So, I had my bike fit done the other day...these are the things I have learned...my seat was ENTIRELY way to high and my right leg is longer than my left leg...I was a challenge...go figure, I am not normal...again. I am confident, that the "fit" will aide in my goal to "not suck on the bike" for the 2013 season :-). I know I need to work on my pedal stroke efficiency...that is the biggest issue that I have as of right now. This will only be improved by more time on my ACTUAL bike (I keep telling myself - love the trainer rides, the trainer is your friend - yes I did type that). I must say that really appreciated all the time that Mike Norton put into my fit, so definite props go out to him!! And props out to Blake who makes those trainer rides beneficial to not sucking on the bike and interesting so I don't get bored :-).
Enjoyed the team ride on Saturday...It was fun. I was able to talk to some of the ladies on the and get to know them better. Good times :D. Again, reinforces that I made a great decision!! At the ride, Blake had 3 groups, group 1, 2 and the sick group...ummmm, that was me, so kept the heart rate in check, so no worries on the intensity being too high. The time flew by, so that was REALLY nice! Hoping I can make it for another one in the next few weeks.
Recovery week this week. Have few key workouts that I need to do, but the majority of the training is relatively relaxed. Perfect for this chica as it is a busy work week for me too. Getting everything taken care of to get the ball rolling for the Spin-A-Thon at the club that is coming up in a couple of months. An amazing cause and big fun too!!!! I'll post info about it next week :-).
Also this week, I am adding another component to my training regiment. I'll be having my first sports massage, and am looking forward to it. With the upcoming increasing hours pounding the pavement, time spent on the bike and lengths that will be need to get done in the pool, I'm adding massage as an aide to my recovery and to help keep myself injury free. It adds another piece to the triathlon budget...which seems to be never ending ;-), But it is what it is. I do have a few more things to take care of financially as far as gear and races go...I'll spread the "love" out a little to keep the budget and checkbook in a happy place. This is where it would be nice if I were a wicked fast athlete and was lucky enough to have a sponsor to bless me with all of my "needs" ;-). Companies, however, don't really sponsor middle (and that may be a generous term) of the pack athletes ;-). My other option is to grow a money tree out in the back yard. If anyone has an "in" as to where I could get one of those please let me know ;-).
Off to make some quinoa and black bean chili for the "big game" tonight. Looking forward to the commercials :-). And for Marrianne, go 49er's!!!!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Rest, Training and Comparing...
Well, after officially getting told I have bronchitis and pneumonia, I have been sleeping A LOT!! Nap yesterday and in bed by 7:50...yes, 7:50. I think i was asleep by 8:00pm and slept like a rock until B's alarm went off this morning. This afternoon another nap. This bod apparently needs some rest. I do think the Z-PAC is working :-), so that is good. I am going to ride with the team this weekend...may have to modify, but I am excited and looking forward to it!!
I just checked my Training Peaks account and saw my next training block. Let's hope I can keep the sickness at bay and continue to get stronger. It should be interesting, a challenge AND fun all at the same time. Some of the lingo is still a bit of a mystery to me, so there will be a few emails sent out wondering what the heck he is talking about :-).
I do still vividly remember training for my last ironman, although at this time I was making up my own thing...swimming, biking and running twice a week with each discipline, doing whatever just to do some base building until the "meat" of the plan started...I am doing base building now, but with purpose and focus instead of just doing stuff just to do it, so it's a good thing. At this time three years ago I was also going to Madison 3 times a week for a class to help me drop the last of my chemo weight...had to love those 25 fabulous steroid induced pounds :-).
One of the really nice things about doing Ironman in 2010 was that Brendon and I didnt know a lot of other people doing the race (we knew some, but it was an "off" year for a lot of peeps), so there wasn't a lot of "comparing" as to who was doing what when, for how long and how hard they were working.
This year, I am excited about the upcoming race looking forward to training with my teammates, friends and hubcap. I am going to do my best to not get sucked into the "comparing of what everyone else is doing vortex". I will trust my coaches knowledge and plan that he is creating for me and won't worry about what my other teammates are doing as their plan is different than mine as well as not worrying about what other friends are doing for their training. Everyone has different strengths or weaknesses that makes all of our plans and training different from one another. I'm looking forward to embracing my own journey and hopefully have some friends to enjoy it with without concerning myself too much about what everyone else is up to...unless, of course, what they are doing happens to fall on a day that I need to do the same-ish thing, then hey, the more the merrier. :-)
It does crack me up when I see things about how bada$$ someone's workout is, and that ALL of their training sessions are bada$$. For me, it isn't always about being bada$$ or have worked the hardest. I like seeing the challenging workouts in my plan, but also LOVE seeing the easier, steady state runs, or the 1-2k choice swims :-). I have learned that there is a time and place for intensity, and that rest days are my friend.
This next week is a "recovery" week for me. It couldn't come at a better time with me being sick. The training sessions won't be as long or as challenging, except for those key workouts...I have gotten subs for all of my classes, so I can focus on my recovery, and just do the workouts that I need to accomplish for my training. I have A LOT of actual work to do too, so time at my desk is necessary and will be important to get all of my SCHTUFF done.
Tonight, kiddos have a play practice and B has to run (first week of his marathon training started), so I will enjoy a quiet hour and half of mellow time.
Enjoy the night everyone and tomorrow is Friday!!!! :-).
I just checked my Training Peaks account and saw my next training block. Let's hope I can keep the sickness at bay and continue to get stronger. It should be interesting, a challenge AND fun all at the same time. Some of the lingo is still a bit of a mystery to me, so there will be a few emails sent out wondering what the heck he is talking about :-).
I do still vividly remember training for my last ironman, although at this time I was making up my own thing...swimming, biking and running twice a week with each discipline, doing whatever just to do some base building until the "meat" of the plan started...I am doing base building now, but with purpose and focus instead of just doing stuff just to do it, so it's a good thing. At this time three years ago I was also going to Madison 3 times a week for a class to help me drop the last of my chemo weight...had to love those 25 fabulous steroid induced pounds :-).
One of the really nice things about doing Ironman in 2010 was that Brendon and I didnt know a lot of other people doing the race (we knew some, but it was an "off" year for a lot of peeps), so there wasn't a lot of "comparing" as to who was doing what when, for how long and how hard they were working.
This year, I am excited about the upcoming race looking forward to training with my teammates, friends and hubcap. I am going to do my best to not get sucked into the "comparing of what everyone else is doing vortex". I will trust my coaches knowledge and plan that he is creating for me and won't worry about what my other teammates are doing as their plan is different than mine as well as not worrying about what other friends are doing for their training. Everyone has different strengths or weaknesses that makes all of our plans and training different from one another. I'm looking forward to embracing my own journey and hopefully have some friends to enjoy it with without concerning myself too much about what everyone else is up to...unless, of course, what they are doing happens to fall on a day that I need to do the same-ish thing, then hey, the more the merrier. :-)
It does crack me up when I see things about how bada$$ someone's workout is, and that ALL of their training sessions are bada$$. For me, it isn't always about being bada$$ or have worked the hardest. I like seeing the challenging workouts in my plan, but also LOVE seeing the easier, steady state runs, or the 1-2k choice swims :-). I have learned that there is a time and place for intensity, and that rest days are my friend.
This next week is a "recovery" week for me. It couldn't come at a better time with me being sick. The training sessions won't be as long or as challenging, except for those key workouts...I have gotten subs for all of my classes, so I can focus on my recovery, and just do the workouts that I need to accomplish for my training. I have A LOT of actual work to do too, so time at my desk is necessary and will be important to get all of my SCHTUFF done.
Tonight, kiddos have a play practice and B has to run (first week of his marathon training started), so I will enjoy a quiet hour and half of mellow time.
Enjoy the night everyone and tomorrow is Friday!!!! :-).
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Doc, Training and Thoughts....
This morning, it was a full house in Power Pump...55 peeps to be exact!!! We got it done and had a little fun while we all worked hard this morning :-). Extra bonus for this instructor, one of my participants brought me 2 dozen farm fresh eggs!!! So excited about that!!! Total sidebar but, they are brown eggs. I have a weird thing in that I only like to eat brown eggs. So, I was extra happy about the eggs :-). After class, I came home to take a quick shower and then I was off to Madison, AGAIN. You would think I have moved back with as much time as I have been spending there. I was headed to see my favorite doc...Not too sure what has been going on with me as I have been sick for about 8 weeks, so I thought, let's finally get it checked out.
Well, guess what...this chica has Bronchitis AND Pneumonia...how awesome is that. No wonder why I have been feeling like cr@p for such a long time. My doc said, "Tell me, how are you doing ANYTHING???" I said, I guess when you are used to feeling like cr@p for that long, the body adjusts and it becomes the new normal. So, with a Z-PAC prescription, a phone call from my Mom to B (she hasn't EVER called him, so, frankly, he thought something happened with my Dad), and orders to take it easy for a few days...hopefully, I will turn a corner in the next few days.
Again, looking forward to the spring weather where we can open windows and get the "sick" air out of the house...and for those of you telling me I need to get a flu shot...I will be, just need to wait until this junk is at bay, but it is a doctor's order...I promise I will listen.
Have to say, again, that I love my coach and that he is genuinely concerned about how I am doing and how he wants me to make sure I listen to what my doc is telling me. So, the plan is adjusted, AGAIN. I do also have to say again, that my team is awesome too. They have been so welcoming and made me feel like a part of the group already...can't wait to race with them this season.
So, training will be low key until I am on a complete upward swing. I have to keep telling myself that I have time, and all will be good come race day. I am just so excited for the upcoming season and I want it to be a great year...another sidebar...my hubcap said that I am really becoming a good runner :-). This Betty has picked up some speed...didn't think I cared anymore about that aspect, but it is fun to see what one's body can accomplish...imagine how speedy I will be when I am healthy!!! I do have to say that dropping those 15 lbs was helpful too...less to carry around. I am still a buck 35, but I will take that. Back on track, I am looking forward to being a triathlete again after a couple of years off.
Onto thoughts...it has been a rough start to the week, partially because lave been sick, partially because, another person with BC has passed away too young. This really affects me...just hard to not be sad and scared at the same time. We never know what is going to happen in our life and what our path is. Regarding cancer, many people have said to me, they took out the cancer, you have had chemotherapy, what are you worried about...it's over. I am only speaking for myself, but it really isn't EVER over. The thoughts that go through my head when I am sick for an extended period of time or if I am having an issue that doesn't seem "normal", Can be scary at times. Fortunately, my Oncologist and Primary Care Doc's haven't EVER made me feel silly or stupid for my worries.
I DO KNOW, that these times always help to light a fire under me and make me want to continue to do what I am doing, stay on a healthy path, not dwell on the "what if" (at times it is a bit of a challenge) and hopefully inspire a few peeps along the way. I'm really not sure what God's plan is for me...frankly, I don't understand what his plan is most of the time, as he has made some choices for friends that I would not have made. One in particular is that I still miss my friend Max terribly. I, selfishly, wish he were still here, to talk to, to just have that time with him. Those days always made the day a good day. I'm sure his wonderful wife and children miss him so much more than I could ever imagine. As I've said in previous posts, I still talk to him all the time, hope he is listening, and truly believe that he gives me signs that he is listening in his own way.
Sorry to end so heavy, but, sometimes, that's just what life throws at you. Enjoy the night! I will, hopefully, be sleeping by 9 pm :-).
Well, guess what...this chica has Bronchitis AND Pneumonia...how awesome is that. No wonder why I have been feeling like cr@p for such a long time. My doc said, "Tell me, how are you doing ANYTHING???" I said, I guess when you are used to feeling like cr@p for that long, the body adjusts and it becomes the new normal. So, with a Z-PAC prescription, a phone call from my Mom to B (she hasn't EVER called him, so, frankly, he thought something happened with my Dad), and orders to take it easy for a few days...hopefully, I will turn a corner in the next few days.
Again, looking forward to the spring weather where we can open windows and get the "sick" air out of the house...and for those of you telling me I need to get a flu shot...I will be, just need to wait until this junk is at bay, but it is a doctor's order...I promise I will listen.
Have to say, again, that I love my coach and that he is genuinely concerned about how I am doing and how he wants me to make sure I listen to what my doc is telling me. So, the plan is adjusted, AGAIN. I do also have to say again, that my team is awesome too. They have been so welcoming and made me feel like a part of the group already...can't wait to race with them this season.
So, training will be low key until I am on a complete upward swing. I have to keep telling myself that I have time, and all will be good come race day. I am just so excited for the upcoming season and I want it to be a great year...another sidebar...my hubcap said that I am really becoming a good runner :-). This Betty has picked up some speed...didn't think I cared anymore about that aspect, but it is fun to see what one's body can accomplish...imagine how speedy I will be when I am healthy!!! I do have to say that dropping those 15 lbs was helpful too...less to carry around. I am still a buck 35, but I will take that. Back on track, I am looking forward to being a triathlete again after a couple of years off.
Onto thoughts...it has been a rough start to the week, partially because lave been sick, partially because, another person with BC has passed away too young. This really affects me...just hard to not be sad and scared at the same time. We never know what is going to happen in our life and what our path is. Regarding cancer, many people have said to me, they took out the cancer, you have had chemotherapy, what are you worried about...it's over. I am only speaking for myself, but it really isn't EVER over. The thoughts that go through my head when I am sick for an extended period of time or if I am having an issue that doesn't seem "normal", Can be scary at times. Fortunately, my Oncologist and Primary Care Doc's haven't EVER made me feel silly or stupid for my worries.
I DO KNOW, that these times always help to light a fire under me and make me want to continue to do what I am doing, stay on a healthy path, not dwell on the "what if" (at times it is a bit of a challenge) and hopefully inspire a few peeps along the way. I'm really not sure what God's plan is for me...frankly, I don't understand what his plan is most of the time, as he has made some choices for friends that I would not have made. One in particular is that I still miss my friend Max terribly. I, selfishly, wish he were still here, to talk to, to just have that time with him. Those days always made the day a good day. I'm sure his wonderful wife and children miss him so much more than I could ever imagine. As I've said in previous posts, I still talk to him all the time, hope he is listening, and truly believe that he gives me signs that he is listening in his own way.
Sorry to end so heavy, but, sometimes, that's just what life throws at you. Enjoy the night! I will, hopefully, be sleeping by 9 pm :-).
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Life is Good...Next Week Will Be Another Good One!
Life is Good...Saturday night, B and I went to Tornado Steakhouse to celebrate my 44 years on earth :-). Dinner was pretty amazing (I had salmon and Brussels sprouts ). Just a quiet dinner out which was nice. Our waiter was really good as well. We did notice that he kept whispering with us, then would go to the table across from ours and be really animated...it was funny. When the table got up to leave, he went around giving everyone hugs and chatted away...when he came back to give us our bill, I asked if that was Tornado's policy to give out but hugs to all of their patrons...he was adorable...Laughed and said, that was my Mom and Dad :-). Sweet young man.
After dinner, we met our good friends, the Colbert's out for a glass of wine/beer at the MASON Lounge. That was a fun and interesting place to go. Had a great time!! We are going to miss them when they move!!!
Came home and fell into bed. Woke up at 8:30 (I guess I needed the rest) and headed to the gym for the 60 minute run. I hadn't really done anything with any intensity all week, so I wasn't sure as to how this was all going to go. Well, it was challenging but we did it!!! Glad to have that done. We had planned on going to the pool to get my swim in but the weather was too nasty...no schwimmy for me today. I did help my friend Lolo get some things cleared out/rearranged to get her house listed...man, am I going to miss her too! All these people moving!!!
This week should be good both training wise and fun wise too! It all starts this morning with a TRX workout with Tre Tre, a run with Scotty B, then an afternoon swim. Tonight, I am Madison bound for the birthday celebration with Brendon's Mom and Sister. A little sushi and shopping, how can you go wrong with that...and it is always a fun night out with them :-).
I'm still not quite 100%, so trying to get as much rest as possible so I Shake this for good. I am making a doc appointment for Tuesday since I have been sick more than not in the past 8 weeks...need to get myself figured out.
Enjoy the day, stay safe out on the roads and love life :-).
After dinner, we met our good friends, the Colbert's out for a glass of wine/beer at the MASON Lounge. That was a fun and interesting place to go. Had a great time!! We are going to miss them when they move!!!
Came home and fell into bed. Woke up at 8:30 (I guess I needed the rest) and headed to the gym for the 60 minute run. I hadn't really done anything with any intensity all week, so I wasn't sure as to how this was all going to go. Well, it was challenging but we did it!!! Glad to have that done. We had planned on going to the pool to get my swim in but the weather was too nasty...no schwimmy for me today. I did help my friend Lolo get some things cleared out/rearranged to get her house listed...man, am I going to miss her too! All these people moving!!!
This week should be good both training wise and fun wise too! It all starts this morning with a TRX workout with Tre Tre, a run with Scotty B, then an afternoon swim. Tonight, I am Madison bound for the birthday celebration with Brendon's Mom and Sister. A little sushi and shopping, how can you go wrong with that...and it is always a fun night out with them :-).
I'm still not quite 100%, so trying to get as much rest as possible so I Shake this for good. I am making a doc appointment for Tuesday since I have been sick more than not in the past 8 weeks...need to get myself figured out.
Enjoy the day, stay safe out on the roads and love life :-).
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
I Am Vertical...And A Celebration!!
Well, holy boats that sucked! Now, I am just speculating here, but, if my Oncologist had ANY idea that I have NOT gotten a flu shot and if he ACTUALLY read this blog or knew it existed and took the time to read it...I am guessing that I would be getting a little love note email by tomorrow afternoon... I am also guessing that it wouldn't be so lovey at all. I should be getting one every year and have done just that since I have gotten the "Big C", but for some reason I thought I would be all good this year and did not think that I would get sick 3 times in the last 8 weeks (yes, this is true). I'm not sure what I exactly had, but I can tell you this, it was not fun. So, as soon as I can breathe through my nose, I will be trotting off to the nearest flu shot joint and get myself hooked up. :-).
As far as training goes, this week will be kind of a wash, but we are still early in the process, so all is good. And there are still over 200 days until race day :-). Plenty of time to be ready to rock n' roll right?
On Wednesday morning, I did an easy 30 minute tester run, coach approved, to see how this 44 year old recovering bod felt. It felt ok, but I was tried for most of the day after that, so not quite ready, but it was nice to have a conversational run with the ladies!! Today, strength, tomorrow ride and swim, again, all coach approved. Hoping to actually do the run that is on my plan this Sunday :-). Fingers crossed that things continue to move in the right direction.
Today was also a day for celebration! One of my dearest friends, Terri, just finished radiation this morning :-)!!! I was so happy for her!!! We met at the Outlet Mall and did some retail therapy, then had a celebratory lunch honoring her big day. Always wonderful to spend time with her. Love her to bits.
Funny part of the lunch...Terri brought a birthday gift for me, while opening it, she said I would be so excited about the first one (if you read my post about the towel incident, this was the perfect gift) ... A Wisconsin Badger towel wrap with straps!! I am attaching a picture :-). It is really cute and now I won't have that issue if my robe is not close by and I have things to get done around the house while I am waiting for my hair to dry a little bit :-).
Looking forward to the rest of the week, continuing to feel better, getting my a$$ back in gear and enjoying spending time with those that I love bunches and bunches.
Laters!!
As far as training goes, this week will be kind of a wash, but we are still early in the process, so all is good. And there are still over 200 days until race day :-). Plenty of time to be ready to rock n' roll right?
On Wednesday morning, I did an easy 30 minute tester run, coach approved, to see how this 44 year old recovering bod felt. It felt ok, but I was tried for most of the day after that, so not quite ready, but it was nice to have a conversational run with the ladies!! Today, strength, tomorrow ride and swim, again, all coach approved. Hoping to actually do the run that is on my plan this Sunday :-). Fingers crossed that things continue to move in the right direction.
Today was also a day for celebration! One of my dearest friends, Terri, just finished radiation this morning :-)!!! I was so happy for her!!! We met at the Outlet Mall and did some retail therapy, then had a celebratory lunch honoring her big day. Always wonderful to spend time with her. Love her to bits.
Funny part of the lunch...Terri brought a birthday gift for me, while opening it, she said I would be so excited about the first one (if you read my post about the towel incident, this was the perfect gift) ... A Wisconsin Badger towel wrap with straps!! I am attaching a picture :-). It is really cute and now I won't have that issue if my robe is not close by and I have things to get done around the house while I am waiting for my hair to dry a little bit :-).
Looking forward to the rest of the week, continuing to feel better, getting my a$$ back in gear and enjoying spending time with those that I love bunches and bunches.
Laters!!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Sick...and Slowing Down...
Yucka...well, I am officially sick. Frankly, I feel like a$$...hoping that some good rest and fluids will bring this mom triathlete back to her feet in the next day or two.
I should have known that when I went to do my run at the Tone Zone yesterday morning that things were taking a turn for the worse. Warmup segment of the run went pretty well, then when the HR cap portion of my run kicked in...the wheels fell off the bus. Had to do A LOT of walking and just started feeling punky.
After lunch, I pretty much separated myself from B and the kids. Not really an ideal way spend the rest of the weekend up at the cabin a/k/a the Stoned Loon Lodge (we have a giant rock in the front yard at the cabin and a lot of loons), but it is what it is and I need to keep everyone else healthy.
Hoping for some good rest on the ride home, tonight and tomorrow. Not really the way I was hoping to spend my birthday. Had a great day/evening planned...going to see how much rest I can get and if some or any of it will happen. I will check in with my coach in the morning and see what he has to say as far as what or if I should be doing anything that he has planned for me tomorrow.
What getting sick does (always try to find the upside in everything - that is the optimist in me) is that it reminds me that I need to SLOW down and take care of myself. For a while, I was so good at saying no and making time for myself to just "BE". I need to find that again. Life doesn't always need to move so fast. As of today, I am making a vow to take a breath, to set the phone down and not always be connected (don't laugh, I am going to make a genuine effort and need to do this). It will be hard to do as I am ALWAYS connected, but I will get used to it as will others. I need to stop being the proverbial hamster on the wheel. More isn't always better...
I can use the next couple of days to get caught up with work emails, and sit back and reevaluate the things I have committed to and make sure they really are good decisions. I have always been a people pleaser by nature (sometimes that is good and sometimes, it is bad). I don't want to ever let anyone down or upset anyone. I need to stop looking at it that way and at times be a little more, for a lack of a better word, selfish. Saying "no" to things that I know will stretch me too far IS ok to do.
I know training for an Ironman and slowing down don't really seem to be possible to put in the same sentence. It CAN be done and there WILL be balance and zen in my life...a work in progress right?? :-).
So....Here is to rest, health, happiness and balance in my 44th year :-). Hope you all have a great day tomorrow!!
I should have known that when I went to do my run at the Tone Zone yesterday morning that things were taking a turn for the worse. Warmup segment of the run went pretty well, then when the HR cap portion of my run kicked in...the wheels fell off the bus. Had to do A LOT of walking and just started feeling punky.
After lunch, I pretty much separated myself from B and the kids. Not really an ideal way spend the rest of the weekend up at the cabin a/k/a the Stoned Loon Lodge (we have a giant rock in the front yard at the cabin and a lot of loons), but it is what it is and I need to keep everyone else healthy.
Hoping for some good rest on the ride home, tonight and tomorrow. Not really the way I was hoping to spend my birthday. Had a great day/evening planned...going to see how much rest I can get and if some or any of it will happen. I will check in with my coach in the morning and see what he has to say as far as what or if I should be doing anything that he has planned for me tomorrow.
What getting sick does (always try to find the upside in everything - that is the optimist in me) is that it reminds me that I need to SLOW down and take care of myself. For a while, I was so good at saying no and making time for myself to just "BE". I need to find that again. Life doesn't always need to move so fast. As of today, I am making a vow to take a breath, to set the phone down and not always be connected (don't laugh, I am going to make a genuine effort and need to do this). It will be hard to do as I am ALWAYS connected, but I will get used to it as will others. I need to stop being the proverbial hamster on the wheel. More isn't always better...
I can use the next couple of days to get caught up with work emails, and sit back and reevaluate the things I have committed to and make sure they really are good decisions. I have always been a people pleaser by nature (sometimes that is good and sometimes, it is bad). I don't want to ever let anyone down or upset anyone. I need to stop looking at it that way and at times be a little more, for a lack of a better word, selfish. Saying "no" to things that I know will stretch me too far IS ok to do.
I know training for an Ironman and slowing down don't really seem to be possible to put in the same sentence. It CAN be done and there WILL be balance and zen in my life...a work in progress right?? :-).
So....Here is to rest, health, happiness and balance in my 44th year :-). Hope you all have a great day tomorrow!!
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Towels, Training, Birthday and Cabin..
I'll start with towels...Now with my rockin' streamlined shape...the only complaint I have with that is that (and the women reading, you know what I am talking about) when you get out of the shower, towel off, and, if you aren't wearing a robe, you wrap the towel around you, above your boobs...The towel actually sits there quite nicely and stays right where it should :-). Well, when you take the boobs out of the equation, the towel doesn't sit so well!!!! I had a little incident when I was getting ready to head to Madison on Monday. I will say this...It doesn't really work to rush around trying to get a few things done when only in a towel and there is nothing to hold that bad boy up...LOL. So glad the neighbors can't see in the house ;-).
Training has been ok this week...a little rearranging going on and a missed bike and swim session...I, again, have a cold...My wish is that if people are ill, please stay home, recoup, recover, do not spread your germs to the rest of us. :-). I don't want to wish the winter away but I AM looking forward to being able to open the windows and get all the gross stagnant air out of the house.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a rest day but switching that to Sunday so I can run at the Tone Zone. Can't get there very early on Sunday, so this will have to do and NO, I will not be running outside. Have I ever mentioned that I am a delicate flower when it comes to running outside in the cold...BRRRRR.
Recovery week is over, just hoping this cold is gone by then. I may have to adjust my rest day again, as on Saturday, the hubcap and I are heading to Madison to celebrate my 44th birthday!!!! Ack! Really...am I going to be 44? I don't feel 44!!! Speaking of advancing in years, the funniest thing about the visit with my Dad the other day was when I told him that he and Mom would be turning 80 this year....his response...NOOOOOOOOO!! Then he threw up his arms and laughed hysterically. I absolutely love that man and it was so good to be able to have a great visit with him. So, my point is, I shouldn't be complaining about 44...It's all good...I am healthy, strong, vibrant and am lovin' life. My actual birthday is on Monday and should be big fun...I will share what is happening on the actual day...I know the suspense will be unbearable ;-)...and it may not be "big fun" to the rest of you, but I am excited about the day from beginning to end :-).
Cabin - We are off to the cabin this weekend...looking forward to another little getaway. No real projects to do, so that is nice. The kids each have brought a friend with them...should be a fun time! The car ride has been interesting with Ted on the floor of the front seat with me (I am attaching a picture). It IS supposed to be WICKED cold up nort' this weekend so there may be some bowling or other indoor activities happening. I DO know, that a fire will be lit within 15 minutes of our arrival. Can't wait to sit back and relax and enjoy the Northwoods.
Enjoy the weekend and stay warm!!!
Training has been ok this week...a little rearranging going on and a missed bike and swim session...I, again, have a cold...My wish is that if people are ill, please stay home, recoup, recover, do not spread your germs to the rest of us. :-). I don't want to wish the winter away but I AM looking forward to being able to open the windows and get all the gross stagnant air out of the house.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a rest day but switching that to Sunday so I can run at the Tone Zone. Can't get there very early on Sunday, so this will have to do and NO, I will not be running outside. Have I ever mentioned that I am a delicate flower when it comes to running outside in the cold...BRRRRR.
Recovery week is over, just hoping this cold is gone by then. I may have to adjust my rest day again, as on Saturday, the hubcap and I are heading to Madison to celebrate my 44th birthday!!!! Ack! Really...am I going to be 44? I don't feel 44!!! Speaking of advancing in years, the funniest thing about the visit with my Dad the other day was when I told him that he and Mom would be turning 80 this year....his response...NOOOOOOOOO!! Then he threw up his arms and laughed hysterically. I absolutely love that man and it was so good to be able to have a great visit with him. So, my point is, I shouldn't be complaining about 44...It's all good...I am healthy, strong, vibrant and am lovin' life. My actual birthday is on Monday and should be big fun...I will share what is happening on the actual day...I know the suspense will be unbearable ;-)...and it may not be "big fun" to the rest of you, but I am excited about the day from beginning to end :-).
Cabin - We are off to the cabin this weekend...looking forward to another little getaway. No real projects to do, so that is nice. The kids each have brought a friend with them...should be a fun time! The car ride has been interesting with Ted on the floor of the front seat with me (I am attaching a picture). It IS supposed to be WICKED cold up nort' this weekend so there may be some bowling or other indoor activities happening. I DO know, that a fire will be lit within 15 minutes of our arrival. Can't wait to sit back and relax and enjoy the Northwoods.
Enjoy the weekend and stay warm!!!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
A Hodge Podge...Training, Incentive, Loss, Dad and Miscellaneous...
I put my original post out there this morning, but pulled it down. For some reason, it just didn't feel right. The day started out well....I had an amazing lunch and conversation with a friend of mine. It was one of those days, that if I didn't have other things planned, I could have stayed and talked all afternoon. After lunch, I headed to see my Dad... I am always a bit apprehensive when I go to see him as I don't ever know what I am going to get. It was day two of seeing him and yesterday was as good as it could ever be with him. Today was more of the same. He laughed, he knew who I was, the family, was tracking pretty well and was animated...I haven't seen that in a long time...I cried right there in his room...we had a great hug and I told him how much I loved him. I know one day this will end, so I am embracing the great days when the come.
When I left my Dad's, I got some really sad news. My childhood friend, high school soccer teammate and breast cancer mentor passed away this afternoon. My heart is broken for her family...none of this makes any sense to me, and I don't think it ever will. We all know our time is limited...it makes me think a lot harder about what I am doing with this life and how I want to live it. I do know that I want to make the most of it.
Here is part of my original post...some of it may seem trivial...but some of it isn't :-).
The past week was good, ending on a high note. My Sunday started with a 60 minute run with some of the running buds. Happy to report that, it went well! You know when you are working and the conversation becomes short fragmented sentences :-). Came home and got the house cleaned!!!! Finally tackled it and am so happy to have this done. I still don't like to do it and I haven't ever claimed to be good at it either. The hubcap and kiddos definitely helped make this happen :-).
That evening, I headed up to Madison to go to the Team BBMC kickoff party. Had a great time and was able to meet some of the group. Such an awesome bunch of people. Looking forward to training and "racing" with them. It's going to be a really fun season!! It definitely helped spark the training fire even further.
This week is a recovery week...recovery weeks are good :-). Yesterday, a 40 minute swim...AND, guess what...I was able to pretty much figure out the flip turn!! (Still have work to do, but hey, i did it!!). Haven't done one of those since I was on the swim team at 10 years old!!!! Can you tell I am excited!! Yes, these are the things that make me happy. A short run after the schwimmy. I forgot my HRM...again, should have had that thing implanted in me ;-).
The day finished off with the Gill's for Gilda swim meeting. I will be swimming across Lake Mendota with 11 other swimmers on June 21st to raise funds for Gilda's Club. It's going to be an amazing day...we will swim from the NauTiGal to the Union...about a 10k swim!!! How is that for a productive Friday?!?! Can you say "tasty beer" when we are all done?!?!
I am just so happy to be able to tackle Ironman again...hiring Blake, meeting new teammates, reconnecting with old friends and training with current friends and the hubcap really is what will make this season SO FUN!!! Also, with round 2 of ironman training, the chemo is completely out of my system (yay for that) and I will be training with only on one cancer fighting drug. I'm looking forward to see what my body can accomplish. It's going to be an interesting nine months, another journey. I have goals for myself, and my incentive to do as well as I can, isn't only for me, but for those that are still in the cancer fight, for those that haven't made it, and for those who have won the battle. I know they will DEFINITELY all help me get through training and for sure on race day. I look back at where I was a little over 4 years ago, and think of where I am now. An incredible time to say the least, both good and bad, but part of what makes me, ME.
A new friend and I were talking a little bit about my cancer journey and I shared a news story that was done about me, my cancer journey and Ironman 2010. I hadn't watched it recently. Again, always brings tears to my eyes, and whenever I see it, it makes me grateful for my life, my health and that I have been able to inspire even just a few of you. If you didn't know my background, or part of the reason why I made the decision to tackle an Ironman in the first place...AND if you have 3ish minutes to spare, take a look...and check out those curls!!!
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Qm86aod7S9Y
Enjoy the night...love life, embrace it and make your dreams come true.
When I left my Dad's, I got some really sad news. My childhood friend, high school soccer teammate and breast cancer mentor passed away this afternoon. My heart is broken for her family...none of this makes any sense to me, and I don't think it ever will. We all know our time is limited...it makes me think a lot harder about what I am doing with this life and how I want to live it. I do know that I want to make the most of it.
Here is part of my original post...some of it may seem trivial...but some of it isn't :-).
The past week was good, ending on a high note. My Sunday started with a 60 minute run with some of the running buds. Happy to report that, it went well! You know when you are working and the conversation becomes short fragmented sentences :-). Came home and got the house cleaned!!!! Finally tackled it and am so happy to have this done. I still don't like to do it and I haven't ever claimed to be good at it either. The hubcap and kiddos definitely helped make this happen :-).
That evening, I headed up to Madison to go to the Team BBMC kickoff party. Had a great time and was able to meet some of the group. Such an awesome bunch of people. Looking forward to training and "racing" with them. It's going to be a really fun season!! It definitely helped spark the training fire even further.
This week is a recovery week...recovery weeks are good :-). Yesterday, a 40 minute swim...AND, guess what...I was able to pretty much figure out the flip turn!! (Still have work to do, but hey, i did it!!). Haven't done one of those since I was on the swim team at 10 years old!!!! Can you tell I am excited!! Yes, these are the things that make me happy. A short run after the schwimmy. I forgot my HRM...again, should have had that thing implanted in me ;-).
The day finished off with the Gill's for Gilda swim meeting. I will be swimming across Lake Mendota with 11 other swimmers on June 21st to raise funds for Gilda's Club. It's going to be an amazing day...we will swim from the NauTiGal to the Union...about a 10k swim!!! How is that for a productive Friday?!?! Can you say "tasty beer" when we are all done?!?!
I am just so happy to be able to tackle Ironman again...hiring Blake, meeting new teammates, reconnecting with old friends and training with current friends and the hubcap really is what will make this season SO FUN!!! Also, with round 2 of ironman training, the chemo is completely out of my system (yay for that) and I will be training with only on one cancer fighting drug. I'm looking forward to see what my body can accomplish. It's going to be an interesting nine months, another journey. I have goals for myself, and my incentive to do as well as I can, isn't only for me, but for those that are still in the cancer fight, for those that haven't made it, and for those who have won the battle. I know they will DEFINITELY all help me get through training and for sure on race day. I look back at where I was a little over 4 years ago, and think of where I am now. An incredible time to say the least, both good and bad, but part of what makes me, ME.
A new friend and I were talking a little bit about my cancer journey and I shared a news story that was done about me, my cancer journey and Ironman 2010. I hadn't watched it recently. Again, always brings tears to my eyes, and whenever I see it, it makes me grateful for my life, my health and that I have been able to inspire even just a few of you. If you didn't know my background, or part of the reason why I made the decision to tackle an Ironman in the first place...AND if you have 3ish minutes to spare, take a look...and check out those curls!!!
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Qm86aod7S9Y
Enjoy the night...love life, embrace it and make your dreams come true.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Training and Life....
Which first, training or life???
I'll go with training since that is why you are reading this in the first place :-). I know I am not quite 2 weeks into the "plan"' but I have to say, I actually have liked being told what do do...please don't share this with Brendon as he doesn't read this :-). He lives it, so why read it :-). It has been nice to look at what I have coming up over the course of the week as far as the swim, bike and run goes and not have to make a plan for myself as to what I need to do with each session.
Is it lame that these are the things that I am excited about? I am excited that I don't have a swim in Friday and that when I swam yesterday, the best part of it was the 2 x 500 pull with paddles and a pull buoy (If I could do that every swim, I would be in heaven). The worst part was the tube swim...but, I am getting the hang of it and will figure it out and do it well one of these days in the near future. It is quite hilarious to see the looks on the life guards faces when the see me trudge along with that thing around my ankles :-).
Tonight, I did my hour ride at Michael's Cycles. It was nice to have that time to just focus on the ride and nothing else. Got my bike heart rate zones from Mike too...Wow, with those new ranges, I need to become more comfortable being uncomfortable. I DID also learn that I have A LOT of work to do on the bike. The isometric leg drills gave me that proof. I was very clunky...a/k/a not a fluid pedal stroke. So, more work on my own bike as opposed to always the spin bike is what I need to be doing. A goal for this year is that "I can't suck on the bike". Again, confirming one of the many, many reasons why I hired a coach.
Onto life...I need to get my happy balance figured out. Some things I can get done or prioritize with no problem...others, not so much. What ends up taking the back seat, is the house...If I could find a cleaning fairy AND a laundry fairy, life would be so much easier. I look at the laundry and go...seriously!!! How can there be so much already? The house...in general, always picked up, except for Sparky's room, of course, but to get to the nitty gritty cleaning that I do not enjoy is hard to prioritize. In my dreams, we would own a house about the size of our cabin - T.I.N.Y. There you go, here is a brilliant idea...We should buy a smaller house...In my dreams...Could you imagine throwing a move into this whole mix of life and training right now...lol, now THAT would be funny!
I am looking forward to a quiet weekend filled with a beverage with a girlfriend, sleeping in on Saturday, then cleaning...unless the cleaning fairy comes before then, and Sunday, a run and the Team BBMC kickoff.
Have a great night and weekend! Monday, I will have info about the upcoming Chasing Chad Spin-A-Thon on April 6th at the Janesville Athletic Club Express. All proceeds will go to brain tumor research...so, put that in your calendars!!!!
I'll go with training since that is why you are reading this in the first place :-). I know I am not quite 2 weeks into the "plan"' but I have to say, I actually have liked being told what do do...please don't share this with Brendon as he doesn't read this :-). He lives it, so why read it :-). It has been nice to look at what I have coming up over the course of the week as far as the swim, bike and run goes and not have to make a plan for myself as to what I need to do with each session.
Is it lame that these are the things that I am excited about? I am excited that I don't have a swim in Friday and that when I swam yesterday, the best part of it was the 2 x 500 pull with paddles and a pull buoy (If I could do that every swim, I would be in heaven). The worst part was the tube swim...but, I am getting the hang of it and will figure it out and do it well one of these days in the near future. It is quite hilarious to see the looks on the life guards faces when the see me trudge along with that thing around my ankles :-).
Tonight, I did my hour ride at Michael's Cycles. It was nice to have that time to just focus on the ride and nothing else. Got my bike heart rate zones from Mike too...Wow, with those new ranges, I need to become more comfortable being uncomfortable. I DID also learn that I have A LOT of work to do on the bike. The isometric leg drills gave me that proof. I was very clunky...a/k/a not a fluid pedal stroke. So, more work on my own bike as opposed to always the spin bike is what I need to be doing. A goal for this year is that "I can't suck on the bike". Again, confirming one of the many, many reasons why I hired a coach.
Onto life...I need to get my happy balance figured out. Some things I can get done or prioritize with no problem...others, not so much. What ends up taking the back seat, is the house...If I could find a cleaning fairy AND a laundry fairy, life would be so much easier. I look at the laundry and go...seriously!!! How can there be so much already? The house...in general, always picked up, except for Sparky's room, of course, but to get to the nitty gritty cleaning that I do not enjoy is hard to prioritize. In my dreams, we would own a house about the size of our cabin - T.I.N.Y. There you go, here is a brilliant idea...We should buy a smaller house...In my dreams...Could you imagine throwing a move into this whole mix of life and training right now...lol, now THAT would be funny!
I am looking forward to a quiet weekend filled with a beverage with a girlfriend, sleeping in on Saturday, then cleaning...unless the cleaning fairy comes before then, and Sunday, a run and the Team BBMC kickoff.
Have a great night and weekend! Monday, I will have info about the upcoming Chasing Chad Spin-A-Thon on April 6th at the Janesville Athletic Club Express. All proceeds will go to brain tumor research...so, put that in your calendars!!!!
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Sleep...I Need More of You...and Comet Too...
Well, week two is going well training wise except for the sleep part. I have needed to get up earlier than normal the past couple of days, AS IN 4:15am-ish. I think that in the back of this melon of mine, I was worried that I wouldn't wake up or my alarm wouldn't go off. Something silly like that. Anyway, I fall asleep right away, but have been waking up at 3:30am and not able to fall back to sleep...huge buzzkill :-(. Tomorrow, no early workout, but a run and a swim later, so hopefully I can catch up a bit tonight.
I also got this cool gadget (this relates to the sleep part of the post too, so don't worry that I got off track) from my two SIL's for my birthday (not for a couple of weeks), but they gave me the Jawbone UP. Pretty amazing little piece of technology. You wear it on your wrist and as it tells you how many steps you take throughout the day. It also buzzes at you if you are inactive for more than 30 minutes. It also tells you what your sleep pattern is. At this point, not sure if I think it's cool or if it is stressing me out. When I got up this morning, I synced it and it told me that I slept for 5 hours and 34 minutes, 3 hours and 22 minutes of that was deep sleep and 2 hours and 12 minutes was light sleep....it actually sounds about right....I would like more sleep tonight...PPLLEEAASSEE.
So, that's my sleep deal.
Onto Comet...it was not a good day yesterday as I had to take him to the vet to put him down :-(. I miss that little guy. He was my snuggle bunny when I go to bed. It's a little different to have a 90 pound golden try to snuggle with you as opposed to a 10 pound shih tzu. Comet did have the last laugh though...when I got home from the vet, I realized that he took a huge dump in the middle of the family room (when I took him to the vet, he ran right to me, so I didn't actually go into the house). I had to laugh, because that is something that he would totally do. He could be a pain in the ass, but he was my little pain in the ass. I don't like that the house has been SO quiet. I'm not used to that. He was definitely the noisy one between the two. Ted isn't too sure as to what is going on. He keeps looking for him both inside and outside the house. Makes me sad for him. I am not ready to get another dog. Maybe in a year or so. We have always had two dogs so this will be a definite adjustment period.
I am attaching one of the few pictures we have of both Ted and Comet close to each other...Comet was NOT a fan of Ted.
Nite all! Sweet dreams and sleep well!!!
I also got this cool gadget (this relates to the sleep part of the post too, so don't worry that I got off track) from my two SIL's for my birthday (not for a couple of weeks), but they gave me the Jawbone UP. Pretty amazing little piece of technology. You wear it on your wrist and as it tells you how many steps you take throughout the day. It also buzzes at you if you are inactive for more than 30 minutes. It also tells you what your sleep pattern is. At this point, not sure if I think it's cool or if it is stressing me out. When I got up this morning, I synced it and it told me that I slept for 5 hours and 34 minutes, 3 hours and 22 minutes of that was deep sleep and 2 hours and 12 minutes was light sleep....it actually sounds about right....I would like more sleep tonight...PPLLEEAASSEE.
So, that's my sleep deal.
Onto Comet...it was not a good day yesterday as I had to take him to the vet to put him down :-(. I miss that little guy. He was my snuggle bunny when I go to bed. It's a little different to have a 90 pound golden try to snuggle with you as opposed to a 10 pound shih tzu. Comet did have the last laugh though...when I got home from the vet, I realized that he took a huge dump in the middle of the family room (when I took him to the vet, he ran right to me, so I didn't actually go into the house). I had to laugh, because that is something that he would totally do. He could be a pain in the ass, but he was my little pain in the ass. I don't like that the house has been SO quiet. I'm not used to that. He was definitely the noisy one between the two. Ted isn't too sure as to what is going on. He keeps looking for him both inside and outside the house. Makes me sad for him. I am not ready to get another dog. Maybe in a year or so. We have always had two dogs so this will be a definite adjustment period.
I am attaching one of the few pictures we have of both Ted and Comet close to each other...Comet was NOT a fan of Ted.
Nite all! Sweet dreams and sleep well!!!
Saturday, January 5, 2013
First Week Complete...and Next Week
A few thoughts and reflections on the first week of training.
1) It was not my brightest move to start with formal training while up north on vacation and while the kiddos were on Christmas break. There was some juggling that needed to take place. I did my best to keep the first week from getting too overwhelming, as I don't do we'll with that. With being gone for the first couple of days this past week and the kids having school for only 3 days and trying to get back into a work groove, it got a little hairy. I didn't want to move any of the workouts around, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. I did get all of the training sessions in that were on the plan so, YAY ME!!!
These are things I have figured out early on:
The swim...well, that is a work in progress...It has been such a long time that I have swam on a consistent basis (that won't be a problem now). But today, I had a swim "lesson" with Blake and it went really well. I learned a lot and definitely have some things to work on, but manageable fixes and I am hoping to see results from the work I will put in over the next month :-).
The bike, I need time in the saddle to suck it up and enjoy it fully again. The rides have been been both challenging and interesting, so I am embracing what is planned for me and how it will make me a lot stronger. I did not get on my bike at all in 2011, and rode about once a week for most of 2012...Here is where I am at now. It feels good to be back on my bike, I am already excited to get outside and ride, and I even incorporated one of my training rides into my spin class...so all good :-).
The run...as of now, the run is my love (I never, ever, thought I would say that, but I really do enjoy it). Some of my running buds were nice enough to join me for the scheduled 60 minute run. Yowza!!! That was definitely challenging, but we did it and all did well!!! These runs are forcing me to push the envelope, which is a good thing. I have been a "runner" for almost 10 years now, and in the last four years, I have always been good with being the turtle; running with friends who like being the turtle with me, facebooking during races (yes I do), stopping for pictures on the course and all that good stuff. The goal has always been to finish and have the most fun possible!! This year, I still want to still do that, just at a quicker pace. That is part of the reason why I hired a coach, right?
2) Coach Blake. I am so happy that I first, decided to get a coach and second, I am extremely happy that I decided to work with him. The swim session today with Blake sealed that deal. I was his priority during the time I had my one on one. With every email I have sent, he has responded to my questions and concerns promptly and has been really encouraging. Some of the workouts, I haven't understood, as some of the lingo with the swim and bike are new to me and he has taken the time to help me understand. A big WIN in my book. AND, I really feel like he wants me to succeed, which is huge for me :-). Another win is the other individuals that Blake coaches. I know a few of them, and got to meet a couple more peeps from Team BBMC today, I am really looking forward to getting to know the group as individuals and as a whole in the months to come!
3) Sleep. I need to be consistent and make getting to bed at a reasonable time and getting adequate rest a priority. I don't typically burn the candle at both ends (some of you may disagree), but at times I know I am not getting enough zzzz's and need to S.L.O.W. D.O.W.N.
4) Weight. I know I have shared this before in a previous post, but being at my optimal weight when more intense training starts will be key. I am heading in the right direction, so that is good and will keep that focus of fueling my body with the right things. The goal is to keep the waist smaller than the chest area...at this point, I am good. :-).
5) I need to add massages into my race budget...simple as that. In oder to keep myself healthy and injury free, I think it will be an important piece. there is a local guy that everyone keeps telling me to go to, so going to check him out in the next couple of weeks.
I do have to say that after my swim session today, I am SO EXCITED for this upcoming race season and can't wait to see what my potential really is :-). Not winning anything, but I definitely am going to do all I can to reach my goals :-). Sidebar, but I am crying again... I am an emotional and passionate person, what can I say...some may find it endearing, others not so much, but hey, that is part of what makes me, me :-).
Now, moving on to next week...I already have my swim and run scheduled for tomorrow. I should be done with both of them by 9:15. That will be a good thing as my day will take a not so fun turn at 9:40am. Our dog Comet will be going to the big dog park in the sky. He is a sick little guy. I had the discussion with the vet, and we both decided that it was the best decision for him. I remember him as a little 1.5 pound peanut. It absolutely breaks my heart, and I know there will be some sad days ahead. I am hoping Ted (our Golden) won't be too lonely. Ted has always liked Comet a lot more than Comet has liked Ted (Comet does not enjoy Ted AT ALL), so we will see.
I have quite a few things to get done at work this week and plenty of training (but not too crazy) so that will be helpful in keeping my mind occupied...and we have another up north weekend coming up...SO WOOT WOOT on that!!
Hope you all had a good weekend...go Pack!! (Do I admit that I really don't watch football??). I am excited to take a hot shower, get into my Jammie's, snuggle up and watch the season premiere of The Biggest Loser...then fall into bed and catch up on some needed rest. Be back in a couple of days :-).
1) It was not my brightest move to start with formal training while up north on vacation and while the kiddos were on Christmas break. There was some juggling that needed to take place. I did my best to keep the first week from getting too overwhelming, as I don't do we'll with that. With being gone for the first couple of days this past week and the kids having school for only 3 days and trying to get back into a work groove, it got a little hairy. I didn't want to move any of the workouts around, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. I did get all of the training sessions in that were on the plan so, YAY ME!!!
These are things I have figured out early on:
The swim...well, that is a work in progress...It has been such a long time that I have swam on a consistent basis (that won't be a problem now). But today, I had a swim "lesson" with Blake and it went really well. I learned a lot and definitely have some things to work on, but manageable fixes and I am hoping to see results from the work I will put in over the next month :-).
The bike, I need time in the saddle to suck it up and enjoy it fully again. The rides have been been both challenging and interesting, so I am embracing what is planned for me and how it will make me a lot stronger. I did not get on my bike at all in 2011, and rode about once a week for most of 2012...Here is where I am at now. It feels good to be back on my bike, I am already excited to get outside and ride, and I even incorporated one of my training rides into my spin class...so all good :-).
The run...as of now, the run is my love (I never, ever, thought I would say that, but I really do enjoy it). Some of my running buds were nice enough to join me for the scheduled 60 minute run. Yowza!!! That was definitely challenging, but we did it and all did well!!! These runs are forcing me to push the envelope, which is a good thing. I have been a "runner" for almost 10 years now, and in the last four years, I have always been good with being the turtle; running with friends who like being the turtle with me, facebooking during races (yes I do), stopping for pictures on the course and all that good stuff. The goal has always been to finish and have the most fun possible!! This year, I still want to still do that, just at a quicker pace. That is part of the reason why I hired a coach, right?
2) Coach Blake. I am so happy that I first, decided to get a coach and second, I am extremely happy that I decided to work with him. The swim session today with Blake sealed that deal. I was his priority during the time I had my one on one. With every email I have sent, he has responded to my questions and concerns promptly and has been really encouraging. Some of the workouts, I haven't understood, as some of the lingo with the swim and bike are new to me and he has taken the time to help me understand. A big WIN in my book. AND, I really feel like he wants me to succeed, which is huge for me :-). Another win is the other individuals that Blake coaches. I know a few of them, and got to meet a couple more peeps from Team BBMC today, I am really looking forward to getting to know the group as individuals and as a whole in the months to come!
3) Sleep. I need to be consistent and make getting to bed at a reasonable time and getting adequate rest a priority. I don't typically burn the candle at both ends (some of you may disagree), but at times I know I am not getting enough zzzz's and need to S.L.O.W. D.O.W.N.
4) Weight. I know I have shared this before in a previous post, but being at my optimal weight when more intense training starts will be key. I am heading in the right direction, so that is good and will keep that focus of fueling my body with the right things. The goal is to keep the waist smaller than the chest area...at this point, I am good. :-).
5) I need to add massages into my race budget...simple as that. In oder to keep myself healthy and injury free, I think it will be an important piece. there is a local guy that everyone keeps telling me to go to, so going to check him out in the next couple of weeks.
I do have to say that after my swim session today, I am SO EXCITED for this upcoming race season and can't wait to see what my potential really is :-). Not winning anything, but I definitely am going to do all I can to reach my goals :-). Sidebar, but I am crying again... I am an emotional and passionate person, what can I say...some may find it endearing, others not so much, but hey, that is part of what makes me, me :-).
Now, moving on to next week...I already have my swim and run scheduled for tomorrow. I should be done with both of them by 9:15. That will be a good thing as my day will take a not so fun turn at 9:40am. Our dog Comet will be going to the big dog park in the sky. He is a sick little guy. I had the discussion with the vet, and we both decided that it was the best decision for him. I remember him as a little 1.5 pound peanut. It absolutely breaks my heart, and I know there will be some sad days ahead. I am hoping Ted (our Golden) won't be too lonely. Ted has always liked Comet a lot more than Comet has liked Ted (Comet does not enjoy Ted AT ALL), so we will see.
I have quite a few things to get done at work this week and plenty of training (but not too crazy) so that will be helpful in keeping my mind occupied...and we have another up north weekend coming up...SO WOOT WOOT on that!!
Hope you all had a good weekend...go Pack!! (Do I admit that I really don't watch football??). I am excited to take a hot shower, get into my Jammie's, snuggle up and watch the season premiere of The Biggest Loser...then fall into bed and catch up on some needed rest. Be back in a couple of days :-).
Friday, January 4, 2013
Swimsuit....LAST time, I promise!! :-)
Short but sweet. I got the swimsuit I ordered from Title Nine today. It is awesome and fits perfectly! It may sound lame but I can't stop crying tears of joy that I found a suit that fits this boobless wonder!!! And I think it looks really cute too! It is little things like that, that make what some people may think was a crazy decision on my part, SO worth it!!
(Self talk moment here) ... I am beautiful without breasts...frankly, I feel so much better about myself now that they are gone. I am not "faking" anything for a lack of a better term and this is who I am. Cancer has taken my breasts but not who I am at the core of my being.
After I confirmed the perfect fit, I called Title Nine immediately to give them kudos for all of their help and kindness with my swimsuit order. And now I know what to get when the new spring catalog comes out!!!
I am still crying ... I am so happy :-).
Enjoy your weekend! I'm sure I will have a post after my hour run and swim session with Blake over the weekend. These training sessions are kicking my ass but in the best possible way!!!
(Self talk moment here) ... I am beautiful without breasts...frankly, I feel so much better about myself now that they are gone. I am not "faking" anything for a lack of a better term and this is who I am. Cancer has taken my breasts but not who I am at the core of my being.
After I confirmed the perfect fit, I called Title Nine immediately to give them kudos for all of their help and kindness with my swimsuit order. And now I know what to get when the new spring catalog comes out!!!
I am still crying ... I am so happy :-).
Enjoy your weekend! I'm sure I will have a post after my hour run and swim session with Blake over the weekend. These training sessions are kicking my ass but in the best possible way!!!
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Training Has Officially Started!!! And Swimsuits...AGAIN!!!
SOOOO, Training officially started this week. First day, Monday, December 31st...packed up the car and headed to the Eagle River YMCA .... No dice, they were closed... Fortunately for me, I was resourceful enough before we headed up north and found a gym that was in Eagle River. No pool, but I would take what I could get. The Tone Zone here we come! Got all checked in and found my treadmill...they even had a group fitness room for me to do my drills that were in the plan :-). It was a nice place and they have sweet Keiser spin bikes for those days I need to ride while we are in the north woods while it is still wintery out!!
Our New Years Eve evening was really nice...relatively quiet...I, of course did NOT make it to midnight. We went out in the lake with the neighbors for a crazy huge bonfire. Big fun, but a little scary. As soon as the flames went down, it got cold, so we went home and watched CNN's New Years Eve with Kathy Griffin and Anderson Cooper. Poor guy doesn't get a word in edgewise :-). I absolutely love that he laughs like a school girl at her jokes. Makes me smile. When that ended, this Chica was done...off to bed for me. Jack (my oldest) made it up later than I did, talking, yes actually talking on the phone, to his girlfriend until who knows what time.
Back to training...New Years Day. Took care of all of my strength work before most everyone got up. Sparky (my youngest and actually named Parker) was my timer for everything that I needed to do. Gotta love that girl! Got home later than we wanted to, but there was still time to watch part of the BIG GAME (bummer that it didn't go so well for them), or watch a little bit of the game if you were me. Got down to the lower level to get started on the bike ride, and what do I forget...heart rate monitor (I now need it for all of my bike and run schtuff). I should just wear that thing all the time...I keep forgetting about it. I have a bunch of them, so am going to start leaving one by my bike, by the treadmill, keep one in my gym bag and keep one in the bathroom so it is just there. Here is an idea...I should have had my surgeon implant a monitor in my body...that would have been perfect!! So, I toddled upstairs, came back down and off to riding I went. It was a challenging ride that's for sure (I love my bike, I love my bike, I love my bike). First trainer ride...EVER. I know, lame, but I have always either ridden outside or on a spin bike in past years...another new challenge for this chica!
Today, run and a swim...my friend Deb was nice enough to agree to do the run too. Great to have the company and fun to show her what I am doing. We got a few interesting looks while on the track with a couple of people asking WHAT EXACTLY we were doing. I said, I am doing as I am told. Can't believe that actually came out of my mouth ;-). I did find out that I am faster than I thought I was...the heart rate monitor doesn't lie and tells me when I can push harder than I think I can...damn technology ;-).
This afternoon, a swimmy was on deck. I was hoping to get to the pool by 1:00pm...um nope, didn't leave work until 1:30...then I had the discussion with myself. Do I go tonight while Sparky is at swim team or go early tomorrow...I convinced myself that I should JUST DO IT (nice Nike slogan huh) and I will be done for the day. There are several times I wanted to turn around on the way to the pool...I will explain this...in Milton/Janesville we do not have access to pools at anytime of the day that are 25 yarders. the pool at the club where I work is 18 yards and the one at the Y is 20 yards, so I go to Whitewater. Not a terrible trip by any means, but not really convenient either.
I get there, get into the pool area and finally get in the water...all was going well until I got to the 4
50 yard swims where you tie a bike tire tube around your ankles so you are unable to kick while swimming...I need to get a picture of it and post it as it is pretty interesting to see and funnier (at this point in training) to watch. Off I go with the first 50 of the set thinking, this cant be too bad can it??? First 25 went pretty well, second 25, um not so good...I kept feeling like my lower body was sinking and I'm sure I looked like I was flailing/struggling in the water. The lifeguard stuck close to me during those 4 sets :-). I did make all 4 sets of 50 yards and finish out the rest of my planned swim, but man, I need to work on that part!!!
And here is my random swimsuit sidebar...the suit that I wore last year with "foobs" still fits the same without them...mmmm...Frankly, I thought it would fit better, but no dice, just as tight as it was before...luckily it still fits, or there would be other things to discuss.
When I finished the swim, I was so happy to be done and gave myself a little pat on the back for making the trip :-). As training continues, the drive won't matter and I will be so used to being back at the pool that it'll be fun to go. Once I do get in the water, I always say to myself, why don't I swim more often? I won't have that problem now and will embrace the pool :-).
Looking forward to the remainder of the week and a fairly mellow weekend with a rest day thrown in :-). Sunday, swim analysis with coach Blake...we will see what I all need to work on. Should be fun!
Oh, and this has nothing to do with the sport of triathlon, but I have to share...I am a sharer If you all haven't figured that out yet. My son's girlfriend got him the cutest Christmas gift. A t-shirt that says Thing 1 on it...she got the other one that says Thing 2. Adorable if you ask me :-).
I cannot wait to get into my Jammie's tonight and SLEEP! Nite!!
Our New Years Eve evening was really nice...relatively quiet...I, of course did NOT make it to midnight. We went out in the lake with the neighbors for a crazy huge bonfire. Big fun, but a little scary. As soon as the flames went down, it got cold, so we went home and watched CNN's New Years Eve with Kathy Griffin and Anderson Cooper. Poor guy doesn't get a word in edgewise :-). I absolutely love that he laughs like a school girl at her jokes. Makes me smile. When that ended, this Chica was done...off to bed for me. Jack (my oldest) made it up later than I did, talking, yes actually talking on the phone, to his girlfriend until who knows what time.
Back to training...New Years Day. Took care of all of my strength work before most everyone got up. Sparky (my youngest and actually named Parker) was my timer for everything that I needed to do. Gotta love that girl! Got home later than we wanted to, but there was still time to watch part of the BIG GAME (bummer that it didn't go so well for them), or watch a little bit of the game if you were me. Got down to the lower level to get started on the bike ride, and what do I forget...heart rate monitor (I now need it for all of my bike and run schtuff). I should just wear that thing all the time...I keep forgetting about it. I have a bunch of them, so am going to start leaving one by my bike, by the treadmill, keep one in my gym bag and keep one in the bathroom so it is just there. Here is an idea...I should have had my surgeon implant a monitor in my body...that would have been perfect!! So, I toddled upstairs, came back down and off to riding I went. It was a challenging ride that's for sure (I love my bike, I love my bike, I love my bike). First trainer ride...EVER. I know, lame, but I have always either ridden outside or on a spin bike in past years...another new challenge for this chica!
Today, run and a swim...my friend Deb was nice enough to agree to do the run too. Great to have the company and fun to show her what I am doing. We got a few interesting looks while on the track with a couple of people asking WHAT EXACTLY we were doing. I said, I am doing as I am told. Can't believe that actually came out of my mouth ;-). I did find out that I am faster than I thought I was...the heart rate monitor doesn't lie and tells me when I can push harder than I think I can...damn technology ;-).
This afternoon, a swimmy was on deck. I was hoping to get to the pool by 1:00pm...um nope, didn't leave work until 1:30...then I had the discussion with myself. Do I go tonight while Sparky is at swim team or go early tomorrow...I convinced myself that I should JUST DO IT (nice Nike slogan huh) and I will be done for the day. There are several times I wanted to turn around on the way to the pool...I will explain this...in Milton/Janesville we do not have access to pools at anytime of the day that are 25 yarders. the pool at the club where I work is 18 yards and the one at the Y is 20 yards, so I go to Whitewater. Not a terrible trip by any means, but not really convenient either.
I get there, get into the pool area and finally get in the water...all was going well until I got to the 4
50 yard swims where you tie a bike tire tube around your ankles so you are unable to kick while swimming...I need to get a picture of it and post it as it is pretty interesting to see and funnier (at this point in training) to watch. Off I go with the first 50 of the set thinking, this cant be too bad can it??? First 25 went pretty well, second 25, um not so good...I kept feeling like my lower body was sinking and I'm sure I looked like I was flailing/struggling in the water. The lifeguard stuck close to me during those 4 sets :-). I did make all 4 sets of 50 yards and finish out the rest of my planned swim, but man, I need to work on that part!!!
And here is my random swimsuit sidebar...the suit that I wore last year with "foobs" still fits the same without them...mmmm...Frankly, I thought it would fit better, but no dice, just as tight as it was before...luckily it still fits, or there would be other things to discuss.
When I finished the swim, I was so happy to be done and gave myself a little pat on the back for making the trip :-). As training continues, the drive won't matter and I will be so used to being back at the pool that it'll be fun to go. Once I do get in the water, I always say to myself, why don't I swim more often? I won't have that problem now and will embrace the pool :-).
Looking forward to the remainder of the week and a fairly mellow weekend with a rest day thrown in :-). Sunday, swim analysis with coach Blake...we will see what I all need to work on. Should be fun!
Oh, and this has nothing to do with the sport of triathlon, but I have to share...I am a sharer If you all haven't figured that out yet. My son's girlfriend got him the cutest Christmas gift. A t-shirt that says Thing 1 on it...she got the other one that says Thing 2. Adorable if you ask me :-).
I cannot wait to get into my Jammie's tonight and SLEEP! Nite!!
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