years, I know, I know years??? But yes, for some reason or another, I just never made it in. My heart rate has always concerned me. I went in just over a week ago and they ran all kinds of blood tests to check vitamin levels and hormone levels and thyroid stuff. Since none of those showed anything of concern, the next step is to have a stress ekg and meet a cardiologist.)
I'm a little concerned, when I took my dad to his stress ekg appt, they told him he needed surgery immediately and ended up with a triple bypass days later! I'm much healthier then my dad was, and quite a bit younger too :). I'm sure I'll be fine, I'm just a worry wort.
I had another post that I never finished, and didn't post, so sorry, there would have been an update last week saying that I've almost booked up every weekend for next summer! Too much to do!!!
I'm a little concerned, when I took my dad to his stress ekg appt, they told him he needed surgery immediately and ended up with a triple bypass days later! I'm much healthier then my dad was, and quite a bit younger too :). I'm sure I'll be fine, I'm just a worry wort.
I had another post that I never finished, and didn't post, so sorry, there would have been an update last week saying that I've almost booked up every weekend for next summer! Too much to do!!!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Sore Legs!
This weekend, we had to take an unplanned trip to Livingston, Montana to help out some dahlia friends dig their plants. After squatting twice at each plant (130 plants) to mark and label, then again to cut, then again to dig, my legs feel awful! I am getting more and more out of shape every day. Since it is now time to cut and dig the Manito garden and my garden and the garden at the cemetery, my legs are going to be getting quite the workout this week.
I was invited to do the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll (half) Marathon with a friend. I seriously considered it, but I won't be able to do it, it's the first weekend of December, and I already have something scheduled.
I'm still trying to think of some monthly goals for my training. There has been too much going on to sit down and think about it. I also learned that my brother's wedding is going to be the same weekend as the Radiant Lake Tri in June, so I'll not be doing that race again next year. Now, I'll think about adding in the Snake River Tri in April for an early season race. That one is a two day race with the swim in a pool the day before the bike and run. Also, we would have to travel for it... I don't know.
I was invited to do the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll (half) Marathon with a friend. I seriously considered it, but I won't be able to do it, it's the first weekend of December, and I already have something scheduled.
I'm still trying to think of some monthly goals for my training. There has been too much going on to sit down and think about it. I also learned that my brother's wedding is going to be the same weekend as the Radiant Lake Tri in June, so I'll not be doing that race again next year. Now, I'll think about adding in the Snake River Tri in April for an early season race. That one is a two day race with the swim in a pool the day before the bike and run. Also, we would have to travel for it... I don't know.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Back to work!
I'm motivated to get back to working out. After the busy dahlia/fair season, it is finally time to get back thinking about my races. Last night I got back on the Wii fit, after 111 days without a sign-in body test, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I'd lost 2.4 pounds! Not my goal, but nice to hear anyways. I did an EA Active workout with Greg, and it's always a surprise to feel sore 10 minutes into a video game workout! I want to get back to the gym sometime this week, get in the pool for a bit, and on the treadmill for a little Chris style run (fast walk :)). I'd like to do the Hiawatha Trail bike ride sometime before the weather gets too bad as well. So much to do, so little time! I'm waiting to register for ChelanMan next year, I'd really like to do the Olympic distance.. but my brother mentioned that he'd like to do the Try a Tri race, so it would be better to do the Sprint so our events would be the same day... decisions decisions.
Well, I'm going to work on a new training schedule to start now, and have monthly goals, instead of just a schedule starting 8 weeks before the races, and no real goals other than do the workout on the schedule. That will be what I work on in my free time.
Also, I must say, I love my Kindle. I can read whatever I want whenever I want, and I can have it read to me when I can't hold it! LOVE IT!
Well, I'm going to work on a new training schedule to start now, and have monthly goals, instead of just a schedule starting 8 weeks before the races, and no real goals other than do the workout on the schedule. That will be what I work on in my free time.
Also, I must say, I love my Kindle. I can read whatever I want whenever I want, and I can have it read to me when I can't hold it! LOVE IT!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Vacation
We are about to go on our vacation, and I'm excited to go, and get back to get back into training. I have tons of ambition for next year, going to spend the fall/winter months going through the Total Immersions plan, and work on my running (or lack thereof).
While on vacation, I hope to get in some hiking with the family. We aren't taking the bikes with us this time, but we should get some good exercise in Glacier and Banff.
While on vacation, I hope to get in some hiking with the family. We aren't taking the bikes with us this time, but we should get some good exercise in Glacier and Banff.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Wow, it's been a while!
Wow is right, I can't believe time has gone by so fast.
Race the River went well, I had a great time.
Race the River Results... 1 hour 43 minutes 12 seconds...
Compared to last year(1hr42min50sec)~ shorter swim by over a minute, shorter bike by over a minute... 20 seconds off t2, but 20 sec plus on t1... 2.68 minutes longer on the run... and I thought I ran more this time... All in all, an increase of 22 seconds from... last year.
So, now I have a good goal for next year. I plan on using the couch to 5k training method for my running. I need to start it soon. I haven't done ANYTHING to help my training for next year. I've been so busy with work and house stuff that I haven't spent any time on myself. I'm feeling really down, so I need to get back into something. We are taking a long camping trip starting next week. When we get back it will be getting back into training mode once again.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
RESULTS
I forgot to post the results from the race.
Place - 240 (out of 338)
Overall time - 1:51:36
Swim - 21:19
T1 - 2:53
Bike - 42:24
T2 - .55
Run - 44:11
Place - 240 (out of 338)
Overall time - 1:51:36
Swim - 21:19
T1 - 2:53
Bike - 42:24
T2 - .55
Run - 44:11
After the race
I felt pretty good yesterday and today, just a little sore. I'm really tired, and really hungry too. My neck is a bit sore. I don't want to overdo working out this week since I have another race this Sunday. I don't really feel like working out anyways, just sleeping.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
ChelanMan
Today was the big day! It has been such a long day. We are finally home and unpacked, and ready for bed and an update on the race today.
When we got to the lake today, there was quite a lot of wave action going on... It was like swimming off the Washington coast out there. I'm so thankful for the wetsuit, as I probably would have had a really rough swim without it. As it was, the swim took twice as much energy as I usually have to put into it. There didn't seem to be much of the swim that was with the waves, it seemed like we were fighting it all the way till the very last stretch. (Sitting here writing this, I can almost feel the push pull of the waves rocking me... Not a good feeling)
Once out of the water and into transition, I got out of my wetsuit (pretty quickly too!) and got my bike. After the push up the hill out of transition, I got to the top and realized that my shoes were not tight enough and had to stop to get them cinched up. Then when I mounted the bike I couldn't get my feet in the straps, Ugh! I guess I need more practice. The first half of the bike was into a sharp headwind. I would check the spedo on the bike and it would say 8 mph... I was really pushing it up the hills too. Once at the turnaround the bike got easier and I got up to 24 mph. The course wasn't too bad, but I should probably practice on some hills sometime. After returning my bike to the transition, I had the worst part of the race to go... the 5k run. After a little jogging and a lot of walking I met up with a very nice girl from the Seattle area and we hung out together (she had a recent knee injury, so she was walking at about my pace). About half a mile from the finish line, I left her behind and ran the rest of the way (through the crowd where people could see me :) ). At the finish line, I got a medal and a congrats, and got to sit a bit and have a snack. Our after race snacks are much better over here, all they offered were bagels with pb and grapes and bananas.
Times are not posted yet, but according to my watch my time was approximately 1 hour 50 minutes. Slower than Race the River last year, but quicker than Radiant Lake this year. I have a race next Sunday, so hopefully I'll be able to decrease my time for that race and beat my time from last year. I just need to push myself on the run, or push myself harder on the bike so I can walk more... either way, I need to try harder.
I'm off to take a quick bath then ice/myomed my neck/shoulder. Tomorrow is another day!
When we got to the lake today, there was quite a lot of wave action going on... It was like swimming off the Washington coast out there. I'm so thankful for the wetsuit, as I probably would have had a really rough swim without it. As it was, the swim took twice as much energy as I usually have to put into it. There didn't seem to be much of the swim that was with the waves, it seemed like we were fighting it all the way till the very last stretch. (Sitting here writing this, I can almost feel the push pull of the waves rocking me... Not a good feeling)
Once out of the water and into transition, I got out of my wetsuit (pretty quickly too!) and got my bike. After the push up the hill out of transition, I got to the top and realized that my shoes were not tight enough and had to stop to get them cinched up. Then when I mounted the bike I couldn't get my feet in the straps, Ugh! I guess I need more practice. The first half of the bike was into a sharp headwind. I would check the spedo on the bike and it would say 8 mph... I was really pushing it up the hills too. Once at the turnaround the bike got easier and I got up to 24 mph. The course wasn't too bad, but I should probably practice on some hills sometime. After returning my bike to the transition, I had the worst part of the race to go... the 5k run. After a little jogging and a lot of walking I met up with a very nice girl from the Seattle area and we hung out together (she had a recent knee injury, so she was walking at about my pace). About half a mile from the finish line, I left her behind and ran the rest of the way (through the crowd where people could see me :) ). At the finish line, I got a medal and a congrats, and got to sit a bit and have a snack. Our after race snacks are much better over here, all they offered were bagels with pb and grapes and bananas.
Times are not posted yet, but according to my watch my time was approximately 1 hour 50 minutes. Slower than Race the River last year, but quicker than Radiant Lake this year. I have a race next Sunday, so hopefully I'll be able to decrease my time for that race and beat my time from last year. I just need to push myself on the run, or push myself harder on the bike so I can walk more... either way, I need to try harder.
I'm off to take a quick bath then ice/myomed my neck/shoulder. Tomorrow is another day!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Tomorrow is the big day!
Today I picked up my packet for ChelanMan, the park was pretty busy and I got to see lots of other athletes in the park. We played in the river between check in and the meeting and it was fun. When we went back to the park for the pre race meeting, we learned about the course and where to go and what to do... I'm ready, time to get to bed.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Travel Day Tomorrow
Tomorrow I leave for the drive to Wenatchee, where I'll be for a home base for the race weekend. I'm almost all packed, and got my tires put on by a professional today. He said, and I quote, "these are the hardest tires I've ever gotten off a wheel." And then said, "You better hope you don't get a flat, because there is no way that YOU are going to be able to change one." (emphasis by him). Hmmm.... it sounds like a challenge :).
Either way, I'm as ready as I'm going to be, which isn't saying much, because I'm not ready. I'm going to go watch a Total Immersion DVD before bed.
Either way, I'm as ready as I'm going to be, which isn't saying much, because I'm not ready. I'm going to go watch a Total Immersion DVD before bed.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
1.6 minutes!!! And THREE DAYS!!! Yikes
Today I took the new wetsuit out for a spin (swim :) ). I cut more than 1.5 minutes off my half mile! (14:38 for those who saw my time in the earlier post) WOW! I'm finding it a bit difficult to get used to, my rear is so much more buoyant now, that my head doesn't come out of the water as much, and I get a lot more splashes in my face while I'm trying to breath... More practice, more practice, more practice!!!
Greg picked up some tires for me today, and we tried to change our first tire... I'll be going back to the store tomorrow to have them show me how to do it. The video on Youtube was not that helpful.
Greg picked up some tires for me today, and we tried to change our first tire... I'll be going back to the store tomorrow to have them show me how to do it. The video on Youtube was not that helpful.
Wetsuit!
Tuesday~
My wetsuit came today, I was so excited to try it out. Things got a little hectic getting out of the house, and I didn't realize till we were 5 minutes from the lake, that I forgot my goggles :(. I tried out the suit in the water anyways, and it felt so strange! I'm already pretty buoyant in the water, and the wetsuit makes me float with half my body OUT of the water! I did a little swimming around, I feel faster, but it's hard to judge without putting my face in the water. I'll go back after work on Wednesday and give it a real try. I'm pretty excited about it. Just hope it gives me enough of an advantage that it doesn't matter that I run in slow motion!
My wetsuit came today, I was so excited to try it out. Things got a little hectic getting out of the house, and I didn't realize till we were 5 minutes from the lake, that I forgot my goggles :(. I tried out the suit in the water anyways, and it felt so strange! I'm already pretty buoyant in the water, and the wetsuit makes me float with half my body OUT of the water! I did a little swimming around, I feel faster, but it's hard to judge without putting my face in the water. I'll go back after work on Wednesday and give it a real try. I'm pretty excited about it. Just hope it gives me enough of an advantage that it doesn't matter that I run in slow motion!
Monday, July 12, 2010
This Weekend
This weekend I was very busy. Did another open water swim at Coeur d'Alene Lake, swam from the beach to the row of bushes and back (just under 1/2 mile) in 16.14. Tomorrow I'll go back with the wetsuit and try it again! I tried to ride my bike from Post Falls back home, but only made it to Harvard/Liberty Lake trailhead. My neck was really bothering me. When we got home, Greg adjusted my pedals, seat height and position, and my aero bars. I went for a quick short ride and it feels better already. I used some biofreeze on my neck and shoulder and they felt surprisingly better. We also went to CycleSport and WheelSport looking for tires for my bike. Ended up getting a bag for my spare tire and tools, and a CO2 refill kit thing. No tires in my little bike size (650) to be found. ChelanMan 4 days 18 hours...
Friday
An early morning bike ride since I was kid-less this morning. Didn't go nearly as far as I would have liked. I need my neck to feel better!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
I forgot to mention yesterday...
Greg ordered me a wetsuit yesterday, it'll be here on Tuesday of next week, just in time to try it out a few times before the race next weekend. I'll post a picture as soon as it gets here, but for now it is an Xterra Vortex3, sleeveless.
http://www.xterrawetsuits.com/products/womens/wetsuits/vortex-3-sleeveles/
Now, if he reads back through the blog he will remember what else I said I need for the next race.... it rhymes with.... classes.
http://www.xterrawetsuits.com/products/womens/wetsuits/vortex-3-sleeveles/
Now, if he reads back through the blog he will remember what else I said I need for the next race.... it rhymes with.... classes.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Swim!
Today we took the girls to Sanders Beach on Lake Coeur d'Alene. While we were there (the real reason we were there) I did an open water swim. It felt pretty good. My shoulders and back muscles are really sore! I met a group there that are training for the Race the River tri in a few weeks, and I inquired about attending some training sessions. I'll check out their webpage in the morning and see about it.
Monday's Workout
I did swim, bike and walk yesterday. My shoulders were SO sore! I'm very creaky, I'll have to swim everyday to get back even a bit of what I've lost these few weeks. I was so depressed about the state of my fitness that I cried, a lot! I'm not looking forward to the race next week :(
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
No More Excuses
You hear that??? No more excuses, unless I'm unable to move, I will be following my training schedule from here on out, and probably adding in workouts this and next week. I have taken FOUR weeks off now for my neck, my cold bug is almost gone, I'm ready! As soon as it is nap time for the girls, I'm going to go for a quick jog around the back, then finish unpacking from our camping trip. I think we'll do a family bike ride when Greg gets home, then swim this evening. I'm doing the swim, bike, run thing backwards today, but I'm going to do some of each!!!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
I lied...
There is no way I can swim tonight, I can barely breathe! My sore throat turned in to a stuffy/runny nose today and I'm talking like a life long smoker...
Monday, June 28, 2010
Monday
Today I was feeling a bit better, I developed a sore throat over the weekend. I worked an extra long day, but Greg helped me adjust my bike a bit, and I rode it on the trainer on the patio for a while, then did a quick (for me... :) ) quarter mile jog around the grass.
Tomorrow = swim! I mean it this time too!!!
Tomorrow = swim! I mean it this time too!!!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Ugh!
This morning I irritated my neck again. I played in the pool a bit with the girls, but that is the extent of my working out today :(
I hurt, even after icing... I'm going to take some medicine and go to bed...
I hurt, even after icing... I'm going to take some medicine and go to bed...
Friday, June 25, 2010
Why do you do triathlons?
This question can be asked in many ways. Because people are curious about a lifestyle they aren't familiar with, because people can't imagine how much work and effort it is and want to understand, and other positive reasons. The worst is the one from your family and friends asking in such a way to make you feel like it means nothing but a distraction from them, from other responsibilities.
I got into it because I had nothing that was mine, nothing that was just me. I was part of the family, wife, mom, and there was no Chris anymore. I needed something to be positive about, to try for, to succeed at, as ME. I do it to feel good about myself, the training is hard, the motivation is hard, but I continue on even when I don't do my best, because I have a goal for me and it allows me to feel some control over what I do. I HAVE A GOAL!! For this reason alone I should be supported. I should not be questioned about why, in such a way that it is discouraging to me. Be "encouraged" by saying, you don't try hard enough, if you aren't in it to win then why do it?
I do it because I need to do SOMETHING!
In a book I read last night, the most important thing to say is "I AM A TRIATHLETE" So that is going to be my new answer when people ask, why?
So, when you ask me, and I respond by saying, because I am a triathlete, don't get mad, don't be rude, don't discourage (whatever your reason may be). Say~ "That's great, I hope you have a great race!"
I got into it because I had nothing that was mine, nothing that was just me. I was part of the family, wife, mom, and there was no Chris anymore. I needed something to be positive about, to try for, to succeed at, as ME. I do it to feel good about myself, the training is hard, the motivation is hard, but I continue on even when I don't do my best, because I have a goal for me and it allows me to feel some control over what I do. I HAVE A GOAL!! For this reason alone I should be supported. I should not be questioned about why, in such a way that it is discouraging to me. Be "encouraged" by saying, you don't try hard enough, if you aren't in it to win then why do it?
I do it because I need to do SOMETHING!
In a book I read last night, the most important thing to say is "I AM A TRIATHLETE" So that is going to be my new answer when people ask, why?
So, when you ask me, and I respond by saying, because I am a triathlete, don't get mad, don't be rude, don't discourage (whatever your reason may be). Say~ "That's great, I hope you have a great race!"
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Thursday
No swimming, my neck hurts a bit, but my back is really tight. I think too much bending over yesterday. I did walk 2 miles today. Tomorrow I'll do better.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Wednesday Bike Ride
Today I was a little sore from the lifting yesterday, but did manage to go for the bike ride I had planned. We rode for 45 minutes, 6 1/4 miles, with me pulling the girls all but the last hill back to the house. My legs were sore, and I did not like getting back on the mountain bike after riding my awesome tri-bike. I finished the evening with an hour of weeding in the garden and I'm going to try to watch one of my Total Immersion DVDs that I checked out from the library.
Tomorrow = swim!!
Saturday is supposed to be a simulation day, but since I haven't been working out, I'm going to postpone it a week or two (or three..., oh wait, then it will be race weekend!)
Tomorrow = swim!!
Saturday is supposed to be a simulation day, but since I haven't been working out, I'm going to postpone it a week or two (or three..., oh wait, then it will be race weekend!)
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
After the Workout
We went to the gym, I knew I wouldn't be up to the full workout, so we did a circuit of all the machines. I did nearly the lowest weight on all of the upper body things and my neck did get a little sore. Then we did elliptical for 10 minutes, and my legs hurt :(.
24 days, and I will NOT be ready! I got some videos from the library, the total immersion series hopefully they will help to improve my swimming.
Well, I'm off to ice my neck for a while. Tomorrow, I want to swim a bit and maybe get on the bike in the evening if it is a nice night.
24 days, and I will NOT be ready! I got some videos from the library, the total immersion series hopefully they will help to improve my swimming.
Well, I'm off to ice my neck for a while. Tomorrow, I want to swim a bit and maybe get on the bike in the evening if it is a nice night.
Tuesday
Today, I'm going to resume working out! I'm not going to attempt to do my scheduled workout, but I'll do SOMETHING and that is a start! I did yesterdays workout just fine, it was a recovery day... lol :)
Friday, June 18, 2010
Day 10
Today is Day 10 of my neck pain. Mostly it is a dull pain with sharp pains that catch me off guard when I turn my head suddenly or pick up the girls. At my appt today I learned a few new stretches to do. Lets speed this healing up already!!! I took a two plus hour nap this afternoon with my neck pillow, and I feel okay this evening. A few more days and I'm going to go crazy! 29 days till ChelanMan.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
News
I finally got a call back from the ChelanMan registration people, they have switched my registration to the sprint distance. I'm sad, but a little relieved. I have a year to get ready for the olympic race next year, and a two sprint races in 4 weeks... I hope my neck feels well enough to get back to working out.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Pain and Bacon
I walked 2 miles this morning, and I hurt :(.
Pushing the bike trailer stroller was okay until I had to go uphill...
I'm going to treat myself to one of my favorite foods as a treat. Bacon here I come!
Pushing the bike trailer stroller was okay until I had to go uphill...
I'm going to treat myself to one of my favorite foods as a treat. Bacon here I come!
Monday, June 14, 2010
After the appt
I have been banned from working out for at least another week!!! NO swimming, NO biking, NO running. AAARRRGGGG!!!! I am in pain this evening, so it's probably a good thing, but come ON! I'm going to be so behind :(
Afternoon...
I know this morning I said I was ready to start working out... but after sitting at my desk all day, I'm really hurting. I do have a chiropractor appt today at 330, so maybe that will help. As of now, I don't think I'm ready for much working out. Maybe a bit of yoga or walking... we'll see :(
Good Monday Morning!
I'm ready for a new week, and getting back to working out. I'm feeling much better today, a little pain, but well enough to look forward to working out! 32 days 16 hours and 30 minutes to ChelanMan!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Saturday
I'm feeling a bit better every day. I didn't get a workout in today, but maybe tomorrow! 99 readers as of this post. Sorry it's not more interesting, I'll get back to working out soon! :)
Friday, June 11, 2010
Friday
I'm feeling about the same as yesterday. I thought I was doing better this morning, till I vacuumed and did laundry. Now I'm more sore than earlier today. I will think seriously about a little Wii yoga a little later, but don't bet on it :).
I did not hear back from the ChelanMan people about changing my registration. Maybe over the weekend I'll know more.
I did not hear back from the ChelanMan people about changing my registration. Maybe over the weekend I'll know more.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Nighty Night
My second chiropractor appointment since my little injury went much better. I felt bad for Dr. Colby as he says, "I thought about you all last night." I sure hope I didn't ruin his night along with mine and Greg's. It's nice to know that you aren't just a chart, but a person. I can move around a bit more now, still in pain, but at least I can look around. The girls will be home with me tomorrow so I hope that I can handle that.
Also, on another note. I wrote the ChelanMan contact an email today requesting to change my registration from the olympic distance to the sprint distance. I just don't think I'll be ready, especially after this week. I want my experience to be positive, and I'm really scared that I would be unable to finish the race and/or hurt myself trying. I don't know if they will let me or not, I'm crossing my fingers. I'll have to make it my goal for next year.
Goodnight everyone.
p.s. Dr. Colby Smith is with Spinal and Sports Care Clinic in Spokane Valley, I highly recommend him and Dr. Shirley. http://www.spinalandsportscare.com/
Also, on another note. I wrote the ChelanMan contact an email today requesting to change my registration from the olympic distance to the sprint distance. I just don't think I'll be ready, especially after this week. I want my experience to be positive, and I'm really scared that I would be unable to finish the race and/or hurt myself trying. I don't know if they will let me or not, I'm crossing my fingers. I'll have to make it my goal for next year.
Goodnight everyone.
p.s. Dr. Colby Smith is with Spinal and Sports Care Clinic in Spokane Valley, I highly recommend him and Dr. Shirley. http://www.spinalandsportscare.com/
June 10
My neck is feeling surprisingly better, I can move my head to each side a bit and even look up! It was hard to find a comfortable way to sleep, but I managed with help from the vicodin. Today will be more relaxing and keeping it still, and a doctors appt at 345.
Last night we had to make our third trip to the doctor for the day, Selena has an ear infection :(, we had the same nurse and same doctor that I had seen in the morning. She had a rough night, hopefully the antibiotics will make today easier on her.
I got some tri books from the library, so I'll have lots of material to read while I sit around. THAT's how this is going to help my training!
Last night we had to make our third trip to the doctor for the day, Selena has an ear infection :(, we had the same nurse and same doctor that I had seen in the morning. She had a rough night, hopefully the antibiotics will make today easier on her.
I got some tri books from the library, so I'll have lots of material to read while I sit around. THAT's how this is going to help my training!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Did I say awful night??? I meant awful day!
After my earlier post, I seem to have injured myself. After not even being able to dress myself, I called Greg to come home and help me with the girls and take me to the chiropractor. Diagnosis... Cervical sprain, Cervical segmental dysfunction, Thoracic segmental dysfunction, Lumbar segmental dysfunction, Sacral somatic dysfunction, Upper extremity segmental dysfunction. (Really?? that doesn't sound right)
Basically, I can't move my head, AT ALL, or lift my right arm over my shoulder. I'll admit, I cried... especially when the doctor asked if I could lay back on the table (by the way, no, I couldn't do it).
There was nothing he could do for me except massage the muscles to get them to stop spasming, it didn't work. Alternate ice and heat and come back tomorrow, and if the pain is bad, go to urgent care and get a perscription for the pain.
So that's what I did, the second doctor confirmed what the chiropractor said, but said NOT to do ice and heat, that it wont help. Wrote a prescription for vicodin and sent me home to sit and do nothing. He also asked if I would like a neck brace, which I politely declined...
I guess, it will take at least 3 days for this to work itself out, possibly have pain for longer, it all depends.
The one good thing about it is I got a QP with Cheese for lunch, and now I can read or watch tv or sleep the rest of the day.
And for the big question... "How is this going to help my training?"
IT'S NOT!!! None of it is, and I'm not to happy about it.
Basically, I can't move my head, AT ALL, or lift my right arm over my shoulder. I'll admit, I cried... especially when the doctor asked if I could lay back on the table (by the way, no, I couldn't do it).
There was nothing he could do for me except massage the muscles to get them to stop spasming, it didn't work. Alternate ice and heat and come back tomorrow, and if the pain is bad, go to urgent care and get a perscription for the pain.
So that's what I did, the second doctor confirmed what the chiropractor said, but said NOT to do ice and heat, that it wont help. Wrote a prescription for vicodin and sent me home to sit and do nothing. He also asked if I would like a neck brace, which I politely declined...
I guess, it will take at least 3 days for this to work itself out, possibly have pain for longer, it all depends.
The one good thing about it is I got a QP with Cheese for lunch, and now I can read or watch tv or sleep the rest of the day.
And for the big question... "How is this going to help my training?"
IT'S NOT!!! None of it is, and I'm not to happy about it.
Awful Night
I need to figure out a more filling snack, or something. I was hungry before bed, but fell asleep anyways. Then at 1, my darling daughter woke up and was crying, but wouldn't say why, finally by 230 she was back to sleep. The whole time I felt like throwing up, because my stomach was so unhappy. I'm starving this morning! Off to find something to eat!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
End of the day
I hear a QP with Cheese calling "eat me, eat me" and an order of fries doing the same.
I was strong and when I wanted a chocolate snack a little bit ago, I got a calcium chew instead of candy...
The workout this evening was good, I swam 25 laps (1250 meters) and then enjoyed stretching out in the water. A few minutes on the treadmill till Greg and the girls picked me up was nice too. My legs are still tight, and although I'm not sore, when I stretch I ache.
Tomorrow is a bike run transition day, I'd like to take the girls for a ride in the trailer while I ride, so hopefully the weather will be nice enough after work.
I was strong and when I wanted a chocolate snack a little bit ago, I got a calcium chew instead of candy...
The workout this evening was good, I swam 25 laps (1250 meters) and then enjoyed stretching out in the water. A few minutes on the treadmill till Greg and the girls picked me up was nice too. My legs are still tight, and although I'm not sore, when I stretch I ache.
Tomorrow is a bike run transition day, I'd like to take the girls for a ride in the trailer while I ride, so hopefully the weather will be nice enough after work.
Sweaty Jog/Walk
I just jogged half a mile and walked half a mile, it is HOT! Whew, I can really feel it in my legs too. I wish I hadn't lost the ant stick for my garmin monitor, I had to order a new one last night, so I can't even look at my little graphs and be proud of myself... In a few days I'll have a lot to download/upload, whatever it is doing :). My MP3 player was all charged up and I listened to Def Leppard and Van Halen... love those guys!
Breakfast ended up being chocolate chip pancakes, no lunch yet, I'll go figure something out now.
Breakfast ended up being chocolate chip pancakes, no lunch yet, I'll go figure something out now.
USA-Triathlon Tips...
Essential #7: Sunglasses – Eye protection can truly make your race much more comfortable. Have your favorite pair of sports shades ready at T1 and enjoy. (But maybe steer clear of racing in fashion shades; there’s nothing funnier than watching someone cross the finish line in cop shades or their new Dior’s.)
That's me... although my glasses are not new Dior's... just my $10 Kohl's specials... LOL the guy did make fun of me over the mic when I crossed the finish line... Hear that Greg.. now I need new glasses to go with the new wetsuit! :)
http://www.usatriathlon.org/refresh/resources/multisport-zone/multisport-lab/ten-race-day-essentials-for-triathletes
That's me... although my glasses are not new Dior's... just my $10 Kohl's specials... LOL the guy did make fun of me over the mic when I crossed the finish line... Hear that Greg.. now I need new glasses to go with the new wetsuit! :)
http://www.usatriathlon.org/refresh/resources/multisport-zone/multisport-lab/ten-race-day-essentials-for-triathletes
June 8th
I can move this morning! I'm not too sore at all, the girls were good and built pillow forts while watching Dragon Tales this morning, and I got to take a bath! Now to pick up the house and make breakfast... I'm thinking bacon, eggs, and fried potatoes... which probably will translate into Belgian waffles. No strawberries for the top though. I need to get to Costco, I need protein bars and strawberries! Today's schedule indicates Swim workout C and Run workout A.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Sleep
I'm off to bed, I just did 32 minutes of Wii Fit Yoga... I am sore! Hope I can move in the morning!
On a side note, I made a triple berry smoothie with homemade almond milk and flax seed. It was great... I love my new blender that does it all!
On a side note, I made a triple berry smoothie with homemade almond milk and flax seed. It was great... I love my new blender that does it all!
For Sean...
I've had a couple plain eggos, a luna bar (smores) and chamomile tea, pb and j for lunch, with string cheese, and peppermint tea, and dinner was spinach and cheese ravioli and grilled cod, with almond milk and chamomile tea.
I'm still starving... what I really want is a quarter pounder with cheese, a large fry, and a vanilla frosty... I'll probably make a berry and flax seed smoothie and chips with pico de gallo...
I've had a couple plain eggos, a luna bar (smores) and chamomile tea, pb and j for lunch, with string cheese, and peppermint tea, and dinner was spinach and cheese ravioli and grilled cod, with almond milk and chamomile tea.
I'm still starving... what I really want is a quarter pounder with cheese, a large fry, and a vanilla frosty... I'll probably make a berry and flax seed smoothie and chips with pico de gallo...
Training Schedule
Green = Run
Blue = Swim
Red = Bike
Purple = Resistance Training
X= Day Off
B = Blue Zone Training
G = Gray Zone Training
Blue = Swim
Red = Bike
Purple = Resistance Training
X= Day Off
B = Blue Zone Training
G = Gray Zone Training
June 7th, Radiant Lake, The Aftermath
Ah.... I slept okay. I'm a little sore, in the hips, and my leg muscles are super tight. I would have loved to soak in a hot bath, but Selena was up at 6 and I didn't get the chance.
I am starving! I'm going to make some breakfast, and follow some advise I read in one of the tri-training books, I will think the following thing before I eat anything "How is this going to help my training?"
Today on the schedule, I'm supposed to have the day off. I think I'll do a little Wii yoga tonight, and maybe jog a mile around the grass in the back. I'm posting a copy of my planned training, I will try to stick with it as much as possible, and post the actual workouts on the google calendar at the bottom of my blog. I'll also try to figure out how to post pictures...
I am starving! I'm going to make some breakfast, and follow some advise I read in one of the tri-training books, I will think the following thing before I eat anything "How is this going to help my training?"
Today on the schedule, I'm supposed to have the day off. I think I'll do a little Wii yoga tonight, and maybe jog a mile around the grass in the back. I'm posting a copy of my planned training, I will try to stick with it as much as possible, and post the actual workouts on the google calendar at the bottom of my blog. I'll also try to figure out how to post pictures...
Sunday, June 6, 2010
June 6th, Radiant Lake Triathlon
Today, June 6th, 2010 I competed in the Radiant Lake Triathlon in Rathdrum, Idaho. It was a sprint distance race. Last year I did the Race the River Triathlon in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, also a sprint tri, and had a great time. I decided for a goal this year, I wanted to do an Olympic distance race because the sprint seemed pretty easy last year (even though I’m not particularly fast, my body didn’t feel too taxed). So, I registered for the ChelanMan Olympic race on July 17th.
Today was a totally different story from last year’s race. I decided Wednesday night that I should do this race, after waffling about it since it was first announced. I read that the water temperature was expected to be 68 degrees, not warm by any means, but doable. The water temperature was posted at 60 degrees last week. This did sound cold, but since I swim fairly well, and have done longer distances in the pool recently, I didn’t think it would be too bad, I was wrong. I was one of two people out there today without a wetsuit. Everyone looked at me like I was a crazy person, I thought, I’ll be fine. Then the announcer says, “All non-racers need to leave the transition area now. If you aren’t wearing a wetsuit that means you.” Ummm…. Does that mean racers who are too dumb to know better should leave now too? A few minutes go by, and again the announcer says, “If you are not wearing a wetsuit you need to leave the transition area now, all non-athletes must leave the transition area.” Wow! Now he’s talking to me in two ways. He must not realize that I don’t consider myself an athlete either. This did nothing to reassure me that the race was going to be fun.
I wandered down to the water, stuck my feet in, and again got “the look” from most of the other racers. “The look” was the look of shock that there was someone stupid enough to attempt this swim without a wetsuit. I was hoping that I wasn’t the only one, and I wasn’t, there was a man racing who was just in tri shorts and a Garmin chest strap (at least I had my chest strap under my tri suit tank top!).
After the last minute instructions, the gun went off and the first wave of racers started. Three minutes later, a horn sounded and the second wave started. This was it, three minutes to get acclimated enough to the water to begin swimming when the horn sounded again. I treaded water thinking, “I can do this, I can do this.” When the horn sounded I took a breath and started swimming. I made about 15 strokes before I kept my head above water and felt like I was going to pass out. I was seeing pink caps pass me left and right and there was nothing I could do, every time I put my face in the water I felt like I was going to pass out. So I did what I never thought I’d do, I used my last resort, my sidestroke. I was cruising along at about ½ a mile an hour at least being able to breathe. I looked back and what I saw was open water, I was in last place. Looked to my other side and there was one pink cap alongside me, whew, I wasn’t last yet. The horn sounded for the last wave to start, and before I knew it, I was being passed by the purples. I almost gave up, I gave serious thought to doggy paddling to shore and laying there till someone came to rescue me, but decided I’m not quitting yet. Once I rounded the fountain and was headed back towards the starting point, I got into a rhythm with my breast stroke (which I consider my best stroke, and the one I fall back on when I need to catch my breath). I felt pretty good, I was able to get my face in the water and make smooth strokes, I even passed a few people, pinks, and an orange or two! Once I rounded the final corner I started having trouble again. It felt like I wasn’t moving. I didn’t think a headwind made a difference in swimming, but now I know it does. I swam my way to the exit and stumbled up the concrete pad, not even caring that I didn’t smile for the camera person. In transition, I felt like I was a walking ice cube, but I made it to my spot, the girls were there and came up to me and kissed me, I got my feet dried off and shoes on, there were other women near me getting their gear and told me good job. I appreciated the encouragement; I was colder than I have been in a long time. I got my bike off the rack, and pushed it out of transition. When I hopped on, I couldn’t get my foot into my new pedal strap thing, finally got it and started the 13.9 mile ride.
My speedometer wasn’t working, which really bothered me, I like to know how far I’ve gone, so I can talk to myself about being half way there… no luck, I just had to ride and hope for the best. As I left the development area, I saw my in-laws pulling in to watch me race, it was nice of them to come watch, and nice that they got to see me before I was out on the course. I came upon a mile marker sign a while later, I was thinking I was doing pretty well, till I realized that it wasn’t saying two miles left, but that I had only gone two miles…. Ouch! I got through the 11.9 remaining miles by alternately crying and asking myself why I got myself into this mess, and singing a song from one of my girls favorite movies, I’m sure you’ve heard it before, it goes something like this…
We can do it, we can do it, We can help our Cinderelly, We can make her dress so pretty, There's nothing to it, really, We'll tie a sash around it, Put a ribbon through it, When dancing at the ball, She'll be more beautiful than all, In the lovely dress we'll make for Cinderelly
Hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, Gonna help our Cinderelly, Got no time to dilly-dally, We gotta get a-goin'
Ah… Disney saved me again. :) Once the bike was over, which really didn’t end up being that bad, it was back to transition, took off my helmet, grabbed some shot bloks and was on my way. I gave a half hearted jog till I was away from the people, and then walked. I kept an eye on my monitor, and kept my pace at less than a 15 minute mile. Once in a while I’d jog a little bit, but I mostly walked. When I neared the 2 mile mark, a nice lady caught up to me and we started chatting. It was great to have someone to jog and walk with, it helps me motivation wise to have someone with me. Thank you Cassie for helping me keep up the motivation at the end!
I finished the race, I survived, which is saying something because when I was in the water I seriously didn’t think I’d make it. Watching the awards made me feel pretty proud that I had competed with some really great athletes! My final times were: 25:44 swim, 3:55 T1, 55:56 bike, 1:08 T2, 40:14 run with an overall time of 2:06:57. I got 98th place out of 106 athletes, but I finished!
As I was packing up my space, I kept hearing, “great job, I don’t think I could have done it without a wetsuit,” and “You’re the one that didn’t have a wetsuit, right? Great Job!” and other similar compliments, it was nice to hear, and nice to know I made an impression, lol.
On the drive home, I began thinking that an Olympic distance race in 5 weeks probably isn’t the easiest goal, but I’ll up my training and see what happens. I’ll check into avoiding “the look” and getting myself a wetsuit… and maybe start running a bit. And when the going gets tough, I’ll just remember… We can do it, we can do it… hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, gonna help our Cinderelly, GOT NO TIME TO DILLY-DALLY, WE GOTTA GET A-GOIN’
Keep me honest, all you readers, you obviously know me, or you wouldn’t be reading this, so poke and prod and scold me, I need all the motivational help I can get! Stay tuned!
Today was a totally different story from last year’s race. I decided Wednesday night that I should do this race, after waffling about it since it was first announced. I read that the water temperature was expected to be 68 degrees, not warm by any means, but doable. The water temperature was posted at 60 degrees last week. This did sound cold, but since I swim fairly well, and have done longer distances in the pool recently, I didn’t think it would be too bad, I was wrong. I was one of two people out there today without a wetsuit. Everyone looked at me like I was a crazy person, I thought, I’ll be fine. Then the announcer says, “All non-racers need to leave the transition area now. If you aren’t wearing a wetsuit that means you.” Ummm…. Does that mean racers who are too dumb to know better should leave now too? A few minutes go by, and again the announcer says, “If you are not wearing a wetsuit you need to leave the transition area now, all non-athletes must leave the transition area.” Wow! Now he’s talking to me in two ways. He must not realize that I don’t consider myself an athlete either. This did nothing to reassure me that the race was going to be fun.
I wandered down to the water, stuck my feet in, and again got “the look” from most of the other racers. “The look” was the look of shock that there was someone stupid enough to attempt this swim without a wetsuit. I was hoping that I wasn’t the only one, and I wasn’t, there was a man racing who was just in tri shorts and a Garmin chest strap (at least I had my chest strap under my tri suit tank top!).
After the last minute instructions, the gun went off and the first wave of racers started. Three minutes later, a horn sounded and the second wave started. This was it, three minutes to get acclimated enough to the water to begin swimming when the horn sounded again. I treaded water thinking, “I can do this, I can do this.” When the horn sounded I took a breath and started swimming. I made about 15 strokes before I kept my head above water and felt like I was going to pass out. I was seeing pink caps pass me left and right and there was nothing I could do, every time I put my face in the water I felt like I was going to pass out. So I did what I never thought I’d do, I used my last resort, my sidestroke. I was cruising along at about ½ a mile an hour at least being able to breathe. I looked back and what I saw was open water, I was in last place. Looked to my other side and there was one pink cap alongside me, whew, I wasn’t last yet. The horn sounded for the last wave to start, and before I knew it, I was being passed by the purples. I almost gave up, I gave serious thought to doggy paddling to shore and laying there till someone came to rescue me, but decided I’m not quitting yet. Once I rounded the fountain and was headed back towards the starting point, I got into a rhythm with my breast stroke (which I consider my best stroke, and the one I fall back on when I need to catch my breath). I felt pretty good, I was able to get my face in the water and make smooth strokes, I even passed a few people, pinks, and an orange or two! Once I rounded the final corner I started having trouble again. It felt like I wasn’t moving. I didn’t think a headwind made a difference in swimming, but now I know it does. I swam my way to the exit and stumbled up the concrete pad, not even caring that I didn’t smile for the camera person. In transition, I felt like I was a walking ice cube, but I made it to my spot, the girls were there and came up to me and kissed me, I got my feet dried off and shoes on, there were other women near me getting their gear and told me good job. I appreciated the encouragement; I was colder than I have been in a long time. I got my bike off the rack, and pushed it out of transition. When I hopped on, I couldn’t get my foot into my new pedal strap thing, finally got it and started the 13.9 mile ride.
My speedometer wasn’t working, which really bothered me, I like to know how far I’ve gone, so I can talk to myself about being half way there… no luck, I just had to ride and hope for the best. As I left the development area, I saw my in-laws pulling in to watch me race, it was nice of them to come watch, and nice that they got to see me before I was out on the course. I came upon a mile marker sign a while later, I was thinking I was doing pretty well, till I realized that it wasn’t saying two miles left, but that I had only gone two miles…. Ouch! I got through the 11.9 remaining miles by alternately crying and asking myself why I got myself into this mess, and singing a song from one of my girls favorite movies, I’m sure you’ve heard it before, it goes something like this…
We can do it, we can do it, We can help our Cinderelly, We can make her dress so pretty, There's nothing to it, really, We'll tie a sash around it, Put a ribbon through it, When dancing at the ball, She'll be more beautiful than all, In the lovely dress we'll make for Cinderelly
Hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, Gonna help our Cinderelly, Got no time to dilly-dally, We gotta get a-goin'
Ah… Disney saved me again. :) Once the bike was over, which really didn’t end up being that bad, it was back to transition, took off my helmet, grabbed some shot bloks and was on my way. I gave a half hearted jog till I was away from the people, and then walked. I kept an eye on my monitor, and kept my pace at less than a 15 minute mile. Once in a while I’d jog a little bit, but I mostly walked. When I neared the 2 mile mark, a nice lady caught up to me and we started chatting. It was great to have someone to jog and walk with, it helps me motivation wise to have someone with me. Thank you Cassie for helping me keep up the motivation at the end!
I finished the race, I survived, which is saying something because when I was in the water I seriously didn’t think I’d make it. Watching the awards made me feel pretty proud that I had competed with some really great athletes! My final times were: 25:44 swim, 3:55 T1, 55:56 bike, 1:08 T2, 40:14 run with an overall time of 2:06:57. I got 98th place out of 106 athletes, but I finished!
As I was packing up my space, I kept hearing, “great job, I don’t think I could have done it without a wetsuit,” and “You’re the one that didn’t have a wetsuit, right? Great Job!” and other similar compliments, it was nice to hear, and nice to know I made an impression, lol.
On the drive home, I began thinking that an Olympic distance race in 5 weeks probably isn’t the easiest goal, but I’ll up my training and see what happens. I’ll check into avoiding “the look” and getting myself a wetsuit… and maybe start running a bit. And when the going gets tough, I’ll just remember… We can do it, we can do it… hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, gonna help our Cinderelly, GOT NO TIME TO DILLY-DALLY, WE GOTTA GET A-GOIN’
Keep me honest, all you readers, you obviously know me, or you wouldn’t be reading this, so poke and prod and scold me, I need all the motivational help I can get! Stay tuned!
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