Busy ... And the Anniversary

It's been a busy few weeks finishing up my oldest, Jack's Show Choir Season. Love watching him and all of the kids perform but it is definitely a busy time of full show choir weekends and not having time to get a lot of other stuff done. Musical practice is in full swing for him (happy he drives). Sparky's musical practices have amped up as well. She decided this year to be the stage manager. Wanted to try something different and still be a part of the production. Track will start for her in a couple of weeks as well. 

Training is holding steady and hasn't  gotten too out of control yet, but the build phase starts this week, so look out, the fatigue will be setting in!  I take everything week by week and deal with the training plan the Sunday before to make sure everything can be fit in. Still working on losing those hysterectomy LB's that came on with a vengeance and the no estrogen makes the weight loss even harder  The medically induced menopause isn't my favorite but, hey, I am alive, so that is most important and the weight will come off. 

This week is spring break for the kiddos. Nothing tropical for us but fun will be had.  A little work, some college visits for Jack, Sparky is going to the Dells with a friend, training AND the cabin with the family to round it all out!  Most of my training buddies will be out of town, but all will be good, some are sticking around :). Need to stay on task with the 3 half irons planned and paid for this season. I am excited for all of them in many ways. I haven't done any of these races before, so that will be the most fun!  The first, Milkman, in June, will be the inaugural race in Madison. Always fun to race close to home and friends will be racing too. The second, Door County, in July, will be a wonderful family weekend, will be a race with friends and we love Door County. The Third, Michigan Titanium with be fun as B and I will have a little overnight getaway, which will be a great way to round out the summer. 

Im and SO ready for warmer weather, having the windows open, taking the dogs for walks, training outside and family time up north. It's going to be another good year at the Stoned Loon Lodge ... Time is ALWAYS good there. 

The Anniversary ... Yesterday was the 2nd anniversary of my father's death. I still can't believe it has been 2 years already. Just miss him terribly but always find great memories to make me smile. I miss being able to visit him and tell him what was all going on the most. Even towards the end when I know he didn't always understand, I loved to be able to chat with him about what was happening with everyone. Always wish for one more day, but know that he is there with me. Love that man to pieces. I am grateful that my mom is still here and have truly enjoyed the time we have together. 

Well, off to eat and enjoy the extra sunlight. Happy first day of spring and I'll be back next week!  Thanks for sticking around. :)

Year of the Triple 70.3

The triple 70.3 training season "officially" begins this week!  Looking forward to the challenge of the season and accomplishing the goals I have set out for myself!  First 8 weeks are planned and set and "day one" is in the books! First 70.3 is 17 weeks away!  It'll be interesting to see how the recovery/peak/taper goes in between each of these races as they are almost exactly one month apart. Really looking forward to the time with family and racing with different sets of friends this summer!  

These past couple of weeks I have been sick ... In almost like clockwork fashion, I get bronchitis and pneumonia. It has been just about an every year event since 2009. Not super fun but it is what it is. As soon as I felt the cold coming on, I went into rest mode to see if I could keep it all at bay ... No such luck. Just need to be sure I am diligent about making sure I am properly hydrated, nourished and am getting the rest that is needed and hopefully this will knock it out of the park for good.  No working out for me these past two weeks just made me cranky. Glad I have the ability to get back to it and the crankiness will subside! 

I've added a new strength program to my training which I am really excited about!  This will definitely aide in my base and build training before I need to reduce the amount of strength training I am doing once the tri season gets into full swing. 

Besides working on staying healthy, spending time with my family and getting training in, I have really been making an effort to carve out time for those that I have a positive life connection with. Love spending time with friends that I can support, cheer on and watch them succeed have them do the same for me. It can get too easy to get sucked into the negative. We all wish we could make changes and dream of things we would like to accomplish. Let's help each other get there!  This focus has been a definite gift and makes me smile everyday. 

I am off to foam roll. Enjoy the week, live life, love it enjoy it and be kind to one another!  I'll be back next week with some fun training and show choir adventures to share! 

Fitting It All In ...

It's been about 2 years since I have done any significant training for a triathlon.  I have forgotten the juggling act that needs to take place in order to make these things happen. ;). 

When can I swim, bike, run, get strength training in, go to yoga, have quality time with family and friends and find down time. 

It's all quite the interesting juggling act and trying to figure out the training plan can be a little daunting if one looks at the next 8 months as a whole to get ready for 3 half ironmans (70.3 mile races), a 20k, an OWS (open water swim) and the MS150 as well. The events themselves will be fun, the getting there can be the challenging part if I let it overwhelm me.  

How can this be done?  Well, training "officially" starts in February so I am just working on building that base for the work ahead. Everything really gets broken down into priorities. 

1) Family - they are always number ONE for me. What I do and how I get it done revolves around what works best for the family as a whole. Typically, you will see me out at the pre-butt crack of dawn as everyone is still in bed. Cabin and family time takes priority over anything. When we are up north, I may get an early morning long swim in (before the kids are up and before the lake neighbors are ready to start the day) or we may do a family bike ride, but there aren't any long rides or runs that will happen up there.  Let's face it, I am never going to "win" a race, nor am I going to qualify for anything, so if I miss along run or bike one weekend, life will not be over it just keeps moving forward. 

2) Friends - I love spending time with my friends but it gets challenging to manage two kiddos who are involved in a lot of activities (not as many as some, but enough) and a hubcap that has a schedule that I try to keep track of so we can work together to keep Team Wilkinson in a good place. 

I am fortunate to have different groups of friends that our "getting together" is to go for a run, go for a ride, catch s swim or meet after a yoga class, so we have time to connect and solve all the problems of the world ;). There are no sound barriers being broken with speed but we put the miles in while having a great time catching up. A definite training bonus and just makes it a fun way to get the work in. There are friends that I don't get to see as often but we know that when we can see each other it is always fun and a gift to share that time together. 

3) Work - that is a constant. I am fortunate to be able to work part time from home (20-25 hours a week) for a wonderful company. My schedule varies slightly from week to week but I always have a general idea as to what it's going to be which is helpful to get the training in when needed.

4) Training - it gets done, or as one of my first coaches said to me who gave a general idea as to how it needs to get done. If one does 85-90% of the training, all will be good. Rest when needed and if a workout gets missed, let it go. If too many are missed then reevaluating of how I am going about things will be needed, but I tend to be consistant. That training thought has seemed to work for me over the last 12 years since I started running and in the last 9 years since I have participated in my first triathlon. As I wrote earlier, I am never going to "win", so trying to be the fastest out there isn't a goal for me. The goal is to finish while having the best time while participating in the event and enjoying the journey in getting there. 

The goal for this season is to break down the training by month so I can see what needs to be done for that month and then figure it out from there. If I have to move something to another day, then I do that. If something comes up where I need to miss something because of family, work or just plain fatigue, then I typically let it go. If I look at the entire plan in front of me at one time, it gets to be just too overwhelming. I do have the whole plan figured out, but put the things in the calendar for one month at a time as that makes life and training much more manageable. 

2016 is going to be a fun year with life, family, friends, fun and racing. 

Hope you all are staying warm if you are in the Midwest. Screenshot of the temps this morning when we left Eagle River. There is no outdoor training when temps are like this. Brrrrr. At least it's sunny right! 

May you all have a wonderful week ahead. I am looking forward to turning the big 4-7 on Thursday. Let's all get out there and live life, love it, appreciate it and be kind to one another. Until next weekend!  Peace out!  

Giddy Up!!

Short but sweet ...

It's official! Registration fees have been paid for the 2016 triathlon season!  Milkman 70.3 (Madison, WI), Door County 70.3 (Door County, WI) and MI Titanium 70.3 (Grand Rapids, MI)!!! One race in each of the summer months!  

Race plan is in place and excited for the year to come. Finalizing the training plan and moving forward and leaving 2015 behind with the passion to conquer the challenges ahead!  

The focus will be the Swim, Bike, Run, Strength, Intervals AND NUMERO UNO will be keeping the diet dialed in. Had my last hoorah over the weekend with good friends having a delicious Bloody Mary that was absolutely ridiculous.  I am not a big fried food eater and the bloody was full of it. I made the choice to tackle it. I'm am still not feeling well tonight ... Hoping tomorrow, I will turn a corner (it was a blast tho) and the tummy will not be such a mess. Photo of the bloody is below. 

Looking forward to all of the adventures that 2016 brings!  

I'll be back next weekend. In the mean time, remember that life is short. Live it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Who Is Ready To Tackle 2016???

It's been a LLOONNGG time!  

I am back and ready to go!  Looking forward to 2016 and all it has to offer. The year will be filled spending time with those that are important to me, doing things I love and am passionate about personally and professionally.  Declaring 2016 the year of EPIC ADVENTURES.  

I am stoked to say that I am doing THREE 70.3 distance triathlons this coming season ... Haven't been this excited about fitness and racing in over a year (using my dad and a dear friend as my inspiration), so am definitely ready to tackle life, the season, my fitness and have an absolute blast!!!  The season will be filled with fun and friends, which is awesome. I'll be racing for Effcansah again which really is incredible and I love the founder so that makes it that more meaningful. If you don't know what they are about, below is a link to their website. 

www.effcansah.com 

Professionally, I am enjoying my job at Sub-Zero. Low stress, fun talking and working with all of the customers  and it's about 100 steps from my kitchen. Three wins in my book. 

I am still researching health coaching and triathlon coaching certifications. The goal is to tackle both by the end of 2016 so that in 2017, I can officially share that knowledge and help others achieve their goals and make their dreams a reality.  

Last thing to tackle is my weight. I am thicker than I want to be and the pants aren't fitting well. Time to take the bull by the horns and get it done. B is on board so it's awesome to have the support. One can only blame the hysterectomy for so long, but my body still isn't finished with menopause and the lack of any kind of estrogen makes the weight loss more challenging. Doing my best to work thru that and persevere.  Logging my food, whole foods and the right mix of strength, interval work, and steady cardio will get me there. The contract that I have signed is below. 

So, CHEERS to an amazing 2016! Looking forward to fun and quality time with my family and with friends, time at the cabin and living life to the fullest. 

May 2016 be a year of good health, happiness, fitness, fulfilling dreams, reaching your goals and having EPIC adventures of your own!!  Hope you will join me for the ride. 

Enjoy your night and I'll be back next week. Until then, remember that life is short. Live it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Lost ....

 I have come to this conclusion ...

To put it simply, I am lost. Not sure where to find "me" again. I am not the same since my hysterectomy 18 months ago and I am definitely not the same since my daddy passed 15 months ago. 

I'd love to feel "lighter" both mentally and physically. These will all take time. How much time, I have no idea. I will never "get over" the death of my father, but am looking forward to the day when it doesn't hurt so much. Not rushing time as it will happen when the time is right. 

The total hysterectomy has changed me in so many ways. There isn't a "formula" that one can use as to what happens to a woman after and how it affects people is completely different for everyone. I will say, I am over the hot flashes. Looking forward to those being done. The extra "love" I have in my frame will change. I have finally realized that it will take longer to do so. And that is OK. 

The focus right now is to have fun, not put so much pressure on myself, but keep moving, find me again, live in the moment and to continue spending time with those that I love and make life better.  I am also enjoying not being so "busy" anymore. Not sure why we all glorify the busy, but cramming 25 hours into a 24 hour day has lost its appeal. Enjoying my slower pace. 

I have pulled out of my half ironman this year. I have a feeling that 2016 will be the year for triathlon.  Just not feeling it in 2015, but loving exercising for fun with friends. 

Looking forward to making memories at the Stoned Loon Lodge with the family. I know it's been a while since I have been around the blog, and after today, it may be a while again. Thanks for checking in. I'll be back ... 

Until I return remember, life is short, live it, love it and be kind to one another. 

No News Is Good News ...

Life has been pretty status quo lately, which I always enjoy, so haven't written much ... 

Training has been going pretty well besides the lack of biking. Running 3-4 times a week, swimming twice a week and getting 2-3 strength sessions in each week as well. Need to get 3 in for sure to see the changes I am looking for. The bike will happen ... The trainer tire is off, so that's a step in the right direction. :-)

The big events for the upcoming week are first, my baby, turns 13 on Tuesday!!! Can't believe I will have a second teenager in the house!!!  Second, Jack has his first official job training meeting!  He is really is excited to be a part of the Kona Ice Krew and can't wait for summer!  Third, Sparky has her conference track meet.  Love to watch her run and enjoy watching her with the serious "in the zone" face while she is competing. Fourth, we hit the cabin!!!!  Looking forward to a long weekend at the Stoned Loon Lodge with boating, bonfires, good food and time with our lake friends. 

In he past few weeks, I have had a bit of a breakthrough, making time to meditate each day and seeing the results with better sleep, a more positive attitude and just feeling happier in general. I've been making sure to take care of me and writing what I am grateful for at the end of each day, so that is a plus. Just need to tweak the diet a bit more ... Have to continually make the effort to prep for the week ahead and not wing it. 

Today was a success on the Food planning front with grocery shopping done (date with the hubcap at Woody's), meals planned, my favorite Vega One shakes on deck and workouts scheduled and planned in the calendar ... I am ready!!!  

Hope you all had a fantastic week and enjoy your week ahead. May you be grateful for something everyday and take time to smile. Always remember, life is short, love it, live it and be kind to one another. Be back next week! 

Mistake ...

So here is a funny ... I apparently am not prediabetic. Did a blood test that checked my glucose levels for the last 10 weeks ... Not prediabetic ... WHOO HOO me!  Couldn't really explain that except maybe the first wasn't truly a fasting glucose test. I was so excited to get that news!!!  I am still on a great path and am really happy with the direction my fitness is going. 

Overall, these past two weeks have been  good. I am really enjoying my job as a whole and the extra bonus of having the time to get my workouts in, get things taken care of around the house, spend time with friends and to be able to be a hands-on parent makes me smile, plus I am able to talk with interesting people all day. 

In the past couple of weeks, I have been able to attend two INCREDIBLE events. I went with a friend to a THRIVE Connections luncheon where a friend of mine, Christi was the keynote speaker. First, I have to say that she did an incredible job and can tell that she LOVES what she does. She was authentic, funny, honest and very inspiring. There were so many things she said that resonated with me that it would take too long to write them all out. Brilliant and I am so happy that I attended. 

The second was a Mastering Meditation workshop at a friends yoga studio in town. I have been talking about and wanting to get into meditation more and more (right now it is a simple bedtime routine that I do, but would like to continue to learn about it and implement it into my life on a daily basis).  The workshop was incredible and gave some wonderful guidance. Have been meditating daily since then and it has done wonders. Continuing on that path as well. 

Hope the week has been a good one for all of you. If not, remember Monday is just around the corner for a fresh start!  I am ready to go with my food prepped for the week, my new fave, Vega One protein shakes all set and dinners planned. Looking forward to some family time this evening ...  Hope you all have a fantastic week and remember, live life, love it, enjoy it and always be kind to one another.  Be back next week :)

 

Progress ...

Well, this has been a great week both food and workout-wise ... The pre-planning and prepping of meals and general food on Sunday's is so beneficial for me. Makes the choices and the balance of nutrition so much easier.  The L-B's are coming off I am already feeling better and stronger. We will see what the doc and test results say in 6 weeks!!!!  

I am still working on carving out time for regular yoga and daily meditation. Fortunately Sparky wants to start practicing yoga so we are going to start going together in the next few weeks and am also attending to a meditation workshop next weekend.  All is a process but am looking forward to both as well as dedicating the time to reap the benefits that both offer. 

Half ironman training officially starts tomorrow ... Ack!  We will see if the mojo and urge to do a full ironman happens in the process.  As of now I am excited for the training and for the event, so that is a good thing.  If so, great ... If not all good and shorter distances it will be.  Decision will be made on August 23rd, just after the race is over.  

Looking forward to next week week and all that is coming. I have Thursday off so I'm able to attend a luncheon with a friend to see professional motivational speaker and one of my friends from HS, Christi Andringa. So looking

 forward to seeing her in her element as well soaking up some of the energy that she will give to the room!!!  

Well, Off to eat dinner, then get this little missy to bed. I am beat. I hope you have all had a wonderful weekend and make the most of the week ahead and as always remember, life is short, live it, love it and be kind to one another. I'll be back next week!  

I do have to give a special shout out to two people ... One of my dearest friends in the whole world, Terri,  had a birthday yesterday! She is a remarkable, giving and beautiful person both inside and out and I am lucky to have her in my life!  Here is a photo from our first half ironman that we participated in together. Love this photo ...

Another shout out to my friend Molly that celebrated her birthday yesterday as well!  She has been my inspiration and has been close to my heart since we have met ... Love this photo too. 

Nite all and I'll be back next week!! 

Harsh Reality ...

So, here is the scoop.  I am pre-diabetic.  I have work to do and I am up for the challenge and am hoping in 8-12 weeks, I can reverse this.  With the aftermath of the hysterectomy, my body has been retaliating and my "loose" training schedule hasn't been working with my now non-existent metabolism. On the bright side, my life stressors have decreased dramatically and am happier in many ways than I ever have been (still need more yoga and meditation, but am working on making both of them a priority).  

The funniest thing was the note I got from my doctor after all of the tests came back  ... "This is definitely reverseable if you lose a little weight" ... Ummm, yes, I am aware of that as that was one of the reasons why I scheduled the appointment in the first place. ;-) 

I need to do the work, I need to make sure I am getting my training in (I am excited about doing that again ... The passion is finally back). I am fueling my body in the best way possible and am truly finding enjoyment in all of those things that were lost for a little while. 

Now that the weather that is getting nicer, I have been able to reconnect with my running buds, gotten my booty back in the pool, am back at traditional strength training (I have forgotten HOW much I have missed it - more on that component next week, but I am SUPER excited!!). The last piece of the puzzle is to add cycling back in too (if anyone can find my mojo for that, please let me know). 

Sorry I have been MIA for a bit. Was just in a funky place ... We are all there at times and again, thanks for staying with me for the ride. 

I hope you have all had a wonderful weekend! We were able to take advantage of the nice weather and spend some time outside. Enjoy the week ahead and remember: Life is short, live it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Learning ... AND possibly getting wiser??

This is what I have learned from working at home in these last few weeks:

1) I love being home and being close to my family.

2) My "commute" is wonderful.

3) I love my job and am looking forward to expanding my knowledge base to be able to assist customers further.

4) It is imperative that get out and do some form of training/exercise every morning, whether it be at a fitness facility or outdoors.  I love seeing friends, trainers and workout buddies as they help make the start to the day that much better and definitely makes my heart happy.  I am lucky enough that my work schedule allows me to accomplish this so there isn't ANY reason why this can't happen. 

I began working on my half ironman training plan that will officially begin after spring break and I can't wait. Changing things up a bit and adding some new elements into the mix that I haven't always made an effort to include. I'm looking forward to incorporating them now. 

5) I have also made a point in these last few weeks to carve out time for myself to just "be".  It's been the best decision I have made, helping me to be a better wife, mother, friend and person in general. Defintiely a work in progress, but forward progress is a good thing. 

With this time I have made a few decisions: getting my USAT triathlon coaching certification is going to be put on hold for a bit and I am going to wait to do any coaching or teaching until 2016. Right now, with my new schedule, I am enjoying having the ability to explore new and different classes, trainings and reading books that inspire. This opportunity allows me to process and figure out what I am passionate about in regards to wellness, health and fitness and where I would like to go with it in the future. I'm excited to see where this will all take me and where and how I will land! 

As I said to one of my friends the other day, maybe I am ACTUALLY getting wiser as I get older ... :-) 

Looking forward to a week of good health, fun and fitness. I hope you have all had a wonderful week and I'll be checking in next week!  Remember, life is short, love it and live it as fully as possible  and always remember to be kind to one another. 

Something As Simple As A Jacket ...

Well, the first anniversary of my Dad's death is approaching soon.  I always remember my Dad, being so sad and upset and sort of lost on the anniversary of his mom's death. I never fully understood until now, because that same feeling has come over me. 

My grandmother died on Valentine's Day when I was in 3rd grade. I remember this because it was her favorite holiday. I remember this because my brother Michael and I were on a ski trip that day and came home to hear the news and how sad my brother and I were to hear this news. 

With this date coming up in just a little under 4 weeks, I now COMPLETELY understand how sad he was. She was his everything, and he was my everything.  How that will ever get better, I have no clue. I'm sure with time it will ... Please tell me it will. 

This past weekend, I was telling my friend Jacque how much I missed him and shared some stories about him.  Right now, sharing them makes me miss him more. I just REALLY wish he were still here ... I know he is here in spirit, but selfishly, I would love to still be able to give him another hug, get one last kiss and hear those words, "I love you tooooooo" ... Yes, it was a long too ;-). 

There were many sad, frustrating and upsetting things that have happened this past year but SO MANY INCREDIBLY wonderful things that have happened too that I REALLY wish I could share with him. He would always smile and listen even towards the end I don't know if he really understood, but there was that unconditional love and support that I felt that made me believe that he did. 

I MISS that. I am lucky to have a pretty incredible family and some pretty amazing friends but there is nothing like the support of your father to keep one going. 

It's so funny (and not ha ha funny) how all of these feelings stirred. B brought my Dad's leather jacket out of the front hall closet and asked how it could be cleaned as he was wanting to wear it. When I saw it, I immediately cried. Not because I didn't want him to wear it (I am really happy that he has it and wants to wear it), but because I was with my father when he bought the jacket (and those memories flooded back of the healthy man he was).  We spent so much time together when I was an adult and this was just one of those times that we were out shopping. He had looked at the jacket before and had taken me back to see what I had thought about it. He was so excited to buy this jacket. One of the best purchases he ever made.  He looked so handsome in it and wore it at EVERY opportunity that he could for the rest of his life ... It was an Al (Daddy's name) staple. 

It may sound like a silly story, but it is one that I will cherish and will remember every time B wears it. 

Big sigh .... I will get through this and will continue to live life to the fullest, embracing the opportunities that life gives along the way :-). 

I'll be back next week with hopefully some fun fitness and life adventures, but this is where my head is at right now. A lot of tears but a lot of smiles too, remembering the Daddy that I miss so much. 

Back At It and Being UN-Busy ...

Well, I have been hard at work fitness wise this week, shown by all of the ever-present Headsweats visors that that are in the laundry! A staple to my training wardrobe. It's funny, most don't recognize me without one on my head!!  

It has felt great to be consistent, incredible to be getting stronger already and I am a much happier person when fitness is a part of my life. Bring on spring and summer outdoor training!!!  The half marathon training has begun (I have missed running, so it has been wonderful) and the half ironman training officially begins in April but have been building that swim and bike base enough to be ready when full training ensues.  Can't wait!!  

These past couple of months I have been lucky enough to connect and reconnect with some wonderful friends and trainers who are all here for the same reason ... Motivation, support and the desire to really help each other succeed, so it makes this journey into the 2015 so much fun!!  

With my new work schedule (week one at home a success), it has been so refreshing to have that family, work, life and fitness balance that I had been missing. For a long time, I felt like I was rushing around to get EVERYTHING done ALL of the time. Now life is MUCH more relaxed and frankly, enjoyable (It all really started falling into place when I began working at Subzero).  Loving a calmer life.  Being busy isn't always better.  So many glorify the busy  ... Such an unproductive mindset for me ... I know I was exhausted when I was busy all of the time. I felt like a hamster on a never-ending wheel.  Life is simply TOO short to live life like that. 

One area I am working on that goes along with the above theme is unplugging  more ... Putting the phone away and leaving it there. Needs to be done for so many reasons and I am looking forward to the challenge (as it will be a challenge). 

This weekend has been really fun ... Seeing old friends, spending time with my friend Alison and her new puppy that she is training to become a service companion (this is number 15).  Such a gift she selflessly gives to others. I made spaghetti and heart shaped meatballs last night and spent the day relaxing with the Hubcap and Sparky as she was feeling a little under the weather.  At 2:30 this morning, I was able to pick up my Jack from school after a show choir competition in Indiana and give him a hug (always miss him when he is gone).  Today, a date with the hubcap at Costco. If you know anything about me, I LOVE Costco, so definitely fun. A little laundry, cleanup, time on the couch in front of the fire reading a book possibly with a glass of wine ... The heart is happy. 

My priorities for the week ahead, get the training in, get the work done and make time for the activities and people you love ... It is definitely worth it. 

I hope you have all had a wonderful week. I'll be back next week with some fun adventures, fitness adventures and cabin stories! Enjoy and remember, life is short, live it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Winning ...

Well, after a 2014 that was not the best whatsoever physically, professionally, mentally, and fitness wise, I am happy to say that I have made it through it and am better and stronger for it.

The loss of my uterus, ovaries and cervix was harder on me than I thought it would be. The positives being that I would not go down the path of cancer again in any of those areas, so the decision to have the surgery SO worth it.  However, my body was rocked with other unexpected issues that I didn't talk about with many. The weight gain, the hot flashes and the insomnia have been a big challenge for me as I no longer have any real metabolism nor do I have any estrogen flowing through my body. Combine that with all of the cancer treatments from, yes 5 years ago, made this chick a hot mess.  

After a long discussion with my Oncologist in September (prompted by a big nudge from one of my oldest friends Barbie), I am now on an estrogen patch (feel good about the decision) and the hot flashes are gone ... Weight loss has been a slow progression, but there is progress, so still consider the whole package win number one. 

The loss of my father also rocked my world in so many ways.  He was such an important part of my life and I miss him more than I could ever know.  He was one that embraced life and lived it to the fullest, making everyone he met feel like they were the most important person in the world ... He was an extraordinary man. My goal is to carry on that legacy and enjoy and embrace life the same way that he did. So proud that he is my Daddy. 

Professionally, it was also a challenging year. Without getting into much detail as I still want to remain professional (and after this post, I'll be done writing about the club). Leaving the gym was the best move for me. They were moving in a direction that did not match with my own fitness philosophy and vision. I made the decison to leave the environment as it was affecting my health and happiness.  I do not miss it there, but do miss some of my favorite co-workers and the members. They were my heart and soul and kept me there longer than I should have stayed. I am lucky to still have some of those people in my life. 

I was fortunate of to get a job with Zoro (a subsidiary of Grainger) quickly after I left the club. What a gift to get my feet wet again in a traditional workplace. I am grateful for that opportunity, but it was not the right fit as I have always been an active parent with both of my kiddos and it did not work with the priorities that I have always worked so hard to maintain. I learned so much, had wonderful co-workers and came out with new friends to boot, so it was a good move.   

In December, I was lucky enough to find a "home" with Subzero-Wolf. They are a wonderful company to work for. I am blessed that I am able to work part-time from home and am so glad I have found my work happy place again. It was tough finishing up training and leaving such an incredible group of people that I have gotten to know over the last six weeks, but am happy to not have to white-knuckle it on the way to or from work anymore. It'll be a short 100 feet to the home office.  What a gift and I am looking forward to working there for a LONG time. I call that win number two.  

Mentally, with the challenges mentioned above, it was not the best year. There was a lot I needed to work through, a lot I needed to let go of and a lot that I needed to process.  Resolving and figuring out all of the above was a big roadblock and I am glad I am on the other side of that. Win number three. 

As far as fitness goes, again, the above mentioned defintiely were a obstacles as to what I could do, what I wanted to do and what I had the energy to do. I am happy to report that this is all moving in the right direction. I have a plan, I have some wonderful friends, trainers and family to support me and to help me get back to where I need and want to be. I almost have my race schedule completed and am truly looking forward to racing and having fun out there this season (I will not "win" per say, but will win when I cross the finish line of each race) ... So that is win number four. 

With all of that "winning" (I almost put a photo of Charie Sheen on here), I must say that it feels good to have "ME" back and to smile again. I knew it would be a long process, but as the signature reads on all of my emails, "Life is Curly, don't try to straighten it out", defines life perfectly. We may want to try to straighten everything out, but there is a plan and a reason for everything and everyone. We may just not always quite know what it is while it's happening ... We just have to roll with all of the many different size "curls" that come along.

SO, with this current "curl" ... Look out!  This chick will be on the move pounding the pavement around Milton, in classes at some of my new favorite fitness facilities, on two wheels exploring Wisconsin or swimming like a fishy in a pool or in the open water ... give a shout out if you happen so see me!!! 

I hope you have all had a great weekend and enjoy the week ahead. I've had a blast spending time with the kiddos watching them participate in things that bring them joy. That always warms my heart. 

I'll be back on a weekly basis with "exciting" life and fitness adventures :-). Thanks for being patient and hanging around. Let 2015 Rock and remember to be kind to one another. 

She Is Back ...

It's been a really long time but a break was needed. 

Can't believe that in less than less than 2 weeks, it will be 2015!!  

This year has been interesting to say the least, but looking forward to the year ahead and what is in store personally, professionally and fitness-wise. 

Personally, after I left the club, I was a little lost as it was my second home for a long time. It was definitely the BEST decision to move on and move forward but was a little out of sorts. I am grateful that I was able to connect with so many there (I had a wonderful fitness family at the Club) and am even happier that there are still many that I keep in contact with and will continue to do so. That means the world to me. In that process, I lost my fitness groove but a mental reset was needed. I'm happy to  report that the groove is back and am enjoying every minute of it.  I have learned to love working out by myself and have been to Athlete X and the Y, enjoying both. I DO need to take off the skirt and get outside to run. I miss it. 

Professionally things have been changing.  The decision to leave the club was a good one and necessary for my health and happiness.  Fitness needed to be my own again and the club and I were growing in different directions.  So it was time to move onward.  WillI I teach again?  Yes, I'm sure I will (it is a passion of mine). Working on determining where and exactly what that will be, but right now, I am enjoying being the participant and am not rushing into anything. 

After leaving the club, I was also fortunate to be able to work for Zoro (a wholly owned subsidiary of Grainger) for a short time. It was a wonderful growing company but just not the right fit for the me, my family and for me to continue to be the hands on Mom that I have always been. 

It was a great experience but am REALLY excited to announce that as of Monday, December 29th, I will be a product support representative Subzero-Wolf!!!  I will have an 8 week training program in Madison (Madison area peeps - let's make plans to get together). After the training period has ended, I will be working part-time from home. I feel so fortunate to have been given this opportunity.  I look forward to the challenge and to also have that work/family/fitness balance again. I do not want to be the busiest person that people know. 

Fitness-wise, I have a few things happening. Nothing too aggressive on the race schedule but one that will keep me moving.  Last year was tough with surgery, losing Dad, the car accident, and all of Ted's health issues, as well as other family health issues, so I really didn't race at all, except for the Wisconsin Half. Fun to run with a friend. That was about all she wrote for races this past season and I am ok with that. 

This year, there are a few races planned but mostly riding, running and swimming for fun. There could be a few last minute ones that pop up though. You never know.  The plans will be just enough to keep me consistant to potentially prepare for the Full Iron Distance in 2016. We will see. I do have a tendency to overcommit (as a few friends MAY have told me this a FEW times before). Working on that one.  Baby steps people. 

The biggest and most exciting thing that I am working on is, in 2015, I am going to strive to become a USAT Level 1 Triathlon Coach!  Really looking forward to that. 

That's all there is for now.  I do hope this holiday season you all can find joy and peace and always remember that life is good. Enjoy it, love it and be kind to one another. 

I'll leave you with words from my friend Christi. 💗. Love to you all. 

A Good Week Overall ...

I have to say as far as weeks go, this has been a good one. Feel great about my workouts, getting them in most days this week. The eating has been pretty clean, so another plus. We will see what the scale says on Monday ;-).  It's been productive at work, accomplishing what I need to take care of and finish up before my last day on August 28th. 

As usual, we had a wonderful weekend up north. The kids had fun bringing friends up and one of my oldest a dearest friends Barbie came up too. Relaxing fun all around. Always recharges me for the following week when we are at the Stoned Loon Lodge. Love the simple life in the northwoods. Working on carrying that over to our world in Milton. Uncluttered and a slower paced home life makes for a happy mama. Baby steps but we will get there. 

This week should be another good one  with "Making the Move" for Sparky (the transition to middle school class), a trip to Madison to see Mom a/k/a Grandma, work and workouts as well as some more down time ... And of course the new career search :-). It's so exciting to see all of the possibilities that are out there. 

Time to unpack and get settled from the weekend!  Hope you have all had a wonderful week and enjoy the week ahead.  I'll be back Sunday.  And as always, remember that life is good. Enjoy it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Making Fitness My Own Again ...

This Chica has a long way to go ... But I am finally ready to take back my fitness, lose the weight I have gained since Ironman Wisconsin last year (the complete hysterectomy is making this a little more challenging - but I WILL get there) and looking forward getting back to the self that loves triathlon, cycling running, strength training ... And yoga too ;-).  They are my personal passions and I miss them.  As I sit in the car putting together my 2015 race schedule, I'm excited to begin the prep and training to go after it this next year :-). 

I do have specific goals that I have set for myself which I'll share as I go ... But am excited to make sure to take the time to fill my health and fitness "bucket" first instead of last (this happens to so many of us).  We only have one life, so we need to make the best of the life we are given. Personally speaking, filling my fitness bucket, makes me a better and happier person in every aspect life ... So guessing it's a win-win for everyone ;-).  

With the announcement of me leaving club this past week, the employment search is underway in full force.  Only 18 more days at the club ... I'll have the time to focus on really working on finding the best fit.  There are some incredible opportunities out there ... And know one of them will come my way before I know it!  Really looking forward this unknown new adventure!  

Hope you've had a wonderful week ahead and I'll be back next weekend!    Enjoy the night and remember that life is good. Enjoy it, love it and be kind to one another. 

NEWS and Cha, Cha, Cha Changes!!!

Well, it has been an interesting week!  I can honestly say that I feel really good about the decision I have recently made.  

So ... this may come as a surprise to all or most of you, but on Monday July 28th, I have resigned as the Group Fitness and Personal Training Manager at my gym.  This has been something I have been thinking about for quite some time and now feel that the timing is right.

I am needing to do what is best for me and my family and make fitness my own again.  I will still be employed at the club, subbing group fitness classes when I am available and potentially still offering small group classes.  My official last day in my current role won't be until August 31st, but I am needing to take this step and am excited for life's next adventure,  whatever that may be!!   

It has been such a hard decision to make and I will miss seeing all of my peeps that have been so supportive over the last 7 years.  They have been through so much with me as I have been with all of them, but this is what's best.  Change IS good  and I will still be around, just in a different capacity :-).    

With that being said, I have started my job/career search.  I am being selective as to what I want to do and where I want to go.  As when we work, whether it be in the home or outside of the home, we spend most of our waking hours with our work family ... Where I land and make my work home, needs to be the right fit for me and for the company I am connected with.  I am not looking to work at a gym, but potentially some other part of the fitness industry or would love something completely different too. 

I AM looking for full-time or close to full-time employment.  I have a BA in Communications/Media and was a residential and commercial closing officer for about 15 years (hard to imagine me not in athletic wear right?), have also been in inside sales, customer service and in banking for a short while.  So, if you are looking or know of anyone that is looking for an outgoing, positive, well rounded, versatile and dedicated employee, please don't hesitate to send me a message and I will gladly shoot a out a resume. 

As far as the November marathon goes ... I have made the decision to step down to the half marathon. It's the best choice at this time and one that I am happy about.  Next year is the year for the half ironman (maybe even 2). And who knows, maybe in 2016, ironman number 3 will be on the schedule ... The proverbial seed has been planted ;-). 

Both my family and I are so excited and looking forward to this new chapter in life and would love it if you would all stay along for the ride!!!  Hope you've had a wonderful week ahead and I'll be back next weekend with another piece to add.    Enjoy the night and remember that life is good. Enjoy it, love it and be kind to one another. 

Good Weekend and The Week Ahead ...

We had a wonderful weekend up north celebrating B's birthday. Quiet, relaxing and great fun all around with the Wilkinson clan. Also enjoyed spending time with the Beisters too. Love all of our up north friends!  Just what we needed. Keeping it short and simple this week ... Next week, there will be more to share :-). 

I'm including a picture from the weekend of B and our niece Charlotte. She was loving "driving" the boat!  

Until next week ... Enjoy your night and remember to be kind to one another!! 

Back to Reality ...

It was a good week in the Northwoods. Well, everyday in the Northwoods is a good one. Weather was just ok but the kids had a blast outside disconnected and hanging out with friends and fun was had by all.  B and I had to ask each other several times what day it was ... That is a successful vacation!!  

I'm sad that it's over but happy to be home. 

I did do a little running and TRX while we were here. This next week, the work truly starts for the marathon training and to get myself back to where I want to be physically (more on that next week). 

I have got my work cut out for me training for this race, but it'll be good for me and will force me to carve time out for myself make myself a priority. I have been failing at that miserably lately ... Working on that ever so important word "NO" again. Lookout, it's coming!!  

We are back to paradise next weekend ... Celebrating B's birthday. Should be a really nice weekend with the Wilkinson clan!  

My two faves in Boulder Junction :-). 

Have a great week and remember, be kind to one another.