It's been a bit since I posted and I need to do a better job because it helps me stay accountable to getting back on track. This past week was a great workout week for me, well except for the fact that I'm extremely disappointed with how far I've fallen off track but no point beating myself up over something I can't go back in time and fix.
Week Nov21-27
Bike - 3 sessions - 43 miles. Since I'm a fair weather girl this is all indoor riding.
Run - 3 sessions - 7.5 miles. Starting over at the 2 mile mark.
Strength Training - 2 sessions.
Plan for next Week Nov28-Dec4
Bike - 3 sessions
Run - 3 sessions
Strength Training - 3 sessions
Since my swimming has been non existent this off season, I've decided to wait till after vacation to get back on track. I know this week is going to be crammed with some late work days and getting things ready to leave that it makes no sense to try to get back on track with the swimming.
I've extended by weight loss goal to be a bit more realistic than what I previously had and have set a reward for myself when I get there. I would like to be at my goal weight in Feb2011 and when I get there I get a NEW bike. I so want a Tri bike!!!
It's still an uphill battle but I know that I can do it!
I love Music
Tonight on my way home from work, a song from my high school days came on the radio and my entire mood changed. Unfortunately it was from a very sad time and tears immediately came to my eyes. I'm always amazed by the power of music and how it can change your mood in a moment. I love all types of music....
I remember singing "The Halls of Montezuma" with my grandfather when I was a kid.
My love for ABBA definitely comes from my parents 8 tracks.
Too Short "Freaky Tales" continues to be one of my favorite rhymes. I was introduced to Too Short by an old co-worker Jay.
I cry every time I hear "God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood.
the list goes on and on..... I think it's great when a song can change your day.
Whitney Houston has her issues but when she sang the National Anthem at the Super Bowl it was amazing and you can't tell me you weren't proud to be an American.
Celine Dion singing "God Bless America" wow!!
Beyonce singing "Listen" OMG
LeAnn Rimes signing "Blue" It was written for Patsy Cline and NOBODY would or could do that song justice. You can hear Patsy in LeAnn's voice.
My list can go on and on and I haven't even come close to some of my favorites. Satellite radio allows me to go from Country to 90's, 80's, 70's, 60's, 50's, Love, Elvis radio, Classic Vinyl........
I hope you feel the same way!!
I remember singing "The Halls of Montezuma" with my grandfather when I was a kid.
My love for ABBA definitely comes from my parents 8 tracks.
Too Short "Freaky Tales" continues to be one of my favorite rhymes. I was introduced to Too Short by an old co-worker Jay.
I cry every time I hear "God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood.
the list goes on and on..... I think it's great when a song can change your day.
Whitney Houston has her issues but when she sang the National Anthem at the Super Bowl it was amazing and you can't tell me you weren't proud to be an American.
Celine Dion singing "God Bless America" wow!!
Beyonce singing "Listen" OMG
LeAnn Rimes signing "Blue" It was written for Patsy Cline and NOBODY would or could do that song justice. You can hear Patsy in LeAnn's voice.
My list can go on and on and I haven't even come close to some of my favorites. Satellite radio allows me to go from Country to 90's, 80's, 70's, 60's, 50's, Love, Elvis radio, Classic Vinyl........
I hope you feel the same way!!
2010 Triathlon Season is over, back to weight loss goals
My 2010 Triathlon Season is over. My goal was to complete 7 events - I completed 5 of those 7 events.
I'm already looking forward to the 2011 season which I plan to complete an Olympic distance Triathlon. I'm still trying to decide which event I'm going to do, right now I'm between Columbia Tri in May and Nations Tri in September. I'll still participate in IronGirl and I might be doing Make A Wish again next year as a relay team with some friends. Hubby is planning on participating in the Celebration Sprint so I'll be on the sidelines supporting him. Of course I will also plan on doing Race for Cure and hopefully the Muddy Buddy and Autism Run.
My goal for the next 3 months is to focus on 3 things:
1. Weight loss - I have yet to get to my goal weight. It's actually pretty tough to train for triathlons and also lose weight. So my focus for the rest of 2010 is to get to that goal weight.
2. Swimming - Since I'm planning on doing an Olympic distance next year I have to get my swimming in better shape. I need to be able to do freestyle for all of the swim.
3. Strength Training - I let this drop off completely.
I've added a weightloss ticker to my blog and I'm hoping that will help me keep track and for anyone that might be interested in seeing how I'm doing.
I'm already looking forward to the 2011 season which I plan to complete an Olympic distance Triathlon. I'm still trying to decide which event I'm going to do, right now I'm between Columbia Tri in May and Nations Tri in September. I'll still participate in IronGirl and I might be doing Make A Wish again next year as a relay team with some friends. Hubby is planning on participating in the Celebration Sprint so I'll be on the sidelines supporting him. Of course I will also plan on doing Race for Cure and hopefully the Muddy Buddy and Autism Run.
My goal for the next 3 months is to focus on 3 things:
1. Weight loss - I have yet to get to my goal weight. It's actually pretty tough to train for triathlons and also lose weight. So my focus for the rest of 2010 is to get to that goal weight.
2. Swimming - Since I'm planning on doing an Olympic distance next year I have to get my swimming in better shape. I need to be able to do freestyle for all of the swim.
3. Strength Training - I let this drop off completely.
I've added a weightloss ticker to my blog and I'm hoping that will help me keep track and for anyone that might be interested in seeing how I'm doing.
Driving is a Privledge not a Right
It seems to me that people these days think that driving is a right not a privledge. Just because you were able to pass a written exam and maybe an actual driving test years ago doesn't mean you still know how to drive or you have the right to have a drivers license. My frustration continues to grow regarding the driving ability of people in our fine country. I'm not claiming to be the best driver and fully recognize I have improvement areas but since I live in a country in which I have the right to speak freely (provided it doesn't break any laws :>)) I'm going to use my blog to do so.
1. Turn Signals - I'm surprised at the number of car manufacturer's that have stopped installing turn signals in vehicles. I thought there were laws about using turn signals but I guess not since NOBODY uses their turn signals. I use my turn signal in my neighborhood and even when in parking lots but I clearly seem to be the only person that actually knows what they are used for. What are the statistics for traffic accidents caused by someone not using their turn signals?
2. Too much focus on cell phones and texting - what I mean by this is our wonderful government representatives that are responsible for passing laws seemed to be focused on people that are on the cell phone or texting while driving, how about passing a law that makes doing anything but driving illegal while you are driving. What about the people I pass every morning that are reading the newspaper, eating breakfast, putting on make-up or shaving. The issues go way beyond talking on the phone and texting.
3. You do not own the road - yes we all pay taxes but so do people that actually use crosswalks, so do people on bicycles that have a legal right to be on the roads. Yes there are people that jay walk and think you must stop for them, yes there are cyclists and motorcyclists that do not obey the rules of the road but there are many that do obey those rules.
4. Riding my A$$ won't make me drive faster - when I'm already going above the speed limit (I know that is breaking the law) and you continue to ride my a$$ don't think I'm going to drive faster. More than likely your weaving in and out of traffic, cutting people off and slamming on your breaks will actually cause us to arrive to our destinations at the same time or I might even get there before you.
5. Give yourself enough time to get to your destination - when the weather is bad, that means you should allow more time to get to where you are going. It's like one of the golden rules!
OK, so I could go on and on but for now this list makes me happy!
1. Turn Signals - I'm surprised at the number of car manufacturer's that have stopped installing turn signals in vehicles. I thought there were laws about using turn signals but I guess not since NOBODY uses their turn signals. I use my turn signal in my neighborhood and even when in parking lots but I clearly seem to be the only person that actually knows what they are used for. What are the statistics for traffic accidents caused by someone not using their turn signals?
2. Too much focus on cell phones and texting - what I mean by this is our wonderful government representatives that are responsible for passing laws seemed to be focused on people that are on the cell phone or texting while driving, how about passing a law that makes doing anything but driving illegal while you are driving. What about the people I pass every morning that are reading the newspaper, eating breakfast, putting on make-up or shaving. The issues go way beyond talking on the phone and texting.
3. You do not own the road - yes we all pay taxes but so do people that actually use crosswalks, so do people on bicycles that have a legal right to be on the roads. Yes there are people that jay walk and think you must stop for them, yes there are cyclists and motorcyclists that do not obey the rules of the road but there are many that do obey those rules.
4. Riding my A$$ won't make me drive faster - when I'm already going above the speed limit (I know that is breaking the law) and you continue to ride my a$$ don't think I'm going to drive faster. More than likely your weaving in and out of traffic, cutting people off and slamming on your breaks will actually cause us to arrive to our destinations at the same time or I might even get there before you.
5. Give yourself enough time to get to your destination - when the weather is bad, that means you should allow more time to get to where you are going. It's like one of the golden rules!
OK, so I could go on and on but for now this list makes me happy!
Make A Wish 2010
S- 38:15
T1- 2:36
B - 1:29:30
T2 - 2:31
R - 1:20:39
Overall - 3:33:28.50
Weather - It was HOT. The weatherman said it was suppose to be in the 80's but it actually was in the 90's. Since I did this as a relay with SueT, we were the last group to start so it was close to 8 am before she got in the water which results in biking and running in the heat.
S - SueT did the swim and the swim was definitely with the current.
T1 - pretty easy - SueT already had the chip off and put it on my ankle and I was ready to go.
B - I liked the flatness of this course and that was about it. The roads weren't that great - lots of gravel and very bumpy. There were also lots of turns, so you were never able to build up some good speed. The longest straight away was a bit over 3 miles. The wind was there - as expected. It always amazes me that you can ride with the wind in your face all the time. That definitely slowed me down.
T2 - Decent time - I just needed to swap out bike gear for run gear, grabbed Gatorade and Clif Shot Blok.
R - My legs were jello-too me awhile before I was comfortable running. The majority of the run was a walk/run. It was so hot and my body was not enjoying the heat.
Overall - I had a good time and it was a good challenge. Two days later, I'm feeling pretty good, shins are tight but no other aches and pains. Again have to thank both hubbies for coming out to support us. Particularly my hubby since it was his bday.
T1- 2:36
B - 1:29:30
T2 - 2:31
R - 1:20:39
Overall - 3:33:28.50
Weather - It was HOT. The weatherman said it was suppose to be in the 80's but it actually was in the 90's. Since I did this as a relay with SueT, we were the last group to start so it was close to 8 am before she got in the water which results in biking and running in the heat.
S - SueT did the swim and the swim was definitely with the current.
T1 - pretty easy - SueT already had the chip off and put it on my ankle and I was ready to go.
B - I liked the flatness of this course and that was about it. The roads weren't that great - lots of gravel and very bumpy. There were also lots of turns, so you were never able to build up some good speed. The longest straight away was a bit over 3 miles. The wind was there - as expected. It always amazes me that you can ride with the wind in your face all the time. That definitely slowed me down.
T2 - Decent time - I just needed to swap out bike gear for run gear, grabbed Gatorade and Clif Shot Blok.
R - My legs were jello-too me awhile before I was comfortable running. The majority of the run was a walk/run. It was so hot and my body was not enjoying the heat.
Overall - I had a good time and it was a good challenge. Two days later, I'm feeling pretty good, shins are tight but no other aches and pains. Again have to thank both hubbies for coming out to support us. Particularly my hubby since it was his bday.
IronGirl2010
Today was the IronGirl. This my last full triathlon of the year (Make A Wish in September I'm only biking and running). I was looking forward to this race as I was hoping to beat my time from last year and I was successful.
Swim - 29:48
T1 - 4:21
Bike - 1:11:19
T2 - 2:49
Run - 39:53
Total finish - 2:28:07
Weather - I have to comment on the weather because it was definitely a factor. It has been raining in Frederick and while driving to Centennial Park the rain stopped and I thought ok the weather is going to turn out to be good. hmm, no suck luck. I had set up my transition area, came back to the Durango to relax and it starts to rain. It rained off and on before the race started and as my wave got in the water the rain really started to come down. It didn't let up and rained on rained pretty good on the bike and run.
Swim - I knew that I had not trained enough for the swim but knew I could do it. So I went in knowing that I was going to side stroke and breast stroke the entire way. The wave I was in wasn't too bad as far as people running into me. I just relaxed and enjoyed the rain and when I got out of the water I felt pretty good. Looked down at my watch and realized I had beat my time for last years IG and the Celebration Sprint earlier this year.
Bike - Dried my feet as best I could before putting socks on but didn't matter because it rained pretty hard on the bike that my shoes and socks were soaked. I was planning on taking it easy because of the bad weather but still decided to push hard. I heard somewhere that you are in more control when you are pedaling than when you are coasting so that was my strategy. I had one near wipe out when a minivan was ahead of me and stopped to turn left leaving little to no room on the side to pass and I was going downhill will a couple other racers in front of me. I tried to apply breaks as light as possible but as I got closer the girls in front of me were slamming on their brakes. I jumped on my brakes and the back wheel went sliding right, I can't believe I actually recovered.
Run - Was very worried about blisters because my socks and feet were soaking wet but luckily didn't have that problem. The run went well, I did walk up some of the steep hills (Gatorade Hill).
Wrap-up - I actually felt great for all legs of the race, I was not totally exhausted after the swim and felt good on the bike and run. This is my personal best for this distance so far, my swim and run were faster. My bike was slower than the first IG but with the rain I think I should get a break.
Again this year, hubby was there standing in the rain taking pictures and cheering me on as well as my good friends E & J. Having all of them there meant so much to me!
Swim - 29:48
T1 - 4:21
Bike - 1:11:19
T2 - 2:49
Run - 39:53
Total finish - 2:28:07
Weather - I have to comment on the weather because it was definitely a factor. It has been raining in Frederick and while driving to Centennial Park the rain stopped and I thought ok the weather is going to turn out to be good. hmm, no suck luck. I had set up my transition area, came back to the Durango to relax and it starts to rain. It rained off and on before the race started and as my wave got in the water the rain really started to come down. It didn't let up and rained on rained pretty good on the bike and run.
Swim - I knew that I had not trained enough for the swim but knew I could do it. So I went in knowing that I was going to side stroke and breast stroke the entire way. The wave I was in wasn't too bad as far as people running into me. I just relaxed and enjoyed the rain and when I got out of the water I felt pretty good. Looked down at my watch and realized I had beat my time for last years IG and the Celebration Sprint earlier this year.
Bike - Dried my feet as best I could before putting socks on but didn't matter because it rained pretty hard on the bike that my shoes and socks were soaked. I was planning on taking it easy because of the bad weather but still decided to push hard. I heard somewhere that you are in more control when you are pedaling than when you are coasting so that was my strategy. I had one near wipe out when a minivan was ahead of me and stopped to turn left leaving little to no room on the side to pass and I was going downhill will a couple other racers in front of me. I tried to apply breaks as light as possible but as I got closer the girls in front of me were slamming on their brakes. I jumped on my brakes and the back wheel went sliding right, I can't believe I actually recovered.
Run - Was very worried about blisters because my socks and feet were soaking wet but luckily didn't have that problem. The run went well, I did walk up some of the steep hills (Gatorade Hill).
Wrap-up - I actually felt great for all legs of the race, I was not totally exhausted after the swim and felt good on the bike and run. This is my personal best for this distance so far, my swim and run were faster. My bike was slower than the first IG but with the rain I think I should get a break.
Again this year, hubby was there standing in the rain taking pictures and cheering me on as well as my good friends E & J. Having all of them there meant so much to me!
Happy Birthday to me.....40, really?
So today I turned 40 but I don't feel 40. What is 40 suppose to feel like? I remember as a kid that 40 seemed old but I don't feel old, maybe some of the young kids think I'm old but I'm NOT old. My mom and I are 20 years and 20 days apart so that means at my age she had a 20 year old. Many people I went to high school with have kids and some have grandkids, not me. So what does that mean?
I don't know what I should have accomplished by 40 but I know that I have accomplished a lot. I would be lying if I didn't say that I wished I was 10 years younger but does that mean I havent' enjoyed the past 10 years? No I've definitely enjoyed the past 10 years, maybe a bit too much at times. But life is good!
Just because I'm 40 doesn't mean I have to act 40, besides everyone says that 40 is the new 20. So I'm going to live life like I'm 20, well maybe 21, that way I can drink:>)
I have much to be thankful for!
I don't know what I should have accomplished by 40 but I know that I have accomplished a lot. I would be lying if I didn't say that I wished I was 10 years younger but does that mean I havent' enjoyed the past 10 years? No I've definitely enjoyed the past 10 years, maybe a bit too much at times. But life is good!
Just because I'm 40 doesn't mean I have to act 40, besides everyone says that 40 is the new 20. So I'm going to live life like I'm 20, well maybe 21, that way I can drink:>)
I have much to be thankful for!
August
Today is the first day of August...couple big things happen in August for me:
1. Birthday - big 40 this year - thanks to triathlons I already feel 40 (Triathlons put you in the age grp for the age you will be on 12/31 - so this yr I'm in the 40-44 age grp instead of 35-39. I've been told that since I'm at the young end of that age grp I will do better. I don't think it turns out that way.
I don't really get to celebrate until after the next item.
2. IronGirl 2010 - this will be my 2nd year in the IG, which is 3 weeks from today. As always nervous and not feeling prepared. This is my next to last race of the season, the last race is in September, Make a Wish tri.
So I'm looking forward to a fun month and even more looking forward to September when we can go on vacation to Texas - yippee!!!!
1. Birthday - big 40 this year - thanks to triathlons I already feel 40 (Triathlons put you in the age grp for the age you will be on 12/31 - so this yr I'm in the 40-44 age grp instead of 35-39. I've been told that since I'm at the young end of that age grp I will do better. I don't think it turns out that way.
I don't really get to celebrate until after the next item.
2. IronGirl 2010 - this will be my 2nd year in the IG, which is 3 weeks from today. As always nervous and not feeling prepared. This is my next to last race of the season, the last race is in September, Make a Wish tri.
So I'm looking forward to a fun month and even more looking forward to September when we can go on vacation to Texas - yippee!!!!
Reasons why today was a bad day
Today was just not a good day, 3 days before my next tri event and I'm skipping the gym and having a few beers.
1. I do not like snakes, particularly the human kind.
2. My knee still hurts, I knew there wasn't going to be any miracle turn around but it still HURTS.
3. Felt like throwing up this morning when I scheduled my certification test.
4. Felt like throwing up again when the snake came out.
5. I do not like spiders, just like snakes they sneak up on you and are creepy.
But....
1. I have my health - yes while I still have about 25 lbs to lose, I'm think I'm healthier than I have ever been in my life.
2. I have a wonderful hubby - who listens to me cry and complain, which is why he is my hubby and I love him very much.
3. I have great friends - those that read this site will read it and send me a note letting me know that all will be fine. This is why they are my friends and I love them too!
So....
1. Blogging/writing/talking on the telephone/chatting is all just a way if venting when life frustrates you.
2. I know others have a bad day and I just want them to realize they aren't alone.
Tomorrow will be better because when you really sit down and look back at your day you realize it wasn't as bad as you thought and that someone else had a worse day than you!
1. I do not like snakes, particularly the human kind.
2. My knee still hurts, I knew there wasn't going to be any miracle turn around but it still HURTS.
3. Felt like throwing up this morning when I scheduled my certification test.
4. Felt like throwing up again when the snake came out.
5. I do not like spiders, just like snakes they sneak up on you and are creepy.
But....
1. I have my health - yes while I still have about 25 lbs to lose, I'm think I'm healthier than I have ever been in my life.
2. I have a wonderful hubby - who listens to me cry and complain, which is why he is my hubby and I love him very much.
3. I have great friends - those that read this site will read it and send me a note letting me know that all will be fine. This is why they are my friends and I love them too!
So....
1. Blogging/writing/talking on the telephone/chatting is all just a way if venting when life frustrates you.
2. I know others have a bad day and I just want them to realize they aren't alone.
Tomorrow will be better because when you really sit down and look back at your day you realize it wasn't as bad as you thought and that someone else had a worse day than you!
Autism 5K, Potomac MD Race Report
I was looking forward to this race because it is for a good cause and it gives me and the hubby an opportunity to show our support for Autism.
Much to my surprise the weather was beautiful this morning for running. A nice and cool morning that heated up very quickly, but only after we finished our run.
My official time was 34:15, a pace of 11:03 per mile. I finished 735th out of 1050 overall and 37th out of the 71 Women 35 - 39 (unlike USAT rules, I was still in the 35-39 age category).
The course was in Potomac, MD and there were lots of hills. I started out slow but finished well. The hubby was of course much faster than I was but I never claim to run fast.
About mile 2ish my right knee really started bothering me, particularly coming down hills where there was a lot of pressure on the knee cap. After the race it hurt so bad that I could barely walk, after a 45 minute drive home with the top down in the TT and some coffee, it seemed to feel a bit better and as of this posting it's doing much better. I'm tentatively scheduled to ride tomorrow so we will see how it does.
Much to my surprise the weather was beautiful this morning for running. A nice and cool morning that heated up very quickly, but only after we finished our run.
My official time was 34:15, a pace of 11:03 per mile. I finished 735th out of 1050 overall and 37th out of the 71 Women 35 - 39 (unlike USAT rules, I was still in the 35-39 age category).
The course was in Potomac, MD and there were lots of hills. I started out slow but finished well. The hubby was of course much faster than I was but I never claim to run fast.
About mile 2ish my right knee really started bothering me, particularly coming down hills where there was a lot of pressure on the knee cap. After the race it hurt so bad that I could barely walk, after a 45 minute drive home with the top down in the TT and some coffee, it seemed to feel a bit better and as of this posting it's doing much better. I'm tentatively scheduled to ride tomorrow so we will see how it does.
Celebration Sprint Tri Race Report
Yesterday was the Celebration Sprint Triathlon (.62 mile swim, 17.5 mile bike, 3.4 mile bike).
I was looking forward to this race as it was my first of the season but I was also very anxious as I know I did not properly prepare for the swim. I think I actually spent less time in the pool in prep for this race than I did the Iron Girl last year. But I was excited to get back into the race atmosphere and challenge myself.
Swim - 31:37
T1 - 4:23
Bike - 1:10:23
T2 - 2:30
Run - 43:24
Total finish - 2:32:16
My overall time was slightly, by a few seconds, faster than the 2009 Iron Girl.
Swim - WOW, I was VERY anxious, the water was uber warm so that didn't help and the seaweed, vegetation, water plants whatever you want to call them was REALLY thick, particularly at the beginning and end of the swim. This put me into a major panic, I did freestyle for about a 1/2 sec then realized I needed to calm down or I was not going to make it. I was hoping to do at least 1/2 the distance free style, that did not happen but I finished. It turned out my swim was slightly faster than the 2009 IG swim
Bike - I went out strong and finished strong, my legs are paying for that today but I did well, overall I was a couple minutes faster than the 2009 IG and didn't have any chain issues. My average speed was about 5 mph faster than 2009 IG.
Run - HOT, HOT, HOT. My run was slower than the 2009 IG by a couple of minutes, I walked probably 1/4 - 1/2 of the run and consumed more beverages than I have in the past. I'm glad that I wasn't still racing at 1-2 p.m. in the afternoon because it got even hotter. I need to work on some bricks (back to back events) and I think that will help me out with the run. If I reserved a bit of energy from the bike I might have had better legs.
Unfortunately going into the race I just wasn't feeling right, I wasn't relaxed and overall was just worried about how I would do. No excuses here just writing how I felt.
Hagerstown Tri (shorter distance) is in 4 weeks, the swim is in a pool, yippee. Less than 24 hours after my first race I'm excited about the next race. Immediately after a race you get feelings that question why you do things. But do you think this is crazy and you don't want to do it anymore or do you immediately start to analyze areas where you can improve and move on to the next race, I have done that. At this point triathlons are about me and improving my race times but ultimately just about being happy. Yes it's always fun to beat others, particularly people younger than you but that is not where the joy really comes from.
Once again, I have to thank all my friends that sent well wishes before the race, they mean a great deal to me and are VERY MUCH appreciated. I have some GREAT friends. And of course I couldn't do all of this without the support of my WONDERFUL hubby. He stood out in the heat taking pictures and waiting for me. I saw him when I got out of the swim, when I was coming in from the bike and at the finish line. It means the world to me that he supports my crazy ideas and his words of encouragement always get me through. THANK YOU!
I was looking forward to this race as it was my first of the season but I was also very anxious as I know I did not properly prepare for the swim. I think I actually spent less time in the pool in prep for this race than I did the Iron Girl last year. But I was excited to get back into the race atmosphere and challenge myself.
Swim - 31:37
T1 - 4:23
Bike - 1:10:23
T2 - 2:30
Run - 43:24
Total finish - 2:32:16
My overall time was slightly, by a few seconds, faster than the 2009 Iron Girl.
Swim - WOW, I was VERY anxious, the water was uber warm so that didn't help and the seaweed, vegetation, water plants whatever you want to call them was REALLY thick, particularly at the beginning and end of the swim. This put me into a major panic, I did freestyle for about a 1/2 sec then realized I needed to calm down or I was not going to make it. I was hoping to do at least 1/2 the distance free style, that did not happen but I finished. It turned out my swim was slightly faster than the 2009 IG swim
Bike - I went out strong and finished strong, my legs are paying for that today but I did well, overall I was a couple minutes faster than the 2009 IG and didn't have any chain issues. My average speed was about 5 mph faster than 2009 IG.
Run - HOT, HOT, HOT. My run was slower than the 2009 IG by a couple of minutes, I walked probably 1/4 - 1/2 of the run and consumed more beverages than I have in the past. I'm glad that I wasn't still racing at 1-2 p.m. in the afternoon because it got even hotter. I need to work on some bricks (back to back events) and I think that will help me out with the run. If I reserved a bit of energy from the bike I might have had better legs.
Unfortunately going into the race I just wasn't feeling right, I wasn't relaxed and overall was just worried about how I would do. No excuses here just writing how I felt.
Hagerstown Tri (shorter distance) is in 4 weeks, the swim is in a pool, yippee. Less than 24 hours after my first race I'm excited about the next race. Immediately after a race you get feelings that question why you do things. But do you think this is crazy and you don't want to do it anymore or do you immediately start to analyze areas where you can improve and move on to the next race, I have done that. At this point triathlons are about me and improving my race times but ultimately just about being happy. Yes it's always fun to beat others, particularly people younger than you but that is not where the joy really comes from.
Once again, I have to thank all my friends that sent well wishes before the race, they mean a great deal to me and are VERY MUCH appreciated. I have some GREAT friends. And of course I couldn't do all of this without the support of my WONDERFUL hubby. He stood out in the heat taking pictures and waiting for me. I saw him when I got out of the swim, when I was coming in from the bike and at the finish line. It means the world to me that he supports my crazy ideas and his words of encouragement always get me through. THANK YOU!
8 days and counting
My first triathlon of the season is next Sunday. I'm confident with my bike and run but the swim will kick my butt again this season. I haven't gotten to the pool as much as I have wanted too but I think I have improved my breathing a bit more than last year, so I'm really hoping to do as much freestyle as possible. That will at least give me a gauge of what I can do and what I need to work on.
This morning I did a 4.5 mile non-stop run. This is my longest run so far and it felt pretty good. I didn't look at my watch until .68 left. That always seems to be one of my biggest problems, clock watching. It was a good run, the heat hasn't kicked in yet.
If I keep at this pace, I'll be on target to be at the 6 mile mark in prep for the Make A Wish in September.
This morning I did a 4.5 mile non-stop run. This is my longest run so far and it felt pretty good. I didn't look at my watch until .68 left. That always seems to be one of my biggest problems, clock watching. It was a good run, the heat hasn't kicked in yet.
If I keep at this pace, I'll be on target to be at the 6 mile mark in prep for the Make A Wish in September.
4 weeks and counting
My first triathlon event of 2010 is in 4 weeks, ugh, that snuck up on me. Had a good workout at the gym tonight was very glad the anticipated thunderstorms held out for me to swim. I did about 600 yds, please note that is not all freestyle but I did 80% of it without stopping. That is close to 1/2 the distance of the tri swim. I think I did a good job of focusing on myself and not worrying about what others were thinking. I shared a lane with another swimmer, which is usually not my thing but I didn't let it get it get to me tonight. Besides with 4 weeks to go I don't have time for it to get to me.
Lets hope this long holiday weekend has some nice weather so I can get outside for a run and bike.
I decided today that I WILL make my goal weight by my 40th bday. It's definitely do-able as long as I stick to a sensible diet, continue to workout on a regular schedule and don't have to many "splurge" nights.
Lets hope this long holiday weekend has some nice weather so I can get outside for a run and bike.
I decided today that I WILL make my goal weight by my 40th bday. It's definitely do-able as long as I stick to a sensible diet, continue to workout on a regular schedule and don't have to many "splurge" nights.
Why?
I’ve been struggling lately. Struggling with motivation, struggling with training, struggling with weight loss, struggling to stay on the right path, struggling with my confidence, struggling to be happy with my life, struggling to see the good, struggling to be proud of myself.
I recently read an article that asked “Why do you want to be a triathlete?”
Why do I want to be a triathlete?
Because I can, that’s right nobody has told me I can’t…except for myself.
I have read and been told and know in my heart that if I learn to swim, dedicate myself to training and have the desire to do it, I can do anything.
Didn’t everyone’s parents tell them growing up…“You can be or do anything you want to do, if you just put your mind to it.”
You see I’m a people pleaser, I try to make everyone else around me happy, I do the right things for others. Until recently I never really did anything for myself. I played basketball in high school, because my dad wanted me to; don’t get me wrong I LOVE the game but at that time the drive was not for me.
I graduated college for my parents, again I wanted to graduate but the drive was not for me.
The drive has always been about making others happy and I’ve done many things in my life to make others happy and it’s about darn time I do things for myself.
Most recently I’ve started losing weight, again, but this time for myself, not anyone else. I quit smoking (3/3/2007) because I wanted to, not for anyone else. I did the Iron Girl in Columbia, MD in Aug 2009 because I wanted to, not for anyone else.
I want to be a triathlete. I want to be an Ironman some day. I want to push myself beyond my “known limits.” I want to see what my mind can make my body do. I want this to be my way of telling myself “I’m proud of you.”
An Ironman is in my future, maybe not the near future but it is in my future. I turn 40 in 93 days and I’m sure several people are saying why are you deciding to do this now, why so late in life? I say “why not.” I say it’s time to do things for me! I grew up watching Kona Ironman and being inspired by their stories to prove to themselves they can do this. I want to be part of that inspiration.
I recently read an article that asked “Why do you want to be a triathlete?”
Why do I want to be a triathlete?
Because I can, that’s right nobody has told me I can’t…except for myself.
I have read and been told and know in my heart that if I learn to swim, dedicate myself to training and have the desire to do it, I can do anything.
Didn’t everyone’s parents tell them growing up…“You can be or do anything you want to do, if you just put your mind to it.”
You see I’m a people pleaser, I try to make everyone else around me happy, I do the right things for others. Until recently I never really did anything for myself. I played basketball in high school, because my dad wanted me to; don’t get me wrong I LOVE the game but at that time the drive was not for me.
I graduated college for my parents, again I wanted to graduate but the drive was not for me.
The drive has always been about making others happy and I’ve done many things in my life to make others happy and it’s about darn time I do things for myself.
Most recently I’ve started losing weight, again, but this time for myself, not anyone else. I quit smoking (3/3/2007) because I wanted to, not for anyone else. I did the Iron Girl in Columbia, MD in Aug 2009 because I wanted to, not for anyone else.
I want to be a triathlete. I want to be an Ironman some day. I want to push myself beyond my “known limits.” I want to see what my mind can make my body do. I want this to be my way of telling myself “I’m proud of you.”
An Ironman is in my future, maybe not the near future but it is in my future. I turn 40 in 93 days and I’m sure several people are saying why are you deciding to do this now, why so late in life? I say “why not.” I say it’s time to do things for me! I grew up watching Kona Ironman and being inspired by their stories to prove to themselves they can do this. I want to be part of that inspiration.
Training Update
I always feel better when I have a good workout. Two good days of working out, I just need to remember the 4 D's - desire, dedication, determination and discipline.
Today Workouts
Bike - 45 minutes at the Y
Swim - 15 minutes, lost track of laps but did at least 400 yds, mix of freestyle and breast stroke. Felt pretty good considering it's been awhile since I have been in the pool. I'm trying to practice some of the mental exercises from a couple of books I've read/am reading to try to keep me calm, since my comfort level with the breathing isn't great.
Tuesday Workouts
Run - 3.25 miles - about 37 minutes/11:30 min mile. I was on the treadmill at home and I typically run slower at home and this was the first run back at 3.25. I feel like have been floating around the 3 mile mark for awhile so now that I'm actually in "training mode" I hope to steadily move up.
Strength Training - Lifted 2 sets for Workout A. I was scheduled to do 3 but haven't lifted in awhile so decided to go with 2 sets. Probably a good idea I was a bit sore this morning and of course I didn't do a protein shake afterwards.
Today Workouts
Bike - 45 minutes at the Y
Swim - 15 minutes, lost track of laps but did at least 400 yds, mix of freestyle and breast stroke. Felt pretty good considering it's been awhile since I have been in the pool. I'm trying to practice some of the mental exercises from a couple of books I've read/am reading to try to keep me calm, since my comfort level with the breathing isn't great.
Tuesday Workouts
Run - 3.25 miles - about 37 minutes/11:30 min mile. I was on the treadmill at home and I typically run slower at home and this was the first run back at 3.25. I feel like have been floating around the 3 mile mark for awhile so now that I'm actually in "training mode" I hope to steadily move up.
Strength Training - Lifted 2 sets for Workout A. I was scheduled to do 3 but haven't lifted in awhile so decided to go with 2 sets. Probably a good idea I was a bit sore this morning and of course I didn't do a protein shake afterwards.
Training
Now that we are back from vacation, and I'm roughly 13 weeks from my first triathlon event, I need to get focused on training for this seasons events. I've updated my training plan and the vacation definitely helped me get my head in the game. I've been reading several books about the mental aspect of training and will be adding that piece to my training this season.
The hubby and I had lots of discussions, while sitting on the beach in Barbados, about the "mental" side of my training and the fact that there is a huge need for me to focus in this area.
Today's training included:
Run - 3 miles
Swim - 300 yds
Tomorrow's plan:
Swim - 400 yds
Strength training - Workout A / 3 sets
The hubby and I had lots of discussions, while sitting on the beach in Barbados, about the "mental" side of my training and the fact that there is a huge need for me to focus in this area.
Today's training included:
Run - 3 miles
Swim - 300 yds
Tomorrow's plan:
Swim - 400 yds
Strength training - Workout A / 3 sets
Back from Barbados
We are back from our trip to Barbados. We were suppose to return home on Saturday evening in time for a few hours of sleep and then head to the Washington Caps hockey game on Sunday. Unfortunately those tickets went to waste because AA decided we needed to stay the night in Miami on Saturday. Our plane arrived late into Barbados, which made us about an hour late for takeoff, and then about 30-45 min on the tarmac waiting for a gate to open made us late for our next flight. The earliest AA could get us out of Miami was Sunday at noon.
But, as bad as the Caps played yesterday neither of us seem to be too upset about missing the game.
We had a great time in Barbados, we stayed in Almond Beach Village, the hotel was ok, room was adequate, food was fine. The best thing about the trip was the snorkeling right off the hotel beach - so we were able to snorkel 2-3 times a day.
The 2nd best thing was that I got to read A LOT
I completed the following books:
The Business of Happiness by Ted Leonsis
10 Minute Toughness by Jason Selk
Gabby: Confessions of a Hockey Lifer by Bruce Boudreau
Know Regrets by Tim Durant
and I'm 1/2 way through:
Mind Gym by Gary Mack and David Casstevens
Iron Ambition by John Callos
But, as bad as the Caps played yesterday neither of us seem to be too upset about missing the game.
We had a great time in Barbados, we stayed in Almond Beach Village, the hotel was ok, room was adequate, food was fine. The best thing about the trip was the snorkeling right off the hotel beach - so we were able to snorkel 2-3 times a day.
The 2nd best thing was that I got to read A LOT
I completed the following books:
The Business of Happiness by Ted Leonsis
10 Minute Toughness by Jason Selk
Gabby: Confessions of a Hockey Lifer by Bruce Boudreau
Know Regrets by Tim Durant
and I'm 1/2 way through:
Mind Gym by Gary Mack and David Casstevens
Iron Ambition by John Callos
2010 Race Schedule
May 2, 2010 - Muddy Buddy, Richmond, VA. The hubby and I are signed up to do this. It's a fun obstacle course that involves running and biking to the next obstacle with a big mud pit at the end. Sounds like fun!!
June 5, 2010 - Race for the Cure, Washington DC. I'm not signed up for this yet but will be running again this year as this is an annual tradition. My goal is to beat my time for last year.
June 27, 2010 - Celebration Sprint Triathlon, Columbia, MD. This is the same distance as the IronGirl Tri, .62mi Swim - 17.5mi Bike - 3.4mi Run
August 22, 2010 - AFLAC Iron Girl Triathlon, Columbia, MD. Second time for this race, .62mi Swim - 17.5mi Bike - 3.4mi Run. Sarah Reinersten will be competing in this event. Loved watching her on Amazing Race and loved her book, would be great to actually meet her.
That is all for now, possibly going to participate in the Make A Wish race but not sure yet if doing it alone or with friend!
June 5, 2010 - Race for the Cure, Washington DC. I'm not signed up for this yet but will be running again this year as this is an annual tradition. My goal is to beat my time for last year.
June 27, 2010 - Celebration Sprint Triathlon, Columbia, MD. This is the same distance as the IronGirl Tri, .62mi Swim - 17.5mi Bike - 3.4mi Run
August 22, 2010 - AFLAC Iron Girl Triathlon, Columbia, MD. Second time for this race, .62mi Swim - 17.5mi Bike - 3.4mi Run. Sarah Reinersten will be competing in this event. Loved watching her on Amazing Race and loved her book, would be great to actually meet her.
That is all for now, possibly going to participate in the Make A Wish race but not sure yet if doing it alone or with friend!
Where have you been...
Saturday morning, drinking a cup a coffee, just took my vitamins and working on my first 32 oz of water. I realized it's been a bit and that has me thinking, yea it's been a bit since you have focused on your plan. Yes I have been tri'ng to eat right. I started back to WW a few weeks ago with my WW work Buddies. That continues to be an up and down process. It's the typical do well, drop 1-2 lbs and then life happens and food happens. But that is o.k. as I tell a good friend, there are blips in the road and as long as you continue to get up, dust yourself off and get back on that path then you will succeed. It took me years to quit smoking and Wed marked 3 years since I last smoked. That achievement reminds me that anything is possible because that was one of the hardest things for me to kick.
So I've stood up, dusted myself off and I'm stepping back on the path, hope you are doing the same.
My current weight (this morning) is 166.5 so I have 21.5 lbs to get to my original goal weight of 145.
As far as working out that has been pretty constant for the past couple of weeks. I have been running and hitting the stationary bike pretty consistently at least 5 times a week. However my strength training has been extremely inconsistent (didn't do that at all this week) and of course that dreaded swimming, haven't hit the pool in several weeks.
At some point this weekend I'll take a look at my plan. Yes I have a very detailed excel spreadsheet of the schedule I'm suppose to be on. I will see where I am, update it and start following it....again. But that is fine.
Life is passing us by and I need to get off that couch. Winter is always the most difficult time for me. I HATE cold weather, yes HATE with a passion cold weather so training outside, getting motivated to do something after work or on the weekends, when there is still snow on the ground (although almost gone) becomes impossible for me.
The sun is shinning, warm weather has to be on it's way which means, getting up early on a Saturday or Sunday, heading to the hills for a hike with my wonderful hubby. There is nothing like an early morning hike with your favorite person. or, hitting the trails on the bikes to see who can lead for a quick 15-20 mile out and then back.
We are both so competitive and while he is a faster runner than me my goal is always to keep him in my site. But on the bike, I can't stand it when he leads, that is my strength and I want him behind me, that way he has something to look at :>)
So I've stood up, dusted myself off and I'm stepping back on the path, hope you are doing the same.
My current weight (this morning) is 166.5 so I have 21.5 lbs to get to my original goal weight of 145.
As far as working out that has been pretty constant for the past couple of weeks. I have been running and hitting the stationary bike pretty consistently at least 5 times a week. However my strength training has been extremely inconsistent (didn't do that at all this week) and of course that dreaded swimming, haven't hit the pool in several weeks.
At some point this weekend I'll take a look at my plan. Yes I have a very detailed excel spreadsheet of the schedule I'm suppose to be on. I will see where I am, update it and start following it....again. But that is fine.
Life is passing us by and I need to get off that couch. Winter is always the most difficult time for me. I HATE cold weather, yes HATE with a passion cold weather so training outside, getting motivated to do something after work or on the weekends, when there is still snow on the ground (although almost gone) becomes impossible for me.
The sun is shinning, warm weather has to be on it's way which means, getting up early on a Saturday or Sunday, heading to the hills for a hike with my wonderful hubby. There is nothing like an early morning hike with your favorite person. or, hitting the trails on the bikes to see who can lead for a quick 15-20 mile out and then back.
We are both so competitive and while he is a faster runner than me my goal is always to keep him in my site. But on the bike, I can't stand it when he leads, that is my strength and I want him behind me, that way he has something to look at :>)
Proud Sports Fan
For those that know me, know that I'm a huge sports fan and that I can be one of the most sappy people in the world. As I watched KU win another basketball game last night against Nebraska, and the Washington Caps beat the Pittsburgh Penguins today and as I look forward to the KU v. Texas basketball game tomorrow, I think about all the memorable sports events I have heard, watched or have been told about and I get chocked up thinking about how much sports are an influence in my life. Some are real and some are fictional, from various tv shows or movies over the years.
I love to get emotional about great moments in sports history - fictional or non fictional, because they motivate me, they give me inspiration. I can't possibly think of all the greatest moments in sports but I can think of those that are most meaning to me. So here is a list of my favorite (non fictional and then fictional) sports events:
1. Miracle On Ice - still one of my most memorable sports moments. I remember watching this game, when I was 10, then reading the book, then watching the movie that came out in 2004. Al Michaels "Do you believe in Miracles" quote - I now know how much this meant to Americans, at the time I was too young to understand. Every time I watch this movie, hear Al Michaels talk about it or watch the YouTube video I get a tear in my eye because this is a real life story about heroes, they overcame odds to win the gold medal when nobody thought they could do it.
2. Sian Welch & Wendy Ingraham - Kona Ironman 1997 - if you have never seen these ladies compete then look them up on YouTube, you need to watch it. These women battled for a 4th place finish at the biggest Ironman event, by crawling across the finish line. Their bodies had given up but their minds didn't. I still cry when I watch this video.
3. Lance Armstrong - There is no need to say anything more than his name. He is the most amazing athlete, human being, American that exists today. Yes I'm a fan, he has had an amazing career and being a 7 time Tour de France winner is amazing but his story as a cancer survivor is more amazing.
4. Dan Jansen - you remember him the guy that promised a gold medal in speed skating to his sister in the 1988 Olympics and then wiped out. He didn't finish that promise to his sister till the 1994 Olympics.
5. Sara Reinertsen - 1st time women, full leg amputee to finish Kona Ironman (yes I'm a fan). She was on the Amazing Race show, wrote a book and will be part of the 2010 Iron Girl Columbia. Her story proves that if you never give up on yourself you can be successful.
6. Team Hoyt - I'm sorry that I'm focused on the Triathlon community but again if you haven't' heard of them look them up. They are heroes, a father and son combo that has finished many races, including Kona Ironman. I won't give you more info, because I want you to look them up and hear their story, it's meaningful.
Now on to fictional quotes that apply to every day life:
1. Friday Night Lights Pre Game Speech - MY HEART is FULL.
2. We are Marshall - Pre Game Speech at Cemetery - while based on a true story, I'm not 100% sure the quotes are true so I thought it best to include it here, Speech is about overcoming adversity and about HEART - lay your heart on the line.
3. Remember the Titans - Coach Boone Speech at Gettysburg about coming together no matter race or religion. Respect each other!
I love to get emotional about great moments in sports history - fictional or non fictional, because they motivate me, they give me inspiration. I can't possibly think of all the greatest moments in sports but I can think of those that are most meaning to me. So here is a list of my favorite (non fictional and then fictional) sports events:
1. Miracle On Ice - still one of my most memorable sports moments. I remember watching this game, when I was 10, then reading the book, then watching the movie that came out in 2004. Al Michaels "Do you believe in Miracles" quote - I now know how much this meant to Americans, at the time I was too young to understand. Every time I watch this movie, hear Al Michaels talk about it or watch the YouTube video I get a tear in my eye because this is a real life story about heroes, they overcame odds to win the gold medal when nobody thought they could do it.
2. Sian Welch & Wendy Ingraham - Kona Ironman 1997 - if you have never seen these ladies compete then look them up on YouTube, you need to watch it. These women battled for a 4th place finish at the biggest Ironman event, by crawling across the finish line. Their bodies had given up but their minds didn't. I still cry when I watch this video.
3. Lance Armstrong - There is no need to say anything more than his name. He is the most amazing athlete, human being, American that exists today. Yes I'm a fan, he has had an amazing career and being a 7 time Tour de France winner is amazing but his story as a cancer survivor is more amazing.
4. Dan Jansen - you remember him the guy that promised a gold medal in speed skating to his sister in the 1988 Olympics and then wiped out. He didn't finish that promise to his sister till the 1994 Olympics.
5. Sara Reinertsen - 1st time women, full leg amputee to finish Kona Ironman (yes I'm a fan). She was on the Amazing Race show, wrote a book and will be part of the 2010 Iron Girl Columbia. Her story proves that if you never give up on yourself you can be successful.
6. Team Hoyt - I'm sorry that I'm focused on the Triathlon community but again if you haven't' heard of them look them up. They are heroes, a father and son combo that has finished many races, including Kona Ironman. I won't give you more info, because I want you to look them up and hear their story, it's meaningful.
Now on to fictional quotes that apply to every day life:
1. Friday Night Lights Pre Game Speech - MY HEART is FULL.
2. We are Marshall - Pre Game Speech at Cemetery - while based on a true story, I'm not 100% sure the quotes are true so I thought it best to include it here, Speech is about overcoming adversity and about HEART - lay your heart on the line.
3. Remember the Titans - Coach Boone Speech at Gettysburg about coming together no matter race or religion. Respect each other!
Happy New Year!
I can't believe it is already January 3rd, three days into 2010. I'm happy to say that 2009 ended quietly but very happy. I'm so thankful for my wonderful family and friends and happy to have a successful and rewarding job. One of my big goals / New Years resolution for 2009 was to focus on my health / weight loss. I'm still not at my "goal weight" but I definitely feel that I'm probably the healthiest I have ever been. I can happily say 2009 was a great year!
Looking forward to what 2010 will bring and it has already started off well with a quick trip to Philadelphia to watch KU basketball play (beat)Temple.
My New Years Resolutions this year will continue to focus on my health / weight loss and continue to strive to be consistent in those efforts.
I hope everyone else had as wonderful a 2009 and are looking forward to 2010!
Looking forward to what 2010 will bring and it has already started off well with a quick trip to Philadelphia to watch KU basketball play (beat)Temple.
My New Years Resolutions this year will continue to focus on my health / weight loss and continue to strive to be consistent in those efforts.
I hope everyone else had as wonderful a 2009 and are looking forward to 2010!
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